The city will vote on a newer version of the National Electrical Code today.

The 2005 version of the electrical code was placed on file for public inspection at the last council meeting.

Mayor John Inyart and Scott Pamperin, the city planner, have not heard any feedback from the community regarding the 2005 version.

The Charleston Electrical Commission recommended adopting this version earlier this year.

“The codes change overtime and the electrical commission felt it was important to update to a more current version of the code in order to keep up with industry changes and standards,” Pamperin said.

The 2005 version would require new buildings in Charleston to adhere to the version’s design standards for electric wiring and equipment.

For example, Pamperin said one of the new requirements would make it mandatory to have Arc Fault Breakers in bedrooms, which detect non-working electrical arcs and disconnect them until an arc fire can begin.

“There are other specific changes, but most of the changes offer clarification in the text of the electrical requirements,” Pamperin said.

The city is currently using the 2002 version of the National Electrical Code.

Pamperin said most electrical contractors in the area already follow the requirements of the 2005 National Electrical Code or newer versions.

The National Electrical Code regulates new construction and building techniques involving the installation of electric wiring and equipment throughout the country. Newer versions of the National Electrical Code are available, but the 2005 version works out best for Charleston, Inyart said.

Inyart said at the last council meeting the city waits until the newer versions are established and all the “kinks” are fixed out.

Inyart said he would not attend the meeting because he will be out of town on business.

The council will also vote on a raffle license for HOPE of East Central Illinois. The proceeds from the raffle would go toward a children’s program to buy school supplies and take children places during the summer.

HOPE provides housing outreach, prevention, and education to families in domestic abuse situations. The council will meet at 7:30 p.m in the City Hall at 520 Jackson Ave.

Elizabeth Edwards can be reached at