The June 26, 2025, meeting of the Mountain View Council Sustainability Committee focused on updates regarding the 2025 Triennial Building Code and the city's reach code initiatives. The session was led by Lindsay Hagan, Assistant Community Development Director, alongside Community Development Director Christian Murdoch and Chief Building Official Nina Bizjak.

The meeting began with Hagan providing an overview of the California Building Standards Code, which is updated every three years to incorporate new technologies and safety enhancements. She explained that while cities in California must enforce these state codes, they have the option to amend them locally, particularly to address unique climatic or geological conditions.

Hagan detailed the development process of the building codes, which are based on international and national standards tailored to meet California's specific needs. She emphasized the importance of the California Energy Code, which is a critical component of the reach codes, and noted that any local amendments require a cost-effectiveness study and approval from the California Energy Commission.

The discussion included the significance of the cost-effectiveness study, which evaluates the financial viability of new requirements. Hagan clarified that cities only need to demonstrate one cost-effective path among various options, a point that simplifies the amendment process.

The committee also reviewed the collaborative efforts involved in developing local amendments, highlighting the participation of various city departments, including public works and fire safety, as well as regional partnerships with organizations like Silicon Valley Clean Energy.

Hagan concluded by noting Mountain View's leadership in implementing reach codes over the past decade, starting with new construction initiatives in 2016. The committee's discussions underscored the city's commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency as it prepares for the upcoming code updates.

The meeting set the stage for future actions and collaborations aimed at enhancing building standards and promoting sustainable practices within the community.