City of Delray Beach Green Task Force Report
g r a p h i c de s i g n ; d a n s l o a n * w w w .s l o a n d e s i g n . b i z
An Overview Green Taskforce
Mandate & Methodology
METHODOLOGY
handled previously. A number of
To make sense of this very complicat-
best practices were noted for further
ed topic, the Task Force set in place a
reference.
very specific methodology.
AUDIT
The Goals of the Green Task Force
REVIEW OF COMMITMENTS
what the City was already doing.
included addressing Developing:
The Task Force’s first task was to
Given the City’s commitment to
review the existing commitments
becoming a Florida Green Building
noted above, researching the what
Coalition Green Local Government,
Delray had really committed to
The Green Task Force invested a good deal of thought into these Recommendations....
1. Ways to improve the Environmental Sustainability of City programs, services, equipment, and
doing.
facilities. 2. Strategies for improving environmental sustainability of the com-
RESEARCH
munity.
The Task Force knew
3. Incentives for residents, busi-
that many govern-
nesses, and organizations to practice
ments had already
environmental conservation includ-
done extensive work
ing recycling.
in this area. The Task
4. Proposed means to enhance water and energy conservation.
areas and researched numerous other gov-
5. Ideas for promotion of tree plant-
ernment documents,
ing and xeriscaping.
ordinances, policies,
6. Best Practices for implementation
etc., to familiar-
in Delray Beach, including long-
ize itself with how
term strategies.
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Force assigned topic
these issues had been
2008 * T h e D e l r a y B e a c h G r e e n T a s k Fo r c e F i n a l Re p o r t
The Task Force then wanted to see
the checklist for this program pre-
participant then was able to vote on
sented a good place to start. A survey
the top priorities to narrow down
based on this extensive list of green
the potential recommendations. The issues with the most votes were
things a government could do was
added to the potential list of recom-
given to the various city departments.
mendations.
The results of this survey are available in the Appendices of the Main
CITY STAFF INPUT
Report In short, it was found that
The Task Force also invited Delray
the City had already implemented
staff to make suggestions. These
enough green policies to likely get
variety of areas.
were also incorporated into the final
certified under the FGBC program.
ADDITIONAL POTENTIAL
list of potential recommendations.
The Task Force sought to supple-
FINAL LIST & REPORT
POOL OF POTENTIAL RECOMMENDATIONS
ment the FGBC list with its own
After creating a master list of poten-
recommendations. Each Task Force
tial recommendations from all of
The FGBC checklist provided a
member brought to the table addi-
the above, the Task Force drafted
good starting point, as it contained
tional potential recommendations
the final report, incorporating those
an extensive list of potential recom-
that were reviewed as a group and
measures into “quick wins” and
mendations. The remaining items
added to the potential recommenda-
“long term goals” for the chapters
the City was not already doing were
tions list.
laid out in the full report.
then explored in depth to determine
PUBLIC WORKSHOP
potential ease and cost for the City to
As noted above, the Task Force felt
organize the full report primarily by
achieve. A multiplier of cost and ease
that it was important to engage the
City Department because, ultimately,
was used to give each potential green
Delray Community to get additional
it is the City Departments that will
initiative a score. Additional circum-
potential recommendations. The
implement the recommendations.
stances were noted as well for each
Task Force hosted a public work-
The Task Force felt that many other
initiative that might address subjects
shop on October 4, 2008 from 9
government task forces had fallen
the score could not quantify (e.g. a
am through 1 pm. With one Task
short in their final documents by not
long term return on investment for
Force member facilitating the work-
laying out a roadmap to implemen-
an energy saving item). Based on the
shop, and the others facilitating
tation. By identifying those items
discussion groups at each table, over
pertinent to specific departments, the
40 members of the public generated
City now has not only a variety of
over 100 potential ideas. The com-
ideas it can implement, but an orga-
plete list of workshop ideas (Ref 3.9)
nizational structure geared towards
is available in the Appendices. Each
implementing them.
FGBC LIST AS INITIAL
score and other important information, the Task Force compiled a list of potential recommendations in a
RECOMMENDATIONS
The Task Force chose to
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g r a p h i c de s i g n ; d a n s l o a n * w w w .s l o a n d e s i g n . b i z
An Overview High Level
Goals
For Delray Beach, Florida GOAL #1: TRACK & DELIVER ECONOMIC BENEFITS FROM ENVIRONMENAL PROGRAMS: Follow Thru on the Mayors Climate Production Agreement by; a. Completing the Inventory of Green House Gasses utilizing ICLEI’s Software to establish a meaningful Benchmark Year. b. Establish a Set of
GOAL #2: COMMUNITCATE GREEN GOALS & ACHIEVMENTS Do this by: a. Green Annual Report with clearly indicated metrics, milestones, current year achievements, and Goals for the Coming Year. b. Green Awards Programs- as described in CH 9.2 c. Broad PR and Communications
GOAL #4:ENCOURGE WATER CONSERVATION & WATER QUALITY IMPROVMENTS: (I.C.W. & Ocean water): Do this by a. Completing, as quickly as funding allows, for the 100% reuse of Sewer water as Reclaimed Water for use in Lawn and Landscape
Efforts to further all of the goals and
Irrigation. Target a 5-year system
programs listed under each depart-
buildout.
mental chapter of the full report.
GOAL #3: ENCOURGE GREEN PLANNING PRACTICES:
b. Perform an Energy Audit & Consider Performance Contracting vendor to improve overall system efficiency
Meaningful and Attainable GHG
Do this by:
Reduction Goals (A goal of 7%
3.1. ADOPT GREEN PLANNING
Stormwater Filtering System on each
reduction from 1990 levels by 2012
INIATIVES. Develop and
outfall location
is the stipulated goal in the Mayors
Implement a Sustainable Land
Climate Protection Agreement,
Use/Planning and Zoning Action
based on the Kyoto Protocol) how-
Plan. Create a Green Business
ever, a more recent base year may be
Overlay District & Transit Oriented
more practical alternative.
Development District. Hire a consultant review LDRs to facilitate this effort. Work with the Chambers Economic Development Committee
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to coordinate efforts.
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c. Protect the ICW by utilizing
d. Adopt Inverting Billing Structure (reward users who conserve, by tier)
GOAL #5: ENCOURGE GREEN BUILDING PRACTICES: Do this by:
GOAL #7: IMPLEMENT GREEN PURCHASING:
5.1. ADOPT GREEN CERTIFICATION GOALS for all
Do this by:
Existing & New Municipal Buildings
7.1 Develop and Implement a
& City Supported Facilities: Adopt
Environmental Purchasing Policy for
LEED Silver as the Official Goal
supplies, priting, furniture, technol-
for all New Municipal Buildings &
ogy, & vehicles (at a minimum)
Substantial Renovations. See Chapter
7.2 Enact Energy Efficicient
s 9 & 12 for particulars.
GOAL #6: ENCOURGE FUEL EFFICIENCY & CLEANER TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS:
Residents Enjoying the Fruits of Sucessful Sustainable long range planning.
Computer & Light Bulb Purchasing. See ES 12 for more ideas.
Do this by: 6.1. Promote Fuel Efficient Driving by all City Employees & Communicate Widely. 6.2 Adopt an “Anti-Ideling Ordinance” 6.3 Increase the use of Alternate Fuel/Electric Vehicles and Bicycles. See ES-11 more many other ideas.
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An Overview High Level
GOAL #9: ENCOURAGE GREEN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT:
For Delray Beach, Florida
Do this by:
GOAL #8: INCREASE RECYCLING DIVERSION RATES:
Development Committee, Develop
Goals
Chamber of Commerce Economic
and Implement a Plan for Green
Beach. See ES 13 for many more ideas.
GOAL #10: IMPROVE INDOOR & OUTDOOR AIR QUALITY Do this by: 10.1 Establish an Environmentally
and Policy to require recycling at all
10.2 Phase out Percholorate Flares
special events (and specially marked
10.3 Install Air Scrubbers at all Fire
containers)
Houses. See ES 13 for many more
8.2 Go Paperless for Public
ideas.
Information Requests (they are created as PDF documents and emailed or copied onto customer provided flash drives) 8.3 Police Dept. to use Paperless Citation System. See ES 12 for many more ideas.
Residents Enjoying the Fruits of Sucessful Sustainable long range planning.
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Photo Credit: Delray Beach DMC
Sensitive Leaf Blowing Ordinance.
8.1 Revise Special Event Application
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Businesses to Locate in Delray
9.1 Working in Concert with the
Economic Development
Do this by:
92 Develop Incentives for Green
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Recommendations by Environmental Category
Sustainable
Urban Planning
& Design INTRODUCTION
el-related greenhouse gas emissions
hoods in inner areas are as much as
than those in outer areas.
50% more cost efficient than low
• Doubling density will reduce travelrelated GHG emissions by 5%. • Construction of buildings and infrastructure is responsible for about 20% of neighborhood energy and green-
Three-fourths of all greenhouse gases
house gas emissions over a 50-year
come from American towns and cit-
assumed lifespan.
ies, and local government decisions influence up to half the country’s emissions. Local governments are at the center of the climate debate for three reasons: • One: Local infrastructure is acutely vulnerable to climate change.
• Households close to a city’s center spend about half as much on travel expenses as those in the suburbs do. • 25 to 33 % of potential buyers prefer infill, mixed-use, and transit-oriented neighborhoods, and this demand
• Two: Local governments have sig-
is expected to grow as the
nificant authority over decisions that
population ages.
drive greenhouse gas emissions.
• Public infrastructure costs
• Three: Climate Protection is a
for sites close to city centers
compelling opportunity to advance
were just 10% of those for
an integrated local agenda with con-
projects in the suburbs.
siderable economic, social, and envi-
• Cumulatively, compact
ronmental benefits.
development could save 8% in development costs and reduce local government
FACTS
deficits by 10% by 2025.
• Residents in neighborhoods in
• High density neighbor-
inner areas have 36-60% lower trav106
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density outer suburbs neighborhoods on a life cycle cost basis. • Residents of walkable communities are 2.4 times more likely to get 30 minutes a week of physical activity than residents of neighborhoods without walkable features. • Vehicle accident rates are about four times lower in high-density Smart Growth concepts are incorporated into sucessful urban planning schemes.
Photo Credit: University of Miami School of Architecture, Olatunde
An Overview
urban neighborhoods than in lower-
structure are the building blocks of
density suburbs.
our towns and cities. They are also the foundation of a strong integrated
• Compact development generates
sustainability agenda that can meet
three times less storm water runoff
our climate change challenge.
per household than low-density
Today, America’s most visible contri-
development does.
low-density residential developments
temperatures by 5 degrees. • An estimated 7% of regional and sub-regional malls in the U.S. are grayfields and a further 12% are approaching grayfield status. • Two popular traffic calming mea-
interspersed by isolated commercial • New municipal revenue streams from sustainable energy production; • Better use of taxpayer money and stronger municipal fiscal performance
centers surrounded by parking lots, all connected by a vast road network congested with vehicles driven longer and longer distances. Road-based
Photo Credit: Delray Beach DMC
bution to climate change is extensive,
• Trees can reduce local ambient
sures are traffic circles, which are raised islands in the centers of intersections, and chicanes. These two measures reduce collision frequency by about 80%.
CLIMATE PLAN In addition to reducing the longterm risk of climate impacts, the multiple benefits of a strong climate plan include: • Lower energy costs through efficiency and conservation in residential
through more strategic infrastructure
and commercial buildings.
investment.
One of the Goals of Delray Beach’s Award Winning Master Plan was the reinvigoration of the Pineapple Grove Arts District.
• Reduced health costs and improved
• Economic development and job
air quality through reduced fossil fuel
transportation, from passenger vehi-
creation in growth industries.
cles to freight trucks, accounts for
• Greater economic resilience in a
one-third of U.S. emissions, and is
use. • Enhanced livability, less traffic congestion, and more active lifestyles from smart growth neighborhoods.
world with steadily rising oil prices. Buildings, neighborhoods and infra-
growing faster than any other source. Conventional urban design is fueling much of this growth.
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An Overview Recommendations by Environmental Category
supply and convenience but also as
es, ferns, shrubs and trees—absorb
a finite resource, a source of revenue
the excess water, and through the
Sustainable
and as an opportunity to improve
process of transpiration return water
current systems and design. Parking
vapor into the atmosphere. A more
lots, whether surface or structured,
wide-ranging definition covers all the
are expensive, contribute to water pol-
possible elements that can be used to
lution, run off, and the heat island
capture, channel, divert, and make
effect. Indirectly, they contribute to
the most of the natural rain and
air pollution by promoting driving,
snow that falls on a property.
Urban Planning
& Design Across the country local govern-
ments are demonstrating smart green neighborhood planning can reduce automobile dependence and increase community livability. Portland, Oregon, is one of the few local governments in North America within reach of returning to 1990
contribute to dead zones, and are ugly no matter how well designed.
IMPERVIOUS SURFACES
created in the earth to accept and convey stormwater runoff. A bioswale uses natural means, including vegetation and soil, to treat storm-
emission levels. This success is large-
Use of impervious surfaces should
water by filtering out contaminants
ly attributed to policies that sup-
be discontinued through the use
being conveyed in the water.
port the development of complete
of Green Parking Programs, Green
neighborhoods that include schools,
Roofs, and other methods. These
work and commercial and residential
inevitably leading to zero run off from
activity. This design enables walking,
roofs and pavements.
biking, or transit use rather than just
GREEN ALLEYS & GREEN STREETS Chicago’s Green Alley Program incorporates Stormwater
Closer to home, Boca Raton, FL
RAIN GARDENS & BIOSWALES
has incorporated a Multi-modal
A rain garden is a planted depression
Conservation and Glare Reduction.
Transportation District (MMTD)
that is designed to take all, or as much
into their planning.
as possible, of the excess rainwater
RECOMMENDATIONS
automobile mobility.
PARKING Parking in the City should be evaluated from not just a standpoint of 108
A bioswale is a shallow depression
Management, Heat Reduction, Material Recycling, Energy
run-off from a house or other build-
“Easy Win” recommendation for
ing and its associated landscape.
Delray include becoming an “eco-
The plants—a selection of wetland edge vegetation, such as sedges, rush-
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municipality”, meaning that the City would use the Natural Step
Framework as a guide to sustainabil-
Development, promoting Walking/
ity and develop a sustainability action
Biking, creating a Roundabout
plan. In addition to the other bene-
at Atlantic Avenue and I-95,
fits afforded an eco-municipality, use
creating and promoting Green
the eco-municipality designation as a
Neighborhoods. Additionally, pro-
means of proclaiming Delray Beach’s
moting Bicycling should be promot-
vision for sustainability.
ed through a Comprehensive Plan for recreational riders & commuters:
As part of the plan, P&Z is to devel-
promoting Lane Sharing and Safe
op and apply a sustainable land use checklist and develop and implement a Sustainable Land Use/Planning and
The Proposed Atlantic Plaza Redevelopment is planned to be constructed LEED standards
Zoning Action Plan. This includes
Routes, increased bicycle parking and facilities by adopting minimum bicycle parking standards and design
removing obstacles and barriers that discourage or prevent sustainable land use practices in Delray Beach and providing incentives to encourage sustainable land use practices. Appropriate ordinances and regulations must be enacted to ensure susPhoto Credit: Delray Beach Planning
tainable land use practices. In addition, the following measures should be encouraged: Promoting environmentally-friendly landscaping, encouraging rainwater harvesting, protecting existing trees, encouraging cool roofs, green roofs, cool pavements, shade trees, and encouraging
tive energy sources like wind and
criteria that are tailored to the needs
pervious pavements.
solar.
of particular land uses.
Parking and its approach should be
“Longer term green initiatives”
In an effort to promote the long
re-evaluated from not just a stand-
include creating a Green Business
term economic sustainability of
point of supply and convenience but
Overlay Zone, developing a Multi-
Delray Beach, zoning downtown
also as a finite resource, a source of
Modal Transportation Districe
should be evaluated for promotion
revenue, and as an opportunity to
(MMTD) similar to Boca Raton,
and encouragement of mover diverse
improve current systems and design.
promoting the MROC District
types of businesses supported by
as a true TOD (Transit Oriented
local and year ‘round residents.
The City should encourage alterna-
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An Overview
Water Efficiency
&Conservation INTRODUCTION
The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) is the regulatory agency that manages
treatment plant, wells, water towers, reservoirs and lift stations account for approximately 25% of the CO2 emissions within a City. Street lighting accounts for approximately 20% and transportation fuels accounts for approximately 15% of the CO2 emissions.
“QUICK WINS”
According to the SFWMD, outdoor
EASILY IMPLEMENTED GREEN RECOMMENDATIONS
irrigation accounts for up to 50 per-
A much more Detailed
cent of water use in Florida , and up
Discussion of each of these
to 50 percent of the water applied to
ideas can be found in
lawns is lost to evapotranspiration.
CHAPTER 12.
the water resources in South Florida.
Water conservation can cost as little as 6 cents to 72 cents per 1,000 gallons of water saved, while the cost of constructing alternative water supply facilities can range from $5 to $7 per 1,000 gallons of water created. Water and wastewater facili-
#1. Paint the interior of a parking garage white as part of routine maintenance to maximize lighting efficiency. By painting the interior of a parking garage white as part of routine maintenance,
ties in average are the second highest
turning off one half of the
consumer of energy and producer
lights and dimming the rest,
of green house gases compared with
Saint Louis County, MN
other facilities within the City.
saved $20 000 on its energy
Typically, water and wastewater 110
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bill in one year with very little cost.
#2. Install high efficiency lighting (LED) for street lights and for exit lights in municipal buildings. Anchorage, Alaska in conjunction with a LED street light manufacturer, will replace 16,000 light fixtures, about one-fourth of the streetlights The Ocean is integral to Delray Beach’s identity, and protecting it from polution is one of Delray’s top priorities.
Photo Credit This & Facing Page: Delray Beach DMC
Recommendations by Environmental Category
in town, with LEDs. The swap
improve their fleets by using envi-
should save the city about $360,000
ronmentally friendly vehicles and
a year in electricity, judging by cur-
fuels to improve air quality. These efforts support community sustain-
rent prices. The city will likely save
ability by reducing air pollution and
a similar amount of money in lower
conserving non-renewable energy
maintenance costs. LEDs last lon-
resources.
ger than traditional sodium lights so fewer maintenance crews are
#3. Re-evaluate water billing to
required.
increase the tier rate structure to possibly reduce consumption increment
#3. Enhancement of water quality
target. Performing an energy audit by
of natural water bodies by preventing
range to account for smaller users
an ESCO, performing audit of cur-
and to have the means to assess high-
grass clippings and small particulate
rent energy use and identify specific
er charges to very large consumers,
debris from lawn mowing operations
enhancements and projects to the
by creating a conservation sensitive
to be blown into the road and
facilities that will maximize energy
water rate structure. Water utilities
be carried by storm water runoff.
can reduce per capita water use and
Enforce landscaping operations to
maintain revenues by using water-
collect and bag clippings.
conserving rate structures. Fixed charges do not encourage conservation. Utilities can lower water
LONGER TERM GREEN INITIATIVES
use by lowering fixed charges and increasing charges based on how
VALUABLE IDEAS THAT REQUIRE A GREATER AMOUNT OF TIME OR FINANCIAL RESOURCES
much is used. Customers need more pricing and water use information included on the bill, such as how
#1. Perform an energy audit
their use compares to the utility’s
on water and waste water facili-
average residential use. Water use
ties and all other City facilities to
decreases with increases in water
assess the current green house gases (GHG) emissions level, establish
savings improvements.
GHG reduction target and associ-
#2. Convert shuttle and
ated timeline and establish facilities’
Roundabout to alternative fuel
improvements to attain the estab-
vehicles and utilize an open-air rub-
lished goals of reducing energy con-
ber wheel trolley. Governments and
sumption to attain GHG reduction
private organizations are working to
price. The decreases are predictable and statistically valid. Water has always been a precious resource, and will gain even more importance in the future.
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An Overview
Green Building Building Efficiency
& Greenhouse
Gas
Reduction
green initiatives, organized by all of
Broad Categories of Benefit to the
the Departments a City or County
Owners and Occupants of Buildings,
might have. We assigned a numerical
again according to the USGBC -
score of relative cost and relatively
““Environmental benefits: (Improved
difficulty level to each of the items
Air & Water Quality, etc),
on the checklist and multiplied the
Economic benefits: (Reduced operating costs, etc.) & Health and community benefits: (Improved indoor air quality, lower
INTRODUCTION
strain on local infrastructure, etc.)”
According to the U.S. Green
“QUICK WINS”
Building Council (USGBC) “In the United States alone, buildings account for: 72% of electricity consumption, 39% of energy use, 38% of all carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, 40% of raw materials use, 30% of waste output (136 million tons annually), and 14% of potable water consumption.”
EASILY IMPLEMENTED RECOMMENDATIONS A much more Detailed Discussion of each of these ideas can be found in CHAPTER 9.
#1 Become certified as a “Florida Green Building Coalition Green Local Government” The City committed in 2007
In Florida, the situation is exac-
to pursing certification and
erbated by it’s Hot & Humid
the Green Task Force invested
Climate which creates demand for
many months digesting and
Air Conditioning, and consequently
categorizing what is essentially
Florida has one of the highest per-
a huge checklist of potential
household consumption of electricity in the United States.
112
Green Buildings Provide Three
Village Grande is an example of Infill Development, which by its nature reduces auto dependancy & thus GHG production.
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two to arrive at a score with a range of “0” (already done) to “1” (easy and affordable) to “12” (expensive and challenging to implement). THE BOTTOM LINE is that we believe Delray Beach can achieve a “GOLD” certification level in fairly short order if a Staff member is assigned to fol-
Photo Credit: Delray Beach DMC
Recommendations by Environmental Category
low thru on the recommended list
that will continue to pay dividends
and gather the required documenta-
for years into the future.
tion, etc. Please see the APPENDIX
#2. By Proclamation Adopt LEED Silver as the Official Goal for all New Municipal Buildings & Substantial Renovations.
#5. By Proclamation Require “Green Benchmarking” for all New Private Buildings & Substantial Renovations. The result is an easily interpreted VISUAL scale of the relative Green Merits of the building or home without explicitly mandating a certain level of performance.
The State of Florida is going to
A Graphical Form, analogous to
CHECKLIST”
require all municipal buildings to be
quently moving to all city owned facilities.
the Yellow “Energy Guide” sticker
beginning in 2009, so the incremen-
SEE Chapter 12, Page 12-4 for the
tal additional cost to achieve a Silver
suggested list of 10 Items. These Fast
would be posted in model homes
Certification level will be minimal,
and Easy Retrofits should each pay
but the Economic, Health, and
for themselves in 3-6 years, making
Environmental Benefits will accrue
them a great investment for the city,
constructed to LEED certified level,
required on all new appliances,
Photo Credit: Perez Design, Inc.
section titled “FGBC MASTER
and given to prospective tenants. For Latitude Delray in a Mixed Use Project located at the former site of a delapidated trailer park-a dramatic improvement....
for the life of each building constructed.
#3. By Proclamation Adopt LEED for Existing Buildings as the Official Goal all City Buildings, starting with City Hall. This program brings many of the benefits of green practices to the Day-to-Day operational & maintenance practices of Existing Municipal Buildings.
#4. By Proclamation Adopt a Goal of Implementing a “Quick Win” Group of Energy Efficiency Measures, (i.e. High ROI) starting with City Hall and subse-
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Green Building Building Efficiency
& Greenhouse Reduction Gas A Graphical Form, analogous to the Yellow “Energy Guide” sticker required on new appliances, would
By developing simple, standardized,
A Green Award Program allows
of these technologies can be “jump-
for the opportunity to Promote
started”. These Systems offer a good
Green Building in Delray Beach and
aftertax investment + Hot Water &
Reward those doing an exemplary job
Electric in the event of a hurricane.
in Delray Beach
#9. Require “Energy Star” Appliances as part of the Building Permit Submission Process for Single Family & Multi-Family Residential Projects and Applicable Commercial Projects. Requiring “Energy Star” Appliances
given to prospective tenants. For a
is a simple and “painless” way for
Mockup SEE Chap 9, Section 9.3 (5).
Homeowners and Building Owners
#6. Create a Series of Informative “Green Building Basics” Brochures to Describe and Promote the City’s Green Initiatives and How Residents and Builders can “Build Green” in Short, Easily Digestible, Monographs.
to save on operational costs, while the
able at the Building Department permit counter & for download via www.SustainableDelray.org.
#7. Create a Series of Informative “Green Building & Recycling Basics” Brochures for Kids to Describe and Promote Green Building & Proper Recycling among School Age Kids.
pre-approved designs which can be permitted in one day and charging a $0 permit fee, widespread adoption
of designing and building Green here
be posted in model homes &
These useful guides would be avail-
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#8. Create a Yearly “Green Building Award” Program to Award the Best Green Building Project undertaken in Delray Beach in the Prior Year.
community gains a reduced carbon footprint and water use profile going
LONGER TERM GREEN INITIATIVES VALUABLE IDEAS THAT REQUIRE A GREATER AMOUNT OF TIME OR FINANCIAL RESOURCES #1. By Proclamation Adopt LEED Platinum as the Official Goal for at Least ONE New Municipal Building, such as the Western Community Center. Green Residences can be certified by Three primary avenues; FGBC, LEED-H, and NAHB Green Programs.
forward.
#10. Encourage the Installation of “Solar Water Heaters & Micro Scale Photovoltaic Electric Systems” on Single Family & Multi-Family Residential Buildings and Applicable Commercial Buildings.
2008 * T h e D e l r a y B e a c h G r e e n T a s k Fo r c e F i n a l Re p o r t
Photo/Image Credit: www.sloandesign.biz
Recommendations by Environmental Category
Benefits would include National Recognition and obvious National Public Relations Value, and will put Delray Beach “On the Map” as being on the Forefront of Green Building on a National Basis. This inturn would be invaluable in attracting the type of Clean and Green Light Industry and Service Businesses which will help to further diversify
Concurrently, the City would reap the benefits of a World Class Green Building, including Substantial Operational Savings, etc.
#2. By Proclamation Adopt LEED Platinum as the Official Goal for at Least ONE New City Supported Residential Building Project, such as the upcoming Restoration of the “Franklin House” by the Delray Beach Preservation Trust. The benefits of this type of proj-
The Ordinance would Support and Stimulate Green Building by Providing Incentives via:
Settlers Historic District, a valuable learning tool for local school children to learn about green building dur-
As the USGBC says, Green Building offers a “Triple Win”:
*Expedited Permitting, Lower or
Environmental benefits, Economic
No Permit Fees on a sliding scale,
benefits, and Health & community
*Density Bonuses *Setting up an
benefits. If Delray Beach establishes a
Annual Green Awards Program.
supportive framework and “Leads by
A “Rough Draft” of the pro-
Example” in Green Building, as sug-
posed ordinance is included in the
gested in this Report, it can reap all
Appendix Section F.7, of the Full
of these categories of benefits simul-
Report.
taneously. Because buildings have a long useful life, as new buildings are
ect are multiple: a valuable historic resource is preserved for the West
SUMMARY
Delray Beach’s Famous Colony Hotel, a centerpiece of the downtown, illustrates that Historic Preservation is linked to Green Building- sometimes the Greenest Building is the one you Don’t Build.
constructed and old buildings are rebuilt or replaced, these benefits will compound over time and accrue to
ing its construction, and finally this project has the potential for national positive public relations value for the
Photo Credit: Delray Beach DMC
our local economic base.
City.
#3. Adopt a “Green Building Ordinance” to formalize many of the Items described in the “Quick Wins” Section above.
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An Overview Recommendations by Environmental Category
transit alternatives. In short,
Trans-
we should explore ways to
Transportation Efficiency
*Market and expand down-
overcome strong resistance to
Portation Gas
Reduction
utilizing public transportation.
voluntary. They include regulation (most restrictive), economic incentives, and education (least restrictive).
INTRODUCTION
“QUICK WINS”
“Embracing public transportation at
Research has pointed out that due to
the local level is an important first
increases in vehicle miles traveled; the
step towards energy independence
pollution from vehicle emissions is
and protecting the environment”.
accelerating. According to the APTA,
This is according to American Public
Greenhouse Gas Emissions from
Transportation Association (APTA).
mobile sources grew 27% from 1990
Here in Florida, the Transportation
In order to
Dioxide emissions and 20% of high-
combat this
way fuel consumption. Other green-
trend, we need
house gases from the transportation
to promote
sector, such at methane, nitrous
sustainable
oxide and hydroflorocarbons, consti-
transportation
tute significant metric tons of carbon
systems. It is
equivalent each year.
important to
approaches to reaching our goals; they range from mandatory to
west if I-95 that are not currently being adequately serviced. * Require the Downtown Shuttle to use alternative fuels. * Promote the use of the Downtown Shuttle for both employee and patrons for the businesses located on its route. (Address potential schedule and route issues)
to 2004.
Sector accounts for 33% of Carbon
There are three basic strategic
town shuttle service to areas
create educational and public information about different
2008 * T h e D e l r a y B e a c h G r e e n T a s k Fo r c e F i n a l Re p o r t
In Toronto, Advertising supported Free Pedicabs with Electric Assist (www.eco-cab.ca)
Photo Credit: www.eco-cab.ca
& Greenhouse
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Pininfarina Nido Concept Electric Vehicle by the world famous auto stylist.
* Provide incentives for purchas-
are motor vehicles sales tax, parking
ing and parking for alternative fuel
permit fees, fuel surcharges, discount
vehicles.
mass transit, and preferential parking for hybrid & electric vehicles.
* Make Tri-Rail and Palm Tran attractive alternatives for commuting
* Perform a baseline emissions inven-
city employees. Provide discounted
tory and forecast using ICLEI’s mod-
or no pay programs.
eling software. Adopt an emissions reduction target for the forecast year
According to the EPA “If one
and then develop a local action plan
household’s driver gives up the second car and switches to public
identified in chapters 7 & 8. “Police
to meet the desired goals.
transit, a household can reduce it’s
and Fire Departments” in the full
* Evaluate traffic engineering design
carbon emissions up to 30%.
report. Consider these changes
and flow to increase efficiency of
to increase fleet fuel efficiency
traffic flow through light synchro-
and reduce of Greenhouse Gas
nization. Install roundabouts as
* Educate the public with the state mandated no idling policy for city vehicles, corporations, and consumer markets. Two examples would be delivery trucks, school drop off, and pick-up locations. * Increase bicycle security at parks and recreational facilities. * Continue to replace transportation fleets of different departments with alternative fuel and/or hybrid vehicles. * Modify existing vehicles to run on flex fuel options. * Encourage carpooling between city facilities whenever possible
Emissions. * Increase the use of telecommuting where possible, to reduce travel to designated
Photo Credit: en.wikipedia.org
*Make downtown areas cyclist friendly.
places for meetings.
LONGER TERM INITIATIVES * Work with city planners to incorporate safe bike/walk paths, encourage the use of these paths to destinations such as schools, churches, and neighbor oriented shopping and dining experiences. * Lobby Federal, State, and County
BMW Isetta 300, built in 1956 for the european market, achieved a remarkable 50+ MPG.
opposed to stop signs to alleviate repeated stops and starts, which wastes fuel.
CONCLUSION
Governments to craft legislation
According to the APTA, “Embracing
* Consider a four (4) day flextime
containing both tax incentives and
public transportation at the local
workweek for departments that may
consumption tax increases to prompt
level in the first step toward emer-
meet this type of change.
lower fuel consumption in the trans-
gency independence and protecting
portation sector. Some examples
the environment”.
* Make changes in vehicle usage as
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City of Delray Beach Green Task Force Report
An Overview Recommendations by Environmental Category
Green
Purchasing
by the US Green Building Council:
* Items made with at least 50%
LEED for Existing Buildings and
“rapidly renewable” materials such as
LEED for Commercial Interiors.
bamboo or agricultural crops
#2. Establish a Green Office
* Rechargeable batteries
Products Purchasing policy and start tracking/reporting on green purchasing of office supplies:
The goal of Green Purchasing is to promote procurement of goods and services with lower environmental impact. While “greener” products have historically been perceived as being more costly than standard products, this is not necessarily the case. There are numerous examples of cities and counties enacting green purchasing policies that result in overall cost-reduction. The Delray Beach Green Task Force recommends that the fol-
The City’s green purchasing copy paper, envelopes and pads, filing, binders, mailing supplies, desk accessories, dated goods, ink & toner cartridges and batteries. When making office supplies purchases, encourage City staff in all departments to
track/report on green purchasing of technology. The City’s green purchasing policy for technology can cover desktops, laptops, monitors, printers, fax machines, scanners, refrigerators, dishwashers, external power adaptors, televisions, AV equipment.
seek products that meet one or more
When making technology purchases,
of the following specifications:
encourage City staff in all depart-
* Minimum 30% post consumer recycled for copy paper * Minimum 10% post-consumer
allocate the City’s purchasing dollars
recycled content and/or 20% total
towards more sustainable consump-
recycled content where feasible for all
tion:
other paper, plastic and metal office supplies
Council’s sustainable purchasing
* Remanufactured ink and toner car-
guidelines, as defined in two LEED
tridges
rating systems (Leadership in Energy
* Virgin paper products with fiber
& Environmental Design) created
from FSC-certified “responsibly-managed forests”
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Technology Purchasing Policy and
policy for office supplies can cover
lowing guidelines be established to
#1. Adopt the U.S. Green Building
#3. Establish a Green Office
2008 * T h e D e l r a y B e a c h G r e e n T a s k Fo r c e F i n a l Re p o r t
ments to seek products that meet one or more of the following specifications:
FP&L is one of the Largest Owners of Wind Power InstallationsComing Soon to Juno Beach?
* ENERGY STAR Qualified (see www.energystar.gov) and/or * EPEAT-registered (Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool, see www.epeat.net)
The City’s green purchasing policy for cleaning products can cover all purpose cleaners, bathroom cleaners, glass cleaners, carpet cleaners, disinfectants, degreasing compounds, upholstery care, metal
#4. Establish a Green Office
polish, odor control, floor finishes,
Furniture Purchasing Policy and
strippers, trash can liners, paper
track/report on green purchasing of
towels, napkins, tissue paper, hand
furniture.
towels, hand soaps. When making
commercial lighting applications. Switching to CFLs and T5/T8 lights will dramatically reduce the City’s expenditure on electricity while reducing maintenance costs related to replacing bulbs. A lighting retrofit of this type will also significantly help reduce the City’s overall carbon emissions.
cleaning and janitorial purchases,
#7. Implement source reduction
encourage buyers to seek products
practices to help reduce upward pres-
that meet Green Seal or EcoLogo
sure on the City’s overall procure-
certifications.
ment budget.
purchases, encourage City staff to
#6. Purchase Compact Fluorescent
Examples include:
seek furniture products that meet one
Light-bulbs to replace all incandes-
The City’s green purchasing policy for furniture can cover chairs, desks, shelving, filing, systems furniture, etc. When making furniture
or more of the following specifica-
* Buy in bulk to lower unit costs, reduce packaging of individual ship-
tions:
ments, and to lower the carbon foot-
* At least 10% post-consumer recy-
print of shipping
cled (PCR) content and/or 20% total
* Buy durable and reusable products
recycled (TR) content
such as reusable mugs and water
* Made from at least 50% Forest
bottles instead of disposable options
Stewardship Council (FSC-certified)
– helping save money through avoid-
wood
ed re-purchase
* Made with at least 50% “rapidly
* Implement source-reduction
renewable” materials such as bamboo
practices to reduce paper use such
or agricultural crops
as using double-sided printing and
* GREENGUARD certified
electronic document management
* SCS Indoor Advantage Certified
– helping to save money and forest
#5. Establish a Green Cleaning Purchasing Policy and track/report on green purchasing of cleaning supplies.
cent bulbs in City operations and
Compact Flouresent Bulbs Can Pay for Themselves in short orderespecially when purchased in bulk.
T5 or T8 energy efficient lights for
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An Overview Recommendations by Environmental Category
Waste Reduction
&Recycling
Create a Series of Informative
from the City’s Website or www.
“Green Building & Recycling
SustainableDelray.org site by area
Basics” Brochures for Kids to
Teachers.
Describe and Promote Green
* This was the 5th Highest Rated
Building & Proper Recycling among
idea by Citizen Participants at our October 4, 2008 Public Input
Delray Beach residents already do a
Session.
great job at participating in our recy-
The Intent/Rationale of
cling program- but there is always room for improvement! A consistent
this idea is to ‘Get the word out” to
theme we have heard while research-
Delray’s Smallest Residents about
ing Single Stream vs. Dual Stream
these topics, with the hope they will
Recycling to prepare a previous
tell their Parents what they learned at
report for the City Commission, is
school!
that residents are unsure What they Can and Can’t Recycle. To this end, Delray Beach has a very good participation rate by its residents.
we should create a easily understood Brochure for Residents, that explains exactly what can be and what can’t be recycled. This brochure should
School Age Kids.
be distributed to community groups,
* Implementation would require
new resident packets from the
creating the Brochures and Printing
Chamber of Commerce, and mailed
a quantity for Distribution perhaps
out regularly with water bills (at least
by Litter Prevention & Community
annually)
Recycling Education Coordinator,
To address this same concern in another way, we should
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Ms. Jennifer Buce, when she speaks at Area Schools, and for Download
2008 * T h e D e l r a y B e a c h G r e e n T a s k Fo r c e F i n a l Re p o r t
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An Overview
Green
Economic
Development INTRODUCTION
122
needed tax incentives to help these
be involved in Green Business
firms establish a firm financial foot-
Activities. A Green Business Eco
ing.
Incubator should be linked to FAU, Florida Solar Energy Center, or the
CREATE A “GREEN ENTERPRISE ZONE” VIA AN OVERLAY ZONING DISTRICT The Congress Avenue Corridor might make an ideal home for a new
Green Economic Development
“Green Enterprise Zone”. This zone
involves BOTH Bringing New
would serve as a kind of “Green Eco-
“CleanTech” businesses to Delray
Incubator” for new businesses and
Beach and having a trained and
a home to established firms eager
available workforce to be hired
to expand into the Delray Beach
by these new businesses. It is
market. A zoning overlay district
important for the City to partner
could allow density bonuses, park-
with the Delray Beach Chamber
ing requirement reductions, 10 year
of Commerce, PB Business
Property Tax Abatements for a por-
Development Council, Palm Beach
tion of new or improved buildings
County, and the State of Florida.
and physical plant, a Low Interest
Areas to be jointly addressed include
Revolving Loan Fund to support
Economic Development (bringing
new promising venture (in concert
new employers to the area, incubat-
with Venture Capital Firms and
ing new businesses, and encourag-
other financial institutions). The new
ing local business to expand into
office/warehouse and Class A office
Green Businesses) and Jobs Training
buildings would both be required to
Programs. A new Green Enterprise
be built to LEED certified standards
Zone can create a synergistic home
(and actually certified) and to have
for these new businesses and provide
a minimum 75% of the Tenants
2008 * T h e D e l r a y B e a c h G r e e n T a s k Fo r c e F i n a l Re p o r t
University of Florida if possible and supported by a substantial Venture Capital firm.
ATTRACT NEW GREEN BUSINESSES TO LOCATE IN DELRAY BEACH THE CITY SHOULD PARTNER WITH THE DELRAY BEACH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, ET.A.L. The City can act as a Critical Substantial Customer for some of these new firms. For example, should the City commit to do Energy Efficiency and Water Efficiency Retrofits to all municipal buildings, “Greencollar” jobs have the potential to be a significant driver in Delray Beach’s future economic mix. A “Green Economic Zone” and other incentives can foster the rapid growth of this sector.
Photo Credit: Green-Collar Jobs Campaign- www.ellabakercenter.org
Recommendations by Environmental Category
SUMMARY
Locally based Green Contracting and Consulting Firms can be given
The present challenging environ-
preference in the bidding process to
ment is the perfect time to lay the
perform these retrofits.
groundwork for a new and diversi-
Additionally, a city staff member
fied green business base for the
can be assigned to act as a “Green
city. Diversifying the city from
Facilitator” to help new green firms
an over reliance on highly cyclical
locating to the Green Enterprise
Construction and Tourist related
Zone to “painlessly” obtain Building Permits, Occupational Licenses, etc., and to act as a Business Friendly one stop “welcome wagon” for these new firms.
Architects and Engineers to Solar Electric System Installers and a plethora of other rewarding technical support jobs.
industries will provide for a more stable economic base in the future. Workers Installing Photovoltaic Modules, which can provide up to 30 years of virtually Maintenance Free electricity!
Delray Beach can also sponsor Photo Credit: Craig Miller Productions and U.S. Department of Energy
“Green Tech” Business Seminars, Trade Shows, Events, and Conferences. This would foster networking and cross pollination of local nascent green businesses and establish Delray Beach as a forward thinking center of Green Business on a local and state basis.
FOCUS ON BOTH GREEN PROFESSIONAL & GREENCOLLAR JOB TRAINING The City and County should partner on various Job Training Efforts. It is also critical that FAU and PBCC provide appropriate professional and certificate programs to support the staffing requirements of new green firms. These might range from T h e D e l r a y B e a c h G r e e n T a s k Fo r c e F i n a l Re p o r t * 2 0 0 8
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An Overview This Summary
Document Created by S LOAN
BUILDING
&
D E S I G N D E S I G N / B U I L D I NTERIOR D ESIGN www.SloanDesign.biz
If you have any questions concerning this document or the full Green Task Force Report please call or email Dan Sloan (561) 243-8755 dsloan@sloandesign.biz
(I will forward any questions I can’t answer to the author of the pertinent chapter)
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