12/12/2023 (3) - Laserfiche WebLink

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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final December 12, 2023 Attachments: Staff Report Current — Exhibit 1 Wind Speeds Risk Categories 1-3 Map Current — Exhibit 2 Wind Speeds Risk Category 4 Map New — Exhibit 1 Wind Speeds Risk Categories 1-3 Map New — Exhibit 2 Wind Speeds Risk Category 4 Map Proposed Ordinance [Clerk Note: This Item was heard following the recess for the Item 12.D.1., Executive Session] Andy Sobczak, Planning and Development Services Director, appeared before the Board to present a recommended update to the Florida Building Code (FBC) Wind Speeds Risk Maps. He noted the boundaries for the wind speed lines were locally determined, and also explained the risk categories, scaled one (1) through four (4), for different structures. Maps were displayed showing I-95 as the County's threshold for 140 mph wind speed risk in categories 1, 2, and 3, and compared that with maps showing the State's new boundary along CR 512 to the west. Staff recommended updating the wind speed map boundaries in the County's code to align with the State's map. Chairman Adams entered into discussion with the County's Building Official, Scott McAdam, regarding the ramifications of moving the boundary west, and she expressed concern for potentially increasing the cost of construction in a low income area. Mr. McAdam did not believe the change would affect insurance rates, as with flood zone boundaries. Commissioner Moss received confirmation that the State's recommendations were more than three years old. County Administrator John Titkanich received confirmation adherence to codes was not retroactively required, however, Mr. McAdam declined to speculate how insurance companies would react. Vice Chairman Flescher discussed the impact to the housing market. The Chairman opened the public hearing for comments. There being none, the Chairman closed the public hearing. Chairman Adams expressed concern for the timing and financial impact of the changes, while acknowledging the increased safety. Discussion ensued with an exploration of the impact to future development, especially in the area surrounding the future Oslo/I-95 interchange. Opinions expressed included the benefits of having higher standards in place before anticipated new construction, mitigating insurance premiums for underbuilt structures, hardening new construction against wind damage, and the benefit of aligning the County with the State's standards. Director Sobczak discussed his department's methods to disseminate the Indian River County Florida Page 10