CEDAR FALLS, Iowa --- Monday marks the last chance for opponents of an ordinance requiring key lock boxes outside businesses and some apartment buildings.
The City Council is scheduled to vote on the third and final reading of an ordinance adopting the 2009 International Fire Code. Part of that code specifies the fire chief can require lock boxes for emergency access to keys to buildings.
The Cedar Falls ordinance would require lock boxes be installed on commercial buildings and apartment buildings with three or more separate units. Since 2004 the city has required the boxes for commercial buildings with alarm systems and apartment buildings with six or more units.
Opponents of the ordinance have mounted a spirited opposition to its adoption. They have established a website, circulated a petition and produced a video to fight against the ordinance. Those opponents claim the lock box requirement is a potential security issue and an expensive, unfair requirement for businesses.
Supporters say it can save time and property by providing firefighters easy access when an alarm sounds or a fire breaks out.
The first two considerations of the ordinance resulted in 6-1 votes in favor of the ordinance. Nick Taiber was the only council member to vote against it each time.
The City Council meets at 7 p.m. at City Hall, Second and Clay streets.
[YOUTUBE] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zFCLiij0CBA [YOUTUBE]

figured you guys would have something to say about this one for sure