HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011/11/15 Item 16IT_Y COUNCIL
STATEMENT
~~~ CITY OF
CHULA,.VISTA
11/15/11, Item ~~,~
ITEM TITLE:
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
CHULA VISTA (1) ACCEPTING THE PROGRESS REPORT
ON CLIMATE ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION (2)
AUTHORIZING STAFF TO SECURE UP TO $10 MILLION
OF ADDITIONAL EXTERNAL FINANCING TO SUPPORT
MUNICIPAL ENERGY UPGRADE PROJECTS, AND (3)
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ALL
DOCUMENTS IN CONJUNCTION WITH OBTAINING THE
FINANCING ~
SUBMITTED BY: DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS
REVIEWED BY:
ASSISTANT DIREC R OF ENGINEER
CITY MANAGE
ASSISTANT CITY ANAGER S~
4/STHS VOTE: YES ~ NO ~X
SUMMARY
As directed by City Council, staff has been initiating (based on available funding) a suite
of actions to address the threat of climate change to the. local coimimunity. These 18
actions include both climate mitigation and adaptation measures and offer numerous
community co-benefits such as utility savings, better air quality, reduced traffic
congestion, local economic development, and improved quality of life. To date, the
majority of climate-related actions and their associated components have been able to be
implemented by leveraging existing budgets and securing additional external funding
sources. In particular, the City has been able to successfully utilize zero and low-interest
financing to fund energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades at over 50 municipal
facilities over the last 5 years. This financing is repaid using the resulting energy cost
savings (i.e. no General Fund impact) and helps reduce the City's long-term energy costs.
Staff is requesting authorization to pursue and secure an additional $10 million of
financing to continue energy ,upgrade efforts helping to lower Chula Vista's greenhouse
gas emissions.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The Development Services Director has reviewed the proposed activity for compliance
with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and has determined that the
activity qualifies for a Class 8 categorical exemption pursuant to Section 15308 [Actions
1 ~-1
11/15/11, Item
Page 2 of 4
by Regulatory Agencies for Protection of the Envirorunent] of the State CEQA
Guidelines because the proposed actions will result in the implementation of a Climate
Action Plan containing mitigation measures which are designed to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions by improving energy and water efficiency, expanding renewable energy
systems, converting to more fuel efficient and alternative fuel vehicles, and designing
transit-friendly, walkable communities. Thus, no further environmental review is
necessary.
RECOMMENDATION
Council adopt the resolution.
BOARDS/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
Staff presented the progress report on the City's Climate Action Plan to the Resource
Conservation Commission at their October 24, 2011 meeting. The Resource
Conservation Commission unanimously recommended that City Council accept the
progress report and authorize staff to secure an additional $10 million in energy upgrade
financing for City facilities.
DISCUSSION
For over a decade, Chula Vista has been anationally-recognized leader in implementing a
Climate Action Plan to address the threat of climate change to the local community. The
Climate Action Plan, which originally was adopted by City Council in 2000, was updated
in 2008 to include 7 additional climate "mitigation" measures designed to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions by improving energy and water efficiency, expanding renewable
energy systems, converting to more fuel efficient and alternative fuel vehicles, and
designing transit-friendly, walkable communities. In 2011, these measures were
complemented by 11 new climate "adaptation" strategies designed to reduce Chula Vista's
vulnerability to expected local climate change impacts such as hotter and drier weather,
diminished imported water supplies, more poor air quality/heat wave days, more frequent
wildfires, shifts in habitat and species distribution, and increased rates of sea level rise. In
addition to addressing climate change concerns, climate mitigation and adaptation actions
offer numerous community co-benefits such as utility savings, better air quality, reduced
traffic congestion, local economic development, and improved quality of life.
The attached Climate Action Plan report outlines the implementation progress for the
current 18 climate-related actions. Although most City departments have been impacted
by budget cutbacks over the last few years, staff has found innovative ways to leverage
resources to ensure significant implementation of most actions. Of the 7 climate
mitigation measures and their 27 associated implementation components, only three
components remain on-hold due to funding shortages -clean vehicle conversion of the
City-contracted street sweepers (Mitigation Measure #2), the H Street Comdor Study
(Mitigation Measure #6), and community turf conversions (Mitigation Measure #7). Of
the more recent 11 climate adaptation, strategies and their 30 associated implementation
components, only one component dealing with storm water polltrtion prevention and reuse
(Adaptation Strategy #5) and two components dealing with biological monitoring
(Adaptation Strategies #8 & #9) have been delayed due to funding shortages. Staff will
l 0-2
11/15/11, Item_~
Page 3 of 4
continue to proactively seek new funding resources and partnerships to support full
implementation.
Staff has been especially successful at utilizing zero and low-interest financing to fiend
municipal energy improvements. Specifically, the City Council authorized staff to pursue
up to $9.1 million of financing to fluid the installation of energy efficiency and renewable
energy technologies at municipal facilities (as amended under Resolution #2010-064). Tlzis
financing is repaid using the resulting energy cost savings from the energy upgrade
projects (i.e. no General Fund impact) and helps reduce the City's long-term energy
costs. Once the loans are repaid (typically <10-years), the energy cost savings are
realized in the General Fund. To date, approximately $5.4 million of financing has been
initiated resulting in energy efficiency improvements at over 50 municipal facilities, a 7-
fold increase in onsite solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity, and approximately $625,000 in
annual energy cost savings.
TOTAL $9,100,000
~.
05107!2008
Various HVAC & Lighting
CEC 008-07-ECC
$607,446
07!10/2008 Boiler & Solar Hot Water -Loma Verde CEC 008-07-ECC A.1 $425,867
03/25/2010 Streetlighting {Phase 1) -Residential CEC-006-09-ECE-ARRA $2,051,600
03/25!2010 Solar PV (Phase A) & Multi-Site Lighting CEC-009-09-ECD $1,999,806
05/04/2010 Boiler -Parkway Pool OBF Agreement $90,498
07/28/2010 HVAC -Public Works OBF Agreement $201,122
TOTAL $5,376,339
REMAINING AUTHORIZATION $3,723,661
Although approximately $3.7 million in City Council authorization remains, staff has
identified at least $11 million in additional municipal energy upgrade projects. These
high priority projects include converting the remaining streetlights to LED technologies,
improving the HVAC systems at the libraries, and expanding onsite solar PV systems to
meet the City's 20% renewable energy generation goal. As such, staff is requesting
authorization to secure up to $10 million in additional low-interest financing to continue
improving the energy performance of municipal facilities, while helping to lower Chula
Vista's greenhouse gas emissions. Financing mechanisms may inchtde California Energy
Commission loans, San Diego Gas & Electric On-Bill Financing, Qualified Energy
Conservation Bonds, Clean Renewable Energy Bonds, or similar fimding programs.
is-s
CITY COUNCIL ENERGY FINANCING AUTHORIZATION
11/15/11, Item '~
Page 4 of 4
DECISION MAKER CONFLICT
Staff has reviewed the decisions contemplated by this action and has determined that they
either: (i) solely concern the repair, replacement or maintenance of existing streets,
sewer, storm drainage or similar facilities and, as such, the financial effect of the decision
on real property is prestuned not to be material, pursuant to California Code of
Regulations Title 2, sections 18704.2(b)(2) and 18705.2(b); or (ii) are not site specific
and consequently, the 500-foot rule found in California Code of Regulations section
18704.2(a)(1), is not applicable. Consequently, this item does not present a conflict under
the Political Reform Act (Cal. Gov't Code § 87100, et seq.).
CURRENT YEAR FISCAL IMPACT
External financing would cover all capital improvement costs associated with energy
upgrade projects. In addition, staff time costs associated with implementing energy
upgrade projects is reimbursed through the City's SDG&E Local Government
Partnership fiords (i.e. no General Fund costs).
ONGOING FISCAL IMPACT
For municipal energy upgrade projects funded through external financing mechanisms,
the resulting energy cost savings would initially be used to repay the debt service, thus
there would be no new impact to the General Fund. Once the debt service is repaid
(typically. within 10 years), the City would realize the annual energy cost savings in its
General Fund.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A -Climate Action Plan Implementation Progress Report (October 2011)
Prepared by: Brendan Reed, Environmental Resource Manages°, Public Works -Conservation Section
fI:IPUQL/C WORICSIAGENDAICAS201lVO-25-1 /IClimate Actian Plan Update_Oct 7/_CAS_FlNAL.doc
16-4
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CITY OF
CHULA VISTA
CLIMATE ACTION PLAN
Implementation Progress Report
October 2011
SUMMARY
Since 2000, Chula Vista has been implementing a "Climate Action Plan" to address the threat of
climate change to the local community. Over the past 3 years, this original plan has been revised
to incorporate new climate mitigation (2008) and adaptation (2011) measures to strengthen the
City's climate action efforts and to facilitate the numerous community co-benefits such as utility
savings, better air quality, reduced traffic congestion, local economic development, and
improved quality of life. As directed by City Council, staff has been implementing the 18
climate-related actions based on available funding. Although most City departments have been
impacted by budget cutbacks over the last few years, staff has found innovative ways to leverage
resources to ensure significant implementation of most actions. Staff continues to proactively
seek new funding sources to support full implementation.
BACKGROUND
Since the early 1990s, Chula Vista has been engaged in multiple climate change forums
including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the ICLEI Cities for
Climate Protection campaign, the California Climate Action Registry, and the U.S. Conference
of Mayor's Climate Protection Agreement and has committed to reduce its greenhouse gas
(GHG) emissions 20% below 1990 levels. To accomplish this GHG reduction or climate
"mitigation" goal, the City adopted a Carbon Dioxide (C02) Reduction Plan in 2000, which
outlined steps for Chula Vista to reduce energy and fuel,. use at municipal facilities and
throughout the community. In 2008, seven new climate mitigation measures were adopted by
City Council to augment past efforts by improving energy and water efficiency, expanding
renewable energy systems, converting to more fuel efficient and alternative fuel vehicles, and
designing transit-friendly, walkable communities.
To complement these climate mitigation actions, City Council adopted eleven strategies in May
2011 to reduce Chula Vista's vulnerability to expected local climate change impacts (known as
climate "adaptation"). These strategies addressed expected impacts such as hotter and drier
weather, diminished imported water supplies, more poor air quality/heat wave days, more
frequent wildfires, shifts in habitat and species distribution, and increased rates of sea level rise.
By minimizing the risks associated with climate impacts now, future costs and public health
concerns can be avoided and/or minimized. As a result of the City's climate action efforts,
Chula Vista has been recognized for its sustainability accomplishments by multiple external
organizations such as the US Environmental Protection Agency, ICLEI-Local Governments for
Sustainability, Institute for Local Government, California Sustainability Alliance, California
Climate Action Plan Implementation 1 of 19
Progress Report (,October?Oll)
Io-~
Center for Sustainable Energy, San Diego Gas & Electric, Sierra Club,_ and Earthworks San
Diego.
IMPLEMENTATION PROGRESS
The following report outlines the implementation progress for the 7 climate mitigation measures
and the 11 climate adaptation strategies. In contrast to past progress reports, staff has worked to
succinctly summarize each action's background information, implementation status, and next
steps in one page. For each action and its associated components, staff has also outlined whether
the implementation is:
Completed -All required implementation steps have been completed
Ongoing -All required initial steps have been completed, but component is still
actively being implemented
In Progress -Implementation steps are still being developed and pursued based on the
original implementation plan
On-Hold -Implementation has not proceeded due to a programmatic barrier (such as
funding)
As directed by City Council, staff has been implementing the 18 climate-related actions based on
available funding. Although most City departments have been impacted by budget cutbacks over
the last few years, staff has found innovative ways to leverage resources to ensure significant
implementation of most actions. Of the 7 climate mitigation measures and their 27 associated
implementation components initiated in 2008, only three components remain on-hold due to
funding shortages -clean vehicle conversion of the City-contracted street sweepers (Mitigation
Measure #2), the H Street Corridor Study (Mitigation Measure #6), and community turf
conversions (Mitigation Measure #7). Of the more recent 11 climate adaptation strategies and
their 30 associated implementation components, only one component dealing with storm water
pollution prevention and reuse (Adaptation Strategy #5) and two components dealing with
biological monitoring (Adaptation Strategies #8 & #9) have been delayed due to funding
shortages.
Staff continues to proactively seek new funding resources and partnerships to support full
implementation. Chula Vista and San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) will begin to develop
their new 2012-2015 work plan for their Local Government Partnership, which funds multiple
climate change actions related to energy use. The City will be working to create similar
successful partnerships with other agencies, universities, and non-profits in the future to support
other climate change actions. Over the next 6 months, the City will also investigate the use of
solid waste franchise fees to support expanded street sweeping services and their use of
alternative fuels. Finally, the City will continue to pursue grant and supplemental environmental
project funding through state and federal agencies. The City's new eCivis grant management
tool will empower staff to more effectively research and identify potential grant funding sources
to support climate change programs and initiatives.
Climate Action Plan Implementation 2 of 19
PreQress R~oor* rOctober =0111
_ is-s
CLIMATE MITIGATION MEASURES
The following (7) measures are designed to reduce greenhouse gas or "carbon" emissions from
municipal operations and the broader Chula Vista community. The measures complement one
another as well as state and federal climate mitigation initiatives.
MITIGATION MEASURE #1
CLEAN VEHICLE REPLACEMENT POLICY FOR CITY FLEET
Overview
Measure #1 directs the City to require that 100% of the replacement vehicles purchased for
the municipal fleet be high efficiency (hybrid) or alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs). However,
factors such as the appropriateness for the vehicle task, fueling infrastructure, petroleum
displacement, and the overall cost and environmental benefit must be considered prior to
purchasing each replacement vehicle.
• •• -.
~ Design and construction of a 12
000- City's 128 diesel-fueled vehicles (or 23%
- 1 ,
gallon biodiesel tank at PWC Completed of the total fleet} has been converted to
biodiesel.
' ~ 2 Replace City's-fleet with AFVs or hybrids Ongoing' 25% of City's total fleet has been
converted to AFVs.
Next Steps
City vehicles will be replaced with hybrids or AFVs on an ongoing basis, as appropriate
funding becomes available. For Fiscal Year 2012, two wastewater vehicles will be replaced
with AFVs or hybrids. No funding has been identified for other vehicle replacements in the
current fiscal year.
Climate Action Plan Implementation
°rogress Report (OctoL^~er ?OI1 j
3of19
1~-7
MITIGATION MEASURE #2 :
CLEAN VEHICLE REPLACEMENT FOR CITY- CONTRACTED FLEETS
Overview
Measure #2 directs staff to work with fleets under City authority to influence their expanded
use of alternative fuels and high efficiency/alternative fuel vehicles (AFV) including electric,
biodiesel, ethanol, hybrid, hydrogen, and compressed natural gas (CNG) based on
appropriateness for vehicle task, fueling infrastructure, petroleum displacement, overall cost,
and environmental benefit.
• •• ~ -•
1 Convert Chula Vista Transit to alternative Com leted
p 100% of Chula Vista Transitfleet have
fuels and/or high efficiency vehicles been converted to AFV.
Convert Solid Waste Hauler to 100% of Allied Waste fleet have been
2 alternative fuels and/or high efficiency Completed, converted to AFV.
vehicles
Due to budget constraints, the current
3 Convert Street Sweeper to alternative
On-Hold Street Sweeping contract was not able to
fuels and/or high efficiency vehicles include AFV, but the contract will be
_ amended if more funding is identified.
As part of the current RFP process for
' Convert City-contracted taxis to taxi service, contractors are being asked
4 alternative fuels and/or high efficiency In Progress to integrate alternative fuels and/or
vehicles hybrid technologies.
Open publicly-available CNG dispenser
P
I Clean Energy, Inc. is installing a CNG
f
l di
t PWC th
ill
t
t
5 at PWC rogress
n spenser a
ue
a
w
open
o
the public in October 2011.
Next Steps
The City continues to work with utilities and regional agencies to further develop local
infrastructure for alternative fuels helping to ensure that these fueling options are readily
available for contractors and the public, whenever possible. For example, City staff continues
to explore the feasibility of installing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at community-
oriented municipal facilities. In addition, Chula Vista is a founding member of the San Diego
Association of Governments' (SANDAG) Plug-In Electric Coordinating Council which will
help to ensure local jurisdictions are ready to support expanding EV infrastructure.
Climate Action Plan Implementation
Progress Report (October?O11)
4of19
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MITIGATION MEASURE #3 _ .
BUSINESS ENERGY EVALUATIONS
Overview
The measure, as revised by City Council, states that businesses with storefronts or offices
need to participate in a no-cost energy and water evaluation of their premises when a new
business license is issued or once every 3-5 years for a renewed business license. The
measure helps businesses identify efficiency opportunities at their facilities, access rebates
and financing for efficiency improvements, and lower their monthly utility costs. Businesses
are not required to implement any of the identified energy or water efficiency opportunities
and are not required to complete evaluations for facility areas beyond their operational control
(ex. whole-building systems operated and maintained by a Property Manager/Landlord).
-. -.
Develop ordinance integrating energy & CVMC Chapter 20 was revised to include
1 water evaluations into business licensing ;Completed the evaluations, known as the "Free
Resource & Energy Business
process Evaluations" (FREBE) program.
~
2 Complete onsite energy & water
i In 2011, 924 evaluations have been
evaluations for businsesses annually Ongo
ng completed, while 225 businesses were
exempt and 348 were out of business.
- ,~ Through the FREBE program, over 327
Link businesses, who are interested in businesses (or 35% of'completed'
_
3
pursuing efficiency improvements, to
Ongoing evaluations) businesses received free
'
available rebates, incentives, & financing water-saving aerators, smart power
strips, HVAC maintenance, CFLs, or
other efficiency upgrades in 2011.
In 2011, only 10 businesses (out of
4 Report to City Council on collected fines
O
o 1,535) remain non-compliant and have
il N
1
b
from non-compliant businesses ng
ing unt
ovem
er
5th to participate in
FREBE. In 2010, only 1 business was
' fined ($15) for non-compliance.
Next Steps
With San Diego Gas & Electric and the local water districts (Sweetwater Authority and Otay
Water District), City staff will continue to identify and develop new utility-saving
opportunities and services that can be offered to local businesses through the FREBE
program. Since the program's inception, over 93% of businesses (based on participant
surveys) stated that they would refer the FREBE program to another business.
Climate Action Plan Implementation 5 of 19
Progress Report (October 20111
16-9
MITIGATION MEASURE #4 .-
GREEN BUILDING STANDARD
Overview
Measure #4 directed staff to adopt regulations mandating new and renovated residential and
non-residential projects to incorporate early the requirements of the Housing and Community
Development's California Green Building Standards Code (CalGreen) and to be more energy
efficient than the 2008 Building Energy. Efficiency Standards (Title 24) by a specific
percentage. In addition, the measure directed staff to implement a green building awareness
program and update/establish design and regulatory provisions that incorporate sustainable
practices at acommunity-scale.
.~ -.
In fall 2009, the City adopted the 2010
CA Green Building Standards Code early
1 Adopt a citywide Green Building Compl~tPd with local amendments. To date, 812
Standard new residential and 15 new commercial
units have complied with the new code.
In fall 2009, the City adopted an
• Enhanced Energy Efficiency Code. To
_ 2 Adopt a citywide Enhanced Energy Completed date, 544 new residential and 13 new
.. Efficiency Standard commercial units have complied with the
new code.
Through the City's Sustainability Desk at
Launch a Green Building Awareness the permit counter, contractors are able
3 program for builders, permit applicants, Ongoing to obtain info and assistance about
& the general public sustainable building options.
In 2011, the City incorporated
sustainability criteria into its updated Air
4 Develop design guidelines for Completed Quality Improvement Plan Guidelines
sustainable development and Design Manual for large and small-
scale development, respectively.
Next Steps
The City will continue to implement its green building and related standards to emphasize
energy and water efficiency, renewable energy, improved indoor air quality, and transit-
friendly development. City staff is also exploring opportunities to offer expedited permitting
and processing to new residential and non-residential building construction that exceeds the
City's Enhanced Energy Efficiency standard.
Climate Action Plan Implementation 6 of 19
Progress Report lOctober ?Ol 1)
1 ~-1 0
MITIGATION MEASURE #5 _ .
SOLAR & ENERGY EFFICIENCY CONVERSION PROGRAM
Overview
The "Solar & Energy Efficiency Conversion" program was recommended to help .facilitate
energy efficiency and renewable energy retrofits in the community and at municipal facilities.
The community component, called the Home Upgrade, Carbon Downgrade program, is
intended to help the average resident and small business overcome common institutional
barriers, upfront capital costs, complicated application processes, and time constraints. The
program also strives to promote local job creation and economic development by linking
community participants with local contractors and vendors. Finally, Measure #5 included the
implementation of apre-wiring and pre-plumbing requirement for solar photovoltaic (pv) and
solar hot water systems, respectively, in all new residential units.
. -• -.
With federal stimulus funds, the City's
Implement a Solar & Energy Efficiency Home Upgrade, Carbon Downgrade
1
Conversion program for the community Ongoing program has provided approximately
$250,000 in incentives to residents for
energy upgrades.
'
The City has completed installation of
.
2 Upgrade municipal facilities with energy
Ongoing new solar arrays at 11 facilities and has
efficiency & solar energy technologies begun converting over 4,000 streetlights
to more efficient technolgies.
Through the Home Upgrade, Carbon
Link conversion program to local Downgrade program, over $3.9 million in
3
economic development Ongoing sales have been generated at local
appliance stores benefitting the Chula
Vista economy.
Adopt pre-wiring and pre-plumbing In 2009, the City adopted the "solar
"
4 standards for solar pv & solar hot water, Completed ready
ordinances. To date, 970 new
respectively residential units have complied with the
new code.
Next Steps
The City will continue to implement its Home Upgrade, Carbon Downgrade program to
promote energy efficiency and solar retrofits in the community. The City has begun to work
with the California Center for Sustainable Energy and San Diego Gas & Electric to develop
"Sustainable Energy Showcase Homes" throughout Chula Vista and to aggregate
homeowners together in order to reduce the implementation costs for energy upgrades.
Climate Action Plan Implementation 7 of 19
Progress Report (October 20ll)
~~-~~
MITIGATION MEASURE #6
SMART GROWTH AROUND TROLLEY STATIONS
Overview
Measure #6 is intended to accomplish the remaining planning groundwork necessary to
support realization of the "Smart Growth" development densities and intensities envisioned in
both the General Plan and the Urban Core Specific Plan (UCSP). Specifically, the measure's
four components are focused on the areas surrounding the E Street, H Street, and Palomar
Street trolley stations.
. -. -.
~ Implementation of UCSP around E Street
In Progress Staff will be presenting design proposals
for E Street parcels to the City Council
Trolley Station for consideration in 3-6 months.
~ The H Street Corridor Study is on-hold
• Initiate a H Street Corridor Study to Pending the California State Supreme
2 better define redevelopment On-Hold Court's ruling on redevelopment
opportunities around the Trolley Station authorization.
Develop a specific plan for the Palomar City is currently working to complete the
3 Gateway area, including the Palomar In Progress specific plan and its related
environmental documents for City
Trolley Station Council consideration in 9-12 months.
Staff continues to work with SANDAG
Pursue trolley grade separation along the
I
P and CalTrans on pursuing trolley grade
ti
hi
h i
l
i
d
d i
th
4 I-5 corridor rogress
n on, w
separa
c
s
nc
u
e
n
e
Regional Transportation Plan currently
under consideration by SANDAG.
Next Steps
The City will continue to pursue "Smart Growth" development surrounding Chula Vista's
three trolley stations. Specifically, staff will work to secure funding for trolley grade
separation and the H Street Corridor Study to facilitate moving forward with both projects.
The preservation of the City's Redevelopment Agency will likely be a major factor in.
ensuring project completion.
Climate Action Plan Implementation
Progress Report (October 201 i)
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16-12
MITIGATION MEASURE #7
TURF LAWN CONVERSION PROGRAM
Overview
Because water movement and treatment requires a large amount of energy (leading to GHG
emissions), Measure #7 helps residents and. businesses replace turf lawn areas with
"WaterSmart" landscaping. These landscape types are diverse, colorful, -and attractive
incorporating low maintenance and water-wise design features. Specifically, the- program's
components include (1) continuation and expansion of the NatureScape program to promote
water conserving and nature-friendly landscaping, (2) coupling of residential and business turf
lawn replacement with the solar and energy efficiency conversion program (Measure #5), (3)
converting select municipal facilities to low water use plantings and irrigation, and (4)
updating various municipal landscape regulations and guidelines to comply with new state
requirements and further promote outdoor water use efficiency.
-• -.
Through the program, the community
Expand the NatureScape outreach now has over 332 certified "Backyard
1
program Ongoing Wildlife Habitats." The City also received
"Commuity Wildlife Habitat" designation
from the National Wildlife Federation.
Current federal funding, which supports
• Include turf lawn replacement in Home the Home Upgrade, Carbon Downgrade
2 Upgrade, Carbon Downgrade program On-Hold program, can not be used for turf
(Measure #5) conversions. Staff continues to explore
other funding sources.
Convertmunicipal facilities to low water The City continues to make annual
3
use plantings & irrigation Ongoing investments into converting turf and
irrigation at municipal sites.
In 2010, a revised Landscape Water
4 Update landscaping ordinances to
m
d Conservation Ordinance was approved
emphasize water use efficiency plete
Co by City Council that creates a water
budget for new or renovated landscapes
and promotes water-efficient design.
Next Steps
City staff continues to pursue grants and other alternative funding sources (such as "Property
Assessed Clean Energy" or PACE programs) to support the conversion of municipal,
residential, and commercial landscapes to more water efficient versions.
Climate Action Plan Implementation
Pro~~-ress Report (October 2011)
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16-13
CLIMATE ADAPTATION STRATEGIES
The following (11) strategies are designed to reduce Chula Vista's future risks and costs from
expected climate change impacts such as sea level rise, more frequent wildfires and extreme heat
days, and increased stress on energy and water supplies. The measures complement one another
as well as state and federal climate adaptation initiatives.
ADAPTATION STRATEGY.#1 '
COOL PAVING
Overview
To address climate change impacts related to the urban heat island effect (hotter ambient air
temperatures), Strategy #1 is intended to incorporate reflective (or "cool paving") into all
municipal projects (parking lots and streets) and new private parking lot projects over a
specific size. Cool pavements refer to a range of established and emerging paving materials,
which store less heat and have lower surface temperatures- compared with conventional
products. Specifically, the strategy's components include performing a comprehensive study
to evaluate and test multiple reflective pavement technologies and developing options (based
on the study's results) for incorporating cool pavement technologies into municipal standards.
.. -.
Staff has secured funding and a
consultant to perform a desktop
Conduct a "cool paving" study to evaluation of cool pavement options. In
~ evaluate options In Progress addition, staff is pursuing State grant
funding for a demo project at Greg
Rogers Park.
Develop standards for incorporating "cool Dependent on the outcome of
2 paving" into municipal and development In Progress component #1, staff will present
projects recommendations to City Council for
consideration.
Next Steps
City staff expects the desktop evaluation of cool pavement technologies to last 6-8 months. If
Chula Vista is successful in securing grant funding for a demonstration site, the project would
be initiated within 6 months and be monitored for 12-24 months to assess pavement
performance. In addition, as City staff develops a new shade tree policy (Strategy #2) in
collaboration with community stakeholders, there will be some inclusion of cool paving as an
alternative approach to meeting the policy's intent.
Climate Action Plan Implementation
Pro~-ess Report (October ?0111
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16-14
ADAPTATION STRATEGY #2 ;
SII~4DE TREES
Overview
To address climate change impacts related to the urban heat island effect and energy demand,
Strategy #2 is intended to incorporate shade trees into all municipal improvement projects and
all private development parking lot projects. Shade trees contributing to a robust urban forest
act as a natural cooling mechanism for urban areas. In addition, canopy-forming trees help
reduce storm water runoff, provide habitat for wildlife, and increase property values.
Specifically, the strategy's components include (1) developing a shade tree policy for future
City Council consideration, (2) amending the Municipal Landscape Manual to be consistent
with the new policy, and (3) ensuring that. the recently-updated Design Manual is consistent
with the new policy.
. -. -.
Staff has met with community
1
Develop a formal shade tree policy
In Progress stakeholders to begin drafting a shade
'
tree policy and revising the City
s
approved street tree list, as appropriate.
Amend the Municipal Landscape Manual Based on the outcome of component #1,
2 to be consistent with the new shade tree In Progress the Municipal Landscape Manual will be
policy revised, as appropriate.
As part of the new Council-approved
Ensure that the Design Manual is
l
d
C
t Design Manual, new development
t i
t
t
h
d
t
3
consistent with the new shade tree policy e
e
omp projec
s mus
ncorpora
rees
e s
a
e
and provide at least 50% shade
coverage for paved areas.
Next Steps
City staff will continue to work with landscape architects, developers, and other community
representatives to finalize a formal shade tree policy, which will be presented to City Council
in 2-4 months for review and consideration. Following a City Council decision, staff will
immediately revise the Municipal Landscape Manual to be consistent.
Climate Action Plan Implementation
Prowess Report (October 201 i 1
~~-~3
11 of 19
ADAPTATION STRATEGY #3
COOL ROOFS
Overview
Strategy #3 is intended to address climate change impacts related to the urban heat island
effect and energy demand by promoting "cool roofs." Cool roofs, which are made of highly
reflective and emissive material, can remain approximately 50 to 60°F cooler compared to
traditional materials, thus helping to lower ambient temperatures inside and outside of
buildings. This creates a more comfortable and healthy environment for building occupants
and reduces energy use for air-conditioning. To accomplish Strategy #3, City staff will
fiirther evaluate cool roofmg options and propose amendments to the municipal building
codes for City Council consideration.
.. -.
With the assistance of SDG&E, staff has
completed acost-benefit analysis of cool
' 1 Conduct a "cool roof' study to evaluate Completed roof options, which was used to inform
options proposed building code revisions
(component #2).
Develop standards for incorporating "cool Staff will present recommendations to
2 roofs" into building codes In Progress City Council for consideration in the next
1-2 months.
Next Steps
Based on City Council direction; staff will finalize cool roof standards within 30-days of the
ordinance's second reading. Cool roofs may also be included into an expedited permitting
and processing incentive program currently being developed for new residential and non-
residential buildings that exceed Title-24 (2008) by at least 30% and meet CalGreen Tier 2
standards (or equivalent LEED, Build-It-Green, or other Energy Efficiency/Green Building
program).
Climate Action Plan Implementation
Progress Report (October 2011)
12 of 19
~~-~~fl
.ADAPTATION STRATEGY #~
'LOCAL WATER SUPPLY & REUSE
Overview
Expected climate change impacts could limit imported water availability, increase utility costs
for residents and businesses,. and lead to higher demand for local water sources. As such,
Strategy #4 is intended to educate the community about the benefits and appropriate uses of
local water supplies and further integrate recycled water/onsite water reuse systems into new
development. Specifically, components include (1) evaluating municipal building code
options to incorporate single-source gray water "stub-outs" in new residential buildings and
indoor recycled water in new commercial buildings, (2) developing an educational guide
about proper gray water use, (3) creating an incentive (using external funding sources) to
promote onsite water reuse, and (4) updating the City's water-related plans to reference and
promote recycled water and onsite water reuse systems.
.. -.
Staff has begun to meet with the water
Develop standards for incorporating gray districts and other relevant public
1 water stub-outs (residential) and indoor In Progress agencies to discuss potential standards
recycled water use (commercial) language and parameters.
Based on the outcome of component #1,
~ an educational guide will be created to
2 Develop a gray water educational guide In Progress promote the proper use of gray water
to help ensure proper use and other onsite water reuse options
(such as rain harvesting).
With the water districts, staff has
developed a draft framework for an
3 Create an onsite water reuse incentive In Progress onsite water reuse incentive program.
program Once finalized, it will be used to solicit.
external funding sources for support.
Based on the outcome of component #1,
4 Update water-related municipal In Pro ress
g municipal guidelines will be updated to
guidelines & plans to promote gray water be consistent with new gray water and
other water reuse policies.
Next Steps
City staff expects to present a gray water stub-out standard to City Council for consideration
within 3 months. Because indoor use of recycled water is a more complex issue, a draft
standard for commercial buildings is still being outlined in close coordination with the water
districts. The remaining components will begin upon completion of components #1 and #2.
Climate Action Plan Implementation
Progress Report (October 3011)
16-17
13 of 19
ADAPTATION STRATEGY #5
STORM WATER POLLUTION PREVENTION & REUSE
Overview
Climate change will likely alter regional precipitation patterns, thus altering water runoff and
sediment movement flows through local watersheds. Because of urbanization and its
associated activities, pollutants are discharged with these flows into the City's storm drainage
systems, creeks, rivers, San Diego Bay, and the ocean and reduce the beneficial uses of these
water bodies for the Chula Vista community. Strategy #5 is intended to revise the City's
storm water regulations and applicable municipal codes to efficiently manage higher
concentrations of pollutants in urban runoff by minimizing water waste, using natural
landscapes to help drain or reuse runoff, and by ensuring that irrigations systems are properly
installed and maintained.
. -. -.
Develop revisions to the municipal code To determine the required code
1 to prohibit excessive landscape over- In Progress revisions, staff is currently reviewing the
' irrigation resulting in urban runoff relevant CVMC sections related to storm
water and discharges to public streets.
Staff is currently researching potential
• ~
2 Encourage the beneficial reuse of pipe uses of pipe flushing water at
flushing water at construction sites In Progress construction sites, which will help the City
develop a guidance brochure for
• construction site managers.
Develop incentives promoting Low Various non-monetary incentives are
3 Impact Development (LID) design In Progress being explored by staff for developers to
concepts incorporate LID features in their project
designs.
Conduct a feasibility study for the
4
beneficial reuse of dry weather flow
On-Hold External funding to support the feasibility
sources study is still being identified and secured.
Next Steps
City staff expects that the landscape water runoff code revisions will be presented to City
Council for review and consideration within the next 12 months. Likewise, components #2
and #3 dealing with developer guidance brochures and incentives will be completed within 12
months. The implementation of component #4 will be delayed until funding is secured.
Climate Action Plan Implementation
Progress Rzport (October ?Ol l)
14 of 19
~ ~-~ $
ADAPTATION STRATEGIES #6 & #7
EDtiCATION & "'ILDFIRES
EXTREME HEAT PLANS
Overview
The frequency and intensity of wildfires and extreme heat events is expected to increase due
to local climate change impacts. These events could lead to greater public safety (loss of life
and property) and health concerns (poor air quality and infectious disease transmittal). The
strategies are designed to educate the general public and the business community about the
impacts of climate change using existing City and community partner outreach mechanisms
with a special emphasis on making homes more resilient to wildfires, incorporating poor air
quality day notifications, and educating businesses about employee heat illness risks. In
addition, extreme heat events will be added as a significant emergency to the City's public
safety plans with a special emphasis on serving vulnerable populations and supporting a
robust network ofenergy-secured "Cooling Centers."
. -. -.
The City launched its new "Ready, Set,
GO!" campaign, which is a
1 Expand community wildfire education Ongoing.- comprehensive outreach program
.~
designed to promote wildifre prevention
& preparedness.
' The City will be revising its Emergyency
2 Revise emergency plans to include
t
h In Pro ress
g Response Plan in 2012 and its section of
reme
ex
eat events the Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation
Plan in 2015, as appropriate.
City staff now receives and forwards-air
Establish a procedure for notifying the , quality notifications from the San Diego
3 community about poor air quality & Completed County Air Pollution Control District
extreme heat days through the City's Nixle community
messaging system.
Next Steps
City staff will continue to implement its community education and notification programs
related to wildfires and extreme heat days. Finally, the City's public safety plans will be
revised to include extreme heat events, as part of their regularly-scheduled updates over the
next 3 years.
Climate Action Plan Implementation
Progress Report (October 2011)
15 of 19
15-19
.ADAPTATION STRATEGY#8
OPEN SPACE MANAGEMENT .
Overview
Chula Vista's open space areas include landscaped areas within developments, parks and
recreation areas, and open space that has been set aside as a preserve for sensitive biological
resources. In order to assess and reduce impacts associated with climate change on parks and
open space and their associated ecosystems, Strategy #8 is intended to seek opportunities for
the City to partner -with the Resource Agencies, non-profit organizations, and/or adjacent
public land managers to monitor and manage/restore ecosystems to ensure long-term habitat
connectivity, species resilience, and community recreational opportunities.
• •. -.
Integrate climate change-related Staff has included climate change-
biological monitoring into Otay Ranch related monitoring into the FY2012 Work
1 Preserve's Management Plan & Annual On-Hold Plan, but funding for Management Plan
Work Plans amendments & implementation is still
~ being pursued.
• Update the Otay Valley Regional Park OVRP partners have secured grant
(OVRP) Concept Plan to incorporate funding for 30 educational signs. As part
2 climate-resilient design & educational In Progress of the new sign program, the City will
guidelines work with partners on Concept Plan
amendments.
Convert landscaped areas in open space Recently, over 5.5 acres of open space
3 districts to water-saving plants, mulch, & Ongoing . received mulch applications and over
irrigation sytems 2,900 s.f. of turf has been converted to
water-wise landscaping.
Next Steps
The City will continue working with its OVRP partners in order to finalize the proposed
amendments to the Concepts Plan dealing with climate change impacts by spring 2013. Chula
Vista and its partners are also pursuing grant funding to expand the network of multi-use trails
in the regional park. Any new trails will be designed to be resilient to climate change
impacts.
Climate Action Plan Implementation
Pro<7ress Report (October ?011)
16 of 19
10-20
AI}APT ~TION STRATEGY' #9
WETLANDS PRESERVATION
Overview
Expected local climate change impacts include precipitation variability and sea level rise that
will stress riparian wetlands and estuarine wetlands, respectively. As a result, the locations
where the temperature, moisture, and other environmental conditions are suitable for wetlands .
and their associated species will shift. In order to reduce these impacts, Strategy #9 is
intended to ensure that, when preserving or restoring coastal and riparian wetland, the City
take steps to incorporate adequate upland or transition habitats to accommodate shifts in
wetlands coverage and help ensure public access due to sea level rise and other climate
change impacts. Specifically, components include (1) evaluating the feasibility of monitoring
local wetlands species ranges and abundances in response to climate change impacts, (2)
incorporate wetlands "migration" in habitat management and restoration design criteria in the
future Bayfront Natural Resources Management Plan (NRMP), and (3} revise the OVRP
Habitat Restoration Plan and Non-native Plant Removal Guidelines to include strategies for
climate change adaptation issues.
. •. -.
Evaluate potential to monitor local Staff, in coordination with its partners, is
1 wetlands' biological health to assess On-Hold seeking funding to support biological
climate change impacts wetlands monitoring.
•
City, along with the Port &Bayfront
2 Incorporate climate change & sea level
In Progress Wildife Advisory Group, are finalizing a
rise concepts in Bayfront NRMP RFP for a biological consultant to help
lead NRMP efforts.
Amend OVRP Habitat Restoration & Non City has begun discussions with partners
3 Native Plant Removal Plans to promote In Progress on proposed OVRP plans' amendments.
climate resiliency
Next Steps
City staff expects that a NRMP biological consultant, -who will assist in developing
appropriate climate change and sea level rise concepts, will be secured in the next 4-5 months.
The City will also continue working with its OVRP partners in order to finalize the proposed
climate change-related amendments to the Habitat Restoration Plan and Non-Native Plant
Removal Plan by spring 2013.
Climate Action Plan Implementation 17 of 19
Progress Report (October 201 l)
16-21
ADAPTATION STRATEGY #l~
SEALEVEL RISE & LAND DEVEL~PMENTC~DES ~~
Overview
Over the next 40 years, sea level rise rates are expected to increase with local sea levels 12 to
18 inches higher than their current levels. Higher sea levels can result in increased erosion,
more frequent flooding and property damage, loss of wetland habitats, and fewer waterfront
public access options. As such, Strategy #10 directs the City to amend its land development
codes and CEQA guidelines to incorporate climate change-related sea level rise into future
development and municipal infrastructure projects' design and review. Specifically, the
components include (1) revising the grading ordinance to consider a project's vulnerability to
future sea level rise and flooding events, (2) modifying the Subdivision Manual to ensure that
storm water/drainage infrastructure can address future sea level rise and flooding impacts, and
(3) ensuring that environmental review and CEQA procedures are consistent with these
changes.
. -. -.
Staff has created draft guidelines
~ Revise the grading ordinance to address
In Progress pertaining to sea level rise and drainage
increased rates of sea level rise and is now presenfirig them to different
community stakeholders for feedback.
•• Staff has created draft guidelines
' 2 Modify Subdivision Manual to ensure
In Progress pertaining to sea level rise and drainage
proper drainage with higher sea levels and is now presenting them to different
community stakeholders for feedback.
Ensure CEQA review procedures are Staff has created draft guidelines
3 consistent with new sea level-related In Progress pertaining to sea level rise and drainage
land development guidelines and is now presenting them to different
community stakeholders for feedback.
Next Steps
After receiving feedback from community stakeholders and the Development Services
Oversight Committee, staff will make final revisions to the proposed land development codes.
Staff expects to present the proposed sea level-related guidelines to City Council for review
and consideration by December 2011.
Climate Action Plan Implementation
Progress Report fOctober?Oll)
18 of 19
15-22
ADAPTATION STRATEGY #11
GREEN ECONOMY
Overview
Climate change impacts create new issues that local communities and, in particular,
businesses need to address and prepare for in order to reduce future risks and costs. These
issues can include higher insurance premiums due to greater flooding or wildfire risks, more
expensive utility costs due to higher energy and water demand, and lower productivity due to
more employee sick days from frequent extreme heat and poor air quality days. As such,
Strategy #11 is designed to provide assistance and non-monetary incentives to help businesses
manage climate change risks and to attract businesses that provide "green" products or
services into Chula Vista. Specifically, the components include (1) revising the municipal
purchasing policy to more robustly promote the procurement of "green" products and
services, especially from local Chula Vista businesses, (2) revising existing business outreach
programs to include recommendations on how they can reduce future climate change risks,
and (3) continuing the recruitment and retention of "green" businesses and manufacturers in
Chula Vista.
. -. -.
Revise "green" procurement policy & Staff has begun developing a new
'
1 In Progress framework for implementing the City
s
process current "green" procurement process.
• ,
Staff has revised the CLEAN Business
. Modify business outreach programs to checklist to include info on climate
2 include information on reducing climate In Progress adaptation strategies and will make
change risks similar revisions to the FREBE checklist
as part of the CY2012 business licensing
process.
Staff continues to assist the Morgan
Continue recruiting & retaining "green"
P
I Solar/Nypro joint venture project in
facilit
bli
hi
l
l
f
i
t
t
3 rogress
n ng a
manu
ur
ng
y
a
s
oca
ac
es
businesses by the end of the year and creating 100
green jobs.
Next Steps
By November, City staff plans to present a "local preference" procurement policy, which will
include an emphasis on supporting participants in the Chula Vista CLEAN Business program.
In addition, new internal procedures for implementing and tracking the City's "green"
procurement policy will be finalized by 7anuary 2012.
Climate Action Plan Implementation
Progress Report October 2011)
16-23
19 of 19
RESOLUTION NO. 2011-
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE -CITY OF
CHULA VISTA (1) ACCEPTING THE PROGRESS REPORT
ON CLIMATE ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION (2)
AUTHORIZING STAFF TO SECURE UP TO $10 MILLION OF
ADDITIONAL EXTERNAL FINANCING TO SUPPORT
MUNICIPAL ENERGY UPGRADE PROJECTS, AND (3)
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ALL
DOCUMENTS IN CONJUNCTION WITH OBTAINING THE
FINANCING
WHEREAS, Chula Vista has been anationally-recognized leader for over a decade in
implementing a Climate Action Plan to address the threat of climate change to the local
community; and
WHEREAS, the current 18 climate-related actions include both climate mitigation and
adaptation measures and offer numerous community co-benefits such as utility savings, better air
quality, reduced traffic congestion, local economic development, and improved quality of life;.
and
WHEREAS, the majority of climate-related actions and their associated components have
been able to be implemented by leveraging existing budgets and securing additional external
funding sources; and
WHEREAS, the City has been able to successfully utilize zero and low-interest financing
to fund energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades at over 50 municipal facilities over the
last 5 years; and
WHEREAS, staff is requesting authorization to secure an additional $10 million of
financing to continue energy upgrade efforts helping to lower Chula Vista's greenhouse gas
emissions.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Chula Vista does hereby resolve as
follows:
1. That it accepts the progress report on Climate Action Plan implementation
2. That it authorizes staff to secure up to $10 million in additional external
financing to support municipal energy upgrades
3. That it authorizes the City Manager, or his designee, to execute all documents
with obtaining the financing
16-24
Resolution No
Page 2
Presented by
Approved as to form by
Richard A. Hopkins ' en R~oogins
Director of Public Works , ity Attorney
16-25