Michigan's proposed building code, including specific framing, energy-efficient insulation, and mandatory sprinkler systems, is facing criticism from home builders who argue that it could raise home prices by $20,000, further exacerbating the state's housing affordability crisis. The Home Builders Association of Michigan is submitting an alternative code proposal that aims to achieve similar improvements at a third of the cost.
Palo Alto has granted a dispensation to celebrity chef José Andrés, allowing him to use natural gas at his new restaurant, Zaytinya, after being threatened with a lawsuit. The city had banned natural gas in new construction last year, but Andrés successfully argued that his project was grandfathered in under the old rules. Andrés' lawyers claimed the new rules were "legally defective and unconstitutional" and threatened to sue the city. The restaurant will be housed in a building that will also house another eatery named Dumpling City, and other buildings in the development would have to adhere to the new rules.
