Florida Chapter
Gulf Coast Division
Regular Meeting: (December 17, 2008)
Bryan Holland, Secretary

The December meeting of the Gulf Coast Division was called to order by the President Jim Anderson. Treasurer Mike Looney gave the Treasury Report which was approved as written. The minutes of the November meeting were approved as written. Secretary Bryan Holland was not able to be present for this month’s meeting.

Under Committee Reports:

Bill Pancake gave an update on the 2011 NEC code change process.

Jim Kenna confirmed the guest speaker for the January meeting will be Tracy Hall of Stingl Co. to give a presentation on the new pool safety requirements.

Under New Business:

President Jim Anderson discussed pool inspections for new construction. Florida Statutes require inspection before water is put into pool.

We discussed tripping of arc-fault breakers due to smoke/carbon monoxide alarms.

Vince LaPorta said that Charlotte County has a law on the books that requires a licensed electrical journeyman on a jobsite at all times work is being performed. He said the county is now planning on enforcing this ordinance. They may reciprocate with other areas.

Mr. Allen Weiss, P.E, LC, of Sesco Lighting Co. gave us an excellent slide presentation about the new chapter 13 Florida Energy code. He explained the new requirements for commercial & some multifamily dwelling lighting systems. This also pertains to existing building alteration jobs.

Allen said ever building trade will have to sign a Form 400 that states we understand & comply with the new building regulations. He supplied all members with informative paper work and a small computer hard drive that covered the entire subject. That was very convenient. We did not have to take notes or try to memorize everything. Allen followed with a question and answer period. Continuing Education Credits were provided for this seminar.

Our next meeting will be Jan. 21, 2009. Meeting was adjoined at 2:30 PM.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all, Joe Schneeberger