Albemarle County Appoints New Building Official

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Albemarle County Appoints New Building Official

Albemarle County has appointed David Duffy as the County’s Building Official. The appointment fills a key vacancy in the Community Development Department as the County works to address staffing needs and implement recommendations from its recent organizational assessment. The Building Official oversees building inspections and plan reviews to ensure construction complies with applicable building codes and safety standards.

Duffy brings more than 30 years of building inspection experience, including service as a Combination Building Inspector and Building Official in other localities. Following work in the private sector, he joined Albemarle County in June 2025 as a Commercial Plans Reviewer. He has served as the Interim Building Official since October 1, 2026.

In his new role, Duffy will work with County staff, partner agencies, and community members to support building safety and coordinate services across departments.

“David brings experience in building inspections and plan review, as well as knowledge of our department’s operations,” said Bart Svoboda, Community Development Director. “Filling this position is critical to our work to provide timely and consistent service to our community.”

The appointment is part of ongoing work to fill vacancies, including the Deputy Director, building inspectors, and plan reviewers. The department has made temporary staffing adjustments to maintain service levels while recruitment continues.

Community Development’s recent assessment identified staffing, staff development, internal coordination, and customer service as areas of focus. A multi-year implementation plan prioritizes timely service, improved internal processes, staff development, and clear performance expectations.