City Council Minutes 2000 02 01 - Laserfiche WebLink

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for adoption. He noted extensive study was done, and legal counsel has been involved through out the entire process. The Board of Appeals conducted three advertised public hearings, and direct mailing were sent to plumbers and general contractors licensed in the City of Louisville. The Colorado Plumbers Board recently approved PEX water Pipe and Engineered-plumbing systems, which resulted in the Ordinance being further, amended. Talboom noted that the International Plumbing Code allows more flexibility while maintaining public safety, and utilizes provisions used throughout the United States. He stated that it is the melding of three codes, and the method, and materials have been used and time tested by master plumbers in other jurisdictions. He noted that fifteen jurisdictions in the State of Colorado, and the Colorado Housing Division, have adopted the International Plumbing Code. Davidson opened the public hearing and asked if there was anyone in the audience that wished to speak in favor or opposition of Ordinance No. 1316, Series 1999. Ray Schlott, of 647 Manorwood Lane, is a member of the Board of Appeals. He participated in an eighteen-month process by the Board and the Chief Building Official, to pursue adoption of the International Plumbing Code. He reviewed the significant points of the process. Specifically the Board utilized the City Attorney to research the legality of adoption by the City of Louisville, and held three public meetings. They conducted extensive reviews and comparisons of the Uniform Plumbing Code; seeking input from independent sources and review of actions taken by other Colorado Cities. They compiled information, made revisions and updated recommendations. In conclusion, the Board of Appeals recommended that Council adopt the International Plumbing Code, with the revisions suggested by the Board of Appeals. Steve Pierce, 5638 Orion Circle, Golden, CO, a licensed plumber, voiced his concern over the adoption of the International Plumbing Code. He noted that he is also the Chairman of the State Plumbing Board, but was representing himself, and that this was the third time that he has appeared before a board in Louisville. He explained that the State Plumbing Board is appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. The State Plumbing Board has several duties, one is to adopt a State Plumbing Code. Another duty is to conduct examinations granting licenses. Licenses are granted after successful completion of the plumbing examination. Questions on the exams are taken from the 1977 Uniform Plumbing Code, and not the International Plumbing Code. According to Mr. Pierce, it is the opinion of the State Plumbing Board that the best Code is the Uniform Plumbing Code, therefore they have adopted it. He read from the Colorado Plumbing Code, Amendments, and Variances, stating that "such code shall represent the minimum standards for the installation or alterations and repair of plumbing equipment and systems throughout the State." "Local governments shall be committed to amend the Code, when adopting a Plumbing Code for their jurisdiction, as long as such amendments are at least equal to the minimal requirements set forth in the Colorado Plumbing Code". He noted that the State Plumbing Board compared the International Plumbing Code to the Uniform Plumbing Code and it was a unanimous decision to adopt the Uniform Plumbing Code. He stated that the Uniform Plumbing Code is the best code and used by Master 4