Des Moines City staff reopened discussion of a local sound code on March 27, outlining how changes in building and energy codes since 2007 complicate a simple re-adoption of the earlier sound ordinance and reporting a rough consultant estimate of about $20,000 to scope code amendments.

A staff member summarized background: the city’s earlier sound code (Ordinance 14‑07, February 2007) was repealed in 2012 and current building and energy-code changes (examples cited: higher insulation requirements and continuous exterior insulation) mean a straightforward readoption would not easily address exterior aircraft noise without modern engineering input. The staff member said they had reached out to consultants and received a preliminary estimate of $20,000 from Coffin Engineers to help draft options and modernize the code.

Councilmembers expressed divided views. One councilmember recounted personal experience from a 2008 home remodel, saying the prior sound-transfer code materially increased construction costs (double sheathing, higher-grade windows and additional drywall, which the speaker estimated raised window costs by about 40%). Other members argued a targeted approach—focusing on new construction and major exterior remodels, or picking specific measures that provide high benefit for lower cost—might reduce burdens while improving living conditions for residents affected by airport noise.

Committee direction was to collect more information before committing to a consultant contract: staff were asked to (1) get an additional consultant quote, (2) talk to neighboring jurisdictions with sound codes to learn about impacts on development and remodels, and (3) explore narrower code options that avoid undue costs for routine remodels. Staff was also asked to try to reduce the consultant cost estimate below $20,000 if possible and return with more data.