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HomeMy WebLinkAboutBuilding Commission Minutes 2 25 2015BUILDING COMMISSION MINUTES Wednesday, February 25,2015,2:00 p.m. MEMBERS PRESENT: Pat Hudgens, Tom Lohbauer, David Teas, John Shales MEMBERS ABSENT: Chuck Kellenberger, Steve Silva and Dave Ryan. STAFF PRESENT: Raoul Johnston, Marc Mylott, Matt Falco, Dave Decker, Chief John Fahy EFD, Asst. Chief Tim Maroder, Art Peters EFL) and Sandra Kolba. VISITORS: None. CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order by Pat Hudgens at 2:10 p.m., in the West Conference Room, The Centre, 100 Symphony Way, Elgin, IL 60120. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: The minutes of the February 18, 2015, meeting were presented. A motion was made by John Shales and seconded by Tom Lohbauer and the minutes of that meeting were unanimously approved. NEW BUSINESS: Raoul indicated that the NoBurn company requested a different appeal meeting date since they were not able to be available on the original date of 3 -4 -15 and asked if the Commission could meet for the appeal on 4 -8 -15 instead. Chief Fahy indicated that he and fire department personnel would not be available for that date and indicated that the dates of 4 -15, 4 -22, and 4 -29-15 would be his available dates. Raoul indicatd that he would contact NoBurn with these tentative dates and ask them to pick one that works for them. He said he will see how they respond. Three items were held over from the last meeting - Sections 507.9, 915 and 1607.12.5. Section 5107.9, Unlimited Mixed Occupancy Buildings With Group H -5: Raoul indicated there there is no size limit on an unlimited area building and no size constraint if sprinklered for 60' parameter around a building. Art Peters indicated that unlimited area seems too much and believes there should be a 2 -hour rating between mixed use occupancies. Raoul asked the Commission if it wants an amendment with the requirement of a 2 -hour rating on other group types other than only on Group H5? Chief Fahy didn't want to be that restrictive. Raoul indicated that, currently, there is a 1 -hour separation on all Groups and all tenant spaces but, if the Commission wants to increase it to 2- hours, that could be done. Marc Mylott asked if it would be done at the time of a build out. Raoul said that the current requirement is 1 layer of 5/ 8" drywall on each side of the walls but it can be changed to 2 layers of 5/8" drywall on each side. Also, on two story buildings, separation between floors can be changed from 1 -hour to 2 -hour rating when tenants are different on each floor. Marc was concerned about those buildings that are built on a "spec" basis. Matt Falco suggested that the exception be changed from Group H5 to H to cover all. Tom Lohbauer wondered, on the exceptions, what is the maximum allowable area and Raoul answered that for H5, Type 2B construction, the maximum floor area would be 92,000 square feet. Tom then asked that, if beyond that, a 2 -hour separation would be required even if it would the the same tenant and Raoul said yes. Art Peters asked about the exterior doors and the required 250 foot travel distance. Raoul said that, the bigger the building, more doors would be required. Marc asked if each plan that comes in is reviewed individually for doors and Raoul indicated that they were reviewed individually based on wall placements. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should remain as is. Section 908.7, Carbon Dioxide Systems: Art Peters suggested that different type occupancies should meet different requirements when it came to either the inside or outside storage of Carbon Dioxide Systems and believed that, on a case -by -case basis at the time of application submission, the City should go out to the location and do a site visit. Pat Hudgens suggested that ventilation systems can be added to these systems as well. Chief Fahy said that these systems should require permits. Matt suggested that the size of the tank should be limited to 100 pounds or gallons, dependent upon how they are measured. It was agreed that more research needed to be done on this Section and therefore it was tabled until the next meeting. 2 Section 1607.12.5, Photvoltaic Panel Systems: Concern was raised about the placement of these systems on the roof for access purposes. Matt Falco said that there should be a 36" access area around roof to the equipment. Tom Lohbauer wondered if that included roof top units and Raoul said that it included those as well as skylights. Tom believed that this should be looked at as well in the Mechanical and Electrical Codes. Raoul said that he would draft up an amendment to show that there would be a requirement of a 36" access and clearance to equipment and around skylights. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should be amended as proposed. Section 1609.1.1, Determination of Wind Loads: Raoul indicated that there was a change of wording and some referenes not referred to have been updated and rewritten. He added that nothing drastic has changed in this Section. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should remain as is. Section 1613.5, Amendments to ASCE 7: Raoul indicated that this is changing a small Section of ASCE 7 but does not appear to be an issue but to just be aware in the design of a new structure. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should remain as is. Section 1613.6, Ballasted Photovoltaic Panel Systems: Raoul indicated that, if a Photovoltaic Panel System is added, it needs to be properly ballasted so that it won't fly off of the roof. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should remain as is. Section 1705.12.7, Storage Racks: Raoul indicated that this Section requires an inspection on rack systems if rack storage is over 8' high, it would require a special inspection and the City be supplied with an inspection report. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should remain as is. Section 1705.15, Mastic and Intumescent Fire - Resistant Coatings: Raoul indicated that this was another new Section requiring special inspections for these types of coatings. Those inspection firms need verified credentials and then get an inspection report to the City. Pat Hudgens said that this could be used with 3 the NoBurn if allowed. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should remain as is. Section 1708.3.2, Load Test Procedures Not Specified: Raoul indicated that this Section provides that, if there is unusual loading, a design professional will go and review the load and structure to verify that it is acceptable. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should remain as is. Table 2304.10.1, Fastening Schedule: Raoul indicated that the Table has been expanded to provide for more areas where fastenings would be required between various elements. This will create more items to review to make sure that the fastening is sufficient. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should remain as is. Section 2304.12, Protection Against Decay and Termintes: Raoul indicated that this Section has been expanded insofar as all wood would be required to be pressure treated. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should remain as is. Section 2308, Conventional Light -Frame Construction. Raoul indicated that there was very little change other than changing the Section numbers and moving paragraphs around. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should remain as is. Section 2612, Plastic Composites: Raoul indicated that, since there are so many new materials available on the market, the code is finally catching up with those materials. Chief Fahy indicated that he was good with this code. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should remain as is. Section 3006, Elevator Lobbies and Hoistway Opening Protection (formerly Section 71.3.1.4.1 }: Raoul indicated that this Section was previously in Chapter 7 and was moved into Chapter 30 where all of the elevator requirements are. In the past, when designing a building, this code would have to be hunted down to find. There aren't a lot of changes on this code other than just putting it with the other elevator requirements. El After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should remain as is. Upon completion of the list of Sections that Raoul put together for the Commission to discuss, Art Peters indicated that he had a few Sections that he would like additional discussion on. Section 406.3.1, Classification (of Parking Garages): Art Peters said that he believes that, if the structure is not sprinklered, a heat detection system should be added for early warning on multi- family applications. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should be amended as proposed. Table 601 Fire - Resistance Rating Requirements for Building Elements Hours Art Peters passed out a handout to the Commission members . He said that footnote d) should be removed and add sprinklers. Raoul indicated that this footnote is in previous codes as (d) and suggested adding it back in as (g). He said (d) was used in 2A, 3A and 5A construction and will add to those areas again as footnote (g). Art indicated that this allowance could be used only once. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should be amended as proposed. Section 603.1 Allowable Materials: Art Peters suggested the addition of a few words in a subparagraph 603.1.1.4 to read Fire retardant wood to be allowed as approved by the Building Offical and the Fire Code Official." Pat Hudgens reiterated the requirement of the consensus of both the Building and Fire Official and that both departments review and agree. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should be amended as proposed. This concluded the discussion of the 2015 International Business Code and, since there was still time left in this meeting, it was agreed that the Commission start its review of the 2015 International Existing Building Code. REVIEW OF THE 2015 INTERNATIONAL EXISTING BUILDING CODE: Prior to the start of review, Raoul indicated that this code has been written since the 2003 code cycle. Raoul had looked at it at that time but it was so poorly written the City elected to forego with this code and use Section 34 of the International Building 5 Code, until now. In 2015, the ICC took Section 34 out of the International Building Code and integrated it into this 2015 International Existing Building Code. Raoul indicated that this code is now well written, that it is a good code and will help out our community with so many older buildings. He also indicted that this code will be beneficial to the Fire Department as it will raise the bar. He also indicated that it is not so stringent as to turn older communities into ghost towns as there is some wiggle room to work with and more control. Marc Mylott had a concern about when and how this code will take effect compared to the requirements that exist now. Raoul said that the code would take effect upon change of occupancy, not of a new tenant, but of a new use group, where some minimum changes would need to be made. Mark indicated that these are similar questions that would be asked by City Council. Raoul indicated that there is another option since Section 14 is basically Section 34. He said that Section 14 could be taken out and attached to the 2015 International Building Code and use as an amendment to that code. Marc said that this needs to be thought out and a good presentation needs to be given to the City Council. Section. 105.2, Work Exempt From Permit: Raoul indicated that Item 1, Sidewalks and Driveways, should be amended out as these require zoning review and permit. He also said Item 3, Temporary Motion Picture, Television and Theater Stage Sets and Scenery, require a permit for assembly use to ensure that it is done properly without hazard. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should be amended as proposed. Section 302.2, Additional Codes: Raoul indicated that this Section makes reference to other codes, some which we do not use. He said that the International Fuel Gas Code should be amended to National Fuel Gas Code, the International Plumbing Code should be amended to the State of Illinois Plumbing Code, and the International Private Sewage Discharge Code should be amended to State of Illinois Plumbing Code. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should be amended as proposed. Section 403.1, General: Raoul indicated that Exception 1 refers to Section 1011 of the International Building Code and should be amended to include R311.7 of the International Residential Code. Also, Exception 2 should be amended to include Section 8311.7.8. After n discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should be amended as proposed. Section 405.1.2, Existing Fire Escapes: Raoul suggested that this Section should be amended to include "will require a structural inspection/ analysis at 5 year intervals," to be sure the fire escapes are safe for emergency services. Dave Decker suggested that this Section should be amended further to add that an initial inspection needs to be made within a one year period and then again at five year intervals. He added that he believes that this Section does not belong in this Code. Matt Falco asked what would trigger an inspection. Dave Decker said that, if you look at the scope on page 1, it doesn't apply to buildings that nothing is being done to. Marc agreed that the inspections need to be done but may need to be put into a different code. Pat Hudgens asked who would do the inspections and Raoul said that a structural engineer would be required to do them. An example of one existing fire escape that there was much concern about was the one at Medusa's which has a high occupancy load. Medusa's did one several years ago even when it wasn't required. Marc suggested that different inspection intervals should be based on the type of occupancy. Raoul indicated that a structural analysis would be good on a 5 -year cycle and would need the report in writing. Marc said that this needs to be discussed with all building owners. He asked if it would start with adoption of this code and have five years or have the analysis done now and another one in five years. Tim Maroder said that he believes that an inspection should be done now and then again in five years. Chief Fahy wondered how many fire escapes the city has since there is currently no inventory of fire escapes. He added that he would Iike to do some additional research on this Seciton and therefore it was tabled until the next meeting. Section 407.1, Conformance:. Raoul indicated that changes were being made in the International Existing Building Code to comply with the International Building Code and delineates when things need to come into conformance. As an example, if there is a change in the occupancy group type, this code would come into play and when it should meet the requirements of the International Building Code. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should remain as is. Section 410, Accessibility for Existing Buildings: Raoul indicated that this Section refers to accessability in existing buildings and suggests that this Section is amended to conform to the requirements of the Illinois Accessibility Code. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should be amended as proposed. 7 Section 609.1, Materials: Raoul said that plumbing materials and supplies should reference the requirements of the State of Illinois Plumbing Code. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should be amended as proposed. Section 702.6.1, International Fuel Gas Code. Raouls suggested that this code be amended to reflect the National Fuel Gas Code. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should be amended as proposed. Section 7051, General: Raoul suggested that this should be amended to remove Chapter 11 of the International Building Code and replaced with the Illinois Accessibility Code. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should be amended as proposed. Section 706.1, General: Raoul indicated that this Section refers to Chapter 15 of the International Building Code and should be amended to include Chapter 9 of the International Residential Code to cover any type of structure. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should be amended as proposed. Section 804, Fire Protection: Raoul indicated that this Section includes items such as corridor ratings and sprinkler systems, etc., and it is similar to the International Building Code. He indicated that nothing stood out and asked if it was okay with the Fire Department personnel. Art Peters said that he would like to take a better look at this code and Chief Fahy asked if this Code covered residential sprinklers. Raoul answered affirmatively but that there was no reference to single family homes. After discussion, it was agreed that this Section will be tabled and addressed at the next meeting. Section 805.3.1.1, Single -Exit Buildings: Raoul indicated that this Section is in line with the International Building Code requirements and does not require amending. This Section would be triggered only by the change of occupancy. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should remain as is. Section 810, Minimum Fixtures: Raoul indicated that this Section should be amended to conform with the State of Illinois Plumbing Code rather than the International Plumbing Code. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should be amended as proposed. Section 1010.1, Increased Demand: Raoul indicated that this Section should be amended to conform with the State of Illinois Plumbing Code rather than the International Plumbing Code. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should be amended as proposed. Section 1010,2, Food - Handling Occupancies: Raoul indicated that this Section should be amended to conform with the State of Illinois Plumbing Code rather than the International Plumbing Code. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should be amended as proposed. Section 1010.3, Interceptor Required: Raoul indicated that this Section should be amended to conform with the State of Illinois Plumbing Code rather than the International Plumbing Code. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should be amended as proposed. Section 1010.5 Group I -2: Raoul indicated that this Section should be amended to conform with the State of Illinois Plumbing Code rather than the International Plumbing Code. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should be amended as proposed. Section 1101.2, Creation or Extension of Nonconformity: Raoul indicated that this Section should be amended to ensure conformity with the City's zoning ordinance. Marc Mylott said that this didn't mean that it would change from one tenant to the other but, rather, it would apply to buildings that I have been vacant for years and a new tenant wants to use the same use as it was years' prior. He added that, after a property has been vacant and seemingly abandoned for several years, it would lose its non - conforming use unless there was a rebuttable presumption that the use would remain the same. Raoul indicated that this Section should be amended to conform with the State of Illinois Plumbing Code rather than the International Plumbing Code. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should be amended as proposed. Section 1105, Accessibility: Raoul indicated that this Section should be amended to make sure that accessibility is in conformance with the State of Illinois Accessibility Code. Raoul indicated that this Section should be amended to conform with the State of Illinois Plumbing Code rather than the International Plumbing Code. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should be amended as proposed. Section 1203.10, Guards: Raoul indicated that this is regard to historic buildings and would allow the city to have more leverage to work with houses in the Historic Districts. Marc indicated that he had written up some guidelines just today and asked if Raoul had a chance to look at them and compare with this code and Raoul indicated that he hadn't but would take a look at it. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should remain as is. Section 1302.1, Location on the Lot: Raoul indicated that this Section refers to the International Building Code and the International Residential Code but suggested that it is amended to also conform with the zoning ordinance of the City of Elgin. After discussion, it was agreed by the Commission members that this Section should be amended as proposed. This ended the review of the International Existing Building Code. Raoul said that he was going to ask Dave Ryan, a structural engineer, to review the appendices to report back to the Commission. All ageed. Chief Fahy wanted to introduce Assistant Chief of the Fire Department, Tim Maroder, to the Commission. He indicated that Tim has been the Assistant Chief for a year but has had 29 years with the city. The Chief indicated that Tim is in charge of Emergency Management and Administration. Raoul added that he has worked with Tim and it has been a pleasure since he is easy to communicate with. 10 PUBLIC COMMENTS. There were no public comments presented at this meeting. ADJOURNMENT: A motion was made by john Shales to adjourn the meeting at 3:45 p.m., and seconded by Torn Lohbauer. The motion passed unanimously and the meeting was adjourned. Respectfully submitted, Sandra . olba Acting Secretary Date: '-) -- — l 5