As one developer moves forward with a multi-million dollar project on one side of the city, on the other, business owners are starting to grumble over their own necessary remodeling projects in order to meet minimum code requirements.
The problem isn’t for current tenants but for new occupants of buildings on the Strip.
As remodeling starts on the interior of the building to match the needs of the new tenant, the city requires an inspection of that construction. Part of that inspection is to ensure the building is meeting all current code requirements.
If the building doesn’t pass inspection, the city can withhold granting an occupancy permit.
Some business owners are saying the city is taking it too far and upgrades should only happen when the building switches hands.
For instance, following the 2006 International Building Codes, which the city adopted last year, public restrooms would have to be added to a number of the buildings on the Strip when they switched tenants. The number of restrooms added is based on occupancy.
If electrical wiring also did not meet minimum standards, it would have to be upgraded as well.
The fire district, which also issues a separate occupancy permit, determines whether fire sprinklers, wired audible/ visible alarms or other devices are needed in the building.
Inspectors say they are doing their jobs but business owners say the list is too long and too expensive.
The complaints have gained the attention of at least one alderman who wants the city’s code re-examined.
Alderman Jeff Van Donsel said many of the requests to bring the buildings up to code are unreasonable for the eclectic, mom-and-pop places on the Strip. Instead, he is asking the board to review the codes and tailor them to suit the city’s needs.
Possibly, he said, approve businesses on the Strip as an exception to following all the codes.
City Administrator Dave Van Dee said he viewed the remodeling positively.
The businesses are reinvesting into their properties when they are making those upgrades, he said. It helps their insurance rates and it affects people’s pride in the Strip.
There will be no favoritism when enforcing the rules, Van Dee stressed. The rules will be applied the same way to everyone.
Contact this reporter at deanna.wheeler@lakesunonline.com.
