Clinton adopts building code

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By Steven Martens | Wednesday, July 25, 2007 12:22 AM CDT | () comments

CLINTON, Iowa — The Clinton City Council made official Tuesday what the Iowa Legislature made inevitable months ago, adopting the state’s building code.

But the decision about whether to adopt the International Plumbing Code or the Uniform Plumbing Code was delayed until next month, despite the protests of council member Bob Soesbe.

The council formally adopted the state’s building code effective July 1, 2008, adhering to a state law approved in April that required all Iowa towns of more than 15,000 people that did not have a building code to either adopt their own building code or the state’s code no later than July 1, 2008.

Clinton was the only Iowa town that fit that description.

But it was the debate over which plumbing code to adopt that became contentious Tuesday.

The new state law requires Clinton to adopt a plumbing code that is at least as stringent as the state code, which follows the Uniform Plumbing Code, said City Attorney Matt Brisch.

The council could adopt the International Plumbing Code, but would have to amend it to include certain sections of the Uniform Plumbing Code that are more stringent, Brisch said.

Soesbe, who represents the 1st Ward, said given the state’s requirements, there was no point in delaying the vote.

“I see no reason for us to even consider the International Plumbing Code,” Soesbe said. “We might as well get this over with.”

Council member Mark Vulich, At-Large, said his understanding was that the Uniform Code was geared towards professional plumbers, while the International Code was easier for amateurs to use. He said the city should take the time to study its options.

“I don’t see what the hurry is to decide on this tonight,” Vulich said.

Council member Ron Mallicoat, At-Large, agreed.

“What’s wrong with us taking our time and doing it right?,” he asked.

City Administrator Gary Boden said the city staff was recommending waiting until more information could be gathered about alternatives.

Bill Schweitzer, North Central Regional Manager for the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, the organization that wrote the Uniform Code, said an informal survey of about half a dozen local plumbing contractors showed they supported the Uniform Code.

Rita Swearingen, regional manager of government relations for the International Code Council, said the two codes are similar, but described her organization’s code as “the most up-to-date and modern code on the market.”

The council voted 6-1 to delay passage of a plumbing code until Aug. 24 to allow for more time to gather information about the two codes, with Soesbe casting the dissenting vote. He said delaying action will make it more difficult for the city to have its building code department up and running by the July 1 deadline.

“I think the sooner we take action on this, the sooner we can get it done,” Soesbe said.

Steven Martens can be contacted at (563) 659-2595 or smartens@qctimes.com.