City of Lawrence

Neighborhood Resources Department

 

MEMORANDUM

 

TO:

Mayor and City Commissioners

 

THRU:

Victor Torres, Neighborhood Resources Director

FROM:

Lee Queen, Building Code Board of Appeals Chairman

DATE:

February 24, 2005

 

SUBJECT:  Building Code Board of Appeals requests City Commission input on International Residential Code, Chapter 11.

 

The Building Code Board of Appeals recently completed a review of the International Residential Code (IRC) and recommends the adoption of the building portion to include local amendments with the exception of Chapter 11, Energy Efficiency.  This chapter includes energy efficiency requirements for the design and construction of One- and Two-Family dwellings constructed under the International Residential Code.  At a regular meeting held February 10, 2005 the board drafted a statement to the City Commission, the minutes and statement were subsequently approved at the February 24, 2005 meeting.  The statement from the Board is as follows:

 

Statement to the commission

The Building Code Board of Appeals has reviewed Chapter 11 of the 2003 International Residential Code.  Chapter 11 sets forth the energy efficiency related requirements for the design and construction of buildings regulated by the IRC.  The board is aware of the lack of affordable housing in the City of Lawrence.  The Board anticipates that the added cost due to the new energy requirements may result in increased cost for existing, less energy efficient homes as well as for new homes.  This would exacerbate the affordable housing problem.  If this holds true, the issue becomes affordable housing versus improved energy efficiency in new homes. 

 

From a technical viewpoint, the Board believes the recommended energy standards are solid and will save significant energy for new homes.  However, the cost of ownership for existing homes may be increased by the standards (which apply only to new homes).  It is in this area that the majority of the Board feels that the effect of adopting the new energy standards becomes policy  decision and not that of a technical advisory board.  The Building Code Board of Appeals is requesting input or guidelines from the commission before proceeding to do further analysis and make recommendations. 

    

Action Items

If appropriate, provide staff and the Building Code Board of Appeals direction on further analysis and recommendation regarding the adoption of Chapter 11, of the IRC.