Tornado-damaged Hugo considers 'safe rooms' requirement
City leaders in Hugo are considering a requirement that builders offer a 'safe room' option to subdivision homeowners following a devastating tornado that ripped through the community more than a year ago.
The city council takes up the mandate Monday night that requires homebuilders to offer the reinforced rooms as an option on houses in new subdivisions. Existing homes won't be affected, nor will new construction of single homes.
The rule would apply only to new subdivision developments. The reinforced rooms are built to withstand powerful storms. Homebuilders say it would be difficult to add any more regulation right now.
A tornado in May 2008 killed a toddler, injured several other residents and devastated parts of Hugo.
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Information from: St. Paul Pioneer Press
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