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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2012/05/22 Item 17CITY COUNCIL AGENDA STATEMENT ~~;~~ ~ ~t(r~ ® , j ~~ CITY OF ~" CHULAVISTA 05/22/12, Item ~7 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 SUBMIT A PROPOSAL UP TO $3,800,000 FOR THE 2013-2014 LOCAL GOVERNMENT PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM ADMINISTERED BY SAN DIEGO GAS & ELECTRIC AND THE CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, AND (3) AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ALL DOCUMENTS IN CONJUNCTION KITH SUBMITTING THE PARTNERSHIP PROPOSAL SUBMITTED BY: DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF ENGINEE REVIEWED BY: CITY MANAGER ~ S T ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER mil 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 community. These 18 actions 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 action measures have been able to be successfully implemented by leveraging existing budgets and securing additional external funding sources. As such, staff has prepared a proposal for the 2013-2014 San Diego Gas & Electric Local Government Partnership program, under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission. The potential funding would allow the City to further integrate energy efficiency into municipal programs and facilities and to continue implementation ofenergy-related climate action measures. 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 by Regulatory Agencies for Protection of the Environment] of the State CEQA 17-1 05/22/12, Item Page 2 of 5 Guidelines because the proposed actions will result in the implementation of energy efficiency programs that are designed to improve local air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Thus, no further environmental review is necessary. RECOMMENDATION Council adopt the resolution. BOARDS/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Staff presented the Climate Action Plan progress report and the Local Government Partnership proposal to the Resource Conservation Commission at their May 14, 2012 meeting. The Resource Conservation Commission unanimously recommended that City Council accept the progress report and authorize staff to submit the proposal. 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 recently-revised Climate Action Plan includes 7 climate "mitigation" measures, which are designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and 11 climate "adaptation" measures, which are designed to reduce Chula Vista's vulnerability to expected local climate change impacts. In addition to addressing climate change concerns, these climate action measures 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 and their 57 associated implementation components. Since the last progress report in October 201 I, staff continues to make significant progress in implementing most actions. Out of the 27 mitigation-related implementation components, 75% have been successfully completed and/or are being implemented on an ongoing basis, while another 14% are still being actively pursued. Of the 30 more recent adaptation-related implementation components, 30% have been completed, while another 63% are still being actively pursued. There are only five components that 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), community turf conversions (Mitigation Measure #7), and two components dealing with biological monitoring (Adaptation Strategies #8 & #9). To support continued development and implementation of energy-related climate action measures, staff has prepared a proposal for the 2013-2014 San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) Local Government Partnership program, under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission. Through the Local Government Partnership (LGP) program, the City and San Diego Gas & Electric have collaborated since 2006 to identify unique opportunities to leverage municipal policies, programs, and services to maximize energy efficiency opportunities in Chula Vista. The funding is provided through "Public Purpose Program" charges embedded within utility rates. The funds are used to reduce the amount of kilowatt-hours (electricity) and therms (gas) consumed by the Chula Vista community, especially sectors which historically have not fully participated or are not eligible for existing energy incentive programs. Targeted sectors include low income 17-2 05/22/12, Item f Page 3 of 5 residents, small businesses, contractors, permit applicants and developers. In addition to lowering monthly utility costs, these energy savings contribute to reducing Chula Vista's greenhouse gas emissions or "carbon footprint." Below are component summaries of the (up to) $3,800,000 LGP proposal: Municipal Facility Improvements - $410,000 The Public Works Department will continue efforts to identify, finance, and implement energy improvements at municipal facilities. In addition, two studies will be performed to assess emerging technology applications: (1) a pilot program to test adaptive control streetlighting technologies and (2) a feasibility evaluation for establishing a citywide municipal energy-management system to improve energy management capabilities. Finally, a Greenhouse Gas Emissions inventory will be performed to inform stakeholder-driven revisions to the City's Climate Action Plan. Community Energy Efficiency Outreach - $987,000 A variety of departments will integrate energy efficiency education and outreach into their services. The Conservation Section will continue to expand its Free Resource & Energy Business Evaluation (FREBE) and CLEAN Business programs to assist local businesses in identifying energy-saving opportunities. The Library and Recreation Deparhnents will deliver energy efficiency messaging and curriculums into their Energy Lounge and Empower Hour curriculums, respectively. Finally, the City's Home Upgrade, Cazbon Downgrade program will continue to facilitate residential energy retrofits through home energy ratings and incentives. Sustainable Buildings - $1,067,000 To integrate energy efficiency into the permitting and inspection processes, the City will revise its Enhanced Energy Efficiency and Green Building standards to be compliant with the new statewide Title-24 code expected in 2014. The proposed LGP will also continue funding City staff to help educate permit applicants, contractors, and developers on energy efficiency opportunities and to train permit counter technicians and building inspectors on advanced energy technologies. Finally, the City will work to develop an incentive through the entitlement process for new developments that obtain LEED-Neighborhood Development certification. Green Jobs & Homes for All - $196,000 The City will leverage its current affordable housing programs to launch an innovative workforce training program. The program will recruit local unemployed and underemployed residents to participate in a free 3-week long home energy upgrade contractor training. In addition to classroom sessions, the students will gain hands-on experience performing energy retrofits on local homes, owned by low-income residents. These low-income residents will be able to access a special low-interest revolving loan fund to finance the energy improvements, which will be repaid through the resulting utility cost savings. 17-3 05/22/12, Item ~~ Page 4 of 5 Energy Efficiency Economic Development - $180,000 The Economic Development Division will continue to pursue the development of a "green" business park to assist in attracting clean technology companies to locate their business operations and manufacturing in Chula Vista. Staff will also work to connect current clean tech-oriented Chula Vista businesses with each other through an informal peer network and will work with current Chula Vista businesses to identify opportunities for new "green" product and service development. Regional Collaboration - $605,000 A new "South Bay Energy Action Collaborative" will be created between the City of Chula Vista and other neighboring jurisdictions in order to facilitate joint program development and capacity building for South Bay communities. In addition, Chula Vista will coordinate with region-wide partners on a variety of initiatives, such as a Net Zero Energy building roadmap, Energy Upgrade California permit streamlining, Home Energy Rating (HERS) incentives, workforce training, regional "green" business recognition, and the San Diego Climate Collaborative. Administration - $355,000 The City's Local Government Partnership is coordinated by aMid-Manager with some additional administrative support. In addition to being the central contact for SDG&E and the California Public Utilities Commission, the Mid-Manager oversees compliance with all funding requirements, performs quarterly invoicing and reporting, and develops strategic collaborations with other agencies. If the City's Local Government Partnership proposal is accepted by SDG&E, it will be included in their 2013-2014 Energy Efficiency Program Portfolio (EEPP). The EEPP will be reviewed and ultimately approved by the California Public Utilities Commission in fa112012. DECISION MAKER CONFLICT Staff has determined that the recommendations requiring Council action are not site specific and consequently the 500 foot rule found in California Code of Regulations section 18704.2(a)(1) is not applicable to this decision. CURRENT YEAR FISCAL IMPACT Overall, the Climate Action Plan is being implemented using existing budgets and external funding sources, resulting in no new fiscal impact in the current year. If awarded, the new Local Government Partnership will provide up to $3,800,000 ($1,900,000 per calendar year) for program implementation costs. A portion of these funds reimburse the General Fund for City staff time. 17-4 05/22/12, Item Page 5 of 5 ONGOING FISCAL IMPACT If the proposed Local Government Partnership is awarded, up to $1,900,000 of funding will be available for calendar year 2014 (which spans fiscal year 2013 and 2014), resulting in a positive fiscal impact. In addition, any municipal energy retrofit projects completed as a result of the Local Government Partnership will lower the City's future annual utility costs. ATTACHMENTS Attachment A -Climate Action Plan Implementation Progress Report (April 2012) Prepared by: Brendan Reed, Environmental Resource Manager, Public Works -Conservation Section H:IPUBLIC WORKS- ENGIACENDAICAS2012105-22-/21Climate Action P[arc Update_Apr 72_CAS_F1NAL.doc 17-5 ATTAf~iMENT ~~S// ~: ^- u .~~.- CITY OF CHULAVISTA CLIMATE ACTION PLAN Implementation Progress Report Apri12012 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 yeazs, 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. Based on available funding, staff has been implementing the 18 climate-related actions and their 57 associated components. To date, most of the components have been successfully completed, are being implemented on an ongoing basis, or are being actively pursued. Only five components remain on-hold due to funding shortages BACKGROUND Since the eazly 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 Center for Sustainable Energy, San Diego Gas & Electric, Sierra Club, and Earthworks San Diego. Climate Action Plan Implementation 1 of 19 Prob ess Report (Apri12012) 17-6 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 aze 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 duetted by City Council, staff has been implementing the 18 climate-related actions and their 57 associated implementation components based on available funding. Since the last progress report in October 2011, staff continues to make significant progress in implementing most actions. Out of the 27 mitigation-related implementation components, 75% have been successfully completed and/or are being implemented on an ongoing basis, while another 14% are still being actively pursued. Of the 30 more recent adaptation-related implementation components, 30% have been completed, while another 63% aze still being actively pursued. There are only five components that 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), community turf conversions (Mitigation Measure #7), and two components dealing with biological monitoring (Adaptation Strategies #8 & #9). Staff continues to proactively seek new funding resources to support full implementation. In regards to grant funding, Chula Vista will be submitting an approximately $2.5 million proposal to the California Public Utilities Commission to continue and expand its Local Government Partnership with San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E). The Local Government Partnership funds multiple climate change actions related to energy use. The City will also be notified in the neaz future of two potential grant awards for climate adaptation efforts - a "cool paving" demonstration site at Greg Rogers Park and climate-resilient trail design plan for Otay Valley Regional Park. In regazds to other external funding sources and partnerships, the City, in coordination with the California Statewide Communities Development Authority, anticipates launching aProperty- Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program to help finance commercial energy retrofits in summer 2012. Also, staff will be presenting a new phase of municipal energy retrofit projects, which include additional solar photovoltaic arrays and LED streetlight conversions, to City Council for final consideration over the next few months. Finally, the City of Chula Vista, in partnership with the City of San Diego, County of San Diego, Port of San Diego, San Diego Foundation, and San Diego Gas & Electric, has created the "San Diego Regional Climate Collaborative." One of the Collaborative's goals is to highlight the partners' joint and individual accomplishments to the general public and potential funders through a unique branding and website platform. Climate Action Plan Implementation 2 of 19 Progress Report (April 2012) ~~-~ CLIMATE MITIGATION MEASURES The following (7) measures are designed to reduce greenhouse gas or "cazbon" 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. Next Steps City vehicles will be replaced with hybrids or AFVs on an ongoing basis, as appropriate funding becomes available. For the current Fiscal Year, two hybrid wastewater vehicles have been ordered and are expected to arrive in May. For Fiscal Yeaz 2013, two additional wastewater vehicles will be replaced with either hybrid or alternative fuel technologies. Climate Action Plan Implementation 3 of 19 Progress Report (Apri12012) ~~-8 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 ahernative 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. • •• •• Y ~'I ~'~ i~{~ .. ~~ ~ 1 Convert Chula Vista Transit to alternative ~ ~ .' Completed: 100% of Chula Vista Transit fleet 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. Convert City-contracted Tow Trucks to Anew RFP far Tow Truck service, which 4 alternative fuels and/or high efficiency In Progress includes hybrid/AFV requirements, has vehicles been finalized and is scheduled to be released in June 2012. Open publicly-available CNG dispenser a°~ ' o ed' The new public CNG fuel station has 5 c mplet dispensed almost 15,000 gallons at PWC (equivalent) since October 2011. Next Steps The City continues to work with contractors and. community partners to promote local alternative fuel use and infrastructure. The City will complete the selection process for Tow Truck contracted service in late summer and expects the winning bid to integrate alternative fuel technologies. City staff is also actively participating on the San Diego Association of Governments' (SANDAG) Regional Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Working Group, to support expanding EV infrastructure. Across Chula Vista, there are currently ten public alternative fuel facilities - (5) electric, (2) CNG, (1) propane, (1) biodiesel, and (1) ethanol. Climate Action Plan Implementation 4 of 19 Progress Report (April 2012) 17-9 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 aze not required to complete evaluations for facility areas beyond their operational control (ex. whole-building systems operated and maintained by a Property Manager/Landlord). •. -. ~'r ~~' %l ' ~ ~ F . ~ Y t iaC3 "~ *~` ~g~' Develo ordinance inte ratin ener g s~t-~ '~ p g g gy ` ~` '~" ~ ` CVMC Chapter 20 was revised to include " 1 ~ water evaluations into business licensing ~;oqa eted ~ the evaluations, known as the Free R & E B i y Fx , esource nergy us ness process °}z`sp~ = Evaluations" (FREBE) program. 1 5.~,.y 3+'~.'; x { 4 t ~ '~z 3g``~`~$~ ~~ ~' In 2012, 588 evaluations have been 2 Complete onsite energy & water jl3ngorn9< completed to date, while 276 have been evaluations for businsesses annually ;' scheduled during the next 5 months. fry ~1 x :' ; Through the FREBE program, over 300 °' businesses (or 53% ofcompleted' 3 Link businesses, who are interested m , ~ ': rovements i ffi i im to ~n om evaluations) received free water-saving , pursu ng e c ency p 9 9, = aerators, smart power strips, HVAC available rebates, incentives, & finanang " =:! maintenance, CFLs, or other efficiency ;;~' upgrades in 2012. ~ t., . In 2011, only 4 businesses (out of 1,535) 4 Report to City Council on collected fines S{)ngorng ;! were non-compliant and were charged a from non-compliant businesses $15 fine on their license renewal. Next Steps City staff is developing a new program plan for Calendar Years 2013-2014 for its Local Government Partnership in coordination with San Diego Gas & Electric and regional partners. The LGP will continue to provide critical funding and resources to assist local businesses in reducing their energy use and costs. Since the program's inception, over 94% of businesses (based on participant surveys) stated that they would refer the FREBE program to another business. Climate Action Plan Implementation 5 of 19 Progess Report (Apri12012) 17-10 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 aoommunity-scale. •. -. i~ ,2' €,~-~;a In fall 2009, the City adopted the 2010 ~Ik~ ~n,~ ~ ' ' ~"' i` CA Green Building Standards Code early 1 Adopt a citywide Green Building ~ " ~ '+ 'Com~letec~ with local amendments. In fall 2011, a ildi l t G B Pl Standard ng vo un ary reen u us program `~; l offering expedited permitting was ~''~ ` ' launched. t ~~ 3 ~ ~ .~,~~~;~,~_ In fall 2009, the City adopted an ' ~"~" `~,i Enhanced Energy Efficiency Code. To 2 Adopt a citywide Enhanced Energy Completed" date, 674 new residential and 13 new - Efficiency Standard ! commercial units have complied with the ;~ ~ ~ _: ~ new code. R1: `ht { t i ! ~ ° : I Through the City's Sustainability Desk at f Launch a Green Building Awareness ` il i l O i the permit counter, contractors are able 3 ng;. ders, perm t app icants, program for bu ngo ~ : to obtain info and assistance about & the general public y, ~s~; sustainable building options. i $t .° r ;~ 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 will be revising its Enhanced Energy Efficiency standard in 2014, as needed, when the new statewide Title-24 code is revised. Climate Action Plan Implementation Progress Report (April 2012) 6of19 17-11 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 bamers, 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. •. -. ~_ swY~{ ' With federal stimulus funds, the City's a ,,; Home Upgrade, Carbon Downgrade t Implement a Solar & Energy Efficiency :~rtgviri ` ; 9 program has provided approximately Conversion program for the community ~ $300,000 in energy upgrade incentives to ~-, '-'' residents and completed a Sustainable ~ ~ ' ' Energy Showcase Home. ~~ ~. % The City has completed installation of ~ 2 Upgrade municipal facilities with energy ~` } ~` . ~ ~{3ngomg new solar arrays at 11 facilities and .,. efficiency & solar energy technologies conversion of over 4,300 streetlights to w ,~ ' . more efficient technolgies. M ~._ ,; . . ~ ili..v of .u :..:. ? ' " ~ ' Through the Home Upgrade, Carbon Link conversion program to local ~~.., ,' ^ Downgrade program, over $3.9 million in 3 i;Ongomg ; sales have been generated at local _ economic development `.. st , `-. appliance stores benefitting the Chula ~ " ' Vista economy. s ~~ ~ :fr ' In 2009, the City adopted the "solar Adopt pre-wiring and pre-plumbing l d ready" ordinances. To date, 1,044 new 4 . standards for solar pv 8 solar hot water, Comp ete residential units have complied with the respectively new code. Next Steps The City will be including additional funding for its Home Upgrade, Carbon Downgrade program in its 2013-2014 SDG&E Local Government Partnership proposal. Potential program components include streamlined permitting, workforce training, and home energy ratings in order to further facilitate energy efficiency and solar retrofits in the community. City staff has also begun to pursue a local Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program to help finance community retrofits. Climate Action Plan Implementation. 7 of 19 Progress Report (April 2012) ~~-12 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 aze focused on the azeas surrounding the E Street, H Street, and Palomar Street trolley stations. • •• -• Staff is continuing to work with property Implementation of UCSP around E Street owners and other interested parties t ti f E St t d t 1 In Progress s projec op ons or ree owar Trolley Station parcels, and will apprise the City Council when viable prospects are identified. ~ ~ Initiate a H Street Corridor Study to Due to the dissolution of redevelopment 2 better define redevelopment On-Hold agencies statewide, the H Street Corridor opportunities around the Trolley Station Study is on-hold indefinitely until alternative funding sources are identified. 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 July 2012. In coordination with SANDAG and Pursue trolley grade separation along the CalTrans, a consultant has been 4 I-5 corridor In Progress engaged to conduct a grade separation design study to be completed in December 2012. Next Steps The City will continue to pursue "Smart Growth" development surrounding Chula Vista's three trolley stations. Specifically, staff will work with CalTrans and SANDAG to complete project design and to secure funding for trolley grade sepazation. In addition, the City will continue to pursue project options for the E St. Station area properties and to identify alternative funding opportunities for the H Street Corridor Study. Climate Action Plan Implementation 8 of 19 Progress Report (April 2012) 17-13 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. Specifically, the program's components include (I) 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 imgation, and (4) updating vazious municipal landscape regulations and guidelines to comply with new state requirements and further promote outdoor water use efficiency. • •. -. ': Through the program, the community ~ ~'G~''' ". r~` now has over 395 certified "Backyard Expand the NatureScape outreach ~~ ~~ - Wildlife Habitats." The City also 1 program ~Ongem9. ` launched its "NatureScape-In-A-Box" ~,j.'"' ~~z-.~ ~ kits and workshop series in January ~~~` r ;°~ 2012. 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. E ~ ~tl~-d t~` tr _`~; ~,°, The City has initiated turf replacement Convert municipal facilities to low water ~'`~° 1 r; projects along Orange A~.enue (medians 3 use plantings & irrigation Ongo~rrg_ between Connely Ave & Hilltop Dme) {~ -; and at the Animal Shelter. ~~ v 4 r; .~ _~ In 2010, a revised Landscape Water "' ' ' Conservation Ordinance was approved 4 Update landscaping ordinances to ; Completed; by City Council that creates a water emphasize water use efficiency ;,~ budget for new or renovated landscapes and promotes water-efficient design. Y; Next Steps City staff continues to pursue grants, incentives, and other funding sources to support the conversion of municipal, residential, and commercial landscapes to more water efficient versions. For municipal facilities, staff is working to develop a resource reinvestment fund, in which a portion of utility savings from energy and water retrofit projects can be reinvested in similar projects. Climate Action Plan Implementation 9 of 19 Prowess Report (Apri12012) - 17-14 CLIMATE ADAPTATION STRATEGIES The following (I1) 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. 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 compazed 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 standazds. Next Steps With the results of the desktop evaluation of cool pavement technologies, staff expects to develop a work plan to begin to test and further integrate feasible technologies into the Capital Improvement Program. If Chula Vista is successful in securing grant funding for a demonstration site, the project would be initiated by the end of 2012 and be monitored for 12- 24 months to assess pavement performance. In addition, as City staff further 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 10 of 19 Progress Report (Apri120 ] 2) 17-15 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 pazking 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 presented the draft policy to the Resource Conservation Commission in 1 Develop a formal shade tree policy In Progress February and is scheduled to present to the Development Services Oversight ~ Committee in May 2012. 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 Design Manual, new development 3 consistent with the new shade tree policy Completed projects must incorporate shade trees and provide at least 50% shade ~' coverage for paved areas. Next Steps City staff will continue to work with landscape azchitects, developers, and other community representatives to refine the draft shade tree policy, which will be presented to City Council in May 2012 for final review and consideration. Following a City Council decision, staff will revise the Municipal Landscape Manual to be consistent. Climate Action Plan Implementation 11 of 19 Progress Report (Apri12012) ~~-~6 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 further evaluate cool roofing options and propose amendments to the municipal building codes for City Council consideration. Next Steps The Cool Roof Ordinance, which requires new low-rise residential developments in Climate Zone 10 (eastern Chula Vista) to comply with Tier 2 reflective roof specifications found in the California Green Building Standards Code, will become effective on Apri126, 2012. Climate Action Plan Implementation 12 of 19 Progess Report (April 2012) ~~-~~ AD~1'T~i1`ION STI2A'i"EGY #14= . ~.flCAIi`3~'~TEI2 SI3PP,LI' & REST 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 Z 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 t d i h guidelines & plans to promote gray water new gray wa er an be consistent w t other water reuse policies. Next Steps City staff expects to present a gray water stub-out standard to City Council for consideration within the next 6 months. Because indoor use of recycled water is a more complex issue, a draft standard for commercial buildings, as well as the other components, will be pursued after astub-out standazd is finalized. Climate Action Plan Implementation 13 of 19 Progress Report (Apri12012) ~~-~8 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 imgations systems are properly installed and maintained. . •. -. Develop revisions to the municipal code Staff has identifed the required code 1 to prohibit excessive landscape over- In Progress revisions needed to address landscape water runoff and has begun to draft an irrigation resulting in urban runoff ordinance for future consideration. A preliminary search to identify other Encourage the beneficial reuse of pipe agencies or companies, who reuse pipe Z flushing water at construction sites In Progress flushing water on construction sites, was completed to inform development of a guidance brochure. Develop incentives promoting Low Various non-monetary incentives are 3 Impact Development (LID) design In Progress being explored by staff for developers to incorporate LID features in their project concepts designs. Conduct a feasibility study for the A concept plan for re-using dry weather 4 beneficial reuse of dry weather flow In Progress flows in Hilltop Park for park landscape irrigation was created and will be used to sources help target potential grant funding. 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 3-4 months. Likewise, components #2 and #3 dealing with developer guidance brochures and incentives will be completed within 6 months. For component #4, City staff will further develop the Hilltop Park Storm Water Reuse Project and seek funding support, as appropriate. Climate Action Plan Implementation ]4 of 19 Progress Report (April 2012) 17-19 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." • ~. -. ~ ~^~;, ~ ~~i ,; ~ ' "°'' "' 4 ~t} V; ~ The City launched its new "Ready, Set, : r ' GO!" campaign, which is a ' 1 Expand community wildfire education Ongoing;` comprehensive outreach program ~`~^` designed to promote wildifre prevention ~ ~ -1 •; g preparedness. s • The City will be revising its Emergyency 2 Revise emergency plans to include In Progress Response Plan in 2012 and its section of extreme heat events the Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan in 2015, as appropriate. '- City staff now receives and forwards air Establish a procedure for notifying [he 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. Staff has begun the revision process for the Emergency Response Plan and expects to finalize the plan in September 2012. The Multi- Jurisdictional Hazazd Mitigation Plan will be revised to include extreme heat events, as part of its regularly-scheduled update in 2 yeazs. Climate Action Plan Implementation 15 of 19 Progress Report (Apri12012) ~~-20 Overview Chula Vista's open space azeas include landscaped areas within developments, pazks 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 pazks 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 will include climate change-related biological monitoring into Otay Ranch monitoring into the FY2013 Work Plan, 1 Preserve's Management Plan & Annual On-Hold but funding for Management Plan amendments & implementation is still Work Plans being pursued. - ` ~ Update the Otay Valley Regional Park The City applied for a state grant to further design and develop park trails 2 (OVRP) Concept Plan to incorporate In Progress (east of 805), which will integrate climate- climate-resilient design 8 educational resilient design and educational guidelines concepts. Installed 4 new master valves in the open Convert landscaped areas in open space ' space districts to prevent accidental 3 districts to water-saving plants, mulch, & , 'Ongpigg ' water discharge from breaks or irrigation sytems accidents. Next Steps If the OVRP is awarded the park trails grant, the City and its partners will implement the project's design and environmental review work over the next 12 months. Staff will also continue coordinating with its regional partners to finalize the proposed Concept Plan amendments, which integrate climate change impacts and vulnerabilities, by spring 2013. Climate Action Plan Implementation ] 6 of 19 Proa ess Report (Apri12012) 17-21 a~~~~~t~ly S3'RPiTEGY #9 ;~ ~ , . ; VS'E~'LAIAIDS 1'RESERSYATIflN . . ~, 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 shifr. 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 Pro ress 9 Wildife Advisory Group, has reviewed rise concepts in Bayfront NRMP potential biological consultants to help lead the 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 will be secured in April and will begin to assist in developing appropriate climate change and sea level rise concepts in May 2012. 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 Irnplementation 17 of 19 Progess Report (Apri12012) 17-22 ADAP~`AT'~ON. S3'RA'i'EGY #~iU >: ; SEA LEVEL,RISE 8r ~:lD DE~'EL©PMt/NT CODES Overview Over the next 40 years, sea level rise rates aze 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. .~ •. ~' ' .' An ordinance revising Municipal Code Revise the grading ordinance to address ~o e !- 15.04 was adopted by City Council to 1 increased rates of sea level rise plat d ~ ,: address coastal development and sea '- level rise concerns. • ,. i In March 2012, City Council approved '' revisions to the Subdivision Manual, 2 Modify Subdivision Manual to ensure Completed' which require 16" of sea level rise to be proper drainage with higher sea levels used for evaluating projects within tidally r : influenced areas. >;; Staff has been collaborating with the Ensure CEQA review procedures are Office of Planning & Research to further 3 consistent with new sea level-related In Progress define appropriate sea level rise land development guidelines environmental review processes. Next Steps Over the next 6 months, staff will finalize the CEQA review procedures for sea level rise impacts to ensure that they are consistent with new municipal policies and statewide guidelines. Climate Action Plan hnplementation 18 of 19 Progress Report (Apri12012) 17-23 ADAPTATION STRATEGI' #li !. GREEN ECUN0141''i' Overview Climate change impacts create new issues that local communities and, in particulaz, 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. -. -• The first component - a "Virtual 1 Revise "green" procurement policy & In Pro ress g Warehouse" to facilitate the reuse of process municipal supplies -has been developed and will be launched in May 2012. ~ ~ _ ~. Both the CLEAN Business and FREBE Modify business outreach programs to l t d C checklists have been updated to include 2 include information on reducing climate omp e e " info on business-related climate change risks .:~~ . - adaptation strategies. _ r;; A searchable, online database of Chula " Vista CLEAN Businesses and a yearlong 3 Continue recruiting & retaining "green In Progress "Green Business Challenge" were businesses implemented to help Chula Vista CLEAN Businesses. Next Steps After the launch of the "Virtual Warehouse," new internal procedures for implementing and tracking the City's "green" procurement policy will be finalized over the next 6 months. In addition, staff continues to develop an overall "local preference" procurement policy, which will include an emphasis on supporting participants in the Chula Vista CLEAN Business program Climate Action Plan Implementation 19 of 19 Progress Report (Apri12012) 17-24 RESOLUTION NO. 2012- 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 SUBMIT A PROPOSAL UP TO $3,800,000 FOR THE 2013-2014 LOCAL GOVERNMENT PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM ADMINISTERED BY SAN DIEGO GAS & ELECTRIC AND THE CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, AND (3) AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ALL DOCUMENTS IN CONJUNCTION WITH SUBMITTING THE PARTNERSHIP PROPOSAL WHEREAS, Chula Vista has been anationally-recognized leader in implementing a Climate Action Plan to address the threat of climate change to the local community; and WHEREAS, the recently-revised Climate Action Plan includes 18 measures that address climate change concerns, while providing 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 April 2012 implementation report for the Climate Action Plan outlines the progress for the current 18 measures and identifies only five components (out of 57) that remain on-hold due to funding shortages; and WHEREAS, to support continued development and implementation of energy- related climate action measures, staff has prepared a proposal for the 2013-2014 San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) Local Government Partnership program, under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission; and WHEREAS, the Local Government Partnership (LGP) program works to identify unique opportunities to leverage municipal policies, programs, and services to maximize energy efficiency opportunities in the community; and WHEREAS, the $3,800,000 LGP proposal would help residents, businesses, and developers to lower their monthly utility costs and to reduce Chula Vista's citywide greenhouse gas emissions. NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Chula Vista does hereby resolve that it: 1. Accepts the implementation progress report for the Climate Action Plan, 2. Authorizes staff to submit a proposal up to $3,800,000 for the 2013-2014 San Diego Gas & Electric Local Government Partnership, and 17-25 3. Authorizes the City Manager, or his designee, to execute all documents in conjunction with submitting the Local Government Partnership proposal. Presented by Richazd A. Hopkins Director of Public Works Approved as to form by 'Glen R/Fioogins ,' ~~ity Attorney 17-26