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Council introduces reach‑code and low‑carbon concrete ordinances, waives further reading
Summary
Staff introduced two ordinances to align local building standards with the 2025 California code (adopting select CalGreen Tier 1 measures, an energy 'flex path' and EV‑readiness thresholds) and to add a low‑carbon concrete requirement for larger pours (13 cubic yard trigger); the council voted to introduce both and send them for state review.
Patrick Kelly, director of planning and building, and sustainability staff presented two ordinances: a reach‑code ordinance to reintroduce and adapt local green‑building and energy measures to the 2025 California Building Standards (including an energy flexibility 'flex path' and EV‑readiness triggers) and a low‑carbon concrete ordinance establishing maximum cement or embodied carbon limits for certain projects and a 13 cubic‑yard trigger for city applicability.
Grace Ledwith (sustainability coordinator) and county staff discussed how reach codes will be carried forward, why certain Tier‑1 energy efficiency measures were not adopted (cost‑effectiveness), and how the low‑carbon concrete ordinance relies on qualified supplier lists so permit applicants can select compliant ready‑mix products. A county speaker described enforcement practices used at the county level, including a list of pre‑approved mix designs and permitting forms; staff said costs for many low‑carbon mixes are negligible compared with conventional mixes and that the county has used similar measures since 2019.
Council members asked detailed questions about exemptions (shotcrete, small packaged mixes), the 13‑cubic‑yard threshold (roughly one ready‑mix truck plus a margin), and how the city will provide upfront resources such as forms and a supplier list to avoid surprise requirements at permit time. After public comment in the room and online, a councilmember moved to introduce both ordinances by title only, a member seconded, and the council passed the motion by voice vote. Staff will return for a second reading and submit the ordinances to the state Building Standards agencies for review.
