As follow-up to a story we published July 5, 2012 about four shipping containers converted into an energy efficient modular home with Energy Star appliances and other green technology features, neighborhood residents continue to be upset about the modern-look building fitting in with 1950’s style homes that dot the area in Tuscon, Arizona. At a meeting Monday, Aug. 27 arranged by Tuscon Councilwoman Karen Uhlich with residents, builders, and city and state officials, KVOA-TV reports neighbor Bonnie Poulos says “there was no discussion on the part of the architects or the city to introduce the neighbors to this new project or to find out what their concerns might be once it was installed.” Ms. Uhlich says, “This project is clearly in compliance with state and city laws as they stand right now,” although she does admit there are concerns about the aesthetic and possible toxic materials embedded in the shipping containers going forward. As MHProNews reported in the earlier story, the modular home meets all local and state manufactured housing regulations as well as the International Residential Code (IRC).
