HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-01-13; City Council; 09; Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with True North Compliance Services for Building Official and Inspection ServicesCA Review CDS
Meeting Date: Jan. 13, 2026
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Geoff Patnoe, City Manager
Staff Contact: Mike Strong, Community Development Director
mike.strong@carlsbadca.gov, 442-339-2721
Subject: Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with True North
Compliance Services for Building Official and Inspection Services
Districts: All
Recommended Actions
Adopt a resolution approving Amendment No. 1 to the Professional Services Agreement with
True North Consulting Services for Building Official services in an amount not to exceed
$200,000 and amending the operating budget to appropriate $105,000 to the Community
Development Department (Exhibit 1).
Executive Summary
This is a request to increase the current contract amount with True North Compliance Services
to continue to provide temporary Building Official functions and services until the department
can fill the vacant Building Official position.
Finding a candidate to fill the vacant position has taken longer than expected and additional
funding is needed to ensure continuity of service while recruitment continues. Once the
position is filled, contract services for Building Official will no longer be required.
The action before the City Council is a request to increase the contract amount by $105,000, for
a not-to-exceed total fee of $200,000. Procurement of professional services that cost the city
more than $100,000 per agreement year requires the City Council’s approval under Carlsbad
Municipal Code Section 3.28.060(D)(5).
While funding for this request will come from the General Fund, it is expected that budgetary
savings will be accrued from the unused full-time salary allotted to the Building Official position.
It is anticipated that city staff would reconcile actual year-end employee expenses (salaries,
benefits, overtime) and other year-end costs against the adopted budget to offset impacts to
the General Fund.
Jan. 13, 2026 Item #9 Page 1 of 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 673F4921-EC0B-447F-AE67-58DE9D139D55
Explanation & Analysis
The Building Division in the Community Development Department consists of the Building
Official, one Senior Building Inspector, three Building Inspector II positions, one Senior Office
Specialist and three Building Technicians. Current staffing levels are designed to support the
Building Division’s typical workload. Hiring new staff quickly when there is a vacancy is critical
to maintain essential operations, but it has been challenging lately due to various
complications. Temporary staffing and/or consultant services mitigate the effects of
unexpected staff vacancies.
The city currently contracts with True North Compliance Services for temporary building official
and building inspection services. True North Compliance Services has extensive experience
providing Building Division services and their staff is familiar with the city’s processes,
procedures, and the local building code.
Outsourcing this service to the contractor has been necessary because every local building
department in the State of California is required to have a designated building official to
organize, manage and coordinate the enforcement of building codes.1 The contractor also gives
the city access to specialized technical expertise to ensure that new construction is
professionally reviewed for compliance with all state and local codes, including seismic,
accessibility, plumbing, mechanical, electrical and life safety provisions.
The city’s contract with True North Compliance Services was approved under the City
Manager’s authority on Aug. 14, 2025, after a request for proposals was posted and eight bids
were received and evaluated in July 2025. (Exhibit 2)
The scope of the current contract covers a wide range of building-related services, designed to
be accommodated and support any function of the Building Division. Contractor work is
authorized as needed by the city subject to funding and budget availability. Based on the
invoice totals for the existing contract, monthly billing was on average approximately $16,000.
Under the existing contract, the contractor is not obligated to continue work or services under
this contract or otherwise incur costs in excess of $95,000. Although it was anticipated that the
Building Official position would be filled by now, the position remains vacant and unfilled, and
staff anticipate the contractor will reach the estimated limit of the current contract by the end
of January.
Staff expect the demand for building services to remain at current levels for the remainder of
fiscal year 2025-26. As a result, the city must continue to rely upon contracted services at a
level higher than anticipated.
Staff are therefore requesting the City Council’s approval of a contract amendment to increase
the not-to-exceed limit by $105,000, resulting in a total not-to-exceed amount of $200,000 per
contract year. Under the proposed contract amendment, the contractor would only provide a
certified Building Official up to two and a half days per week to provide technical assistance in
building-related matters. If additional services are needed that are provided for under the
Agreement, beyond Building Official services, the City Manager has authority under Carlsbad
Municipal Code Section 3.28.040(C) to amend the contract to include those services, so long as
1 In accordance with the California Building Code, only a “Building Official” is delegated the specific authority to
make interpretations of building codes, adopt rules, and enforce guidelines to safeguard life, health and property.
Jan. 13, 2026 Item #9 Page 2 of 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 673F4921-EC0B-447F-AE67-58DE9D139D55
any applicable 45-day noticing requirements are complied with under Assembly Bill 339 (2025),
effective Jan. 1, 2026, and other applicable requirements under the Meyers-Milias-Brown Act
contained in Government Code Section 3500 et. seq.
An off-cycle budget appropriation of General Funds is needed to cover the remaining expenses
anticipated for fiscal year 2025-26 and amounts in the next four fiscal years would be
determined and budgeted each following fiscal year.
Fiscal Analysis
The fiscal impact of extending the contract for fiscal year 2025-26 would be $105,000, to be
funded by the General Fund. Budgetary savings will be accrued in the General Fund from the
unused full-time salaries allotted to the Building Division. It is anticipated that city staff would
reconcile actual year-end employee expenses (salaries, benefits, overtime) and other year-end
costs against the adopted budget to offset impacts to the General Fund.
Future allocations for the 2026-27 to 2029-30 fiscal years may fluctuate from year to year
depending on workload and staffing needs. Fiscal impacts in future years will be forecasted and
included in subsequent budgets.
Next Steps
With the City Council’s approval, city staff will execute the amendment with True North
Compliance Services Inc.
Environmental Evaluation
This action does not require environmental review because it does not constitute a project
within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act under California Public
Resources Code Section 21065 in that it has no potential to cause either a direct physical
change or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment.
Exhibits
1. City Council resolution
2. Aug. 14, 2025 professional services agreement
Jan. 13, 2026 Item #9 Page 3 of 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 673F4921-EC0B-447F-AE67-58DE9D139D55
Exhibit 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-006 .
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARLSBAD,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO THE PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH TRUE NORTH COMPLIANCE SERVICES FOR
BUILDING OFFICIAL SERVICES IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $200,000
AND AMENDING THE OPERATING BUDGET TO APPROPRIATE $105,000 TO
THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Carlsbad, California has determined that the City of
Carlsbad requires the services of outside consultants for building-related services; and
WHEREAS, on August 14, 2025, the city executed a professional services agreement with True
North Compliance Services as authorized by the City Manager, for an amount of $95,000 per contract
year; and
WHEREAS, the professional services agreement established an estimate of total cost and
establishes a maximum award amount, conditioned upon the availability of funds; and
WHEREAS, an additional $105,000 for building official and inspection services with True North
Compliance Services is needed on an annual basis to address current and future shifts in workload and
unscheduled vacancies; and
WHEREAS, only the City Council can authorize the procurement of services that will cost the city
more than $100,000 per agreement year, as is expected with this amended agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Carlsbad, California, as
follows:
1.That the above recitations are true and correct.
2.This action does not require environmental review because it does not constitute a
project within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act under California
Public Resources Code Section 21065 in that it has no potential to cause either a direct
physical change or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the
environment.
3.That Amendment No. 1 to the Agreement with True North Compliance Services Inc. for
Building Official services is hereby approved and the City Manager is hereby authorized
and directed to execute Amendment No. 1, subject to review and approval as to form
by the City Attorney’s Office. The City Manager maintains the authority for future
contract amendments under Carlsbad Municipal Code Section 3.28.040(C) subject to
Jan. 13, 2026 Item #9 Page 4 of 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 673F4921-EC0B-447F-AE67-58DE9D139D55
any applicable 45-day noticing requirements under Assembly Bill 339 (2025) and other
applicable requirements under the Meyers-Milias-Brown Act contained in Government
Code Section 3500 et. seq.
4.That the City Council amends the current FY 2026 Operating Budget and the City
Manager or designee is authorized to appropriate $105,000 from the General Fund to
the Community Development Department upon execution of Amendment No. 1 to the
Agreement with True North Compliance Services Inc. for Building Official services.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of
Carlsbad on the 13th day of January, 2026, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: Blackburn, Bhat-Patel, Acosta, Burkholder, Shin.
NAYS: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
ABSENT: None.
_____________________________________
KEITH BLACKBURN, Mayor
______________________________________
SHERRY FREISINGER, City Clerk
(SEAL)
Jan. 13, 2026 Item #9 Page 5 of 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 673F4921-EC0B-447F-AE67-58DE9D139D55
Page 1 City Attorney Approved Version 5/30/2025
AGREEMENT FOR AS-NEEDED BUILDING AND INSPECTION SERVICES
TRUE NORTH COMPLIANCE SERVICES, INC.
THIS AGREEMENT (“Agreement”) is made and entered into as of the _______ day of
_________________, 2025, by and between the City of Carlsbad, California, a municipal corporation
("City") and True North Compliance Services Inc., a California corporation, ("Contractor").
RECITALS
A.City requires the professional services of a consultant who is experienced in providing as-
needed building and inspection services.
B.Contractor has the necessary experience in providing professional services and advice
related to as-needed Building Official Services, Building Inspection Services, and CASp.
C.Contractor has submitted a proposal to City and has affirmed its willingness and ability to
perform such work.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of these recitals and the mutual covenants contained in this
Agreement, City and Contractor agree as follows:
1.SCOPE OF WORK
City retains Contractor to perform, and Contractor agrees to render, those services ("Services") that are
defined in attached Exhibit "A," which is incorporated by this reference in accordance with this
Agreement’s terms and conditions. The Contractor, including its employees, subcontractors, or agents,
shall not perform any services without the City’s prior written consent.
2.STANDARD OF PERFORMANCE
While performing the Services, Contractor will exercise the reasonable professional care and skill
customarily exercised by reputable members of Contractor's profession practicing in the Metropolitan
Southern California area and will use reasonable diligence and best judgment while exercising its
professional skill and expertise.
3.TERM
The term of this Agreement will be effective for a period of five (5) years from the date first above written.
4.TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE
Time is of the essence for each and every provision of this Agreement.
5.COMPENSATION
The total fee payable for the Services to be performed during the Agreement term shall not exceed
ninety-five thousand dollars ($95,000) per Agreement year. No extensions to this Agreement are
permitted, and no other compensation for the Services will be allowed. Payment terms are Net 30
unless otherwise provided in Exhibit “A” or agreed to in writing by the parties. City reserves the
right to withhold a ten percent (10%) retention until City has accepted the work and/or Services
specified in Exhibit "A."
Incremental payments, if applicable, should be made as outlined in attached Exhibit "A."
Docusign Envelope ID: 09A1EBEC-AACD-4A4D-AE69-73A3A69060B8
August
14th
Exhibit 2
Jan. 13, 2026 Item #9 Page 6 of 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 673F4921-EC0B-447F-AE67-58DE9D139D55
Page 2 City Attorney Approved Version 5/30/2025
6.STATUS OF CONTRACTOR
Contractor will perform the Services in Contractor's own way as an independent contractor and in pursuit
of Contractor's independent calling, and not as an employee of City. Contractor will be under the control
of City only as to the result to be accomplished but will consult with City as necessary. The persons used
by Contractor to provide services under this Agreement will not be considered employees of City for any
purposes.
The payment made to Contractor pursuant to this Agreement will be the full and complete compensation
to which Contractor is entitled. City will not make any federal or state tax withholdings on behalf of
Contractor or its agents, employees or subcontractors. City will not be required to pay any workers'
compensation insurance or unemployment contributions on behalf of Contractor or its employees or
subcontractors. Contractor agrees to indemnify City within thirty (30) days for any tax, retirement
contribution, social security, overtime payment, unemployment payment or workers' compensation
payment which City may be required to make on behalf of Contractor or any agent, employee, or
subcontractor of Contractor for work done under this Agreement. At City’s election, City may deduct the
indemnification amount from any balance owing to Contractor.
7.SUBCONTRACTING
Contractor will not subcontract any portion of the Services without prior written approval of City. If
Contractor subcontracts any of the Services, Contractor will be fully responsible to City for the acts and
omissions of Contractor's subcontractor and of the persons either directly or indirectly employed by the
subcontractor, as Contractor is for the acts and omissions of persons directly employed by Contractor.
Nothing contained in this Agreement will create any contractual relationship between any subcontractor
of Contractor and City. Contractor will be responsible for payment of subcontractors. Contractor will bind
every subcontractor and every subcontractor of a subcontractor by the terms of this Agreement
applicable to Contractor's work unless specifically noted to the contrary in the subcontract and approved
in writing by City.
8.OTHER CONTRACTORS
City reserves the right to employ other Contractors in connection with the Services.
9.INDEMNIFICATION
Contractor agrees to defend (with counsel approved by City), indemnify, and hold harmless the City and
its officers, elected and appointed officials, employees and volunteers from and against all claims,
damages, losses and expenses including attorneys fees arising out of the performance of the work
described in this Agreement caused by any negligence, recklessness, or willful misconduct of Contractor,
any subcontractor, anyone directly or indirectly employed by any of them or anyone for whose acts any
of them may be liable.
If Contractor’s obligation to defend, indemnify, and/or hold harmless arises out of Contractor’s
performance as a “design professional” (as that term is defined under California Civil Code Section
2782.8), then, and only to the extent required by California Civil Code Section 2782.8, which is fully
incorporated in this Agreement, Contractor’s indemnification obligation shall be limited to claims that
arise out of, pertain to, or relate to the negligence, recklessness, or willful misconduct of Contractor, and,
upon Contractor obtaining a final adjudication by a court of competent jurisdiction. Contractor’s liability
for such claim, including the cost to defend, shall not exceed Contractor’s proportionate percentage of
fault.
Docusign Envelope ID: 09A1EBEC-AACD-4A4D-AE69-73A3A69060B8
Jan. 13, 2026 Item #9 Page 7 of 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 673F4921-EC0B-447F-AE67-58DE9D139D55
Page 3 City Attorney Approved Version 5/30/2025
The parties expressly agree that any payment, attorneys fee, costs or expense City incurs or makes to or
on behalf of an injured employee under City’s self-administered workers’ compensation program is
included as a loss, expense or cost for the purposes of this section, and that this section will survive the
expiration or early termination of this Agreement.
10.INSURANCE
Contractor will obtain and maintain for the duration of the Agreement and any and all amendments,
insurance against claims for injuries to persons or damage to property which may arise out of or in
connection with performance of the services by Contractor or Contractor’s agents, representatives,
employees or subcontractors. The insurance will be obtained from an insurance carrier admitted and
authorized to do business in the State of California. The insurance carrier is required to have a current
Best's Key Rating of not less than "A-:VII"; OR with a surplus line insurer on the State of California’s List of
Approved Surplus Line Insurers (LASLI) with a rating in the latest Best’s Key Rating Guide of at least “A:X”;
OR an alien non-admitted insurer listed by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)
latest quarterly listings report.
10.1 Coverages and Limits. Contractor will maintain the types of coverages and minimum limits
indicated below, unless Risk Manager or City Manager approves a lower amount. These minimum amounts of coverage will not constitute any limitations or cap on Contractor's indemnification obligations under this Agreement. City, its officers, agents and employees make no representation that the limits of the insurance specified to be carried by Contractor pursuant to this Agreement are adequate to protect
Contractor. If Contractor believes that any required insurance coverage is inadequate, Contractor will obtain such additional insurance coverage, as Contractor deems adequate, at Contractor's sole expense. The full limits available to the named insured shall also be available and applicable to City as an additional insured.
10.1.1 Commercial General Liability (CGL) Insurance. Insurance written on an “occurrence” basis,
including personal and advertising injury, with limits no less than $2,000,000 per occurrence. If a general
aggregate limit applies, either the general aggregate limit shall apply separately to this project/location
or the general aggregate limit shall be twice the required occurrence limit.
10.1.2 Automobile Liability. (if the use of an automobile is involved for Contractor's work for
City). $2,000,000 combined single-limit per accident for bodily injury and property damage.
10.1.3 Workers' Compensation and Employer's Liability. Workers' Compensation limits as
required by the California Labor Code. Workers' Compensation will not be required if Contractor has no
employees and provides, to City's satisfaction, a declaration stating this.
10.1.4 Professional Liability. Errors and omissions liability appropriate to Contractor’s profession
with limits of not less than $1,000,000 per claim. Coverage must be maintained for a period of five years
following the date of completion of the work.
10.2 Additional Provisions. Contractor will ensure that the policies of insurance required under this
Agreement contain, or are endorsed to contain, the following provisions:
10.2.1 City will be named as an additional insured on Commercial General Liability which shall
provide primary coverage to City.
Docusign Envelope ID: 09A1EBEC-AACD-4A4D-AE69-73A3A69060B8
Jan. 13, 2026 Item #9 Page 8 of 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 673F4921-EC0B-447F-AE67-58DE9D139D55
Page 4 City Attorney Approved Version 5/30/2025
10.2.2 Contractor will obtain occurrence coverage, excluding Professional Liability, which will be
written as claims-made coverage.
10.2.3 If Contractor maintains higher limits than the minimums shown above, City requires and
will be entitled to coverage for the higher limits maintained by Contractor. Any available insurance
proceeds in excess of the specified minimum limits of insurance and coverage will be available to City.
10.2.4 This insurance will be in force during the life of the Agreement and any extensions of it
and will not be canceled without thirty (30) days prior written notice to City sent by certified mail pursuant
to the Notice provisions of this Agreement.
10.3 Providing Certificates of Insurance and Endorsements. Prior to City's execution of this Agreement,
Contractor will furnish certificates of insurance and endorsements to City.
10.4 Failure to Maintain Coverage. If Contractor fails to maintain any of these insurance coverages,
then City will have the option to declare Contractor in breach, or may purchase replacement insurance or
pay the premiums that are due on existing policies in order to maintain the required coverages. Contractor
is responsible for any payments made by City to obtain or maintain insurance and City may collect these
payments from Contractor or deduct the amount paid from any sums due Contractor under this
Agreement.
10.5 Submission of Insurance Policies. City reserves the right to require, at any time, complete and
certified copies of any or all required insurance policies and endorsements.
11.BUSINESS LICENSE
Contractor will obtain and maintain a City of Carlsbad Business License for the term of the Agreement, as
may be amended from time-to-time.
12.ACCOUNTING RECORDS
Contractor will maintain complete and accurate records with respect to costs incurred under this
Agreement. All records will be clearly identifiable. Contractor will allow a representative of City during
normal business hours to examine, audit, and make transcripts or copies of records and any other
documents created pursuant to this Agreement. Contractor will allow inspection of all work, data,
documents, proceedings, and activities related to the Agreement for a period of four (4) years from the
date of final payment under this Agreement.
13.OWNERSHIP OF DOCUMENTS
All work product produced by Contractor or its agents, employees, and subcontractors pursuant to this
Agreement is the property of City. In the event this Agreement is terminated, all work product produced
by Contractor or its agents, employees and subcontractors pursuant to this Agreement will be delivered
at once to City. Contractor will have the right to make one (1) copy of the work product for Contractor’s
records.
14.COPYRIGHTS
Contractor agrees that all copyrights that arise from the services will be vested in City and Contractor
relinquishes all claims to the copyrights in favor of City.
Docusign Envelope ID: 09A1EBEC-AACD-4A4D-AE69-73A3A69060B8
Jan. 13, 2026 Item #9 Page 9 of 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 673F4921-EC0B-447F-AE67-58DE9D139D55
Page 5 City Attorney Approved Version 5/30/2025
15.NOTICES
The name of the persons who are authorized to give written notice or to receive written notice on behalf
of City and on behalf of Contractor under this Agreement are:
For City: For Contractor:
Name Laureen Ryan Name Isam Hasenin
Title Senior Management Analyst Title President and CEO
Dept Community Development Address 3355 E. Spring Street, #302
CITY OF CARLSBAD Long Beach, CA 90806
Address 1635 Faraday Avenue Phone (858) 260-0495
Carlsbad, CA 92008 Email isam@tncservices.com
Phone (442) 339-2615
Each party will notify the other immediately of any changes of address that would require any notice or
delivery to be directed to another address.
16.CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Contractor shall file a Conflict of Interest Statement with the City Clerk in accordance with the
requirements of the City of Carlsbad Conflict of Interest Code. Contractor shall report investments or
interests as required in the City of Carlsbad Conflict of Interest Code.
Yes ☐ No ☒
If yes, list the contact information below for all individuals required to file:
Name Email Phone Number
17.GENERAL COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS
Contractor will keep fully informed of federal, state and local laws and ordinances and regulations which
in any manner affect those employed by Contractor, or in any way affect the performance of the Services
by Contractor. Contractor will at all times observe and comply with these laws, ordinances, and
regulations and will be responsible for the compliance of Contractor's services with all applicable laws,
ordinances and regulations.
Contractor will be aware of the requirements of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 and will
comply with those requirements, including, but not limited to, verifying the eligibility for employment of
all agents, employees, subcontractors and consultants whose services are required by this Agreement.
18.CALIFORNIA AIR RESOURCES BOARD (CARB) ADVANCED CLEAN FLEETS REGULATIONS
Contractor’s vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating greater than 8,500 lbs. and light-duty package
delivery vehicles operated in California may be subject to the California Air Resources Board (CARB)
Advanced Clean Fleets regulations. Such vehicles may therefore be subject to requirements to reduce
Docusign Envelope ID: 09A1EBEC-AACD-4A4D-AE69-73A3A69060B8
Jan. 13, 2026 Item #9 Page 10 of 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 673F4921-EC0B-447F-AE67-58DE9D139D55
City Attorney Approved Version 5/30/2025
Page 6
emissions of air pollutants. For more information, please visit the CARB Advanced Clean Fleets webpage
at https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/advanced-clean-fleets.
19.DISCRIMINATION, HARASSMENT, AND RETALIATIONPROHIBITED
Contractor will comply with all applicable local, state and federal laws and regulations prohibiting
discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.
20.DISPUTE RESOLUTION
If a dispute should arise regarding the performance of the Services the following procedure will be used
to resolve any questions of fact or interpretation not otherwise settled by agreement between the parties.
Representatives of Contractor or City will reduce such questions, and their respective views, to writing. A
copy of such documented dispute will be forwarded to both parties involved along with recommended
methods of resolution, which would be of benefit to both parties. The representative receiving the letter
will reply to the letter along with a recommended method of resolution within ten (10) business days. If
the resolution thus obtained is unsatisfactory to the aggrieved party, a letter outlining the disputes will
be forwarded to the City Manager. The City Manager will consider the facts and solutions recommended
by each party and may then opt to direct a solution to the problem. In such cases, the action of the City
Manager will be binding upon the parties involved, although nothing in this procedure will prohibit the
parties from seeking remedies available to them at law.
21.TERMINATION
In the event of Contractor's failure to prosecute, deliver, or perform the Services, City may terminate this
Agreement for nonperformance by notifying Contractor by certified mail of the termination. If City decides
to abandon or indefinitely postpone the work or services contemplated by this Agreement, City may
terminate this Agreement upon written notice to Contractor. Upon notification of termination, Contractor
has five (5) business days to deliver any documents owned by City and all work in progress to City address
contained in this Agreement. City will make a determination of fact based upon the work product
delivered to City and of the percentage of work that Contractor has performed which is usable and of
worth to City in having the Agreement completed. Based upon that finding City will determine the final
payment of the Agreement.
City may terminate this Agreement by tendering thirty (30) days written notice to Contractor. Contractor
may terminate this Agreement by tendering thirty (30) days written notice to City. In the event of
termination of this Agreement by either party and upon request of City, Contractor will assemble the work
product and put it in order for proper filing and closing and deliver it to City. Contractor will be paid for
work performed to the termination date; however, the total will not exceed the lump sum fee payable
under this Agreement. City will make the final determination as to the portions of tasks completed and
the compensation to be made.
22.COVENANTS AGAINST CONTINGENT FEES
Contractor warrants that Contractor has not employed or retained any company or person, other than a
bona fide employee working for Contractor, to solicit or secure this Agreement, and that Contractor has
not paid or agreed to pay any company or person, other than a bona fide employee, any fee, commission,
percentage, brokerage fee, gift, or any other consideration contingent upon, or resulting from, the award
or making of this Agreement. For breach or violation of this warranty, City will have the right to annul this
Agreement without liability, or, in its discretion, to deduct from the Agreement price or consideration, or
otherwise recover, the full amount of the fee, commission, percentage, brokerage fees, gift, or contingent
fee.
Docusign Envelope ID: 09A1EBEC-AACD-4A4D-AE69-73A3A69060B8
Jan. 13, 2026 Item #9 Page 11 of 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 673F4921-EC0B-447F-AE67-58DE9D139D55
City Attorney Approved Version 5/30/2025
Page 7
23.CLAIMS AND LAWSUITS
By signing this Agreement, Contractor agrees that any Agreement claim submitted to City must be
asserted as part of the Agreement process as set forth in this Agreement and not in anticipation of
litigation or in conjunction with litigation. Contractor acknowledges that if a false claim is submitted to
City, it may be considered fraud and Contractor may be subject to criminal prosecution. Contractor
acknowledges that California Government Code Sections 12650 et seq., the False Claims Act applies to
this Agreement and, provides for civil penalties where a person knowingly submits a false claim to a public
entity. These provisions include false claims made with deliberate ignorance of the false information or in
reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of information. If City seeks to recover penalties pursuant to the
False Claims Act, it is entitled to recover its litigation costs, including attorneys fees. Contractor
acknowledges that the filing of a false claim may subject Contractor to an administrative debarment
proceeding as the result of which Contractor may be prevented to act as a Contractor on any public work
or improvement for a period of up to five (5) years. Contractor acknowledges debarment by another
jurisdiction is grounds for City to terminate this Agreement.
24.JURISDICTION AND VENUE
This Agreement shall be interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of California without regard
to, or application of, choice of law rules or principles. Any action at law or in equity brought by either of
the parties for the purpose of enforcing a right or rights provided for by this Agreement will be tried in a
court of competent jurisdiction in the County of San Diego, State of California, and the parties waive all
provisions of law providing for a change of venue in these proceedings to any other county.
25.SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS
It is mutually understood and agreed that this Agreement will be binding upon City and Contractor and
their respective successors. Neither this Agreement nor any part of it nor any monies due or to become
due under it may be assigned by Contractor without the prior consent of City, which shall not be
unreasonably withheld.
26.THIRD PARTY RIGHTS
Nothing in this Agreement should be construed to give any rights or benefits to any party other than City
and Contractor.
27.ENTIRE AGREEMENT
This Agreement, together with any other written document referred to or contemplated by it, along
with the purchase order for this Agreement and its provisions, embody the entire Agreement and
understanding between the parties relating to the subject matter of it. In case of conflict, the terms of
the Agreement supersede the purchase order. Neither this Agreement nor any of its provisions may be
amended, modified, waived or discharged except in a writing signed by both parties. This Agreement
may be executed in counterparts.
Docusign Envelope ID: 09A1EBEC-AACD-4A4D-AE69-73A3A69060B8
Jan. 13, 2026 Item #9 Page 12 of 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 673F4921-EC0B-447F-AE67-58DE9D139D55
City Attorney Approved Version 5/30/2025
Page 8
28.AUTHORITY
The individuals executing this Agreement and the instruments referenced in it on behalf of Contractor
each represent and warrant that they have the legal power, right and actual authority to bind Contractor
to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
Executed by Contractor this________ day of __________________, 2025.
TRUE NORTH COMPLIANCE SERVICES, INC., a
California corporation
CITY OF CARLSBAD, a municipal corporation of
the State of California
By: By:
(sign here) Sheila Cobian
Assistant City Manager
Isam Hasenin – CEO
(print name/title)
ATTEST:
By: SHERRY FREISINGER, City Clerk
(sign here) By:
Amar Isam Hasenin - CFO
Morgen Fry
Assistant City Clerk
(print name/title)
If required by City, proper notarial acknowledgment of execution by contractor must be attached. If a
corporation, Agreement must be signed by one corporate officer from each of the following two groups.
Group A Group B
Chairman, Secretary,
President, or Assistant Secretary,
Vice-President CFO or Assistant Treasurer
Otherwise, the corporation must attach a resolution certified by the secretary or assistant secretary under corporate seal empowering the officer(s) signing to bind the corporation.
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
CINDIE K. McMAHON, City Attorney
BY: _____________________________ C. Dalton SorichAssistant City Attorney
August
Docusign Envelope ID: 09A1EBEC-AACD-4A4D-AE69-73A3A69060B8
13
Jan. 13, 2026 Item #9 Page 13 of 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 673F4921-EC0B-447F-AE67-58DE9D139D55
City Attorney Approved Version 5/30/2025
Page 9
EXHIBIT ‘A’
Scope of Services
We offer a full range of development review & inspection services including Building & Safety services
ranging from plan review to inspection and permit technician services and other related services. We have
the depth and breadth of resources to perform any and all of the following services:
a. Building Official Services: True North Compliance will provide a qualified certified and experienced
Building Official. The individual will report to the Community Development Director and provide
supervision and direction to the Building & Safety Division staff, code administration and
interpretations, develop policies and ordinances, interface with customers, City staff and
elected officials, and perform related administrative functions as assigned.
b. Inspection Services: True North Compliance has the capabilities to provide inspection and
reinspection for compliance with all applicable codes, standards and regulations including:
California Building Code; California Residential Code; California Plumbing Code; California
Mechanical Code; California Electrical Code; California Fire Code; California Energy Code;
California Green Building Standards Code; California Disabled Access Regulations; California
Title 25, Mobile Home Parks, as locally adopted and amended. Our inspection staff is certified
by the International Code Council or other appropriate entities in accordance with AB717 and
possess many years of building code inspection experience with a municipality or a private
municipal consultant. Our inspectors have extensive construction and trade experience in
addition to their Code knowledge, allowing for a practical approach to applying Code provisions
during the inspection process.
c. Counter & Administrative Services: True North Compliance has the capabilities to provide counter
and administrative services as needed by the city. Our staff will provide technical support and
application of City policies, methods and practices to support professional engineering, plan
review, planning, and building and safety staff. Our Counter Technician has knowledge of
construction terms and operations, development and building codes required to process plans
and permits along with government functions and processes. Review permit application for
completeness, perform fee calculations, route plans, verify approvals and conditions and issue
permits. Use the City’s permitting system to file permit applications, calculate fees, research
zoning and planning requirements, enter approvals and route plans to appropriate divisions and
departments. Maintain communications with applicants, interested parties, property owners,
homeowner associations, various governmental agencies, and other City departments.
Respond to inquiries about projects from residents and applicants.
d. Code Enforcement Services: True North Compliance has the capabilities to provide Code
Enforcement and Housing services and assist the City of Carlsbad in the enforcement of
applicable Zoning codes, Building codes, Housing codes, public nuisance codes and State health
& safety codes. Our Code Enforcement Officers have extensive experience and capabilities in
the following areas: Code enforcement program review and analysis; Code enforcement
inspections; Preparing administrative remedies including administrative citations; Conducting
Docusign Envelope ID: 09A1EBEC-AACD-4A4D-AE69-73A3A69060B8
Jan. 13, 2026 Item #9 Page 14 of 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 673F4921-EC0B-447F-AE67-58DE9D139D55
City Attorney Approved Version 5/30/2025
Page 10
administrative hearings; Preparing program documentation and staff reports as well as
committee or Council presentations; Testifying on behalf of clients in criminal court; License
and permit application review and processing; Coordination of activities with multiple
departments including Building, Planning, Community Development, Police and City Attorney;
Providing information on municipal regulations to property owners, residents, businesses, the
general public, as well as to other departments and divisions.
e. Special Projects- Our management team and staff can participate in a variety of special projects, as
needed. These projects may include, but not limited to, analysis of processes and procedures;
Business process re-engineering, fee studies; Review and recommendations of permitting
software; Preparation of engineered plan details; Conducting training on a variety of code-
related topics; Interim or permanent Building Official duties; Preparation of
documents/handouts; Public presentation to community groups, City Committees or Council.
Customer Service Commitment
Our singular focus on our motto “personal attentive service and excellence in the delivery of our services”
allowed us to become the go-to provider for most of our clients. The common denominator for our success
serving our clients is the absolute focus on delivering high quality, responsive and timely services. We will
partner with city staff, applicants and designers to come up with practical common-sense solutions to
difficult code compliance challenges. Our team is available to handle questions and issues raised by City staff
and/or the applicants throughout the day. Our managers are available around the clock to handle whatever
needs our clients might have. We keep an open line of communications with staff and applicants to
streamline and expedite the review and approval of projects being reviewed. Our customer service
commitment includes the following elements:
1.Application of the code in a reasonable practical yet safe manner and
understanding and apply the spirit and intent of the code whenever
needed.
2.Open lines of communication with the Community Development
Assistant Director and other city managers and staff to ensure an
efficient and high level of customer service.
3.Our designated building official will use a practical common-sense
approach to code compliance and look for creative ways to resolve
field inspection challenges.
4.Office hours: our staff are available Monday through Friday from
8:00 am- 5:00 pm to respond to phone calls and email inquiries.
5.We respond to phone calls and emails no later than the next
business day and in most cases on the same business day.
6.Our staff is available, during regular business hours, to discuss and
clarify plan check issues with applicants, designers, owners and
consultants. Resolution of code issues may be performed by
telephone, or meetings, prior to resubmitting corrected plans and
documents.
Docusign Envelope ID: 09A1EBEC-AACD-4A4D-AE69-73A3A69060B8
Jan. 13, 2026 Item #9 Page 15 of 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 673F4921-EC0B-447F-AE67-58DE9D139D55
City Attorney Approved Version 5/30/2025
Page 11
Organization and Team Members
Principal/Project Leader
For this contract, Isam Hasenin, P.E., C.B.O., will serve as Principal/Team Lead and will serve as the
main point of contact of True North Compliance Services, Inc. staff and the City of Carlsbad. Isam
will ensure that services are delivered in accordance with the Scope of Services established by the
City and the Consultant Services Agreement.
Isam will maintain an open line of communications with City of Carlsbad’s Community
Development Assistant Director and other managers as well as project applicants and design teams.
He will provide oversight and management of all True North’s staff assigned to City projects.
Isam will be available for meetings at the city office. He will be available to discuss complex code
compliance/interpretation questions or process/procedural issues with the Building Official and
design team members as the needs arise.
Isam has 30 years of experience in code enforcement and building department administration and
technical review and inspections. Mr. Hasenin has the perfect mix of public sector experience and
private sector experience managing both small and large operations. He has deep understanding
and appreciation for the challenges and demands of local municipalities in meeting the needs and
expectations of their citizens and applicants for building permits.
Project Manager/Director of Operations
Amar Hasenin, Director of Operations for True North, will serve as the day-to-day operational and
technical manager for the City of Carlsbad projects. He will assign and monitor the workload of
staff, quality of reviews and timeliness of the review process. He will be available to discuss code
compliance/interpretation questions or process/procedural issues with our designated Building
Official and city staff as the needs arise. He will provide technical and administrative training and
participate in any special assignments or meetings at City manager’s direction. Amar has over 10
years of experience as a design engineer, plan check engineer, and regional manager in Southern
California. He served as the Bay Area Regional Manager for a third-party building department
services provider prior to joining True North. He is a highly competent plan review engineer and
technical expert in the application of the California Codes and a certified Plans Examiner and
Inspector by ICC.
Designated Building Official
Jesse Sanchez will serve as the Designated Building Official. Jesse has over 20 years of experience in
all aspects of building & Safety operations from the front counter to plan review, inspections, code
enforcement and building official duties. Jesse served as the building official for multiple cities in
Southern California. He excels at providing practical solutions to code compliance challenges. Jesse
has a calm demeanor and works very well with other city managers, his staff and the public. Jesse
will work at City Hall two days a week and provide remote support to the Building & Safety team for
the rest of the week.
Docusign Envelope ID: 09A1EBEC-AACD-4A4D-AE69-73A3A69060B8
Jan. 13, 2026 Item #9 Page 16 of 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 673F4921-EC0B-447F-AE67-58DE9D139D55
City Attorney Approved Version 5/30/2025
Page 12
Methodology & Work Approach
Our established internal procedures and policies will ensure that we provide the City of Carlsbad with the
highest quality, accurate, timely, and responsive service. Our goal is to provide consistent and uniform
service, eliminate errors and confusion and ensure compliance with the City’s standards, policies,
interpretations, and procedures. To that end, we have the following established procedures for each of the
services we offer:
Building Inspection Services
True North Compliance Services, Inc. is pleased to offer excellent on-call Building Inspection Services
to the City of Carlsbad. Our inspectors have extensive construction and trade experience in addition
to their Code knowledge, allowing for a practical approach to applying Code provisions during the
inspection process. Similar to our Plan Review process, our inspectors employ the following
procedures to maximize project success. These procedures may be adjusted to better accommodate
your jurisdiction.
1.Become familiar with the inspection style and requirements of the City of Carlsbad.
2.Provide inspection services and assure that construction complies with plans and is in
compliance with the most recently adopted codes, policies, and procedures.3.Perform inspections on construction projects to verify compliance with City of Carlsbad
Municipal Code and State codes and regulations: California Building Code, Residential Code,
Plumbing Code, Mechanical Code, Electrical Code, Fire Code, Energy Code, Green Building
Standards Code, Disabled Access Regulations, and Title 25; Mobile Home Parks regulations;
State Water Resource Control Board regulations related to storm water pollution prevention;
Sound Transmission Control regulations; and, locally adopted building ordinances and
amendments thereof.4.Inspect for compliance with applicable conditions of approval set forth by the City's Carlsbad
Department, Planning Commission, and/or City Council.
5.Inspectors will possess and maintain necessary certifications required to perform
inspections.6.Be equipped with all necessary tools needed to perform inspections, including a complete
set of current code books.
7.Assist in the coordination of job site conferences with technical consultants, engineers,
architects, representatives of the owner, equipment manufacturers, and subcontractors to
review project requirements, and clarify or resolving any questions or problems prior to
commencing work.8.Prepare inspection notices of noncompliance on incorrect construction methods or material
found during inspection; confer with contractor or representative regarding construction
methods and procedures as they relate to compliance with plans and specifications.9.Maintain a record of non-complying items and follow up to achieve resolution of such items.
Record all significant construction-related activities and events such as work completed
to provide a chronological and factual history of inspection on assigned construction
projects.
10.Engage with Building & Safety Division staff to understand the City’s permitting process,
forms, policies, and clients.
11.Adapt to the City’s needs to allow for easy integration into the day-to-day inspection
operations.
12.Communicate daily with the City’s Principals Building Inspector for assignments and to
Docusign Envelope ID: 09A1EBEC-AACD-4A4D-AE69-73A3A69060B8
Jan. 13, 2026 Item #9 Page 17 of 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 673F4921-EC0B-447F-AE67-58DE9D139D55
City Attorney Approved Version 5/30/2025
Page 13
identify potential issues.
13.Coordinate with various City and County agencies and departments and other governmental
agencies providing services, and/or having jurisdiction over any aspect of a development
project.
14.Maintain contact while in the field to answer questions, reschedule inspections, and support
City staff.15.Serve as a resource and provide information on City regulations to property owners,
residents, businesses, the general public and other City departments.
16.Build a rapport with frequent contractors and teams on continuing projects.
17.Update the City’s permit tracking software as necessary, including transferring all applicable
field notes.18.Perform and/or attend on-site and in-office preconstruction meetings as required.
19.Communicate and/or meet with applicants, contractors, engineers, architects, etc., as
necessary to assist with corrections and general project questions.
Permit Processing Services
True North Compliance Services, Inc. believes that the permit technician position is one of the toughest
positions in the Building & Safety Division. Being at the counter all day long handling customer contacts,
questions and issues is challenging, especially as we experience the high volume of work and high customer
traffic at the public counter. That’s why we believe it takes a certain type of personality to be successful at the
position. It’s someone who is pleasant, calm, patient, has excellent interpersonal skills and ability to use
automation systems. We are pleased to offer staff who meet these criteria and qualifications. More specifically,
the permit technician will:
1.Enter permit data into the automated database.
2.Research, compile and prepare various limited reports and presentation graphics.
3.Assist the general public at the front counter or by phone regarding
building, planning and engineering permit requirements, plan check fees,
plan check filing procedures and processing, and permit status.
4.Research information for the public.5.Accept permit applications and collect permit fees.
6.Review and evaluate plans for completeness and for conformance with
ordinances and department standards, policies and guidelines.
7.Review plans for conditions of prior approval.8.Route plans to other city departments for review.9.Approve minor permits.
10.Research and respond to public inquiries.
11.Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, City
employees and the public using principles of good customer service.12.Perform related duties as assigned.13.Utilize City electronic and paper files to research previous and/or related permits.14.Review permit application for completeness, perform fee calculations,
route plans, verify approvals and conditions and issue permits.
15.Provide excellent service to all customers from a homeowner to
large developers and designers.
16.Have excellent interpersonal skills, calm demeanor, patience and be a good listener.
Docusign Envelope ID: 09A1EBEC-AACD-4A4D-AE69-73A3A69060B8
Jan. 13, 2026 Item #9 Page 18 of 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 673F4921-EC0B-447F-AE67-58DE9D139D55
City Attorney Approved Version 5/30/2025
Page 14
Quality Control Program
True North Compliance’s core values in delivering municipal services are: Ethics, Transparency, Collaboration,
Empathy, Customer-Centric service, Communications, and Fiscal Prudence. High quality service,
professionalism and excellence in the delivery of municipal services are at the core of what True North
Compliance stands for. We share the City’s commitment to delivering responsive and timely service without
compromising the quality of the service. To that end, we developed and implemented a rigorous internal
quality control and assurance program for all of our services. Here are the major components of our quality
control program:
Inspection Services
Similar to our plan check quality control program, we have a rigorous internal quality control and
assurance program for our inspection services. Main elements of our program include:
1.Rigorous hiring program to ensure that we only hire highly competent
professional and friendly inspectors who believe in True North’s core
values and guiding principles.
2.Thorough on-boarding and training program for our team.
3.On-going technical training on the latest codes, interpretations,
technology and construction methods and techniques.4.Regular staff meetings to communicate policies and procedures and provide directions.
5.Regular feedback on staff performance.
6.Announced and un-announced audits of inspectors by our Chief of Inspections.
7.Regular feedback meetings with City’s Building Official and staff to
obtain feedback and input on our staff’s performance.8.Periodic calls to contractors to seek feedback on the performance of our inspection staff.
9.Regular meetings with our inspectors to evaluate performance, offer
critique and corrective actions if necessary.
Docusign Envelope ID: 09A1EBEC-AACD-4A4D-AE69-73A3A69060B8
Jan. 13, 2026 Item #9 Page 19 of 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 673F4921-EC0B-447F-AE67-58DE9D139D55
City Attorney Approved Version 5/30/2025
Page 15
Fee Schedule
True North Compliance Services is pleased to propose the following competitive fees for the services listed.
Additional services not listed below may be negotiated.
Our hourly rates are all-inclusive and include salaries, overhead, benefits, PTO, etc.
Hourly Rates for Services
-Overtime for on-site staffing will be charged at 140% of the rates above.
-Mileage for tasks related to requested scope such as inspections or site visits will be
charged at the current IRS mileage rate measured from City Hall.
-Inspections outside of the City’s business hours will be charged at 140% of rates above with a 3-
hour minimum.
Position Hourly Rate
Interim Certified Building Official $145.00
Building/Housing Inspector $95.00
Senior Building/Housing Inspector $110.00
CASp Plan Reviewer/Inspector $125.00
Permit Technician I 75.00
Permit Technician II $85.00
Administrative Assistant $65.00
Docusign Envelope ID: 09A1EBEC-AACD-4A4D-AE69-73A3A69060B8
Jan. 13, 2026 Item #9 Page 20 of 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 673F4921-EC0B-447F-AE67-58DE9D139D55