Fire Chief Asks City To Adopt Fire Codes

Bourbon Fire Chief Steve Kimker asked the city of Bourbon on April 20 adopt International Fire Codes that will help lower insurance rates.

The codes have been adopted across the entire fire district, but Kimker wants the city to adopt the codes as well, providing consistency across the board.

“We want everything to be consistent with no discrepancies,” Kimker said.

Adopting the codes will put Bourbon in line with Sullivan, Cuba and other municipalities in Franklin County.

The new codes create a permit process for commercial buildings in the Bourbon Fire District.

Kimker said any business constructing a commercial building or renovating 25% of an existing structure would have to be inspected by the fire department.

“We’re not going in on existing buildings unless they are doing a remodel,” Kimker said.

Kimker described it as a “life-saving code” and said they would not be looking at plumbing, electrical, footing or foundations.

Firefighters will test systems, alarms and vents.

Buildings with alarm systems would be required to have a knox box installed.

Knox boxes allow first responders access into secure buildings and removes barriers to entry.

“If we have to respond, it’s easier than paying for a (broken) door,” Kimker said.

Ward 1 Alderwoman Sonya Sewald questioned how expensive it would be for businesses to pay for the permit, up to $1,000.

A $150 fee would be required for new businesses.

Kimker said it is necessary.

“We have a $222,000 budget,” he said. “We need to offset the manpower needed for the inspection and permit process.”