HomeMy WebLinkAbout08222024 BSC Minutes City of
West University
Place Public Works Department
Building & Standards Commission
Located in the Council Chambers,
3 800 University Blvd,
West University Place, Texas 77005
Meeting Minutes
August 22,2024
MEMBERS PRESENT: Jonathon Hance, Bruce Beneke, James Craig, Matthew Brejot, Eddie
Matthews, Gerry Spedale, Spyros Maragos and Krishna Shah
MEMBERS ABSENT: Andy Fiedler
STAFF PRESENT: Public Works Director, Danny Cameron, Permit Technician, Angela
CeZar, Legal Counsel Loren Smith and Zoning Administrator, Joe
Newton
GUESTS PRESENT: Alida Drewes, Dick Yehle, Kalie Rainsberger and Sam Harwell
[Call to Order] Jonathan Hance called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
1. Notices, Rules, Etc. Jonathon Hance welcomed BSC members and staff to the meeting. Angela
CeZar stated that the agenda was posted per state and local laws. Jonathon Hance stated there would
not be any alternate voting members. Jonathon Hance reviewed the general rules for the meeting and
all members and staff introduced themselves.
2. Public Comments. Kalie Rainsberger, 3121 Wroxton spoke regarding concerns over safety at
building sites, building practices employed, restricting safety and quality in building practices and
the city's perceived failure to enforce safe practices. Alida Drewes, spoke regarding parking issues in
private driveways and on-street parking and flooding issues. Sam Harwell, 3809 Marquette spoke
regarding permeable surfaces and the electrical code updates if changes are to be considered.
3. Discussion Items from City Council. Jonathon Hance stated the BSC would discuss, review and
consider action on potentially recommending amendments to certain city ordinances at the next
meeting. Danny Cameron stated the items from City Council are items that have been raised with
City Council for further review.
• Definition of a Structure: Danny Cameron stated the definition needed to be clarified that
details what a structure is. Jonathon Hance stated the challenge would be to come up with a
sustainable solution; a comprehensive definition that's not just a list of exceptions.
3826 Amherst St. zvzvzv.westutx.gov
West University Place, TX 77005
713-662-5830
City of
West University Place Public Works Department
• Driveway Building Materials: Danny Cameron stated there are a few different types of
pervious material that could be used. If the BSC is interested, City could put a detail sheet
together that shows the average cost. There was general discussion regarding the maintenance
and how it would be enforced by the city.
• Electrical Code: Danny Cameron stated when the new codes were adopted, the current code
was not cleaned up. Need to remove the old language that is no longer required, just a basic
clean up. Jonathon Hance stated it would be a good idea to bring in an electrician to make sure
the code gets changed correctly.
• Fire Code: Danny Cameron stated bigger homes are now being built and makes access more
difficult for Fire Dept so should the city require a fire protection system to be installed when
the new home is built. Mr. Cameron also stated he would have the Fire Marshal available at
the next meeting to explain their point of view.
• HVAC Unit Location: Danny Cameron stated the current code is ambiguous and could benefit
from some revisions.
• Irrigation Systems: Danny Cameron stated currently there is a yearly inspection of all
commercial backflow preventers. Does the city want to make this a requirement for resident
properties as well. After discussion, Danny Cameron stated staff would provide additional
information on backflow preventors at the next meeting.
• Major Remodels: City staff recommends that a re-certificate of occupancy be required for all
major remodels where a resident would have to move out and before they could re-occupy.
• Noise Ordinance: Danny Cameron discussed whether sound absorbing enclosures should be
required on all new generator installations.
Jonathon Hance said that we would address all the above items in a staged approach. For the next
meeting he would like to discuss Irrigation systems, Fire Code and major Remodels. Danny Cameron
stated staff will provide information on above items for next meeting and have Fire Marshall attend.
Jonathon Hance made a motion to adjourn. Matthew Brejot seconded. AYES: Jonathon Hance, Bruce
Beneke, James Craig, Matthew Brejot and Eddie Matthews. NOES: None. ABSTAIN: None. Motion
carried.
Meeting was adjourned at 7:06 p.m.
3826 Amherst St. www.westutx.gov
West University Place, TX 77005
713-662-5830
City of
West University Place Public Works Department
PASSED T 3r) DAY OF QC�-ploer , 2024.
Jonathonel:4/1e, Chairman
ATTEST.
Josie M. Hayes, Administrative Coordinator
3826 Amherst St. www.westutx.gov
West University Place, TX 77005
713-662-5830