Belton Design Standard Update
The Belton Design Standards have now been reviewed by Council and there have been two Council workshops on the topic. The public was not invited to speak at either workshop, but the Mayor and other council members have requested and received TABA input.
We have continued to repeat our frustrations about the standards, mainly regarding the stringent masonry requirements, but as to others as well. A public hearing on the issue is scheduled for Tuesday, July 14th.
Temple Overlay Update
The City of Temple I 35 Overlay was revamped multiple times to address local concerns and the Council approved the document at a third hearing on July 2nd.
TRCC Wrap-up
One of the primary issues discussed at a recent Texas Association of Builders leadership meeting was the sunsetting of the TRCC. Some key points made during the meeting included:
***Existing warranties that were provided under TRCC rule should continue to be honored; written warranties will likely stand in court.
***The requirement for warranties won't exist on homes built after the TRCC is gone. Builders may now choose not to provide warranty, but in doing so they take a chance on an implied warranty in court. The Residential Construction Liability Act (RCLA) remains in place. TAB Contracts will be updated and available by September.
***The requirement for inspections in the County will continue through August, by which time the County may assume the authority from the TRCC to continue the requirement.
***Continuing Education that was required for TRCC credit is no longer needed.
***Continue registering your homes with the TRCC through August. If your registration becomes due to TRCC prior to the end of August, it is important that you take care of that business as well--rates will be pro-rated.
If you have any specific questions about the TRCC, please give me a call or see the TRCC website.
Legislative note
TAB was successful in getting the Fire Sprinkler Legislation Signed by the Governor. Effectively, the legislation that has been signed into law leaves the choice for residential fire sprinklers in the hands of the consumer.
TAB was successful on many fronts this legislative session. It can't be understated how hard your association works for you, please join TABA leadership in applauding the Texas Association of Builders and the National Association of Home Builders for the effort they put into and the success they had in protecting the interests of our industry.
