Lake County Gazette

City of North Chicago Judiciary Committee met Aug. 5

Here are the minutes provided by the committee:

Alderman Jackson called the meeting to order.

ROLL CALL:

Present: Jackson, Coleman, Evans, Allen, Smith, Murphy, January

Absent: None

I. DISCUSSION/REVIEW OF ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 11, CHAPTER 5, SECTIONS SECTIONS 9, 10 AND 11, STRIKING THE REQUIREMENT FOR A DESIGNATED SERVICE PROVIDER – FIRE ALARM SERVICES:

Chief of Staff Greg Jackson explained was a 5-year extension to the contract asking for another (5). He was requesting authorization from the attorneys to amend the Ordinance as Item I was discussed/directed. There was number of qualified firms that could meet the same requirements with a lesser amount. He was asking council for a collaborative conjunction with the attorneys.

II. DISCUSSION/REVIEW OF ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING RENEWAL OF AGGREGATION PROGRAM FOR ELECTRICAL LOAD:

Chief of Staff Greg Jackson reviewed year of 2021. Adam from NIMEC explained that residents that participated in the program had saved $400 - $600 in the past (3) years. Residents can opt in and out.

The Mayor questioned the current rates. Adam mentioned the safest option was the price match program. Chief of Staff Jackson explained.

III. DISCUSSION/REVIEW OF PROPOSED CITY CODE AMENDMENT – ADOPTION OF UPDATED BUILDING CODES:

Taylor Wegrzyn Economic & Community Development Department Director explained the adoption of the updated building codes from 2006 to 2021 edition to modern standards. This would include the Property Maintenance Code, Fire Code. He would propose the 2021 Code updated for the sprinkler system(s).

Alderman Coleman asked for the Fire Chief John Umek’s opinion. Fire Chief Umek explained it would result in a safer community including the firefighters and everyone involved.

The Mayor was approached by staff several times with updating the building codes. It would be more money to install a sprinkler system though would add safety if or when a possible fire. He agreed was in favor of it ensuring astute safety of the community.

Alderman Allen questioned if this would be a requirement for the newly constructed homes. Mr. Wegrzyn explained wasn’t a current requirement and elaborated further with modernization from 2006 to 2021 code.

The Mayor asked what material would be utilized for the lines for the newer buldings. Mr. Wegrzyn was unaware.

Alderman Coleman acknowledged the Chair if Mr. Reggie Boyson, Contractor/Builder could discuss how this would impact him and the surrounding builders. Mr. Boysen explained the minimum cost for sprinklers; $20,000 It would be difficult for the builders to sell the homes at a reasonable price.

Alderman Coleman asked his suggestions to reduce the cost. Mr. Boyson explained the wired smoke detectors for a single-family home. The sprinklers were more geared towards the multi-unit homes. Alderman Coleman agreed.

Alderman January questioned the material used for the lines. Mr. Boyson clarified copper was statewide. He recommended PEX piping that was more cost-effective, reliable and durable in the long term. It also reduced % of theft.

The Mayor questioned if copper was needed for the sprinkler system. Mr. Boyson replied it didn’t and the current city code allowed the PEX what he utilized for several years. The Mayor clarified the insurance costs for the homeowner would be less with the sprinkler(s). The city builders stated installing the fire sprinklers in the nearby areas was difficult to sell them.

Chief of Staff Jackson explained the insurance ratings would be reasonable, the smoke detectors were designed to exit their homes to safety and sprinklers would douse a fire. Fire Chief Umek clarified there was currently a hard-wire battery backup for when acquiring a home. He asked to research the cost further for the Sprinklers.

Alderman Allen moved, seconded by Alderman January that Judiciary Committee Meeting stand adjourned.

ROLL CALL:

Ayes: Jackson, Coleman, Evans, Allen, Smith, Murphy, January

Nays: None

Absent: None

The meeting adjourned at 7:49 p.m.

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