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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda - Climate Action Plan Task Force - 05/12/2022 Climate Action Plan Task Force 180 Market Street South Burlington, VT 05403 (802) 846-4106 www.sbvt.gov Meeting Thursday, May 12, 2022 City Hall, 180 Market Street, Room 301 and Online 7:00 pm This meeting will be held both in person and digitally via Zoom. Participation Options: In person: South Burlington City Hall Room 301, 180 Market Street Assisted Listening Service Available; reach out to staff before meeting begins Interactive Online (audio & video): https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81332056017 Telephone (audio only): (929) 205 6099, Meeting ID: 813 3205 6017 AGENDA: 1. Instructions on existing building in case of emergency and review of technology options (7:00 pm) 2. Agenda: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items (7:02 pm) 3. Open to the public for items not related to the agenda (7:05 pm) 4. *Consider and possible action on recommendation to City Council regarding renewable energy heating system standards 5. *Continue review of pathways and actions by sector (7:10 pm) a. Review of remaining sectors: renewable energy, government operations, non-energy (waste), adaptation & resilience, agriculture & food systems 6. *Overview and feedback on draft summer 2022 community outreach plan 7. *Minutes: March 10, March 30, April 14, April 27, 2022 (8:55 pm) 8. Other Business (8:59 pm) 9. Adjourn (9:00 pm) *Item has attachments Respectfully submitted, Paul Conner, AICP, Paul Conner, AICP Director of Planning & Zoning Chief Sustainability Officer 180 Market Street South Burlington, VT 05403 tel 802.846.4106 fax 802.846.4101 www.sb vt.gov MEMORANDUM TO: South Burlington Climate Action Plan Task Force FROM: Paul Conner, Director of Planning & Zoning & Chief Sustainability Officer SUBJECT: May 12, 2022 Task Force Meeting Cover memo Hi folks. Enclosed is this week’s packet. 1. Instructions on existing building in case of emergency and review of technology options (7:00 pm) 2. Agenda: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items (7:02 pm) 3. Open to the public for items not related to the agenda (7:05 pm) 4. Consider and possible action on recommendation to City Council regarding renewable energy heating system standards At the last meeting, a small working group offered to work on a proposal to City Council that would recommend the City advance a renewable / clean heat standard. The working group will present their ideas/updates at the meeting. 5. Continue review of pathways and actions by sector (7:10 pm) a. Review of remaining sectors: renewable energy, government operations, non-energy (waste), adaptation & resilience, agriculture & food systems See the enclosed updated worksheet. At the April 27th meeting, the Task Force left off at Action N.1.1. A reminder that while these are all important subject areas, the bulk of the energy / ghg emissions in South Burlington are in the Buildings/Thermal and Transportation/Land Use Sectors. Therefore when towards the end of this work you propose any areas of priority, we recommend this be kept this in mind. 6. Overview and feedback on draft summer 2022 community outreach plan Staff has been working this spring on a coordinated outreach plan for major policy matters of the City. There are three big projects moving forward this summer: completion of the Climate Action Plan, beginning work on the City’s 2024 Comprehensive Plan, and deciding how to make use of the City’s American Recue Plan Act (ARPA) allocation. Enclosed please find a chart outlining the coordinated outreach plan. The plan strives to reach a broad cross- section of the community while also being rooted in our overall capacity. We would welcome Task Force members participating and serving as listeners at the events that are in person / over zoom. Dates for these events are being finalized in coordination with the City Manager’s Office and Recreation and Parks Dept in the coming days. We’re sharing this same outline with the Planning Commission. Feedback is welcome! We’re also welcome any feedback individuals may have on how to best package the CAP-specific work, perhaps not as a Task Force discussion but from your experience and knowledge of the City. 2 7. Minutes: March 10, March 30, April 14, April 27, 2022 (8:55 pm) Enclosed are these several sets of minutes for review and approval. A reminder that meeting recordings are also posted to the City’s YouTube channel. 8. Other Business (8:59 pm) Project schedule: The next Task Force meeting will be on June 9, 2022. Between now and then, CCRPC and City Staff will begin the project outreach, tying together the Science-Based Targets, and filling in the other columns associated with the various actions (feasibility, authority, scale, equity, and where possible, ghg implications). As we move into the summer, the Task Force will be invited work on prioritizing actions within the overall list, for year 1 as well as more broadly for the first few years. 9. Adjourn (9:00 pm) 3 Draft Outreach Components Type Timeframe Purposes Target Audiences Comprehensive Plan ARPA Climate Action Plan Online Poll May-June 2022 -Initial contact on various topics -Feedback on direct questions -Preferences among options -Generate new ideas -Use "off-ramps" for deeper dives -City newsletters -Front Porch Forum -Other Paper -Partner organizations 1. Feedback on Values & Goals 2. Intro to key topics 3. New goals/Values 1. Feedback on "buckets" 2. Feedback on relative priorities 3. New ideas 1. Awareness of Goals & Need 2. Feedback on Targets 3. Feedback on actions 4. New actions Committee & Organization Initial Input June-July 2022 -Solicit Committees' priorities -Hear from the community at the start -Welcome outside groups & individuals to share preliminary thoughts -City Committees -Organizations operating in South Burlington 1. Hear from organizations at the start 1. Most have already weighed in 1. Opportunity to inform Summer In-Person events (~6) June-July 2022 -Direct person-to-person ideas -New ideas through discourse -Foster "champions" for action -Event attendees -City user groups 1. Feedback on Values & Goals 2. Intro to key topics 3. City Priorities 1. How could ARPA funds benefit your area 1. Awareness of Goals & Need 2. Feedback on Targets 3. Feedback on actions 4. New actions Formal Survey Aug or Nov 2022 -Gather representative sampling of population on key issues Winter In-person events [~3-4] Winter 2023 -Direct person-to-person ideas -New ideas through discourse -Foster "champions" for action -Event attendees -City user groups 1. Feedback on Targets, Key Subject Areas, Policy Priorities n/a 1. Possible input on implementation plans Planning Commission Listening Sessions Spring-Summer 2023 -Direct Feedback on drafts -Awareness of proposed policy -Opportunity to speak directly with policy-makers -General Community -Engaged Residents & users -Community Groups 1. Feedback on Drafts n/a 1. Feedback on drafts Formal Public Hearings Fall 2023 -Hear feedback before adopting City policy -General Community 1. Formal input on draft n/a n/a City Website & Feedback Form Throughout -Repository of information -Highly-engaged community members 1. Information library 1. Information library 1. Information library City Newsletter Semi-monthly -Build awareness via continual content -Build eventual voter understanding -City newsletter subscribers 1. Announce events 2. Brief stories; link to website 1. Announce events 2. Brief stories; link to website 1. Announce events 2. Brief stories; link to website Other Sectors CAPTF Draft 2022-05-05 Sector Pathway 2030 Science Based Target Monitoring Metric Action Category ID DRAFT Action Leaders Notes Edits/Comments Renewable Energy R.1: Increase renewable energy generation in the City By 2030, Increase renewable energy by x% (ECOS Plan Target indicates an additional 71,853 to 129, 616 MWH is needed by 2050 to advance the State's 90X2050 goal, As of 2018, renewable energy generation in the City was % increase in Megawatt Hours Policy R.1.1 Adopt a policy to require qualifying new buildings to be built with solar net metered systems/paired with energy storage to increase resiliency/reliability of electrical system during outages and decrease fossil fuel usage during peak periods. City Council, City Manager, P&Z Renewable Energy R.1: Increase renewable energy generation in the City % increase in Megawatt Hours Policy R.1.2 Update the Comprehensive Plan according to the Dept. of Public Service Energy Planning Standards for renewable energy standards (Act 174). P&Z, PC Placeholder so we don't forget this Renewable Energy R.1: Increase renewable energy generation in the City By 2030, Increase renewable energy by x% (ECOS Plan Target indicates an additional 71,853 to 129, 616 MWH is % increase in Megawatt Hours Policy R.1.3 Identify existing commercial roofs, parking areas and other areas that do not currently provide environmental services where solar arrays should be prioritized. P&Z, PC (Andrew) CAPTF accepted this edit on 4/27 Ann: What is meant by environmental services? Renewable Energy R.1: Increase renewable energy generation in the City By 2030, Increase renewable energy by x% (ECOS Plan Target indicates an additional 71,853 to 129, 616 MWH is % increase in Megawatt Hours Strategic Investment R.1.4 Create a program to incentivize residents and businesses to install solar arrays on their roofs, over parking lots, or as appropriate as free-standing structures City Council, City Manager, P&Z Natural Areas N.1: Ensure land development will be adaptive and resilient to climate change impacts Preservation of priority habitat blocks and increase in green infrastructure and soil health Acres of conserved land and green infrastructure added Policy N.1.1 Protect identified habitat blocks critical for resilient ecosystems and carbon storage. City Council, City Manager, P&Z, PC Habitat Blocks and Connectors are regulatated in 2022 LDRs. Add specifically to Comp Plan. Other actions? South Burlington’s remaining meadows, forests, grasslands, farmlands and wetlands should be protected from further development barring a compelling economic, legal, environmental or other consideration. (Andrew) CCRPC Comment - Suggest alignment with recently passed land development N.1.2 Decrease pressure to build on undeveloped land, encourage conversion of existing single family homes to multi-family homes and renovations to add studios or one-bedroom apartments to existing homes. Prioritize use of this new housing for long-term rentals over short-term rentals. Andrew's poposed addition Are we including Organic Fertilizers and soil improvement materials such as potash, lime, acidifiers etc.? (Michael Mittag) N.1.3 Adopt goal to replace 30% of mowed turf with native plant species by 2030. Start a campaign to encourage “climate friendly lawns” whereby residents are encouraged to convert portions with native perennials and trees. (Partner with Grow Wild Burlington and other organizations as appropriate) Andrew's proposed addition Natural Areas N.1: Ensure land development will be adaptive and resilient to climate change impacts Preservation of priority habitat blocks and increase in green infrastructure and soil health Acres of conserved land and green infrastructure added Promotion N.1.4 Increase Soil Health: Promote composting and use of compost to restore soil fertility, microbial activity, and moisture-holding capacity. Promote a voluntary ban on pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. City Council, City Manager, Natural Resources Committee Encourage and/or provide financial incentives to owners of NRP lands to re-forest their land. (Michael Mittag) Natural Areas N.1: Ensure land development will be adaptive and resilient to climate change impacts Preservation of priority habitat blocks and increase in green infrastructure and soil health Acres of conserved land and green infrastructure added Promotion N.1.5 Retain and Increase Tree Canopy: Enlist City partnerships (community groups) to provide education and outreach to provide technical assistance and opportunities to increase native tree canopy coverage on private property. Natural Resources and Conservation CommitteeNatural Areas N.1: Ensure land development will be adaptive and resilient to climate Preservation of priority habitat blocks and increase in green infrastructure and soil health Acres of conserved land and green infrastructure Strategic Investment N.1.6 Retain and Increase Tree Canopy: Develop a program that supports the planting of native trees on private property, commit funding to establish the program and support ongoing implementation. City Council, City Manager, Natural Resources CommitteeNatural Areas N.1: Ensure land development will be adaptive and resilient to climate change impacts Preservation of priority habitat blocks and increase in green infrastructure and soil health Acres of conserved land and green infrastructure added Strategic Investment N.1.67 Pursue easements for trails and/or ecosystem corridors through private spaces to connect with public open space. City Council, City Manager, Natural Resources Committee City of South Burlington Other Sectors CAPTF Draft 2022-05-05 Non-Energy Sector (Waste) NE.1: Reduce solid waste By 2030, X% decrease in solid waste Monitor solid waste tonnage Policy NE.1.1 As a member of the Chittenden Solid Waste District, reduce municipal and construction waste City Council, City Manager, P&Z Govt Operations GO.1: Develop green practices in City Operations By 2030, all City operations following green practices Green practices enacted Policy GO.1.1 Consider a green investment policy City Council, City Manager, Energy Coordinator, PW GO.1: Develop green practices in City Operations By 2030, all City operations following green practices Green practices enacted Policy GO.1.2 Consider a green purchasing policy City Council, City Manager, Energy Coordinator, Govt Operations GO.1: Develop green practices in City Operations By 2030, all City operations following green practices Green practices enacted Policy GO.1.3 Consider a green operations policy (includes things like no idleing, raise the blade, composting, etc.) City Council, City Manager, Energy Coordinator, Govt Operations GO.1: Develop green practices in City Operations By 2030, all City operations following green practices Green practices enacted Policy GO.1.4 Include Climate resiliency in preparation of City Natural Areas management plans City Council, City Manager, P&Z Govt Operations GO.2: Electrify City equipment and facilities or increase efficiency By 2030, all City equipment and facilities electrified or substantially more efficient Fossil fuel use data, and actions that have advanced efficiency Strategic Investment GO.2.1 Install solar and micro hydro turbine at wastewater treatment plant Energy Coordinator, PW Already planned Govt Operations GO.2: Electrify City equipment and facilities or increase efficiency By 2030, all City equipment and facilities electrified or substantially more efficient Fossil fuel use data, and actions that have advanced Strategic Investment GO.2.2 Include operational effieiency among top priorities for periodic upgrades to wastewater treatment facilities alongside achieving or exceeding environmental thresholds Energy Coordinator, PW Govt Operations GO.2: Electrify City equipment and facilities or increase efficiency By 2030, all City equipment and facilities electrified or substantially more efficient Fossil fuel use data, and actions that have advanced efficiency Strategic Investment GO.2.3 Determine strategy and budget for municipal vehicles and equipment to electrify or become zero emission. Consider having VTCCC conduct a free fleet analysis and conduct an annual accounting of fossil fuel data for municipal fleet vehicles . Consider joint investment on shared EV assets with other towns to reduce capital burden. Publicize results as an example of clean investment potential, City to look at options for financing as well as grants to speed adoption From Srini & Donna [combined by CCRPC] - add the above text City Council, City Manager, PW Formerly 7 from Transportation Completely phase out use of gas- powered mowers, leaf-blowers and other landscaping equipment as it ages and replace with electric technology. Aim for 50% reduction by [xx] year and complete elimination of gas-powered equipment by [yy] year. (andrew) See target in red. Govt Operations GO.2: Electrify City equipment and facilities or increase efficiency By 2030, all City equipment and facilities electrified or substantially more efficient Fossil fuel use data, and actions that have advanced Strategic Investment GO.2.4 Budget for annual EV charging equipment installments at various City departments. During renovation or construction, make sites EV-ready. City Council, City Manager, PW Formerly 9 from Transportation Govt Operations GO.2: Electrify City equipment and facilities or increase efficiency By 2030, all City equipment and facilities electrified or substantially more efficient Fossil fuel use data, and actions that have advanced efficiency Strategic Investment GO.2.5 Replace gas-powered small engine equipment equipment with electric models. City Manager, PW Curtail or ban the sale of new two stroke and four stroke gas powered small engine equipment including lawn mowers, leaf blowers, weed whackers and the like. Work with Efficiency Vermont to provide incentives for the purchase of Govt Operations GO.2: Electrify City equipment and facilities or increase By 2030, all City equipment and facilities electrified or substantially more efficient Fossil fuel use data, and actions that Strategic Investment GO.2.6 Complete replacement of all streetlights with energy efficient bulbs and fixtures Energy Coordinator, PW Govt Operations GO.2: Electrify City equipment and facilities or increase efficiency By 2030, all City equipment and facilities electrified or substantially more efficient Fossil fuel use data, and actions that have advanced Strategic Investment GO.2.7 Develop a plan to electrify and increase the energy efficiency of all municipal buildings. Utilize grants and the City's revolving loan fund for upgrades. City Manager/City Council, Energy Govt Operations GO.2: Electrify City equipment and facilities or increase By 2030, all City equipment and facilities electrified or substantially more efficient Fossil fuel use data, and actions that Strategic Investment GO.2.8 Increase renewable energy production and battery storage portfolio of municipal buildings. City Council, City Manager, Energy Coordinator, Govt Operations GO.2: Electrify City equipment and facilities or increase By 2030, all City equipment and facilities electrified or substantially more efficient Fossil fuel use data, and actions that Promotion GO.2.9 Instill climate action and resliency into all City-sponsored activites, events, and programs City Manager Govt Operations GO.3: Reduce City Employee VMT By 2030, X% reduction in employee Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) % reduction in employee VMT Policy GO.3.1 Develop a program to support employee transit, walking and bike, ride sharing, and work-from home. Consider becoming a member of CATMA. City Council, City Manager Formerly 13 from Transportation Other Sectors CAPTF Draft 2022-05-05 Adaptation and Resilience AR.1: Follow Recommendations in the All Hazard Mitigation Plan when complete Reduce risks from: Extreme Heat; Extreme Precipitation; High Winds; Drought (in order of vulnerability based on tool below) Number of issues in Hazard Mitigation Plan Addressed Policy AR.1.1 Continue to protect river corridors and limit development in vulnerable areas to decrease damage from potential flooding events. City Council, City Manager, P&Z, PC Work is done, just need to continue Add better protection of River Corridors by increasing buffers around them and by prohibiting human encroachment. Both measures will improve resiliency and mitigate damage from flood events. Adaptation and Resilience https://www.ccrpcvt .org/our- work/emergency- management/hazard- mitigation-plan https://crt-climate- explorer.nemac.org/ Number of issues in Hazard Mitigation Plan Addressed Policy AR.1.2 Continue to implement green infrastructure principles into the built environment to better absorb additional annual rainfall, minimize potential flooding events, and prepare for extreme heat and high winds. City Council, City Manager, PW Currently doing this Adaptation and Resilience AR.1: Follow Recommendations in the All Hazard Mitigation Plan Reduce risks from: Extreme Heat; Extreme Precipitation; High Winds; Drought (in order of vulnerability based on tool Number of issues in Hazard Mitigation Plan Addressed Policy AR.1.3 Continue to protect wetlands City Council, City Manager, P&Z, PC Currently doing this Increase wetland buffers. This will improve resiliency and enhance wetlands flood absorption capacity. (Michael Mittag)Adaptation and Resilience AR.1: Follow Recommendations in the All Hazard Mitigation Plan Reduce risks from: Extreme Heat; Extreme Precipitation; High Winds; Drought (in order of vulnerability based on tool Number of issues in Hazard Mitigation Plan Addressed Policy AR.1.4 Develop inhanced flood response plans among emergency management personnel, public works, and regional/state partners. City Council, City Manager, Emergency Response, PW Adaptation and Resilience AR.1: Follow Recommendations in the All Hazard Reduce risks from: Extreme Heat; Extreme Precipitation; High Winds; Drought (in order Number of issues in Hazard Mitigation Plan Policy AR.1.5 Continue to pursue resilient stormwater infrastructure. Assess culverts for geomorphic capacity and aquatic organism passage. PW Stormwater Dept. to review this action Adaptation and Resilience AR.1: Follow Recommendations in the All Hazard Mitigation Plan Reduce risks from: Extreme Heat; Extreme Precipitation; High Winds; Drought (in order of vulnerability based on tool Number of issues in Hazard Mitigation Plan Addressed Promotion AR.1.6 Encourage weather-based irrigation controllers, smart meters or other water- saving land-scaping technologies. Encourage use of native, salt and drought tolerant grasses, plants, and trees City Council, City Manager, Natural Resources Committee, Encourage rain gardens. (Michael Mittag) Adaptation and Resilience AR.1: Follow Recommendations in the All Hazard Reduce risks from: Extreme Heat; Extreme Precipitation; High Winds; Drought (in order Number of issues in Hazard Mitigation Plan Promotion AR.1.7 Prepare the public with information on what to do and where to go in extreme heat weather events. City Manager, Communicati onsAdaptation and Resilience AR.1: Follow Recommendations in the All Hazard Mitigation Plan Reduce risks from: Extreme Heat; Extreme Precipitation; High Winds; Drought (in order of vulnerability based on tool Number of issues in Hazard Mitigation Plan Addressed Promotion AR.1.8 Promote cool roofs and pavement. City Council, City Manager, P&Z, PC Adaptation and Resilience AR.1: Follow Recommendations in the All Hazard Mitigation Plan when complete Reduce risks from: Extreme Heat; Extreme Precipitation; High Winds; Drought (in order of vulnerability based on tool below) Number of issues in Hazard Mitigation Plan Addressed Strategic Investment AR.1.9 Invest in green public spaces to make City safer amid worsening heat waves and intensified flooding while also pulling carbon out of the air. Prioritize projects in neighborhoods with disproportionately low access. Increase opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, exercise, etc. in public spaces. City Council, City Manager, Recreation Agriculture/ Food Systems AF.1: Ensure sustainability of local food and farm systems while decreasing emissions Target TBD Number of community gardens and increased access to locally grown foods Policy AF.1.1 Launch a Nature Based Solutions Program that includes food systems, farms, and expanded community gardens and urban farming in neighborhoods with disproportionately low access. Natural Resources and Conservation Committee City should require the use of "regenerative farming" and "no till" practices in city managed Community Gardens. (Michael Mittag) Agriculture/ Food Systems AF.1: Ensure sustainability of local food and farm systems while decreasing emissions Target TBD TBD Promotion AF.1.2 Work with UVM Extension and organizations like Common Roots-Farm to Fork programs to promote food education in schools and sustainable agricultural practices that support local farms and reduce reliance on large, out of state food producers and the associated VMT. www.commonroots.org Natural Resources and Conservation Committee AF.1: Ensure sustainability of local food and farm Target TBD TBD Promotion AF.1.3 Encourage food retailers to carry local products. Natural Resources and Conservation SOUTH BURLINGTON CLIMATE ACTION TASK FORCE MEETING MINUTES 10 MARCH 2022 1 The South Burlington Climate Action Plan Task Force held a meeting on Thursday, 10 March 2022, at 7:00 p.m., in person at 180 Market Street and online via Zoom remote technology. MEMBERS PRESENT: Andrew Chalnick, Darrylin Peters, Donna Leban, Ethan Goldman, Michael Mittag, Sriram Srinivasan, Bill Wargo, Paul Conner (Ex-Officio Staff Liaison) ALSO PRESENT: Melanie Needle (CCRPC project consultant), Ann Janda (CCRPC Project Consultant), Tom Herrod, ICLEI USA, R. Greco, M. Murray, S. Crowley 1. Instructions on existing building in case of emergency and review of technology options P. Conner provided instructions for those attending in person. 2. Agenda: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items No changes were made to the agenda 3. Open to the public for items not related to the agenda (7:04 pm) No comments unrelated to the agenda were provided 4. Welcome ICLEI representative to discuss science based targets Tom Herrod of ICLEI was introduced and provided an overview of ICLEI’s Science-Based Targets program. T. Herrod noted that while the 2050 targets are important, the shorter term 2030 science-based targets are critical. If the targets of this timeline are not met, it will be difficult to catch up. ICLEI has developed pathways within each emission sector. They are intended drive provide achievable actions rather than seeing one big number. Targets can be adjusted; as one goes up another can go down. Building/Thermal sectors were reviewed first. Using 2015 as the base year, 5-6% of existing buildings would need to be electrified annually, as well as new construction. Weatherization efforts reinforce and support the electrification targets. On the transportation side, targets of 4.5% annual adoption of electrical vehicles and a 10% reduction of total vehicle miles travelled by 2030 were identified. T. Herrod noted that these two sectors account for the overwhelming bulk of energy consumption in this area and as such they are the primary focus of their work and target development. Other sectors contribute but are not modelled. Task Force members discussed the assumptions that go into the modelling and discussed the base year. M. Needle indicated that these targets would be further refined including updating the base year to account for when new policies are put into place. Members of the public spoke in support of the Task Force’s efforts and underscored the findings of ICLEI’s science-based targets. 5. Review second draft of Buildings/Thermal Sector pathways and actions. 2 Task Force members continued their review of the Building/Thermal Sector. All agreed to use the Science-Based Targets as a foundation. D. Leban said the organization of the spreadsheet could be done differently to better show the overall picture of the sector and what areas are missing. Following review of the Sector, members asked CCRPC staff to update the spreadsheet and to send it back around Task Force members to identify any “fatal flaws” before approving the draft sector and moving to the next sector. 6. Continue review of Pathways & Actions by sector and schedule next topic areas. Task Force members said they felt the structure of reviewing the buildings/thermal sector worked well ultimately, by having CCRPC staff sent out a first edition, having Task Force members individually comment, and have the compiled comments in the packet. The Task Force agreed to repeat this for the Transportation sector. 7. Minutes: February 10, 2022 D. Peters moved to approve the minutes of February 10, 2022. D. Leban seconded. Motion approved 7-0. 8. Other Business With no further business before the Task Force, the meeting was adjourned at 9:27 pm. SOUTH BURLINGTON CLIMATE ACTION TASK FORCE MEETING MINUTES 30 MARCH 2022 1 The South Burlington Climate Action Plan Task Force held a meeting on Wednesday, 30 March 2022, at 7:00 p.m., in person at 180 Market Street and online via Zoom remote technology. MEMBERS PRESENT: Andrew Chalnick, Darrylin Peters, Donna Leban, Ethan Goldman, Michael Mittag, Sriram Srinivasan, Bill Wargo, Paul Conner (Ex-Officio Staff Liaison), H. Riehle (Ex-Officio Council liaison) ALSO PRESENT: Melanie Needle (CCRPC project consultant), Ann Janda (CCRPC Project Consultant), R. Greco, M. Murray, L. Bailey 1. Instructions on existing building in case of emergency and review of technology options P. Conner provided instructions for those attending in person. 2. Agenda: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items No changes were made to the agenda 3. Open to the public for items not related to the agenda (7:04 pm) No comments unrelated to the agenda were provided 4. Open to the public for items not related to the agenda (7:05 pm) M. Needle provided a brief update on the science-based targets from ICLEI. The building/thermal annual targets will likely increase as the first draft used 2015 as the start year. On the transportation side, the model will use 2019 as the base year for vehicle miles travelled. 2019 is the most up-to date year prior to the pandemic, which has thrown numbers off quite a bit. 5. *Continue review of pathways and actions by sector (7:10 pm) a. Building/Thermal Sector pathways and actions S. Srinivasan, D. Leban, and A. Chalnick presented a proposd way to organize the pathways and actions differently. They showed an example they had worked up for the buildings/thermal sector that categories actions in “policies, promotions, and investments” and aligns each to a pathway. D. Peters said she liked the updated format. Following discussion, the Task Force voted unanimously to support and use the updated format. A small subgroup of members will work to make sure that the Buildings/Thermal sector reflects the work of the Task Force and bring it back to the Task Force at the first meeting in April. b. Transportation Sector pathways and actions The Task Force began review of each potential action within the Transportation Sector. Members noted that while the transportation sector is a complex area and is heavily reliant on fuel emission standards, etc., there are numerous areas that the City and its partners can address. The Task Force reviewed and provided direction on Transportation Actions 1-22 and began item #23 before stopping for the evening. 2 For the next meeting, CCRPC staff will update the format to use the newly-approval style. R. Greco thanked the Task Force for their work, and asked them to consider that good actions may have unintended consequences. c. Next steps: remaining sectors; evaluation & organization of work To be discussed at the next meeting. 6. *Minutes: March 10, 2022 (8:55 pm) P. Conner said the minutes were not in the packet. 7. Other Business No other business. 8. Adjourn With no further business before the Task Force, the meeting was adjourned at 9:35 pm. SOUTH BURLINGTON CLIMATE ACTION TASK FORCE MEETING MINUTES 14 APRIL 2022 1 The South Burlington Climate Action Plan Task Force held a meeting on Thursday, 14 April 2022, at 7:00 p.m., in person at 180 Market Street and online via Zoom remote technology. MEMBERS PRESENT: Andrew Chalnick, Darrylin Peters, Donna Leban, Ethan Goldman, Michael Mittag (first part of meeting), Bill Wargo, Paul Conner (Ex-Officio Staff Liaison), Helen Riehle (Ex-Officio Council liaison) ALSO PRESENT: Melanie Needle (CCRPC project consultant), Ann Janda (CCRPC Project Consultant), Marcy Murray, Nic Anderson, Chris Trombly, Steve Crowley 1. Instructions on existing building in case of emergency and review of technology options P. Conner provided instructions for those attending in person. 2. Agenda: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items No changes were made to the agenda 3. Open to the public for items not related to the agenda (7:04 pm) E. Goldman noted that the Energy Committee had met and is happy to help with outreach. S. Crowley agreed and said its never too soon to begin. Members asked staff and CCRPC to share the outreach plan; P. Conner said that staff has been coordinating outreach plans among at least three large projects – the Climate Action Plan, Comprehensive Plan, and ARPA funds, and expects to bring an approach to the first May meeting. 4. Continue review of pathways and actions by sector (7:10 pm) a. Building/Thermal Sector pathways and actions Members reviewed the updated Buildings/Thermal Sector in the new format and made a few adjustments. Following discussion, D. Peters moved to Building/Energy Sector draft 1 with changes from tonight. A. Chalnick seconded. Motion approved 5-0 (M. Mittag had left the meeting by this point) b. Transportation Sector pathways and actions Members continued the review of the transportation sector. M. Needle showed the actions in the updated format, with a key to the former numbering system. Members discussed and decided to rename the sector transportation/land use as there is a land use component that is closely tied to transportation. Task Force members picked up from the discussion of housing and employment and transportation demand management. Following a robust discussion, the Task Force asked CCRPC staff to assemble the draft into an updated document for possible action at the next meeting. c. Next steps: remaining sectors; evaluation & organization of work At the next meeting, there will be an update on Science-Based Targets. 2 5. *Minutes: March 10, 2022, March 30, 2022 (8:55 pm) P. Conner noted that minutes were no in the packet. 6. Other Business (8:59 pm) The Task Force affirmed that there would be a meeting on April 27th. 7. Adjourn (9:00 pm) With no further business before the Task Force, the meeting was adjourned at 9:22 pm. SOUTH BURLINGTON CLIMATE ACTION TASK FORCE MEETING MINUTES 27 APRIL 2022 1 The South Burlington Climate Action Plan Task Force held a meeting on Wednesday, 27 April 2022, at 7:00 p.m., in person at 180 Market Street and online via Zoom remote technology. MEMBERS PRESENT: Andrew Chalnick, Darrylin Peters, Ethan Goldman, Michael Mittag, Bill Wargo, Paul Conner (Ex-Officio Staff member), Helen Riehle (Ex-Officio City Council member) ALSO PRESENT: Melanie Needle (CCRPC project consultant), M. Murray, Beth Zigmund, Ray Gonda, Susan Saferstein, Kayla Moore 1. Instructions on existing building in case of emergency and review of technology options Mr. Conner provided instructions for those attending in person. 2. Agenda: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items The update to the Science-Based Targets was moved to the front of the agenda. 3. Open to the public for items not related to the agenda (7:04 pm) No comments unrelated to the agenda were provided B. Zigmund said the land use paradigm here and elsewhere needs to change. The strongest possible language needs to be used related to land use. The use of gas powered mowers, lead blowers, etc. needs attention. This group has the opportunity to address the use of landscaping equipment, pesticides, etc. R. Gonda: agreed with B. Zigmund’s points. K. Moore: Offered a reminder that a lot of South Burlington has been developed. A lot of what we can do to address climate change is within built areas. As an example, the 30/30 goal for converting 30% of lawn to natural growth by 2030. Also offered an idea on public input / outreach. An idea that every resident could do: mow less frequently, reduce the amount of mowing equipment, encourage people to phase out gas-powered equipment. Could go further and encourage planting more perennials, plant trees. Have “climate friendly demonstration lawns”. Could choose “lazy mower”, “bee friendly, “grow your own food”, or urban micro forestry. Could be any number of things. Could have signs and public awareness and messaging around all of these. 4. Update on Science-Based Targets, Melanie Needle Provided an update on ICLEI’s work. Updated targets using 2019 as a base year. With the more compressed timeframe to 2030, the annual targets went up in most sectors. A. Chalnick recommended the City Council pass an ordinance into law that new buildings be primarily renewables. Burlington also looked at passing a tax on thermal within existing building. That’s what went to the legislature. 2 M. Mittag asked if Helen Riehle had any thoughts as a Councilor. Riehle said that something with a white paper, outlining the importance and urgency, would be useful if the Task Force were to wish to advance this first ahead of the rest of the Climate Action Plan. E. Goldman, A. Chalnick, and M. Mittag offered to serve on a small work group and bring to full task force. D. Peters requested to have any white paper at least a week in advance of the meeting in order for everyone to be prepared to take action and not have a full Task Force meeting used up by a debate. 5. *Continue review of pathways and actions by sector (7:10 pm) a. Continued Review of Transportation Sector pathways and actions M. Needle noted that the draft had been updated to reflect the Task Force’s guidance. D. Peters moved to approve this sector as the Task Force’s first complete draft. A. Chalnick seconded. The motion was approved 5-0. b. Initial review of remaining sectors: renewable energy, government operations, non- energy (waste), adaptation & resilience, agriculture & food systems Task Force members reviewed the energy generation Sector. M. Needle noted that local assignment of energy generation for South Burlington and highlighted that this figure would push up against other potential priorities for use of land in the City, as the modelling indicates that open land would need to be used for solar generation to meet the targets. P. Conner noted that the City is not obligated to have an enhanced energy plan, but that there is a catch-22 involved. If the City elects not to seek designation because the renewable targets are too high and would require use of green spaces, the City would not be eligible for “substantial deference” before the Public Utilities Commission, which has sole authority for the siting of power generation facilities. Task Force members recommended that the realistic amount of roof-top and parking lot solar be identified, and that in greenfield areas, perhaps the City’s Plan could indicate the circumstances under which solar would be acceptable (example: with integrated grazing). A. Chalnick introduced his recommended change to N.1.1. Task Members discussed implications. E. Goldman posited that if the Task Force recognized that Actions across other sectors involved nuanced approaches and some give and take on the subject area, should this topic also be considered through this lens. M. Mittag said that the choice of land use is different because building on land is not easily reversed or changed. The Taslk Force agreed to take up these other sectors from this point at a future meeting. 6. Minutes Mr. Conner reported that minutes had not been in the packet. The meeting was adjourned at 9:32 pm.