Commissioners hear update on Initiative 2066, building-code confusion and local options
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Summary
Staff and outside partners told commissioners the legal challenge and state code‑council timing have left jurisdictions choosing different enforcement approaches; staff said the county could consider reverting to older code versions or seek counsel guidance for local amendments.
County staff and outside advisers updated commissioners on the local implications of Initiative 2066 and recent litigation over state energy and appliance provisions.
Andy (identified as a staff contact who connected the county with other jurisdictions and building officials) summarized the situation: after Initiative 2066 passed, the state Building Code Council has not settled implementation details, and a lawsuit seeking to roll back aspects of the initiative has created uncertainty. He said some jurisdictions are enforcing more restrictive measures around gas appliances while others are trying to adhere to the voters’ intent; “it’s kind of the wild west” for code enforcement until the council finalizes guidance.
Commissioners discussed the components of energy codes — insulation values, window specifications, and appliance treatment — and expressed concern that requirements such as triple‑pane windows and restrictions on gas could be unaffordable or impractical in some parts of the county. One commissioner said that, in some rural locations with frequent long outages, restricting gas or wood heat is not feasible. Andy recommended county counsel coordinate with legal advisers and local building officials to determine the most appropriate local approach; he said he had arranged meetings with external counsel and stakeholders to explore options.
Staff noted one potential administrative path: reverting to an older energy code (for example, 2015 standards) while state-level rules are in flux, but emphasized that guidance from legal counsel and the state Building Code Council will inform any formal local decision. Commissioners asked staff to report back with more detail and counsel’s recommendations at the next meeting.
No formal ordinance or code change was adopted at the session; staff will continue outreach to neighboring counties and legal advisors and present options at a future meeting.