After a decent start in January, permit values took a big dive last month in North Battleford.
The February building permit report has been released and while the number of permits rose slightly to 11 - two more than the same month last year - the permit values were significantly down from $33,349,000 to $1,072,400.
Last year's February numbers saw a boost thanks to the $31 million "new institutional" permit for the aquatic centre and theatre at the Credit Union CUPlex. Unfortunately, there was nothing to report in that category for February 2012.
As well, commercial alterations dropped from five permits for $1,993,000 in February 2011 to one for $336,400 in February 2012.
Other categories saw one new dwelling permit issued in February 2012 for $270,000, one garage/carport for $20,000, two residential alterations for $41,500, one new industrial permit for $150,000, two institutional alterations for $236,500 and three demolition/removals for $18,000.
For the year to date, building permit values are significantly lower. While 16 permits were issued through February - the same as last year - the overall permit values through February 2012 were at $7,032,400, down from the $35,123,0000 for the same period in 2011.
Also showing a decrease so far in 2012 are new dwellings, with the one dwelling permit for $270,000 down from four for $1763,500 issued through Feb. 2011.
Building Inspector Jerry Wintonyk submitted the report.
