Councilors back study requiring sprinklers in model homes to let buyers see option

New Castle County Council members discussed ordinance 25-062 on May 13, 2025, a proposal to require automatic fire sprinkler systems in model homes in new-construction communities so prospective buyers can see and evaluate the feature.

The ordinance discussion was led by Councilman Koneko, who said he and Councilwoman Kilpatrick drafted the measure after conversations about increasing visibility and uptake of home sprinkler systems. "This will allow new buyers to have the option to look at if they want a fire sprinkler system," Koneko said, adding that the provision is intended as a "step 1" test to see how systems perform and whether more ordinances may follow later.

The nut graf: supporters said the requirement is intended to increase consumer familiarity with in-home sprinklers and produce real-world data about costs, water use and sales opt-ins rather than relying solely on outside studies.

Council members who spoke in favor said model-home installations would give buyers firsthand experience. Councilman Hollins called it "a smart idea" and said seeing a system in a home would help buyers make informed choices. Councilwoman George said she was "really excited" the public would be able to see systems in person and that she looked forward to the Land Use results. Councilman Street said he had prepared to object but concluded it was a "darn good idea." Councilwoman Kopack said installing working systems in model homes would provide concrete data on costs such as double water lines and insurance, and that developers already paying bills for model homes would make the study more realistic and less expensive.

Dennis Kodak, chairman of the Fire and Animals Advisory Board, spoke from the chamber during the public-comment portion and said the fire service supports the ordinance as "a good first step towards a proper evaluation of sprinklers in all new homes." Kodak said the ordinance was "well written" and voiced the board's support.

The ordinance includes a reporting requirement: the judge of Land Use (referred to in discussion as the Land Use department) was asked to report back to council within 18 months on sales and public response to the model-home sprinkler installations. Councilman Koneko said he and General Manager Culver had discussed the timeline and Culver agreed the department could provide the report.

No formal vote on ordinance 25-062 was recorded in the transcript of this meeting. The discussion concluded with council members asking questions and expressing support; Koneko yielded to colleagues for additional remarks, and the item will return for further consideration and any formal action at a future meeting.

Votes at a glance: At the start of the meeting, council members approved the committee minutes by voice vote after a motion and second; the meeting later adjourned by motion and second and voice vote. The sprinkler ordinance discussion did not result in a recorded vote during this session.

Looking ahead, Land Use will provide the requested report within 18 months, and council members said they expect to revisit the ordinance based on the department's findings.