HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0281.074 2020-2022 ®OMIZU
architecture
826 Kaheka Street,#305
Honolulu,HI 96814
Phone:(808)721-4267
E-Mail:reid@omizuarch.com
Web: www.omizuarch.com
August 3, 2021
TO: Council Members
Hawaii County Council
25 Aupuni Street
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
FROM: Reid Mizue, AIA
President .
OMIZU Architecture Inc.
SUBJECT: Re: Bill No. 44
Relating to An Ordinance Amending the Hawaii County Code 1983
(2016 Edition, as amended), Relating to the County Construction Code
Dear Council Members,
My name is Reid Mizue, AIA. As a licensed design professional /firm leader that conducts
design projects on Hawai'i island and has both family and friends who reside in Hilo and Kona,
we felt compelled to provide testimony on behalf of our private firm and the architectural
profession. I am writing in SUPPORT of the clean version Bill 44 and the housekeeping
amendments in Communication No. 281.23, dated August 2, 2021.
Keeping Building Code Updated
Moving forward with the clean version of Bill 44 per Communication No. 281.23 is a clear route
to abiding by the State of Hawaii code adoption mandate. Codes as indicated within Bill 44
move forward with regulations properly vetted and coordinated by DPW. If this version of Bill
44 is NOT passed:
- A less than precise/ proofread and vetted bill may be passed in a flawed manner
causing more confusion and delay for the County.
- An undesired reverting back to the State version of the 2012 or 2018 IBC codes will not
be coordinated with the County and DPW.
- Erosion of updated building codes and code processing is not the proper safety
measure for any County in any State to be considering. To remain updated with
building codes as a principle is key to maintaining health, safety, and welfare for
residents of Hawaii County. 14Comm. No.
TM
Ref. To: P 1 Limn cil
Ref. Date AUG - 4 20.21
Speed of Permit Processing to Date
Passing a clean version of Bill 44 per Communication No. 281.23 is the quickest and most
efficient way to getting the County permitting process back on track:
- EPIC software is currently in use and there will be a learning curve for design
professionals and County staff reviews.
If passed, only one Code update to be considered by County plans reviewers will be
required as opposed to multiple Code updates (should the County not pass Bill 44 and
revert to the 2012 IBC codes for only a short period of time.)
- Confusion and Delay. To limit confusion for both the County and General Public, Bill 44
per Communication No. 281.23 provides the most succinct and coordinated code
amendments with the County. It has the ability to both update County code and
streamline changes for permit processing. Path of least resistance.
Health Safety and Welfare
As a licensed design professional we have a State license to uphold design intent so that
Health Safety and Welfare are of utmost importance. As an architect and local resident I
OPPOSE any amendments that will eliminate structural engineering reviews by the County.
- Any governmental review regarding building code is an extra set of checks & balances
that is welcomed.
- Licensed design professionals, licensed construction companies/ Contractors, and
County officials benefit from having checks & balances such as design / structural
reviews so that buildings within the County can hold the health, safety and welfare of it's
residents to a high standard. Peace of mind for all parties involved.
Sincerely,
• -77 -St,.
Reid Mizue, AIA
President
Omizu Architecture Inc.
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