Florida Chapter
Gulf Coast Division
Regular Meeting: (January 20, 2010)
Bryan Holland, Secretary

The January meeting of the Gulf Coast Division was called to order by the Past President Bud Keefer. After the Pledge of Allegiance and membership introductions, Bud called the elected officers to the front of the room to be installed by Tommy Lasprogato. Following the ceremony, President Robert Romano continued direction of the meeting.

Secretary Bryan Holland welcomed Pete Pluta and Ben Controneo to the meeting, updated the attendees on membership numbers, state legislative issues, and other IAEI business. A briefing of the Florida Chapter Board of Directors Meeting was given by Tommy Lasprogato and Bud Keefer.

Under committee reports, it was noted the Florida Building Commission has made the necessary arrangements to adopt the 2010 FBC, FFPC, and 2011 NEC all on the same date. Paul Chimene of FPL gave a report on recent power events including the replacement of 300 pad-mount transformers in Lee and Collier Counties alone during the recent cold snap. As of January 1st 2010, approximately 650 tier 1, 50 tier 2, and just 1 tier 3 utility interactive photovoltaic systems have been installed in the state of Florida. Jim Kenna announced that Paul Chimene will be presenting at next months meeting.

Following committee reports new business was opened. Joe Schneeberger opened a discussion on CEU requirements and course options. Wes Colley of the ECF tied into the discussion with a mention of ECF membership benefits and the creation of a Port Charlotte Chapter.

Following new business, President Romano opened a code Q&A. Carl Fredlund asked if a large laundry room would be required to meet receptacle outlet spacing requirements in 210.52 of the NEC. The general consensus was NO. Lou Chausse asked for a clarification on AFCI requirements and the 2008 NEC. A brief discussion followed.

This month’s presenter was Secretary Bryan Holland. Bryan gave a power point overview of the Florida Building Commission website and current Workgroups. He then reviewed the new www.reConstructFL.com website. A brief discussion and Q&A followed.

Meeting was adjoined at 2:00 PM. Our next meeting will be held on February 17, 2010.

Respectfully Submitted,

Bryan Holland, Secretary