HomeMy WebLinkAbout3/25/2009 - STAFF REPORTS - 1.A. 4 pALM S
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c�<lFORH�P. Citz Council Staff Report
DATE: March 25, 2009 PUBLIC HEARING
SUBJECT: APPROVING THE PALM SPRINGS ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAM
AND THE REPORT PREPARED BY THE AUTHORIZED OFFICER; AND
ESTABLISHING A CONTRACTUAL ASSESSMENT PROGRAM TO
FINANCE (AB811) ENERGY IMPROVEMENTS, AND CONFIRMING
ASSESSMENTS TO BE LEVIED WITHIN THE PARAMETERS OF THE
REPORT.
FROM: David H. Ready, City Manager
BY: Community & Economic Development Department
SUMMARY:
The City Council will consider the second step in a two step process necessary for the
adoption of the Palm Springs Residential Energy Efficiency Program (REEP) that was
recently authorized by the passage of Assembly Bill 811. The proposed resolution
approves the report of the authorized officer in connection with the proposed
establishment of a contractual assessment program pursuant to Chapter 29 of Part 3 of
Division 7 of the California Streets and Highways Code, establishing a program to
finance energy efficiency improvements, and confirming assessments to be levied
within the parameters of the report.
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Open the public hearing and receive public testimony.
2. Adopt Resolution No. , "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS APPROVING THE REPORT OF THE
AUTHORIZED OFFICER IN CONNECTION WITH THE PROPOSED
ESTABLISHMENT OF A CONTRACTUAL ASSESSMENT PROGRAM PURSUANT
TO CHAPTER 29 OF PART 3 OF DIVISION 7 OF THE CALIFORNIA STREETS
AND HIGHWAYS CODE, ESTABLISHING A PROGRAM TO FINANCE ENERGY
EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENTS AND CONFIRMING ASSESSMENTS TO BE
LEVIED WITHIN THE PARAMETERS OF THE REPORT."
ITEM NO. ' A
3. Authorize the City Manager or his designee to execute all the necessary
documents.
BACKGROUND:
Approval of the REEP program and assessments is the second step in a two step
process necessary for the adoption of the Palm Springs Residential Energy Efficiency
Program (REEP) that was recently authorized by the passage of Assembly Bill 811.
The program will make a significant impact toward meeting the City's energy efficiency
goals.
On September 17, 2008, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 22344 authorizing
the establishment of an "Energy Efficiency Loan Program Fund" and the creation of
appropriate activities, cost centers, and account numbers, and amending the budget for
fiscal year 2008-09 to fund the Energy Efficiency Loan Program with an initial funding
in the amount of $500,000.
On March 4, 2009, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 22444 declaring the City's
intent to finance energy efficiency improvements through the use or contractual
assessments pursuant to Chapter 29 of Part 3 of Division 7 of the California Streets
and Highways Code. Resolution No. 22444 also set the date of March 25, 2009 for this
public hearing necessary for the final adoption of this proposed program.
The Residential Energy Efficiency Program ("the Program") will assist property owners
with the sometimes prohibitive up-front cost of making energy efficiency improvements
that are permanently fixed to their property through an additional assessment on their
property.
Summary of the Program:
1. Loans will be offered to all residents of Palm Springs for residential properties
only.
2. This phase of funding is restricted to owner occupied residences—no second
home or rental properties.
3. Minimum Loan amount $5,000. Maximum Loan amount $25,000.
4. No special priority will be given to low income households or seniors.
5. Priority will be given to older and less energy efficient homes in order to
maximize on energy savings.
6. Priority will be given to efficiency rather than custom technologies such as solar,
fuel cells, etc. under this phase.
7. An energy survey (audit) will be mandatory as the first step of any application.
The energy survey will not only serve to educate the homeowner(s) but also
help to quantify energy uses and identify most beneficial energy efficiency
measures with greatest return on investment (ROI) and also will provide useful
data for future phases of the program.
8. Energy efficiency measures that are not attached to the property are not eligible
under the AB811 loan program. However, the energy surveys will identify the
potential savings of these measures, i.e. replacement of appliances such as
refrigerators, washers, dryers, etc. with energy efficient models in the
anticipation that many property owners may elect to undertake these
replacements on their own if the potential return on investment is attractive.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The City Council previously funded the Energy Loan Fund with $500,000 from the
Diversion Facility Fund. After the initial $500,000 is loaned, staff can bring to the City
Council additional options and/or sources to fund future REEP projects or phases
which may include but are not limited to the issuance of notes, bonds, or agreements
with utilities or public or private lenders or other governmental entities and quasi-
governmental entities such as CalPERS or additional funding from the General Fund.
Loans will be repaid to the City through an assessment levied against the property,
payable in semi-annual installments on property tax bills. Assessment installments will
be subject to the same penalties, remedies (including foreclosure and sale of the
property), and lien priorities as for property taxes in the event of delinquency. This lien
will take precedence over all existing and future private liens against the property
including mortgages, deeds of trust or other security instruments-
Df�r<Shay �'J Tom Wilson /
Redevelopment Coordinator Assistant City"Manager
DAVID H. READY
City Manager
Attachments:
1. Resolution including Exhibit A (Palm Springs Residential Energy Efficiency Loan
Program)
ty
RESOLUTION NO.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF PALM SPRINGS APPROVING THE REPORT OF THE
AUTHORIZED OFFICER IN CONNECTION WITH THE
PROPOSED ESTABLISHMENT OF A CONTRACTUAL
ASSESSMENT PROGRAM PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 29
AND OF PART 3 OF DIVISION 7 OF THE CALIFORNIA
STREETS AND HIGHWAYS CODE; ESTABLISHING A
PROGRAM TO FINANCE ENERGY EFFICIENCY
IMPROVEMENTS; CONFIRMING ASSESSMENTS TO BE
LEVIED WITHIN THE PARAMETERS OF THE REPORT
RECITALS:
WHEREAS, on September 17, 2008, the City Council adopted Resolution No.
22344 authorizing the establishment of an "Energy Efficiency Loan Program Fund"
and the creation of appropriate activities, cost centers, and account numbers, and
amending the budget for fiscal year 2008-09 to fund the Energy Efficiency Loan
Program with an initial funding in the amount of $500,000.
WHEREAS, on March 4, 2009, the City Council adopted its Resolution No.
22444 (the "Resolution of Intention"), declaring its intention to finance energy
efficiency improvements through the use of contractual assessments pursuant to
Chapter 29 of Part 3 of Division 7 of the California Streets and Highways Code (the
"Act"); and
WHEREAS, the Resolution of Intention ordered the City Manager or the City
Manager's designee (the "Authorized Officer") to make and file with the City Clerk a
report (the "Report") in accordance with Section 589822 of the Act and Authorized
Officer has filed the Report with the City Clerk; and
WHEREAS, the Resolution of Intention set the time and place for a hearing on
the proposed Residential Energy Efficiency Program (the "Program") as described in
the Report; and
WHEREAS, the Resolution of Intention described the proposed arrangements
for funding the Program, including certain parameters in the event that the City
determines to issue improvement bonds pursuant to Streets and Highways Code
Section 5898.28 to represent assessments; and
WHEREAS, on March 25, 2009, following notice duly given in accordance with
law, the City Council held a full and fair public hearing at which interested persons
were afforded the opportunity to object to, inquire about or provide evidence with
regard to the proposed Program or any of its particulars, including the extent of the
area proposed to be included within the Program, the terms and conditions of the
F �
draft contract (described below), or the proposed financing provisions; and
WHEREAS, the Report contains (a) a map showing the boundaries of the
territory within which the Program is proposed to be offered, (b) a draft application for
participation in the Program (the "Application"), (c) a draft contract (the "Contract")
specifying the terms and conditions that would be agreed to by a property owner and
the City for participation in the Program, (d) a statement of city policies concerning
contractual assessments including: (1) identification of types of facilities or energy
efficiency improvements that may be financed through the use of contractual
assessments (the "Authorized Equipment List"), (2) identification of a City official
authorized to enter into contractual assessments on behalf of the City, (3) a
maximum aggregate dollar amount of contractual assessments, (4) a method for
setting requests from property owners for financing through contractual assessments
in priority order in the event that requests appear likely to exceed the authorization
amount, (e) a plan for raising a capital amount required to pay for work performed
pursuant to contractual assessments, (f) a statement or method for determining the
interest rate and time period during which contracting property owners would pay any
assessment, (g) the establishment of any reserve fund or funds, (h) the
apportionment of all or any portion of the costs incidental to financing, administration,
and collection of the contractual assessment program among the consenting property
owners and the City, and (i) a report on the results of the consultations with the
County Auditor-Controller's office; and
WHEREAS, the City Council, having considered all oral and written testimony,
desires to approve the Report and proceed with the establishment of the Program;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, DETERMINED, AND ORDERED BY
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The above recitals are all true and correct.
Section 2. The City Council declares that the Report, (Attached as Exhibit A),
pursuant to Section 5898.22 of the California Streets and Highways Code, as filed is
hereby approved.
Section 3. The City Council hereby establishes the Program to be
implemented as provided in the Report.
Section 4. The City Council hereby confirms the contractual assessments to
be levied within the parameters of the Report.
Section 5, The Authorized Officer is hereby directed to file with the City
Treasurer and to revise as appropriate, a list of the parcels for which the City and a
property owner have entered into a contractual assessment agreement (each, a
"Loan Agreement") pursuant to the Program.
Section 6, The City Council hereby appoints and designates the Authorized
Officer to perform the duties and functions of the City Engineer in connection with the
Program.
Section 7. Upon the execution of any Loan Agreement by all parties thereto
pursuant to the Program, the City Clerk is hereby directed to cause to be recorded in
the office of the City Engineer and in the office of the County Recorder of the County
of Riverside an assessment diagram as provided by Section 3114 of the California
Streets and Highways Code.
Section 8. After recording in the office of the County Recorder of the County
of Riverside an assessment diagram pursuant to Section 7 hereof, and prior to the
disbursement of any loan proceeds pursuant to a Loan Agreement, the City Clerk is
hereby directed to cause to be recorded in the office of the County Recorder of the
County of Riverside a notice of assessment in the form and content approved by the
Authorized Officer, as provided by Section 3114 of the California Streets and
Highways Code.
Section 9. The City Manager or the City Manager's designee are hereby
authorized and directed, jointly and severally, to do all the acts and things which may
be required of them by this Resolution, or which may be necessary or desirable in
carrying out the Program and all matters incidental thereto, including without
limitation, to make clarifying changes to the Report and to modify as deemed
necessary by the Authorized Officer or City Manager the Authorized Equipment List,
the draft Application and the draft contract included therein-
-- - �
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this day of
2009, by the following vote:
DAVID H. READY, CITY MANAGER
ATTEST:
JAMES THOMPSON, CITY CLERK
CERTIFICATION
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE ) ss.
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS )
I, JAMES THOMPSON, City Clerk of the City of Palm Springs, hereby certify that
Resolution No. is a full, true and correct copy, and was duly adopted at a
regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Palm Springs on the 25th day of
March, 2009 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
James Thompson, City Clerk
City of Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs Residential Energy
Efficiency Loan Program
(AB 811 Program)
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City of Palm Springs
Department of Community & Economic Development
March 5, 2009
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PALM SPRINGS RESIDENTIAL ENERGY EFFICIENCY
PROGRAM (REEP)
Single Family Home Program
The City of Palm Springs is dedicated to energy conservation as something that makes good
financial sense and protects our environment for the future. The innovative Set to Save
partnership is part of a longstanding commitment that is demonstrated by the City's retrofitting
its facilities with energy and water efficient fixtures,the alternate fuel cars and trucks that make
up a large part of Palm Springs's vehicle fleet, and in Palm Springs's forward thinking
construction efficiency standards.
Conceived and designed to be a groundbreaking model for other communities to follow, the
Palm Springs Residential Energy Efficiency Program teams the City of Palm Springs with its
energy utilities, Southern California Edison and Southern California Gas Company, in an
energy efficiency and conservation campaign.
The program is designed to empower the community to save money and energy by reducing
energy consumption and peak demand within the City by 20% (adjusted for growth)within five
years through education, added financial incentives, new technologies and services, and a
variety of City-wide efforts to heighten awareness and participation by Palm Springs residents.
Palm Springs residents can take advantage of this program to replace old heating ventilation,
air conditioning, lighting, and pool pumping equipment with new, more energy efficient models.
For program details, contact the Department of Community& Economic Development, City of
Palm Springs, 3200 Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262 or by telephone at
760.323.8264.
Construction Standards: Recently approved construction efficiency standards are a key part
of the City of Palm Springs' efforts to cut local energy consumption and demand.
The new standards apply to all new residential and commercial buildings throughout the City,
requiring them to consume 10% less energy than allowed by State law with the exception of
homes over 4,000 square feet, which are required to consume 15% less energy than allowed
in California.
In addition, the new standards encourage the use of added insulation, high performance
windows and glass doors, as well as high efficiency air conditioning and heating systems, in
new buildings.
INTRODUCTION
This Report has been prepared pursuant to Section 5898.22 of the California Streets and
Highways Code in connection with the establishment of the City of Palm Springs Residential
Energy Efficiency Program ("REEP")- This is the guiding document for REEP and fulfills the
Section 5898.22 requirements that this report contain:
61 —� REEP Program Report-1
1. A map showing the boundaries of the territory within which contractual assessments
are proposed. (See Appendix B.)
2. A draft contract between a property owner and the City. (See Appendix D.)
3. City policies concerning contractual assessments.
4. A plan for raising a capital amount to pay for the work performed. (See Financial
Strategy page 5)
The Residential Energy Efficiency Program described herein is designed to help Palm Springs
property owners save energy and gain independence from the scarcity of sources of energy
that are compromising the California power grid, threatening national security, and
endangering the global climate-
The Residential Energy Efficiency Program helps palm Springs property owners save energy
and money while doing right for the environment.
Goals
REEP aims to provide multiple benefits. By enabling property owners to take responsible
energy actions, the program seeks to cut their utility bills through time-tested conservation
measures. At the same time it shores up the local economy, it makes it possible for Palm
Springs to fulfill energy conservation and climate protection commitments.
The City has established a goal to reduce electric and natural gas energy consumption by
20%. The City welcomes innovative energy solutions that will contribute to this goal. The City
intends to initially fund REEP with $500,000 for energy efficiency investments that might not
have otherwise been possible.
Background
Assembly Bill 811 was approved by the California Legislature signed into law by the Governor
on July 21, 2008 and became immediately effective as an urgency measure. Under this bill,
the California Legislature has declared that a public purpose will be served by a contractual
assessment program that provides the local government with the authority to finance the
installation of distributed generation renewable energy sources—such as solar--and energy
efficiency improvements that are affixed to residential, commercial, industrial, or other real
property (collectively known as "Energy Improvements")-
The City of Palm Springs has chosen to focus on the promotion of energy and water
conservation measures. To make Energy Improvements more affordable and to promote their
installation, AB 811 provides procedures for authorizing voluntary assessments to finance the
cost of these improvements.The Residential Energy Efficiency Program works with the owners
of the property on which the Energy Improvements are to be made.
The City will make loans ('BEEP Loans") to property owners within the City to finance the
installation of Energy Improvements pursuant to contractual assessment agreements.
Property owners in the City will repay REEF Loans through an assessment levied against their
BEEP Program Report-2
property which is payable in semi-annual installments on property tax bills.
Program Benefits
From the City's perspective, the Residential Energy Efficiency Program will be a key element
in achieving the City's 20% energy reduction goals. REEF provides a significant channel for
funneling more resources into the shift to greater efficiency and renewable energy, while
securing the energy future.
For property owners, REEP offers:
• A no-money-dawn means of financing Energy Improvements.
• Fixed-rate loans.
• Financing without requiring a property appraisal.
• A streamlined loan process.
Program Administration
REEP will be administered by the City's Department of Community&Economic Development.
The Department's staff will be responsible for:
• Community outreach
• Coordinating Energy surveys
• Advising property owners
• Processing loan applications '
• Managing and tracking funds available for REEP Loans
• Monitoring individual and collective energy conservation
The intent of these services is to provide a"turn-key"service for Palm Springs property owners
who would otherwise be unable or unwilling to finance efficiency measures and renewable
energy options. Their participation is critical to the City in achieving its 20% energy reduction
goals and for the State:to meet its greenhouse gas commitments to reduce carbon emissions
to 1990 levels by 2020.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
Eligible Property Owners
All owners of improved residential real property are eligible for the Residential Energy
Efficiency Program. Owners may be individuals, associations, business entities, cooperatives,
and virtually any owner which pays real property taxes.
A property owner needs to be current in the payment of property taxes.
REEF Program Report-3
Eligibility Criteria
• Owners of residential property (name must appear on title)
• Full-time Palm Springs resident (must show driver's license or other proof of full-time
residency)
• No rental properties, snowbirds, or second-homes (in addition to proof of ownership,
must sign affidavit of occupancy and subject to public record search)
• No mobile homes since AB 811 is a property-tax-based program, mobile home
owners are excluded because they don't pay property tax (they pay a vehicle
registration instead)
Eligible Properties
REEP Loans are available to all owners of improved residential real properties in the City as
described above.
Eligible Equipment
REEP affords property owners in Palm Springs the opportunity to take advantage of a wide
range of energy-savings measures, consistent with the following provisions:
1. REEP provides financing for Energy Improvements that are permanently affixed to
property.
2. REEP Loans are- specifically made available for Energy Efficiency Improvements.
Property owners that elect to engage in broader retrofit projects — such as home
remodeling — will only be provided REEP Loans for that portion of the costs used to
retrofit existing structures with Energy Improvements-
3. REEP Loans are intended for retrofit activities to replace outdated equipment and to
install new equipment that makes energy efficiency improvements as well as building
envelope improvements that will reduce heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the
winter. Eligible equipment and efficiency measures are discussed in greater detail in
Appendix A.
Eligible Costs
Eligible costs of the Energy Improvements include the cost of equipment and installation-
Installation costs may include, but are not limited to, labor, drafting and engineering, permit
fees, and inspection charges.
The installation of Energy Improvements can be completed by a qualified contractor of the
property owner's choice- Property owners will be required to obtain bids from three qualified
contractors and select the lowest qualified bid forthe work. Contractors must include copies of
their-state and city licenses, liability and workers compensation insurance, bonding and
warranty for equipment and workmanship. Only that work carried out by a licensed contractor
REEP Program Report-4
12
will be eligible under this program. Property owners that elect to do the work themselves will
not be eligible under this program.
In each case, the Department of Community& Economic Development will determine whether
the estimated equipment and installation costs are reasonable.The Department will review the
Contractors bids and qualifications (licenses, insurances, and warranty), evaluate market
conditions and may require additional bids to determine whether costs are reasonable. While
the property owner will be able to select the Contractor of his or her choice, the amount
available for the REEP Loan will be limited to an amount between $5,000 and $25,000.
PARTICIPATION
REEP covers a wide range of energy efficiency fixtures, from windows and doors, attic
insulation and reflective roofs and coatings that are Energy Star rated. Packaged and central
air conditioning systems must meet the minimum efficiencies specified in the guidelines. Given
Palm Springs's large number of residential swimming pools, specific efficiency requirements
are presented for pool) pumps and heaters.
ENERGY SURVEYS
The Department of Community & Economic Development in conjunction with Southern
California Edison will conduct energy surveys at owners' properties. During these on-site
surveys, a trained Program expert will review as appropriate, energy efficiency, energy
management, and renewable energy opportunities and REEP financial details with the
property owner. The property owner will then be advised as to the potential Energy
Improvements, their estimated costs and savings through REEP participation.
The energy survey is a mandatory and integral part of this program. The energy survey will
help prioritize energy efficiency measures in terms of their potential reduction in energy use,
estimated cost and potential return on investment(ROI). The energy survey will ensure that if
an applicant has energy efficiency opportunities that exceed $25,000 in value,the selection of
specific measures will be consistent with the goals of this program.
THE FINANCIAL STRATEGY
The City will create the Residential Energy Efficiency Program Fund which may accept funds
from any available source and which may disburse such funds for the purpose of funding
Energy Improvements. Loan repayments —through the property assessment mechanism —
will be made to the Energy Loan Fund.
The City initially will seed the Energy Loan Fund with $500,000 from the Diversion Facility
Fund. Thereafter, the Energy Loan Fund may be funded from a number of other potential
sources, and combinations of sources, which may include but are not limited to additional
funding from the General Fund, the issuance of notes, bonds, or agreements with utilities or
public or private lenders or other governmental entities and quasi-governmental entities such
as CalPERS,
REEF Program Report-5
_ �u
REEP Funds will then be used by the City for additional REEP Loans and/or to establish a
Reserve Fund or pay administrative costs and/or to reimburse itself for advancing moneys
from the General Fund to the REEP Fund.
The Department of Community& Economic Developmentwill report on participation to the City
Manager and Council on a quarterly basis at a minimum, providing Council with the
information necessary to shift funds as it elects to do so at its sole discretion.
The City may also establish a REEP Reserve Fund if bonds are issued to cover REEP Loan
payments in the event of assessment delinquencies priorto foreclosure and tax sale if deemed
necessary by the City Manager and the City Council.
REEP Parameters
Minimum Energy Loan Amount
The minimum size for an BEEP Loan is $5,000.
Maximum Energy Loan Amount
The maximum loan amount for REEP Loans is $25,000.
Duration
REEP Loans are made available for up to 20-year terms to accommodate a wide range of
efficiency measures and renewable energy investments. The term of the loan is at the
discretion of the property owner in consultation with the Department of Community &
Economic Development. The City will set the interest rate for a REEP Loan at the time that
the City and property owner enter into the contractual assessment agreement. The
homeowner may pay off the loan early if he or she elects to do so with no penalties or fees.
Interest Rate
REEP Loans will be made for the initial $500,000 at an annual interest rate not to exceed 7%
for all loans. Thereafter, the City Council will maintain the discretion to adjust the interest rate
up to an amount not to exceed 10%. The Council will determine interest rates so that the
Energy Loan Fund remains financially viable up to the legal limit.
The City will set the interest rate for a REEP Loan at the time that the City and property owner
enter into the contractual assessment agreement.
Administrative Fees
The City of Palm Springs will offerthe Residential Energy Efficiency Program as an additional
City service that will help property owners achieve their energy goals, while helping the City
�^ REEP Program Report-6
achieve its energy and climate protection goals. The City of Palm Springs will be responsible
for all REEF' marketing and outreach, as well as the duties of the Department of Community&
Economic Development.
The City may elect to rover a portion of its costs through the "spread" between its combined
earnings rate, and the (REEP Loan issuance rate. Similarly, it may electto recover REEP costs
through a spread between bond rates and loan rates, or the spread between interest rates of
any financial vehicle. The City will not charge property owners a fixed administrative fee.
Two forms of costs will be the responsibility of the property owner:
1. Title costs — including title insurance — will be shared by the property owner and the
City. This cost to the property owner will not exceed $200 per REEP Loan.
2. Assessment collection costs will appear as aline item on property taxes not to exceed
$40 per property per year and will be paid by property owners. This cost was
determined after consultation with the County of Riverside Assessor's Office.
CHANGES TO REPORT
The Director or City Manager may make changes to this Report that the Director or City
Manager reasonably determines are necessary to clarify its provisions. Any changes to this
Report that materially modify the Residential Energy Efficiency Program shall only be made
after approval by the City Council_
The City Manager or Director may modify from time to time the Equipment List, draft Loan
Contract and draft Application attached hereto as Appendix A, Appendix D and Appendix C,
respectively, as deemed necessary, by the City Manager or the Director to effectuate the
purposes of the Program.
�— REEP Program Report-7
Appendix A
ELIGIBLE EQUIPMENT
The Residential Energy Efficiency Program offers REEP loans for a number of equipment
types and energy efficiency measures.
Efficiency Measures
The Residential Energy Efficiency Program provides services and loans for a wide range of
Energy Star-rated efficiency measures. Exceptfor HVAC equipment as noted below, efficiency
measures that are Energy Star rated must meet the Energy Star minimum efficiency levels.
For all packaged and central air conditioning systems funded in this loan program, the
minimum efficiency levels shall be as required by the current minimum requirements set forth
in Table A-1.
The City of Palm Springs anticipates that Energy Star requirements will "ratchet up"to greater
efficiency levels over time. Energy Star will also become more inclusive of technologies over
time. Thus the REEP will evolve with Energy Star and the market for energy-efficient
technologies.
The following Energy Star measures — among others — are eligible in the program.
• Attic and wall insulation
• Light fixtures (no bulb-only retrofits)
• Reflective roofs and coatings
• Windows, doors, and skylights
• Tank-less Water Heaters
Pool Equipment
Given the large number of residential swimming pools in Palm Springs the following
prescriptive standards must be upheld for Efficiency Track funding:
• Pool circulating pumps (must be Variable Flow and/or Multi-speed with controllers)
• Natural gas pool heaters (must have a thermal efficiency of 84% or greater)
Other Eligible Energy Efficiency,Measures
• Caulking and weather-stripping
• Duct insulation
• Programmable thermostats
• Solar window shades and films
• Awnings, overhangs and other shade structures
• LED lighting fixtures
• Compact fluorescent lighting
APPENDIX A REEFEligible Equipment A-1
• Timers for lighting and other electrical equipment
• Sensors and/or dimmers for lighting
• Solatubes or skylights to eliminate the need for daytime lighting
• Attic ventilation/fans
TABLE A-1
City of Palm Springs
Residential Energy Efficiency Program
Eligible Equipment
Please show this list to your contractor.
Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning Minimum efficiency:
Systems (HVAC) Split systems — 14 SEER and 12 EER or
higher; Natural Gas Furnace of 90 AFUE or
higher (Energy Star Listed)
Packaged systems—14 SEER and 11 EER
or higher
Evaporative Coolers Separate ducting systems: Duct system
must be independent of the air conditioning
and heating ductsystem-
Natural gas storage water heaters Energy Factor (EF) of 0.62 or higher
(Energy Star Listed
Tank-less water heaters Energy Factor (EF) of 0.82 or higher
(Energy Star Listed
Thermal solar systems Must be rated by the Solar Rating
Certification Council SRCC
Windows and glass doors U Value 0.40 or less
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient 0.40 or less
(Energy Star Listed
Attic and Wall Insulation Energy Star Listed
Light Fixtures
Natural Gas Pool Heaters Thermal Efficient of 84% or greater
Pool Pumps Variable flow and/or multi-speed with
controllers, conforming to the Set to Save
requirements
Reflective Roofs and Coatings Energy Star Listed
APPENDIX A BEEP Eligible Equipment A-2
APPENDIX B
City of Palm Springs
Residential Energy Efficiency Program
Map of Eligible BEEP Boundaries
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APPENDIX S Map of Eligible REEP Boundaries B-1
APPENDIX 13 Map of Eligible REEP Boundaries B-2
APPENDIX C
City of Palm Springs
Residential Energy Efficiency Program
Application Form
(Part 1 Pre-Application)
The following information is needed to determine your eligibility for the City of Palm Springs-
Residential Energy Efficiency Program. All information in this form is confidential.
Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Please supply all of the
information requested in order to ensure prompt processing. If you need assistance in
completing the form, contact the City of Palm Springs, Department of Community& Economic
Development at 760.323.8264.
(Please type or print in ink)
Applicant's Name:
Property Address:
Name(s) of Title Holder(s):
Telephone Number: Home: ( ) Work:
Email Address:
How long have you owned this property ( ) Purchasing Now ( ) Less than 1 Year
( ) 1 to 5 Years ( ) Over 5 Years
Family Composition: (List each person residing in your home. Use additional pages if
necessary.)
Family
Member Relationship to
Number Name (Last, First, M.I.) Head of Age
Household
1. Head of Self
Household
2.
3.
4.
5.
APPENDIX C REEP Application Form C-1
Is there a mortgage or mortgages on the property?
If yes, please provide the name and ,social security number of all borrowers on the
mortgage(s):
Name of Mortgagee Social Security Number
I hereby declare that the foregoing information is true and correct to the best of my knowledge.
I authorize the City of Palm Springs to verify the information to determine my eligibility and to
conduct an inspection of my property. I understand that the City is authorized to require
correction of fire, life, and safety hazards.
Applicant Date
Applicant Date
Mail or deliver completed pre-application with 'copies of required documents to: City of Palm Springs, Department of
Community & Economic Development, P.O. Box 2743, Palm Springs, CA 92263. City Hall is located at 3200 Tahquitz
Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262.
(Part 2-To be completed after energy survey and contractor bidding)
Proposed Improvements (please describe and attach separate sheet if necessary):
Itemized Estimated Cost of Improvements:
1. Construction Contract (materials/labor) $
2. Contingency (10%) 1 $
3. Drafting, Engineering, and/or Plan Preparation Fees $
4. Permit Fees $
5. Title Report $
6. Other (please specify on separate sheet) $
APPENDIX C REEP Application Form C-2
TOTAL $
Requested Loan Amount (minimum $5,000, maximum $25,000): $
Loan Term: 20-years, with option to pay off at any time without penalty.
DECLARATIONS:
By signing this Application, the undersigned hereby declares under penalty of perjury under
the State of California all of the following:
I/we am/are all of the current owner(s) of record of the property described herein.
I/we am/are not, and the property described herein is not, currently involved in a bankruptcy
proceeding.
That (i)the information provided in this Application is true and correct as of the date set forth
opposite my/our signature(s)on this Application and (ii) Uwe understand that any intentional or
negligent misrepresentation(s) of the information contained in this Application may result in
civil liability and/or criminal penalties including, but not limited to, fine or imprisonment or both
under the provisions of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001, et_ seq. and liability for
monetary damages to the City of Palm Springs, its agents, successors and assigns, insurers
and any other person who may suffer any loss due to reliance upon any misrepresentation
which I/we have made in this Application.
Uwe am/are applying for a loan pursuant to the City of Palm Springs' Residential Energy
Efficiency Program (BEEP). I/we understand that I/we must execute a Loan Agreement with
the City of Palm Springs in order to receive a loan and I/we have the authority, without the
consent of any third party which has not been previously obtained, to execute and deliver the
Loan Agreement, this Application, and the various documents and instruments referenced
herein.
Uwe understand that the loan made pursuant to the Loan Agreement will be repayable through
an assessment levied against my/our property. The assessment and the interest and any
penalties thereon will constitute a lien against my/our property until they are paid, even if Uwe
sell the property to another person. Uwe understand that assessment installments (including
principal and interest) will be collected on my/our property tax bill in the same manner and at
the same time as property taxes and will be subject to the same penalties, remedies, and lien
priorities as for property taxes in the event of delinquency.
That executing the Loan Agreement, receiving the loan proceeds, and consenting to the
assessment levied against my/our property to repay the loan will not constitute a default under
any other agreement or security instrument which affects my/our property or to which I/we
am/are a party.
I/we agree that the selection of product(s), equipment, and/or measures referenced in this
Application (the "Equipment"), the selection of manufacturer(s), dealer(s), supplier(s),
contractor(s) and/or installer(s), and the decision regarding the purchase, installation and
ownership/maintenance of the Equipment is/are my/our sole responsibility and that I/we have
not relied upon any representations or recommendations of the City of Palm Springs in making
such selection or decision, and that my manufacturer, dealer, supplier, contractor or installer of
the Equipment is not an agent or representative of the City of Palm Springs.
APPENDIX C REEP Application Form C-3
m
I./we understand that the City of Palm Springs makes no warranty,whether express or implied,
without limitation, the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for any particular
purpose, use or application of the Equipment.
I/we agree that the City of Palm Springs has no liability whatsoever concerning (i)the quality or
safety of the Equipment, including its'fitness for any purpose, (ii)the estimated energy savings
produced by the Equipment, (iii) the workmanship of any third parties, (iv) the installation or
use of the Equipment including, but not limited to, any effect on indoor pollutants, or any other
matter with respect to the City of Palm Springs REEP.
I/we understand that I/we is/are responsible for meeting all City of Palm Springs REEP
requirements and complying with all applicable Federal/State/County/City laws and the
requirements of any agreement which effects the use of the property (such as homeowner's
association requirements, if any).
Signed on this day of 200 , in the City of Palm Springs, State
of California.
Property Owner Signature: Printed Name:
Property Owner Signature: Printed Name:
REQUIRED ATTACHMENTS:
All applicants must provide:
❑ Pre-Application (Completed and Signed)
❑ Verification of Ownership (Title or Deed of Trust)
❑ Affidavit of Occupancy (Signed)
❑ Electric Bills (previous 12 months)
❑ Contractor's bid or proposal and signed contract, including contractor's name and
copies of State and City licenses; insurance certificates, bonding and warranty for
materials and workmanship
❑ Disclosure Regarding Assessment Financing (please complete and sign)
❑ State of California IFair Lending Notice (please complete and sign)
F Copy of Homeowner's Insurance Policy with adequate coverage for all new equipment
and energy efficiency improvements
Staff will include:
❑ GIS printout by Residence Address
❑ GIS printout by Owner(s) Name(s)
n Amortization Schedule (for all projects over$5,000)
❑ Application scoring sheet
❑ Project (Work) Description
APPENDIX C REEP Application Ponzx C-4
4�
❑ Project Cost Estimate
f] Credit report (to show no current default on mortgage)
❑ Title Search
IF YOURAPPLICATION IS DENIED, YOU HAVE THE RIGHTTOA WRITTEN STATEMENT
OF THE SPECIFIC REASONS FOR THE DENIAL. TO OBTAIN THE WRITTEN
STATEMENT, PLEASE CONTACT THE PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR AT THE CITY OF
PALM SPRINGS, DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AT
(760) 323-8264, 3200 E. TAHQUITZ CANYON WAY, P.O. BOX 2743 PALM SPRINGS, CA
92263-2743, OR SEND AN EMAIL TO MARI NA.KARASaPALMS PRINGS-CA.GOV WITHIN
60 DAYS FROM THE DATE YOU ARE NOTIFIED OF THE DENIAL. THE PROGRAM
ADMINISTRATOR WILL PROVIDE YOU A WRITTEN STATEMENT OF THE REASONS FOR
THE DENIAL WITHIN 15 DAYS OF RECEIVING YOUR REQUEST FOR THE STATEMENT,
THE FEDERAL EQUAL CREDIT OPPORTUNITY ACT PROHIBITS CREDITORS FROM
DISCRIMINATING AGAINST CREDIT APPLICANTS ON THE BASIS OF RACE, COLOR,
RELEGION, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEX, MARITAL STATUS, AGE (PROVIDED THE
APPLICANT HAS THE CAPACITY TO ENTER INTO A BINDING CONTRACT); BECAUSE
ALL OR PART OF THE APPLICANT'S INCOME DERIVES FROM ANY PUBLIC
ASSISTANCE PROGRAM, OR BECAUSE THE APPLICANT HAS IN GOOD FAITH
EXERCISED ANY RIGHT UNDER THE CONSUMER CREDIT PROTECTION ACT. THE
FEDERAL AGENCY THAT ADMINISTERS COMPLIANCE WITH THIS LAW CONCERNING
THIS CREDITOR IS THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION, EQUAL CREDIT
OPPORTUNITY, WASHINGTON, DC 20580.
APPENDIX C REEP Application Form C-5
DISCLOSURE REGARDING ASSESSMENT FINANCING
The Residential Energy Efficiency Program (REEP)establishes the manner bywhich the City
of Palm Springs (the"City") may make loans to property owners pursuantto Chapter 29 of Part
3 of Division 7 of the California Streets and Highways Code (commencing with Section
5898.10) to finance the installation of energy efficiency improvements that are permanently
fixed to the owner's real property. Each loan will be made pursuant to a Doan agreement
between the City and the property owner.
The loan will be secured by and repayable through an assessment levied by the City against
the owner's property. Each year until the loan is repaid, assessment installments (including
principal and interest) will be collected on the property tax bill for the property in the same
manner and at the same time as property taxes. Assessment installments will be subject to
the same penalties, remedies (including foreclosure and sale of the property), and lien
priorities as for property taxes in the event of delinquency_
The assessment and each installment thereof, and any interest and penalties thereon, will
constitute a lien against the property until paid even though priorto full payment the property is
conveyed to another person. An assessment lien will be recorded against the owner's
property in the office of the County Recorder of the County of Riverside. Such lien will be
paramount to all existing and future private liens against the property, including mortgages,
deeds of trust and other security instruments.
Before completing a REEP Application, a property owner should carefully review any
agreement(s) or security instrument(s)which affect the property owner's property or to which
the property owner is a party. ENTERING INTO A REEP LOAN AGREEMENT WITHOUT
THE CONSENT OF 'THE OWNER'S EXISTING LENDER(S) COULD CONSTITUTE AN
EVENT OF DEFAULT UNDER SUCH AGREEMENTS OR SECURITY INSTRUMENTS,
DEFAULTING UNDERAN EXISTING AGREEMENT OR SECURITY INSTRUMENT COULD
HAVE SERIOUS CONSEQUENCES TO THE PROPERTY OWNER, WHICH COULD
INCLUDE THE ACCELERATION OF THE REPAYMENT OBLIGATIONS DUE UNDER SUCH
AGREEMENT OR SECURITY INSTRUMENT.
APPENDIX C REEP Application Form C-6
251
A property owner must declare under penalty of perjury in the REEP Application that (i) the
owner has the authority, without the consent of any third party which has not been previously
obtained, to execute and deliver the loan agreement, the Application, and the various
documents and instruments referenced therein; and (ii) that executing the loan agreement,
receiving the loan proceeds, and consenting to the assessment levied against the property
owner's property will not constitute a default under any other agreement or security instrument
which effects the property owner's property or to which the property owner is a party. If you
have any questions regarding any agreements or security instruments which effect your
property or to which you are a party or your authority to execute the REEP Application
or enter into a loan agreement with the City without the prior consent of your existing
lender(s), the City strongly encourages you to consult with your own legal counsel
and/or your lender(s). City staff will not provide property owners with advice regarding
existing agreements or security instruments.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT
I have received a copy of this Notice. I have received a copy of this Notice.
Property Owner Signature: Property Owner Signature:
Printed Name: Printed Name:
Date: Date:
APPENDIX C REEP Application Form C-7
r
THE HDLlaING FINANCIAL DISCRIMINATION ACT OF '1977
FAIR LENDING NOTICE
It is illegal to discriminate In the provisions of or in the avaHability of financial assistance because of the
consideration of
1. T rends, characteristics or conditions'in the neighborhood or geographic area surrounding a housing
accommodation,. unless the financial Institution can demonstrate in the particular case that such
consideration Is required to avoid an unsafe and unsound business practice; or
2. Race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin or ancestry.
It is iVlegal to consider the racial, ethnic, reClgious or national origin composition of a neighborhood or
geographic area surrounding a housing accommodation or whether or not such composition is
undergoing change, or Is expected to undergo change, in appraising a housing accommodation or in
determining whether or not, or under what terms and conditions, to provide financial assistance.
These provisions govern financial assistance for the purpose of the purchase, construction,
rehabilitation or refinancing of a one-to-four unit family residence occupied by the owner and for the
Purpose of the home improvement of any one-to-four unit family residence.
Uwe received a copy of this notice.
(Applicant) (Data) (Co-Applicant) (Dale)
APPENDIX C REEP Application Fonn C g Z
APPENDIX D-LOAN AGREEMENT
City of Palm Springs
Residential Energy Efficiency Program
Loan Application Instructions
Please complete and sign the attached Application Form and include all requested
attachments. Please type or print neatly in blue or blank ink.
All applications are processed on a first-come,first-served basis, upon receipt, until funds are
depleted. Incomplete and/or incorrect applications cannot be processed. Resubmitted
applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis upon the new receipt date.
If there are insufficient funds available, an approved applicant will be placed on a waiting list.
Keep a copy of your completed Application and all documents submitted for your records.
Keep a copy of all receipts, paid invoices and home improvement contracts.
Mail or Deliver your completed Application and attachments to:
City of Palm Springs
Community and Economic Development Department
3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way
P. O. Box 2743
Palm Springs, CA 92263-2743
Attention: Marina Karas, REEP Program Administrator
For questions regarding the status of your Application call:
City of Palm Springs, Community and Economic Development Department
760-323-8264 or fax your request to 760-322-8325 Attention: Marina Karas
For information on home improvement contracts or the status of your contractor's license visit
www.cslb.ca.gov or call the Contractor's State License Board at 1-800-321-CSLB.
APPENDIX D REEP Loan Agreement Form D-9
n �
LOAN AGREEMENT
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
RESIDENTIAL ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAM (REEP)
This Loan Agreement ("Agreement'") is made and entered into as of this day of
—, by and between the CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, a California
municipal corporation ("City") and ("Borrower")-
RECITALS
A. City has established the Residential Energy Efficiency Program (the
"Program") pursuant to which City may extend loans to property owners to finance the
acquisition and installation on their property of certain qualifying renewable energy systems
and energy efficient equipment.The purpose and method of administration of the loans under
the Program are described in the Residential Energy Efficiency Program Report adopted by
the City Council on 2009, as it may be amended from time to time (the
'Report").
B. The Program is authorized by Chapter 29 of Part 3 of Division 7 of the
California Streets and Highways Code (the "Act").
C. Thie Borrower has submitted to the City that certain Palm Springs REEP
Program Loan Application dated , 200! , a copy of which is attached
hereto as Exhibit "A" and incorporated herein by this reference (the "Application"). The
Application describes, among otherthings, energy efficient equipment which is to be financed
with the proceeds of the loan described herein, and to be constructed. on or installed in the
property of Borrower described in Exhibit"B" attached hereto and incorporated herein by this
reference (the "Property"); and the City has approved the Application as provided in the
Report-
D. The Borrower wishes to participate in the Program by executing this Agreement
with the City and using the proceeds of the loan made by the City to the Borrower hereunderto
finance the acquisition and [construction] [installation] on the Property of the [energy efficiency
equipment] described in the Application(the"Equipment").The Equipment and its construction
on or installation in the Property is collectively referred to herein as the "Work".
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants contained herein and
other valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which is hereby acknowledged, the
parties agree as follows:
APPENDIX D REEP Loan Agreement Form D-10
2S
AGREEMENT
1. Loan Agreement.
(a) Subject to the conditions set forth herein, City agrees to extend a loan ("Loan")to
Borrower in the amount of up to Dollars
($ ) (the"Loan Amount"). Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained
herein, the Loan Amount shall not in any event exceed the actual cost of the Work. The Loan
Amount shall be adjusted, if necessary, prior to the first disbursement of the Loan Amount to
the Borrower and following the post-completion inspection by the City's Building Department
staff as described in Section 3 below, and shall be adjusted by the City Manager or his
designee(the "Director")to an amount equal to the actual cost of the Work. Any adjustment of
the Loan Amount by the Director shall be made on the basis of the best available written
evidence of the actual cost of the Work and in the exercise of the Director's reasonable
judgment. The Borrower shall be solely responsible for the payment of all cost of the Work
which exceeds the Loan Amount and Borrower agrees in any event to complete the Work and
to fund all costs associated with such completion which may be in excess of the Loan Amount.
This Agreement, togetherwith the Application, the Report and the documents and instruments
attached to or referenced in this Agreement and the Application are collectively referred to
herein as the "Loan Documents."
(b) The term of the Loan and this Agreement shall be ( ) years from the date
that the proceeds of the Loan are first disbursed to the Borrower.
(c) Interest shall accrue on the unpaid principal balance of the Loan Amount from
the date first disbursed to Borrower at the simple interest rate of seven percent (7%) per
annum. Interest shall be computed on the basis of a three hundred sixty (360) day year. If a
law which applies to the Loan and which sets maximum interest rates or loan charges is
interpreted by a court of competent jurisdiction in a manner as would cause the interest or
other loan charges collected orto be collected in connection with the Loan to exceed the limits
permitted by such laws, then: (i) any such interest or loan charge shall be reduced by the
amount necessary to reduce the interest or charge to the permitted limit; and (ii) any sums
already collected which exceed permitted limits will be refunded by the City. The City may
choose to make the refund by reducing the outstanding principal amount of the Loan or by
making a direct payment to the Borrower.
(d) The Borrower promises to pay to the City, without deduction or offset, the Loan
Amount and the interest accrued thereon as provided herein. The repayment of the Loan
Amount and interest accrued thereon shall be repaid by the Borrower to the City by the
payment of an assessment levied against the Property pursuant to Section 5898.30 of the
California Streets and Highway Code (the "Assessment"). In addition to the Assessment, the
Borrower promises to payto the City, without deduction oroffset, an annual assessment levied
against the Propertyto pay costs incurred by the Citywhich result from the administration and
collection of the Assessment orfrom the administration or registration of any associated bonds
or reserve or other related funds (the "Annual Administrative Assessment"). The Annual
Administrative Assessment shall not exceed Forty Dollars ($40.00) per year.
APPENDIX D REEP Loan Agreement Form D-11
V �i
(e) The Assessment and the Annual Administrative Assessment, and the interest
and any penalties thereon shall constitute a lien on the Property until they are paid. The
installments of the Assessment and the Annual Administrative Assessment(including principal
and interest) shall be collected on the property tax bill pertaining to the Property, and shall be
subject to the same penalties, remedies, and lien priorities as for property taxes in the event of
non-payment. The Borrower hereby expressly consents to the levy of the Assessment and the
Annual Administrative Assessment and the imposition of the lien on the Property as described
herein and in the Act.
(f) The amount of assessment installments that will be placed on the Property each
year is set forth in Exhibit "C attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference.
(g) The Assessment may be prepaid, in whole or in part, at any time upon the
payment of a premium in an amount equal to three percent (3%) of the amount of the
Assessment to be prepaid.
2. Use of Proceeds.
All proceeds of the Loan shall be used by Borrower for the sole purpose of paying for
the reasonable costs and expenses of the Work on the Property, and in connection therewith
the Borrower shall comply with all requirements set forth herein, in the Application and in the
Report.
3. Disbursement Procedures.
(a) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, the City shall have no
obligation to disburse the Loan Amount hereunder unless and until each of the following
conditions is satisfied, or any such condition is expressly waived by the Director:
(i) The receipt by the Director of a written certification from Borrower, and the
contractor(s), if any, that performed the Work, stating that the Work for which
disbursement is requested is complete, and the actual cost of such Work. Such
certification shall be in form and substance acceptable to the Director.
(ii) An inspection of the Work by the Building Department, and a
determination by the Director that the Work has been completed in full compliance with
the requirements of the Loan,Documents.
Oii) The receipt by the Director of such other documents and instruments as
the Director may require, including but not limited to, if applicable,the sworn statements
of contractor(s) and releases orwaivers of lien, all in compliance with the requirements
of applicable law.
(iv) Borrower has, as appropriate, executed and delivered to Directorthe Loan
Documents and such other documents or instruments pertaining to the Loan or the
Work as the Director may require.
APPENDIX D REEP Loan Agreement Form D-12
(v) As of the date of disbursement of the Loan Amount, the Director shall
have determined that the representations of the Borrower contained in the Loan
Documents are true and correct, and no Default (as defined in Section 12 below) shall
have occurred and be continuing.
(vi) No stop payment or mechanic's lien notice pertaining to the Work has
been served upon the City and remains in effect as of the date of disbursement of the
Loan Amount.
(vii) The City shall have received a title policy (the "Title Policy") in the Loan
Amount and insuring the Loan and the lien of the assessments described in Section
1(d) hereof. The Title Policy shall be in form and substance acceptable to the Director.
(b) Borrower will,within days of presentation bythe Director, execute any
and all documents or instruments required by the Loan Documents in connection with the
disbursement of the Loan Amount.
4. Reports.
Borrower agrees, upon the request of Director, to promptly deliver to the Director, or, if
appropriate, cause its contractor(s) to promptly deliver to Director, a written status report
regarding the Work.
5. Representations and Warranties of Borrower.
Borrower promises that each representation and warranty set forth below is true,
accurate and complete as of the date of this Agreement, and the date of disbursement of the
Loan Amount. The disbursement of the Loan Amount shall be deemed to be a reaffirmation by
the Borrower of each and every representation and warranty made by Borrower in this
Agreement.
(a) Formation Authority. If Borrower is anything other than a natural person, it has
complied with all laws and regulations concerning its organization, existence and the
transaction of its business, and is in good standing in each state in which it conducts its
business. Borrower is the owner of the Property and is authorized to execute, deliver and
perform its obligations under the Loan Documents, and all other documents and instruments
delivered by Borrower to the City in connection therewith. This Agreement and the Application
have been duly executed and delivered by Borrower and are valid and binding upon and
enforceable against the Borrower in accordance with their terms, and no consent or approval
of any third party, which has not been previously obtained by the Borrower, is required for the
Borrower's execution thereof or the performance of its obligations contained therein.
(b) Compliance with Law. Neither Borrower nor the Property is in violation of,
and the terms and provisions of the Loan Documents do not conflict with, any regulation or
ordinance, any order of any court or governmental entity, or any building restrictions or
governmental requirements affecting Borrower or the Property.
APPENDIX D REFP Loan Agreement Form D-13
2
(c) No Violation. The terms and provisions of the Loan Documents, the
execution and delivery of the Loan Documents by Borrower, and the performance by Borrower
of its obligations contained therein, will not and do not conflict with or result in a breach of or a
default under any of the terms or provisions of any other agreement, contract, covenant or
security instrument by which the Borrower or the Property is bound.
(d) Other Information. If Borrower is comprised of the trustees of a trust, the
foregoing representations shall also pertain to the trustor(s) of the trust. All reports,
documents, instruments, information and forms of evidence which have been delivered to City
concerning the Loan .are accurate, correct and sufficiently complete to give City true and
accurate knowledge of their subject matter.
(e) Lawsuits. There are no lawsuits, tax claims; actions, proceedings,
investigations or other disputes pending or threatened against Borrower which may impair
Borrower's ability to perform its obligations hereunder.
(f) No Event of Default. There is no event which is, or with notice or lapse of
time or both would be, a Default under this Agreement.
(g) Accuracy of Declarations. The declarations of the Borrower contained in
the Application are accurate, complete and true.
6. Borrower's Covenants.
Borrower promises to keep each of the following covenants:
(a) Completion of Work and Maintenance of Equipment. Borrower shall, or
shall cause its contractor to, promptly commence construction of the Work, and diligently
continue such Work to completion, in a good and workmanlike manner and in accordance with
sound construction and installation practices. Borrower shall maintain the Equipment in good
condition and repair.
(b) Compliance with Law and Agreements. In commencing and completing
the Work, Borrower shall comply with all existing and future laws, regulations, orders,
building-restrictions and requirements of, and all agreements with and commitments to, all
governmental,judicial and legal authorities having jurisdiction over the Property or the Work,
and with all recorded instruments, agreements, and covenants and restrictions affecting the
Property.
(c) Permits, Licenses and Approvals. Borrower shall properly obtain, comply
with and keep in effect all-permits, licenses and approvals which are required to be obtained
from any governmental authority in ',order to commence and complete the Work. Borrower,
upon the request of the Director, shall promptly deliver copies of all such permits, licenses and
approvals to the Director.
(d) Site Visits. Borrower grants City, its agents and representatives the right to
enter and visit the Property at any reasonable time, after giving reasonable notice to Borrower,
APPENDIX D REEP Loan Agreement Pon-o D-14
for the purposes of observing the Work. City will make reasonable efforts during any site visit
to avoid interfering with Borrower's use of the Property. Borrower shall also allow City to
examine and copy records and other documents of Borrower which relate to the Work. City is
under no duty to visit the Property, or observe any aspects of the Work, or examine any
records, and City shall not incur any obligation or liability by reason of not making any such
visit or examination. Any site visit, observation or examination by City shall be solely for the
purposes of protecting City's rights under the Loan Documents.
(e) Protection Against Lien Claims. Borrower shall promptly pay or otherwise
discharge any claims and liens for labor done and materials and services furnished to the
Property in connection with the Work. Borrower shall have the right to contest in good faith any
claim or lien, provided that it does so diligently and without delay in completing the Work.
(f) Insurance. Borrower shall provide, maintain and keep in force at all times
until the Work is completed, builder's all risk property damage insurance on the Property, with
a policy limit equal to the full replacement cost of the Work.
(h) Notices. Borrower shall promptly notify City in writing of any Default under
this Agreement, or any event which, with notice or lapse of time or both, would constitute a
default hereunder.
7. Completion of the Work.
Subject to Section 12(h), Borrower agrees to complete the Work on or before
, 20
8. Mechanic's Lien and Sty Notices.
In the event of the filing of a stop notice or the recording of a mechanic's lien pursuant
to applicable law of the State of California and relating to the Work. Director may summarily
refuse to make any disbursement of the Loan Amount, and in the event Borrower fails to
furnish Director a bond causing such notice or lien to be released within ten(10)days of notice
from Director to do so, such failure shall at the option of City constitute a Default under the
terms of this Agreement. Borrower shall promptly deliver to Director copies of all such notices
or liens.
9. Indemnification.
(a) Borrower shall indemnify, defend, protect, and hold harmless the City and
any and all agents, employees, attorneys and representatives of the City(collectively,the"City
Parties"), from and against all losses, liabilities, claims, damages (including consequential
damages), penalties, fines, forfeitures, costs and expenses (including all reasonable
out-of-pocket litigation costs and reasonable attorney's fees) and any demands of any nature
whatsoever related directly or indirectly to, or arising out of or in connection with, (i)the Loan
Documents, (ii) the disbursement of the Loan Amount, (iii) the Work, (iv) the Equipment, (v)
any breach or Default by Borrower under the Loan Documents, (vi) the Assessment and the
Annual Administrative Assessment, and (vii) any other fact, circumstance or event related to
APPENDIX D REEP Loan Agreement Form D-15
City"s extension and disbursement of the Loan to Borrower or Borrower's performance of its
obligations under the Loan Documents (collectively, the "Liabilities"), regardless of whether
such Liabilities shall accrue or are discovered before or after the disbursement of the Loan
Amount.
(b) The indemnity obligations described in this Section 9 shall survive the
disbursement of the Loan Amount, the repayment of the Loan, the transfer or sale of.the
Property by the Borrower, and the termination of this Agreement.
10. Wavier of Claims.
For and in consideration of the City's execution and delivery of this Agreement,
Borrower, for itself and for its successors-in-interest to the Property and for any one claiming
by, through, or under the Borrower,! hereby waives the right to recover from and fully and
irrevocably releases the City Parties from any and all claims, obligations, liabilities, causes of
action, or damages, including attorneys'fees and court costs, that Borrower may now have or
hereafter acquire against any of the ;City Parties and accruing from or related to (i) the Loan
Documents, (ii)the disbursement of the Loan Amount, (iii)the performance of the Work, (iv)
the Equipment, (v) any damage to or diminution in value of the Property that may result from
the Work, (vi) any personal injury or death that may result from the Work, (vi)the selection of
manufacturer(s), dealer(s), suppliers), contractor(s) and/or installer(s), and their action or
inaction with respect to the Work or the Equipment, (vii) the merchantability- and fitness for
any particular purpose, use or application of the Equipment, (vii)the amount of energy savings
resulting from the Work and the Equipment, (ix)the workmanship of any third parties, and (x)
any other matter with respect to the Program. This release includes claims, obligations,
liabilities, causes of action, and damages of which Borrower is not presently aware or which
Borrower does not suspect to exist which, if known by Borrower, would materially affect
Borrower's release of the City Parties.
BORROWER HEREBY ACKNOWLEDGES THAT IT HAS READ AND IS FAMILIAR
WITH THE PROVISIONS OF CALIFORNIA CIVIL CODE SECTION 1542("SECTION 1542"),
WHICH IS SET FORTH BELOW:
"A GENERAL RELEASE DOES NOT EXTEND TO CLAIMS WHICH THE CREDITOR
DOES NOT KNOW OR SUSPECT TO EXIST IN HIS OR HER FAVOR AT THE TIME OF
EXECUTING THE RELEASE, WHICH IF KNOWN BY HIM OR HER MUST HAVE
MATERIALLY AFFECTED HIS OR HER SETTLEMENT WITH THE DEBTOR."
APPENDIX D REEP Loan Agreement Form D-1 G
�1
u
BY INITIALING BELOW, BORROWER HEREBY WAIVES THE PROVISIONS OF
SECTION 1542 SOLELY IN CONNECTION WITH THE MATTERS WHICH ARE THE
SUBJECT OF THE FOREGOING WAIVERS AND RELEASES.
Borrowers Initials
The waivers and releases by Borrower contained in this Section 10 shall survive the
disbursement of the Loan Amount, the repayment of the Loan, the transfer or sale of the
Property by the Borrower, and the termination of this Agreement.
11, Further Assurances.
The Borrower shall execute any further documents or instruments consistent with the
terms of this Agreement, including documents and instruments in recordable form, as City
shall from time to time find necessary or appropriate to effectuate its purposes in entering into
this Agreement and making the Loan.
12. Events of Default.
(a) Subject to the further provisions of this Section 12, the failure of any
representation or warranty of the Borrower contained herein to be correct in all material
respects, or the failure or delay by Borrower to perform any of its obligations under the terms
or provisions of the Loan Documents, shall constitute a default hereunder ("Default")- The
Borrower must immediately commence to cure, correct, or remedy such failure or delay and
shall complete such cure, correction or remedy with reasonable diligence, but in any event,
within the time set forth in Sections 12(c) and (d) below, as applicable.
(b) The City shall give written notice of default to Borrower, specifying the
default complained of by the City. Delay in giving such notice shall not constitute a waiver of
any default nor shall it change the time of default.
(c) If a monetary event of default occurs, prior to exercising any remedies
under the Loan Documents or the Act, City shall give Borrower written notice of such default.
Borrower shall have a period of thirty(30) days after such notice is given within which to cure
the default prior to exercise of remedies by City.
(d) If a non-monetary event of default occurs, prior to exercising any remedies
under the Loan Documents or the Act, City shall give Borrower notice of such default. If the
default is reasonably capable of being cured within thirty(30) days, Borrower shall have such
period to effect a cure prior to exercise of remedies by City under the Loan Documents or the
Act. If the default is such that it is reasonably capable of being cured, but not within such thirty
(30) day period, and Borrower (i) initiates corrective action within such thirty(30) day period,
and (ii)diligently, continually, and in good faith works to effect a cure as soon as possible,then
Borrower shall have such additional time as is reasonably necessary to cure the default prior
to exercise of any remedies by City. However, in no event shall City be precluded from
exercising remedies if its security becomes or is about to become materially jeopardized by
any failure to cure a default, or if the default is not cured within one hundred and twenty(120)
APPENDIX D REEP Loan Agreement Fonn D-17
b
days after the first notice of default is given-
(e) If any Default occurs, then, upon the election of City, (i) if there has been
no disbursement of the Loan Amount,this Agreement shall terminate and, except as otherwise
expressly provided herein, the parties have no further obligations or rights hereunder, or(ii) if
the Loan Amount has been disbursed in whole or in part, City may terminate its obligations to
make any further disbursement of the Loan Amount and. exercise any or all of the rights and
remedies available to it under applicable law, at equity or as otherwise provided herein.
(f) Any and all costs and expenses incurred by the City in pursuing its
remedies hereunder shall be additional indebtedness of the Borrower to the City hereunder,
and shall be secured as provided in the Act.
(g) Except as otherwise expressly stated in this Agreement, the rights and
remedies of the City are cumulative, and the exercise of one or more of such rights or
remedies shall not preclude the exercise bythe City, at the same time or different times, of any
other rights or remedies for the same Default or any other Default. No failure or delay by City
in asserting any of its rights and remedies as to any Default shall operate as a waiver of any
Default or of any such rights or remedies, or deprive the City of its rights to institute and
maintain any actions or proceedings,which it may deem necessary to protect, assert or enforce
any such rights or remedies.
(h) Performance of the covenants and conditions imposed upon Borrower
hereunder with respect to the commencement and completion of the Work shall be excused
while and to the extent that, Borrower is prevented from complying therewith by war, riots,
strikes, lockouts, action of the elements, accidents, or acts of God beyond the reasonable
control of the Borrower; provided, however, that such event is not caused by the fault,
negligence or misconduct of Borrower; and provided, further, as soon as the cause or event
preventing compliance is removed or ceases to exist the obligations shall be restored to full
force and effect and Borrower shall immediately resume compliance therewith and
performance thereof.
13. Compliance with Local State and Federal Laws.
Borrower shall perform the Work, or cause the Workto be performed, in conformitywith
all applicable laws, including all applicable federal, state and local occupation, safety and
health laws, rules, regulations and standards. Borrower agrees to indemnify, defend and hold
the City Parties harmless from and against any cost, expense, claim, charge or liability relating
to or arising directly or indirectly from any breach by or failure of Borrower or its contractor(s)
or agents to comply with such laws, rules or regulations. The indemnification obligations
described in this Section 13 shall survive the disbursement of the Loan Amount, the
repayment of the Loan, and the termination of this Agreement.
APPENDIX D REEP Loan Agreement Form D-18
14. Severability.
Each and every provision of this Agreement is, and shall be construed to be, a separate
and independent covenant and agreement. If any term or provision of this Agreement or the
application thereof shall to any extent be held to be invalid or unenforceable, the remainder of
this Agreement, or the application of such term or provision to circumstances other than those
to which it is invalid or unenforceable, shall not be affected thereby, and each term and
provision of this Agreement shall be valid and shall be enforced to the extent permitted by law.
15. Notices.
All notices and demands shall be given in writing by certified mail, postage prepaid, and
return receipt requested, or by personal delivery(by recognized courier service or otherwise).
Notices shall be considered given upon the earlier of (a) personal delivery or (b) two (2)
business days following deposit in the United..States -mail, postage prepaid, certified or
registered, return receipt requested. Notices shall be addressed as provided below for the
respective party; provided that if any party gives notice in writing of a change of name or
address, notices to such party shall thereafter be given as demanded in that notice:
To City: City of Palm Springs
3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way
P- O- Box 2743
Palm Springs, California 92263-2743
Attention: Residential Energy Efficiency Program Director
Community and Economic Development Dept.
To Borrower:
Palm Springs, California 9226_
Attention:
16. Attorneys' Fees and Costs.
In the event that any action is instituted to enforce payment or performance under this
Agreement, the parties agree that the non-prevailing party shall be responsible for and shall
pay all costs and all attorneys' fees incurred by the prevailing party in enforcing this
Agreement.
17. No Waiver.
No disbursement of the Loan Amount shall constitute a waiver of any conditions to the
City's obligation to make further disbursements nor, in the event Borrower is unable to satisfy
any such conditions, shall any such waiver have the effect of precluding the City from
thereafter declaring such inability to constitute a Default under this Agreement. No
disbursement of the Loan Amount based upon inadequate or incorrect information shall
APPENDIX D REEP Loan Agrecment Form D-19
constitute a waiver of the right of City to receive a refund thereof from Borrower.
18. Governing Law.
This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of California. Any legal
action brought under this Agreement must be instituted in the Superior Court of the County of
Riverside, State of California, or in an appropriate municipal court in that County or in the
United States District Court for the Central District of California.
19. Amendment of A rp eement.
No modification, rescission, waiver, release or amendment of any provision of this
Agreement shall be made except by'a written agreement executed by the Borrower and City.
20. City May Assign: Role of the City.
City, at its option, may (i) assign any or all of its rights and obligations under the Loan
and this Agreement, and (ii) pledge and assign its right to receive the Assessment,the Annual
Administrative Assessment, and the repayment of the Loan and any other payments due to
the City hereunder, without obtaining the consent of the Borrower.
21, Borrower Assignment Prohibited.
In no event shall Borrower ',assign or transfer any portion of this Agreement or
Borrower's rights orobiligations underthe Agreement without the priorexpress written consent
of City, which consent may be granted or withheld in the sole and absolute discretion of the
City.
22. Relationship of Borrower and City.
The relationship of, Borrower and City pursuant to this Agreement is that of debtor and
creditor and shall not be or be construed to be a joint venture, equity venture, partnership, or
other relationship.
23. General.
Time is of the essence of this Agreement and of each and every provision hereof. This
Agreement, together with the other Loan Documents, constitutes the entire agreement
between the parties hereto, and there shall be no other agreement regarding the subject
matter thereof unless signed in writing by the part to be charged. If there is more than one
"Borrower," the obligations hereunder of all Borrowers shall be joint and several.
APPENDIX D REEP Loan Agreement Form � D-20
24. Counterparts.
This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be
deemed an original, and all of such counterparts together shall constitute one and the same
instrument.
25. Special Termination.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, this Agreement shall
terminate and be of no further force or effect If the Borrower has submitted to the Director a
notice of its decision to cancel this transaction on or priorto the date and time described in the
Notice of Right to Cancel which was delivered to the Borrower upon its execution of this
Agreement.
26. No Third Party Beneficiary Riclhts.
This Agreement is entered into forthe sole benefit of Borrower and City and, subject to
the provisions of Sections 9, 10 and 20, no other parties are intended to be direct or incidental
beneficiaries of this Agreement and no third party shall have any right in, under or to this
agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Borrower and City have entered into this Agreement as of the
date and year first above written.
Borrower: City:
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, a California
municipal corporation
By.
Name:
Date of Execution by Borrower:
Title:
200
ATTEST:
APPENDIX D REEP Loan Agreement Form D-21
STATE OF CALIFORNIA }55.
COUNTY OF }
On before me, —, a
notary public, personally appeared who proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to
be the person(s)whose name(s) is/are subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged
to me that he/she/they executed the same in his/her/their authorized capacity(ies), and that by
his/her/their signature(s)on the instrument the person(s)or the entity upon behalf of which the
person(s) acted, executed the instrument.
I certify under PENALTY OF PERJURY under the laws of the State of California that the
foregoing paragraph is true and correct.
WITNESS my hand and official seal.
Signature
STATE OF CALIFORNIA }ss.
COUNTY OF }
On before me, a
notary public, personally appeared who proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to
be the person(s)whose name(s) is/are subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged
to me that he/she/they executed the same in his/her/their authorized capacity(ies), and that by
his/her/their signature(s)on the instrument the person(s)or the entity upon behalf of which the
person(s) acted, executed the instrument.
I certify under PENALTY OF PERJURY under the laws of the State of California that the
foregoing paragraph is true and correct.
WITNESS my hand and official seal;
Signature
APPENDIX D REEP Loan Agreement Form D-22
EXHIBIT "A"
(ATTACH COPY OF EXECUTED AND APPROVED APPLICATION
APPENDIX D REEP Loan Agreemcnt Form D-23
12
EXHIBIT "B"
DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY
APPENDIX D REEP Loan Agreement Form D-24
EXHIBIT "C"
SCHEDULE OF ASSESSMENT INSTALLMENTS
Year Principal Interest Maximum Annual Total
Administrative
Assessment
(To be provided)
APPENDIX D AEEP Loan Agreement Fonn D-25
APPENDIX E
PALM SPRINGS
RESIDENTIAL ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAM
SUMMARY OF LOAN PROGRAM PROCESS
Project Scoping
The first step in the loan process is project scoping. Property owners can work directly with
contractors to determine the scope of a project. Property owners can also schedule a meeting
with Community and Economic Development staff to discuss proposed energy improvements
and to get no cost and objective assistance with planning for those energy improvements.
Property owners will also receive a no-cost, on-site energy survey. The energy survey is
intended to guide property owners in determining their most effective means for REEP
participation.
As the project is defined, the property owner obtains bids from 3 contractors and determines
the cost of improvements based on the lowest viable bid. Table E-1 illustrates the detailed
steps to be taken under the program and Table E-2 illustrates the Application Scoring Sheet to
be used by staff to rate each application in terms of the City's energy efficiency priorities.
While applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis, the scoring sheet will
be used in the event that there is overwhelming response to the program and a means to
prioritize the applications is needed.
Program Application
The property owner calls, emails or'visits staff at the City of Palm Springs, Community and
Economic Development Department to request a REEP application form (the "Application").
The staff will provide an Application by hard copy, email,facsimile, orweb link as requested by
the property owner. ,Applications and instructions are available online at the City of Palm
Springs web site.
The property owner submits the Application together with its required attachments to the City
of Palm Springs. Program administration staff determines whether each Application is
complete within 15 business days of receipt of the Application. The program administrator will
notify the property/ owner if the Application is complete, incomplete or denied by U. S. Mail,
and additionally by phone, facsimile, or email if requested by the property owner.
Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are no longer
available.
Title and Credit Report Check
The program administrator will verify that the applicant is the property ownerthrough a City of
Palm Springs contract with a nationally-recognized title company. This contract will provide for
expedited title checks for REEP participants. The title company will provide a copy of the
APPENDLX E Summary of Loan Program Process E-1
vesting deed for the property prior to the administrator's approval of the Application and the
administrator will also obtain a title insurance policy for the amount of the loan.
In addition, a credit check of all individuals named on the mortgage, if applicable, will be run to
confirm that the mortgage is current and property is not in default or at risk of foreclosure.
Application Review
During the Application Review process, the program administrator verifies that:
1. The application is complete and accurate;
2. The property owner(s) owns the subject property;
3. The subject property is developed and located within the City of Palm Springs;
4. The subject property is not exempt from ad valorem property taxes;
5. The property owner(s) is/are current in the payment of ad valorem property taxes for
the subject property;
6. The property owner(s) is/are current in the payment of any mortgages or liens on the
property and are not currently in default, foreclosure or bankruptcy proceedings;
7. The proposed energy efficiency improvements and costs are eligible to be financed
under the Program. If the proposed energy efficiency improvements are part of a
project that includes new construction (e.g. room addition), the costs of the work have
been properly allocated between retrofitting and new construction;
8. Three bids from licensed contractors have been obtained and the cost estimates are
reasonable; -
9. The proposed contractor(s) is/are licensed by the State of California and is/are in good
standing with the Contractors State Licensing Board;
10.The requested loan amount (including contingency) is equal to or greater than $5,000
and is less than or equal to $25,000;
11.REEP funding is available.
Within 15 business days of receipt of an application, the program administrator(PA) notifies
the property owner if the application is incomplete, approved or denied.
a Incomplete. An application shall be deemed incomplete if it is missing any information
or attachments the property owner is required to provide. Incomplete applications may
be resubmitted. The PA will process resubmitted applications on a first-come, first-
served basis based upon the new receipt date.
b. Approved. An application shall be deemed approved if the PA has verified all of the
items in Steps 1 through 11.
c. Denied. An application shall be deemed denied if the PA cannot verify any of the items
in steps 1 through 11. A property owner may request a written statement of specific
reasons for the denial within 60 business days of the date of notification of denial. In
such case, the PA will provide such a statement to the property owner within 15
business days of receipt of a request for a statement. Denied applications may be
resubmitted. The PA will process resubmitted applications on a first-come,first-served
basis based upon the new receipt date. If an application is denied on the sole basis
APPENDIX E Swnrnary of Loan Program Process E-2
that REEP fundling is not available, the application does not need to be resubmitted;
applicants will be placed on awaiting list based on the date of application receipt.
Loan Contract and Reservation
Within 10 business days of notification that an Application has been approved, the Program
Director, on behalf of the City, will enter into a contractual assessment agreement (the "Loan
Contract") with the property owner. This will assure the property owner that the REEP Loan
has been approved and that funds are reserved for the property owner's approved project.
Failure of the property ownerto execute a Loan Contract within such 10-day period will require
the Application to be resubmitted. The PA will process resubmitted applications on a first-
come, first-served basis based upon the new receipt date.
Upon execution of a Loan Contract, the City records an assessment lien against the subject
property in the City offices and the County Recorder's office.
A 10% contingency will be included in the Loan Contract to reserve additional funds for the
property owner to draw against if needed in the case of change orders. A copy of the draft
Loan Contract is included in Appendix D of this Report.
Installation of Improvements
Property owner enters into a contractual arrangement directly with a contractor for Energy
Efficiency Improvements. All work is,subject to the City's Building Department permitting and
inspections and all other applicable federal state and local laws and regulations. All work must
be completed within 180 days of execution of the Loan Contract.
Progress Payments
If the maximum loan amount is $20,000 or greater, the property owner may request in writing
that the PA make a progress payment prior to the completion of the work. The PA shall make
the progress payment: within 10 business days of receipt of the request provided all of the
following conditions have been met:
• At least 75 percent of the required materials have been delivered to the property and
have been reasonably secured. The PA has the discretion to make its own
determination with respect to whether this condition has been satisfied; and
• The requested progress payment does not exceed 50 percent of the maximum loan
amount.
Final Inspections
The Property owner notifies the PA that all work has been completed. The PA reserves the
right to inspect the completed work within five business days of receipt of notification that the
work has been completed. i
APPENDIX E Summary of Loan Program Process E-3
�,
P�
Based on satisfactory project completion, the PA disburses loan funds to the property owner
within 10 business days of the completion of the inspection. The total amount of funds to be
disbursed shall not exceed the lesser of (i) the maximum loan amount provided in the loan
agreement(less the property owner's share of the title costs if not paid in cash by the property
owner) or(ii) the actual costs.
Property Tax Rolls
The City staff sends a database of assessment installments to the Riverside County Assessor
for collection of the assessment on the property tax roll. The Notice of Assessment Form is
shown in Exhibit E-1
APPENDIX E Summary of Loan Program Process E-4
�5
TABLE E-1
PALM SPRINGS RESIDENTIAL ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAM
PROGRAM PROCESS
Step What the Acting Parties(Staff, Action Done or Outcome/
Applicant Energy Auditor, Decision Made Next Step
Does Contractor)
1
Submit REEP Community& Applicant is preliminarily Energy Auditor(EA)
Application and Economic Development qualified; if not, need to resubmit schedules appointment
required (CED).staff pre-screens required paperwork to conduct Energy
attachments application for proof of Survey
ownership, occupancy,
signed releases
2 Be home for EA EA to do detailed work Energy survey report
detailed description and cost estimate completed by EA/submit
inspection to CEO staff
3 Submit EnergyOwner, CED Staff Staff packages loan a g pp,work Staff processes its
Survey by EA write-up, cost estimate portion of the loan
application
4 CED Staff City staff completes credit check If title and credit clear,
(for mortgage default)and title staff notifies Owner of
search approval
5 CED Staff Staff notifies owner of approval Owner requests
of Program Application Contractors bids
6 Owner requests Owner, Contractor, CED staff will review bids and Choose Contractor and
bids from 3 CED Staff work with homeowner on execute agreement
Contractors selection of lowest qualified between Owner and
bidder Contractor
7 Execute Owner, Contractor Owner or Contractor to provide Staff reviews contract
Standard Work City staff with copy of signed and includes in Loan
Contract work contract Agreement documents
8 Execute Loan Owner, City Loan Agreement between City Owner informed of
Agreement and Owner/Applicant for Energy approval to authorize
Efficiency Improvements is contractor to proceed
executed
9 City, CED staff,finance City to sot up fund control Account ready for
staff account advancing progress
payments
10 Contractor Obtains necessary permits and Owner and contractor
performs work, notify CED staff of
completion of work
11 Notify CED stafr Contractor, owner Performs final inspection and Project completed,
of work signs off on completed work covenants recorded,
completion contractor paid
APPENDIX E Summary of Loan Program Process E-5
Step What the Acting Parties(Staff, Action Done or Outcome/
Applicant Energy Auditor, Decision Made Next Step
Does Contractor)
12 Building Department, Submit invoices to City CED staff arrange for
CED staff inspection by Building
Department
13 Owner submits Owner, CED staff CED staff records data for
follow up data verification of savings by various program complete for
(energy and energy efficiency measures and spedfc application
gas bills)for 12 to help with future phases of the
months program
following
completion of
work
APPENDIX E &mimary of Loan Program Process E-6
TABLE E-2
PALM SPRINGS RESIDENTIAL ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAM
Single Family Home Program
Application Scoring Sheet
Scope of Work. Based on the assessment of the Energy Auditor, does the home
require improvements in any of the following?
Air Conditioning 1 2 3 4 5
No Some Yes
Caulking and Weather Stripping 1 2 3 4 5
No Some Yes
Ducts 1 2 3 4 5
No Some Yes
Heating System 1 2 3 4 5
No Some Yes
Conservation Devices 1 2 3 4 5
No Some Yes
Insulation 1 2 3 4 5
No Some Yes
Landscaping for Energy Efficiency 1 2 3 4 5
No Some Yes
Lighting 1 2 3 4 5
No Some Yes
Ventilation 1 2 3 4 5
No Some Yes
Water Keating 1 2 3 4 5
No Some Yes
Windows 1 2 3 4 5
No Some Yes
Pool Equipment 1 2 3 4 5
No Some Yes
What is the age of the house? 0 3 4 15
0-10 11-20 20-30 30+
years years years years
Does the borrower own other property(ies)? 0 1 5
Many One No
Final Score
APPENDIX E Summary of Loan Program Process E-7
EXHIBIT E-1
RECORDING REQUESTED BY AND
AFTER RECORDATION RETURN TO:
City Clerk
City of Palm Springs
3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way
P. 0. Box 2743
Palm Springs, CA 02263-2743
No Recording Fee Required —Gov't Code Sec. 6103
NOTICE OF ASSESSMENT
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
RESIDENTIAL ENERGY EFFICIENCY LOAN PROGRAM
On , 2009, the City Council (the "City Council") of the City of Palm
Springs, State of California (the"City") adopted its Resolution No. (the "Resolution")
whereby the City Council approved the report (the "Report") prepared by the Director of
in accordance with Section 5898.22 of Chapter 29 of Part 3 of
Division 7 of the California Streets and Highways Code (the"Act"), established the Residential
Energy Efficiency Program ("Program") to be implemented as provided in the Report, and
confirmed contractual assessments to be levied against parcels within the City within the
parameters of the Report to finance certain energy efficiency improvements (the
"Improvements") through the use of contractual assessments.
Pursuant to the Act, the Resolution, and the Report, the City and the record owner(s) (the
"Record Owners") of the Property (defined below) have entered into a loan agreement
pursuant to the Program entitled "Loan Agreement, City of Palm Springs Residential Energy
Efficiency Program" and dated as of I (the "Loan
Agreement"). Pursuant to the Loan Agreement, the City is extending a loan in the principal
amount of up to $ (the "Loan") to the Record Owners of the property to
finance the acquisition and installation and/or construction on such property of the
Improvements. Pursuant to the Loan Agreement, the Record Owners promise to pay the City,
without deduction or offset, the Loan and the interest accrued thereon as provided therein.
Pursuant to the Loan Agreement, the repayment of the Loan and interest accrued thereon
shall be repaid by the Record Owners to the City by the payment of an assessment levied
against the Property pursuant to Section 5898.30 of the Act(the "Assessment"). In addition,
so long as the Assessment is unpaid, the Record Owners promise to pay the City, without
deduction or offset, an annual assessment levied againstthe Property to pay costs incurred by
the City which result from the administration and collection of the Assessment or from the
administration or registration of any associated bonds or reserve or other related funds (the
"Annual Administrative Assessment"). The Annual Administrative Assessment shall not
exceed Forty Dollars ($40.00) per year.
APPENDIX E Summary of Loan Program Process E-8
w �
Pursuant to the requirements of California Streets and Highways Code Section 3114, the
undersigned City Clerk of the City hereby gives notice that the Loan Agreement, a diagram,
the Assessment and the Annual Administrative Assessment were recorded and filed in the
Office of the City Clerk, 3200 E- Tahquitz Canyon Way, P. O- Box 2743, Palm Springs, CA
92263-2743 (the"City Clerk")and relating to certain property, being the real property described
on Exhibit "A" to this Notice, attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference (the
"Property"). The name(s) of the Record Owners of the Property are shown on Exhibit "B° to
this Notice, attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference.
Notice is further given upon recording of this Notice in the office of the County Recorder of the
County of Riverside; the Assessment assessed on the Property shall become a lien upon the
Property. In addition, the installments of the Assessment(including principal and interest)and
the Annual Administrative Assessment shall become a lien each year and shall be collected on
the property tax bill pertaining to the Property, and shall be subject to the same penalties,
remedies, and lien priorities as for property taxes in the event of non-payment.
Reference is hereby made to the assl'essment diagram and the assessment roll recorded in the
Office of the City Clerk. Reference is hereby further made to the Loan Agreement on file in the
Office of the City Clerk for the terms of the Loan and Loan Agreement, including the interest
rate and the prepayment penalty- Pursuant to the Loan Agreement, the principal amount of
the Loan may be adjusted, but will not exceed the amount set forth above.
Dated: 200
James Thompson
City Clerk
City of Palm Springs
APPENDIX E Summary of Loan Program Process E-9
3
Residential Energy Efficiency
Guidebook
;QF p A lM S'04
IFWL
iy
� e
U N
City of Palm Springs
Department of Community & Economic Development
March 5, 2009
This Guidebook is largely adapted from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources website.
REEF Guidebook 1
Air Conditioning
The biggest sources of unwanted summer heat in homes are windows and walls(20 to 30 percent),internal gains
from appliances and lights (15 to 25 percent), and through the roof (10 to 20 percent). On humid days, damp
outside air leaking into the house can also increase cooling load significantly.
Efficiency
Air conditioners are rated by their efficiency levels, Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER - commonly
pronounced SEAR). Ratings are shown on a yellow tag for room air conditioners and on fact sheets for central
units.The SEER is the seasonal cooling output in BTUs divided by the seasonal energy input in watt hours for an
average U.S.climate. It takes into account the time the unit is not running.The higher the figure the better.A unit
with a SEER of 12.0 costs half as much to operate as one with a SEER of 6.0.The higher initial cost of the higher
SEER unit is normally paid back within a few years, making the more efficient equipment less expensive in the
long run.
The Energy Policy Act of 1992 requires that central air conditioners manufactured after January 1994 attain at
least a SEER of 10.
The ratings refer only to operating efficiency, or cost to operate, and have nothing to do with capacity, which is
rated in Btus/hr.The Btus/hr figure indicates how much heat the air conditioner can remove from a room or house
in an hour. Sometimes a tonnage figure is used instead of t3tus/hr. One ton of air conditioning is the same as
12,000 Btus/hr.
Window Units Vs. Central Units
The buyer must make a basic decision-whether to use window units or a central system.Both have advantages.
The big plus for window units is that they allow for zoned cooling.This can save substantial amounts of electricity
and money_Also,the actual purchase price of a window unit is less than that of a central unit;however,you will not
have the convenience or comfort of whole-house cooling. The window units are also noisier because the
compressor is in the unit within the living space. However, window units can be installed through a wall in an
enclosed space and ducted to one or two rooms.
Central units provide whole-house air conditioning, which may be desirable if many rooms are used on a fairly
constant basis, or it may simply be the choice of the homeowner.Central units,with their larger size and capacity,
cost more to buy, install and run.
When replacing a condenser(outside unit),the evaporator coil(inside the house at the air handler)should also be
replaced. If this is not done, the air conditioner will not have its high efficiency.
Sizing
If you are installing or replacing a central unit,your contractor will perform the sizing calculations based on the size
of the house, window exposure and orientation, construction materials, levels of insulation, air infiltration and
lifestyle. In the past, it was standard pmctice'to oversize the air conditioner by 10 percent to 50 percent. However,
some researchers now believe that air conditioning systems undersized by 10 percent are more efficient and more
effective in removing humidity. It is important not to oversize because such a unit, although it will cool the air,will
not run for long enough periods to reduce the indoor humidity to a comfortable level. You may feel cool and
clammy rather than cool and dry, a real comfort consideration in monsoon weather. Undersized air conditioning
systems will also have lower first costs and longer equipment life due to less cycling.
Dehumidification I _
Air conditioners remove moisture from the air by condensing water vapor as the air passes over cold coils.Water
vapor condenses in the same way moisture from the air condenses on a glass of ice water on a hot, humid day.
Lowering the humidity makes you feel more comfortable, but it takes more energy,which reduces the efficiency of
the air conditioner. One of the ways manufacturers have boosted air conditioner efficiency is by keeping the
BEEP Guidebook 2
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condenser coils somewhat warmer,which reduces condensation.Some of the new high-efficiency air conditioners
do not dehumidify as effectively. Humidity can be reduced by including variable-speed or multi-speed blowers.
Although there is no industry standard for rating the effectiveness of removing moisture, most literature does list
water removal in pints per hour, which will help you compare one model to another. Some models have the flan
speed controlled by a humidistat.
Placement and Maintenance
If possible, locate an outside compressor unit on the north side of the house. If that is not possible,try to position
the compressor where it will be shaded as much as possible. Window units may not allow you the choice.
Outside compressors should be kept clean of leaves, twigs and grass cuttings so the compressor doesn't
overheat.Maw grass so that cuttings are discharged awayfrom the compressor unit,or brush or spraythe cuttings
off the compressor unit with a broom or a water hose.
For general seasonal maintenance,check the instruction manual.With central and window units,change thefilters
as often as once a month during the summer. Filters are inexpensive for whattheygive you-clean air,free of dust
and pollen - and for what they do for the air conditioner - removing dirt or grit that wears out the moving parts
prematurely, and producing a clear air flow for more efficient operation.
Operating Hints
When setting your thermostat, don't set the temperature colder than you want in hopes it will get cooler faster-it
won't.
Experiment a bit to determine the highest temperature setting at which you can be comfortable.Try 780F to start.
Every degree higher will save about 4 percent in operating costs.
One way to be comfortable with higher settings is to run small fans that blow directly on your body.
If you have a whole-housing fan(attic fan),you can save substantially on your electric bill by using the fan at night
when weather conditions permit-usually when the outside temperature falls below 780F, and the humidity is not
oppressive. But early in the morning, before the temperature begins to rise,turn off the fan and close the windows
to capture the cool air. With this charge of cool air, the house Can "coast" without the air conditioner until late
morning or early afternoon. (The whole-house fan should be insulated over if it is not used during the air
conditioning season.)
Caulking and Weatherstripping
Caulking is an easy, energy-saving project you can do yourself. It is relatively inexpensive-and very effective. In
fact, it will usually pay for itself in energy savings within one year.
Caulking is a compound used for filling cracks, holes,crevices and joints on both the inside of your home.You will
need only a few simple tools and a minimum of skill to caulk these areas.Start at the back of your house and work
toward the front so that your skill level is improved by the time you caulk places that are visible.
Try to choose a mild day to tackle this project.The outside temperature should be above 40OF for the caulk to be
applied correctly.So, plan to caulk during the spring,summer or fall for best results. Old,cracked caulk should be
removed before new is applied. Check your home repair center for a "puttying tool"that will make the job easier
and provide a more professional look.
Where to Caulk
As a general rule,caulk should be applied wherever two different building materials meet on the interior or exterior
of you home. Different building materials expand and contract at various rates. Through the years, with
temperature extremes and caulk drying out, cracks develop between materials. Because these cracks allow air
infiltration, the cracks need to be caulked.
REEF Guidebook 3
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r home you can check for air leakage b moving On the interior of you , Y 9our hand around the windows and doors y 9 Y
on a windy day. If you can feel air movement,you need to caulk and/or weatherstrip.You will probably be surprised
to find how many spots are "air Ieakersl"
The following are areas that should be checked:
Around door and window frames - inside and out; check window pane putty.
Places where brick and wood siding meet.
Joints between the chimney and siding.
Between the foundation and walls.
Around mail chutes.
Around electrical and gas service entrances, cable T.V. and phone lines, and outdoor water faucets.
Where dryer vents pass through walls.
Cracks in bricks, siding, stucco and'foundation.
Around air conditioners.
Around vents and fans.
Wherever two different materials meet.
The material used in sealing air leaks depends on the size of the gaps and where they are located.Caulk is best
for cracks and gaps less than 1/4"wide. Expanding foam sealant is good for sealing larger cracks and holes that
are protected from sunlight and moisture. Rigid foam insulation may be used for very large openings such as
plumbing chases and attic hatch covers. Fiberglass insulation can also be used for sealing large holes, but it
needs to be wrapped in plastic or stuffed in plastic bags because air can leak through fiberglass.
Ducts
Ductwork can be a source of energy loss, too. Leaky ducts are a serious problem in homes that use forced-air
heating and air conditioning. Distribution losses amount to 5 percent to 30 percent of the fuel consumed.
Typical systems with unsealed or uninsulated sheet metal ducts that run through attics or crawl spaces can lose up
to 40%of the heating or cooling energy that passes through them.The energy can be lost by simple conduction
through inadequately insulated sheet metal ducts. It can also be lost through holes or leaks in seams that have not
been properly sealed.
Properly designed and installed duct systems can have efficiencies of 80%or more for little or no additional cost,
potentially saving a homeowner up to $200 or more per year in heating and cooling costs. Efficient duct system
installations may also reduce equipment size, further saving money for new or replacement equipment.
Duct sealing yields the biggest savings when the ducts are located in an unconditioned area that is well connected
to the outdoors.The outdoor air enters the return duct leaks,and heated or cooled air exits the supply ducts.This
leakage wastes energy. It also pressurizes and depressurizes areas of the home, providing a driving force for air
leakage throughout the building shell. When ducts are located in conditioned areas, duct leakage leads to some
inefficiency and local temperature differences, but isn't a major energy problem. Return leaks are the trickiest to
find and the most important ones to seal, especially return leaks near thefurnace.It is very importantforthe safety
of the residents to seal ducts thoroughly and to relieve pressure problems near combustion furnaces. A large
return-air leak near the furnace can draw flue gases down the chimney into the living space.
Duct Sealing
Duct sealing is an extremely important and often neglected energy management measure.The force-air supply
and return ducts should be an airtight, closed system joining the furnace to the building. Duct joints should be
sealed with duct mastic between the furnace and ducts, between registers and floor,wall,or ceiling,and between
duct sections.
Duct Insulation
Fiberglass is the most common insulation for ducts. Seams should be tight between pieces of insulation.
REEP Guidebook 4
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It is important to avoid insulation gaps and voids.The insulation should wrap all the way around the duct.Seal the
seams with a high-quality tape. Metal fasteners hold insulation in place better than tape.Fiberglass duct board and
insulated flexduct are duct materials with built-in insulation.They are not as durable as metal ducts but are easier
to build and install. Duct board and flexduct ducts must have a larger cross-sectional area compared to metal
ducts, because they are rougher inside and therefore create more air resistance.Flexducts should not be used for
long runs.
Hot water or steam pipes should also be insulated.
Heating
Heating is the largest energy expense in most in most homes. Reducing the energy used for heating is the single
most effective way to reduce the utility bill.
A combination of conservation efforts and a new, high-efficiency heating system can out fuel bills in half without
lowering your comfort level.
The heating system replaces heat that is lost through the envelope of the house. How much heat is needed
depends on how big the house is, how cold and windy the winter is, the efficiency of the heating system and the
habits of the family.
If there is a choice of heating fuels,the decision is generally based on economy of operation.The cast of operation
is not only based on the fuel cost but the efficiency of the heating system.Other factors that should be considered
are the system cost of fuel delivery(installing natural gas mains).
Forced-air Systems (Gas-tired)
Forced-air furnaces that deliver heated air to all parts of the home operate from a thermostat that signals burners
to ignite.When the air surrounding the heat exchanger in the plenum reaches a preset level,the electric-powered
blower comes on. Air from inside the house is pulled into the furnace cabinet through the return air duct.The air
passes through a filter and is circulated over the outside surface of the heat exchanger.The heat is transferred to
this circulated air through the heat exchanger walls and does not come in contact with the fuel or the products of
combustion.A blower forces the heated air circulating around the heat exchanger out of the furnace,through the
ductwork,out the registers and into the living space. Return air ducts carry the cooler room air back to the furnace
where it is reheated. Both delivery and return air ducts should be well sealed and insulated where they pass
through unheated areas.
When the desired room temperature is reached, the thermostat signals the burners to shut off. The blower
continues to operate until the furnace cools to a preset level and then shuts off. The plenum thermostat that
controls the blower can be set to come on at a lower temperature and stay on longer to move more heat into the
home.
It is very important with forced-air systems to clean or change the filters monthly during the heating and cooling
season.Older, natural gas forced-air systems have a continuously burning pilot to ignite the gas-air mixture.New,
high-efficiency furnaces have electronic ignition devices.
It is not a good idea to spend moneyfor repairs on an older furnace. Existing forced-air furnaces have a seasonal
efficiency of about 60 percent;new systems have a seasonal efficiency of 80 percent to 95 percent.Changing an
older system to a new, high-efficiency system,instead of investing in repairs,should be done,however,replacing a
working furnace with a new high-efficiency model has a long pay-back time.
Hydronic Systems
Hydronic (hot water boiler) systems are less common. In this system, hot water from the boiler is circulated
through pipes to radiators in each room,then back to the boiler to be reheated.There is a pump at the boiler which
circulates the hot water from the boiler to the radiator,The thermostat usually controls the pump and burner and
turns it on when the house needs heat. The water starts circulating and continues until the thermostat setting is
reached.
RE.EP Guidebook 5
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This type of heating system is a radiant system and does not have fans, which eliminates the chilling factor of
moving air. The system is more efficient because it does not have duct losses. For more efficient operation, a
control can be added to measure outside temperature and adjust the boiler temperature hotter as the outside
temperature cools. Boilers can be fueled by gas, electricity or even wood.
Combustion Air
The need for combustion airfor gas-fired heating appliances must not be overlooked. Failure to provide adequate
combustion air will ultimately result in the production of carbon monoxide. Overall tightening of a dwelling could
make a home so tight that adequate combustion air would not be provided to the gas-fire appliance.
If your furnace draws combustion air from the crawl space,and you seal and insulate the crawl space,you need to
be sure adequate combustion air is provided by running a combustion air duct from a crawl space opening to the
furnace.
Replacement Systems
When your existing gas furnace or boiler fails, you will need to replace it. There are a number of replacement
furnaces to choose from, including many high-efficiency models.Over the lifetime of the heating system,the pay-
back in energy savings can be substantial.
How do you know which one to buy? First of all, check all the models available before you decide. We suggest
getting bids from several contractors.
EnergyGuide fact sheets are available from heating contractor or dealer.These fact sheets will help you compare
models. Be sure to ask the heating contractor who replaces your furnace to run a heat loss calculation on your
home.This is needed to size the new unit correctly.A new furnace will probably have a lower Btu input rating.
If you replace your furnace,you will usually need a permitfrom the local building authority.Also,anytime you have
work done on your furnace by a contractor, be sure he/she is licensed and has taken out all of the necessary
perm its.
It is seldom cost-effective to replace a working,existing furnace.The exception is an old coal stoker that has been
converted to natural gas. It should be replaced as soon as possible.
Electric Heating Systems
Electricity is a more expensive fuel than natural gas,so it is important to choose the most efficient,electric heating
System you can afford.
Forced-air electric furnaces, employing resistance heating coils, are sometimes used in small homes and
apartments because they are less expensive up front, however,they cost more than twice as much to operate as
electric heat pumps.
Baseboard resistance heaters use a metal element to convert electricity to heat.Almost all of the electricity that
passes through the element is converted to heat.
The units are located in each room and usually have individual thermostats. By zone-heating, keeping only the
room you are using at a higher temperature, this type of heating cost can be reasonable.
Radiant panel heating may be located in the floor, walls or ceiling and may use electric resistance heating or hot
water from a central boiler.The heat is transferred by radiation and convection to the surrounding room.
If the radiant heating is located in the ceiling orfloor, be sure the attic orfoundation is adequately insulated.Bythe
same token,walls should be insulated behind the radiant panels to keep the heat inside the home. Radiant panel
systems can be slow to respond to temperature changes.
BEEP Guidebook 6
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Heat Pumps
Electric heat pumps have been available for home heating far mare than thirtyyears.Essentially an air conditioner
running in reverse, heat pumps produce two to three units of heat energy for each unit of electrical energy
consumed. A seasonal efficiency rating for heat pumps has been devised by the U.S. Department of Energy
(DOE). This rating, known as the Heating Season Performance Factor (HSPF), equals the average heating
capacity in Btu-per-hour divided by the power consumption in watts.The efficiency of a heat pump increases with
higher outdoor temperatures, therefore, seasonal efficiencies are higher in warmer climates.
Most heat pumps employ the same basic layout and components as the equipment of 30 years ago. With the
emphasis in the last decade on energy efficiency, and with the advent of solid state controls, today's heat pump
offers marked improvements in efficiency and reliability. Because heat pumps also provide cooling in summer,
consideration should also be given to their cooling-efficiency rating or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio(SEER).
New developments in heat pumps, including variable speed compressors and new compressor designs, are
improving the HSPF's.
Air-to-air heat pumps are effective in winter at temperatures down to about 30°F.Supplemental heat is necessary
at temperatures below that.
Ground source heat pumps are the most efficient and most expensive in initial cast of electric heating systems.
These units use the ground, or ground water, as a heat source for warming, or a heat sink for cooling. Generally,
ground source heat pumps are installed at the time of construction or when retrofitting an existing air-to-air system.
Living with a Heat Pump
The heat pump delivers air at temperatures closer to room temperatures than conventional gas or electric
furnaces. Because a heat pump does not deliver hot blast of air, some people will feel cool until they adjust to a
heat pump-conditioned environment.
The effectiveness of a heat pump is diminished by closing off unused rooms.Thus,the homeowner must heat all
of the home instead of only rooms used on a constant.
Special automatic thermostats must be purchased if you want to set back temperatures at night and during periods
the home is unoccupied.Without the special thermostat,the immediate several degreejump in the heating when
the thermostat is turned up requires the backup heat source(usually electric resistance heating),so the heat pump
savings are reduced.
If you are replacing an existing system with a heat pump, be sure to ask the contractor if your present ductworkwill
have to be modified or replaced. Heat pumps require large ducts, and there should be several air returns. Both
ducts and returns should be insulated in all systems.
Conservation Devices
The number of"energy-conservation devices"for gas or electric heating systems on the market is growing rapidly.
Many of these devices are well constructed and, if properly installed, are safe.
All of these devices (except some automatic clock thermostats) should be installed by a qualified heating
contractor; they are not designed to be installed by the do-it-yourselfer,
Thermostats
Temporary day or night set-back(turning the temperature down at night orwhen no one is home)will save about 1
percent per degree of eight-hour set-back. Note:A thermostat should not be located by a direct source of heat(i.e.
heating vent, lamp, stereo, television or sunlight), on an outside wall or under a whole-house fan opening.
Permanent set-back (setting the thermostat temperature back to a lower setting and leaving it there)will always
save energy. There are some drawbacks to extreme set-back. Elderly individuals and those with poor health
REEF Guidebook 7
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should not set the thermostat down below 68°F. Hypothermia, a lowering of body temperature and slow-down of
bodily functions, could result if the temperature is too low.
Set the temperature as low as you can to still be comfortable. Don't forget to add additional layers of clothing so
you can be comfortable at Bower temperatures.
The savings potential ds very different between permanent and temporary set-back. For permanent set-back,there
is a potential energy savings of about three percent per degree set-back.
Clock thermostats will save energy by automatically turning the thermostat down and up on a preset schedule.An
advantage is that your home will be warm 'when you get up or come home. But, if you can train yourself to
manually turn the thermostat down, you can save the same amount of energy.
A special type of set-back thermostat is necessary for use with heat pumps.
Vent Damper
The vent damper is a device that automatically seals the combustion flue gas vent during the off cycle of the gas
furnace.This saves energy by preventing room air from going up the vent while the furnace is off.
The effectiveness of a cent,damper varies greatly and should only be installed by a qualified service person.An
automatic vent damper is only effective when installed on heating equipment located in a heated area,such as a
utility room or heated basement.Make sure the type you use is certified and approved for installation in your area.
A vent damper is standard equipment on new furnaces. Before installing a vent damper on an existing furnace,
you should evaluate replacing an older furnace.
Intermittent Ignition Devices (IID)
An intermittent ignition device eliminates the use of a constantly-burning pilot light by electrically igniting the gas
pilot each time the furnace is called upon to operate. If the pilot does not ignite,the ignition control will not allow
gas to flow to the main burner, IIDs are normally cost-effective on new systems.At present energy costs, however,
it is not usually economical to add to an existing furnace. An IID is standard equipment on new furnaces.
Insulation
(affective insulation is one of the most importantfactors in the energy efficiency and comfort of any building.Byair
sealing your home, adding insulation or replacing old windows with Energy Stara rated windows, you create a
thermal envelope that encloses heated or cooled living spaces. This not only maintains comfort, it also saves
energy, and helps lower your energy bills,
To increase the energy efficiency of your home, you should insulate all exterior walls that separate conditioned
spaces from unconditioned)spaces, including areas like knee walls that open to attics or garages. Insulating attics
closes the thermal envelope from above. To make a more "secure" envelope, make sure you fill all cracks or
openings with insulation.
Fiber glass insulation products offer thermal efficiency improvements and are typically Energy Star®rated.Many
brands are also an average of 25% recycled content. And of course, it promotes better indoor air quality and a
healthier indoor environment when they're made without Formaldehyde.
R-Value ...What is it?
R-value tells you how a material resists heatflow.The higher the R-value,the greater the resistance.R-values per
inch vary with different types of materials.Therefore, how well insulation performs is more accurately measured by
its total R-value than by inches of thickness.
BEEP Guidebook 8
Where to Insulate
Insulation should be between any area that separates a heated space from an unheated space.This includes all
exterior walls,attics,floors over unheated areas, heated basement walls and overhangs.Other areas that should
not be overlooked include exterior walls between levels in a split-level home, rim joist area, knee walls next to
unheated garages, storage rooms, utility rooms, dormer and cantilever walls and ceilings,and floors over vented
crawl spaces.
In other words,the insulation should completely surround your home with the onlyopenings being doors,windows
and vents.
Places to Insulate
Ceiling joists
Finished attic end walls
Attic living space
Rafters to knee wall in finished attic
Finished attic knee wall exposed to cold
Short exterior walls
Finished attic collar beams
Wall to unheated garage
Interior wall can be insulated for sound proofing
All exterior walls
Cantilever area
Sill
Heated basement walls
Underfloor
Open crawl space
Under slab
Rim joist
Safety
Provide good lighting.
Be careful of any protruding nails.
Wear protective equipment.
Provide adequate equipment.
Keep lights and all wires off wet ground.
Use temporary flooring to form a walkway in unfinished attics (the ceiling won't support you weight).
Don't move wiring around. If you find brittle wiring, leave it alone and call an electrician.
Vapor Barriers
A vapor barrier should be placed on the"warm-in-winter"side of the insulation. Face the vapor barrier down when
insulating between ceiling ratters, on the inner(room)side of exterior walls and up when insulating floors.Do not
install a vapor barrier on top of existing attic insulation.
You might note that,although a vapor barrier will protect insulation and building materials, it will also increase the
humidity level in your home.The amount of moisture or the humidity level in your home will depend on a number of
factors.Such factors include the amount of air leakage that occurs in your home,the amount of insulation,whether
or not you use a humidifier, the number of household members, the amount of cooking, showers, washing and
drying clothes and whether you have a large number of plants. Any tears or cuts in a vapor barrier should be
repaired with tape to protect the effectiveness of the barrier.
rn REEP Guidebook 9
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Be Careful When Installing Insulation
Excessive moisture in the home filters through insulation, causes it to become damp and matted, and makes it
lose much of its effectiveness.
To prevent or reduce condensation problems,the side of the insulation exposed to high vapor pressure(warm side
in winter) must be covered with material that will impede the natural drive of moisture to flow through the inside
surfaces of exterior walls,toward the lower vapor pressure outside.To be effective,such a material must have a
high resistance to moisture flow.The material is usually called "vapor barrier"or"vapor retarder".
If moisture problems exist,you may have to increase ventilation in you home by using such items as exhaustfans
or air-to-air heat exchangers. Please note that these options use energy to operate. So, in terms of conserving
energy, it is wiser to try to reduce the source of humidity by following the suggestions outlined in the section on
moisture considerations and control in this book.
Preparing the Attic
There are several Ihings you need to do to most types of attics to prepare them for insulation:
• If your roof has leaks, fix them! Look for water stains, find the leaks, and repair them.
• Inspect for adequate ventilation (see section on Attic Ventilation for requirement).
Cover open chases or holes in the attic as necessary to prevent insulation from falling through.
Cover dropped soffits over kitchen or bathroom cabinets, open interior wall cavities,dropped ceilings and
stair wells before insulating.Gaps in insulation maytremendously reduce the overall effectiveness of the
insulation.
Chink or stuff scraps of insulation around fireplace chimney and end walls.
Always keep insulation at least three inches away from the sides of recessed light fixtures, fluorescent
light fixtures, wiring compartments and fluorescent light ballasts. Use a fire-proof baffle to keep the
insulation away from the fixture when using loose fill.
Use a baffle to prevent insulation from blocking air flow from the eave or soffit vents into the attic.
• Be sure the insulation extends far enough to cover the top plate on outside walls.
It is not necessary to insulate above unheated areas such as a porch or patio. It may be helpful to mark
and block off these areas.
RELP Guidebook 10
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There are different methods of insulating different types of attics. Take a look at the following information to
determine your attic type and the type of insulation recommended.
I Atl tic Types _ Insulation Options
Batts, blankets,wet-blown cellulose,or loose fill can be placed between
Open, unfinished, unfloored, ceiling joists. Loose fill or wet-blown can be added on top of existing
unheated insulation. A second ply of batt insulation should be unfaced and laid
perpendicular to the first ply.
Loose fill can be blown under the floor between ceiling joists. If the attic
Unfinished, floored will ever be heated or used as living space, insulate with batts, blanket,
or wet-blown between roof rafters and on end walls.
Use batts, blankets,or wet-blown on vertical kneewalls. Blow or pour in
Heated, used as living space loose fill between ceiling joists and outer attic rafters behind kneewalls.
Stuff rafter cavity above the kneewall and blow insulation down the
rafter cavity.
The mast common practice is to blow in loose fill or wet-blown
nsulatien if you are insulating the ceiling where there is a cavity. Ifthere
Cathedral ceiling is no cavity, rigid insulation may be applied on the interior surface and
caulked.
i I
Flat roof _ Same as cathedral ceiling.
J
Crawl Space
Insulating crawl space can be done by insulating either the perimeter(foundation)wall or by insulating beneath the
floor. If you choose to insulate at the floor level, you must also insulate ducts and water pipes. It generally takes
less material to insulate the foundation wall instead of the floor, ducts and water pipes.
Insulating at the floor level allows for ventilation and a supply of air to the furnace if it is located within the house.
Areas over unheated basements, garages, parches and crawl spaces should be insulated.
Floor Insulation
Six-inch fiberglass(R-19)is recommended in California.With the exception of garages,the floorjoists are spaced
every 16 inches or 24 inches.You can purchase standard width baits or blankets; otherwise, you will have to do
some cutting and fitting.
If you are insulating the floor over an unheated dirt crawl space, lay six-mil plastic(polyethylene)on the ground to
keep moisture from being drawn up during the winter. Extend the plastic sheet several inches up the walls and
fasten in place with tape. Overlap adjoining pieces, and anchor with bricks, rocks or sand.
Landscaping for Energy Efficiency
Air Changes
Planting trees and shrubs around your home will help reduce your heating and cooling costs.How much it reduces
costs depends on the choice of plants, where you locate them, the location of your home and its construction.
KEEP Guidebook 11
a 4m.
Trees and shrubs also reduce noise and air pollution and make your home more attractive and more valuable.
Therefore, money spent on landscaping your home is a good investment.
Winter
An unprotected home loses much more heat on a cold,windy day than on an equally cold, still day.Well-located
trees and shrubs can intercept the wind and cut your heat loss. Studies of wind breaks show they can reduce
winterfuel consumption by 10 percent or more.Trees and shrubs planted close to a building reduce wind currents
that otherwise would chill the outside surfaces. Foundation plantings create a "dead air" space which slows the
escape of heat from a building.
Foundation plantings also help reduce air-infiltration losses around the foundation of the house. Closely planted
evergreens are suggested for this area. i
Deciduous trees lose their leaves in the fall and allow the winter sun to enter the windows and warm the inside
space. In the summer, their leaf cover provides cool shade which reduces your home's need for mechanical air
conditioning.
Summer
The maximum air-conditioning need in Palm Springs is usually in July through September, and most electrical
power for air conditioning will be used in the,Iate after noon hours.With this in mind, landscape plantings should
include trees and tall shrubs to shade west-facing walls,windows, and the southwest corner of the home during
the hottest summer afternoons.Quick-growing vines may be planted on trellises to provide summer shade screens
while trees are growing. If lhere is no roof overhang to significantly reduce the effects of the sun on south walls,
deciduous trees and shrubs should also be planted to shade south walls and windows.
When planting trees, choose the site carefully. Plant tall growing trees such as hickory, walnut, oak, pecan,
sweetgum and pine well away from any power lines so branches do not tangle in the wires. Avoid planting trees
over underground utility lines.
Xeriscape Gardening
Within the Xeriscape landscape, plants are zoned or grouped according to theirwater needs.Proper plant location
is as important as plant selection.Turf is considered a plant, not a filler.Typically,there are three water use zones;
low, moderate and high.This, along with mulch and plant selection, avoids the need for excessive water use.
Lighting accounts for only 5 percent to 90 percent of total energy use in most homes
Types of Lighting
Incandescent lighting is very inefficient. Much of the electricity use is changed into heat instead of light, which
shortens the bulb's life. These bulbs are the most common type used in residential lighting-
Compact fluorescent lighting became available in the early 1980s. It uses just 1f3 as much electricity for the
same light as incandescent bulbs and lasts 8 to 12 times longer. Compact fluorescents save money compared to
incandescents, but they cost more to buy.Over the life of one compact fluorescent bulb(about 10,000 hours),you
can expect a savings of$10 to $15.
Many incandescent bulbs can be replaced with compact fluorescent bulbs. However, because of their larger size,
some fixtures cannot be retrofitted. Compact fluorescents have good color rendition and don't flicker or make
noise. You may notice some do not light instantly and may be slow starting in cold temperatures. They can be
used in three-way fixtures but will operate only on two of the three settings and provide one light level. Compact
fluorescents cannot be dimmed.
The best use for compact fluorescents is in lights that are left burning for many hours,such as porch lights or night
lights, or where the bulb is difficult to replace, such as over a stairway.
REEF Guidebook 12
3
Tube fluorescent lighting has improved dramatically over the past ten years. Fluorescent tubes almost match
incandescents in color rendition. Do not be satisfied with standard cool-white or warm-white tubes. Look for
products with high color rendition indexes (CIR); also lock for high efficiency. A standard four-foot tube can be
purchased using only 32 watts instead of 40 watts. Electronic ballasts, instead of magnetic ballasts, totally
eliminate hum orflicker.Some of the newest high-efficiency lamps are smaller in diameter and would require new
fixtures.
Use tube fluorescents in kitchens, bathrooms,workshops, and for indirect lighting.You can buy fixtures that can
be dimmed to vary the light levels.
Outdoors lighting is good insurance against vandalism and theft. Mercury vapor lights are still the most common
for outdoor lighting, but they are quickly becoming obsolete because of the higher efficiency and improved color
quality of high-pressure sodium and metal halide lights.
Using lighting wisely means turning off lights when not needed.Turning off incandescent orfluorescent lights will
not increase usage.There are a large variety of occupancy sensors available. Other ways to control lighting are
with time clocks and photovoltaic sensors.
Ventilation
Ventilation of an attic or crawl space is very important to allow warm, moist air to escape to the outdoors.
If the insulation in your attic has a vapor barrier(which should be toward the floor and not on top of the insulation
where it maytrap moisture),you should have at least one square foot of"free vent opening"(measurement of the
opening not including the area taken up by screen or grillwork)for each 150 square feet of floor area.The net"free
vent area" should be specified on the vent itself, or the information should be available from the vendor. It is
preferable that the vents be located such that one-half of the vents are low and one-half are high.
Don't try to substitute a vapor barrier for ventilation.According to Department of Housing and Urban Development
standards, if you have a vapor barrier you should still have one square foot of"free vent opening"for every 300
square feet of attic floor opening.
Turbine vents and attic ventilating fans are also useful for ventilation.
Note: Take care to install enough attic ventilation to meet the needs of your whole-house fan. Requirements
should be listed on the instruction sheet or available from the manufacturer or vendor of the fan.
Wintertime Attic Ventilation
If the house is insulated, attic ventilation should not be covered in the winter. If warm, moist air in the attic
condenses on the roof decking, it may melt and drip on attic insulation, causing the insulation to be ineffective.
Warm air in the attic can also cause other roof problems.
Crawl Space
Crawl spaces should be vented to the outdoors in the summer. If the vents are located near each corner,the vents
will permit good air movement through the crawl space. The total of all the vent areas where there is no vapor
barrier as a ground cover should be at least one square foot for each 150 square feet of the floor area. Where
such a vapor barrier is used, the vent area may be reduced to 1/1,500 of the floor area.
Crawl space vents should be closed and sealed in the winter. Exception:When vents are used for combustion
air-to-gas appliances located in the crawl space.
Note: If your foundation walls are insulated,the vents should have insulation placed over them in winter.
BEEP Guidebook 13
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Water Heating
Water heating is the third largest energy expense in the home, behind heating and air conditioning. Because a
water heater is one of the large energy users, EnergyGuide labels are required.The labels are good guides for
choosing the most efficient model you can afford.
The fuel you use to heat water is a big factor in water heating costs. If you have an electric water heater,the cost is
probably two to three times as much.
When purchasing a new water heater, choose as small a tank as possible to meet your family s needs. In the
upper right hand corner of the EnergyGuide label,you will find a listing of the First Hour Rating in gallons.This will
tell you how many gallons of hot water that tank will produce in a single hour. Match that number to your needs.
Tank water heaters use either gas or electricity to heat water, then store 20 to 80 gallons in an insulated tank for
use when a faucet is turned on. Heat is constantly lost through the tank walls (this is called standby heat less
which accounts for 20 percent to 60 percent of the total cost of heating water), and the gas burner has to reheat
the same water even when no water is being used.
For lank-type water heaters, there are three main energy uses:
1. Demand costs are the initial heating costs of water.The energy usagefor demand will varyfrom summer
to winter with the temperature of the incoming water. Lowering the tank temperature, and water usage
efficiency, will lower demand costs. Using less hot water is the best savings measure-
2- Standby losses amount to 20 percent to 60 percent of total waterheating energy.Households using less
hot water have higher percentage of standby losses. Lowering the tank temperature and adding extra
tank insulation will cut standby losses.With an electric resistance tank,the use of an automatic timer can
reduce energy used to reheat water.
3. Distribution Dosses occur in pipes when hot water flows through them. Insulating pipes and short runs to
plumbing fixtures will reduce distribution losses, Install a heat trap at the water heater to stop convection
of hot water into the hot and cold water pipes above the water heater. Consider installing a small water
heater, or an instantaneous heater, at the point of use to decrease your distribution losses substantially.
Instantaneous water heaters heat water as it is needed, using a gas burner or an electric element.The units can
serve a single EAO or as centralized heaters to replace conventional tank water heaters.Although tankless water
heaters will provide an endless source of hot water, most will provide the hot water at a slow flow rate (2 to 3
gallons per minute with a temperature rise of 90°F).Whether you should replace a conventional water heaterwith
a tankless unit depends on the size and efficiency of the tank being replaced, the cost of energy used and the
frequency and amount of hot water used.A tankless water heater is probably a good idea for a vacation home;or
a household with small, and easily coordinated, hot water requirements; or a remote bathroom that could be
served by a small point-of-use model. These heaters are more expensive to purchase.
Heat pump water heaters are more efficient than electric resistance units.A heat pump water heater uses a third
to half as much electricity as a conventional electric resistance water heater.While the efficiency is higher, so is
the purchase cost-
Batch solar water heaters are a do-it-yourself project that pays.These simple heaters preheat water using the
sun's heat.They are inexpensive to build, and plans are available for their construction.
Hot Water Savings
• Fix any hot water leaks promptly.
• Install high-efficiency showerheads. The Energy Policy Act of 1992 mandates that any showerhead
manufactured after January 1, 1994, must not be more than a 225 gallon-per-minute flow (at 80 psi).
Some showerheads have valves that allow water shut-off at the shower head without losing temperature
mix.
• Low-flow faucet aerators for the kitchen are covered in the same legislation.They reduce flowto 2.5 gpm.
• Take short showers.
• Use your dishwasher wisely instead of washing dishes by hand.
REED Guidebook 14
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Set washer cycles for the lowest temperature and water amount that will get clothes clean.
Always rinse on cold water setting.
Set water heater temperature at 120OF- 1300F.
Water Usage
The average family's indoor water usage is about 50 gallons of water per person per day. If your family's water
usage is more than that amount, you need to look at your water use habits.
Flushing the toilet accounts for about 42 percent of the total, bathing is 32 percent, and laundry is 14 percent.The
amount of water that is used for drinking or cooking is probably less than 4 percent of the total.
The Energy Policy Act of 1992 has maximum water-use standards for plumbing fixtures. Toilets manufactured
after January 1, 1994, have a 1.46 gallon per flush flow(as opposed to 3.5 or 5 gallons per flush for older units),
and showerheads will have a maximum flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute. Replacing a showerhead or an older-
model toilet, is a good investment.
Efficiency Hints
Fix all leaks promptly
Don't let the water run while shaving or brushing your teeth.
Use low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators.
Take short showers and don't overfill the bathtub.
Use your dishwasher wisely instead of washing dishes by hand.
If you wash dishes by hand, don't let the water run for rinsing.
Use full loads in your dishwasher and in the washing machine.
Lawn Irrigation
An irrigation system can be the most efficient method of watering a landscape if it is correctly designed,
maintained and programmed according to plant needs and weather conditions.An owner should be aware of the
system's operations and be alert to signs of trouble with equipment or scheduling. It's also important to adapt the
system to maturing landscape and to consider improvements that can increase efficiency.
Good water management can improve lawn quality and lower bills.The choice of species of grass will determine
water needs.A lawn of Kentucky bluegrass will demand higher input of water, chemicals and labor than anyother
type of grass. It needs more water than other grasses (1.2 inches weekly), but many owners give bluegrass
excess water. Turf-type tall fescues have greater heat and drought tolerances than bluegrass and are better
adapted to partial shade;they require only.8 inch of water per week;Zoysia or Bermuda grass lawns require only
5 inch per week.
Mowing height and frequency affect water consumption. Slightly taller grass will develop deeper, more drought-
hardy roots.
Efficient Irrigation
Water your lawn only when needed.
Water grasses heavily and deeply when they begin to wilt. Frequent,shallow sprinklings produce poor root
development.
Water during the coolest part of the day; generally early in the morning.
Don't water during windy conditions.
Position sprinklers so they water the lawn, not the pavement.
Use mulch on your garden and flower beds to help keep soil moist.
Other Outdoor Water Usage Suggestions
Use a broom, not a hose, to clean driveways and sidewalks.
Don't run the hose while washing your car.
BEEP Guidebook 15
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• Avoid letting children play in the hose or sprinkler.
• Check and repair leaks in hoses, hose couplings and outside faucets.
• Plant draught-resistant plants and trees.
• Use a water timer on hose sprinklers.
Windows
Windows are a significant source of heat loss and heat gain in the home. When building a new home, the
placement of windows and the type of window used can make a dramatic affect on the energy efficiency of the
house. For existing homes, replacement windows and window treatments should be considered to increase the
energy efficiency of the home.
Energy-Efficient Options for New Windows
Window Ratings help simplify the purchase of energy-efficient windows. The National Fenestration Rating
Council (NFRC) has developed a window rating system that considers solar heat gain in addition to R-value and
air leakage.The numbers,which represent the Fenestration Heating Ratio(FHR)and Fenestration Cooling Ratio
(FCR), indicate the percentage of annual household heating or cooling energythe windowwill save compared to a
worst-case window with single glazing and aluminum frame. The higher the number, the greater the savings.
Types of Glass
Until recently,conventional,clear glass was the primary glazing material available for residential use.Nowseveral
types of special glass are available that canj help control heat loss or gain, including low-emissivity glass, heat-
absorbing glass and reflective glass.
Low-emissivity glass,or low-e glass, has a special coating on the surface to reduce radiant heat transfer.While
the air space in normal double-paned windows reduces some of the heat loss, a significant amount of heat is
transferred from the warm inner pane to the colder outer pane. The coatings used on law-e glass reduce the
emissivity, thereby increasing the R-value (resistance to heat flow) of double-paned units. The incoming visible
light is reflected only slightly,so low-e glass appears almost clear rather than mirror-like.Window units with low-e
coatings cost about 10 percent to 15 percent more than regular units but can reduce energy flow though a window
by 30 percent to 50 percent. New window units should be the low-e type with a U-value(conductance of heat)of
.35 or less to control conduction losses.They should also have a shading coefficient of.5 or less to control radiant
heat gain in the summer. If a large expanse of glass is used on the south side for solar heating, then a shading
coefficient approaching 1.0i0 should be used for these windows with the radiant heatgain controlled with shades or
awnings or both.
Heat absorbing glass contains special tints that allow it to absorb as much as 45 percent of the incoming solar
energy,thereby reducing heat gain. Part of the absorbed heat,however,will continue to be passed to the structure.
An inner layer of regular glazing reduces this transfer. Heat-absorbing glass reflects only a small percentage of
visible light and, therefore, does not have the mirror-like appearance of reflective glass.
Reflective glass has been coated with a reflective film. It is useful in controlling solar heat gain during the
summer, but it also reduces the passage of light all year long, and, like heat absorbing glass, reduces solar
transmittance in winter. These two types of glass, therefore, are not desirable for use in passive solar heating
applications.
Questions to consider before installing new windows
• What is the long term increase to the value of my home? If the home value is increased by the amount
spent on windows, then all utility savings can be considered as profit on an investment.
• Will the new windows save time and money on maintenance?
• Would window treatments, such as inside or outside storm windows, window film, awnings, or interior
shades, represent a viable alternative to new windows?
• What is the reputation of the windows and the installer? Improperly installed new windows can be as
energy-inefficient as the original windows.
REEF Guidebook 16
Energy-Efficient Options for Existing Windows
There are many inexpensive alternatives to installing newwindows in your home that will make yourwindows more
energy efficient.
Storm windows, for homes with single-pane windows, can be as effective, or sometimes more effective, in
blocking heat transfer than double-paned units.Several kinds of storm windows are available.The least expensive
is plastic sheeting that can be installed around either the outside or, preferably,the inside of windows. Glass units
with wood, metal or vinyl frames can be attached to the window frame with clips or screws. The energy savings
and payback periods from installing storm windows range from several months to a year for plastic sheeting and 5
to 10 years for glass.
Window treatments, such as insulating shades,shutters and drapes, provide some insulation to windows in the
winter by reducing heat loss at night and allowing sunlight in during the day.Since most homeowners have some
form of window treatments,the only maintenance is opening or closing the window treatments to allow sunlight in
or to keep it out.
Shading devices,such as awnings, exterior shutters or screens,can be used to reduce unwanted heat gain in the
summer.
Reflective films are another method of controlling the balance of heat gain and heat loss through windows.These
films reflect sunlight away from the window and reflect heat back into the room.
Caulking and weatherstripping are inexpensive methods used to stop air leaks around windows and most
homeowners can apply caulk and weatherstripping themselves. For additional information on caulking and
weatherstripping, please see our caulking and weatherstripping web page.
Other Sources of Information
U.S. Dept. of Energy, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Network
A service provided through the U.S_ Dept. of Energy,the EnergV EfficiencV and Renewable Energy Network is a
clearinghouse for energy efficiency and renewable energy information.
"A Consumer's Guide"to energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Selecting New Energy-Efficient Windows
Advances in Glazing Materials for Windows
Reflective Glass and Films for Windows
Exterior Doors
Storm Windows
Skylights for Residences
Efficient Window Collaborative
The Efficient Window Collaborative provides information on the benefits of energy-efficient windows,descriptions
of how they work and recommendations for their selection and use.
EPA Energy Star Program
Energy Star Windows is part of the Environmental Protection Agency's EnergVStar Program Energy Star Windows
is designed to help consumers identify efficient windows, doors and skylights.
Home Energy Magazine
Home Energy Magazine is dedicated to providing energy-efficiency information. Their web site features full text
articles on residential energy efficient construction and remodeling.
REL'P Guidebook 17
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
The Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory's Windows and Daylichtina Web site provides both consumer and
technical information on the purchase of windows and reports on research conducted by LBL into the latest
technical advances in the design of windows.
Appliances
When buying an appliance, you pay more than just the selling price; you commit yourself to paying the cost of
running the appliance for as long as you own it.These energy costs can add up quickly.
For example, running a refrigerator 15 to 20 years costs two to three times as much as the initial purchase price of
the unit; and the 100-watt light bulb you bought for 50 cents will cost about$6 in electricity over its short life.
Life-cycle costing
The sum of the purchase price and the energy cost of running an appliance over its lifetime is called its life-cycle
cost.The life-cycle costs of energy-efficient appliances are lower than those of average models.
EnergyGuide Labels
W hen you shop fora major appliance,look for the yellow and black EnergyGuide labels that can help you choose
the most efficient model you can afford.
Appliance labeling was mandated by Congress as part of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975-Labels
must be displayed on seven types of major appliances. These seven major appliances account for about 73
percent of all energy consumed in American'homes. New appliance labeling rules, passed in 1994 bythe Federal
Trade Commission to make energy-usage information easier to understand, began showing up on appliances on
July 1, 1995.
The biggest change in the labeling of refrigerators, refrigerator/freezers,freezers, dishwashers, clothes washers
and water heaters is a switch in the comparison base from an estimated annual operating cost of the appliance to
its annual energy usage in kilowatt hours of electricity or therms of natural gas. Cost information will still be
provided.
For California residents in 1993,the average price for electricity was 7.3 cents/kWh and for natural gas was 53.5
cents/therm.
Federal law requires that EnergyGuide labels be placed on all new refrigerators, freezers, water heaters,
dishwashers, clothes washers, room and central air conditioners and heat pumps.
For additional information, you may contact the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy or the
Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers for up-to-date information on appliance efficiency.
EnergyStar Labels
ENERGY STAR-labeled products use less energy than other products, save you money on utility bills, and help
protect the environment. Look for the ENERGY STAR label on quality household appliances, home electronics,
office equipment, heating and cooling equipment, windows, residential light fixtures, and more.
Selecting a Refrigerator/IFreezer
The energy usage by refrigerators and freezers has decreased,but they are still among the largest energy users in
the home. In 1990 and 1993, National Appliance Efficiency Standards specified the maximum electricity
consumption of refrigerators according to volume and features.
When shopping for a new refrigerator or freezer, shop around using the EnergyGuide labels.There is still a wide
variation in energy usage,and your choice of style and features will have and effect on energy usage.Side-by-side
models use more energy.Manual defrost models often use half as much energy as automatic defrost models but
RELY Guidebook 18
P7j
are not widely available in large sizes. If you allow frost to build up, the refrigerator will rapidly lose efficiency.
Features such as automatic icemakers and through-the-door ice and water dispensers can increase energy
consumption. Usually, the larger the model, the greater the energy usage.
As a rule of thumb,you need eight cubic feet of refrigerator space for a family of two, plus one cubic foot for each
additional person.Add two cubic feet if you entertain a great deal.Two cubic feet per person is usually required in
freezer space.
Operating Hints
If possible, locate the refrigerator and freezer away from heat sources and direct sunlight.Allow at least
one inch of space on all sides of the refrigerator or freezer.
Seriously evaluate the need for a second refrigerator. You may nearly double your electric bill.
A refrigerator or freezer in an unheated garage will use more electricity in the summer than the winter.
Clean around the condenser once a year, and keep the coils and grills dust-free.
If the model has an energy-saver switch,you can reduce the usage by about 10 percent.Heaters,used in
humid climates as an anti-sweatfeature,are not needed most of the year or in air conditioned homes.The
switch for the heaters may be labeled other than "energy -saver." If the switch has settings that say
"dry/humid," make sure it is set on "dry." If it is labeled "power miser"or"energy-saver,"turn the switch
"on"to turn the heater off.
Keep the door gasket clean and in goad shape; replace if it is damaged.
As a general rule, refrigerator thermostat should be set in the 32°F to 40°F temperature range. Usual
temperature of the freezer area in a conventional refrigerator is 10OF to 25°F; freezer section of a
refrigerator/freezer, about 50F; and separate freezers, 0°F.
Avoid overcrowding, which reduces airflow.
Avoid opening the doors often by planning ahead, and do not let the refrigerator door stand open.
Let hot dishes cool slightly before putting in the freezer or refrigerator.
In frost-free refrigerators, it is important to cover foods before placing them in the refrigerator.
Thaw foods in the refrigerator instead of using microwave.
If you have a manual defrost freezer, keep the ice coating less than 1/4 inch for the most efficient
operation.
Turn off, empty, clean and leave the refrigerator door open when taking extended vacation.
Freezers operate most efficiently when they are at least 2/3 full.
Selecting a Washing Machine and Dryer
Like dishwashers, most of the energy used by washing machines is for heating water.Water heating accounts for
about 90 percent of total energy use. Most washing machines use from 30 to 40 gallons of water for a complete
wash cycle. The energy savings for reducing the water temperature are significant.
Model-to-model, the operation of dryers is very similar. The big choice is which type of fuel -electric or gas. In
terms of energy use, gas dryers are less expensive to operate. Electric ignition is now required for all new gas
dryers.
Shop around using the EnergyGuide labels.
Choose controls that allow you to select various water levels and water temperatures.
Consider a suds-saver feature (you can re-use wash water for additional loads).
Compare models for water usage, and buy the model with the lowest water usage in your price range.
Faster spin speeds can result in more extraction and reduce drying time.
Front-loading (horizontal axis) machines Use a third less water and have better washing performance.
Operating Hints
Washer
The major cost of washing clothes is for heating water.Wash in cold or warm/cold cycles to save energy.
Adjust the water level to match the size of the load.
XEEP Guidebook 19
'r
Always use a cold-water rinse.
Dryer
Use a clothes line when possible; after drying, tumble in the dryer on air setting, to soften towels and
clothes.
Clean the lint filter after every load.
Use the washer's "sturdy clothes" spin cycle to remove as much water as possible before transferring
clothes to the dryer.
Avoid over-drying-
Use a tight-sealing dryer vent hood Ithat blocks air infiltration.
Selecting a Dishwasher
Look for these energy-saving features when buying a new dishwasher:
• An "air dry" selector. The heat is automatically shut off during the dry cycle. This can save up to 30
percent of the electricity used by your dishwasher.
• Short-cycle selectors. Use these cycles for lightly-soiled dishes as they use less hot water.
Less hot water usage. Dishwashers vary as to the number of gallons of hot water used per cycle.
Approximately 80 percent of the energy used by a dishwasher is for heating the water;therefore, look for
a model that uses less water-between 8 and 14 gallons for a complete cycle.
• Look for the yellow EnergyGuide label that should be on all dishwashers. This label will tell you the
estimated yearly cost of operation for the particular model.
• Built-in water heaters. Some energy-conserving models have built-in water heaters that bring the water
temperature up to the recommended level of 1400F. If you have this feature, the central water heater
temperature can be lowered. For each 10°F reduction in your water heater temperature setting, you cut
energy consumption by 3 percent to 5 percent.
Operating Hints
• Dishwashers use an average of 5.8 fewer gallons of water per load than washing the same dishes by
hand.
• Wash only full loads.
• Avoid pre-rinsing by scraping off large food particles.
• Match the cycle to the degree of soil.
• Vent the dryer to the outside.
Additional Resources
The American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy, 1001 Connecticut Ave.,NW,Suite 535,Washington,D.C.
20202, Phone (202)429-8573
Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers,20 North Wacker Dr., Chicago, IL 60606, Phone(312)984-5800
RF,FP Guidebook 20
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
PUBLIC HEARING NOTIFICATION
y-
CITY CLERK'S DEPARTMENT
James Thompson, City Clerk
Date: March 25, 2009
Subject: Energy Efficiency Improvements
AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLICATION
I, Kathie Hart, Chief Deputy City Clerk, of the City of Palm Springs, California, do hereby
certify that a copy of Resolution No. 22444 was published in the Desert Sun on March 7,
2009, and March 14, 2009.
1 declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.
Kathie Hart, CMC
Chief Deputy City Clerk
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
I, Dolores Strickstein, Secretary, of the City of Palm Springs, California, do hereby certify
that a copy of the attached Notice was posted at City Hall, 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Drive,
on the exterior legal notice posting board and in the Office of the City Clerk on March 6,
2009.
1 declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.
Dolores Strickstein
Secretary
i I,
RESOLUTION NO. 22444
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
PALM SPRINGS DECLARING ITS INTENTION TO
FINANCE ENERGY EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENTS
THROUGH THE USE OF CONTRACTUAL ASSESSMENTS
PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 29 OF PART 3 OF DIVISION 7
OF THE CALIFORNIA STREETS AND HIGHWAYS CODE.
AND SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING THEREON
WHEREAS, pursuant to Chapter 29 of Part 3 of Division 7 of the California
Streets and Highways Code ("Chapter 29"), the City Council proposes to establish a
contractual assessment program to assist property owners with the cost of making
energy efficiency improvements that are permanently fixed to their property;
NOW, THEREFORE THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
HEREBY FINDS, DETERMINES, RESOLVES, AND ORDERS AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The City Council hereby finds and declares all of the following:
A. Energy conservation efforts, including the promotion of energy efficiency
improvements to residential, commercial, industrial, or other real property are
necessary to address the issue of global climate change.
B. The upfront cost of making residential, commercial, industrial, or other real
property more energy efficient prevents many property owners from making those
improvements. To make those improvements more affordable and to promote the
installation of those improvements, the Legislature has authorized an alternative
procedure pursuant to Chapter 29 for authorizing assessments to finance the cost of
energy efficiency improvements.
C. A public purpose will be served by a contractual assessment program
whereby the City Council is authorized to finance the installation of energy efficiency
improvements that are permanently fixed to residential, commercial, industrial, or
other real property.
D. It is convenient, advantageous, and in the public interest to designate the
entire City, including any area that may be annexed to the City, as the area within
which authorized City officials and property owners may enter into contractual
assessments to finance the installation of energy efficiency improvements that are
permanently affixed to real property
Section 2. The City Council hereby determines that it would be convenient,
advantageous and in the public interest to designate the entire City as an area within
which authorized City officials and property owners may enter into contractual,
assessments pursuant to Chapter 29 to finance the installation of distributed
generation renewable energy sources or energy efficiency improvements that are
permanently fixed to real property.
7
5
Resolution No- 22444
Page 2
Section 3. The City Council hereby declares that it proposes to make
contractual assessment financing available to the owners of property in the City to
finance the installation of energy efficiency improvements that are permanently fixed
to real property.
Section 4. The City Manager or the City Manager's designee (the "Authorized
Officer") shall prepare, as part of the report required in Section 7 of this Resolution,
and update, sources or energy efficiency improvements that may be financed
through the City's contractual assessment financing program. The types of energy
efficiency improvements eligible for financing through contractual assessments may
include, but are not limited to, high efficiency air conditioning and ventilation
systems, high performance windows, high efficiency pool equipment, high efficiency
water heating equipment, photovoltaic and thermal solar energy systems, zoning
control and energy management control systems, high efficiency irrigation pumps
and controls and natural gas fuel cells, wall, ceiling, and roof insulation upgrades.
Section 5. The entire City and any area that may be annexed thereto, is
designated the area within which contractual assessments may be entered into
pursuant to Chapter 29.
Section 6- The proposed arrangements for financing the contractual
assessment financing program may include without limitation the issuance of bonds
pursuant to Chapter 29, the principal and interest of which would be repaid by
contractual assessments. Alternatively, the City may advance its own funds to
finance work to be repaid through contractual assessments, and may from time to
time sell bonds, notes, certificates of participation, or other Forms of indebtedness to
reimburse itself for such advances. The proposed arrangements may also include
the lease-purchase of public facilities by the City pursuant to a lease or other
contractual arrangement with a public financing authority or non-profit entity or other
financing elements as may be determined necessary or useful to the financing of the
contractual assessment program.
Section 7. The City Council hereby directs the Authorized Officer to prepare
and file with the City Council a report pursuant to Section 5898.22 of the California
Streets and Highways Code at or before the time of the public hearing described in
Section 8 hereof(the "Report"). The Report shall contain all of the following:
(a) A map showing the boundaries of the territory within which contractual
assessments are proposed to be offered.
(b) A draft contract specifying the terms and conditions that would be agreed
to be a property owner within the contractual assessment area and the
City-
Resolution No. 22444
Page 3
(c) A statement of City policies concerning contractual assessments including
all of the following:
(i) Identification of types of facilities, or energy efficiency
improvements that may be financed through the use of
contractual assessments;
(ii) Identification of a city official authorized to enter into
contractual assessments on behalf of the City;
(iii) A maximum aggregate dollar amount of contractual
assessments; and
(iv) A method for setting requests from property owners for
financing through contractual assessments in priority order in
the event that requests appear likely to exceed the
authorization amount.
(d) A plan for raising a capital amount required to pay for work performed
pursuant to contractual assessments. The plan may include amounts to
be advanced by the City through funds available to it from any source.
The plan may include the sale of a bond or bonds or other financing
relationship pursuant to Streets and Highways Code Section 5898.28.
The plan shall include a statement of or method for determining the
interest rate and time period during which contracting property owners
would pay any assessment. The plan shall provide for any reserve fund or
funds. The plan shall provide for the apportionment of all or any portion of
the costs incidental to financing, administration, and collection of the
contractual assessment program among the consenting property owners
and the City.
Section 8. The City Council hereby calls a public hearing to be held on March
25, 2009 at 6:00 p.m., or soon thereafter as feasible, in the Council Chambers, 3200
E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, California, on the proposed Report and the
contractual assessment financing program. At the public hearing all interested
persons may appear and hear and be heard and object to or inquire about the
proposed contractual assessment financing program or any of its particulars.
Section 9. The City Clerk is hereby directed to provide notice of the public
hearing by publishing this Resolution once a week for two weeks, pursuant to
Section 6066 of the California Government Code, in the Desert Sun and the first
publication shall not occur later than 14 days before the date of such hearing.
Section 10. The assessments levied pursuant to Chapter 29, and the interest
and any penalties thereon, shall constitute a lien against the lots and parcels of land
on which they are made, until they are paid. The assessments shall be collected in
the same manner and at the same time as the general taxes of the City on real
7 7
Resolution No. 22444
Page 4
property are payable and shall be subject to the same penalties, remedies and lien
priorities in the event of delinquency and default.
Section 11. The City Council hereby directs the Authorized Officer to enter into
consultations with the County of Riverside Auditor-Controller's office to reach
agreement with the County regarding the collection of the contractual assessments
by the County on the tax roll.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 4T" DAY OF MARCH, 2009.
CERTIFICATION
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE ) ss.
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS )
I, JAMES THOMPSON, City Clerk of the City of Palm Springs, hereby certify that
Resolution No_ 22444 is a full, true and Correct copy, and was duly adopted at a regular
meeting of the City Council of the City of Palm Springs on the 4�h day of March, 2009, by
the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Foat, Hutcheson, Weigel, and Mayor Pougnet
NOES: None
ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tern Mills
ABSTAIN: None
?mes Thompson, City Clerk
f Palm Springs, California
7 1
THE
PALM
♦ SPRINGS
r � , 'PATH TO A
SUSTAINABLE
VALM
t1r
.� e.,� . ' I,,.O- i 'vim, .e.y �!s1`x •y�-
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•
TABLE OF •
CONTENTS •
the •
paInn spnngs •
path •
•
•
•
Message from the Mayor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 •
Executive Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6 •
Sustainability in Palm Springs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-12 •
What is Sustainability? . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 -, . . . . . . 7-8 •
Why Sustainability? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-10 •
Community Engagement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-12 •
A Framework for Action. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 •
Sustainable City Management and Operations- . . . . . - 14-17 •
Economic Vitality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-21 •
Sustainable Urban Development and Mobility . . . . . . . . 22-27 •
Climate Change. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-31 •
Energy Conservation and Renewable Energy. . . . . . . . . 32-35 •
Healthy Ecosystems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36-38 •
•
Waste . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39-42 •
Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43-45 •
Key Roles and Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
COGAN •
OWENS •
COGAN •
•
•
With •
Lave Mayfield,Advisor •
Dorothy Atwood,Advisor
•
•
THE PALM SPRINGS_PATH IrO,A:SUSTAINAB EE'CAMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 2 •
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0 We live in one of the most beautiful places on earth. Cur quality of life is second to none.
0 But concerns about water scarcity,energy costs,environmental degradation,climate change
oand eco nomicthreat.5urround us. We must take steps now to enhance,preserve and protect A
0 our environment,economy and community for future generations
0 The city of Palm Springs has long been a leader in environmental stewardship and innovation.
0 From the early days of co-generation to aggressive waste diversion and recycling strategies MESSAGE
to innovative responses to local energy issues, Palm Springs has consistently been an early TO THE
0 adopter of energy efficiency and conservation policies and practices. COMMUNITY
0 While local government is uniquely positioned to lead on this issue, a sustainable future will
0 require investment, innovation and efficiency improvement at every level of government as
0 well as the commitment and participation of the entire community.
0 It's time to set a newdirection toward a sustainable future and adopt the policies and practices
0 Lo support it.Others must also be encouraged to take and share responsibility.
0
And so we will ask our business,community and education leaders to work together with our
0 citizens and visitors to make positive change and to ensure that sustainabiliLy is embedded
0 into our behavior and culture.Our community must be fully informed and engaged to ensure
49 that our good intentions are translated into reality for future generations.
0 Many important first steps on the Palm Springs Path to a Sustainable Community have
0 already been taken. I am especially grateful to the local leaders who committed early on
0 as a Leadership Council to help shape, coordinate, leverage resources and implement
sustainable actions in the community. I am also deeply appreciative of the efforts of our city
0 staff, SustainabiliLy Commissioners, task force members, businesses, local civic groups and
0 neighborhoods who have all contributed to our progress thus far,
0 While the challenges ahead are great,we can control our own destiny by taking action now
0 to ensure a livable and prosperous community for today and for future generations- We
0 know that a truly sustainable community will not come easily, but we also know that the
• rewards will last a lifetime,
0 Please join us on the Palm Springs Path to a Sustainable Community, "The world will not
0 evolve past its current
0 state of crisis by using
the same thinking that
0 created the situation."
0 Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet Albert Einstein
0
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0
THE PALM SPRINGS PATH TO.A!UST4111hiAkli COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009
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INTRODUCTION lY •
Palm Springs is blessed with breathtaking natural beauty'and quality of life second "EVERY PATH BEGINS •
to none. The city is also challenged by many of the same urban stressors faced by I WITH A STEP." •
other municipalities—aging infrastructure and housing,growth impacts,declining Palm Springs Mayor •
resources, air pollution, carbon emissions, Increasing congestion and threats to Steve Pougnet
energy and water supply. •
May 2008
Palm Springs also boasts a proud history of environmental sensitivity and action that •
embraces the triple bottom line—economy, environment&community. In early 2008, •
in order to further advance its triple bottom line agenda,ithe City identified sustainabillty .- •
as a priority for more focused attention and adopted 20,First Steps to begin the Path to a
Sustainable Community, •
Palm Springs Patll to a
Sustainable Cwnmmnity •
This Sustainability Plan for Palm Springs builds upon existing plans and policies, best practices and Twenly First Steps •
programs and input and feedback obtained during community outreach efforts including public 1 Strategic plan for •
workshops,briefings,presentations and an online public survey conductedOctoberthroughDecember sustainability
2008. The plan sets priorities for action and provides a'framework for future operational and policy 2, Reduce elly water use by •
decisions that begin to embed sustainability concerns Into City decision making and processes. 50%by 2012.
3. Reduce city energy use by •
20%n 6y 2012,
Chaipters 1-8 include contextand background,summary of actions;already-takeri,suggested benchmarks, 4. Become a zero waste •
goals and nearterm action Items designed to meet sustainability objectives for the City community. •
5. The city as a model for
energy,water and waste •
While the proposed actions build upon activity already underway by the city, many recommendations conservation.
surpass the pace of currently contemplated plans throughout the City.Implementing the plan,therefor e, S. Sustalnabilitywebsile •
will require increased,coordinated efforts In all areas,Including: 7. Sustainable Community
Summit •
8. Palm Springs Partners in
•Developing infrastructure to support new programs Sustamability Award.
9. Model re-landscaping
•Securing resources to implement actions project
•Developing tracking mechanisms and indicators to measure progress 10-50%clean airienergy •
efficient fleet.
•Establishing and staffing an Office ofSustainabilitywithin city hall 11.Green Economic •
Development Strategy. •
•Establishing an interdepartmental working group(Green Team) 12.Ecotounsm Plan
•Documenting and reporting progress to deosion makers and the public 13.Sustainable procurement •
and contracting
14.Priority parking for •
Implementation is not the sole responsibility of any one individual, department, agency,Commission, eltemative energy vehicles.
agency,business or neighborhood-The entire community has a slake in and must be a part of creating a 15,Five year capital •
sustainable future. This plan provides a guide forthe City to lead the way, funding plan Including
sustainabillty. •
16.Sustainable city funded •
Following acceptance of a final plan,immediate next steps will be to ground these recommendations in events.
the Palm Springs context,refine the actions,develop baselines and measures,and begin to implement 17 Sustainable workforce •
strategies and actions. education and training.
9 18.Evaluate publiGpdvare solar •
roof initiative.
1S.IVatlonalsustainabillty •
summit in Palm Springs
in 2012. •
20,Staff implementation
process for sustainability. •
•
,THE PALM_SPRINGS PATH-TO-A-SUSTACNAKE COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 4 •
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• I I ^II
• U LI J,J E �',4J J] I.I�I.••\: `1^I
• VISION STATEMENT The Graft Vision Statement
• and Guiding Principles will
support a continuing process
to intuitive,to
• Palm Springs is a thriving community that maximizes its renewable resources and conserves and resources and tor support
restores its limited resources,so that residents can be assured of a future that is economically viable and the implementation of
• in balance with the local environment. sustainable programs and
practices.
Palm Springs aspires to be a place where:
•
• •Citizens are engaged and share a vision of a sustainable future.
•Businesses support dean technology,production of renewable energy internationally-
renowned eco-destination thrive-
. •Children learn that sustainability is the local culture early,and this learning continues
throughout life.
•Water and materials are recycled and reused.
• Homes,businesses and neighborhoods are built to high green building standards.
. • Local businesses are supported and new ideas flourish.
•
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
The purpose of the Master Plan is to identify and implement actions that simultaneously benefit the
economy,ecosystems and quality of life. In order for all actions to be consistent with this vision and its
• guiding principles it is important to qualify all actions by asking the following:
• •Will this action conserve resources?
• •Will this action help the City eliminate waste and recycle and reuse resources?
• •Will this action reduce/eliminate toxic materials?
• •Does this action help the City develop and/or support renewable resources?
•Will this action help the City grow innovation and green businesses(green technology,green
• collar jobs,green building,ecotourism,clean processes and products)?
. • Does this action restore ecosystems and habitats?
• •Does this action help to promote and communicate the idea of sustainability within the
community?
• • How does this action improve health,safety and quality of life for all citizens?
• • Is there a balance between the cost and benefit of this action?
•
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• -:THE-PALM SPRINGS PATH TOA-5USTAINABCE COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 5
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"SUSTAINABILITY .
GOAL AND STRATEGIES MEANS LIVING ON •
8 STRATEGIC OUTCOMES FOR CHANGE NATURE'S INCOME
RATHER THAN ITS I
Palm Springs is a model for sustainable practices. CAPITAL" •
1. Embed sustainable principles and practices into city operations- Murray Gell-Mann .
2.Adopt sustainable purchasing policies- Nobel Prize
3. Retrofit existing and develop new public facilities as models of sustainability. Wnner /
4. Embed sustainability concepts and practices into the local culture through .
education, promotion and community engagement. _ _ •
Palm Springs is a center for clean tech, renewable energy and innovation. •
1. Incubate, grow and attract new sustainable industries to Palm Springs,focusing on innovation, renewable energy •
production, clean technology, green products and services and climate change.
2-Grow Palm Springs' local economy by retaining and expanding small and locally-owned businesses, increasing
exports and decreasing imports. .
3. Establish Palm Springs as a premiere ecotourism destination in the US by improving existing industry practices •
and expanding cultural and nature-based tourism-
Palm Springs is a leader in smart growth and green building practices.
1. Increase the number of green buildings in Palm Springs. .
2. Promote smart growth and transportation choice.
3. Promote alternative sustainable transportation options and infrastructure using alternative modes,fuel and •
vehicles. •
Palm Springs is carbon neutral.
1. Establish a baseline inventory and forecast, ongoing tracking and reporting mechanism for GHG emissions. i
2. Develop strategies to reduce contributions to GHG emissions by 1990 levels by 2020. •
3 Pursue energy efficient transportation options that reduce GHG emissions.
Palm Springs is a net zero importer of energy. •
1. Reduce local government and per capita energy consumption, •
2.Support development of local and regional renewable electric power generation including onsite solar and, where
appropriate, use clean distributed generation to supply base load electricity. •
Palm Springs is a desert oasis reflecting and capitalizing on the desert ecosystem.
1. Promote access to sustainable open space, recreation and natural resources-
2. Support regional partners'efforts to protect and enhance regional ecosystems- .
Palm Springs is a zero waste community and model of resource conservation and closed loop resource streams.
1. Reduce waste and increase recycling for all segments of the community.
1. Create closed-loop systems in which waste from one source becomes the supply for another. •
Palm Springs is a leader in water efficiency and recycling.
1. Support efforts to ensure a secure water supply for the future. i
2. Reduce water use in City facilities. .
3. Reduce water usage per capita in Palm Springs. .
THE PALM-SPRINGS PATH TIOA SUSTAINABLE.COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009
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ih`J..- �xr�� I ,ail—
•
S WHAT IS SUSTAINABILITY?
• Thei,e ane multiple defini6cris of 5ustainability but the most commonly used definiTion can be "YOU MUST BE THE
• hated to the 1987 Brundtland Commission Report- This groundbreaking document was - CHANGE YOU WISH TO
. developed bytheWorld Commission on Environmentand DevelopmerfL(VVCED),known as SEE IN THE WORLD"
• the Brunddand 0ommission.)n the repoM Lhe Commission defined sustainable development Mohandes Ghandi
as that which"meet present needs without compromising the ability of futufe generations to
• meet their needs." Some have defined this definition as an application of the Golden Rule to
• future generations.
• The Brundtland Report also noted Lhat sustainable developments should simultaneously preserve
• the environment,strengthen the economy and increase social equity. This mutual-benefitsframcworlc
• has betomc (mown as the triple bottom line. Sustainability and environmental researcher Dr. David
Suzuki noted in the Sustainability Summit November 2008 public presentation in Palm Springs that the
• words economy and ecology share a common Greckrootword"oikos"for home,
•
•
•
• SUSTAINABLE
• SOCIETY
• j W p
a
• z
• w
• THE TRIPLE BOTTOM LINE
•
• =,
• e, ti
• the TJATUR�a'L STOP
• The Natural Step approach to sustainability, peer reviewed by several Nobel Prize winning scientists,
defines the prerequisites to a sustainable society by defining the system conditions necessary to sustain
• life on planet Earth:
In the sustainable society, nature is not subject to systematically increasing:
• Concentrations of substances produced by society
• • Degradation by physical means and,in that society
• • People are not subject to conditions that systematically undermine their capacity to
• meettheirneeds
• THEP_ALM SPRINGS_PATH_TOA3USTAINABLE•CDMMUNITY DRAFT March25,2009 7
•
0
•
WHAT IS SUSTAINABILITY? (CONT.) Two well•accepted systems to •
evaluate the sustainabillty of •
cities are the Sustaintane US
The Palm Springs Plan incorporates ancl reflects all three definitions.The Natural Step and Ti=iple Bottom City Ranking system and the
Line frameworks are specifically incorporated into the guiding principles and have informed many of the United Nation Environmental .
goals and actions in the Master Plan. The guiding principles,in effect,serve as a deasion-mak Program(UNEP)Urbaning filter or Environmental Accords.
ched<Jistfor consideration when City plans,programs and actions are initiated. Other comments on the Sustamuane ranks cities for •
goals,objectives and actions were developed from community meetings and a Wcb-based survey. addressing iG measures m •
urban sustainabNity in eight
•
Local governments throughout the world are defining and acting on what it means to address areas:
sustainability.Cities from all over the world have developed local governmental plans for sustainability. •Air and water quality .
Several of these are listed in the Best Practices Example Plans Goal Area Comparison in the Appendix. -City programs
In most cases these plans orsimilario ics: -Trastemtation management •
P g P -Transportation
•Green business and economy •
•Resources and waste •Water supply •
•guilt environmenl
•Pollution and public health •Natural disaster risk •
•Transportation/mobility
•Land use and the built environment •
•Economic development and dean technologies
•Energy and carbon management •
•Ecosystem protection and enhancement
SUSTAINABILIIY: •
These and other resources are listed in the appendix for future reference and MEETING PRESENT •
investigation. Consulting team members and staff reviewed these and other NEEDS WITHOUT
plans and resources,applied them to Palm Springs' unique geographic,cultural •
and economic setting and offer the Master Plan as a'point of departure for a COMPROMISING THE •
coordinated framework of location specific actions to further Palm Springs on its ABILITY OF FUTURE •
Path to A Sustainable Community. GENERATIONS TO MEET •
Following a review of potential criteria,and in consideration cfinput and feedbackoollected THEIR NEEDS •
during the outreach period,the consultant team selected eight priority areas for focused •
atteriton in the Palm Springs plan:
•Crry Management and Operations •
•Economic Vitality The Untied Nations urban
Emimnmental
•Urban Development and Mobility Accords,signed in San •
•Climate Change Francisco in2NNb, .
•Energy Conservation and Renewable Energy Presents a framework
y Ecosystems Including seven key
•Health •
•Wye o pleats some more relevant •
springs than others:
•Energy •
•Waste Reduction
-UrbanDesign •
-Urban Nature
-Transportation •
•Environmental Health-
•Water
•
THE PALM SPRINGS PATH-TOA.SUSfAINABLE COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 8 •
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• WHY SUSTAINABILITY?
• � "AS THE SAYING GOES,
The serous challenges beforeusarewelldocumented-but with challenges A RISING TIDE RAISES
• come opportunities for Palm Springs. ALL SHIPS. SUSTAINABIL-
• ITY WORKS IN MUCH
• Global economic downturn- Many predictthatthe citiesthatwill fare best in THE SAME WAY."
• this recession will focus on their local strengths,resiliency and niche markets.
Malcolm Gladwell
• In addition,incorporating majortrends,such as renewable energy,clean
• technology,and green business,will make current niche markets more attractive-
Sustainable IndustriesJournal''s January 2009 issue states:"While no sector is immune
i to larger economic realities,institutions and companies that put less emphasis on fast
i growth and more on the triple-bottom-line are better situated to weather the storm...
i with business and investors flocking to smaller institutions that emphasize community and
i sustainability."
• OPPORTUNITY:
i Palm Springs can become a leader in sustainable industries by supporting new and
i existing"green"businesses through City economic development efforts,adopting
and sharing sustainable best practices and investing in susta inable technologies when
• economically feasible.
• The financial and banking crises are decreasing the ability of our economies to support
• real estate development and consumer spending,including tourism.
• OPPORTUNITY:
i The response to the recession by the Obama Administration and Congress provides
i opportunitiestouseAmulusfundingforhousing,educationaIfacilities,infrastructure,
i energy efficiency and renewable energyto benefit and grow the local economy. In
addition,the City can encourage local purchases,banldng and ecotourism to increase
i circulation of capital locally and further refine a distinguishing brand for Palm Springs.
Climate change is affecting regional ecosystems,their productivity and water availability.
i OPPORTUNITY
i The City can build on California legislation to become a regional leader in addressing and
adapting to climate change.
•
•
i
•
•
•
THE PALM SPRINGS-PATH T-0A SUSTAINABLtCOMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 9
•
•
.�. L' i_�l \II u��:,ei—��'i� i'J L'm,,J� itij'.i •
WHY SUSTAINABILITY? (CONT.)
Watersupplies appearto be seriouslythreatened by climate change,related weather
patterns,reduced snow packs and increased competition for water in the Colorado Basin. •
•
OPPORTUNITY: •
City government can support increased water conservation and reuse in Palm Springs to
protect existing water resources and provide a potential source of water supply for future •
growth. •
Oil and natural gas energy supplies are outside local and state control and characterized by •
wide price swings, •
OPPORTUNITY: •
City government can support energy conservation and efficiency,alternative fuel uses,and •
renewable energy production,resulting in a more stable and secure energy supply and •
reduced capital outflows from the Palm Springs area. •
Global oceanic pollution is reaching a crisis with a sea of plastic in the Pacific Ocean now •
encompassing an area twice the size of the United States.This"trash vortex"has been •
referred to as a plastic soup.
OPPORTUNITY: •
The City's supportforwaste reduction,recycling,and reuse,especially plastics,can help •
reduce negative impacts on the environment and create new sustainable businesses and •
employment opportunities. •
•
•
•
•
"We have not been living •
sustainably for generations." •
Dr. David Suzuki, •
noted environmental researcher •
&journalist
Palm Springs Sustainability •
Summit, •
November 2008
•
•
THE PALM SPRINGS PATH TO A-SUSTAINABLE CAMMUNI71( DRAFT March 25,2009 10 •
•
•
I •
•
• COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
. , "Community awareness,
• As a core element of the work to develop a Master Plan that is specific to responsibility, involvement
Palm Springs,the City engaged in a broad outreach and involvement effort and education are
from October to December of 2008. Community involvement helped frame key factors."
the overall• plan,the vision and the guiding principles. Comment from
• Over the course of the initial outreach period,thousands of local Palm Springs Online Survey
Participant
• residents were introduced to the Palm Springs Path to a Sustainable
• Community and offered their feedback in a variety of ways. Hundreds of
local students participated in assemblies, classes and presentations
• Other engagement included:
r ,4
• • Sustainability Summit Week activities November 4-9,2008, including L
• neighborhood rally,school and classroom visits,Chamber of Commerce ;
. workshop,VillageFest, Certified Farmer's Market exhibits, public =
• workshop and David Suzuki lecture- 1J
• Online survey posted on the city website and promoted widely
• throughout the public engagement period- —
• • Outreach briefings/meetings/workshops conducted with a variety of `�--.
. stakeholder groups, including neighborhood groups, business and f~�
• hospitality groups,civic and industry groups, public agencies,schools and teachers, City staff and Leadership Council members.
• • The Leadership Council,composed of leading business, educational
organizations, public agencies and institutions each adopted a
resolution to support the Palm Springs Path to Sustainability and take dz`
• related• actions within their own organizations- See Appendix fora
summary of those early actions.
• ,=1 businesses participate in a Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce 5usta1nab It workshop
TOP RIGHT Neighborhood restdent;gathered in early November to kick off Sust$=[Iry Summit
• Waelc MIDDLE RIGHT Mayor Pougnot,Palm Springs Unified School Dii , board member Shan .I
Stewart District Supenntendont Dr Lori McCune staff and student following a classroom talk
• about steps we can all tako,BOTTOM RIGHT:Hundreds of local students aignod on m the Palm - --
Springs Paih to a Sustainable Community during Summit Wook in November 200B
• THE PALM SPRINGS PATH TO SU5TAINABLE COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 11
•
•
I.i\'I 'I'1,_`r'� �l'.l _ �IIi��'-I i�eJa 1.�1J •
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT (CONT.)
Of the 118 online surveys completed,the majority were residents of the City of Palm .
Springs p4%) and over the age of 50 (62%). The overwhelming majority of respondents •
supported the first draft concepts for the vision (96%) and guiding principles (95%)- There
also were several ideas for how to improve them. Most comments centered on improving •
clarity and readability of the vision and guiding principles. •
More detailed results are available in the Summary Outreach Report and Recommenda- •
ticns available on the City's website:www.ci.palm-springs.ca.us. •
•
•
. •
• Strong support For the City's overall sustainability effort and the need for a plan,with interest from public, private, •
educational and institutional sectors.
• Palm Springs must achieve cultural and behavioral change in order for sustainability to be a success. •
• Education and youth involvement will be at the core of achieving cultural change. •
• Sustainability is not just a local issue;it transcends jurisdictional boundaries and must be employed at all scales— •
city, regional,state, national and global •
• Incentives should be employed along with regulations to encourage sustainability in the private industry.
• Conservation and efficiency is at the core of sustainability, including water, energy, and waste reduction. •
• Curtailing the production of waste and reusing waste and water is a high priority. •
• Palm Springs could be a centerfor production of renewable energy and ecotourism- .
• The desert landscape is a foundation on which to build the desert oasis. •
• Neighborhoods should be a focus for sustainable development in the City.Thc City should lead the overall
sustainability effort with support from other public agencies,private business,neighborhood groups and interested -
citizens. .
•
y Dr.David Suzuki .
x"�'�'�'• Su;tainability
Public WOftb9p Chsrl Meil Forum •
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THE PALM SPRINGS:PATH-T0 A SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 12 •
•
•
•
•
• PURPOSE AND STRUCTURE
• Pursuing the Palm Springs Path will require both long term change and more near term
• capacity building and action.The priority areas in the following eight chapters build upon
• the momentum of existing City initiatives, address critical resource issues and harness the
• ability of local government to model behavior change and build public awareness to jump
start progress and support long term strategic goals.
•
• The purpose of this section of the Master Plan is to chart a specific path, with
goals, objectives and strategies/actions for the City of Palm Springs to continue taking the
• steps necessary to achieve its vision by the year 2030.
Each goal area is its own chapter, with the following information:
• • Context for the goal area
• • Steps the City has already accomplished or that arc underway
• General Plan Guidance
• • Goal for the future
• • Key dashboard metrics
• • Objectives and strategies/actions
• Municipal government, public agencies,the business community, community and civic
• groups and individuals all have an important role to play in leading sustainabdity actions.
• Each goal area provides an opportunity for all segments of the community to identify a
role and contribution toward a Sustainable Community.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
• "Environmental quality
• and economic health are
mutually dependent."
• Palm Springs Workshop
• Participant
•
•
• ---
• THE PALM SPRINGS PATH TO A SUSTAINABEE_ COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 13
•
•
i ) -T n\ cr � n 6�, , '.r.. ' i`.l ,u,r__ , ._;l-I ,, i ;, '.[:-. „ � ,, .W CHAPTER 1 •
CONTEXT •
In recent years,the City has advanced on the Path to Sustainability with important policy •
action, including adopting the Mayor's Climate Change Resolution as well as goals to reduce •
energy use by 20%and reduce water use by 50%by 2012-The City has also taken important
sustainable action steps including installation of a gas recovery program at the city waste •
treatment facility, installation of LED for traffic lights and airport runway lighting,addition •
of solar powered waste compactors downtown,aggressive waste recycling and diversion •
programs, participation in the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan,
partial public fleet conversion to fuel efficient vehicles, PM10 and other air emission reduction
programs,as well as incorporation of sustainable land use and building policies and programs •
into the General Plan.
•
Strategies that encourage people to buy locally are also an important component of economic •
sustainability. Retaining local dollars within a community reduces economic export and •
increases the financial productivity of taxpayer dollars. It increases the consumption of local
goods and services and fosters a sustainable community. In working toward a sustainable •
economy,the City of Palm Springs recognizes that sustainable procurement policies are an •
important early step on the Palm Springs Path to a Sustainable Community.
•
With the recent adoption of a local preference ordinance,the city took an important step •
toward sustainable procurement policies-local preference to support local business and jobs •
Step two is social equity to insure inclusion. Step Three is environmental to reduce impacts and
set a standard for green purchasing.This triple bottom line approach, integrating local,social •
and environmental considerations into a unified policy, is important to the eventual success of •
sustainable procurement.
•
In the future the City should be able to comprehensively assess vendors in terms of economic •
contribution,social responsibility and environmental performance.That way the City can use .
its purchasing power to work with vendors that offer the most long-term benefit forthe City
which strengthens the local economic activity and employment as well as sets an example that •
helps foster and maintain a vital economic community for future generations. •
•
•
•
"Government should lead •
and set the example" •
Palm Springs Online Survey •
Participant •
•
THE PALM SPRINGS PATH TOASUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 14 •
•
•
•
• rr
I • U:5 ="Kl9.:
11
• THE CITY'S ROLE
• The cty's role is important in addressing policy, planning and service issues related to
• climate change, water and energy use, waste generation and other sustainability factors-
But ultimately, public involvement and community wide behavior change will be the key to
• the long term success of the Palm Springs Path to a Sustainable Community-
The City should take the lead in working with residents, neighborhoods, businesses
and community groups to model sustainable practices and Lo promote, encourage and
• empowerthe community to take actions that will improve the environment,the economy
• and the quality of IiFe for future generations.
• In addition to a commitment to expand its knowledge on sustainability generally, the City
should lead by example by committing Lo build public buildings to high green standards,
• transition the public fleet to clean fuels, enhance energy efficiency and the use of
. sustainable products and develop the infrastructure to support the use of alternative forms
• of transportation.
• This chapter addresses how the City, as a public agency, addresses sustainability in terms
of its internal management and operations and how it promotes and facilitates change in
• the community.
•
•
• STEPS ALREADY
•Organizing a Sustainability Summit Week including a public lecture on
sustainabilityfeaturing noted environmentalist David Suzuki.
• • Identifying sustainability as a top priority for the City during the City's 2008
• Priority Setting Session-The annual setting of priorities guides work plans,
funding and budget decisions for City government.
• • Expanding and refocusing the role of the Resource Conservation
• Commission to become the Palm Springs Sustainability Commission
• •Adopting a local preference ordinance.
•Committing to transition 50%of the municipal fleet to clean air fuels.
• • Participating in the Coachella Valley Association of Governments(CVAG)
• Energy and Environment Committee,Energy and Water Conservation
Sub-Committee,Coachella Valley Conservation Commission and
• Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy.
• •Expanding the Resource Conservation Commission and revising its role
• and duties to incorporate sustainability.
•Appointing a Leadership Council.24 members have adopted a -Look outside the box for
• resolution pledging specific action and support for the overall initiative. Ways to fund programs and
• •Hosting a week long Sustainability Summit Weekto raise awareness and incentives"
• provide opportunity For public input,education and information and e Survey
Online Palm Sp Onlin
featuring a presentation by noted sustainability expert par
Dr.David Suzuki.
ticipant
•
• - : - ------
THE PALM SPRINGS PATH:.TOA-SUSTAINABLE'COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 15
•
GOAL: Palm Springs is a model for sustainable practices. GENERAL-PLAN .
GUIDANCE •
DASHBOARDKEY Goals: •
•Establish the City as a leader in
•Annual City sustainability report card energy eflident and •
environmentally sustainable
•Number of community participants engagedinsustdinabilityprojects. development and planning '
•Number of green conferences,workshops and events. practices.(C�29)
•Percentage of renewable energy powering public facilities.
•Number of businesses using sustainable practices. .
•Sustainability website hits/page views.
•Number of community gardens.
i
OBJECTIVES&ACTIONS •
OBJECTIVE 1.
Embed sustainable principles and practices into city operations. .
1.Enhance sustainability capacity by establishing and staffing an Office of Sustainability.
2.Appoint and support an inter-departmental Green Team(see Key Roles and Responsibilities). •
3.Develop an annual sustainability report card and system for reporting progress and promote •
accomplishments with a short "dashboard"of key metrics that arc easily communicated
4.Train all employees in the basics of sustainability and how to manage an organization based on
sustainability.Consider the Natural Step as a framework(see Appendix). •
5.Conduct a sustainability assessment and action plan for internal operations. (See example City •
Operations Planning Workbook in Appendix-)
6.Incorporate employee sustainability performance into City personnel recruitment,hiring,review
and evaluation.
7.Integrate sustainability objectives into a five year capital funding plan.
OR.IECTIVE 2. •
Adopt sustainable practices and purchasing policies.
1.Form a task force(Procurement,key city division reps and the Office of Sustainability)to collaborate ,
on a review of current and fuwre contracts and municipal best practices and policies(including life
cycle cost analysis)for sustainable procurement opportunities for each division-
2.Develop and adopt an interim policy that provides for the purchase of independently certified •
sustainable,green products when available,affordable,within budget and meet quality •
requirements(this is first cycle cost analysis).
3-Expand the City's local preference ordinance to include social equity(women and minority owned
businesses)and environmental practices-
-THE .
AIN' ~-PALM SPRI a ��.
- ' �-CE COMMUNITX DRAFT March 25,2009 16
NGS=PATH 1 A-5U57 AB -- •
a
•
•
•
• .`� a`�' ^1auf\J II1i m'9I ,7
• OBJECTIVES&ACTIONS (CONT.)
•
• OBJECTIVE 3.
Retrofit existing and develop new public facilities as models of sustainability.
• 1.Develop a policy that guides the sustainable design,construction and renovation of all city owned
• publicfacilitics.Consider LEED Gold as a minimum standard or equivalent(see chapter 3).
2.Complete an assessment,including audits of energy,water,waste and consumption of other
• resources at major Cityfacilities and develop an action plan and timeline to retrofit existing
• facilities to minimum LEER—EB standards(see section 3).
• 3.Complete construction and develop a plan to replicate the model re-landscaping projects for
Tahguitz median and at City Hall.
• 4.Develop a plan to maximize distributed generation and cogeneration in public facilities.
• OBUECTIVE 4.
• Embed sustainability concepts and practices into the local culture through education,
promotion and community engagement.
1.Develop and maintain a City sustainability website as a resource to the community.
• 2.Establish a local network of sustninability related groups to share resources build partnerships and
. unify outreach efforts
• 3.Initiate the Mayor's hike In the Canyons and award annual Sustainability Leadership Recognition
Awards.
• 4.Develop and promote a local rating system for green business that can be replicated and
• incorporated as part of the Palm Springs brand.
5.Adopt a policy moving all City funded events toward zero waste and sustainable event practices.
• 6.Work with community partners and public and private schools to incorporate sustainability into
curriculum.
. 7.Develop a community garden pilot project in partnership with local stakeholders.
•
•
•
•
• r'
• - 1
MI k i
• .J it _.l.
•
• THE PALM SPRINGS PATH-TO A`SUSTAINABL'E COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 17
•
•
•
CHAPTER 2
CONTEXT •
Economic vitality is a cornerstone of sustainability and includes prosperity for residents,a •
strong tax base for providing needed City services,and economic activity that respects and •
restores the natural environment. •
The financial and economic downturn reinforces the need for Palm Springs to attract and •
support enterprises in growing industries and to take advantage of new state and federal •
policies and programs. By leveraging the City's strengths now, Palm Springs can mitigate
impacts and position the City to take advantage of future opportunities when the national and •
global economy rebound.
SUSTAINABLE INDUSTRY CLUSTERS •
California has been the source of many innovations that have driven the states growth and •
prosperity.A recent report from the University of California at Berkeley, California 2008 •
Innovation Index,suggests that climate policies can stimulate economic growth by providing •
incentives for investment in new technologies. Innovations in climate change, clean technology
and renewable energy can address several pressing environmental challenges while bringing •
economic benefits to the City of Palm Springs and the region- •
The City has the opportunity to leverage its assets to attract innovators to the region. Palm •
Springs'strengths include its strong foundation of local small businesses,a vital tourism •
industry, assets in renewable energy and clean technology and the City's commitment to
sustainable growth. •
•
Palm Springs is well-positioned to share in the growth of California's green innovation •
economy.The City's location, climate and topography make it an ideal production center for
renewable energy,specifically solar and wind power. Renewable energy is a growth industry, •
especially in California. From 2002.2007, California's total energy generation grew by 11%, •
while power generation from renewable sources increased by 19%. •
Clean technology(clean tech),an emerging field that develops and uses industrial processes
that cause little or no pollution, is one of the fastest growing business sectors in the world and •
has a strong presence in California. Clean technology investment in California reached an all-
time high of$3.3 billion in 2003, nearly double that of 2007-Clean tech investments continued •
to grow even as investments in nearly all other techni logy sectors fell at the end of last year. •
Investment is spread across a range of technologies: •
•
• Distributed energy—onsite power and distributed hydrogen
• Intelligence—software,sensors and data management
• Research •
"Clean Tech" can be applied in a variety of ways,even down to "green construction and •
building materials-" Pursuit of a Clean Tech target becomes an ongoing effort to attract •
companies by implementing green practices as well,as marketing Palm Springs as a •
competitive location for"clean-and-green" companies- •
•
THE PALM SPRINGS PATFTTOA SUSTAINAB_L,E;COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 18 •
-- - - _. •
•
•
LOCAL SMALL BUSINESSES
Research has proven that small, established businesses have the highest potential for
growth and newjobs creation- Focusing on a small group of high-growth, high-potential
businesses can generate a large number of new sustainable jobs- Littleton, Colo.,successfully
implemented this"economic gardening" economic strategy in the late 1980's.
Local small businesses are the backbone of the Palm Springs economy. The degree to which
• these businesses prosper will depend on the overall economic vitality of the City within the US
and global economy. Many factors, such as fuel prices and monetary policy, are outside the
City's control. However,there are actions the City and the Palm Springs business community
• can take to retain and expand locally-owned businesses, increase tourists visits, increase
. exports and decrease imports,and recruit new businesses.
Support for local businesses can take many forms, including: building a strong local
• infrastructure(e.g.,airport Facilities and public transportation), local purchasing preferences,
flexibility with local development permits and fees,targeted incentives that provide a solid
return to the City,advocacy and support for incubators, education and training programs, and
. variety of other actions. Several of these are addressed below and elsewhere in this report.
40 ECOTOURISM
Ecotourism is known as"responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment
• and improves the well-being of local people." It is defined by cultural sensitivity, responsible
. travel, benefits to local peoples and preservation or improvement of natural areas.
• The City or Palm Springs has identified ecotourism as a potential growth area, building upon
. the City's existing identity as a tourist destination and its tourism-driven economy. The City
welcomed one million guests in 2007. Retail, restaurant and hotel revenues are significant
economic generators for the City-
: A successful strategy to boost ecotourism will include both internal and external positioning
and marketing.This includes internal activity such as introducing more sustainable practices
• to the established hospitality industry as well as promoting Palm Springs as an ecotourist
' destination to new external markets.To build a reputation for ecotourism,the City and its
partners should enhance access to cultural and natural resources while expanding options for
responsible travel.
SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS PRACTICES
The City of Palm Springs can strengthen its position as a regional and national leader in
sustainability and improve its own Triple Bottom Line by developing a set of sustainable
• performance standards for City operations and decision-making. It can also encourage local
businesses to use green materials and adopt sustainable practices.
THE PALM SPRINGS'PATN TO A SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 19
•
TY
GOAL: Palm Springs is a center for clean tech, renewable •
energy and innovation.7 KEY •
•
DASHBPARD METRIC GENERALPLAN •
• Number of clean tech industry sector businesses. Goals: GUIDANCE
•
• Number of small business employees as a share of overall •Attrartand retain high-quality
employment. industrial and business park ,
• Number of new businesses licensed in and recruited to Palm Springs. development(LO).
•Attract and retain high-quality, •
•Annual number of visitors. sustainable commercial
• Percentage of year-round jobs/employees compared to part-time/ development(1-114). •
seasonal employees. Policies:
•Provide areas that allow a •
• . . . . - r combination of alternative
energy development and •
Palm Springs has already taken a leadership position toward sustainable economic growth, industrial uses.(LU3.9) .
•Encourage"green
including the following actions: technologies,"renewable .
energy,and related activities
•City Council Member Task Force appointed to focus on small business support. as a business development •
goal and to attract this type
• In 2008,the Mayor of Palm Springs launched a Task Force charged with supporting of business activity to Palm
development of an overall clean tech economic development strategy and creating a Springs.(RC8.4)
clean tech economic cluster. •Workwilh the Coachella ValleyAss •
•In 2009,the Cityadopted a referential purchasing policy for contractors and suppliers. develop
a r of Govenergy p to
P P P g P �Y PP ' develop a regional energy policy •
•The Mayor formed a Task Force on Ecotourism In 2008 to begin to develop a strategy Lo and foster the development of •
enhance and expand nature-based tourism. associated energy Industries in
the Coachella Valley.(RC8.5) .
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIONS •
OBJECTIVE 1: .
Incubate,grow and attract new sustainable industries to Palm Springs,focusing on
Innovation,renewable energy production,clean technology,green products and services and •
climate change. I •
1-Develop an economic profile of Palm Springs'sustainable industry sectors and a site •
inventory of space for sustainable development.
2.Interview business owners and other industry representatives to identify key decision factors .
for business incubation, expansion and site selection for target industries. .
3. Designate a Clean Tech Zone to provide and promote incentives and incubate and recruit
new clean tech and related innovative businesses.
4.Develop a package of local incentives(possibly including grant and loan programs,City- •
owned land and energy donations and preferential permitting policies) to make Palm •
Springs more attractive to target industries.
5.Work with education partners to identify and focus resources from the College of the
Desert, 11C Riverside, K-12 and others to support sustainable industries cluster and •
other local businesses(workforce development,incubation,research and development,
technology transfer etc.). •
6. Provide start-up firms with low-cosL materials,technical assistance and opportunities for .
collaboration.Support development of a new sustainable business incubator. •
THE PALM SPRINGS_PATH 1' INABLE;COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 20 •pA:SUSTA
•
•
•
•
•
• OBJECrIVE 2:
Grow Palm Springs'local economy by retaining and expanding small and locally-owned
• businesses,increasing exports and decreasing imports.
1. Educate residents and visitors on where to buy local goods and services-consider a "Buy
Local"campaign.
• 2. Increase support for small businesses to form,expand and innovate.Consider an economic
• gardening model
3.Complete a market analysis including an input-output model to identify opportunities
• for export and import substitution to maximize local wealth generation,circulation and
• economic multiplier effects.
• 4. Promote local purchasing and procurement strategies outlined in Chapter 1, City
Management and Operations.
•
• OBJECTIVE 3:
• Establish Palm Springs as a premiere ecotourism destination in the US by improving existing
industry practices and expanding cultural and nature-based tourism.
•
• 1. Support and promote Palm Springs hospitality and service industries to become green.
• 2.Convene existing tourism-based business owners and industry representatives to identify
opportunities for expanding nature-based tourism. Research and report on best practices
from other regions for consideration and adaptation.
• 3.Working with the local hospitality industry,develop a comprehensive marketing and
• promotional strategy for local and regional eco-tourism businesses, building the City's
identity as a gateway to the San Jacinto National Forest,Joshua Tree National Park,the
• Santa Rosa and San Jacinto National Monument and other nearby recreational and natural
• resources.
4. Increase the options for ecologically-responsible travel to the region,popular tourist
• destinations,carbon-offset alternatives and resource conservation strategies for visitors.
• 5.Work with community partners to develop an ecotourism volunteer program to engage the
• visitors in ecological restoration and other locally-beneficial activities.
• OBJEcrWE 4:
• Encourage sustainable business practices.
• 1. Establish a set of criteria for sustainable business practices based on sustainability guiding
• principles or other leading best practices.
• 2 Provide technical support and training to businesses in Palm Springs on sustainable business
best practices.
• 3. Partner with local business organizations to develop a promotional and marketing plan to
• increase the utilization of sustainable businesses.
• 4. Incorporate evaluation of sustainable practices(energy efficiency,waste reduction, recycling,
reuse, local hiring, pollution prevention, continuing education)in identifying businesses to
• attract,retain and assist.
• 5. Distribute materials on sustainable business practices and resources with business license
• and permit information.
• _ 71 - -
• THE-PALM SPRINGS PATH-TOASUSTAINABLE•COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 21
•
•
D:-, T
•
_. !.J ,d'=,'1[I'l �_ _y N. .- .i°f.'_�. CHAPTER 3 •
CONTEXT •
Sustainable urban development and mobility(transportation choice)means ensuring General •
Plan policies and associated implementing ordinances reflect smart growth principles such as: •
• Civic engagement/collaboration •
•Compact building design •
• Cultivating a strong sense of place
• Energy and resource efficiency •
• Good governance/clear decision-making -
•Green building practices •
• Historic preservation and redevelopment of existing communities as opposed •
to Greenfield development
• Housing choice •
• Opens space preservation and recreational opportunities •
• Providing a mix of land uses for residents daily needs
•Transportation choice •
•Walkable neighborhoods •
Some of the key benefits of these approaches to development include: •
• Reduced greenhouse gas emissions •
• Lower electric and water utility costs •
• Enhanced human health and productivity
• Long-term economic returns -
• Reduced environmental impact •
Sustainable site design principles include: •
• Optimize site potential •
• Protect and conserve water •
• Minimize non-renewable energy consumption •
• Use environmentally preferable products and materials
• Enhance indoor environmental quality - -
• Optimize operation and maintenance practices -
Land use planning that adheres to smart growth principles can help create sustainable •
communities by preserving open space, contributing to a range of housing options and •
minimizing travel times. Many smart growth objectives are already incorporated into existing •
General Plan policies and actions. In addition,strong smart growth policies and implementing
ordinances that are measured over time can assist local government in meeting the -
requirements of the 2009 California local government protocol for reduced greenhouse gas •
emissions(see also the chapter on Climate Change). •
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
0
•
• l
IV nJc�'-�`�'1',� I���.�\�..� - 1,J d•�.,^..II`.� �i.,..'I� /rv���-.,���'vu, _l.�'ii;�l �� �II.� ar_r �p l-�y„�+� �.
• �� 1Cz,'I - f"1° J 2n c�J
•
• CONTEXT (CONT.)
According to the US Department of Energy's Center for Sustainable Development, buildings
consume 40%of the world's total energy, 25%of its wood harvest and 16%of its water.
Energy use and material consumption for buildings will be an important focus for strategies to
. address global climate change-Green building addresses now construction, redevelopment,
neighborhood development and other related developments and is generally focused at the
• site, rather than at the community level on: sustainable site locations,water efficiency, energy
• and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor air quality and innovative design. Dramatic
savings in energy use have been documented in a wide range of green buildings in California.
•
• There are numerous green building programs and standards.The California Green Builder
• program encourages voluntary partnerships between builders and local governments to
build cost-effective,green homes that benefit homebuyers and the community at large.The
• Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)Green Building Rating SystemTM
• encourages and accelerates adoption of sustainable green building and development practices
• through the creation and implementation of universally understood and accepted tools and
performance criteria.The LEED program consists of a set of prerequisites and credits with
• specific requirements for obtaining points in order to become a certified green building.
• Prioritizing reuse, redevelopment and retrofit of existing buildings supports sustainability by
• preserving embodied energy and avoiding new impacts from construction, reducing new
• waste added to landfills,and reducing the demand for production of new materials as well
• as reducing the carbon footprint and GHG emissions by improving the energy and water
efficiency of current Facilities.The U.S.Green Building Council recently adopted LEED-EBO as a
guideline for greening Existing Buildings.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
s
•
•
• THE PALM SPRINGS PAT H_TOA'SUST-A1NAl3 E'COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 23
•
CONTEXT (CONT.) •
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
On September 23,2008, Governor Schwarzenegger signed AB 1389,which requires the
Department of Housing and Urban 'Community Development to review relevant green building
guidelines when preparing proposed building standards for submittal to the California Building •
Standards Commission.Additionally,the Department'should consider proposing as mandatory •
building standards those green building features determined by the Department to be cost
effective and feasible to promote greener construction.
On July 17,2008,the California Building Standards Commission passed the California Green
Building Standards Code,which aims to reduce water,and energy use in buildings through
landscaping, appliance efficiency, building design, and the use of recycled materials.The code
is voluntary through 2009 at which time it becomes mandatory.The Code is written so as to not •
preempt more stringent local policies.
Governor Schwarzenegger signed Executive Order#S-20-04 on December 14,2004, requiring •
the design,construction,and operation of all new and renovated state-owned facilities to be a
LEED Silver.The state is pursuing LEED for New Construction for its projects and the Silver
certification level,and LEED for Existing Buildings certification for existing facilities.
Many cities and counties across the state require public and/or private projects to meet green
building standards and/or certifications(See Appendix for a sample and summary list of over 40
entities,including links to resolutions and contacts). In addition, new California Title 24 Building ,
Efficiency Standards are expected to raise the bar for energy efficiency for new construction.
The new standards will be in effect in August 2009.
THE PALM SPRINGS_PATH 176A SUSfAINAB-N-_ -I_LE COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 24
i
•
• 1
• `?IL-.• IL '\1�J��"-1_Lfm L
•
• CONTEXT (CONT.)
• TRANSPORTATION
In California,transportation accounts for over 40%of greenhouse gas emissions. Ninety-six
percent of the state's transportation fuel comes from oil.Savings can be gained in transportation
• with alternative fuels and technologies but efficiencies in land use planning and design will also
• contribute to reducing carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. Providing transportation
choice and encouraging and incentivizing use of cleaner fuels should be lead strategies in this
• arena.
Palm Springs and much of the state of California continue to be dominated by single-occupancy
vehicle Lravel.Although weather limits lengthy bike and pedestrian trips in summer months,
• there are many opportunities to increase non-motorized trips during cooler seasons and use
• alternative-fuel and hybrid vehicles as well as carpool and shuttle vehicles for many trips-
STEPS ALREADY • OR UNDERWAY
• Green Building and Related Sites
• •Constructing the Clys new Animal Control Centerto meet LEED green
• building certification standards.
• • Including passive green systems in the design of the Convention Center
building, resulting in 60%efficiency.
• •Utilizing cold water storage HVAC systems at the Convention Center
• to reduce energy use during peak hours and automated controls io
• minimize load.
• Land Use and Transportation Planning
• • Implementing Traffic Signal Management Program to reduce vehicle
operating costs and emissions via expected reductions in stops and
• delays-
*Maintaining emergency response times for public safety vehicles above
• standards.
Alternative fuels,vehicles and modes
. •Supporting a 100%CNG bus fleet, placement of solar panels on bus
stops,placing CNG fueling stations at airport and City Hall.
• •Incorporating bike lanes in City streets.
•Transitioning the City's non-emergency vehicles and equipment to a 50%
• clean air/energy efficient fleet
•
• THE PALM SPRINGS PATH TO-A SUSTAINABLE-COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 25
•
•
•
-np N- •
h).,. .T=I \J —_Irl[..... .. . ...... J`J >> u,..:l_ ..d .l._ _7 •
j �-or, � ��'�� ire\L l\, . li._�J�J ._.Ii-TILL/i�;.-. .. �.o�_ 1__�
GENERALPLAN •
GOAL: Palm Springs is a leader in smart growth and green cols GUIDANCE
building practices. •Establish the City as a leader In energy elhcient
and environmentally Susialnable development
and planning pactices(CD29) .
•Reduce he Citl de ndencc on the use of
. . c • ` - . - single-passenyeNEhieles by enhancing mass .
•Percentofnewdevelo mentandredevelo mentoccurrin inalread built/ hansiesancictons,mcludingasocatad
p p g y policiesandackons(CAI) .
urbanized areas Policies,
•Operational costs savings for municipal buildings, •Aeaulre the useoferiergy-elbcientandgreen •
•Number of staff and indust r professionals green training. 6uildingtirechceslhatareappropralotolhe
q P g 9 9 de,satchmao(CD291). •
• Number of LEED Accredited Professions on staff and industry professionals in the •Require the use of all building ieohniquesin
community. anddfacilitiessn(Cgo 92'uon of public buildings
•Numberof out ildingsachievin91 certification orequivalency. •Supprosoandiveryofimpolhurt fine y(Cm j)naIhansit
•Share of hybrid and alternative-fuel vehicles in City fleet- •Adopts program otnonmi tansppdallon '
•Number and type edlines,Including[hem[or bicycles and
ryp pedeshans(CR61)
•Encourage he as of green building pactiices, .
including TEe 24 energy conservation
standards,in he conslrualen,feriabilitation, •
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIONS and eno ationofhousiny,lit ghee tent feasible
OBJECTIVE 1- (H34.3) .
Increase the number of green buildings. Implement green Otani design •
incentives"(CD294)
•Encourage he use at green building pacLces
1. Require all city-owned buildings be built to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Including title 24 Energy conservallon Standards
Design (LEED)Gold standards- (H343) .
g -Develop a gmon building ordnance and[Ile
2.Adopt LEEP-EB (existing building)sustainable green standards for rehabilitated City- sushinabdayvislon (I•Is41)(013291) .
owned buildings, •Implements program to address the
9 marlieri of vacant lots and Wee
3. Develop a plan for adopting and implementing green building standards For private anlM"r r,"m"'minanemencou gc
temporary uses of vann[land within Vie CUy
development. to encourge ufban amemties"has parks, i
4.Conduct a systematic review of the General Plan and implementing ordinances and ag," lloreand enovztilceneerrgydeSupported
empme 6
standards to Identify additional opportunities to incentivize and encourage green (CD1.3)
buildin radices. -Enworage large employers to adopt incentive .
g p proganslhatinclutlerideslanng,pretcrenllal
5-Develop criteria and adoptfasttrack permit processfor green developmentthat meets parking for ndeshares,lelecommuling,flex •
hours,bike racks and elheramendies to
clear and objective standards such as LEED or equivalent. Evaluate the City's focused promola commuting pallerns older than single
entitlement process for ex edited review for affordable housing as a model. Encouragedevelopesto1 o .
P P 9 Encourage developers to pfevltlC lacllllies such
6. Provide smart growth and LEED training and accreditation for select City staff. ascampolsanevanpols and bicyclepaking
Iaeddle5(CA 1.11) r
i. Incentivize architectural and historic preservation and remodeling Practices. •prepareaMaslerPlanof
Multi-I'mTrailsfonhe .
8-Develop an outreach and education plan for developers, realtors,and institutions audresspalmn�Ango ddupdaleperiodicallylo
(schools and hospitals)focused on sustainable design principles and green building. •Publicand private parkns.g I should provide
forelecVicvehlclerechagingslahons(CR33)
•Encouagelheumofhybnd,low,orzero •
emissionsvehicles in the Cltt vehlcular fleet.
Existing vehicles should be replaced by"dsaI •
oralt3m live-fuelvehiClesastheyarenomially
rotlad.(AC4 3) •
•Develop aproi to encourage he use of
altemalive-fuel vellojes This program could •
Include incenhvesSuch as priority/tree parking
or taxlereala(AC44)
•Create an incentives program to encourage .
developers to Incorporate bike paths, •
sidenles,and pedestrian access points
beyond those required.(AD4 5).
THE PALM.SPRINGS PATH TOA SUSTAINABLE_COMMUNITY Draft March 17,2009 26
— -.
•
•
• .�)1.JJ W �L L' � Sv'Si •-,� �L51 I ,/ sll Ir" I �� _) —•� r- �Iyi_ w
• OBJECTIVE 2:
Promote smartgrowth and transportation choice.
• 1. Engage the Green Team and Sustainability Commission to review the City General Plan,
zoning and development ordinances for compliance with SB 375 and identify additional
• opportunities to promote efficient,sustainable development practices.
• 2. Evaluate effectiveness of General Plan action CD1.3(Implement a program to address
the maintenance of vacant lots)and develop an implementing ordinance to encourage,
temporary uses of vacant land within the City to encourage urban amenities such as
• parks,demonstration gardens,community supported agriculture and renewable energy
• development.
• 3.Adopt an ordinance addressing the aesthetics of infill sites during permitting associated
with demolition and design.
4.Consider expanding General Plan policy to encourage all, notjust large employers to
• adopt incentive programs that include ridesharing, preferential parking for rideshares,
telecommuting,flex hours, bike racks and other amenities to promote commuting patterns
• other than single occupancy vehicles.
• 5.Amplify and augment efforts to encourage developers to provide facilities such as carpools
• and van pools and bicycle parking facilities.
6. Engage Green Team and Sustainability Commission members in strategies to implement
• General Plan goal to "Reduce the City's dependence on the use of single-passenger
• vehicles by enhancing mass transit opportunities." Including associated policies and actions.
• OBJECTIVE 3:
Promote alternative,sustainable transportation options and infrastructure using alternative
• modes,fuels and vehicles,
1.Adopt a policy to transform the full municipal fleet conversion to clean fuel vehicles.
. 2.Participate in the regional non-motorized transportation plan implementation, including
• annual expansion of the existing system.
3.Dedicate a portion of the transportation budget to go to pedestrian and cyclist amenities.
• 4.Develop a clean airport shuttle service to major destinations within the City and Valley.
. 5. Develop partnerships with local public health agencies and hospitals to promote biking and
walking as alternatives to vehicle trips when weather permits.
• 6. Require clear signage and pedestrian access to parking at trail heads.
• 7. Investigate the feasibility of car-sharing(e.g.,Zipcar)in the City and at the airport.
8. Explore and evaluate a City-wide bike rental program with outlets located at major
destinations similar to the Velib bike share program in Paris.
• 9. Develop ordinances allowing neighborhood electric vehicles(e.g, golf cans and other
similar vehicles)as a mode of travel on appropriate routes in the City.
• 10.Develop a strategy to support development of the electric vehicle infrastructure including
charging stations at City-owned parking facilities and incentivize private development of
electric vehicle plug-in infrastructure.
• 11. Explore and evaluate feasibility of alternative energy fuel production and fueling stations in
• Palm Springs.
•
• THE PALM SPRINGS PATH.TOA.SUSTAINABLE OOMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 27
•
•
CHAPTER 4 •
•
CONTEXT •
As predicted by the US National Academy of Sciences in 2008, global climate change will
have wide ranging negative impacts on Palm Springs and the entire desert southwest. •
Indications are that global temperatures could rise by up to 11 degrees in the next hundred .
years. In addition, a recently released study by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric .
Administration(NOAA)documents the long term impacts of climate change with specific
indication that the desert Southwest is in particular danger. The recently released UC Berkeley
California Climate Risk and Response report also identifies wide ranging impacts including: •
• Water scarcity •
• Risk to hydroelectric energy sources •
• Energy supply and timing of demand •
• Transportation disruption
• Travel and tourism viability •
• Wild Gres and storms impacts on real estate
• Agriculwre,forests, and fisheries productivity
• Public health •
•
WHAT ARE GREENHOUSE GASES Greenhouse gmindudecarbon
Greenhouse gases are naturally occurring emissions that help trap heat within our atmosphere dloade(002)and melhanc These
and allow the planet to maintain a temperature suitable for life. Increasing human activity has gaesareproclumd:sansutollbummp •
resulted in increasing green house gases beyond their naturally occurring state,resulting in a fomilfunlst produmelectnmfy,iohrat
phenomenon (mown as global warming. our homesandtoperourvehlcles. •
Mellune is a hynroduct of organicnaele
The Cali Fornia Risk Assessment and other reports call for bold action to address the human andsewagedec rnposmon •
causes of climate changes. In addition,California participates in The Western Climate Initiative .
that was created to identify,evaluate, and implement collective and cooperative ways to reduce •
greenhouse gases in the region,focusing on a market-based cap-and-trade system.
•
However extensive the impacts of climate change on the desert Southwest are likely to be, the •
UC Berkeley report suggests that climate policies can stimulate economic growth by providing
incentives for investment in new technologies. •
•
Three California laws are paramount to understanding the implications of climate change .
policy:
•
• AB 32,the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006, requires reduction of green .
house gases to 1990levels by 2020,which represents a 25%reduction.A California executive •
order further mandates an 80%reduction by 2050.California is required to develop a
comprehensive approach to reducing greenhouse gases. The Air Resources Board's Scoping ,
Plan outlines the main strategies California will use to reduce the greenhouse gases(GHG) .
that cause climate change.The Scoping Plan includes a range of GHG reduction actions
which include direct regulations,alternative compliance mechanisms, monetary and non- •
monetary incentives,voluntary actions,and market-based mechanisms such as a cap-and-
trade system. .
•
•
-THE-PALM SPRINGS PATII TOASUSTAINABEE,COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 28
•
•
■
•
. CONTEXT(CONT.)
. •SB 97 requires the Office of Planning and Research by July 1,2009,to prepare and transmit
to the Resources Agency amendments to the California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA)
guidelines to assist public agencies in the mitigation of GHG emissions or the effects of GHG
• including the effects associated with transportation and energy consumption.
• SB 375 is the nation's first polity to integrate four planning processes- land-use planning,
. transportation planning, housing development and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions
focused on the use of incentives. By addressing greenhouse gas emissions in the aggregate,
from these sources at the regional planning level, a new system is designed to avoid
conducting duplicative, project-specific CEOA greenhouse gas analysis and mitigation
• strategies. In addition,the legislation provides the opportunity for the Coachella Valley to
. develop a regional plan separate from the Southern California Association of Governments
(SCAG). By June 1, 2009 the regional planning agency Coachella Valley Association of
Governments(CVAG)is required to decide whether to opt into an eight year planning cycle
S for the act.
COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES
Palm Springs can position the City to profit from the changes underway in California. Innovations
• in climate change,clean technology, energy efficiency and renewable energy can address
S several pressing environmental challenges while bringing economic benefits to the region. See
also related chapters on economic development and energy.
• California is a national leader in addressing Climate Change. Building on this leadership,there
are many opportunities forthe Coachella Valley communities to work together to develop
strategies to address climate change.
The production and use of energy is the single most significant driver of GHG emissions in a
community; about 40%of fossil fuel combustion emissions,the primary GHG source, is from
the residential and commercial end-use sectors(US EPA, 2007). Palm Springs should address
• Climate Change through aggressive actions to improve energy efficiency and encourage
renewable energy, encourage multimodal transportation,encouraging green building and the
reduction of waste and recycling of waste.
• The City has already begun retrofitting traffic lights with Light-Emitting Diode(LED)to enhance
. energy efficiency and durability. Research has shown LEDs to be brighter, longer lasting and Cost
effective. Synchronizing traffic lights and incorporating permissive Icft turn lanes is another area
targeted for improvement by the City. Synchronization and permissive left turn lanes increase
. travel speed without road widening, reduces traffic congestion and air emissions and cut
. commute times.
By modeling these kinds of positive changes,the City will influence others to make the kinds
• of changes necessary to reduce green house gases and positively influence carbon emission
reduction efforts overall-
THE.PALM_SPRINGS PATH-To A SUSTAINAELt'COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 29
GOAL: Palm Springs is carbon neutral.
GF,NERAL PLAN •
. , : . . . . - Goals: GUIDANCE •
•Carbon footprint. Inventory of carbon dioxide production sources forthe City
•Improve regional air quality •
government,Palm Springs municipal boundary,and the Coachella Valley for energy to protect the health of the
supply,transportation,real estate(residential,industrial and commercial). community.(Aei) .
•Greenhouse gas emissions reductions targets forthe building industry by sectors: •Encourage energy efficiency
municipal,commercial and residential- and conservation n land •
P use,transportation demand
management,subdivision,and •
building design.(RC 8.3)
-Encourage"green
technologies",renewable
• • • • . • energy and related activities as
a business development goal. .
•Adopting Ma or's Climate Change Resolution in March 2008- Encourage
ura .
p 9 Y 9- •Encourage cogeneration
•Adopting Coachella Valley Association of Government Regional facillties.(RC 8,15) .
Resolution to reduce energy use by 10%by 2012. I policies
•Adopting city goal to reduce energy use by 20%by 2012, Facilitate the orderly and
•Two cogeneration plants use natural gas to produce,and supply powerto efficient development of wind .
city facilities,including the airport, I energy resources and regulate
• LED lights are in use in traffic signals throughout the City and all taxi areas then location,operation,and .
management(RC8.1).
and runways at Palm Springs International Airport. Support and encourage the use
of alternative energy sources---
and generating industries •
to provide more reliability
in the supply of electricity
to the City and to promote .
the development of clean,
sustainable,and alternative .
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIONS energy industries In the City.
(RC8.2). •
OBJECTIVE 1: •
Establish a baseline inventoryand forecast, ongoing tracking and nDevelo
� g � •Develop Incentives that •
reporting mechanism for GHG emissions. encourage local businesses
to incorporate emissions •
reduction measures that go
1. Develop a comprehensive GHG emissions Inventory for City government and the City beyond those required or •
of Palm Springs geographic area in partnership with other area governments. recommended by SCACMD,
2. Annually inventory and report GHG emissions so that reductions can be tracked in a SSAe,and the City.Such
ude
transparent, consistent and accurate manner. incentives streamht lining.
g.priority
P penndstreamlinmg,priority
processing,orfee reductions. •
(AC1.3)
•Implement energy conservation .
practices In existing buildings
and subdivision design by •
enforcing energy efficiency
standards,solar energy
development regulatlons, •
incorporabon of alternative
energy sources and •
conservation practices
at all public facilities;and •
other practices as deemed
appropriate.(RC8.5). •
i
THE:PALM SPRINGS-PATH-To A-SUSTAINABI:E.COMMUNITX DRAFT March25,2009 30
•
•
• OBJECTIVES AND ACTIONS (CONT.)
•
• OBJECIVE 2:
Develop strategies to reduce contributions to GHG emissions to 1990
. levels by 2020 and carbon neutrality by 2030.
• 1. Develop a local climate change action plan to reduce GHGs for Palm Springs.
• 2. Retrofit and install Light-Emitting Diode (LED) energy efficient lighting in all of the City's
• traffic lights
3. Improve city-wide traffic signalization, including permission left turn lanes.
• 4. Lead a valley-wide effort to improve traffic signalization and incorporate permission left
• turn lanes throughout the Coachella Valley.
5. Review current zoning and building codes to minimize the impact of GHG.
• b. Participate in the development and implementation of regional strategies to meet the
. requirements of A332.
• 7. Establish incentives and disincentives to reduce production of GHGs by sectors in the
City(such as energy production,transportation and real estate residential, commercial,
• and industrial).
• S. Participate in a regional carbon offset program, carbon trading or "cap and trade"
• system to capture funding for local/regional actions to reduce contributions to GHGs_
•
• OBJECTIVE 1 Pursue energy efficient transportation options that reduce GHG emissions
• 1 Reduce employee vehicle miles traveled in city vehicles by promoting teleconFerences
and the availability of alternative transportation options for business and trips.
• 2. Encourage telecommuting and flexible hours policies to avoid at least one commuting
day per month per employee (average).
• 3.Work with the building industry to reduce vehicle trips to and from construction sites.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
THE PALM SPRINGS PATH TOA-SUSTAINABCE(COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 31
•
•
•
CHAPTER 5 •
CONTEXT •
•
NATIONAL ENERGY SITUATION •
Many analyses continue to document the Nation's dependency on foreign sources of oil and •
to a lesser extent natural gas. This dependency has major consequences for our economy,
environment and national security. Every dollar sent overseas is a dollar not spent in the US. •
Thomas Friedman has documented this case in detail and argues that a strategy of energy
efficiency and renewable energy development will benefit our economy, communities, •
environment and national security.
•
In addition,carbon dioxide emissions account for roughly 72%of all greenhouse gas emissions. S
Fossil fuel combustion(petroleum, natural gas and coal)from electricity generation and •
transportation makes up the largest category of carbon emissions in the world.
•
CALIFORNIA ENERGY SITUATION •
Because of aggressive measures undertaken to conserve and develop alternative energy, the
average 2005 monthly electricity bill in California was almost half that of Texas and two-thirds
the average bill in Florida. .
Recent work by researchers at UC berkeley concludes,that California's residential low energy
use is real.The report states that from 1970 to 2004, California decreased its annual residential •
energy consumption by 35%while other states increased- Alternative explanations including •
weather, income,prices and economic structure account for at most 15%. California has
implemented efficiency programs and standards that'have yielded increasing electricity savings
totaling about 120 MW per year compared to 500 MW for the three major investor-owned
utilities. In addition,projected savings associated with recently adopted updates to California's •
energy efficiency standards for buildings and appliances are expected to eliminate the need for •
five giant power plants in the next 10 years.
•
The California Green Innovation Index finds that total Gross Domestic Product(GDP)produced •
per unit of energy(energy productivity)is 68%higher in California than the rest of the nation,
which generates billions for the local economy. Since 2005,statewide green jobs have grown •
at a rate 10 times faster than total job growth. Green tech venture capital investment nearly •
doubled in one year, hitting an all-time high of S3.3 billion in 2008,capturing 57%of the •
national total.
•
California has benefited both economically and environmentally from a first wave of green '
innovation as a result of increasing energy efficiency since the 1970s- .
PALM SPRINGS ENERGY SITUATION
Like many Southern California cities,Southern California Edison(SCE)is the electricity providerfor •
Palm Springs. Natural gas is supplied by Southern California Gas Company. Oil is provided through
a variety of global oil companies. It is well understood that oil and natural gas prices have been •
difficult to predict based on global forces of supply and demand,political instability and the use •
of resources(e.g.,use of natural gas a preferred fuel to generate eledidrty. For example,natural gas •
prices rose from under S1 per thousand cubic feet in 1970to$12 per Thousand cubic feet in 2005. Most
•
- - -
`THE PALM-SPRINGS PATH:TOA.SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 32 •
•
•
•
•
• everyone realizes that prices for gasoline have been highly volatile.
. The City imports the vast majority of its energy supply. Imparting energy results in the direct
outflow of large amounts of valuable capital to energy companies and foreign suppliers- California
• law requires electricity providers to furnish customers with power content labels which provide
. information on the mix of resources used to generate electricity. Southern California Edison's mix for
Palm Springs is 50%natural gas,21%nuclear, 16%renewables,8%coal and 5%large hydro-electric.
• This indicates there is a significant opportunity to replace non-renewable resources with renewables.
•
• The largest consumers of electricity in Palm Springs include,in descending order:residences,office
buildings,hotels and motels,water agencies,all other commercial,hospitals,retail and restaurants.
• This mix allows a focus on real estate and buildings as a major focus
The price of electricity in Palm Springs is relatively high because of summer air conditioning peak
power requirements and the current California rate structure-
With the national and state focus on reducing greenhouse gas production,reducing imported
energy,developing renewable energy sources and saving money for customers,the time has come
• to develop an aggressive new sustainable energy approach for Palm Springs.
•
. COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
There are two key strategies to reduce the consumption of electric energy replace non-renewable
• with renewable energy and increase the efficiency of energy use With its abundant sunshine and
. wind resources,Palm Springs has significant opportunities to produce more renewably generated
• energy.
• The first place to start is increasing the efficiency of current electrical energy use.
. In this area,Palm Springs has considerable opportunity,working with partners,to
• increase its energy efficiency. Estimates indicate that the cost of energy efficiency
measures are approximately three cents per kilowatt hour compared to an average
• of 10 cents per kilowatt hour for new power generation.These savings are even
. more significant when considering: "Promote energy
• •Lower prices efficiency first."
• •Local jobs forsuppliers and installers SustainabiliryWorkshop
•Reducing capital exports Participant
• •Improved marketvalue of real estate and savings to homeowners and businesses
• Potential for technological innovation
California has adopted energy policies that require substantial increases in
the generation of electricity from renewable energy resources.Governor
Schwarznegger issued an executive order in November 2008 establishing a 33 percent renewable
• energy target for the state by 2020-
The second focus for Palm Springs should be on substituting renewable,preferably local,for non-
renewable resources.Opportunities include:
•Passive solar/temperature regulation through green building design
•Installed solar water heaters
• • Installed solar power generation(photovoltaics and thin film)
• •Wind power generation
• THE PALM SPRINGS PATHnTOA_ STAINABLE COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 33
•
•
Wr
COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES AND OPPORTUNITIES (CONT.)
i„ENERAL PLAN
• District geothermal and ground source heating and cooling GUIDANCE •
• District water source heatingand cooling Goals;
coo 9 •Employ the efficient, •
• Power from waste(both methane from waste water treatment systems and from solid waste) sustainable and onvironmentally
• Low impact small-scale hydropower appropriate use and
•Advanced storage systems(flywheel, thermal, battery etc.) to address the intermittent supply management resources
of energy to ensur •
mineral resources to ensure
of solar and wind power their availability lorfuture
generations.(FICA)
Concerns about increasing costs,environmental impacts,grid security and other issues have led •Support and encourage the use •
of alternative energy sources.
many cities to pursue renewable energy options.While near term efforts are rightly placed upon (RC8.2) •
conservation strategies, the city also has an opportunity to pursue a longer term energy strategy •Encourage energyefficiency
that would position Palm Springs as a Renewable Energy City. The concept of a sustainable and conservation in land •
cityenvisions the community not as energy consumers; rather as net producers of energy use,ag men anon demand
Y 9Y P 9Y management,subdivision,and
The integration of solar energy into existing housing stock,through retrofits and renovation, building design.(RC 83) •
supports a reduced carbon footprint strategy as well as an increased energy security strategy. -Encourage"green
monetary incentives,voluntary actions, and market-based mechanisms such as a cap-and-trad technologies",renewablee energy and related activities as
system. a business development goal.
(RC 8.4)
•Encourage cogeneration .
facilities.(RC 8.15) •
•Coordinate with local utility
companies to explore the •
implementation of a district-
wide,heat-pump-generated .
cooling system to reduce
• _ • • . • _ dependency on individual •
air conditioning units that
consume high levels of energy.
•Adopting Mayors Climate Change Resolution in March 2008. (RCSs)
•Adopting Coachella Valley Association of Governments Resolution to
reduce energy use by 10%by 2012- Policies:
•Adopting City goal to reduce energy use b 20%and water use b 50% Facilitate the orderly and
p 9 tY9 9Y Y Y efficient development of wind .
by 2012. energy resources and regulate
•Two Co-Generation plants use natural gas to produce and supply power their location,operation,and •
management through the Wind •
to all City facilities,including the airport. Energy Conversion Systems
• LED lights used in all traffic signals throughout the City and all taxi areas Development Agreement, .
and runways at the Palm Springs airport. conditional-use permit process,
• Installing solar powered trash compactors in high traffic areas downtown and appropriate environmental •
to re lace over 150 trash containers resent) downtown which must be clearance. d encourage
p presently Suppotandencouragethc
emptied on a daily basis-reducing the CO2 emissions by over 70%, use of alternailve energy
•Wastewater treatment plant gas recovery system reduces fuel use, sources...and generating .
industnesto provide more
reliability in the supply of •
electricity to the City and to .
promote the development
of clean,sustainable,and
alternative energy industries in
the City.The use of altomative .
energy sources should also be
encouraged In the construction r
of new buildings and retrofit of
existing buildings.(RC8.2)
THE PALM SPRINGS_PATW-1,70A SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 34
•
•
GOAL: Palm Springs is a high efficiency, renewable energy city.
KEY DASHBOARD METRIC
•Per capita energy use compared to California average
. •Percent of energy from renewable sources
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIONS
OBJECTIVE 7.
Reduce local government and per capita energy consumption.
• 1. Evaluate contracting with an energy service company (ESCO) to evaluate municipal
operations from a systems perspective and develop, install and finance energy
efficiency projects.
. 2. Complete municipal building retrofits for energy efficiency, (including installation
i of Variable Frequency Devices, lights, window film and other energy conservation
measures) and integration of renewable energy technology.
• 3. Implement the pilot energy efficiency loan program focusing on energy efficiency
• benefits.
4. Secure funding and implement a community-wide energy efficiency loan program.
5. Explore and evaluate the potential energy savings from installation of solar hot water
• systems and electric water storage water heaters as an alternative to natural gas water
. storage backup systems.
6. Facilitate the auditing of top energy users and support implementation of
recommended actions to reduce use and increase efficiency.
. 7. Evaluate impact of new Title 24 requirements in concert with the potential adoption of a
Residential Energy Conservation Ordinance (RECO Ordinance) and Commercial Energy
• Conservation Ordinance(CECO Ordinance).
• OBJECTNE 2.
. Support development of local and regional renewable electric power
generation including onsite solar and, where appropriate, use clean
• distributed generation to supply base load electricity.
• 1. Explore and evaluate a joint venture with third party providers and/or other public partners to
. implement a public/private solar roof initiative designed to maximize the installation of solar
systems on public,residential and commercial rooftops in Palm Springs.
2.Aggressively pursue state legislation to reduce barriers to residential and commercial
• installations of solar e-g,feed in tariffs.
. 3.Adopt a Palm Springs Solar Incentive and Rebate Program—Waive or reimburse permit fees
associated with installation of solar units.
4- Hold demonstration workshops for city permitting and inspection staff to enhance
• understanding and familiarity with renewable and new technology and installation
procedures.
• 5. Explore and evaluate the potential for a pilot district energy system to focus on local and
• shared power generation and resource exchange for educational campuses, institutional
facilities,tourist destinations and neighborhoods.
• THE PALM SPRINGS-PATH TC A SUST.4_INABLE OMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 35
•
•
•
CHAPTER 6
•
CONTEXT •
Palm Springs'name identifies the desert oasis and special place where the California Fan Palm •
thrives,fed by underground springs. What makes Palm Springs unique is its world famous •
visitor facilities location within a stunningly beautiful and complex ecosystem. •
Palm Springs is located on the western edge of the Sonoran Desert protected by Mt.San
Jacinto and the Santa Rosa Mountains, nestled in the Coachella Valley The Sonoran Desert •
ecosystem is arid,starkly beautiful and has a sunny climate and diverse set of plants and .
desert wildlife.The greatest threat to this ecosystem is urbanization. From 1973 to 2000, the
US Geological Survey estimates that urbanization consumed 481 square kilometers of Sonoran •
Desert landscape across the Southwest.Although urbanization has major impact on the desert, •
the rate of change compared to other Western ecosystems has been relatively small
•
Palm Springs'special character is identified not only by the desert but by the backdrop of the •
San Jacinto Peak and the Santa Rosa Mountains. The mountains and the transition to the peak •
include a range of ecosystem types.
• Sonora Desert with its creosote and brittlebush,sycamore and other plant communities, •
• Lowland Cienega with underground springs that provide a fertile environment of cottonwood, •
sycamore and the emblematic California Fan Palm.
• Lower Transitional above 4,000 feet with scrub oak,mountain mahogany, Manzanita,wild •
lilacs and junipers. •
• Upper Transitional zones blanketed with conifers at the world-famous Aerial Tram Mountain •
Station.
•
The Agua Caliente band of Cahuilla Indians(Aqua Caliente Tribe)are a major influence on the •
region with their original 31,500 acre reservation substantially developed. They are responsible •
for major oases including Palm, Murray and Andreas Canyons that are famous for their Palm
tree oases and the richness of the 150 species of plants and animals that live there.
According to the Palm Springs General Plan,the city owns and maintains 156 acres of •
developed parkland, 160 acres of City-awned golf courses open to the public, as well as •
miles of developed greenbelts along major thoroughfares throughout the City.There are 80 .
miles of trails that provide hiking, equestrian and recreational uses for residents and visitors. •
The Recreation, Open Space and Conservation element of the General Plan details plans by
regional partners to protect and enhance regional ecosystems including: •
•The Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Management Plan addresses •
the recreational assets on land owned by the Bureau of Land Management. •
•The State of California Department of Parks and Recreation has also adopted a recreation
plan for the San Jacinto State Park.
•Aqua Caliente Tribal Habitat Conservation Plan. •
•Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan.
• Species plans subject to the Endangered Species Act. •
•
•
•
•
THE PALM SPRINGS PATH-TOA.SUSTAINABh_E-ODMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 36
•
•
•
•
. CONTEXT(CONT.)
• In addition,the General Plan addresses several goals and policies related to City's connection to
the regional ecosystem•
• Parks and recreation
• •Golf courses GENERAL PLAN
• •Greenbelts GUIDANCE
Goals:
• •Trail networks •Develop a strategy to
•Natural resources—biological species, habitats and wildlife corridors incorporate suslainabilily
• • Biologically sensitive and conservation areas principles and practices rate
9 Y golf course and park design and
. maintenance.(CR6)
• COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES Estahlish the city as the premier
provider of recreational trails
. The regional ecosystem and City parks,trails, and open spaces are the foundational element and bikeways in the Coachella
for the quality of life of Palm Springs,the tourism economy and provide a natural setting that is Valley.(CPS)
• unparalleled in the Desert Southwest. Sustainability,actions outlined below help position Palm Provide acomprehensivctrail
Springs to close) connect and nurture its vision of the City as an oasis to the surrounding larger natural envirat onment.
sensitive to the
Y � g g natural environment,will
. desert ecosystem, and habitat,culture and history,
and recreational and circulation
needs of• • residents.Supportthe preservation)
. and protection of biological
resources,especially sensitive,
• rare,threatened,or endangered
species,wildlife,or habilals.
. (RC7).
• Policies:
• •Support local and regional
efforts to evaluate,acquire,
• and protect natural habitats
for sensitive,threatened,and
• 1 STEPS ALREADY • • OR • endangered species occurring
in the City and vicinity.(RC7.1)
• •Multiple actions by partner organizations have been taken to plan for and •Actively participate with the
• protect the regional ecosystem and wildlife as described above. Coachella Valley Association
of Governments and member
• •The Palm Spring General Plan provides goals and polices to enhance the agencies to support the
City's open space, parks and habitats. identification,monitoring,
• •Open space acquisitions provided habitat,improved air quality and and preservation of important
• enhanced recreational opportunities. biological resources.(RC7.2)
•Wellness Park developed in cooperation with Desert Healthcare District, Actions:
• Palm Springs Unified School Districtand Desert Water Agency features Resolve any inconsistencies
demonstration gardens and low water use landscaping-The Park also between the and the
Master Plan
• g P g- of Bikeways and the CVAG
Non-features walking track and exercise stations. Motorized Transportation Plan
•Re-vegetating public landscapes including pilot projects in City medians. (NMTP),and adopt the CVAG
• •Goals to increase public access to trails with new trailheads. NMTR(CR Prepare a Reecrcr
p • eation and
• •Community clean-up efforts throughout the City including the Tahquitz Trails Management Plan that is
. Creek neighborhood project. consistent with regional habitat
conservation plans.(RC4.2).
. •Implement the provisions of
the Coachella Valley Multiple
• Species Habitat Conservation
Plan and the Tribal Habitat
. Conservation Plan.(RC7.1).
• THE PALM SPRINGS PATH TOA SUSTAINAl3L COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 37
....__ —
•
•
� j - -
GOAL:Access to open space, recreation and natural resources is
ensured for all residents, employees and visitors.
-No net loss to conservation areas identified in the Coachella Valley Multi-species
Habitat Conservation Plan. •
• Number of miles of public access trails.
• Number of miles of bike and walking paths.
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIONS
OBJECTIVE 1:
Promote access to sustainable, open space, recreation .
and natural resources.
1. Create and implement a plan to ensure that all residences live within a 20 minute walk
of a park, school, source of food, open space and/or community garden. •
2. Enhance public trails access by securing parking, placing trailhead markers and
promoting use via directional signage, maps and we'osite.
3. Develop an action plan and budget to establish the City as the premier provider cF •
recreational trails and bikeways in the Coachella Valley- •
4. Implement sustainability, principles and practices into gcIF course and park design and
maintenance.
OBJECTIVE 2: .
Support regional partners' efforts to protect and enhance regional
ecosystems.
1.Work cooperatively with the Aqua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indian Tribe, Bureau of .
Land Management, US Forest Service, State of California Department of Parks and
Recreation, local and regional conservation groups and others to implement plans to
protect and enhance elements of regional ecosystems- •
2. Continue to work cooperatively with regional partners to implement the CVMSHCP.
THE.Il' SPRINGS PATH TO A SUST_AINABLE'COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 38 •
•
•
CHAPTER 7
• CONTEXT
• CALIFORNIA AND PALM SPRINGS
• In 1989,California passed the Integrated Waste Management Act(AB 939)to reduce the waste
• stream and demand on landfills.The Act required municipalities to cut waste in half by the year
• 2000.Achieving this goal entailed reducing consumption,reusing materials,recycling,composting
and buying products made from recycled material.
• The California Integrated Waste Management Board promotes Zero Waste California,a campaign
to get cities,counties and residents to change their goal from "reduce,re-use,recycle"to creating
• zero waste communities.They also provide public education and links to local resources for a variety
• of programs such as materials exchange,electronics or e-waste,recycling and hazardous household
• waste disposal.
• California's recycling industry now accounts for 85,000 jobs.It generates$4 billion yearly in salaries
• and wages,and produces$10 billion worth of goods and services annually.Recycling has become a
• viable,mainstream industry that is equivalent to the size of the motion picture industry in California
• The City of Palm Springs has a very successful residential recycling program,diverting 67%of
• household waste and ranking third out of 24 cities in Riverside County By weight,newsprint,paper,
mixed glass and cardboard are the most collected materials.
•
• One challenge Facing the City's recycling programs are fluctuating commodity values of materials
• gathered,which affect the ability of the City or waste management agency to sell these goods for
recycling. The prices of commodities have gone up and down with the fate of the global economy.
China is a major end user of waste-related commodities from the entire West Coast,
The City has many efforts underway to increase waste recycling and re-use.Future efforts are
centered on expanding residential recycling to multi-family residences,winter-only resider s,
. homeowners associations(HOAs)and commercial development,using waste as a resource and
. seeking economic opportunities associated with these efforts-
ZERO WASTE
•
. Zero waste is based on the concept that wasting any resources is inefficient and that we should
achieve efficient use of natural resources.This involves reducing the production of waste,
• maximizing existing recycling and reuses efforts,while ensuring that products are designed for the
• environment and have the potential to be repaired,reused or recycled.
The success of zero waste requires that we redefine the concept of"waste" in our society.Typically,
• we have viewed waste as a by-product of production and consumption.A zero waste approach
• requires that waste be considered a residual product or potential resource.This entails using a
whole systems approach to designing products that do not become unusable,unmanageable or
• hazardous. Zero waste strategies consider the entire life-cycle of products including working to
• design wastes from one process to become inputs into another system.
• Zero Waste California expresses this as a shift from waste management to resource
• management
• THE PALM SPRINGS-PATH-TO A SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 39
•
•
yI h •
CONTEXT(CONT.)
A similar approach was proposed by William McDonough and Michael Braungart in their •
influential book Cradle to Cradle.They propose a model in which commerce and nature co-
exist without the hazards we generally associate with waste.Through ecologically intelligent
design, products can either biodegrade without leaving synthetic toxins or become "technical •
nutrients"—inputs into new dosed-loop industrial systems. .
In April 2008, China adopted a visionary law promoting its "circular economy" approach to
sustainable development.This proposed system of resource management includes cleaner ,
production and closed-loop systems on three levels—',the firm or business, industrial parks or •
related businesses and regions.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR PALM SPRINGS .
These new approaches to resource management and product design can create economic
opportunities For innovators and cost savings for households and businesses through increased
efficiency-
Resource conservation and recovery and resource development are strategies with the greatest
need for a strong local government role because these strategies require consumer investments
at the local level instead of producer investments by national and regional corporations and •
governments.Conservation decisions tend strongly to be decentralized while production •
decisions tend strongly to be very centralized.
Getting to zero waste is more than asking how we deal with the garbage we've got. It is also •
about how we handle things upstream, at the point of product design and distribution. If waste
is designed out from the start we eliminate the throwaway end product as well as the materials,
time and energy required to get it there in the first place. .
Palm Springs is well-positioned to build on and expand its successful recycling programs to
shift towards becoming a zero waste community.This can be accomplished through the rapid
acceleration of aggressive waste reduction and re-use programs as well as adopting policies i
and finding opportunities to create closed-loop systems where waste from one source becomes
a food stock or input for another.
7.
I
-
THEPALM-SPRINGS.P_ATH:TOASUSTAINABLEODMMUNITY DRAFT March25,2009 40 .
•
•
e%`7ii LL�
•
. STEPS ALREADY ACCOMPLISHED OR UNDERWAY
•Diverting 67%,of waste in 2008,up from 40%in 1995.
• • Including over 14,000 households and 70 HOAs in residential recycling
program.
• • Recycling efforts for 100%of waste are currently underway at all City
• facilities,including collection and diversion of paper,battenes, ink GENERAL PLAN
. cartridges,cans,bottles,concrete,metal,green waste,fluorescent light GUIDANCE
bulbs,paints,oils,used tires and more. Goals,
• •Considering a draft ordinance to require 100%diversion of all •Decrease the risk of exposure
• construction and debris waste. of life,property,and the
environment to hazardous
•Sponsoring two free events per year to collect electronic waste.Over and toxic materials and waste.
• 50,000 lbs.of a-waste collected per event. (SA1)
• •Solartrash receptacles being installed downtown and throughout the policies:
• City. Trash compactors will result in estimated 70%reduction in emissions •Utilize municipal sewage and
related to City vehicles servicing receptacles. solid wastes as an alternative
• • Providing information on websitc,CCTV and distributed to resident energy source.(RC8.14)
• including recycling wheels,recycling brochures,construction and Promote the proper disposal,handling,transport,delivery,
. demolition debris brochures,information on composting classes, treatment,recovery,recycling,
household hazardous waste(HH4V)collection,used oil collection and and storage of hazardous
•
more. materials in accordance with
applicable federal,state,and
. •Holding two free events per year for paper shredding.over three tons local regulations.(SA1.1)
• of paper is collected at each event. Two neighborhood clean-up events Actions:
offered per year •Achieve the mandated waste
reduction and recycling
• •Using 100%environmentally friendly service-ware products that are bio- objectives set forth by the
• degradable or can be composted at Convention Center- California Integrated Waste
•Sending used computer electronics to Computer Tech program at Management Board and
• Cathedral City High School. implomenta program to recycle
construction and demolition
• •Approved recycling plans for the airport and the Convention Center debris,in particularconerete
enabling the City to move one step closer to recovering food scraps from and gravel products.(RC8.4)
• these locations- •Compile and maintain an
inventory of all hazardous waste
• •Gathering unused client product and material gathered at the Convention sites in the City.(SAM)
• Center following all events for donation to local charities.
• Providing sCreet sweeping program to remove dust and debris material
• deposited at sand source locations.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
THE PALM SPRINGS PATH TO A SUSTAIN 4Bl E COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 41
•
•
•
GOAL: Palm Springs is a zero waste community and model for resource
management and closed loop resource streams- •
!
•Percent of households, Homeowner Associations and commercial establishments •
participating in recycling program I •
•Tons of waste collected from residential recycling program and bi-annual events.
Percent of waste recycled. Percent of electronic waste taken back by manufactures •
or recycled. !
•Per capita waste •
•Number and type of local businesses using local waste streams as inputs.
•
•
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIONS •
OBJECTIVE 1: •
Reduce waste and increase recycling for all segments of the •
community.
!
1. Identify waste reduction programs and purchasing options that will allow residents and
businesses to be essentially waste Free. !
2- Expand commercial recycling for businesses in the City, including adding incentives and
mandates on waste diversion. -
3. Provide an economic incentive for residents to reduce waste and recycle more. !
4. Reduce residential waste pick up to once a week. •
5. Evaluate feasibility of creating a commercial food composting program.
6. Develop an ordinance requiring the diversion of construction and demolition waste. •
7. Expand Homeowner Association, multi-family residences, and seasonal resident •
participation in the residential recycling program participation.
8.Work with Palm Springs Unified School District to educate and promote recycling and •
make schools essentially zero waste facilities.
9. Establish a permanent Household Hazardous Waste and electronics recycling center •
facility to provide the community a continuous opportunity to properly dispose of these
waste products and increase the potential for repair and reuse.
•
OBJECTIVE 2: !
Create closed-loop systems in which waste from one source becomes
the supply for another.
1. Inventory targeted existing businesses' waste stream and identify opportunities to •
match waste with businesses that can use them as inputs. !
2. Recruit businesses to Palm Springs who can use these waste streams as inputs.
3.Work with existing businesses to define resource flows for opportunities to improve
internal resource reuse. •
4 Implement a food waste program for local restaurants and research the potential for •
composting businesses that use food waste.
•
•
THE_PALMsP_RINGS:PATH-TOA SUSTAINAULk-COMMUNITY DRAFT March25,2009 42
•
•
•
• '; ',`'i _ CHAPTER 8
i
• CONTEXT
WATER SUPPLY
The State of California began 2009 in the midst of what is being called the "worst drought in
• modern history,"with an average snowwater content of61%throughout the state, following on a
• dry spring in 2008- Due to this drought,the State of California's Department of Water Resources
(CDWR)estimates that it only will be able to deliver 15%of requested water under the State Water
• Project program to the Bay Area,San Joaquin Valley,Central Coast and Southern California in
• 2009. Even if the 2009 drought eases,the situation is unlikely to improve in the long term due to the
effects of climate change.See Climate Change chapter for more information
. Desert Water Agency(DWA)provides water to the City of Palm Springs.Public water agencies
• prepare an Urban Water Management Plan every five years,which identifies historic and projected
water usage,identifies existing and future water supply sources,describes purveyors'demand
management programs,and sets forth a program to meet water demands during normal,dry and
. multiple dry years.More recently,adjoining water suppliers have begun collaborating on integrated
• regional plans.
Supplementing natural groundwater replenishmentwah artificial recharge is necessaryto reduce
• annual and cumulative overdraft- Increases in cumulative overdraft,without aru6cial recharge,
will result in declining groundwater levels and increasing pump lifts,thereby increasing energy
• consumption for groundwater extraction.
•
• Palm Springs and the surrounding watershed rely on the artificial recharge from the Colorado River
to maintain its groundwater levels,either directly from the river or through trading State Water
Project entitlements to obtain water from the river. However,even though the DWA and CVWD
• are legally entitled to the Colorado River through 2035,there is not lil(ely to be enough water in the
• Colorado River to meet all of its entitlements. In addition,deliveries of State Water Project water
are not guaranteed.While 100%of the water requested in 2006 was eventually delivered,the initial
• allocation for 2007 was only 60%. Prior to the drought declared at the beginning of 2009,the CDWR
• expected only to deliver 35%over the 2008/2009 fiscal year-Recently,deliveries were reduced to
15%allocation-
•
• WASTEWATER TREATMENT
• The City contracts with Veolia Water North America to operate a comprehensive wastewater
treatment program,including a City-owned,10.9 million gallon per day(mgd)trickling filter
wastewater treatment plant,five pump stations and sewer collection pipelines.
Recycling wastewater is an important water conservation strategy for Palm Springs,because it
reduces the amount of potable water used for irrigation-DWA operates a wastewater recycling
• facility.The City provides primary and secondary treated domestic sewage to DWA,who then
• provides tertiary treatment.The recycled water is then used to irrigate public facilities such as the
. Tahcutz Creek Golf Course,DeMuth Park and the Mesquite Golf Course.
•
•
• THE-PALM SPRINGS PAT H..TOA SUSTAINABLECOMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 43
•
•
CONTEXT(CONT.) •
WATER CONSERVATION IN LANDSCAPING
The Water Conservation in Landscaping Act of 2006(A[31881, Laird)requires the California .
Department of Water Resources(DWR)to prepare an updated model State Water Efficient •
Landscape Ordinance for improving the efficiency of water use in new and existing urban irrigated
landscapes in California by January 1,2009, That model,ordinance has been finalized and distributed
to local agencies who are required to adopt,not later than January 1,2010,a local model water •
efficient landscape ordinance that is at least as effective in conserving water as the State Model GENERAL PLAN •
Ordinance- Jurisdictions failing to submit such an ordinance are subject to the states Model GUIDANCE
Ordinance by statute- Goals: i
•Ensure an adequate supply of
quality water is provided to the .
KEY ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES City.(RC9). .
The Coachella Valley and Palm Springs water supply is vulnerable as long as it depends on Policies:
lenishment from outside sources- The State of California's Water Plan Update 2009 includes A Work with the Desert Water
rc .
p P Agency,Ceachclla valley water
several strategies for managing an uncertain water future,including understanding existing District,and Mission Springs .
uncertainties,anticipating change,assessing water risk and incorporating more sustainable water Water District to ensure that
supplyand floodmana management stems. sufflcient quantity and quality
•
9 Y of potable water is available for
current and future residential,
Water conservation and reuse strategies ultimately reduce impacts on the entire system to achieve business,and visitor uses.
the most use from the least amount of water with the least impact. (RC9.1)
•Encourage the responsible •
management and use of water
As Palm Springs continues to grow and thrive,it should continue to collaborate with its water resources through appropriate •
providers to enhance water security and support aggressive water efficiency strategies and practices. water conservatlon measures,
financial Incentives,and .
A path towards water independence includes the following: regulations.(RC9.2)
•An assessment of water risk and a strategy to securing'local water sources. •Ensure the highest quality •
•Sustainable strategies to protect water sources from stormwater runoff and other sources of of potable water resources •
pollution,climate change and other adverse effects. continues to be available by
P 9 managing stormwater runoff, .
•A plan for conservation and reuse of water that allows the community to continue to grow,yet use wellhead protection,septic.
only as much water as its local sources can support. tanks,and other potenlial •
souroes of pollutants.(1109.3)
Actions: .
•Enact ordinances that promote
water conservation In existing •
. . . . • • . facilities,and that make water
conservation a mandatory •
Palm Springs has already taken a leadership position toward water conservation and reuse, requirement forall new
includingthe actions: development(CR 101.1)
.
9 •Develop and implement an
• Participate on the Energy and Water Conservation Subcommittee of the Resource integrated water-conservatlon •
Conservation Commission to evaluate opportunities for water and energy conservation. program
• Partial rebate available for residents who purchase low-flush toilets.
•Reclaimed water in use on two municipal golf courses—Tahquitz Creek and Mesquite-
DeMuth Pad(and Indian Canyons Golf Resort also use recycled water. •
•Artificial turf being installed in some City's medians- ' .
• Low water use fixtures and landscaping incorporated at Convention Center,
- - _
THE PALM SPRINGS-PATH_T_O A_SUSTAINABL"E COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 44 .
•
'•cam,Id i 77
COAL: Palm Springs is a leader in water efficiency and reuse.
KEY DASHBOARD METRIC
• •Water supply availability forecast
• •Water consumption per capita
• •Total water used for City operations
-Potable
• -irrigation
• •Gallons of water reused by golf courses per year
•
• OBJECTIVES AND ACTIONS
• OBJECTIVE 1:
• Support efforts to ensure a secure water supply for the future.
• 1. Schedule a study session to review a risk assessment of the Palm Springs water supply
• to understand its vulnerability, including all water sources and the potential effect of
• influences such as climate change and population growth on that supply.
• 2.Work with local water agencies to lower the risk of the City's water supply, including
increased efficiency, grey water use, and water reuse.
. OBJECTIVE 2-
• Reduce water use in City facilities.
• 1.Work with the DWA to finalize baseline and finish auditing water use at all City facilities.
• 2. Using the water audit, identify the sources of highest water use at City facilities and
. develop an action plan, timeline and budget to reduce municipal use and increase
efficiency.
3. Review and revise current landscaping and irrigation policies and practices io reflect
. water efficiency practices.
• OBJECTIVE 3-
• Reduce water usage per capita in Palm Springs.
1. Collaborate with local water agencies to promote and implement water conservation
measures in Palm Springs.
• 2.Work with the DWA to increase the reach of their public information campaign
• targeting multi family, HQA and commercial users.
• 3. Promote money saving benefits and extend existing incentives to encourage property
owners to install smart irrigation controllers.
•
•
• THE PALM SPRINGS PATH TOASUSTAINAB COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 45
•
•
I •
. .. .f J``.,d L�l_-.,.�� =,1' �'I _� I°�._,,.� II"�1.-,�i t f,� l��i�'��I!I-, �'' I �-.�'� •
•
Implementation of the Master Plan(Plan)and progress towards the Plan goals will be the shared .
responsibility of many parties.These include political leadership including the Mayor,City Council,
and Sustainability Commission;administration including the City Manager,Crffice of Sustainability
and Sustainability Coordinator,and all department managers as the Green Team.Other active •
contributors include the Leadership Council and other community partners. •
CITY COUNCIL
•Set the overall vision and direction. .
•Establish policy,set priorities and make funding decisions. •
•Evaluate ongoing outcomes and performance against goals
• Build support for goals through advocacy,outreach and partnerships.
CITY MANAGER •
•Responsible for embedding sustainability practices and principles into city government and operations.
•Overall responsibility for plan implementation,progress and outcomes. .
OFFICE OF SUSTAINABILITY •
•Responsible for day-to-day operations,coordination,communications, tracking and reporting.
•Oversee sustainability website creation and maintenance. •
•Provide staff support to Green Team,Sustainability Commission,and Leadership Council. •
• Lead community outreach and education efforts-
GREEN TEAM •
• Educate and train staff members on sustainability principles and practices. i
•Conduct sustainability assessments and develop internal action plans.
•Coordinate interdepartmental projects and plans. .
SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION •
•Recommend policy direction-
• Review and provide input on potential plans and actions. •
•Advocate for sustainability principles and actions.
•Regularly monitor progress and prepare an annual report card.
•Support outreach and education to stakeholders and partners. .
LEADERSHIP COUNCIL •
•Help advance the plan by advocating,collaborating and sharing resources.
•Adopt shared goals and objectives- .
•Advocate for the principles and collaborate on implementation. •
•Implement programs and projects and share results.
THE_PALM SPRINGS:PATH TIO-A SUSTAINABhE,COMMUNITY DRAFT March 25,2009 46
•
•
•
• pa�m�springs�
• C' Appendices
•
•
• City of Palm Springs Background Documents
• Steps We All Can Take
• • What We've Done Already
• • 20 First Steps on the Path to a Sustainable Community
• • Final Quick Start Actions
• • Example Leadership Council Resolution
• • Leadership Council Project Inventory
• Resources for the Future
•
• • Matrix of Action Plan
• • Operations Planning Workbook
. • Resources on Sustainability
• Examples from Other Areas
•
• • Best Practices Summary
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
palm springs •
path x ,
XlnYlunw'alYYrn4>t n. s X
Steps We (Cain All Take �
nE •
1. Use compact fluorescent light bulbs .
2. Spend more time outdoors •
3. Clean or replace your air conditioning filter
4. Conserve water
5. Reduce, reuse, recycle •
6. Use energy efficient appliances •
7. Turn off lights, computers, TV's when not in use •
8. Leave the car at home—bike, walk, carpool or
take the bus •
9. Incorporate shade into your landscape
10. Install insulation in your home •
11. Get a home energy audit: •
12. Use low or no VOC (volatile organic compounds)
paint 1 •
13, Buy and use local, sustainable foods and food •
products
14. Get a water audit and incorporate changes
15. Consider replacing lawn with lows water use •
landscape .
16. Buy alternative fuel or hybrid vehicle
M 17. Use green or sustainable building techniques •
" when building or remodeling •
18. Drink tap water .
19. Get an annual tune up
20. Full loads for both clothes and dish washer •
Get involved!
www.palmsprings-ca.gov •
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
• palm springs
pat} +Px Appendix
• What We've Done Already
o _ e1uM iw ri a5l- ski , a° May 200$
- -
•
"The City recognizes that growth and opportunity cannot be conducted at the expense
• of environmental protection and enhancement,and that growth and environmental
• stewardship are intimately related. The City shall make every effort to cultivate
superior environmental standards that will provide for green and sustainable
• municipal development"
•
. City Palm Springs General Plan
•
• Energv
• Two Co-Generation plants use natural gas to produce and supply power to all
City facilities, including the airport.
•
• LED lights used in all traffic signals throughout the City and all taxi areas and
runways at the Palm Springs airport.
• Energy audit to be completed under proposed Partnership Program in
• collaboration with SCE. The proposal will be considered in late 2008 with
potential funding and implementation in 2009-2011.
• • City buildings are in process of being retrofitted for energy conservation,
including installation of Variable Frequency Devices, lights, window film and
• other energy conservation measures.
•
• • Solar powered trash compactors are being installed in high traffic areas
• downtown to replace over ISO trash containers presently downtown which
must be emptied on a daily basis - reducing the CO2 emissions by over 70%.
•
• • Wastewater treatment plant gas recovery system reduces fuel use.
•
• Waste Reduction
•
• • The city currently recycles 68% of all waste.
• 100% recycling currently underway at all City facilities - collection and
diversion of paper, batteries, ink cartridges, cans, bottles, concrete, metal,
• green waste, fluorescent light bulbs, paints, oils, used tires, and more.
•
•
•
•
•
i
• 100% Diversion of all Construction and Debris Waste - draft ordinance
under development to be considered in 2008.
• E-waste collection -two free events per year with over 50,000 lbs. of e-waste •
collected per event. .
• Shredding - two free events per year with over 3 tons of paper collected at
each event.
• Neighborhood clean-up - 2 free events per year. .
• Curbside collection of sharps and other HHW materials from residents.
• 100% environmentally friendly service ware products that are bio-
degradable or can be composted in use at Convention Center. .
• Used computer electronics sent to Computer Tech program at Cathedral City
High School.
• Unused client product and material gathered at the Convention Center .
following all events for donation to local charities.
Green Building .
• General Plan requires the use of green building techniques in the design and
construction of public buildings and facilities.
• New Animal Control Center to be LEED certified. •
• Green planning site design incentives in use.
• General plan encourages site planning and building orientation that
maximizes solar and wind resources for cooling and heating.
• Passive green systems built into the design of the Convention Center building
resulting in 60% efficiency.
i
• HVAC system at Convention Center utilizes cold water storage off peak to .
reduce energy use during peak hours and automated controls to minimize
load.
• Developers required to identify energy and resource saving measures
incorporated into projects. •
•
•
•
•
• Nature- Open pace Parks, Trails, Habitat,Wildlife
• • Open space acquisitions provided habitat, improved air quality and enhanced
• recreational opportunities
•
• • Wellness Park developed in cooperation with Desert Healthcare District,
. Palm Springs Unified School District and Desert Water Agency features
demonstration gardens and low water use landscaping.Also features walking
• track and exercise stations.
•
• • Re-vegetating public landscapes including pilot projects in city medians.
• Goal to increase public access to trails with new trailheads
•
• • Ordinances in General Plan to support enhancement of open space and
• preservation of wildlife habitat
• Community Clean Up Efforts throughout the city including the Tahquitz
• Creek neighborhood project
•
• Transportation - Public TranspnttaAon. Clean vehicles, Reducing Congestion
The City has thirty-eight alternative fuel vehicles in its 2008 fleet.
•
• Development policies in the General Plan improve energy efficiency and air
. quality by reducing traffic congestion, shortening trip lengths and increasing
availability of walkable routes and alternative modes of transportation.
• • Traffic Signal Management Program will reduce vehicle operating Costs and
emissions via expected reductions in stops and delays.
• Bike lanes incorporated in city streets.
• • Reduced locally classified streets that exceed City thresholds for traffic levels.
•
• • Emergency response times for public safety vehicles above standards.
Air
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• • Lawn mower exchange program - 280 lawn mowers were exchanged for
reduced air emission mowers.
• Street sweeping program removes dust and debris, suitable material
• deposited at sand source locations.
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• Participate on Sun Line Transit board - 100% CNG bus fleet, solar panels on
bus stops, CNG fueling stations at airport and city hall.
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• Waste water treatment plant gas treatment system captures fuel source and •
removes contaminants from digester gas. .
• Solar trash receptacles being installed downtown and throughout the City
will result in estimated 70% reduction in emissions related to city vehicles •
servicing receptacles. •
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Water •
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• Partial rebate available for residents who purchase low-flush toilets. •
• Reclaimed water in use on two municipal golf courses. Indian Canyons Golf
Resort also uses recycled water.
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• Artificial turf being installed in some City's medians.
• Low water use fixtures and landscaping incorporated at Convention Center.
• Preliminary water audit completed by Desert Water Agency for majority of
city facilities and buildings. •
Education and Oittreaclt
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• Participation on CVAG Energy and Environment Committee, Energy and S
Water Conservation Sub Committee, Coachella Valley Conservation
Commission and Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy •
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• November 2008 energy summit scheduled in conjunction with Palm Springs .
Environmental Sustainahility Institute - featuring noted environmentalist •
David Suzuki.
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• Information-available on website, CCTV and distributed to resident
including recycling wheels,recycling brochures, Construction and Demolition .
Debris brochures, information on composting classes, Household Hazardous •
Waste collection, used oil collection, and more.
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• • Adopted Mayor's Climate Change Resolution in March 2008.
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• • Adopted CVAG Resolution to reduce energy use by 10%by 2012.
• • Adopted city goal to reduce energy use by 20% and water use by 50% by
' 2012.
• • Formed the Resource Conservation Commission (RCC), an advisory body of
seven residents tasked with looking at issues and matters regarding green
• building, resource conservation and sustainability, and recycling.
• • Identification of Sustainability as a top Priority for the city during the city's
• 2008 Priority Setting Session. The annual setting of priorities guides work
plans, funding and budget decisions for the city.
• Policy to purchase recycled products saves money and avoids emissions.
• • General Plan priorities include promotion of energy efficiency, efficient use of
• resources, promotion of alternative energy industries and use of alternative
• energy sources.
• • Adopted goal to develop action plan to become a waste free city.
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palm springs' 'tom ' zp First Steps on the Path to a Sustainable Community •
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* The Palm Springs Path to a Sustainable Community
• First Steps
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• 1. Develop an action plan for sustainability this year including:
• a An inventory of City activities
• a SCE Partnership
• a Research of best practices
• a Determination of priorities and measures for the next 1-5 years
a Formation of a Leadership Committee to help guide and refine the plan
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• 2. Complete a comprehensive water audit of all public buildings and facilities
. and develop an action plan that will reduce City water usage by 50% by 2012.
• 3. Complete an energy audit and develop an action plan that will reduce City
• energy use by 20% by 2012.
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. 4. Develop a recycling action plan to become a zero waste community.
• 5. Identify City Hall as a showcase for public sustainability efforts and a model
for energy, water and waste conservation.
6. Develop an interactive website that allows the community to get
information on sustainable projects underway, research what they can do to
• help and offer their ideas.
•
• 7. Host a Sustainable Community Summit in November 2008 including:
Free public lecture by noted environmental expert David Suzuki
• a Exhibits on residential technology, energy saving and recycling
• a Technology fair for developers,home remodelers, architects and
• designers
8. Create the Palm Springs Partners in Sustainability Award to honor leading
• business, organizations and individuals who contribute to making life more
• sustainable. The inaugural award will be presented at the first Summit in
• November 2008.
9. Implement a model re-landscaping project showcasing the Tahquitz Median
• from the airport to downtown by the end of 2009.
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` 10. Develop a plan to transition the City's non-emergency vehicles and
• equipment to a 50% clean air, energy efficient fleet.
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The :palm Springs Path to a Sustainable Community
First Steps
Continued - Page 2 !
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11. Develop a Green Economic Development Strategy with initiatives to
support and promote clean technology businesses, create new green jobs and
develop incentives for existing and new businesses that encourage •
sustainability. •
12. Develop a plan to promote ecotourism in partnership with the Tribe,
recreational user groups and the environmental community.
13. Review City procurement and contracting policies to promote •
sustainability concerns.
14. Develop a policy to provide priority parking for alternative energy vehicles •
throughout Pahn Springs. 1 !
15. Incorporate sustainability efforts into the five year capital funding plan.
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16. Require City funded events to have a sustainability plan and be •
substantially waste-free in order to continue receiving public funding. •
17. Work with College of the Desert to incorporate sustainability, green •
building and environmental sustainability training and classes into Palm !
Springs campus. •
18. Evaluate the feasibility of implementing a public/private solar roof •
initiative. •
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19. Host a national surmnit on sustainability in Palm Springs in 2012. •
20. Acquire consultant services for the development of a sustainability master
plan, including a staff implementation process.
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E� Appendix
• Palm springs F
,/ ' Final Quick Start Actions
• paw .. W„ December 8, 2008
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1. Adopt a sustainable purchasing policy
• 2. Pass a resolution of support and join the legislative effort in support of feed in tariffs
• for solar
• 3. Focus pilot energy efficiency loan program on older air conditioners, pool pump
replacement and solar water heaters
4. In cooperation with local utilities, establish an energy conservation outreach program
in conjunction with energy efficiency loan program
• S. Adopt unbleached paper policy for city operations
6. Make the city library the first zero waste facility in the city
• 7. Identify/support a local land owner in establishing an urban farm on vacant private
• land
• 8. Develop/adopt sustainable criteria for city funded events
9. Implement 1/week waste pick up
• 10.Start a neighborhood fruit collection program in cooperation with local food banks and
• Palm Springs Neighborhood Involvement Committee groups
• 11.Create an Office of Sustainability
12. Modify the role and duties of the Resource Conservation Commission to incorporate
• Sustainability and assign the Sustainability Office as staff
• 13. Pursue a pilot project to establish an electric shuttle from the airport to downtown
• 14.Adopt an engine idling policy for public vehicles
15.Issue an RPP for municipal solar roof program to cover all public facilities and parking
• with solar under Power Purchase Agreement or other arrangement
• 16.Work with Desert Water Agency to offer water audits to 100 top water users and
• identify action plans to reduce use and increase efficiency
` 17.Work with Southern California Edison to offer energy audits to 100 top energy users
and identify action plans to reduce use and increase efficiency
• 18.Adopt a policy to eliminate plastic bottles from city sponsored events
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{ Appendix •
�palm athsppngs Example Leadership Council Resolution
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• DESERT COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT AGENDA ITEM
• BOARD OF TRUSTEES
• Date of Meeting August 21, 2008 Area President
•
Communication No. 1
• TOPIC: Approval of Resolution#170 to Join Palm Springs on the Path to a
Sustainable Community
• I
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. PROPOSAL
• To approve Resolution#170 in joining The City of Palm Springs on the Path to a
• Sustainable Community.
•
• BACKGROUND
The City of Palm Springs has identified sustainability and the creation of a
comprehensive plan for sustainability as a priority for the coming year.
• BUDGET IMPLICATIONS
None.
• RECOMMENDATIONS
It is recommended that the Board of Trustees approve the Resolution as presented.
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• Prepared and Approved by:
. Jerry . Patton
. ident
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DESERT COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT •
RESOLUTION #170: JOIN PALM SPRINGS ON A PATH TO A
SUSTAINABILITY COMMUNITY
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WHEREAS, Palm Springs is embarking upon a community-wide path •
to foster and encourage conservation and resource sustainability through •
wise stewardship of resources, promotion of energy efficient technology
and programs in current and planned municipal and community activities, .
and the delivery of education and information regarding individual options
for reducing energy use and conservation of resources; and •
•
WHEREAS, there is evidence that reducing our energy use will result •
in cleaner air which is a critical factor in the pursuit and maintenance of a
healthy lifestyle and the preservation of our unmatched quality of life and a •
vibrant economy; and
WHEREAS, Palm Springs is pursuing programs and policies that a
provide economic health, and quality of life benefits, such as reduced
energy bills, air quality improvements, open space conservation and •
enhanced trails access, improved transportation choices, and clean tech •
economic development and job creations; and .
WHEREAS, the City of Palm Springs has adopted the US Conference of
Mayors' Climate Protection Agreement that requests strong policy resolutions •
calling for cities, communities and the federal government to take actions •
supporting conservation and other efforts to reduce global warming pollution and
address impacts to climate change; and •
WHEREAS, Palm Springs has endorsed a municipal goal to reduce .
energy consumption by 20% and water use by 50% by the year 2012; and •
WHEREAS, Palm Springs has committed to transition the city's non-
emergency vehicles and equipment to a 50% clean air/energy efficient fleet by •
2012; and
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WHEREAS, Palm Springs has adopted a goal to pursue programs and
technology that wlll lead to becoming a zero waste community; and
WHEREAS, Palm Springs is committed to development of an overall
master plan for sustainability in 2008; and •
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WHEREAS, the City of Palm Springs has invited the community to join the •
path and ch0enged others to commit to take the first steps. •
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• NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that College of the Desert agrees to join
Palm Springs on the path to a sustainable community, including a commitment to
• undertake at least the following first steps on the path by the end of 2008;
• 1. Conduct an energy audit and implement changes for energy efficiency.
• 2. Conduct a water use audit and implement changes for increased water use
• efficiency.
• 3. Conduct a waste audit and implement changes to reduce disposal and increase
re-use and recycling.
• 4. Commit to active role as a sponsor, exhibitor or participant in the Community
Summit in November.
• 5_ Allow our name and organization to be identified as a member of the Leadership
Council.
• 6. Agree to monitor and share the results of your energy, water, waste and other
• efficiency efforts.
• 7. Agree to be early adopters of new technology and programs that support
sustainability.
• 8. Agree to participate in forums, advisory panel meetings, and information and
• education programs.
• 9. Commit to sponsor at least one community-wide collaborative project.
10.Make a five-year commitment to the path and make annual reports on progress.
•
FURTHER, BE IT RESOLVED that we agree to continue to consider additional
. steps on the path which will incorporate sustainability strategies into our planning
• and business policies and practices of the future.
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• cretary oar Trustees or
• Au ed Age t of the Board
• August 21, 2008
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palm spring Appendix
s
bath i 1��� Leadership Council Project Inventory
rII
October 2, 2008
=�Lrn�o "lu4�ts11�Y1o1��'[4fo]nnlnMuliilje+
Organization Projects Underway Projects Planned Contact Person Phone Email
College or the . Solar panels on new • Thermal energy Bud Miller 416-9119 home Sudmillero8Lgmail.com
Desert buildings storage central 773-2500 COD
Low flowlhigh plant
efficiency cooling • Cool roof white
system roof membrane
with R-30
-insulation - - - -
• 85% energy
efficient boilers for
heating hot water
Palm Springs . Desert AIDS AC • Solar Field -Gene John Raymond Diana.shay@palmsprings-ca.aov
Community . Tahquitz Court Apts Autry & I-10 Cathy Van Horn
Economic energy . Clean Tech Zone Diana Shay
Development Dept improvements • New Trash
Preservation of open Enclosure Recycled
space Araby Cove Compactor
Palm Springs . Fleet conversion to • Full recycling/ Rick Wade 327-1351 rickQpalmspringsdisposal.com
Disposal Service 100% AFV sorting facility- X 307
Replacement of 110- corridor
office AC unit and • Expansion of
heating organic
Single stream wastelfcod waste
recycling expansion recycling
to commercial and • Expansion of
HOAs construction debris
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Organization Projects Underway Projects Planned Contact Person Phone Email
recycling
Cal State Gold LEED status • Fully implement Fred Jandt 341-7883 ext fiandL@csysb.edu
University San Health Science Institute including 78101
Bernardino Palm Building funding faculty
Desert Campus Solar through Sun research
Edison at no cost to • From today's
University discussion —
• Info kiosk on LEED explore ways for
construction in student
lobby for public participation
funded by Sempra
• Initiating PS Institute
for Environmental
Sustainability
• First report on air
quality to be
released soon
Desert Healthcare • Landscape changes . Partnership with Sid Rubenstein 323-6113 loepper@dhcd.oro
District to reduce water use DRMC on solar Lenny Pepper sprior@dhcd.ora
• Increased recycling parking lots
• Exploring healthy • Sustainability goals
cities components in strategic plan
• Office policy • Grants available to
changes— no local non-profits to
bottled water, help with green
central printers only, projects
etc . $2 million
childhood obesity
Initiative
Desert Water . First Solar • 2nd solar Dave Luker 323-4971 dluker@dwa.ora
Agency installation 300kw installation 500kw
• Native landscape to 1 MW
conversion • Expanded recycled
• Irrigation controller water use
program
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Organization Projects Underway Projects Planned Contact Person Phone Email
• Conservation
awareness program
PSEDC workshops • Solar energy plan Ed Torres 327-5284 ed@edwardtorres.com
• Education for commercial Tamara Stevens 880-3205 tamarastevens@psedc.com
buildings
Desert Regional . Medical air • Solar parking lot Karolee SOwle, 323-6774 Dale.barnhart@tenethealth.com
Medical Center compressor to save for employees CEO 323-6302
900 gal/day • Additional central Dale Barnhart,
Central plant plant upgrades Facilities Director
upgrades —new • Desert landscape
electric chille3r saves
50% electricity
• Lighting retrofit
• Increased recycling
-Mark Mark Nichols LEED certified Nichols 864-1747 nfo@marknicholsinteriors.com
Modern Interiors design studio
• Low Flow water
fixtures
• Only high efficiency
lighting
• 90% materials wl
recycled content
Low/no VOC
emitting materials
• Natural daylighting
Daylighting controls
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�paim springs F Appendix
path ` II Relationship of Elements in the Master Plan
ii[oi �o ul,�S�llilYko7Cc'[c,;cl.^.�til�r�ul'�}�3�Y
City Sustainable
Management Economic Healthy Climate Urban Healthy
Action and Vitality Ecosystems Change Development Energy City Waste Water
Operations and Mobility
City
Management
and
Operations
- Department N/A X X X X X X
internal
operations
assessment
Economic
Vitality
Healthy
Ecosystems
Climate
Change
Sustainable
Urban
Development
and Mobility
Energy
COGAN
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City Sustainable
Management Economic Healthy Climate Urban Healthy
Action and Vitality Ecosystems Change Development Energy City Waste Water
Operations and Mobility
Heafthy City
Waste
Water
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Department Pilot
Sustainability Work Session Materials
City of Palm Springs
December 2, 2008
d,� ,
pa�m springs
path
Produced by;
Dorothy Atwood
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OVERVIEW OF PROCESS
This material has been prepared for the departments of the City of Palm Springs to facilitate the creation of a sustainable development
plan. The specific goal of 'this effort is to create a shared "mental map" and framework far reviewing ongoing and future activities from a
sustainability perspective.
• CREATE A RESOURCE FLow MAP
• ENVISION SUSTAINABLE OPERATIONS
• SELECT IMPACT AREAS
■ IDENTIFY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT IDEAS
• DETERMINE BASELINE DATA NEEDS
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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
STEP-BY-STEP METHOD TO CREATING A RESOURCE FLOW MAP
To create a resource flow map for your department or operational area, follow the five steps outlined here and detailed on the following
pages.
1 . Define your scope or limits to the map.
2. Identify your products andlor services.
3. Identify the top six to ten activities within your scope.
4. Identify Inputs associated with those activities.
5. Identify outputs.
Common Resource Inputs include:
Materials (delivered)
• Metals
• Plastics
• Paper
• Wood
• Chemicals
• Oil, coal, gasoline, LPG, diesel
• Packaging
Utilities ("piped")
• Water
• Electricity
• Natural gas
Others
• Building
• Office furniture, supplies
• Employees (travel, consumption, etc.).
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Organization/Function: Fire Dept. -B shift Example Resource Flaw Map Date: 1112107
Activities
Resources TrainingProducts
Coffee Inspections Save lives and protect property
Respond to calls (public service medical fne)
People Facilities maintenance C ecological,
l benefits (economic,
Fuel (diesel, gas) Apparatus maintenance ecological, livability}
Electricity, natural gas Public education
Batteries Lodging/sustenance
Apparatus/equipment Fire suppression Byproducts
Water
Buildings & facilities *
Medical supplies Wastes Batteries
Apparatus
PPE, mniFonms - -
Paper Water Building materials
PPE, uniforms
Computers Foam (class B (
} m
st)
Air Exhaust(CO2, GHG) Paper (mast}
Yard see
Time Batteries*
Lightbulbs Building materials Linenss (service)
Radios,pagers, cell phones Medical waste Ink cartridges
Food PPE, uniforms
Linens Paper
Foam Food**
Ink cartridges
Money
**need to get a station pig What happens to batteries?
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ENVISION SusrAINA$LE OPERATIONS
Analyze the reap you have created using the following questions. Ignore economic and .technological constraints at this point. The
visioning process should be free of constraints. It is about opening up the creative process of possibilities without regard to current
constraints.
For example, for resource flows:
• Which of our inputs are unsustainable?
• What are some of the alternatives to the unsustainable inputs?
• Are all our sources of energy renewable?
• Are materials from sustainable sources?
• What might this operation look like if it used all sustainable inputs?
• Can we be more efficient with the resources that we use?
• What are some of renewable resources that we might be able to incorporate?
• What types of wastes do we have?
• Can some of the wastes become by-products or fuel for another operation or for another organization?
■ Can we eliminate these wastes?
• What would the operations look like if we eliminated a particular input or waste?
• Can our core operations be redesigned to make it impact-free and closed-loop?
SELECT IMPACT AREAS
Review the resource inputs and the waste categories omyour map. Circle all those areas that have the most impact and are least
sustainable and provide the best opportunity for improvement. Review each of the circled impact areas against the City of Palm Springs
Sustainability Master Plan Draft Vision and Guiding Principles shown below.
Draft Vision
Palm Springs 2030 —The Restorative City
Palm Springs 2030 is a thriving city that restores and sustains life. The city's vitality is based on the thoughtful actions of its citizens with
resources derived from its deep_roots in the desert landscape. It uses resources that are sustainable and renewable including solar, wind,
water and recycled materials from natural endowments. Its physical form is that of a set of complete, nested communities based on a
20-minute walk to meet basic human needs. Its homes and businesses are built to high green standards. The city is carbon neutral and
all water is recycled and reused. The city's economy is cyclical where resource flows are maximized and reused in the economic system.
Community life is focused on continuous1earning and the creation and restoration of this great city and its communities.
5
Draft Guiding Principles
• Does this action conserve resources?
• Does this action help the City eliminate waste and recycle and reuse resources?
• Does this action reduce/eliminate toxins?
• Does this action help the City develop renewable resources?
• Does this action help the City grow green businesses (green technology, green collar jobs, green building, ecotourism, clean processes
and products)?
• Does this action restore ecosystems and habitats?
• Does the result of this action treat all people fairly?
• Does this action support continuing learning for all phases of life?
Based on the review, select the three to five impact areas with the best opportunity for improvement.
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IDENTIFY IMPROVEMENT PROJEcr IDEAS
1 . Brainstorm improvement project ideas at department or workgroup level
2. Fill in the Project Brainstorm Template
EXAMPLE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT LIST
Work Group Police Dept. Core Team Date 4130/08
Impact Areas/Projects
Area 1 Fuel
Project la [ncrease fleet miles per gallon
Project 1b Alternative patrol tactics (e.g. more staff for bike patrols)
Project 1c Using cleaner fuels, biofuels, hydrogen.
Area 2
Project 2a
Project 2b
Project 2c
DETERMINE BASELINE DATA NEEDS
For each impact area and project idea, identify the data required and metrics to be used. An example is for the impact area of vehicle
fuel use. Possible data needs for fuel use include:
• Current total fuel used by types
■ Inventory of types of vehicles
• Average fleet miles per gallon
• Green house gas emissions from vehicle fuel
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TEMPLATES
Resource Flow Map Template
IMPACT MAP TEMPLATE
RESOUKES PRODUCTS
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BY P h,0 0 U C Vo
WASTE
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Project Brainstorm Template
Work Group Date
Impact Areas/Projects
Area 1
Project 1 a -
Project 1 b
Project-1c - - - - - - - - -
Area 2
Project 2a
Project 2b
Project 2c
Area 3
Project 3a
Project 3b
Project 3c
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Appendix
Resources on Sustainability
r This section provides resources cited in the Master Plan with links for further
investigation and refinement of policies, strategies and actions that fit the
. Palm Springs context.
• B1ueGreen Meetings
• California Innovation Index
► California Legislation
• The Carbon Trust(carbon labeling)
CleanEdge
. • International District Energy Association
• Global Leadership Responsibilities Initiative (GLRI)
• Green Innovation Index
ICLIE
• International EcoTourism Society
• The Natural Step Framework
. National Trust for Historic Preservation
Smart Growth Network
i • Sustainable Industries Journal
Sustainable Sites Initiative
• SustainLane Urban Rating System
• United Nations Green Cities Declaration
• ► US Green Building Council and Cascadia Green Building Council
. • Zero Waste Alliance, Blue Green Institute, and Institute for Market
• Transformation to Sustainability
• B1ueGreen Meetings
BlueGreen Meetings, an initiative of the Oceans Blue Foundation, is a charity focused
on developing environmental 'best practices' for all sectors of the tourism industry.
They address meetings techniques that lessen environmental impacts including tips,
• tools and resources to make environmentally responsible choices.
coc.
1
• CUGAI
•
For more information: http://www.hluegreenmeetings.org .
California Innovation Index
The 2009 California Green Innovation Index is a brand new report produced by Next
10. The Index provides a deep analysis of key economic and environmental
indicators that will help us better understand the role green innovation plays in
reducing greenhouse gas emissions while strengthening the economy.
Research included in this 2009 Green Innovation Index provides further evidence of
the powerful economic stimulus clean energy policy can provide. California's energy .
productivity, that is, the amount of Gross Domestic Product produced per unit of •
energy, is 680/6 more productive than the rest of the nation. New data presented
shows that while total jobs increased by just 1% statewide, green jobs have
increased by 10% since 2005. Clean technology investment in California nearly
doubled in 2008, reaching $3.3 billion. California is a national leader in solar, wind •
and battery patents.
For more information: www.nextl0.org/environment/greenlnnnvation09.html +♦
California Legislation and Regulations
The State of California, has adopted nationally significant legislation in a variety of •
fields addressed by this Master Plan. These major pieces of legislation include but •
are not limited to:
• AB 32, the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006, requires i
California to develop a comprehensive approach to reducing greenhouse
gases. The Air Resources Board's Scoping Plan outlines the main strategies
California will use to reduce the greenhouse gases (GHG) that cause climate
change. The Scoping Plan includes a range of GHG reduction actions which i
include direct regulations, alternative compliance mechanisms, monetary
and non-monetary incentives, voluntary actions, and market-based
mechanisms such as a cap-and-trade system.
• SB 97 requires the Office 'of Planning and Research by July 1, 2:009, to
prepare and transmit to the, Resources Agency amendments to the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) guidelines to assist public agencies in the
mitigation of GHG emissions or the effects of GHG including the effects
associated with transportation and energy consumption.1 .
• SB 375 is the nation's first policy to integrate four planning processes: land-
use planning, transportation planning, housing development and reduction
of greenhouse gas emission's focused on the use of incentives. By addressing •
1 hrlr://gov.ca goy/press-release/10697 and hPCn://infmsen ca gov/nuh/07.08/hill/seil/sh 0351• •
040O.%h 375 r.FA 20090818 153416 asm rnmm.hrml .
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GHG emissions in the aggregate, from these sources at the regional planning
level, a new system is designed to avoid conducting duplicative, project-
specific CEQA greenhouse gas analysis and mitigation strategies. In addition,
the legislation provides the opportunity for the Coachella Valley to develop a
regional plan separate from the Southern California Association of
Governments (SCAG). By June 1, 2009 the regional planning agency
Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG) is required to decide
whether to opt into an eight year planning cycle for the act.
. • AB 1881, The Water Conservation in Landscaping Act of 2006 requires local
. agencies, no later January 1, 2010, to adopt the updated Model Water
Efficient Landscape Ordinance or equivalent or it will be automatically
adopted by statute.
• • AB 939, the Integrated Waste Management Act to reduce the waste stream
and demand on landfills. The Act required municipalities to cut waste in half
by the year 2000.Achieving this goal entailed reducing consumption, reusing
materials, recycling, composting and buying products made from recycled
• material. The Recycling Market Development Zone (RMDZ) program of the
California Integrated Waste Management Board is a related initiative
whereby incentives and assisting with forming partnerships between
recycling collectors and manufacturers. It issues loans for businesses that
convert recycled discards into materials used to make new products,
. assisting with site selection and permitting, and promoting recycled
. products. The program is funded by tipping fees.
The Carbon Trust
The Carbon Trust was set up in 2001 by the United Kingdom government as an
independent company. Its mission is to accelerate the move to a low carbon
economy.
The Trust works with organizations to reduce carbon emissions today and develop
commercially viable low carbon technologies that will reduce carbon emissions in
the future. Their most significant product is a tool to estimate the carbon impacts
embedded in goods and services.
For more information: vvww.carbontrust.com/EN/Home-a2LX
C1eanEdge
C ean_Edge is a leading research and publishing firm helping companies, investors,
and governments understand and profit from clean technologies. Products and
services include:
• Market Research - including annual Clean Energy Trends report.
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• NASDAQ@. Clean Edge@. Stock Indexes - benchmark indexes tracking U.S. •
clean-energy and global wind companies.
• The Clean-Tech Investor Summit-the clean-tech conference and networking
opportunity.
• Clean Edge ohs- connecting clean-tech job seekers, employers, and .
recruiters.
For more information: www.cleanedge�cJ
Global Responsibilities Leadership Initiative (GRLI)
The GRLI is a unique global community of action and learning, consisting of
organizations (the Partners) that work individually, in pairs, in clusters and
collectively. The GRLI's focused mission is to promote, support and execute the .
development of a next generation of globally responsible leaders. It is set up as a •
foundation of public interest, based in Belgium. The initiative provides access to
resources to members from a wide range of sources on advanced thinking on
corporate responsibility philosophy and practice related of caring for the •
environment and recognizing interdependence and systems thinking. .
For more information: www.grli.org/
ICLEI: Local Governments for Sustainability
r
ICLEI is an international association of local governments as well as national and
regional local government organizations that have made a commitment to
sustainable development. •
Over 1071 cities, towns, counties, and their associations worldwide comprise
ICLEI's growing membership. ICLEI works with these and hundreds of other local
governments through international performance-based, results-oriented campaigns •
and programs. ICLEI provides ,technical consulting, training, and information .
services to build capacity, share knowledge, and support local government in the
implementation of sustainable development at the local level. Their basic premise is
that locally designed initiatives can provide an effective and cost-efficient way to
achieve local,national, and global sustainability objectives.
For more information: h=t //www.iclei.orL,/index.php?id=global-about-iclei
The International Ecotourism Society (TIES)
TIES promotes responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment
and improves the well-being of local people by:
• Creating an international network of individuals, institutions and the tourism
industry;
• Educating tourists and tourism professionals; and
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! Influencing the tourism industry, public institutions and donors to integrate
! the principles of ecotourism into their operations and policies.
As the world's oldest and largest international ecotourism association, TIES seeks to
be the global source of knowledge and advocacy uniting communities, conservation
! and sustainable travel.
! For more information:
! www.ecotourism.org/wehmodules/webarticlesnet/templates/eco template aspx?a
• 12&z=25
International District Energy Association (IDEA)
! The International District Energy Association (IDEA) is a nonprofit trade association
founded in 1909 and governed by a 20-member hoard of directors.
! IDEA's Mission Statement
!
. IDEA fosters the success of its members as leaders in providing reliable, economical,
! efficient and environmentally sound district energy services. Its vision is to promote
energy efficiency and environmental quality through the advancement of district
! heating, district cooling and cogeneration (also known as combined heat and P.Qwer
! or CHP).
! IDEA represents nearly 700 members who are district heating and cooling
! executives, managers, engineers, consultants and equipment suppliers from 12
! countries. Association members operate district energy systems owned by utilities,
! municipalities, hospitals, military bases and airports in 38 of the 50 United States -
• and more are in the works in the U.S. and around the world.
For more information: vTww.districtenerEy.org/
! The Natural Step Framework
! The Natural Step is a nonprofit organization founded in Sweden in 1989 by Swedish
! scientist, Karl-Henrik Robert. The organization defined a "8ackcasting" approach to
effectively advance society towards sustainability. The Natural Step has developed,
. through a consensus process, a systematic principle-based definition of
sustainability.
Instead of relying on trend-based "forecasting", backcasting is a visioning tool used
to define where our communities want to be in the future, how they want to
! function. The practice then is to build back from that point and define how to reach
! that desired state in terms of strategies, actions and measures. The goal is to move
. systematically toward sustainability.
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The framework is rooted in systems thinking. It is based on four system conditions !
(scientific principles) that lead to a sustainable society. These conditions, that must
be met in order to have a sustainable society, are as follows: !
In a sustainable society,nature is not subject to systematically increasing:
I. Concentrations of substances extracted from the Earth's crust;
2. Concentrations of substances produced by society;
3. Degradation by physical means and, in that society; and
4. People are not subject to conditions that systematically undermine their capacity .
to meet their needs.
For more information:www.thenatu)-alstep.org/usa .
Nat-Tonal Trust for Historic Preservation !
The construction, operation and 'demolition of buildings accounts for 48% the !
United States' GHGs. But reusing and retrofitting our existing buildings can reduce !
these emissions dramatically. In fact, our existing buildings are one of our greatest
renewable resources.
Through our Sustainability Initiative, the National Trust for Historic Preservation is !
focusing the nation's attention on the importance of reusing existing buildings and !
reinvesting in older and historic 'communities as critical elements in combating !
climate change. Americans already embrace as common sense the need to recycle .
aluminum cans, glass and newspapers. We advocate applying that same common
sense to our built environment. 1 !
For more information: http://www.preservationnation.org/issues/sustainable !
Smart Growth Network !
In 1996, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency joined with several nonprofit
and government organizations to' form the Smart Growth Network (SG1V). The
Network was formed in response to increasing community concerns about the need
for new ways to grow that boost the economy, protect the environment, and !
enhance community vitality. The Network's partners include environmental groups, .
historic preservation organizations, professional organizations, developers, real
estate interests, local and state government entities. !
The SGN works to encourage development that serves the economy, community and
the environment. It is a forum for: !
- Raising public awareness of how growth can Improve community quality of 0
life;
- Promoting smart growth best practices;
Developing and sharing information,innovative policies, tools and ideas; and
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. Cultivating strategies to address barriers to and advance opportunities for
. smart growth.
Extensive material regarding smart growth principles in the following areas can be
. found on the site:
• - Housing opportunity and choice
. - Walkable neighborhoods
. Community and stakeholder collaboration
Distinctive communities
• Development decision-making
• Mixed-land uses
• Open space, farmland, natural beauty and critical environmental areas
• preserved
Transportation choice
• - Develop inward/existing communities
• - Compact building design
For more information: www.smaEMtowth.org
• Sustainable Industries Journal (SIJ)
SIJ is a monthly magazine that tracks sustainable development, products and
services throughout the US and globally focused on the Pacific Coast.
is
• For more information: www.sustainableindustr>ies.corn
• Sustainable Sites Initiative
•
•, The Sustainable Sites Initiative was created to promote sustainable land
• development and management practices that can apply to sites with and without
buildings including,but not limited to the following:
•
• . Healthy landscapes provide benefits to human functioning,health, and well-
0 being.
• Open spaces such as local, state and national parks, conservation easements
• and buffer zones and transportation rights-of-way.
• • Sites with buildings including industrial, retail and office parks, military
complexes, airports,botanical gardens, streetscapes and plazas,residential
•
and commercial developments and public and private campuses.
• A Steering Committee representing 11 stakeholder groups was selected to guide the
• Initiative. More than 30 experts are now on Technical Subcommittees developing
• sustainable benchmarks for soils, hydrology, vegetation, human health and well-
0 being and materials selection. These subcommittees are developing the technical
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foundation for the Guidelines and Performance Benchmarks. The first interim
report- the "Preliminary Report" -was released in November 2007.
For more information: www.su5tainpblpsites.org/about/
SustainLane
SustainLane.com is the web's largest people-powered guide to sustainable living.
The hub of SustainLane Media's offerings, SustainLane.com is filled with personal
accounts of how-tos, news, and local business and product reviews for sustainable •
living.
•
The SustainLane US City Rankings is a proprietary, peer reviewed, special feature of •
SustainLane Media. This leading rational survey ranks the largest 50 US cities in
terms of their sustainability practices. SustainLane's rankings are the most •
comprehensive and credible benchmarking of the state of sustainability in America, •
and are covered by the Wall Street'Journal, CNBC, CNN, NPR and many other media •
outlets.
•
SustainLane's 2008 US City Rankings was featured at the world's first green cities •
and communities conference ins Geneva, Switzerland on Oct 1, 2008. The •
SustainLane methodology is now being adopted internationally, as Japan works to
rank their own cities sustainable practices, and that special report will be released •
in July of 2009 at Japan's Green Festival to be held in Tokyo. •
For more information: www.5us ainl n .co •
United Nations Green Cities Declaration •
•
On June 5, 2005 the United Nations adopted the Urban Environmental Accords, •
Green Cities Declaration addressing the following urban issues: •
• Energy Renewable Energy I Energy Efficiency I Climate Change •
• Waste Reduction Zero Waste I Manufacturer Responsibility I Consumer •
Responsibility
• Urban Design Green Building I Urban Planning I Slums
• Urban Nature Parks I Habitat Restoration I Wildlife •
• Transportation Public Transportation I Clean Vehicles I Reducing Congestion •
• Environmental Health Toxics Reduction I Healthy Food Systems I Clean Air
• Water Access and Efficiency j Source Water Conservation I Waste Water •
Reduction •
So far over 100 cities have adopted the accords and will present their plans at a UN •
conference in San Francisco. •
For more information: •
httl2://www_pQ13terFa asQstenible.org/al21/Documetos/urban accords.pdf
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US Green Building Council (USGBC)
The USGBC supports rating systems for several types of development including;
LEED Rating Systems
New Construction
LEED for New Construction and Major Renovations is designed to guide and
distinguish high-performance commercial and institutional projects.
• Existing Buildings: Operations &Maintenance
LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance provides a
benchmark. for building owners and operators to measure operations,
improvements and maintenance.
Commercial.Interiors
• LEED for Commercial Interiors is a benchmark for the tenant improvement
• market that gives the power to make sustainable choices to tenants and
designers.
w Cnre&Shell
LEED for Core & Shell aids designers, builders, developers and new building
• owners in implementing sustainable design for new core and shell
. construction.
Schools
LEED for Schools recognizes the unique nature of the design and
construction of K-12 schools and addresses the specific needs of school
. spaces.
Retail
LEED for Retail recognizes the unique nature of retail design and
construction projects and addresses the specific needs of retail spaces.
. Healthcare
• LEED for Healthcare promotes sustainable planning, design and construction
for high-performance healthcare facilities.
H mes
. LEED for Homes promotes the design and construction of high-performance
• green homes.
Neighborhood Development
LEED for Neighborhood Development integrates the principles of smart
growth, urbanism and green building into the first national program for
. neighborhood design.
For more information: mm w.�c.org/displavna�e.asnx?CMsYag_eID=222,
• A related but separate effort, the Living Building Challenge, advanced by the
i Cascadia Green Building Council, is more advanced than LEED. It supports
innovative green buildings that will:
• Generate all of its own energy with renewable resources;
• Capture and treats all of its water; and
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• Operate efficiently and for maximum beauty. S
The Living Building Challenge is comprised of six performance areas:
• Site .
• Energy
• Materials
• Water
• Indoor Quality
• Beauty+ Inspiration r
For more information: http: www.cascadiagbc.nrg/lbc
World Business Council for Sustainable Development
The World Business Council for Sustainable Development [WBCSD) is a CEO-led, A
global association of some 200 companies dealing exclusively with business and
sustainable development. The Council provides a platform for companies to explore
sustainable development, share knowledge, experiences and best practices, and to
advocate business positions on these issues in a variety of forums, working with •
governments, non-governmental and intergovernmental organizations. •
Members are drawn from more than 35 countries and 20 major industrial sectors.
The Council also benefits from a global network of about 58 national and regional
business councils and regional partners. .
For more information:
htCn7//www.wbcsd. )rgftemplates/TemplateWBC. D5/lavout.asp?type=p&M nnuld=
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Zero Waste Alliance+
•
• Defines the benefits and methods for eliminating waste. •
For more information: www.zerowaste.org
• Zero Waste is closely related to the Cradle to Cradle, by William McDonough i
and Michael Braungart, with a vision of design and redesign of society's .
products to completely eliminate the concept of waste and transform waste •
into input into other processes or healthy organic fertilizers.
For more information: Green Blue Institute: http://www.greenblue.arg/ •
• The Institute for Market Transformation to Sustainability also develops
product development standards to reduce waste and environmental impacts.
For more information: www.sustainableproducts.com/mts/iudex.htm •
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PARTIAL LISTING OF CALIFORNIA CITIES,GREEN BUILDING ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS •
Alameda, CA: •
On May 6, 2008, the Alameda City Council adopted the Civic Green Building Ordinance, updating Chapter 1$of the Alameda
Municipal Cade, requiring ail city-owned and city-funded projects exceeding$3 million in Construction costs to earn LEED •
Certified or a GreenPoint Rated score of 50. .
Alameda County, CA: •
All county projects inilialed after July 1, 2003 must be LEED"Silver"certified.This ordinance added chapter 4.38 to Title 4 of
the Administrative Code of the County of Alameda. •
Administrative Code website: http://municipalcodes lexisnexis.com/codes/alamedadmin/
Contact: •
Michael Cadrecha, Architect, County of Alameda GSA-TSD; (510)208-9589; michael.cadrecha@acgov org.
Albany, CA: •
On April 26, 2006,Albany city council adopted an ordinance requiring all city-sponsored construction projects of at least 5,000
square feet of occupied nonresidential space will achieve LEED Certified. Private commercial projects of 10,000 square feet
are also required to achieve LEED Certified.
Projects in Albany pursuing LEED are also required to have a LEED AP as a principal member of the design team.
Anaheim, CA: .
On August 8,2006, the Anaheim City Council adopted Resolution 2006-187, requiring all new municipal buildings over 10,000 •
sq ft to be LEED Certified and encouraging private developers and builders to earn LEED certification for all their future
projects..
Anaheim, CA: •
On August 8,2006, the Anaheim City Council adopted Resolution 2006-187, requiring all new municipal buildings over 10,000 •
sq tt to be LEED Certified and encouraging private developers and builders to earn LEED certification for all their future .
projects.
Brisbane, CA: •
On December 17, 2007.the Bnsbane City Council adopted Ordinance 524, requiring all new municipal buildings over 5,000 sq .
ft to earn LEED Silver certification and all new commercial construction and renovation over 10,000 sq ft to earn LEED Silver
certification. Commercial projects smaller than 10,000 sq ft are encouraged to follow LEED guidelines. •
Burbank, CA: •
In March of 2004, the City of Burbank issued its Green Budding and Sustainable Architecture Reference Manual including •
Burbank-specific guidelines on a credit-by-credit basis with the LEED Rating System for New Construction. Expedited permit .
approval and reduced permit fees (5%-15%)are available to varying degrees based on the level of sustainability achieved. •
For Level I, projects must submit proof of construction waste diversion and stormwater prevention programs;for Level ll, •
projects must submit proof'of sustainable budding methods and materials programs in addition to Level I requirements,for •
Level III, projects must submit proof of LEED'certification,
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Calabasas, CA:
• On January 7, 2004,the Calabasas City Council adopted Ordinance#2003-185 requiring all non-residential, city and privately-
owned buildings between 500 ft2 and 5,000 ft2 to meet the LEED Certified level. Buildings over 5,000 f12 must meet the LEED
• Silver level.
. Campbell, CA:
. On December 4, 2007,the Campbell City Council adopted Resolution 10850, requiring all new and renovated municipal
• buildings over 5,000 sq ft to achieve LEED Silver certification.
. Costa Mesa, CA:
On September 4, 2007, the Costa Mesa City Council approved a resolution that established a green building incentive
program for private development,effective September 5, 2007 through June 30,2008. The program encourages green
• building practices through various incentives, including priority permitting and fee waivers for all green installations and fee
• reductions to cover the cost of LEED certification.
• On the same day,the City established leadership by becoming the first municipality in the State of California to require all new
. municipal construction to achieve LEED Gold,with no size or cost minimums.
• Contact:
. Khanh Nguyen, Building Official; City of Costa Mesa; (714)754-5277; knguyen@ci costa-mesa.ca.us
• Cupertino, CA:
On November 20, 2007. the Cupertino City Council adopted a policy requiring all new municipal buildings to achieve LEED
• Silver certification,
http://64.165.34 13/weblink7/DocView.aspx9id=23721 (scroll down to page 9)
Dublin, CA:
. In March 2004, the City Council approved Ordinance 9-04 that all municipal projects with an estimated construction cost of$3
million or greater must register with the USGBC and achieve LEED Silver certification. Smaller projects are required to
incorporate as many green building principles as deemed appropriate by the Green Building Compliance Official.
• Irvine, CA:
. On December 13,2005, Irvine Mayor Krom signed into law Resolution 405-153, establishing a Green Building Program in
which all new municipal buildings and major renovations of municipal structures of 5,000 square feet or larger shall be
designed, constructed and certified at a minimum of LEED Certified
• Resolution#05-153 can be viewed through Irvine's city records search.
. Livermore, CA:
• On October 17,2006,the Livermore City Council adopted the Commercial and Residential Green Building Ordinance,
. requiring all commercial and residential projects to submit a LEED or GreenPoint checklist. Projects that register intent to
achieve LEED Certified or higher may receive expedited review and reduced permit fees.
• As per Ordinance#1727 passed by the City Council in 2004, all city buildings shall meet a minimum LEED Silver certification.
All projects pursing LEED are required to include a LEED Accredited Professional on the project team.The ordinance added
Chapter 15.74 to the municipal code.
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Contact: Karen Poppleton, Logan City Environmental Center; (435)716-9750 •
Los Altos, CA: .
On October 23,2007 the Los Altos City Council approved a green building ordinance, adding Chapter 12.66 to Los Altos
Municipal Code that requires all future public buildings of 7,500 square feet or larger to be designed to perform at least 15% •
more efficiently than CA Title 24 and to achieve LEED Silver certification. Prior to issuing a formal certificate of occupancy,the .
city will verify proof of certification. •
The ordinance also requires that all public and commercial buildings are designed to perform 15% better than Title 24 of .
California Code of Regulations. Single and multi-family homes must be GreenPoint rated. .
http'//ordlink.corn/codes/losaltos/index.hlm (Chapter 12.66) •
Contact: •
Kirk Ballard, Building Official; City of Los Altos Building Department; (650)947-2752 •
Los Altos Hills, CA: •
On October 9, 2008, the Los Altos Hill Town Council adopted an ordinance requiring all new municipal building over 1,000 sq
ft to achieve at minimum LEED Certification. New residential projects and major additions must achieve LEED Certification •
under LEED for Homes or 50 points on the GreenPoint checklist. Residential projects that achieve LEED Silver certification •
shall qualify for expedited building plan review. Residential projects that achieve LEED Gold certification shall qualify for
guaranteed building inspections within two working days of a request for inspection.Residential projects that achieve LEED •
Platinum shall receive a customized plaque recognizing the special achievement.
http://www.losaitoshills ca gov/documents/city_Council_meetings/2008/LAH_Cily_Council_2008-10-
o9/LAHCC_20081009_A104.pdf(scroll down to page 2)
Los Angeles, CA: •
On April 22, 2008 Mayor Villaraigosa signed the Private Sector Green Building Plan into law, requiring all private development •
of 50,000 square feet or greater to earn LEED Certified and offering expedited plan review and permitting for all projects
seeking LEED Silver, as verified by LEED Accredited city officials.The law further commits City resources towards the
ongoing review and improvement of City codes, removing obstacles to green building. Furthermore, the law creates a cross- •
departmental Sustainabilkr Team to revise green building policies and engage the development community, directs the City to
continue to work with DWP to offer Financial incentives for green building, directs that certain city staff be trained as LEED .
APs,and establishes the Mayor's Annual Award of Excellence in Sustainable Design&Construction. Click here to view the
press release.
On March 14, 2007,the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power Board of Commissioners,who are appointed by the
Mayor and approved by the City Council, amended the Rules Governing Water and Electric Service to provide expedited water
and electrical connections for buildings that meet LEED Silver. LADWP has also adopted a policy to require that its .
construction projects meet LEED Silver. In addition,builders and developers can take advantage of the LADWP Green •
Building Incentive that offers up to$250,000 in Financial incentives to assist a building in becoming more green and meeting .
LEED standards.
Incentive Program: http-//mrww.ladwp.com/ladwp/curs/ladwp008621 jsp
LADWP Decision: hup://www ladwp.com/Iadwp/cros/ladwp009184.)sp
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• Contact:
. LADWP Energy Efficiency Team; (213)367-4134;
• In August,2006 the LA Department of Building and Safety Board passed a motion to initiate a Priority Plan Check for Green
. Building Projects for projects with proof of registration with USGBC at the Silver level.
. Contact:
. LA Department of Buildings and Safety; (213)473-3231
• On April 19, 2002, the Los Angeles City Council adopted the City of Los Angeles Sustainable Building Initiative, requiring all
• city-owned and city-funded construction projects of 7,500 square feet or larger and constructed after July 1, 2003 to earn
LEED Certified On May 15, 2000 LA City Council Motion#18 called for the Department of Public Works to construct its
• buildings to LEED Certified, laying the groundwork for the 2002 city-wide public sector adoption.
• View the Sustainable Building Initiative Booklet here:
• http://eng.lacity.org/projects/sdip/dors/SusLainableBuildinginitiativoActionPlanFinaIO43003.pdf
View the City's LEED project status document: http:/ieng.lacity.org/projects/sdip/dots/leedprojecs[alus.pdf
• Contact:
• Deborah Weintraub, City Architect; (213)485-5499
• Los Angeles County, CA:
• On January 16, 2007, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors adopted the Los Angeles County Sustainable Design
• Program, requiring all new County buildings over 10,000 square feel to earn LEED Silver certification.
. Monte Sereno, CA:
• On February 19, 2008, the Monte Serena City Council adopted Resolution 3326, requiring all new or renovated municipal
• building over 5,000 sq ft to achieve LEED Silver certification.
• Monterey, CA:
• On July 1,2008, the Monterey City Council adopted an ordinance requiring that all new municipal buildings earn LEED Silver
• certification.The ordinance also requires all new private commercial buildings to follow the LEED for New Construction
. guidelines and all new private residential buildings to follow the Build It Green's New Construction Green Building Guidelines.
• Contact:
• Jeff Condit, Building Safety and Inspection. City of Monterey; conditgci.monterey ca.us
• Oakland, CA:
• In April 2005,the City of Oakland City Council adopted a Green Building Ordinance requiring municipal projects, including new
• construction and renovation with a minimum construction cost of$3 million,to achieve LEED Silver certification.The ordinance
• was added to the Oakland Municipal Code under Chapter 15.35
• Oakland's 2005 Ordinance also promotes the use of green building strategies in private sector development by offering free
• technical assistance, green building guidelines and public promotion for qualified projects.
• Contact:
• Ferial Mosley, Recycling Specialist, City of Oakland; (510) 238-7433; fmosley@oaklandnet.com
• Palo Alto, CA:
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On May 12,2008, the Palo Alto City Council adopted Ordinance 237.08 requiring all new commercial construction larger than .
5,000 sq r1 to earn LEED Silver certification and all commercial renovations over 5,000 sq ft or$500,000 to earn LEED
Certified. For residential construction and major renovation, the ordinance also requires that applicable projects earn minimum •
scores from Build It Green's GreenPoint rating system. •
Contact: •
Kristin Heinen, Sustainability/Associate Planner, City of Palo Alto, 650.329.2189; kristin heinen@cityofpeloalto.org •
Pasadena, CA: •
On April 7,2008, the Pasadena City Council adopted Ordinance 7137, requiring all new municipal buildings and all municipal •
renovations over 15.000 sq ft to earn a minimum of LEED Silver certification.The Ordinance also requires new commercial •
buildings over 50.000 sq ft to earn a minimum of LEED Silver certification.All projects covered by this ordinance must achieve
earn LEED credit WEc3.1,Water Efficiency. � •
http:llwww cityofpasadena net/councilagendas/2008%20agendas/Apr_07_08/961.pdf •
On December 19,2005, the City Council passed Ordinance#7031, effective April 2006,requiring all new commercial and •
residential construction to achieve the LEED Certified level at a minimum.This includes commercial construction of 25.000 •
square feet or more, residential buildings at least four stones high, and city buildings of 5,000 square feet or more. Find .
Ordinance 97031 under title 14 chapter 14.90. •
Developers who exceed the minimum certification will qualify for a rebate from Pasadena Water and Power.The PWP High- •
Performance Building Program matches one month's electricity savings for each percent efficiency better than code that the
building performs(capped at$100,000),Additionally, developers who include affordable housing will earn a construction tax
rebate of$1000 per unit. PWP's Pasadena LEED Certification Program offers$15,000 grants for applicants who achieve •
LEED Certified (320,000 For Silver, 325,000 for Gold and$30,000 for Platinum). •
Contact: •
Alice Sterling, Green Building Coordinator; City of Pasadena; (626)744-3726;asterling@cityorpasadena.net
Pleasanton, CA:
The City Council adopted Ordinance#1873 in December 2002 requiring all commercial construction projects over 20,000
square feet to follow guidelines to meet LEED Certified. Formal certification with USGBG is encouraged but not required.
Contact: •
Heidi Kline,Associate Planner; (925)931-5609; hkline@ci plessanton.ca.us •
Rohnert Park, CA: •
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In February and March,2007 the City of Rohnert Park adopted a green building ordinance and two subsequent resolutions •
addressing nearly all building types. Effective'July 1, new commercial buildings, retrofits and remodelings of commercial- .
interiors for bath the public and the private sector must meet a variety of minimum standards ranging from LEED Certified or
equivalent to LEED Silver based on a three-tiered matrix by project type. City-owned and city-funded projects greater than •
20.000 square feet require LEED Silver. Slightly lower thresholds are required for smaller protects. •
This legislation further requires compliance with other green building rating and certification systems for residential •
construction. •
The city also passed an energy efficiency ordinance applying to all residential construction permit applicants after April 27, •
2007. •
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• http//www rpcity.org/content/view/468/183/
. Sacramento, CA:
• On September 21,2004, Mayor Heather Fargo signed Resolution 42004-751 requiring LEED certification of all city projects.
• For projects over 5,000 ft2 the city has a goal of LEED Silver certification.
Contact:
• Keith Roberts, City of Sacramento General Services, (916)808-4726; kRoberts@cityofsacramento.org
• San Bernardino County, CA:
• On August 28,2007 the County Board of Supervisors passed several measures to advance green building within the county.
• All new county construction and major renovations will be required to meet LEED Silver. Priority plan review will also be
• offered to homebuilders who meet certain sustainable criteria.The county is also developing a website to educate the public
. on green building principles.
• http://www greencountysb.com/
San Diego, CA:
San Diego Mayor Dick Murphy included requiring LEED Silver certification of all municipal projects among his 10 goals for the
year in his 2002 State of the City Address.The city subsequently adopted LEED for all public projects over 5,000 sq ft in April,
• 2002.
In addition to its public sector adoptions, in 2002 San Diego developed the Sustainable Building Expedite Program that uses
• LEED criteria and provides significant plan review and construction incentives. Private sector buildings registering for LEED
• certification may be eligible to receive technical green building training, support, and education. Commercial projects achieving
• LEED Silver certification will benefit from expedited discretionary processes.
. http://www sdenergy.org/
• Contact:
. Tom Blair, Environmental Services; (858)492-6001
• San Francisco, CA
• On August 4, 2008, Mayor Newsom signed the San Francisco Green Building Ordinance, requiring proof of green building
• practices and LEED certification for all residential and commercial buildings in the City.Small residential building projects, less
• than 75 feet tall and with four or less units, must submit a Build It Green New Home Construction Checklist and midsize,
• multifamily building projects must submit a Build It Green Multifamily Checklist.The Ordinance also requires residential
• buildings over 75 feet to be LEED Certified and earn specific credits addressing water efficiency,stormwater management and
construction waste management(WE0,1, WEc3.1, MRc2.1, SSe6.1 and SSc6.2). After January 1,2010, these buildings must
• earn LEED Silver certification.The Ordinance further requires commercial buildings between 5,000 and 25,000 sq ft and no
• more than 75 ft tall must complete a LEED Checklist beginning January 1, 2009 with five specific Credits addressing water
• efficiency,stormwater management and construction waste management(WEc1.1, WEc3.1, MRc2.1, SSc6A and SSc6.2)
. required in 2010,six in 2011, and seven in 2012. Commercial buildings over 25,000 sq ft and taller than 75 ft must be LEED
Certified, with the minimum increasing to LEED Silver January 1, 2009 and LEED Gold January 1, 2012.These buildings must
• earn specific credits addressing water efficiency, stormwater management and construction waste management(WEc1.1,
• WEc3.1, MRc2.1, SSo6.1 and SSc6.2). Major renovations to commercial buildings over 25,000 sq ft must be LEED Certified,
• with the minimum increasing to LEED Silver January 1, 2009 and LEED Gold January 1, 2012.
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On September 28,2006, the Director of the San Francisco Planning Department issued Director's Bulletin 2006-02 giving .
priority permit review to all new and renovated buildings that achieve LEED Gold certification.
On May 18, 2004, the Board of Supervisors of the City and County of San Francisco, CA adopted Ordinance M88-04 (adding a .
new Chapter 7 to the Environment Code)requiring all municipal new construction,additions and major renovation protects
over 5,000 sq ft starting conceptual design on'or after September 18 to achieve a LEED Silver certification The ordinance also •
requires that a LEED Accredited Professional be a member of each design team. ,
Contact: •
Mark Palmer, Green Building Coordinator; San Francisco Department of the Environment; (415)355-3710;
mark,paimer@Ffgov.org I .
Rich Chien, Residential Green Building Coordinator, San Francisco Department of the Environment; richard.chien@sfgov.org .
San Jose, CA: IS
On October 7, 2008,the San Jose City Council adopted a Private Sector Green Building Policy, requiring all new Tier 1
commercial and industrial buildings under 25,000 sq ft to follow the LEED checklist by 2009 and all new Tier 1 commercial and ,
industrial buildings under 10,000 sq ft to follow the LEED checklist by 2012-The policy also requires all new Tier 2 commercial .
and industrial buildings larger than 25,000 sq ft to earn LEED Silver certification by 2009 and all new Tier 2 commercial and
industrial buildings larger than 10,000 sq ft to earn LEED Silver certification by 2012. New residential buildings with less than
10 units must follow the Green Points or LEED checklist by 2009 and new residential buildings with 10 or more units must earn
LEED Certification or 50 points from Green Points. New residential buildings over 75 feel tall must earn LEED certified by .
2009 and LEED Silver certification by 2012-
htlp!//www sanjoscca.gov/clerk/Agenda/20081007/20081007_0702.pdf(scroll down to page 14) .
The City of San Jose adopted a green building policy in 2001 requiring LEED certification of all municipal projects over 10,000
square feet. •
On March 6 2007,the City Council unanimously voted to adopt a revised green building policy that requires all new municipal •
buildings over 10,000 square feel to be constructed to achieve LEED Silver at a minimum,with a goal of reaching LEED Gold •
or Platinum.The policy,first introduced last year, will apply to all new projects budgeted for fiscal year 2007-2008 and .
thereafter.
Contact: •
Mary Tucker, City of San Jose; (408)975-2581; mary.tucker@sanoseca.gov
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San Mateo County, CA: .
On February 26,2008,the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors adopted Ordinance 04411, requiring all new commercial
and industrial buildings and building additions over 3,000 sq ft to be LEED Certified.The Ordinance further provides expedited .
permitting for projects earning a minimum of LEED Silver certification.The ordinance also requires all new residential buildings
to Lam LEED for Homes Certified or earn 50 Green Points on the appropriate GreenPoint Rated checklist,with expedited
permitting available to LEED for Homes certified projects and projects GreenPoint Rated at 75 points or higher.
San Mateo County adapted a Sustainable Building Policy December 11,2001. The policy requires new protects and additions
that are built by the County and greater than 5000 sq.ft,to achieve certification at the highest practicable LEED rating level.
Smaller projects are encouraged to follow LEED standards but are not required to submit documentation for certification.
In addition to the policy, the County offers information on green building and is developing a Countywide Green Building
Program. •
Sustainable Building Policy: http'//www recycleworks org/greenbuilding/sus building_policy tdml
Contact:
• Jill Boone, RecycleWorks Programs Manager, Green Building Coordinator; (650)599-1433;pll@RccycleWorks org
. San Rafael, CA:
On July 2,2007.The San Rafael City Council approved Ordinance 1853.the Planning Commission's recommendations to
adopt green building standards for the City. New or renovated civic and commercial construction exceeding 5,000 square feet
. is required to meet the equivalent of LEED Certified, as verified by a LEED AP. New or renovated commercial Construction
. exceeding 30,000 square feet is required to achieve LEED Silver certification. Residential projects must achieve a minimum
level of Build it Green's Green Point Rated system.
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. Contact:
Community Development Department; (415)485-3085
Santa Clara, CA:
• On December 4, 2007,the Santa Clara City Council adopted a Near Term Policy on Green Building Strategy requiring all
• future public buildings greater than 5,000 square feet to achieve LEED Silver certification, formally recognizing the USGBC's
and Build it Green's green building rating systems, and requiring a completed LEED or GreenPoint Rated checklist with each
planning application
• Contact:
• Santa Clarita, CA:
. On August 23, 2005,the Santa Clarita City Council adopted Resolution 05-103, requiring new municipal construction to earn
• LEED Silver certification and all renovation of municipal buildings to follow LEED for Existing Building guidelines.The
Resolution also encourages private developers to follow LEED guidelines.
http//www sanla-clarita.com/cilyhall/adman/purchasing/resolutions/05-103°/20°/h20EPP.htm (scroll down to Section 3.6)
• Santa Cruz, CA:
In 2005, the City of Santa Cruz adopted Ordinance#2005-29 amending the municipal code to establish a green building
. program.As of January 1, 2007,all residential and commercial buildings that are new, remodeled,or undergo alterations are
subject to compliance with green building standards such as LEED.
• Santa Monica, CA:
. On April 22,2008,the Santa Monica City Council adopted Ordinance 2261, amending the Ctty green building codes to require
. all new single-family and multi-family residences under four stories to submit a LEED For Homes checklist, a GreenPoint Rated
checklist, or a Santa Monica green building checklist.The ordinance requires all other new buildings to submit a LEED for New
Construction checklist.The ordinance also provides expedited permitting for new projects registered with LEED for New
. Construction, LEED for Homes,and LEED for Core and Shell.
On August 9,2005,the Santa Monica City Council adopted Ordinance 2165, allowing projects registered with LEED For New
Construction, LEW for Homes,and LEED for Core and Shell to receive expedited permitting.
http•//wvvw0l.smgov.net/cityclerk/cou ncil/agendas/2005/20050913/wm20050809.htm
On January 23, 2004,the City of Santa Monica launched the Santa Monica Green Building LEED Grant Program, providing
. Financial incentives for private developers who earn LEED certification.The grants start at$20,000 for projects that earn LEED
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Certified and increase in $5.000 increments to$35,000 for projects that earn LEED Platinum certification. On April 22,2008, .
the program was expanded to include LEED for Homes certified projects The grants range from$2,000 to$3.500 for multi-
family projects and from$3,000 to $8,000 for single family homes.
In 2000,the Santa Monica City Council adopted, as part of the annual budget, a requirement that all new municipal •
construction earn at minimum LEED Silver certification.
See Santa Monica's Green Building Program websile for a comprehensive overview of the City's green building initiatives. •
Contact: .
Brenden McEneaney, Green Building Program Advisor; City of Santa Monica; (310)458-8549;
brenden mceneaney@smgov.net
Santa Rosa, CA:
On December 18, 2007,the Santa Rosa City Council adopted Resolution 27001, requiring all new commercial interior projects •
to demonstrate the achievement of 20 credits on the LEED for Commercial Interiors guidelines. •
Stockton, CA: •
On September 9, 2008,the Stockton City Council adopted Resolution 08-0371, requiring all new municipal buildings that •
exceed 5,000 sq ft and all new non-residential buildings that exceed 5.000 sq ft to earn at minimum LEED Silver certification or •
comparable standard.The implementation schedule can be adjusted so that the LEED Silver requirements can be
implemented first for non-residential buildings'that exceed 20,000 sq ft and later non-residential buildings between 20.000 sq ft
and 5,000 sq ft.
Sunnyvale, CA:
On January 26, 2004,the City of Sunnyvale adopted Ordinance#2002-0076, updating the city's building codes in areas zoned
for industrial use to allow ai density bonus of 5% FAR for buildings that achieve a minimum of LEED Certified.The municipal
code improvement can be found under Title 19.32.075 of the Sunnyvale Municipal Code.
Contact: •
Steve Lynch, City of Sunnyvale; (408)730-2793; SLynch@ci sunnyvale ca.us •
Temecula, CA:
On July 22, 2006,the Temecula City Council adopted Resolution 08-74 requiring all new municipal buildings and additions to
existing municipal buildings to be LEED Certified.The resolution also encourages new residential buildings to follow the
guidelines of the Caldfornia Green Builder Program.
Union City, CA:
On March 14, 2006, the Union City City Council adopted Resolution 3130-06, encouraging all commercial and institutional •
projects to follow the LEED for New Construction checklist and seek LEED certification.The projects are also encouraged to
have a LEED Accredited Professional as a principal member of the design team.All residential projects, including both multi-
family and single family,are encouraged to follow the Alameda County Green Building Guidelines and achieve standards set .
by StopWaste.org. .
West Hollywood, CA: .
On July 16,2007, the City Council of West Hollywood passed Ordinance 07-762, the Green Building Requirements and
Incentives for Private Development, with an ordinance requiring residential and commercial projects to meet minimum energy .
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• conservation and renewable energy requirements.Applicable projects include new construction, remodeling and tenant
• improvements.Applicable projects must earn a minimum number of paints from the locally-developed West Hollywood Green
Points program. Developments that achieve a minimum of LEED Certified are exempt from the requirements of the program.
• The Ordinance also calls for the establishment of a Green Buildings Resource Center at West Hollywood City Hall
• httpl/www newrules.orglelectricity/solarwesihollywood.html
In April of 2006,West Hollywood passed Ordinance#06.733, requiring all new, remodeled or public tenant improvement
projects of 10,000 square feet or greater to achieve a minimum of LEED Certified.All other publicly-funded buildings are
• encouraged to achieve the LEED Certified.
• Contact:
• Steve Bailey, Building Safety Manager; (323)$48-8351
• Windsor, CA:
On May 16,2007,the Windsor Town Council adopted Ordinance 2007-215, requiring all new commercial buildings and all
renovations of commercial buildings in which more than 75 percent of the existing building is demolished to achieve a
• minimum of 20 credits on the LEED checklist.The Ordinance also requires all new residential buildings to achieve a minimum
• of 50 points on the Green Point rating system.
• Excerpted from U.S. Green Building Council lists
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