11/16/2009 9:47:00 AM Prescott Valley town energy code 'moves forward'
By Ken Hedler Special to the Tribune
The Town Council is likely Dec. 3 to adopt a "benchmark" international code to improve energy efficiency in new construction and remodels of existing dwellings.
Moreover, the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code enjoys the support of the Yavapai County Contractors Association, which has about 300 members.
"This is a model energy code," Community Development Director Richard Parker told the council Thursday evening.
Parker said council adoption of the code also will enable Prescott Valley to qualify for energy-efficiency grant programs.
While acknowledging the code will increase costs for materials, Parker said, "You find it becomes a windfall if you look at the rebates" from utility companies.
Parker found an ally in Sandy Griffis, executive director of the contractors association.
"You are moving energy savings forward," she said. She added she disagrees with public officials who fear adoption of the code will slow down construction.
The code will increase costs no more than 3 percent, Griffis said, adding, "It is something that you need to do."
If adopted, the code would go into effect July 1, 2010, according to a memo to the council from Parker.
Councilwoman Fran Schumacher told Griffis, "The fact that you are here says to me the builders are on board."
Griffis responded, "They are not fighting this at all."
Adoption of the code would help to create jobs for retrofitting homes and installing solar heating systems, Councilman Harold Wise said.
The code is scheduled to appear on the agenda of the Dec. 3 council meeting, Parker said.
The council discussed another matter with conservation in mind: installing artificial turf on the soccer field and adjacent T-ball fields at Mountain Valley Park. The project also would entail fences, benches, bollards, drainage, decomposed granite paths, grading, waterline relocation, lighting and other amenities.
Parks and Recreation Director Brian Witty brought samples of artificial turf for the council to examine it. Witty is recommending artificial turf to reduce water and energy bills, as well as maintenance.
The turf comes with an eight-year warranty from the manufacturer.
Witty showed photos of artificial turf at ball fields at the University of California - Davis, the University of Arkansas, and other colleges and high schools throughout the country.
Vice Mayor Lora Lee Nye asked about the timeframe of the project, saying, "We are going to have very anxious coaches."
Witty said the contractor is scheduled to begin work Nov. 30 and complete it by March 1.
Responding to a question from Councilman Rick Anderson, Witty said impact fees will pay for the project.
The council this Thursday is scheduled to consider accepting a bid for about $1.4 million from Low Mountain Construction Inc. for the turf/lighting project. The town received seven bids, Utilities Director Neil Wadsworth said.
The council also discussed outsourcing investment services but showed little enthusiasm for doing so.
Councilwoman Patty Lasker said she would prefer doing business with a commission-based company instead of one that charges fees.
However, Lasker and other council members told Management Services Director Bill Kauppi and Finance Manager Jim Clemens they are doing a good job managing the town's investments.
