Kearney board delays vote on building code update (Bill 33-2024) to second October meeting

The Kearney Board of Aldermen voted on Sept. 3 to postpone consideration of Bill 33-2024, which would update the city’s building code to the 2018 edition, until the second meeting in October to give residents more time to review proposed changes.

An alderman moved to postpone the ordinance to allow additional public input, citing transparency and the need for residents and builders to examine the changes. Another board member seconded the motion and the mayor called for a voice vote; the motion passed.

Board members said the extra time mirrors prior outreach done with builders and will allow staff to provide documentation showing the differences between the city’s current 2012 code and the proposed 2018 update. Several aldermen emphasized the city is not proposing the 2021 or 2024 codes, and a transition to 2018 was described as a measured step.

The mayor reiterated the board’s interest in transparency and in giving residents an opportunity to review the code changes once the staff posts comparison documents. The city administrator said that, if approved in the future, the building code would go into effect at the beginning of the calendar year after it has been on file for 90 days.

Next steps: staff will publish documentation comparing current code provisions with proposed changes and continue public engagement; the item will return for consideration at the board’s second October meeting.