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The members of the Building Officials Conference of Northeastern Ohio (BOCONEO) extend their heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, coworkers, and colleagues of David Smerek.

Those wishing to honor David's memory are invited to attend the public prayer vigil announced by the City of North Royalton.

Governor DeWine’s 2026 State of the State Address highlighted a continued focus on Ohio’s children, including school-based health services, literacy supports, and expanded opportunities during the school day. As districts implement these initiatives—whether through reconfiguring spaces, expanding facilities, or increasing flexible use of existing buildings—OBOA encourages members to partner early with superintendents, facility managers, and design professionals.

In the wake of the devastating fire at the Le Constellation bar in Switzerland, our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and the first responders involved. The Ohio Building Officials Association (OBOA) encourages all property owners to take a fresh look at the materials on their walls and ceilings.

“The ability for certified building department personnel to cross-train is a welcome change,” said Dan Perno, OBOA Education Committee chair. “As workforce supply and demand continue to evolve, evaluating personnel based on equivalent competency will give departments a practical path to develop qualified staff internally.”

The Ohio Fire Code, 2025 edition, first printing, is now available online. Read more for access links, adoption notes, and member information regarding known OBC/OFC conflicts.

The FBI is warning the public about an emerging phishing scheme by criminals impersonating city and county officials to solicit fraudulent payments for city and county planning and zoning permits. OBOA members are encouraged to read and forward the PSA within their organizations and to the public.

NAHB's report "Government Regulation in the Price of a New Home: 2026" highlights that growth in regulatory and non-regulatory costs continues to deepen the housing affordability crisis. OBOA welcomes continued work with our partners to make affordable, resilient housing a reality for Ohioans.

The Ohio Building Officials Association attended the Ohio Board of Building Standards' Initial Stakeholders' Meeting on February 24 and supported proposed rule updates that include updates to certification types, cross-training qualifications, and residential department scopes; establish provisions for the use of certified third-party plan reviewers and inspectors; and makes minor adjustments to continuing education provider approvals.