11-19-2013 CCM - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

LAKE ELMO CITY COUNCIL MINUTES NOVEMBER 19, 2013 Page 3 of 6 least 30-45 days. It also would be published in newspaper. Hopefully within 60 days. Mr. Bloyer asked about existing permits. Mr. Chase stated he was not completely certain, but his estimation is 60-90 days. Council Member Nelson asked if it would be better to simply go back to state law instead of providing exemption. Mr. Chase said he always would side with the safety factor. City Administrator Zuleger explained that some states allow the final inspection or walkthrough to be done by a licensed electrician. Mr. Chase reiterated that his focus is safety and serving the residents, but he would work within whatever framework Council adopts. Mayor Pearson stated he wants Mr. Chase’s honest and direct opinion. Mr. Chase said the two options are to amend the proposal to follow the state language or evaluate skill set of applicants. Council Member Smith asked for clarification on what Mr. Chase thinks is best. Mr. Chase stated that he thinks what is proposed is best. Mayor Pearson asked about state shutdown. The City inspections would not be affected. Contract will mirror the state contractor. The contract will be renewed annually. Mr. Bloyer asked about difference between new construction and current resident in existing home. Mr. Chase stated that the amount of work involved in minor alterations is different from the sophistication required of major projects involved in new home. MOTION: Council Member Smith moved TO ADOPT ORDINANCE 08-093, TO ADOPT THE CITY ELECTRICAL PERMITTING AND INSPECTIONS PROGRAM. Council Member Reeves seconded the motion. Mayor Pearson stated he appreciated the local control aspect. He was comfortable with proposal. Council Member Bloyer would like to know how many injuries have occurred under the state standard. He is concerned about City being too restrictive. Council Member Nelson stated that he was also concerned with limiting individuals’ freedom despite the risks. It has worked so far under the state regulations. Mr. Chase provided anecdotal example of nearby builder and homes with completely bad electrical work. The buyers were upset. Council Member Reeves is concerned about community and unintended consequences. The City’s potential liability was discussed. MOTION: Council Member Bloyer moved TO AMEND PROPOSED ORDINANCE BY INSERTING STATE LAW FOR PULLING PERMIT. Council Member Nelson seconded the motion. Mr. Chase clarified that the amendment would be to follow state protocol for issuing permits. MOTION FAILS 2-3 (SMITH, PEARSON, and REEVES – NAY) Mayor Pearson asked about if requiring the load calculations would create more work for staff. Mr. Chase stated it would not. Council Member Nelson asked if reviewing the load calculations would increase for further liability for City. Mr. Chase stated it would not because the inspector is a master electrician and he would make the determination. MOTION: Council Member Bloyer moved TO AMEND PROPOSED ORDINANCE TO REQUIRE THE CITY TO ISSUE A NEW CONSTRUCTION PERMIT TO OWNER IF HE PROVIDES THE APPROVED LOAD COUNT TO INSPECTOR. Council Member Nelson seconded.