Council committee backs keeping 2018 code but tightening energy requirements (HERS: 68→62, wall insulation to R‑20)

Staff presented a path forward for Prairie Village building codes in light of Senate Bill 418 (the 'Buy Right Housing Development Act'), which requires homes under 2,500 square feet to remain on the 2018 code. Nikki Lee and building official Mitch Stringman recommended the city stay on the 2018 code but adopt limited energy-code amendments that the state law allows.

Mitch said the two technical changes staff proposes are to raise above-grade exterior-wall insulation from R-15 to R-20 (or alternatively R-13 plus continuous R-5) and to lower the Home Energy Rating System (HERS) numeric target from 68 to 62 (a lower HERS is more efficient). "The 68 to 62 change will make new homes measurably more energy efficient," Mitch said, while staff also noted builders had been consulted and generally accepted the approach. Council unanimously directed staff to bring an ordinance to the Aug. 3 meeting and proceed with public education for builders and residents before an implementation date of Jan. 1, 2027.