Memorandum

City of Lawrence

Planning & Development Services

TO:	David L. Corliss, City Manager
FROM:	Barry Walthall, Building Codes Manager
CC:	Scott McCullough, Planning & Development Services Director
Date:	June 19, 2012
RE:	Reciprocity Agreement with Johnson County Contractor Licensing

Section 5-1515(E) of the City Code allows for the issuance of reciprocal licenses to contractors licensed by other municipalities or states, provided that the other jurisdiction provides for similar action, the applicant furnishes proof of qualifications equal to the qualifications of similar Lawrence license holder, and all other administrative requirements are met, including work experience, proof of insurance, and payment of fees.  So far in the history of the licensing program, which began in July of 2005, few reciprocal licenses have been issued because the condition that other jurisdictions provide for similar action is rarely met.

The attached agreement, which was developed with the assistance of the City Attorney’s staff, would provide for reciprocity between Lawrence and Johnson County Contractor Licensing (JCCL).  Lawrence and Johnson County contractors that have been actively licensed since the inception of the respective licensing program will become eligible for reciprocal licensing.  Lawrence contractors have completed a minimum of 40 hours of continuing education, and Johnson County contractors a minimum of 72 hours, to remain eligible for participation in the program.  Staff believes that this combination of knowledge and longevity as successful contractors demonstrates a level of competence suitable to grant reciprocal licenses.  The agreement has been approved by JCCL, and would become effective July 1, 2012.

JCCL is an ideal partner for a reciprocity agreement because the programs have similar qualification, insurance, and continuing education requirements.  The primary difference in the programs is Lawrence’s requirement for work experience, which is addressed in Section 3 of the agreement which specifies applicants must demonstrate sufficient work experience in accordance with the administrative requirements of each licensing jurisdiction.

Requested Action:

Authorize the Mayor to execute a Reciprocity Agreement with Johnson County Contractor Licensing, allowing for the issuance of reciprocal licenses to contractors licensed by Johnson County Contractor Licensing providing all administrative requirements are fulfilled and fees paid; and allowing for Lawrence licensed contractors to be granted Johnson County licenses under the same conditions.