Cities talk about updating building codes
Staff writer
Marion will start looking at updating its building code.
It will better enable downtown building owners to upgrade their buildings and qualify for the historical district tax credits, according to city administrator Brian Wells said.
At Monday’s council study session, Mayor Mike Powers asked for Wells and economic development director Megan Jones to join code enforcement officer James Masters in working on revising the code.
Resident Matt Meyerhoff asked for a policy statement on how to revitalize and create zoning changes.
Council member Zach Collett urged adding more affordable living downtown spaces.
Powers said he wanted any proposed changes to have already been vetted by professionals before coming to the council.
Masters believes in the new versions of the international standard building code, Powers said.
Local contractors probably will ask for leniency, Collett said, but added the code exists for a reason.
“Council members have got to look at downtown revitalization,” Meyerhoff said.
He owns two downtown apartments that are being remodeled.
His goal is people living downtown to have more businesses open after 5:30 p.m.
It makes it better for people living in downtown,” he said.
It would in the millions to revitalize or remodel all of the buildings in downtown.
“We are committed to do the research to see if it is possible,” Powers said. “We have got to get a handle on these codes. We need a plan to get this going.”
Powers wants outdated codes replaced but at the same time be sensible.
More downtown business would mean much less parking, Wells said.
This item will be placed on Monday’s council agenda.