How to keep tabs on contractor?

[Ray S.]

I hired a contractor to rehab my property. I've been waiting on permits for quite some time. He says the city has been taking a long time and has been making many request for additional information. How can I check to see if the permits are really taking so long because of the city, or if he's been slow about following up on their requests? Is there a history somewhere that shows what he's submitted, what they've requested, etc? 

Thanks