HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-06-2020 Climate Action CommissionIowa City Climate Action Commission Agenda
Monday, July 6, 2020, 3:30 — 5:00 p.m.
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Meeting Agenda:
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Approval of June 1, 2020 minutes
4. Public Comment of items not on the Agenda (Commentators shall address the Commission for
no more than 3 minutes. Commissioners shall not engage in discussion with the public
concerning said items).
5. Update from Juli Seydell-Johnson, Parks and Rec Director on tree removal and increasing prairie
plantings
6. Staff Announcements
a. Action items from last meeting
b. Updates on actions in "Accelerating Iowa City's Climate Actions' (see attachment). This
will alternate with Climate Action and Outreach Office update.
7. New Business:
a. Review and discuss building, adaptation and sustainable lifestyle metrics
b. Public input on "Accelerating Iowa City's Climate Actions"
c. Equity considerations for all climate actions
d. Update on working groups
i. Buildings (Krieger, Karr, Soglin)
ii. Transportation (Leckband, Giannakouros)
iii. Outreach (Krieger, Fraser, Holbrook, Bradley)
iv. Equity/Adaptation (Tate, Hutchinson)
v. Waste (Bradley, Sarsfield)
8. Recap of actionable items for commission, working groups, and staff
9. Adjourn
If you will need disability -related accommodations in order to participate in this meeting, please contact
Brenda Nations, Sustainability Coordinator, at 319-356-6161 or at brenda-nations(Oiowa-citv.org. Early
requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.
MINUTES PRELIMINARY
IOWA CITY CLIMATE ACTION COMMISSION
J U N E 1, 2 0 2 0 — 3:30 PM — FORMAL MEETING
ELECTRONIC MEETING
Electronic Meeting
(Pursuant to Iowa Code section 21.8)
An electronic meeting is being held because a meeting in person is impossible
or impractical due to concerns for the health and safety of Commission
members, staff and the public presented by COVID-19.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Madeleine Bradley, Grace Holbrook, John Fraser, Stratis
Giannakouros, Kasey Hutchinson, GT Karr, Matt Krieger, Jesse
Leckband, Katie Sarsfield, Becky Soglin, Eric Tate
MEMBERS ABSENT:
STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Gardner, Wendy Ford, Brenda Nations
OTHERS PRESENT: John Barr, Sylvia Cassada
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
None
CALL TO ORDER:
Krieger called the meeting to order.
APPROVAL OF MAY 4, 2020 MINUTES:
Fraser moves to approve the minutes from May 4, 2020.
Giannakouros seconds the motion, a vote was taken and the motion passes 10-0 (Sarsfield not
present for the vote).
PUBLIC COMMENT OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
John Barr noted since early January he and his neighbors over on the far east side, bordering
on Scott Park, had been observing some tree removal along Ralston Creek and they've been
engaging the parks department in ongoing discussion, and had a formal meeting with them in
February. Barr stated the parks to prairies concept certainly seems to be a component of the
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June 1, 2020
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Climate Action Plan and it spills over certainly into the area of outreach where we're concerned
about interacting and educating and engaging the public. The epiphany that they had in talking
to the parks department was that aside from the prairie concept, they seem to be concerned
about creek bed erosion and the tactic they're employing is to do radical tree removal along
certain areas or adjacent to the creek. Barr noted the concern being with the concept of
preserving canopy, canopy refers to mature trees that have a significant carbon offset, and he
wanted to call this to the Commission's attention the fact that there are certain standard
maintenance practices of the parks department adopting what he chooses to call radical tree
removal of mature trees along the creek beds really doesn't seem to be congruent with the
overall Climate Action Plan. Barr is wondering what steps the Commission has to bring these
into harmony.
Giannakouros asked why does removing trees actually lessens erosion. Barr stated their
contention is there are a number of invasive species encroaching in on the creek bed and that
rationale did not really resonate with members of his neighborhood who have forestry
background. They have removed wholes sloths of trees along Court Street so a span of what
formerly was about 70 trees has been reduced to 15 and that's not even within 25 yards of a
creek bed. Another section along a creek bed has one mature tree remaining. So what he has
seen is they're adopting a maintenance strategy to be able to get equipment in to mow along
the creek beds unobstructed by trees. They have observed in the neighborhood there are trees
that remain with roots protruding on the creek bed. The park department's explanation is they're
going to plant prairies and other things along this area too but Barr noted in his experience,
prairies planted in areas that flood, which is what part of lower Scott Park is intended for, really
may show robustness for a couple of years and ultimately rot out due to the moisture. He thinks
they're kind of flying under the radar with a hardcore maintenance plan here that really doesn't
match very well with what should be the concept for canopy protection.
Giannakouros noted Barr was basically asking what steps the Commission is taking to assure
that the standard maintenance practices of the parks department are congruent with
accelerating Iowa City's climate actions and is encouraging steps be taken.
Krieger stated the Commission can hear the comments at this point and then explore those
further as needed in future agenda topics, at this point they're not supposed to have discussion.
Sylvia Cassada noted Miriam Kashia was unavailable to make this meeting, so she offered to
step in on behalf of 100 Grannies here from Iowa City. They wanted to approach the
Commission with 100 Grannies idea project that they would like to engage the Commission in
and receive like further guidance. They sent an email to Nations earlier asking her about their
concern regarding the prairie expansion project in Iowa City. They are left wondering whether
cover crops have an appropriate place in any of these types of prairie/conservation projects.
They understand that Iowa City has some vacant lots that are owned by the City and they'd like
to know instead of just having weeds growing on them, whether it be appropriate and prudent to
start considering having cover crops added to those areas, and the beauty of having some of
those cover crops added to these areas will improve the soil quality and adds nitrogen
sequestering carbon. Cassada said they could turn this into an opportunity for unemployed
youth to be a part of the conservation effort that's sponsored by the City. They also think that
this would build up soil in areas that that public has come to enjoy, such as Wetherby park or
Mosquito Flats. They'd really like to take this a step further in making sure that public spaces
where the City controls the land is building up the soil as well. They are looking forward to
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hearing back as to a possibility of partnering up with respective departments that could help
them with 100 Grannies working together to make this happen and take the soil to the next level
for a lot of good reasons.
STAFF/COMMISSION ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Discussion of updated work plan for "Accelerating Iowa City's Climate Actions": Wendy
Ford introduced herself and stated her job at the City is Economic Development Coordinator
and noted some of the goals and missions of the Commission cross over to what she is working
on. She noted they have a number of urban renewal areas in the City and urban renewal areas
simply enable the use of tax increment financing used in projects that City Council deems
worthy. Sometimes there are projects, such as the Chauncey, that come to the City and ask for
assistance in creating this building that wouldn't have been create otherwise. In this case, they
want to target the industrial areas, and the area that fits between the Iowa Interstate railroad
that heads out of town going east near southeast and Highway 6. Between those two tracks,
they have several industrial areas and three of them have significant increment built up in them
and really that means there is a pot of money that could be used for incentivizing industrial
users to make energy efficiency improvements in their buildings. Ford stated they've been
working on legislative process for this and that involves putting a plan together, bringing that
before Council, having a public hearing and then the hard work begins which will be educating
and making one-on-one visits with the industrial users, especially those they think could really
benefit from a significant spur to help them make those energy efficiency improvements. What
they haven't worked out yet are the nuts and bolts of deciding what kind of project or how a
project should come to be. They want to bring a third -party evaluator in to look at the project
from the company to determine whether or not that indeed would be worthy of public financing.
Ford noted there are lots of details to be worked out that but they'll see those urban renewal
area happen yet this month in June and that is the beginning of the process, the rest will take
another four to six weeks or so. Ford noted as they look forward the model is fairly simple that
they've written into the existing urban renewal areas to amend. It's simple enough that they
could do the same thing in two other urban renewal areas that are not industrial but have
enjoyed a significant increase in property tax base from which they could fund additional
projects for energy efficiency in both downtown and Riverfront Crossings. Ford stated they've
got a big year ahead of them in amending these urban renewal plans, but the industrial ones
should have a significant impact in the carbon reduction goals.
Ford stated they have two other things they are working on. One, a tax abatement area that
they're putting together which is designed for small business and property owners essentially
along the Highway 6 corridor. The area between Sycamore Mall all the way out to the
intersection of Highway 218 and Highway 1 south and then up into Gilbert Street a little bit and
Riverside Drive. This is a tax abatement area that will allow for an abatement of taxes that
would occur when a business makes an improvement in their building that raises the tax base of
that building or taxable value by at least 50%.
The second is to provide an abatement for projects who are doing a certain level of energy
efficiency. They are trying to hash through that, and they'll have more to come as they get those
parameters figured out. Ford stressed the abatement of taxes is for three years to five years.
The third program they want to do and have been talking about for some time is a green
business recognition program. What they had initially planned was to have businesses who
wanted to participate in being recognized for their greenness sign up to participate in Portfolio
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Manager, which is the online database that helps track improvements on energy use. This was
a little bit slow going and they're making a little bit of a pivot here and want to something
simpler, so they're still determining what that is now, but they will work closely with the Chamber
of Commerce to reach a wide public and pull them in very quickly.
Tate asked for Ford to repeat the location of the proposed project and what kind of things would
be used to help support energy efficiency. Ford replied that the three urban renewal areas that
are established already that they would be amending to be able to do this program which is all
the way up to Scott Boulevard and the area east of that bordered by the City limits of Iowa City.
The next one in is Heinz Road urban renewal area which has Heinz Road running right up the
middle of it and the third one is the Sycamore Mall/First Avenue area which includes the P&G
buildings, the Sycamore Mall or Iowa City Marketplace area. The question was how the
projects would be determined or what kinds of projects. Ford said the tax increment financing
funds in an urban renewal area have to be reused in that area only. They can't take an increase
in taxes from one area and spend it in another, the only exception is with affordable housing.
Krieger suggested sharing a summary of that proposal along with a map or a description of the
zones for the Commission's further review, perhaps the buildings working group would want to
look at that in more detail.
Nations thanked Ford and noted it's really exciting working on some of those larger buildings in
that industrial area and thinks it can make a really big difference in using some of those funds to
lower the energy. Looks forward to seeing the results of that.
Nations next noted since Monroe could not be here today, she wanted to give an update
regarding financials and about recovery with the COVID crisis. In May, the City Manager gave
an update for the financial picture for the City and although some of the funds have been
impacted, primarily the parking fund, which has really been heavily impacted, they're still in
pretty good solid financial shape. He did acknowledge they may have more impacts to the
general fund in future years if property values drop, but they presented a recovery approach
model at the mid -May meeting and Council is still deliberating on how they want to proceed.
However, the emergency tax levy that's been dedicated to climate action is still allocated to the
projects in the Plan, and that the recovery strategies actually might necessitate speeding up
some of the later projects, some of the rebates and incentives, but all the approved projects are
still moving ahead. Nations reiterated everything still is going straight ahead they'll continue to
seek assistance from the Commission and the working groups for execution of these efforts.
Also the federal funding for transit support will assist and provide funding that can really boost
the efforts to implement the transit system improvements that will be recommended in the
forthcoming study.
Nations next wanted to talk about Excel chart in the packet with all the 35 actions that are going
to be initiated this year. She acknowledged this group talked about having a work plan for each
of those actions. Nations noted this is not a complete work plan by any means, but they started
putting dates to when they will initiate these, so for each of the 35 actions that they plan to
initiate this year, they have added the month that they're going to initiate the work plan. For the
next meeting she will organize it by month, which would be easier to read, and will add some
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columns for what area the action is in. Nations reviewed what they have worked on as a city in
the month of May. As they move forward, they can show the Commission what they've worked
on each month and if they're behind or ahead of schedule. Nations acknowledged there was a
request last meeting by somebody from the public wanting to know how they were going to
update everyone on the successes, so hopefully this chart will accomplish that.
Krieger thanked Nations for putting this together and thinks this will be a good communication
tool for the Commission and the working groups and it might also be a good communication tool
for the public, to increase transparency. Is there a way this could be shared or developed as a
tool on the website or in the newsletter or something as an attachment to be publicly shared that
is easy to find.
Nations noted that is a really good comment and something that they have thought about. Since
this is their first draft, they didn't feel it was ready for primetime, but it would be good to show
people that they do take this seriously and are working on some of these things.
Krieger asked if Nations wanted any comments or feedback on any of the specific items at this
point, or wait on that until they've had a bit more time to review within the working groups and
individually, Nations said either is fine, if someone has input, she is happy to hear it at any time.
Soglin noted it's good to see the equity column there and was wondering if they had developed
the equity co -benefit sheet. She wasn't clear whether that was something that needed to go to
Council and be approved by them in order for the Commission to use it to keep track of things.
Nations stated she and Monroe had talked about that, but from what she understands she didn't
realize anybody thought it was going to go to Council and she doesn't think that's something
that they need to go to Council for approval. Nations stated she was a little confused by the
email because they had talked about the City using it in projects and if City staff was going to
use it, then it probably would go to City Council. If this group wants to create something like that
and use it, it doesn't need to go to City Council. Soglin asked if there was consensus amongst
the Commission then to use the co -benefit sheet. Krieger replied there was consensus.
Nations stated the confusion is the Excel chart will be used by staff and the Commission, but the
co -benefit sheet is something that this Commission would use, not City staff. The co -benefit
sheet can be made into a PDF and put on the Google Docs drive for the working groups to use.
Updates from Climate Action and Outreach office: Nations stated she has a few quick
updates for other things that they're doing in the Climate Action and Outreach office. She
showed a document with recent activity so the Commission could see what they're working on
and focused on this month. She already went over the tracking and reporting of their actions,
they are finishing up the climate action grants that they were awarded last year and should be
finished by the end of this month. They awarded the grants for this next fiscal year and those
recipients will be named in the sustainability newsletter that goes out this week.
Krieger asked how many were awarded this year. Nations stated there were 10, except some
of them might get rescinded because of different situations. She noted they got a really
interesting mix of grant applications and feel really good about those.
Nations has also been working on the metrics spreadsheet so they can track their progress.
They've also been working on three festivals coming up, the Monarch Festival, which is going to
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be virtual, the Farm To Street, they are still working on what that might look like in August, and
then the Climate Festival which will be addressed during the outreach working group update.
REQUEST FROM COUNCIL FOR COMMISSION TO RESEARCH AND ADVISE COUNCIL
ON THE CARBON FOOTPRINT OF BUILDINGS OF VARYING DENSITY AND SCALE:
Krieger noted this item has been assigned to the Building's Working Group for further review
and they hope to have a detailed update at next month's meeting.
REVIEW AND DISCUSS TRANSPORATION AND WASTE METRICS
Nations stated one thing she has really been working on is that they'd like some metrics within
the Climate Action Plan and within the specific actions to show the progress so they can see
change and whether their energy is focused in the right places and where they need to tweak
things. There are five groups and her goal is to come up with 15 to 20 approved upon metrics
that can show more details about progress in the climate action work. She has been looking at
other city's metrics and trying to figure out with our specific actions and our goals, how we can
show progress in those areas. She has talked with the transportation working group and also
staff and is feeling pretty good about the transportation metrics but wanted to run this by the
whole group and see if there are any comments or suggestions.
So, with the transportation metrics, greenhouse gas emissions are calculated according to
vehicle miles traveled for all the different vehicles within city limits. But what they want to do as
a group is to encourage people to drive alone less, to ride the bus and walk and bike. They also
want to promote electric vehicles. For each of these metrics in these areas, the City wants to
have its own metric to show that they are working on that ourselves too. The metrics that came
up were total vehicle miles traveled, which is given every year by the DOT and they could divide
that by population. Transit every year provides the number for bus ridership and as previously
reported they have a goal to double the bus ridership. Next was transportation mode spilt,
which is a little bit more mushy. Data is estimated from the American Community Survey from
the census. There are annual estimates, which are only estimated, but every five years there is
a better number to find out how many people are biking and walking to work. They would like to
get the number of registered electric vehicles, which would be countywide, and they might look
at that by percentage of all vehicles or by population. Then the City wants to look at vehicle
miles traveled per the amount of gasoline that they use for those vehicles and hope that
improves as they have increased electric cars and efficient cars. So those are the type of things
that they're looking at. If they see that our transportation amounts have gone up, they can
understand why and note if they need to work on getting people to ride the bus more or walk.
Tate stated one of the things they talked about briefly last time was not just looking at these
things schematically, but also maybe thinking about level of impact for some of these things,
and it might be useful to start considering what projects to do or indicators to implement in the
transportation metrics, one or two of these may be really more impactful than the others.
Nations agreed and stated perhaps one they have the new data person start they could look at
those types of things to see where they are having the biggest impact, not just the number.
Tate stated if they want to spatially disaggregate things, they have to take any indicators and
start with total because they're not going to be able to map that.
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Krieger noted however with bus ridership, for instance, they could see if they had improved
ridership in certain segments of the community neighborhoods.
Nations stated the goal is to first work with staff and working groups to cover all the five sections
of the Plan and then once they get it all firmed up then collect the last two years work. They
completed the Plan in 2018, which would be a baseline. That will show the progress and show
where we need to work. But also, the next Plan update, which we said we're going to do in five
years, is now only three and a half more years.
Nations noted for example if they want to grow electric vehicles and support electric vehicles.
Once they have a baseline if they want electric vehicles to be increased 25% of the passenger
vehicles on the road, and they know if there is currently 5% or 10%, we can know what's
reasonable and what the growth is expected, then have much more concrete goals. The more
concrete numbers are to start with, the more concrete goals are, which is a lot better than
having vague goals.
Soglin noted in the planning world they're reading a lot about the potential that mass and public
transit are really going to be impacted by the virus. Maybe it'll just be a year or two, in a way that
makes it all the more important to be measuring. She doesn't know if there's any new
information out there on how the virus would impact these particular metrics in the sense and if
this is something else they should be measuring? Because there's this new variable that we
didn't really have in mind three or four months ago from a public health point of view.
Soglin also noted perhaps the American Bicycle Professionals will have suggestions on other
data because of the use of mushy data. It's hard to get that data but it would be great if for non -
motorized vehicles they had data that wasn't so mushy. Nations agreed and noted they have
been talking about that internally and if anyone can come up with anything, they'd be happy to
entertain other options. That's why they're vetting it with the different groups and with this
Commission and with City staff and trying to come up with data that is relatively easy to get
every year, and that's available so they can see progress. What they want to see through the
years, even with the virus, are changes from the baseline data. They know these metrics are
behavioral habits with what people do and so if they're not riding the bus, maybe we can see
how people are getting around and how those changes are impacting the goals. They will also
be able to see how things change because of things like this crisis.
Giannakouros noted there will be a data person that comes into the office one thing they can do
in the future would be to normalize these metrics. If one really thinks about measuring metrics
such as bus ridership, its avoided vehicle miles traveled as the common denominator. All of
these five points can be expressed to some degree. If the goal is avoided emissions you can
look at a one person's vehicle miles and that for one person, one car driving around, and that's
the worst case scenario, you can compare that to the emissions from a bus ride versus a single
transit. Then in terms of distributed impact, we can assume that if you are economically
insecure, you're more likely to ride a bus, or you're more likely to have an old car with high
emissions, high maintenance, and you're devoting a larger percentage of your income to transit.
So thinking about that how do we on the back end think about these metrics as proxies for how
to target those groups that can benefit. It does need to be done from a data perspective, to
normalize all those first five metrics, and then think about who the groups are and how they're
just differently impacted by these modes of transit. We want to help those groups, and climate
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action as a vehicle to helping the underserved areas of Iowa City, go hand in hand. That's why
this is a Climate Action Plan and not just an emissions reduction plan. The impact of the
changes in transportation should also have an impact with those groups that we think we should
be helping as a City. The City should start to target getting those old non -efficient cars off the
road, and giving some kind of money incentives to get those cars off the road as the best bang
for our carbon buck and because it helps those families to have an alternative or to get a better
car. That changes the emissions profile. Students at University of Iowa or someone could start
to unpack and figure out are these novel ways of rethinking about how we go after emissions in
the context of energy insecurity, transportation insecurity, low income households, and money
spent there has a disproportionate impact and then getting those emissions reductions. The
goal is to have those people taking the bus, but it is different results from an emissions
standpoint from someone with a fuel -efficient car versus an old, non -efficient car owner taking
the bus.
Soglin wondered if it is worth getting information about the year of the vehicles registered here
but realize you're going to pick up the older ones and probably some will be antique or vintage
that somebody keeps for pleasure, that kind of thing, so that will not be a useful metric.
Nations stated they've looked at different things for transportation and also noted there's a large
portion of the population that their vehicles probably aren't even registered in Johnson County.
So while it would be really interesting to look at Johnson County vehicle registration, it will not
show the whole picture.
Leckband noted that the State rules do have object specific exemptions for additional
information about locations and registrations and it can be shared with municipal government
employees that are doing their work. He doesn't know if there's any restrictions on how you
store that identifying information, but for the purpose of summarizing and evaluating analysis, he
thinks that would be able to be released.
Giannakouros suggested they could also look at the permits the City sells for parking downtown
and track bus ridership and once the bike share program is going get the bike share ridership
tracked as part of the metrics to see if that's increasing or not.
Nations stated that as far as waste metrics go, she has been working with internally with City
staff to get the right ideas and threw out some ideas to them. If we were look at the total amount
recycled or composted, then we aren't really looking at on reduction of consumption. We could
increase recycling but also the consumption could still be increasing, which is not the goal. And
same with composting, it could be just more food waste so they're trying to be really thoughtful
in looking at waste as far as lowering consumption, not just increasing what one does with
waste. The other thing that complicates waste is landfill totals as a rule across the country go
down when the economy goes down and when the economy goes up landfill numbers go up
too, so it's tied in with that. She noted there's all these little ins and outs and complexities that
they're trying to make sure that they capture and then choose the right metrics. As soon as they
get some metrics, she'd like to run them by the waste group and then next she would like to
work on the building metrics with the building working group.
PUBLIC INPUT ON "ACCELERATING IOWA CITY'S CLIMATE ACTIONS"
Krieger stated they've had discussions on this off and on back in March, when they finalized the
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feedback on the 100-Day Report and identified this agenda item to discuss what that public
input process might look like. Through those past discussions, and with the working groups,
they've heard discussions on what the content should be or what the format could be. Now that
they have an engagement specialist, Sarah Gardner, she'll be focused on this effort as well so
perhaps today's discussion could be about providing ideas to Sarah about that process or about
what we as a Commission consider to be the goals for that effort. Nations added Sarah is
already working on the ambassador program that's going to be get input back from the people
that are in that and the Climate Festival (which is going to be a virtual event).
Giannakouros stated just really quickly to go back to the waste metrics for a brief second, and
noted at The University of Iowa they're in the same situation where they had difficulty meeting
the goals because as you get better at recycling, it's like a weird paradox where you just kind of
its self-defeating in terms of an absolute reduction. So that's one piece. The other piece is that
they're looking more intently at sustainable materials management. You all may be familiar with
EPA's SMM program in the State of Iowa, and thinking about how to prioritize things, normally
you prioritize it with what's the most toxic stuff, what's the most carbon intensive stuff, however
in this case, you'd probably look at carbon intensity and then seeing how do we just target those
things more clearly and stop saying we're going to catch all waste. They know with the 337
plastics they don't move the needle very much, but paper and food waste and other organics
do. So, if the City wants to think about aligning waste goals with the Climate Action Plan, you go
after CH4 and CO2 emitters that are the highest bang for your buck, and then quote those things
and not absolute reductions and adopt a modified SMM approach for this Climate Action Plan.
Krieger returned to the public input topic and noted they can talk about general goals, things like
transparency in the process, of working on the Climate Action Plan, gathering input for further
planning as part of specific topics. One of the questions could be should public input focus on
specific topics and projects as they arise rather than the whole plan so that it's easier to
consume and partake.
Soglin stated regarding having some focus on specific projects, noted the Gazette had an
editorial that called upon them as a Commission to basically do a better job though obviously,
it's not just up to us of getting public input, some of that relates to the Council and beyond our
control. Perhaps it's worth getting a better understanding of the process of public input and not
for discussion right now but putting on a future agenda to better understand what has not
worked well in the last couple months and get a little bit of a handle on that and maybe it can
inform what we do going forward.
Krieger agreed and stated especially based on recent events, if Council is going to be voting on
something that is reviewed by the Commission and there's public input process, transparency
process around those issues to more fully vet them. Soglin agreed and noted for example, like
even today, they had two comments from the public that essentially have to do with how staff is
running projects and while she doesn't want to interfere and second guess them without them
also being involved. So it's not just hearing from the public, this process will involve better
understanding how staff are able to directly reach out and inform others and respond to the
input.
Krieger stated there needs to be an ongoing process in place, and he thinks that's part of
outreach and communication. They need to have a continuous method or a certain frequency of
being able to ask for input, provide information, to get what people care about in a structured
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June 1, 2020
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format so people know what to expect
Giannakouros asked if it is onerous to have City staff across departments think in explicit ways
to have answers, for example, the trees in the in the creek bed, can City staff have an answer
for someone on what's the environment or carbon impact and would they have thought of that.
It becomes onerous if everyone constantly has to think of that, but there's probably certain
projects that it might make more sense. If you're going to cut trees down, that's an
environmental trigger, and there should be some way that departments in the City are prepared
to react to that and say what's the rationale, to note they've considered the climate piece, the
environmental piece, and the different stakeholder angles to a certain extent. It wouldn't be for
everything all the time, because that would be onerous, but in cases of cutting a tree down or
putting up a solar array, those things that will get the attention from people that are particularly
concerned in terms of climate language, it should come back to the Commission in some form.
Krieger noted they now have full time staff working on this issue and thinks this is something
that each of the Working Groups should address as part of their discussions in more detail.
ENSURING EQUITY IS CONSIDERED FOR ALL CLIMATE ACTIONS;
Nations noted that equity considerations were added in a column in the spreadsheet for their
review and the Equity Working Group will also review and discuss what was added in that
column.
UPDATE ON WORKING GROUPS:
Buildings
Soglin noted their focus is on the building density issue. At this point they have like seven or
eight things that they are keeping track of and noted that some things, such as the Iowa City
School District data, are on hold due to the virus. She did note they are retroactively getting
building data back to 2008.
Soglin also stated speaking on behalf of the County they have the Johnson County solar group
launched and the first webinar will be on June 411 and can be viewed on the Solarized Johnson
County.org website. Anybody within the city of Iowa City as well as any other city or the
unincorporated areas is eligible to participate.
She noted one a member of the public had raised a concern about just how some residential
energy was depicted in the report and read to address that, and she thinks they satisfied their
inquiry on that.
Transportation:
Leckband noted their discussion was about the metrics and what are the impacts of COVID. He
thinks most of their discussion was engaging. He invited the MidAmerican EV program manager
and so they'll be interfacing with him and he's going to provide a little more information on
programs and how they're helping with other cities.
Climate Action Commission
June 1, 2020
Page 11 of 14
Outreach:
Fraser noted The Climate Festival certainly is an ongoing topic as part of outreach and also the
ambassador program, which he is little behind on because he hasn't had a person to person
meeting with the folks that are doing the main work on that, but it's a big topic.
Fraser stated some good news and bad news for himself. He's just been asked to come back
for a second shot at being the president of the Iowa United Nations Association. He almost
turned it down but there are too many synergies with what he's doing and other aspects of his
life and certainly the Climate Action Committee is one. The advocacy committee of the United
Iowa United Nations has been really aggressive on their thoughts regarding climate action, all
the way from national issues of lobbying to nationally to get back into the Paris Climate
Agreement. Good luck with that under the present administration, but he thinks that could
happen next year. The good news is they're also advocating for encouraging the governor to
join the Climate Action Alliance and to encourage mayors and local officials to join the global
covenant of mayors. When they're talking about Iowa City, they're already there but the good
news is everyone in Iowa United Nations, all the members, all the board members, are focusing
now on what they can do to reduce greenhouse emissions, reduce the carbon footprint, and do
the right thing and support the local climate action plans. So he is going to be in a position to get
some arms and legs to help us which will be good and that's frankly, the only reason he agreed
to come back for another two year term.
Krieger noted with the climate ambassador program, Sarah has been working a lot on that and
at the last outreach meeting she talked about creating a framework for online trainings, how that
overall program might sort out as different tiers of ambassadors, climate ambassadors and
climate leaders, so that that program is in development right now. With the Climate Festival
planning, the festival will now be almost all virtual and spread out over a week rather than just
one day.
Fraser had one more comment regarding the very large elephant in the room and it's got to do
with our whole country being on fire right now with looting and protests and the hijacking of
legitimate protests by unsavory groups that are going well beyond what is appropriate. He
doesn't know if it's appropriate for us as part of the outreach committee or part of the
Commission and maybe they do it through equity, but they need to be proactive. When they see
people with their knee on someone's neck, they need to step up and say, get your knee off their
neck. They can generalize that in all our equity efforts and wonders if it would be worthy or
worthwhile or appropriate to draft some sort of a support statement supporting our mayor and all
the people that are thinking and doing all the right things right now. He doesn't want to get
political about it, but it's almost unsavory that they don't talk about it.
Equity:
Hutchinson noted during their last discussion they pretty much focused on Kuann's work and
most specifically the spreadsheet that she developed that lists all the potential stakeholders in
the community. That's the spreadsheet where she placed them in various quadrants, mainly
based on the degree that they're impacted by climate change. So they want to start with that
and also focus on information received by Nations on what Fort Collins has done because
they've gone through some of these same exercises. Once they go through the documents they
will figure out the mix of stakeholders that they would like to try and start to establish
Climate Action Commission
June 1, 2020
Page 12 of 14
relationships with and invite onto the equity working group to make sure that they come up with
a mix that's going to be most effective at addressing the equity issues and making sure that they
are effective with those efforts.
Tate noted it sounds like they have some homework for our next meeting to take a look at this
equity column that Nations and her colleagues have added to the climate actions and give some
feedback on that.
Waste:
Bradley noted they talked about how COVID has been really challenging for those easy fixes in
regard to waste that usually engage people. For instance, people can't use reusable bags
anymore or reusable mugs and things like that. Therefore they talked about brainstorming ways
to overcome those problems and continue reducing waste in the community and encouraging
people to come and take waste reduction a step further than just those. They are also working
on reaching out to different community members in groups and getting them involved with the
working group.
RECAP OF ACTIONABLE ITEMS FOR COMMISSION, WORKING GROUPS, AND STAFF:
1) Add to the agenda if something comes up during public comments, the Commission
cannot comment at that time but can request it be added to the next agenda.
2) Nations will to answer the 100 Grannies about their email ideas and will also speak with
the parks department as it is really a parks question and she will need to collaborate with
them.
3) Soglin is going to use the co -benefits sheet and change that draft into PDF and upload it
into Google documents and it will be in the next packet.
4) Nations will share that website for transportation and the change in different
transportation how it offsets greenhouse gases.
5) Nations will share the Gazette story for all to read while they think about getting the
process around public input on climate and how they can do better.
6) Nations will to talk to motor vehicles in Johnson County and look into different metrics
that they might use their data.
7) Krieger asked for Nations send a summary of what Ford reviewed along with the map for
zones.
8) Soglin requested exploration of making an online version of this year's action item list so
the public could see that.
9) Working groups are to think about public input methods. Also, if anyone has ideas about
the metrics let Nations know.
Climate Action Commission
June 1, 2020
Page 13 of 14
Nations noted she will send out this list of action items out to the Commission via email.
Giannakouros noted following up on Fraser's comments about recent events, perhaps they
should put a placeholder in the next agenda as it is an endless discussion. Doesn't know what
the limitations or the mandate of this Commission is, but on a personal level, he just feels it's
sickening, the country is in turmoil right now and it's hard for any part of normal business to be
normal and to ignore this. Perhaps for this Commission, the discussion should start off line in the
working groups to figure out what does this mean. He feels it's worth as a public commission
thinking about this.
Krieger added another item might be to get a Parks and Rec update based on the public
comment at the beginning of the meeting. Perhaps they would be able to provide an update on
intent and what's going on there.
ADJOURNMENT:
Krieger made a motion to adjourn.
Tate seconded the motion.
Climate Action Commission
June 1, 2020
Page 14 of 14
CLIMATE ACTION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2019 - 2020
NAME
TERM EXP.
0
0
0
0
N
0
0
N
0
N
0
N
0
N
0
N
Madeleine Bradley
12/31/2022
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
John Fraser
12/31/2020
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Stratis
Giannakouros
UIRep
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Grace Holbrook
12/31/2021
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
O/E
X
X
Kasey Hutchinson
12/31/2022
X
X
X
X
X
X
GT Karr
12/31/2020
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Matt Krieger
12/31/2020
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
MidAmerican
Jesse Leckband
Rep
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Katie Sarsfield
12/31/2020
X
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
X
Becky Soglin
12/31/2022
X
X
X
X
X
X
Eric Tate
12/31/2021
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM No
Meeting
-- -- = Not a Member
A vote was taken and the motion passed unanimously.
on "Accelerating Iowa
New/ Plan
Next Alignment
Step
Communityto Include Energy
Performance in the Multiple
Listing Services (MLS) Propert
Climate Actions"
fight forward to City Council in April and
not approved. No next steps planned at
point. Will assess opportunities as
Lions or chances present themselves.
versations were in motion with local
hors about value of this action. Staff
cked with the group members about
ere this stands. CAO/CMO can offer
port as needed. Example programs
where need to be presented. More
,arch and education needed on reahor and
iebuying/selling, paired with engagement
i ICAAR. Concerns include an inability to
inefficient properties.
Equity Focus
-tits for informed buying/selling, may need
ntive assistance later on, if concentration of
rity falls within only a few neigborhoods or
.holder interest lacking. Education for all residen
renters about housing with energy efficiency and
or air quality speaks to equity concerns.
,mission and Working Group recommendations
feedback needed.
Launch aTIF-fu nd ed climate
action incentive program
aimed at reducing industrial
energy consumption "(New)
New
1.2&5.4
May
Economic Development finalizing
requirements. Pursuing initial Council approval
steps for establishing and approving Urban
Renewal Areas in summer 2020.
Advocate for State Adoption
New
1.1-1.4
May
Inquire at State about progress for rule making
Could support these efforts with help from education
of Advanced Energy Codes
process. Determine whether additional actions
and advocacy from underserved groups that directly
*(New)
necessary, including letters to elected officials.
benefit from housing improvements.
Covid-19 delayed meetings in spring 2020.
Timing may require advocacy efforts expanded
into 2021.
Advocate for Aggressive
New
1.1-1.4
May
Eligible staff voted for adoption of new lECC
Could support these efforts with help from education
Energy Code Development
codes earlier in 2020. This action also requires
and advocacy from underserved groups that directly
and Adoption*(New)
letterstoand engagementwith elected
benefit from housing improvements.
officials. Advocacy efforts expanded into
2021.
Energy Efficiency and Next 1.1-1.2,1.6 June Initiate planning and needs assessment;
nce Tips to the Public feedback from Commission working group.
Identify resources, contacts, and content.
Assess web access and source development,
method of dissemination. Support eventual
actions with strategy from communications
plan (Action 5.1- EDU)
Ath Stakeholders to New 1.1-1.4 June Initiate introductions to organizations, CAO
Green Building and staff understanding of goals and example
ation programs necessary. Meetings with City
development staff. Develop group of
stakeholders to discuss barriers and interest in
pursuing green build strategies to better
partner and build new alliances/education
opportunities. Support eventual actions with
strategy from communications plan (Action 5.1
- EDU)
mce Energy Sta n da rd s for Next 1.1 June Need updated report from NDS on current
Rehabilitation Projects activity and efforts. Explore alternatives for
rehab projects and abilityfor Cityto support
incentives or supplemented energy efficent
equipment if homeowners cannot/won't pay
the difference to upgrade. Education
components necessary- communications
strategy outcomes.
rative. Review of equity report and assistance
EHR staff essential. Commission and Working
o recommendations and feedback needed.
equity report to ensure stakeholders from
acted groups are represented, and feedback is
ed with development community, landlords, and
1ers. Commission and Working Group
�mmendations and feedback needed.
ments. Establish a mapped GIS inventory of
efficiency assessments and investments.
access to energy efficiency and other
able design elements in each project through
on and engagement.
_- a More Robust Energy
Inspection Program
Develop or Partner with Local
Stakeholders on a
Comprehensive Climate
Action Rehabilitation Program
:e Stricter Energy
into Tax Increment
Policies "(New)
Free Home Energy
smarts through Green
AmeriCorps
Blitz Events
Implement
)mmendations to Bolster
ice and Increase Ridershi
blish an Electric and Fuel
lent Vehicle Purchasing
-1.2
—1.4
—1.4
f is enrolled in energy inspections training.
itional inspector budgeted in Fy21. CAO to
twit, NDS staff to understand her staff
be looking at and for, addressing through
pliance checks.
applied for a small grant for
iborhood pilot program. Must define GIA
vement, capacity and scheduling. Explore
for external partner/s to implement a
in review of options, develop revisions to
y, introduce for Council adoption.
eholder process required. Buildings
king Group and Commission involvement
Aicy review.
Summer - Meetings with Americorps,
ging in new team. Work must be finalized
coordinated with 10ED's conceptual
msion of Americorps responsibilities. May
l to explore non-americorps team to
orm additional assessments and
therization services.
nner, Recreation, and community
anizations; Support actions with strategy
m communications plan (Action 5.1- EDLI);
I likely align this action with introduction of
nate Ambasssador program. Earlier rollout
small projects with summer activities like
ties in the Park.
New/
NextPlan Month to Work Ian
Alignment Initiate P
to be completed in summer, may be
xwhat delayed from Covid-19. Primary
ementation of recomendations to begin in
ans already in place but written policy
led. Collect EV policy models and evaluate
purchasing policyfor applicable language,
coordinating applicable data for tracking,
begin drafting policy late May.
data and CAO will assist with
formatting. Transportation Working
-ads to define and clarify their
endation before staff can pursue
assist with how
Id like to measure equity and what should be
to show progress.
roach to populations served critical. Commission
Working Group recommendations and feedback
led forfurther development.
equity can be achieved through ageographic
Lion of benefits. Education and advocacy cou
populations impacted and served by policy
corps is focused on certain groups -seniors, low
e, veterans. Not sure how they track or report
demographics. May need to get creative in how
are performed in light of Covid-19. Education
ry and equipment installation/provision
atives probably needed in short term. Establish a
2d GIS inventory of energy efficiency
ments and investments.
ss equity report to determine any areas of focus.
can assist with housing/permit data that can help
s on neighborhoods with less efficient housing
,. Outreach to underserved groups may spur
est in blitz programs or projects. Working Group
mmendations and feedback needed.
Equity Focus
endent upon study recommendations and
cted actions for implementation. Goal is to serve
lents most needing transit service. Commission
Working Group recommendations needed.
Transportation New 2.3 August Define Transporation metrics. Develop a video Review equity Report to identify groups and locations
and Outreach in fall for Climate Ambassador Program wh ich to focus attention. Somewhat reliant upon
will also be available to public. Identify how recommendations of transit study. Explore language
we will engage all residents. translations. Commission and Working Group
recommendations and feedback needed.
iTy Focus
Initiate a Methane Feasibility
NeM
3.7-3.8
May
Report presented at of May. Staff will
Consideration will be given, after final
Study
determine next steps. Final cost estimates and
recommendations, to impacts on fiscal heahh of
recommendations nearing completion in
Enterprise funds and needs to supplement with rate
summer 2020.
changes over time.
Engage the Public to Comport
Next
3.2
June
Meet with Resource Mangagement Need to
Focus is reliant upon meetings with rtaff, current In
Organic Waste
assess current level of engagment with
efforts, working Equity Working Group, equity report, Uevelapment
proposed engagment Determine how to tailor
translations services available, and outcomes from
it with equity in mind. Expand opportunities
Communications strategy.
with local businesses. Tie into carbon
sequestration project. Develop unit for climate
ambassadors that focuses on waste.
Require All Park/Public Space
New
3.5
June
Reconvene staff working on this project and
Must assess whether new requirements impact In
Rentals to Recycle and Use
finalize project details. Community education,
populations differently. Working Group Development
"Green" Event Best Practices.
possible stakeholder review.
recommendations needed.
Education Campaigns for Next 3.3 July
Meet with Resource Management to assess
Focus reliant upon meetings with staff, current efforts, Not Started
Neighborhoods to Reduce
current materials that have been developed.
working Equity Working Gorup, equity report,
Waste/Consumption at the
Coordinate with Neighboorhood Planner.
translations services available, and outcomes from
Source
Communications strategy.
New/
Plan
Next Alignment Initiate
Step
Adaptation
Develop Climate Amassador New 4.2 May
Program is in development. Modules
Development of program includes application process
AE-1
Team
developed overthe summerto be launched in
not reliant upon technology to participate. if tech is
the fall. Will coordinate with Outreach and
necessary, will purchase tablets or other device to
Equity Working Groups andCommunications
loan to ambassador participants for training activities.
staff.
Special attention paid to connection with local groups
that can recommend ambassador applicants.
Continue Implemenation of
New
4.5-4.6
May
Work agreement executed with AES in May.
Geographic distribution, education variables
the Natural Areas
Significant follow up with neighborhoods
dependent on groups impacted. Engage natural area
Management Plan
required during process. Planned
advocacygroups that can assist with public education.
concentration on intensive maintenance in
neighborhood park prairies. Education needed
about purpose, need and care for natural
areas; build community partnerships with
advocacy groups. Explore possibility of
extended community education accompanying
prairie plantings. Proposal drafted and in staff
review.
Equity Review of
Next
4.1-4.2
May
Equity Working Group will review Equity
Emphasis on highly impacted groups, targeted
Neighborhood and Population
Report and determine further action.
outreach and collaboration for development and
Outreach; Develop Outreach
Commission review of project equity review
implementation of each climate action.
Plan for Populations Highhy
tool for City and other community climate
Impacted by Climate Change
projects. Staff initiated coordination of
ma ppi ng tools/resources requested by Equity
Working Group.
AP
Flood Mitigation and
Next
4.5
June
Met with Stormwater Team. Collect and
Involving various community groups dependent on
Stormwater Management
review current volunteer lists. Assess ifwe
makeup ofexisting volunteer listing and schedules.
Programs/Projects; Buyouts
need to promote existing program. Assess
Review equity report to verify benefrts and
creek clean up volunteer process.
participation equitable.
AE-1
lPanne,with Project Green on
New
4.6
July
Schedule meetingto revisit ideas discussed
Need more information about plans from Project Not Started
a Tree Pla nti n g Pa rtn e rship;
last year. Education and promotion@ I
Green to better define how equitable dispersion or
Incentives for Private Tree
campaign development will be needed.
availability oftrees will be possible.Port- meetings
Planting
with PG, explore development/expansion of program
rollout. Commission and Working Group
recommendations and feedback appreciated.
AR-1 Street Tree Ordinance
Next
4.6
August
NDS will draft ordinance. Outreach and
New Ordinance will apply to new developments.
Not started
communication needed to educate the public,
make aware.
APP-3 Expand Public Tree Planting
Next
4.6
September
Report our proposed planting for upcoming
Review inventory maps, locate areas in need, target
In
yearfor municipal tree management. Identify
workplan outreach accordingly. Emphasis on benefits
Development
stumbling blocks ahead of new plantings.
oftree canopy in low -mod neighborhoods.
Possible small group discussion with impacted
groups - residents, landlords, City staff,
businesses or development groups. Address
negative perceptions through modifcations or
education.
Educate and Coordinate with
Next
4.3 Oaober
Outreach meetings with Johnson Co. Public
Equity reach will become more clear with agency
Not Started
Local Agencies on Health
Health, University of Iowa, etc.
coordination and partnering. Can use equity
Impacts
scale/report to identify starting agency discussions.
pill
Plan Month
e#
Workpla
uity Focus
Alignment Initiate
ep
Pilot program initiated but rebooted with a
Initial program relies heavily on voluntary
Launch a Green Business
Next
5.5
June
Program:"Climate Action at
modified structure (awards/recognition
participation. Potential forgranted fundingtied to
Work'
program). Awards program will introduce new
participation. Will need to make a greater effortto
program and seekfirst applications in summer
identifyand workwith businesses with less access to
2020. Component of recognition program will
resources. Geographic access and type of business
also be to build a network ofbusinesseswith
should also be taken into account Will map
climate intereststhat can support additional
geographic participation. Need assistancefrom
demand and resources for infrastructure and
Economic Development staff, Equity & Outreach
policy upgrades. Networking model in
Working Groups, and other econ dev and small
development with partnering business
business assistance groups.
advocacygroups.
Develop a Climate Action
Next
5.5
June
Build RFPfor consultantto develop marketing
Encourage selection offirm to developthis
In
Strategic Communications
plan; draft in review (June), plan for late
plan/materials. Application of equity priniciples will be
Development
Plan
summer release. Plan will be focused on Iowa
part of process. Feedback from Commission welcome
City attributes, alignment with current
prior to receipt of RFP responses.
initiatives, focused attention to branding,
models for promotional rollout schedules,
template materials for modification by project
or program, equity and "language" for how to
frame climate activities as broadly appealing
content.
Host Sustainability Forum and
Next
5.5
September
Climate Festival is in plann ing stages for an
Intentional outreach with underserved groups to
Events
online event to be launched i n September.
ensure access to awareness, education, and
Activities include digital and written
participation. Staff, planning committee, and CAC
storytelling, coordinated indvidual/community
Working Group to connect with local ogranuations
acivities, and expanded local partnerships.
willing to partner on activities, promotion, or hosting
Planning in May, outreach in June/July,
remote event. Efforts underway to include translated
finalizing steps in August, gear up for
festival materials in digital and print formats.
promotion late August- Festival in Sept.
Community Garden
Next
5.5
September
Working with Parks Department to see if there
Equity mapping for plot rentals exists. Need to review
Not Started
Expansion/Additions
are plans for additional community garden
2020 rentals, identify gaps in geo coverage and gaps in
areas.
possible access for certain groups. Need focused
outreach to see where needs might be to connect
unresourced individulals with plot availability in
upcoming years; will assist in identifying
needs/potential for pocket gardens in ROW.
Expand Community Climate
Next
5.4
November
Consider adding non-profit and business
Follow Equity Report recommendations to identify
Not started
categories and define what the new program
and connect with preferred applicant agencies from
will look like next year. Identify how grant
first tier needs. Community organizations geared
program ties into other City funding initiatives.
towards underserved and disadvantaged groups could
JGrants
Could move project earlier in the year to
also fall into this expansion or, the next year's funding
address direct and coordinated support for
could be introduced specifically to certain groups from
Covid-19 recovery.
equity report and an info session can be held by
invitation for these groups, like HRC and HCDC have
done.
Promote Energy Efficiency and
Performance Tips to the Public
Partner with Stakeholders to
Promote Green Building and
Rehabilitation
Encourage the Local Realtor
Community to Include Energy
Performance in the Multiple
Listing Services (M LS) Propert
Inventory
Assessments through Green
Iowa AmeriCorps
Enhance Energy Standards for
City Rehabilitation Projects
Energy Blitz Events
New/
Plan Month
Next
Alignment Initiate
Step J
1.1-1.2,1.6 June Initiate planning and needs assessment;
feedback from Commission working group.
Identify resources, contacts, and content.
Assess web access and source development,
method of dissemination. Support eventual
actions with strategy from communications
plan (Action 5.1- EDD)
1 & 1.6
iitiate introductions to organizations, CAD
tall understanding of goals and example
rograms necessary. Meetings with City
evelopment staff. Develop group of
takeholders to discuss barriers and interest in
ursuing green build strategies to better
artner and build new alliances/education
pportunities. Support eventual actions with
trategyfrom communications plan (Action 5.:
EDD)
(dings Working Group indicated initial
rversations were in motion with local
Itors about value of this action. Staff
�cked with the group members about whc
s stands. CAO/CMO can offer support as
-ded. Example programs elsewhere need
presented. More research and education
-ded on realtorand homebuying/selling,
red with engagement with ICAAR. Concer
lude an inability to sell inefficient
ging in newteam. Work must be finalized
coordinated with JCED's conceptual
nsion of Americorps responsibilities. May
1 to explore non-americorps team to
orm additional assessments and
therization services.
d updated report from NDS on current
pity and efforts. Explore alternatives for
ib projects and ability for City to support
ntives or supplemented energy efficent
ipment if homeowners cannot/won't pay
difference to upgrade. Education
iponents necessary- communications
:reation, and community organizations;
)port actions with strategy from
nmunications plan (Action 5.1- EDD); will
!ly align this action with introduction of
nate Ambasssador program. Earlier rollout
small projects with summer activities like
ties in the Park.
Equity Focus
perative. Review of equity report and assistance from
R staff essential. Commission and Working Group
ommendations and feedback needed.
city report to ensure stakeholders from impactei
are represented, and feedback is shared with
anent community, landlords, and builders.
ssion and Working Group recommendations and
:k needed.
:s for informed buying/selling, may need incenth
nce later on, if concentration of activity falls
only a few neigborhoods or stakeholder interest
. Education for all residents and renters about
g with energy efficiency and indoor air quality
to equity concerns. Commission and Working
recommendations and feedback needed.
!ncorps is focused on certain groups- seniors, low
me, veterans. Not sure how they track or report
e demographics. May need to get creative in how
is are performed in light of Covid-19. Education
,cry and equipment installation/provision
'natives probably needed in short term. Establish a
sped GIS inventory of energy efficiency assessments
investments.
d households currently meet federal income
-ments. Establish a mapped GIS inventory of
efficiency assessments and investments. Ensure
to energy effciency and other sustainable design
its in each project through education and
ss equity report to determine any areas of focus.
can assist with housing/permit data that can help
s on neighborhoods with less efficient housing
c. Outreach to underserved groups may spur
est in blitz programs or projects. Working Group
mmendations and feedback needed.
4
Launch a TIF-funded climate
New
1.2 & 5.4
May
Economic Development finalizing
action incentive program
requirements. Program examples needed to
aimed at reducing industrial
finalize development of project framework.
energy consumption *(New)
Beginnning steps for establishing and
approving Urban Renewal Areas initating in
summer 2020.
5
Develop or Partner with Local
New
1.1-1.4
July
JCED applied for a small grant for
Approach to populations served critical. Commission
Stakeholders on a
neighborhood pilot program. Must define GIA
and Working Group recommendations and feedback
Comprehensive Climate Action
involvement, capacity and scheduling. Explore
needed forfurther development.
Rehabilitation Program
RFQ for external partner/s to implement a
program.
Buildings
1
Regulations
Create a More Robust Energy
New
1.1-1.2
June
Staff is enrolled in energy inspections training.
Commission/Working Groups should assist with how
Code Inspection Program
Additional inspector budgeted in FY21. CAD to
they would like to measure equity and what should be
*(New)
meet with NDS staff to understand what staff
reported to show progress.
will be looking at and for, addressing through
compliance checks.
2
Incorporate Stricter Energy
New
1.3 — 1.4
Aug
Begin review of options, develop revisions to
Greater equity can be achieved through a geographic
Standards into Tax Increment
policy, introduce for Council adoption.
distribution of benefits. Education and advocacy could
Financing Policies *(New)
Stakeholder process required. Buildings
benefit populations impacted and served by policy
Working Group and Commission involvement
implementation.
in policy review.
City
1
Policy
Advocate for State Adoption of
New
1.1— 1.4
May
Inquire at State about progress for rule making
Could support these efforts with help from education
Advanced Energy Codes *(New)
process. Determine whether additional actions
and advocacy from underserved groups that directly
necessary, including letters to elected officials.
benefit from housing improvements.
Covid-19 delayed meetings in spring 2020.
Timing may require advocacy efforts expanded
into 2021.
2
Advocate for Aggressive New
May
Eligible staff voted for adoption of new IECC
Could support these efforts with help from education
11.1-1.4
Energy Code Development and
codes earlier in 2020. This action requires
and advocacy from underserved groups that directly
Adoption *(New)
letters to and engagement with elected
benefit from housing improvements.
officials. Will proceed but timing may require
Public
Projects
advocacy efforts expanded into 2021.
April
Brought forward to City Council in April and
1 Solar Partnership with
New
1.5
MidAmerican
was not approved. No next steps planned at
this point. Will assess opportunities as
locations or chances present themselves.
New/
Plan Month to
Next Workplan Equity Focus
Alignment Initiate16
Step
Education
.Transportation:
1 Significant Transportation New
2.3
August
De fine Transporation metrics. Develop a video
Review equity Report to identify groupsand locations to
Education and Outreach
in fall for Climate Ambassador Program which
focus attention. Somewhat reliant upon
Campaigns
will also be available to public. Identify how we
recommendations of transit study. Explore language
will engage all residents.
translations. Commission and Working Group
recommendations and feedback needed.
Transportation:
1
Policy
Establish an Electric and Fuel-
New 2.2
May
Actions already in place but written policy
Efficient Vehicle Purchasing
needed. Collect EV policy models and evaluate
Policy
City purchasing policy for applicable language,
staff coordinating applicable data for tracking,
will begin drafting policy late May.
2
Track Adherence to City Idling
May
AVL equipment provides idling data. Staff will
Policy
compile data and CAD will assist with reporting
T
formatting. Transportation Working Group
needs to define and clarify their
recommendation before staff can pursue
exploration of technology.
Public Projects
1 Complete the Transit Study
New
2.1
Ongoing
Due to be completed in summer, may be
Dependent upon study recommendations and selected
and Implement
somewhat delayed from Covid-19. Primary
actions for implementation. Goal is to serve residents
Recommendations to Bolster
implementation of recomendationsto begin in
most needing transit service. Commission and Working
Service and Increase Ridership
2021.
Group recommendations needed.
New/
%an
on
Next
Alrgnme
Initi
Education
Step
.Waste:
1 Engage the Public to Compost
Next
3.2
June
Meet with Resource Mangagement. Need to
Focus is reliant upon meetings with staff, current efforts,
Organic Waste
assess current level of engagment with
working Equity Working Group, equity report,
proposed engagment. Determine how to tailor
translations services available, and outcomes from
it with equity in mind. Expand opportunities
Communications strategy.
with local businesses. Tie into carbon
sequestration project. Develop unit for climate
ambassadors that focuses on waste.
2 Education Campaigns for
Next
3.3
July
Meet with Resource Management to assess
Focus reliant upon meetings with staff, current efforts,
Neighborhoods to Reduce
current materials that have been developed.
working Equity Working Gorup, equity report,
Waste/Consumption at the
Coordinate with Neighboorhood Planner.
translations services available, and outcomes from
Source
Communications strategy.
Waste: City Policy
1 Require All Park/Public Space
lNew
13.5
June
Reconvene staff working on this project and
New requirements may impact equity groups. Working
Rentals to Recycle and Use
finalize project details. Community education,
Group recommendations needed.
"Green" Event Best Practices.
L_Lpossible
stakeholder review.
Waste: Projects
e a Methane Feasibility
determine next steps.
JStudy.
% NI
WterminnAW Equity Focus A=J
Ne#
StetAlignment Initiate1Develop
Climate Amassador
New
4.2
May
Program is in development. Modules
Development of program includes application process
Team
developed over the summerto be launched in
not reliant upon technology to participate. If tech is
the fall. Will coordinate with Outreach and
necessary, will purchase tablets or other device to loan
Equity Working Groups and Communications
to ambassador participants for training activities. Special
staff.
attention paid to connection with local groups that can
recommend ambassador applicants.
2
Educate and Coordinate with
Next
4.3 October
Outreach meetings with Johnson Co. Public
Equity reach will become more clear with agency
Local Agencies on Health
Health, University of Iowa, etc.
coordination and partnering. Can use equity
Impacts
scale/report to identify starting agency discussions.
1
Partner with Project Green on
New
4.6
July
Schedule meeting to revisit ideas discussed last
Need more information about plans from Project Green
a Tree Planting Partnership;
year. Education and promotional campaign
to better define how equitable dispersion or availability
Incentives for Private Tree
development will be needed.
of trees will be possible. Post- meetings with PG, explore
Planting
development/expansion of program rollout.
Commission and Working Group recommendations and
feedback appreciated.
1
Street Tree Ordinance
Next
4.6
August
will draft ordinance. Outreach and
New Ordinance will apply to new developments.
INDS
communication needed to educate the public,
make aware.
1'
Flood Mitigation and
Next
4.5
June
Met with StonnwaterTeam. Collect and review
Involving various community groups dependent on
Stormwater Management
current volunteer lists. Assess if we need to
makeup of existing volunteer listing and schedules.
Programs/Projects; Buyouts
promote existing program. Assess creek clean
Review equity report to verify benefits and participation
up volunteer process.
equitable.
2
Continue Implemenation of
New 4.5-4.6
May
Work agreement executed with AES in May.
Geographic distribution, education variables dependent
the Natural Areas
Significant followup with neighborhoods
on groups impacted. Engage natural area advocacy
Management Plan
required during process. Planned
groups that can assist with public education.
concentration on intensive maintenance in
neighborhood park prairies. Education needed
about purpose, need and care for natural
areas; build community partnerships with
advocacy groups. Explore possibility of
extended community education accompanying
prairie plantings. Proposal drafted and in staff
review.
3
Expand Public Tree Planting
Next
4.6
September
Report our proposed planting for upcoming
Review inventory maps, locate areas in need, target
year for municipal tree management. Identify
workplan outreach accordingly. Emphasis on benefits of
stumbling blocks ahead of new plantings.
tree canopy in low -mod neighborhoods.
Possible small group discussion with impacted
groups - residents, landlords, City staff,
businesses or development groups. Address
negative perceptions through modifcations or
education.
4
Equity Review of Next 4.1-4.2 May Equity Working Group will review Equity Emphasis on highly impacted groups, targeted outreach
Neighborhood and Population Report and determine further action. and collaboration for development and implementation
Outreach; Develop Outreach Commission review of project equity review of each climate action.
Plan for Populations Highlty tool for City and other community climate
Impacted by Climate Change projects.
Action
New/
Next plan Month to Workolan Equity Focus
Step Alignment Initiate
Sustainable Lifestyle: Education
1
Host Sustainability Forum and
Next
5.5
September
Climate Festival is in planning stages for an
Intentional outreach with underserved groups to ensure
Events
online event to be launched in September.
access to awareness, education, and participation. Staff,
Activities include digital and written
planning committee, and CACWorking Group to
storytelling, coordinated indvidual/community
connect with local ogranizations willing to partner on
acivities, and expanded local partnerships.
activities, promotion, or hosting remote event. Efforts
Planning in May, outreach in June/July,
underway to include translated festival materials in
finalizing steps in August, gear up for
digital and print formats.
promotion late August- Festival in Sept.
2
Launch a Green Business
Next
5.5 June
Pilot program initiated but reboot with a
Initial program relies heavily on voluntary participation.
Program:"Climate Action at
modified structure (award s/recognition
Potential for granted funding tied to participation. Will
Work"
program) in the works. Three businesses with
need to make a greater effort to identify and work with
current interest in energy data tracking. This
businesses with less access to resources. Geographic
elevated work load requires staff to work
access and type of business should also be taken into
closely with businesses to enter energy
account. Will map geographic participation. Need
information into Portfolio Manager. Will
assistance from Economic Development staff, Equity &
eventually use feedback from businesses to
Outreach Working Groups, and other econ dev and
develop framework for future benchmarking
small business assistance groups.
program and business incentives.
Buildings:
1
Incentives
Expand Community Climate
Next
5.4
November
Consider adding non-profit and business
Follow Equity Report recommendations to identify and
Grants
categories and define what the new program
connect with preferred applicant agencies from first tier
will look like next year. Identify how grant
needs. Community organizations geared towards
program ties into other City funding initiatives.
underserved and disadvantaged groups could also fall
Could move project earlier in the year to
into this expansion or, the next year's funding could be
address direct and coorinated support for
introduced specifically to certain groups from equity
Covid-19 recovery.
report and an info session can be held by invitation for
these groups, like H RC and HCDC have done.
Public
1
Projects
Community Garden
Next
5.5
September
Working with Parks Department to see if there
Equity mapping for plot rentals exists. Need to review
Expansion/Additions
are plans for additional community garden
2020 rentals, identify gaps in geo coverage and gaps in
areas.
possible access for certain groups. Need focused
outreach to see where needs might be to connect
unresourced individulals with plot availability in
upcoming years; will assist in identifying needs/potential
for pocket gardens in ROW.
2
Develop a Climate Action
Next
5.5
June
Build RFP for consultant to develop marketing
Encourage selection of firth to develop this
Strategic Communications Plan
plan; CMO drafting, will review with
plan/materials. Application of equity priniciples will be
Communications and Legal. Plan will be
part of process. Feedback from Commission welcome
focused on Iowa City attributes, alignment with
prior to release of RFP.
current initiatives, focused attention to
branding, models for promotional rollout
schedules, template materials for modification
by project or program, equity and "language"
for how to frame climate activities as broadly
appealing content.
Economic Development and Sustainability working together
Summary of comments from 6-2-2020 Climate Action Commission meeting
Prepared by Wendy Ford, Economic Development Coordinator
The Economic Development and Sustainability Divisions are working together on three programs to raise
awareness and incentivize changes that help reduce carbon emissions in the business community.
The first is a Green Business Recognition Program. We have spent months in research mode, worked
with a University problems class to come up with a survey to determine green business, and started a
program of participation in Portfolio Manager— all with limited success due to the staff time required to
be timely and effective.
We are now pivoting and rethinking the Green Business Recognition program with two or three parts.
We will design a less burdensome program; one that is focused on businesses self -reporting their efforts
at improving sustainability, sharing information in a virtual meeting settings and webinars.
Climate Action Awards (year 1 & 2) — for Climate Festival, week of Sept. 19
• Goal: raise awareness/get publicity out about businesses investments in sustainability
• Call for Entries— solicit stories in application form from business community on recent
Sustainability Projects (over last 2 years)
o Create web -based application
o Solicit submissions
• Promote through Chamber, ICAD, City platforms
o Call together committee to evaluate applications
• Climate Action Commission member, Chamber staff member/s, ICAD staff
member, City staff members
o Staff to make personal visits to the short list of probable awardees to see in person,
verify work done
o Award categories from Climate Action Plan
Buildings
Transportation
• Waste
• Adaptation
Sustainable Lifestyle
o Jack to film video and tell the story of each award category winner for Festival showing
o Cash prizes for winners
o Bonus prize for getting on Portfolio Manager uploading and tracking
Will research incentive for businesses with < 5,000 SF (due to Portfolio manager
not having category for smaller SF businesses)
Learn from Local Contractors (through personal visits)
• Goal: gain understanding of local contractors that can do the work and the range of projects
possible with local contractors
o Include key City staff, key Chamber staff.
• Visit Local Contractors individually, for understanding of their scope, expertise and hear
examples of their work and how it has impacted those businesses
o Kelly Heating and AC (Start with this Trade Ally — only IC member?)
o Muller plumbing and Heating
o RMB Co., Inc.
o Harris Boyz HVAC
o Davis Heating and Air
o Brandt Heating and Air Conditioning
o Others...?
• Goal - learn what improvements are most cost effective for the investment necessary
o Small business improvements
o Industry or big business improvements
• Learn whether they have evaluative tools to guide larger investments in energy efficiency or if
they simply plug and play new equipment.
• This can help guide development of Tax Abatement and URTE programs
Host (or CoHost with Chamber) Quarterly Sustainability Webinars/Zoom panels with Q&A
• Goal: Get Energy Efficiency and Sustainability top of mind in business community
• Select panel of Local contractors (from the ones visited above) OR from the businesses they
have served to share stories of their improvements
• Needs a catchy name, good marketing
• Start in Fall 2020 and do 3 over cold months. October, January and April?
o Can serve as promotional time for local contractors
o Can rally support among businesses for energy savings they have made through this
work
o Promote URTE (Urban Revitalization Tax Exemption program)
o Promote the 3 Industrial Areas Energy Efficiency through TIF financing
o Promote Downtown and Riverfront Crossing Energy Efficiency through TIF financing
The second program is TIF Funded Industrial Green Incentives
Goal: To assist businesses in reducing carbon emissions and to serve as economic stimulus in the wake
of covid.
This program will be funded by tax increment available in the 3 Industrial Urban Renewal Areas: Scott 6,
Heinz Road and Sycamore & First Avenue.
TIF is a source of economic development funding available to cities through the formation of an Urban
Renewal Area. New property values created by investment generate new property taxes paid by
property owners. The tax increment is the difference between the before value and the after value and
it may be used within the urban renewal area from which it is generated. It can be rebated back to the
Property owner who created the increment or designated for projects within the district with a public
purpose, or it can simply flow to the City's general fund. In some cases, a sizeable increment exists due
to appreciation and investment in the area and the previous lack of need to use the increment for
investment. The table below shows the potential tax increment available in each of the three areas.
Name cf Urban Renewal Area
Expiration date cf URA
TIF potential
Scott 6
FY23
$2,700,000
Heinz Road
FY25
$2,500,000
Sycamore and First Ave.
FY22
$425,000
To enable the use of the increment for Industrial Incentives, each area will be amended to include
Energy Efficiency projects as an eligible use for TIF; this should begin in June. The amendment requires a
Resolution of Necessity by City Council and a Public Hearing to adopt the amendments.
Staff is still determining the parameters for the program and the qualifications for eligibility. We will be
considering minimum project size (likely above $100,000), grant match percentage, and project types
allowable (electrification, renewable energy generation, etc.). We will also be working with local and
other contractors to determine optimal projects to fund.
We plan to visit with each of the industrial companies individually to explain the goals of the program
and how they could save money while helping reduce carbon emissions.
We also aim to replicate this model in the Downtown and Riverfront Crossings Urban Renewal Areas.
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Proposed Highway Commercial Urban Revitalization Tax Exemption Area
Urban Revitalization Tax Exemption (URTE) is an economic development incentive tool that
grants a property tax exemption on the new value created by improvements to existing or new
buildings on qualifying properties within the URTE area. Neither the value of the land nor the
original value of the building is eligible, and only improvements generating at least a 15% increase
in building value are eligible. Council approves the Tax Exemption Plan and the applications, but
it is a "by right' benefit for which any qualifying property may apply.
The URTE areas included in this plan are generally older commercial areas with local, small
businesses that have not had access to economic development incentives in the past and
generally do not attract the kinds of projects that would be appropriate for tax increment financing.
There are a handful of vacant lots in these areas that could also qualify with new construction.
Staff is trying to tie energy efficiency improvements to this program. The investment required
for eligibility (a 15% increase in taxable value) may be difficult to achieve for the small businesses
typical of this area. This work is not completed yet and is complicated by the restrictions of
state law that require a single standard for all eligible properties.
By state law, qualifying properties may be residential or commercial, however, the
proposed Highway Commercial URTE is only for commercially -classed properties. In the case
of a multi -residential property, where a portion is commercial, only the commercial portion of
the property would be eligible.
The Highway Commercial URTE would be in effect for ten (10) years from the date of adoption.
There are differing tax exemption schedules cities may adopt (all with approximately the same
net present value) We are proposing a 100% exemption on the taxes created by the new value
for three (3) years, provided the new value is at least 115% of the old value. The value of land is
not included in the calculation.
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