Commissioners keep 2024 International Fire Code; dissenting commissioner seeks workshop

Tim Birdwell, the county's fire marshal, told the court the 2024 International Fire Code sets minimum safety standards that protect residents, businesses and first responders and said revoking the county's adoption would create uncertainty for inspectors, builders and property owners.

"The 2024 International Fire Code provides an established framework for fire prevention and life safety," Birdwell said, urging the court to reject revocation and maintain the adopted code. He warned revocation could unsettle inspection, construction and enforcement practices.

Commissioner Ponder said he had requested revocation not because he opposes firefighter safety but because he wants more time and public input to review the code's local amendments — particularly fee increases and new fire‑lane or sprinkler requirements he said could raise startup costs for small businesses.

"I don't want to impose too much stress on some young couple or whoever that wants to start a business because we're going to impose millions of dollars in cost in fire lanes or whatever else without reviewing it first," Ponder said, arguing for a workshop and a detailed review of fee tables.

Other commissioners pushed back, noting that fire code updates address modern hazards — including data centers, solar installations and battery storage — and stressing that amendments can be proposed after adoption. Commissioner Stinson argued the court should not remove the existing safety standard and said the body could later amend specific provisions.

The court voted 4–1 to not revoke minute order number 281.26 (the adoption of the Ellis County Fire Code including the 2024 IFC); Commissioner Ponder cast the lone no vote. Members agreed to schedule a workshop to review the code item-by-item and to accept proposed amendments at a future meeting.