PROFILE
Lynn commented. Alabama has been criticized for not having a statewide system of building code inspection and enforcement. Lynn says that most municipalities do have codes, but construction outside city limits is often done without code compliance. “The secret to codes is to have enforcement. You might pass a statewide residential code, but unless you have the ability to do inspections, then just having a code doesn’t really help you.” She does see events such as the 2011 deadly tornado outbreak doing more to promote the use of codes. “But one of the problems is that you have existing structures built many years ago. Codes typically are only effective on new projects.” However, Lynn does observe a greater emphasis on the use of storm shelters, community shelters and safe rooms in homes. “That’s a good thing which will help save lives.” But Lynn says she recognizes that codes are not necessarily a cure-all, even if they were strictly enforced. “There is always
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the unforeseen event—the unexpected catastrophe—which has the potential to destroy or damage structures. Buildings can be rebuilt. Safeguarding lives is what is most important.” State Building Commission Members Governor Robert Bentley,................................ Chairman Dr. Thomas R. Bice,........... Superintendent of Education Dr. Marquita F. Davis,............................Finance Director Dr. Donald E. Williamson,................ State Health Officer Senator Roger Bedford, ............................... Russellville Senator Arthur Orr, ...........................................Decature Senator Lee “Trip” Pittman, ............................. Baldwin Senator J.T. “Jabo” Waggoner, ..................Vestavia Hills Representative Mike Ball, .............................. Huntsville Representative Randy Davis, .............................Daphne Representative John F. Knight, ....................Montgomery Representative Barry Mask, ...........................Wetumpka
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AL CONSTRUCTION NEWS
APR/MAY 2012
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government.” The slumping construction economy has also hit the Building Commission as well. “We have probably the leanest staff we have ever had. “Even though there are signs that construction is recovering, tax revenues are such that there are across the board cuts throughout state government. We like to think that we are learning to do new things in new and better ways and making the most of what we have in order to serve the public,” Lynn said. It is unclear how the Governor’s announced 10.3 percent proration will impact the Commission’s services, Lynn added. Lynn points out that it would be nice if plan submittals could be done electronically. “As much as that would be helpful, it is just not an inexpensive thing to undertake. We are still reviewing paper plans, and I think that we keep up very well considering our staff reductions.” Typical designs are allowed up to 30 days for each of the three reviews but are often completed before that,