DECEMBER 23, 2009

                                                                WAYNESBORO, PA 17268

                                                                WORKSHOP MEETING

The workshop was called to order at 6:05 p.m. by Council President Craig Newcomer with the following members present:

Borough Council – Craig Newcomer, Benjamin Greenawalt, C. Harold Mumma, Charles McCammon, Ronald Martin and Jason Stains

          Borough Staff – Lloyd R. Hamberger, II, Borough Manager

                     Kevin Grubbs, Head of Engineering Services

                     Dan Sheffler, Zoning-Code Enforcement Officer

          Others – Mike Cermak (Owner of Accredited Services)

                     Paul McCarney

A discussion regarding the impact of the BOCA 1996 Building Code and the Commonwealth’s Uniform Construction Code (UCC) ensued. The UCC is silent on Electrical, Plumbing and Mechanical Codes. Currently permits for these three (3) areas must be secured and inspections made, as the Borough retained the 1996 BOCA Code. The local communities that only adopted the UCC do not require inspections for these three areas. Also, the need for the accessory building of the 1996 Code was also discussed.

The pros and cons of requiring these inspections, including the fact that many installations are being done without permits, was reviewed. Many contractors may be ignoring the requirements or may simply be unaware of the Borough’s requirements. The inspector noted he can’t enforce the Code if he is unaware of the installation. Mr. Cermak stated he looks for violators, but can’t be everywhere. Paul McCarney, a local heating and air conditioning installer, noted he was unaware of the requirements but now gets permits. He is at a disadvantage, as his competition may ignore the permitting requirements and submit a lower bid. Also, many homeowners and “do it yourselfers” do not get permits when they work on the weekend. The possible dangers of poor workmanship were reviewed.

The details of the various sections were touched upon, and the inspection requirements of neighboring communities were reviewed. It was noted communities that have adopted the UCC are in the same circumstance regarding the three aforementioned building sections, and seem to be doing okay.

It was noted the matter will be discussed at the special Council meeting following the workshop, however it was suggested that Council remove the 1996 Code and proceed with the UCC only.

The situation regarding unshoveled sidewalks was discussed. Mr. Hamberger noted the Code Officer has issued citations, and the staff will recommend some changes to the ordinance for next year.

The meeting adjourned at 6:45 p.m.

                                                                Respectfully Submitted,

                                                                ___________________________________

                                                                Lloyd R. Hamberger, II

                                                                Borough Manager