Special meeting of November 3, 2004
MEMBERS PRESENT: Jim Sparks, Chairman, Lynn Barrington, Vice-Chairman, Tom Patchen, Bryan Wyatt, Frank Estrada
GUEST PRESENT: Ken Christianson, IAPMO
EX-OFFICION: Tim Pinnick, Inspections Supervisor
Chairperson Sparks called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
Chairperson Sparks explained that the board’s comparison of the Uniform Mechanical Code and the International Mechanical Code is completed and the purpose of this meeting is to select the code that will be recommended to the city commission for adoption. He then asked each board member to offer their opinion about the comparison of the codes.
Mr. Wyatt, “The UMC is more prescriptive and comprehensive while the IMC refers to other I-codes. I prefer the Uniform Mechanical Code.”
Mr. Estrada, “The UMC contains most of the information and you have the option to refer to other standards, the IMC requires reference to other standards. The UMC should be retained.”
Mr. Barrington, “After comparing chapter to chapter, I found the UMC is more complete while the IMC requires 3 to 4 other books to get the same information. The UMC is more restrictive in some instances and similar to the IMC in other respects. I prefer the UMC.”
Mr. Patchen, “I prefer the UMC because the information is contained in one book rather than several and it is more detailed.”
Mr. Sparks, “I’ll use the old adage, if it ain’t broke don’t fix it. I am satisfied with the UMC.”
Mr. Barrington made a motion to adopt the 2003 Uniform Mechanical Code as the recommended standard for all mechanical installations within the city of Lawrence. Second by Mr. Estrada. Vote unanimous by show of hands.
Mr. Barrington asked if it would be appropriate for the Chair or Vice-Chair to contact the Plumbing Board Chairperson to coordinate the board’s appearance before the commission. Mr. Pinnick interjected that four boards will be submitting their recommendations and staff will check with the City Manager to determine how and when the commission would prefer that be done. This will be relayed to the all boards. The members concurred. There was general discussion about the progress and code issues faced by the other boards.
Mr. Wyatt asked Mr. Pinnick about the status of the open permit letter notification. Pinnick stated that the notification procedure is under revision. When completed the contractor will be notified first and if no reply within 15 days, a letter will be sent to the home or business owner. No letters will be mailed until the revision to the procedure is completed.
Motion to adjourn made by Wyatt, seconded by Patchen. Pass 5-0. Meeting adjourned at 5:45 p.m.