Agenda Item Wording:
title
Building Advisory Committee member appointment - Request to appoint Matt Seals to the Building Advisory Committee for a 2-year term.
body
Agenda Date: 09/08/2026
Prepared by:
Jason Huckleberry, Engineering & Building Director, Jason.huckleberry@visalia.gov, (559)713-4495
Department Recommendation:
Staff recommends that City Council appoint Matt Seals to the first term on the Building Advisory Committee with the 2-year term ending in June 30, 2028.
Summary:
Staff recently received one application from Matt Seals to fill a vacancy on the Building Advisory Committee (BAC). Matt Seals is a licensed general contractor with a degree from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. He is the owner of a local commercial construction company and was previously an active member of the BAC for many years. He is also an active member of the VUSD Facilities Advisory Committee and the Visalia Economic Development Corporation. He brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the committee and is highly recommended by staff.
Background Discussion:
The Building Advisory Committee (BAC) was reestablished by Council at the meeting held on August 17th, 2026 as a 5-member body. Additionally, Council appointed three members to the BAC at the same meeting including, BJ Perch (1st 3-year term), Martin Hale (1st 3-year term), and a member represented by the Building Industry Association of Tulare & Kings County (permanent member). With approval to appoint Mr. Seals to a two-year term, the BAC will have one remaining vacancy (2-year term).
The establishment of the BAC is intended to enable the City’s Building Division to provide the important services outlined below:
• Provide regular interaction and outreach with the building community and other interested parties
• Provide an avenue for collaboration and public/private sector education regarding Building Code issues/changes and interpretations
• Provide a forum to discuss new industry technologies and suggestions to streamline the permitting/plan review processes
• Include a Board of Appeals as prescribed in the California Building Code. Four members (three regular members and one alternate) of the BAC would serve on the City’s Board of Appeals. The BAC would select from among their members who will serve on the Board of Appeals.
Except for required qualifications and the recommendation process (as outlined above), the BAC will follow the guidelines within the City of Visalia’s Committees & Commissions Handbook. The Committee is added to the official City of Visalia Local Appointment List in compliance with the requirements of the Maddy Act, Government Code 54970. A mission statement will be drafted by the BAC.
Fiscal Impact including annual maintenance and operating costs:
No cost to City other than staff time that is devoted by the Director and/or Building Official to facilitate the BAC meetings as a staff representative.
Prior Council Action:
August 17, 2026 - Council reestablished the BAC and appointed three members.
Alternatives: Decline the appointment and maintain two vacancies on the committee.
Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):
recommendation
I move to appoint Matt Seals to the Building Advisory Committee for a two-year term as recommended by staff.
Environmental Assessment Status: Not applicable
CEQA Review: Not applicable
Deadline for Action: No deadline is established for this action
Attachments: 1. Member application
Strategic Goal: Indicates which City Strategic Goal(s) this item supports. Check all that apply.
|
☐ Economic Vitality |
☒  Organizational Excellence |
☐ Fiscal Strength |
☐  Infrastructure & Growth |
☐  Quality of Life |