Downtown Code Committee Minutes 09/24/2008 Minutes
Downtown Code Committee
September 24, 2008
Committee Members Present:
Kevin Darnell
Rick Graham
Mike Koen
Leo Lane
Cynthia Laney
Troy Secord
Smith Walker
David White
City Staff:
Dave Clark, Director of Community Development
David Collins, Fire Marshall
Ricky Horton, Plan Reviewer
Bobby Teague, Building Official
This committee is being charged with reviewing how building code changes
might assist development in the downtown area.
Bobby Teague called the meeting to order at 2:08 pm.
Mr. Teague reminded the committee that Building Inspections, Troy Secord, and
David Collins were individually reviewing Smith Walker's existing plans for his
property on 8th St. to determine the need for the installation of a sprinkler system
under the ICC Existing Building Code. Mr Teague, Collins, and Secord also had
a conference call with ICC regarding interpretation. It was noted that elements of
the "New Jersey Code" had already been incorporated into that document.
It was explained that Mr. Walker's project could be done without a sprinkler
system under the Existing Building Code if his architect provided sufficient details
to support the calculations. It would also be Mr. Walker's decision whether the
alternative requirements were cost effective for him. Required elements include
standpipes, compartmentalization, and protection of the stairways and elevators.
Mr. Teague responded to a question from Mr. Graham noting the variable point
benefit for different sizes of compartments. Mr. Darnell questioned how
separation would be viewed between an empty space and a space that was
occupied. Mr. Secord answered that he would base it on what was there before.
Mr. Lane expressed his concern about the upstairs occupancies (residentially),
and how they would be protected, but liked having another option for developers.
Bobby Teague addressed the procedures that would need to be met and what
avenues the design professional can do if a set of prints is turned down. The
architect should provide documentation on his/her calculations. If there is still a
concern, a Fire Protection Engineer can provide a written opinion.
David White asked if the Existing Building Code would be in fact easier on the
developer and was answered by Mr. Secord and Bobby Teague in that it
depends on what building is being renovated, but that it could be.
Mr. Clark noted that he understood the underlying problem of cost versus the
rent that can be charged in this market. He offered that perhaps a Tax Increment
Finance benefit can be offered back to a qualifying project.
Mr. Darnell expressed that it is not prudent to write an only local code and that
the Existing Building Code seemed to open possibilities.
Mr. Graham made a motion to recommend the adoption of the ICC Existing
Building Code, seconded by Mr. Lane. This would include the noted appeal
process. The motion carried unanimously.
Meeting was adjourned at 2:50