Agenda Item # 11.4 - Joseph Robinson | Received 07/28/2022From:
To:City Clerk; All Council Members
Subject:EXTERNAL - Public Comment Item #11.4. Council Discussion and Direction Regarding Potential 2022 Reach
Codes
Date:Thursday, July 28, 2022 9:59:36 AM
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City Council, Public, and Staff,
Every three years, cities and counties throughout California are required to adopt local building codes in line with
the new Building Standards Code or Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations. In addition, cities and counties
may adopt building codes more advanced than those required by the state, known as REACH codes. A REACH
code is a local building energy code that “reaches” beyond the state minimum requirements for energy use in
building design and construction, creating opportunities for local governments to lead the way on clean air, climate
solutions, and the renewable energy economy.
We finally have the chance at our August 1st City Council meeting to correct the disregard for current and future
generations. The REACH code effort became a regional movement, by 2022, 12 of Silicon Valley Clean Energy’s
13 member agencies (Gilroy City Council Declined in 2019) adopted REACH codes of varying levels. Statewide,
more than 50 cities and counties have adopted similar codes in an effort to reduce emissions and achieve our shared
climate goals. Now it's time for Gilroy to join the region, and build a cleaner future for the next generation.
I write to express strong support for the adoption of all electric residential/commercial buildings REACH codes,
including EV infrastructure for multi-family developments. By adopting REACH codes that incentivize energy
efficiency and electrification in buildings, Gilroy can lead the way to a healthier and more sustainable future through
cleaner air and improved public health. Reduce the use of natural gas combustion in homes and instead, using
electrification, avoids prolonged exposure to natural gas fumes, which can lead to respiratory issues like asthma.
REACH codes support more affordable housing: all-electric homes cost less to build and operate than homes
powered by natural gas. REACH codes lower climate impact: powering buildings with renewable energy reduces
CO2 emissions.
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