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ICC eNews

Nguyen Named Code Official of the Year

Costa Mesa, California, Building Official Khanh Nguyen was the recipient of the ICC Code Official of the Year Award, which is presented to an individual who demonstrates a high standard of performance and furthers the cause of safety in the built environment.

Nguyen has successfully implemented two innovative programs in his community to encourage home improvements and green building: the Residential Remodel Incentive Program, which waives permit fees and has resulted in $36 million in home improvements in Costa Mesa; and the Building Green Incentive Program, which has seen local home and business owners commit to invest more than $500,000 in green improvements by installing solar panels, tankless water heaters and high energy efficient heating and cooling systems.

Nguyen’s programs have not only spurred investment in the Costa Mesa area, but have helped educate residents on the important work of the local building department, as well.

“I’m truly honored and proud to receive this award, which I accept on behalf of the Costa Mesa Building and Safety Department whose staff worked tirelessly in the last few years to make this incentive program successful,” said Nguyen. “I think what makes this award so special to me is that it came from a great organization such as the International Code Council, and I'm proud to receive this award and proud to be a member of this organization. I would also like to thank the Orange Empire Chapter, which is my local chapter. A dozen members are here in support and I thank them all for making the trip. Thank you very much and have a great conference.”

Khanh Nguyen (center) receives the 2008 Code Official of the Year Award from Code Council outgoing Board President Steve Shapiro (right) and Awards Committee Chairman Tim Ryan.