Florida Chapter
Gulf Coast Division
Regular Meeting: (June 18, 2008)
Bryan Holland, Secretary


The June meeting of the Gulf Coast Division was called to order by the President Jim Anderson at 12:30 PM. There were 22 members and guests present.
The Treasurer’s report was approved as read.
The minutes of the May meeting were approved as written.

Secretary Bryan Holland asked Tommy Lasprogato to give a report on the Chapter Meeting and Seminar. Tommy reported on key topics and gave an account of the 55 year award presentation given to Joe Schneeberger. Following the report, Bryan gave an update on the FBC/NEC adoption issue. Bill Pancake followed with a state legislation update.

A question and answer session was started with Pascal Schreier with the ECO-CAR display provided in the parking lot before the meeting. Following the discussion, Jim Kenna announced a desire to receive safety training and education and that he would be looking for a couple of presenters for future meetings.

Under new business, distinguished guest, Dick Widera made comment that all UL standards have been updated to comply with the 2008 NEC which may cause some conflict in Florida which is currently under the 2005 NEC. An example was provided by Mr. Widera concerning overcurrent devices used on equipment covered under Article 440. Greg Brown asked if the switch loop for the pool light needed to be in a raceway or another approved raceway in compliance with 680.23 of the NEC. It was agreed upon by the group that as long as the branch circuit supplying the pool light transformer is in a raceway and contains an insulated equipment ground, the switch loop can be any other approved wiring method. David Engelhart asked the group if the optional calculation for multifamily dwellings could be used for 3-phase, 208/120Y systems. It was agreed upon by the group that the optional calculation only applies to single-phase systems as identified in the section. President, James Anderson notified the group that he is seeing insurance companies require the removal of FPE and fused service panels based on the recommendation of Home Inspectors. A brief discussion followed.

Following all business and code discussion, Bryan Holland gave a 1-HR presentation on the 1-HR Advanced Module Course as required per the ECLB. All members in attendance received the CEU free of charge.

The meeting was adjourned at 2:00 PM. The next meeting will be July 16th, 2008.