Board adopts building‑code update, keeps R‑13 wall insulation and clarifies basement rules

The Board of Aldermen approved amendments to the municipal building code that lower the required wood‑frame wall insulation from R‑20 to R‑13 and remove an insulation mandate for unfinished basements; finished basements must still be insulated to match the rest of the home. Community development director David Pavich told the board the R‑13 standard aligns with existing practice under earlier model codes and that higher insulation would raise installation costs without proportionate utility savings.