BUILDING: Code red, Kootenai

I am writing in opposition to Kootenai County proposals creating any ordinance that attempts to make any exceptions or exemptions to having building plan reviews, permits, and inspections that ensure the public will have sound and safe buildings.

It is very rare for one person to own a structure forever and the only way to ensure predictably safe buildings is through a well vetted permitting process. It’s essential for both current and future owners. I work as a building official and plans examiner in the state of Idaho for Northwest Code Professionals. I also serve as the current Executive Board President of the International Code Council (ICC), Region II, serving the states of Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington and Wyoming. The ICC is a member-focused association with more than 64,000 members dedicated to developing model codes and standards used in the design, building and compliance process to construct safe, sustainable, affordable and resilient structures. In not adopting the most current model codes or by not requiring building permits, the entire county region is in jeopardy of having increased property insurance rates, dangerous buildings, loss of property values and putting at risk the largest investment a family may ever make. Should Kootenai County choose to exempt permits or not adopt the current model codes, they would automatically receive the lowest rating possible with a score of 10. Only 2.8 percent of the country scores this low. This will have a very negative effect on insurance rates. This is a huge mistake!

JACK APPLEGATE

Eugene, Ore.