Cities talk about updating building codes
Staff writer
Peabody City Council began discussions Monday on updating the city’s building, electrical and plumbing codes, which are more than two decades old and are increasingly out of step with modern construction and safety standards.
The city’s gas and plumbing codes date to 2006, while the electrical code was adopted in 2005.
“As we get further and further away from these codes, it becomes more of a problem,” city administrator Paul Leeker said.
He also raised concerns about inconsistencies within the city’s ordinances related to contractor permits, bonding requirements, and inspections. In some cases, plumbers and gas fitters must have bonds approved by the city council, while electricians are approved administratively.
Council members agreed to file a report outlining the issues and authorized Leeker to work with the city attorney to develop more uniform rules. Leeker said the goal was to streamline permitting, improve consistency, and reduce unnecessary delays for contractors and residents.
Leeker said he would explore renewing conversations with Newton about contracting for building inspection services. Such an arrangement could allow Peabody to adopt codes already in use regionally and provide more consistent inspection coverage.
Council member Andrew Rosine said updated codes and inspections were a public safety issue, particularly for residents and first responders.
“We just can’t have ad hoc electrical work,” Rosine said. “It puts too many people at risk.”
Updated codes would apply only to future construction or remodeling projects and would not require residents to retrofit existing homes.
In other business, the council approved routine financial items, and updated the city’s list of official bank signers, removing former mayor Catherine Weems and adding mayor Kevin Burke.
The council approved reinvesting a certificate of deposit at a 3.63% interest for five months rate.