VENTURA : Masonry Structures Must Be Anchored

The Ventura City Council gave final approval Monday to a modified earthquake-proofing ordinance that engineers say focuses on the danger of flying debris.

The council voted 6 to 1 to require owners of 138 unreinforced masonry buildings to anchor their brick parapets so they are more resistant to earthquakes. Councilman Jim Monahan voted against the measure.

The ordinance also requires downtown landlords to anchor their tile roofs and to coat windows larger than three feet square with shatterproof glazing.

The council approved the law despite objections from downtown landlords who insisted at earlier council meetings and public hearings that the ordinance is too strict and requires work that is too expensive.