Updating the town’s building codes is the primary business on the Town Council agenda for this Thursday, Oct. 17.

The town is currently using the 2006 version of the building codes that cover all versions related to construction. The update will adopt the 2012 version of all but the electrical code, which will be the 2011 version.

Updating building codes every three years allows the town to maintain a higher Insurance Service Organization (ISO) rating. That can translate into better insurance rates for property owners in the community. Surrounding communities in the Valley have adopted the new codes, which provide consistency for builders.

The State Legislature has adopted a prohibition on municipalities adopting residential fire sprinkler ordinances. However, the Town of Fountain Hills, working with the then Fire District, adopted sprinkler codes in the early 1990s and those have been grandfathered by the legislation.

The resolution to update the codes has been written to retain the existing sprinkler ordinance.

The council will also consider the appointment of four individuals to the town’s Public Safety Advisory Commission to serve a two-year term beginning on Nov. 1.

The council’s consent agenda includes the purchase of a modular building to be installed at the Street Department yard for offices.

The existing modular building, which was purchased used in 1993, will be demolished.

The cost of the new 1,440-square-foot structure is $135,207. The contract is with Pac Van, Inc.

The position of vice-mayor will be rotating this week from Councilman Tait Elkie to Councilwoman Cassie Hansen. Town Code requires that every elected council member serve as vice mayor during their term in office. Hansen is in her second term on the council and has served previously as vice mayor.

The Town Council will meet Thursday, Oct. 17, at 6:30 p.m. in council chambers at Town Hall. The session is open to the public.