City Council Planning Sessions

Monday, Dec. 9, 2024 I. Call to Order The Wheaton City Council Planning Session was called to order at 7:15 p.m. by Mayor Suess following the conclusion of public hearings. The following were: Physically Present: Mayor Suess Councilman Barbier Councilwoman Bray-Parker Councilman Brown Councilman Clousing Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller City Staff Present: Michael G. Dzugan, City Manager Robert Lehnhardt, Director of Finance Thomas Corrigan, Director of Building & Code Enforcement Halie Cardinal, Public Relations Coordinator II. Approval of Planning Session Minutes – October 28, 2024, and Budget Workshop Minutes – November 11, 2024 The City Council approved the October 28, 2024 Planning Session Minutes, and the November 11, 2024 Budget Workshop Minutes. III. Building Code Adoption City Manager Dzugan stated that the City currently enforces the 2018 International Code Council (ICC) model codes and the 2017 National Electrical Code (NEC). City staff are recommending adopting the 2024 ICC model codes and the 2023 NEC. City Manager Dzugan stated that the code adoptions would not significantly alter existing building standards, provided the City implements amendments that reflect the needs of the community. For example, while the new codes require sprinkler systems in one- and two-family homes, the City will continue to exempt these dwellings from that requirement. The review and adoption process will include introducing the documents and a draft ordinance, informing residents and stakeholders, collecting feedback, holding a first reading at the Jan. 21, 2025, City Council Meeting, and a final reading at the Feb. 3, 2025 City Council Meeting. Director of Building & Code Enforcement Corrigan emphasized the importance of keeping codes current to address technological advancements; maintain safety and design standards; follow industry best practices; and meet Insurance Services Office (ISO) requirements. He stated that the changes in the 2024 ICC model codes and the 2023 NEC are minimal in terms of design and cost impacts. Notable updates include provisions for energy storage systems and enhanced egress requirements, which support maintaining positive ISO recognition.  Monday, Dec. 9 2024, CITY COUNCIL PLANNING SESSION MINUTES In response to a Council question, Director of Building & Code Enforcement Corrigan stated that the 2024 ICC model codes address energy storage systems, whereas previous versions did not cover this area. City staff are recommending implementing amendments to prohibit the installation of these systems within a home’s living space because of potential fire safety hazards. In response to Council questions, Director of Building & Code Enforcement Corrigan stated that the City can achieve a grade four ISO rating by adopting these new codes. He stated that the ISO grade is important for residents’ insurance rates. IV. Public Comment There were no public comments. V. City Council/Staff Comments Mayor Suess thanked City staff, Councilman Brown and the community for participating in the 13th Annual Lions Charities Reindeer Run in Wheaton on Saturday, Dec. 7. VI. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 7:26 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Halie Cardinal