12-142 Resolution No. 12-142
RESOLUTION
EXPRESSING SUPPORT OF THE ILLINOIS COOL CITIES
LOCAL SUSTAINABILITY PROTECTION AGREEMENT 2015 GOALS
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ELGIN, ILLINOIS,that
the City of Elgin, Illinois hereby expresses its support of the provisions of the Illinois Cool Cities
Local Sustainability Protection Agreement 2015 Goals, a copy of which is attached hereto.
s/David J. Kaptain
David J. Kaptain, Mayor
Presented: September 26, 2012
Adopted: September 26, 2012
Omnibus Vote: Yeas: 7 Nays: 0
Attest:
s/Kimberly Dewis
Kimberly Dewis, City Clerk
•
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•
SII
CLU( coo I cities
B
Solving Global Warming One City at a Time
Illinois Cool Cities Local Sustainability Protection Agreement
2015 Goals
A. We urge the federal government and state governments to enact
policies and programs to reduce the United States' dependence on
fossil fuels and accelerate the development of clean, economical energy
resources and fuel-efficient technologies such as conservation, methane
recovery for energy generation,wind and solar energy, fuel cells,and
electric and efficient motor vehicles;
B. We urge the U.S.Congress to pass bipartisan greenhouse gas reduction
legislation that 1) includes clear timetables and emissions limits and 2)
a flexible, market based system of tradable allowances among emitting
industries; and
C. We will strive to meet or exceed the target to reduce climate change
pollution by 2%per year from 2009 baseline levels (per capita)by
taking actions in our own operations and communities such as:
1.Inventory
• Inventory baseline energy metrics in City operations and in the
community and set reduction targets.
2.Plan
• Create an action plan for city operations and community.
3.Implement
In addition to the 2012 goals set forth by the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection
Agreement,consider the following energy saving measures.
• Encourage residents to take advantage of energy efficiency measures
in their own homes by using free tools such as the CUB Energy Saver
program (www.cubenergysaver.com/teams/sierraclub) or the Energy
Impact program (www.energyimpactillinois.org) to identify energy
and money saving measures.
• Endorse Complete Streets and Bicycle Friendly Community measures
to ensure safe environmentally friendly transit options.
• Become an EPA designated Green Power Community by sourcing a
portion of consumed energy from green sources.
• Aggregate the community's energy consumption to provide a green
option for residents,often at lower cost than traditional dirty energy.
Communities are encouraged to first seek out locally generated
renewable energy.
• Engage in sustainable waste management practices by prioritizing
recycling,composting,and construction/deconstruction diversion
programs over traditional landfill waste disposal.
• Support policies that make the grid accessible to clean energy.
• Implement incentives and policies to encourage electric vehicle
infrastructure and use,with an emphasis on renewable source
charging.
• Encourage local food production and consumption through farmer's
markets,co-ops,urban agriculture,community kitchens and community
gardens.
• Educate residents on energy saving measures available at home and
throughout the community through events and outreach.
• Issue a resolution to support the Environmental Protection Agency's
Clean Air Act protections to reduce pollution and protect public health
• Support funding mechanisms,like the PACE program (property
assessed clean energy),that remove cost barriers for clean energy and
energy efficiency installations
4.Monitor and Evaluate
• Create a webpage to update city residents on the progress of action plan
and encourage engagement in energy saving activities.
2012 goals set forth by the U.S.Mayors Climate Protection Agreement
-Adopt and enforce land-use policies that reduce sprawl,preserve open
space,and create compact,walkable urban communities;
- Promote transportation options such as bicycle trails, commute trip
reduction programs, incentives for car pooling and public transit;
- Increase the use of clean,alternative energy by,for example, investing in
"green tags",advocating for the development of renewable energy resources,
recovering landfill methane for energy production,and supporting the use of
waste to energy technology;
- Make energy efficiency a priority through building code improvements,
retrofitting city facilities with energy efficient lighting and urging employees
to conserve energy and save money;
- Purchase only Energy Star equipment and appliances for City use;
- Practice and promote sustainable building practices using the U.S. Green
Building Council's LEED program or a similar system;
- Increase the average fuel efficiency of municipal fleet vehicles; reduce the
number of vehicles; launch an employee education program including anti-
idling messages; convert diesel vehicles to bio-diesel;
- Evaluate opportunities to increase pump efficiency in water and
wastewater systems; recover wastewater treatment methane for energy
production;
- Increase recycling rates in City operations and in the community;
- Maintain healthy urban forests; promote tree planting to increase shading
and to absorb CO2; and
- Help educate the public,schools,other jurisdictions,professional
associations,business and industry about reducing global warming pollution
V t
c,..,c,.., coo l aties
Solving Global Warming One City at a Time
The Illinois Cool Cities Local Sustainability Protection Agreement
Signature Page
You have my support for the Cool Cities Local Sustainability Protection Agreement
Date: 9-26-2012
Mayor:
David J. . .p ain ,
Signature: /� •
Address: 150 Dexter Court
City: Elgin State: IL Zip: 60120
Mayor's e-mail: mayor@cityofelgin.org
Staff Contact Assigned to Implement Agreement: Aaron Cosentino
Staff Contact Title: Management Analyst
Staff Phone: (847) 214-5861
Staff e-mail: cosentino_a@cityofelgin.org
Please return completed form at your earliest convenience to:
Sierra Club,Illinois Chapter
Cool Cities Program
By Mail: sarah.gulezian@sierraclub.org
70 E Lake Street,Suite 1500 (312) 251-1680 x 117
Chicago, Illinois 60601
By Fax:
(312) 251-1780
For additional information,contact:
Sarah Gulezian
*EPORT TO MAYOR & MEMBERS OF CITY COUNCIL E LG I N
THE CITY IN THE SUBURBS-
AGENDA ITEM: B
MEETING DATE: September 12, 2012
ITEM:
Proposed Resolution in Support of Renewing the Illinois Cool Cities Local Sustainability Protec-
tion Agreement
(No Cost to the City)
OBJECTIVE:
Renew and document Elgin's commitment to environmental protection and stewardship.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt the proposed resolution in support of the Illinois Cool Cities Local Sustainability Protec-
tion Agreement.
BACKGROUND
In September 2007, the city council passed a resolution in support of the Sierra Club and United
States Conference of Mayors' Climate Protection Agreement. The agreement, informally known
as the Cool Cities agreement, charged communities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and
environmental impact. The original agreement set goals to be achieved by 2012. The Sierra Club
has since developed new goals for 2015 and requests the city renew the commitment made in
2007.
On August 14, 2012, Mayor Kaptain received a formal invitation from the Sierra Club to renew
the city's climate protection agreement. The request also invited Elgin to share their successes
during the Illinois Municipal League Conference, October 18-20 in Chicago.
OPERATIONAL ANALYSIS
The Illinois Cool Cities Local Sustainability Protection Agreement is attached and is summarized
as follows:
A. The agreement urges the federal and state governments to enact policies and pro-
grams to reduce the United States' dependence on fossil fuels and accelerate the
development of clean, economical energy resources and fuel efficient technology
such as conservation, methane recovery for energy generation, waste to energy,
wind and solar energy, fuel cells, efficient motor vehicles, and bio-fuels.
B. The agreement urges the U.S. Congress to pass bipartisan greenhouse gas reduction
legislation that includes 1) clear timetables and emissions limits, and 2) a flexible,
market-based system of tradable allowances among emitting industries; and
C. The agreement strives to meet or exceed the target to reduce climate change pollu-
tion by two percent per year from 2009 baseline levels (per capita) through several
actions.
Many of the actions identified in the agreement Elgin has either completed or undertaken, in-
cluding:
• Encourage residents to take advantage of energy efficiency measure in their own
home.
• Endorse Complete Streets and bicycle friendly community measures to ensure safe
transit options.
• Aggregate the city's energy consumption to provide a green option for residents.
• Engage in sustainable waste management practices by prioritizing recycling, com-
posting and landfill diversion.
• Implement incentives and policies to encourage electric vehicle infrastructure and
use.
• Encourage local food production and consumption through farmers markets, co-ops,
urban agriculture, community kitchens and community gardens.
• Create a webpage to update the city's residents on the progress of the action plan
and encourage engagement in energy saving activities.
Of actions taken, the council's choice to provide 100 percent renewable energy through electric
aggregation has made the largest environmental impact. Using 2005 greenhouse gas emissions
data, the local chapter of the Sierra Club estimates that aggregation will reduce Elgin's green-
house gas emissions by 269,713 metric tons of CO2 equivalent. This exceeds the seven percent
reduction goal set forth by the original climate protection agreement signed in 2007.
For additional information on Elgin's sustainability initiatives, please see the attached Sustaina-
bility Action Plan Implementation Report, Fall 2012.
INTERESTED PERSONS CONTACTED
The Sustainability Commission reviewed the agreement at its August 14 meeting and unani-
mously recommends adopting a supporting resolution. The local chapter of the Sierra Club has
also contacted the city requesting a supporting resolution.
2
FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
There is no cost to the city to adopt a resolution in support of the Illinois Cool Cities Local Sus-
tainability Protection Agreement. The city's Sustainability Commission will continue its mission
by finding creative and financially conservative ways to implement the recommendations with
the city's Sustainability Action Plan and reduce the city of Elgin's impact on the environment.
BUDGET IMPACT
FUND(S) ACCOUNT(S) PROJECT#(S) AMOUNT AMOUNT
BUDGETED AVAILABLE
N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
LEGAL IMPACT
None.
ALTERNATIVES
The city council may choose not to adopt a resolution in support of the agreement.
NEXT STEPS
Submit resolution and signed agreement to Sierra Club.
Originators: Aaron Cosentino, Management Analyst
Final Review: Colleen Lavery, Chief Financial Officer
William A. Cogley, Corporation Counsel/Chief Development Officer
Richard G. Kozal, Assistant City Manager/Chief Operating Officer
Sean R. Stegall, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS
A. Illinois Cool Cities Local Sustainability Protection Agreement
B. Proposed Resolution
C. Elgin Sustainability Action Plan Implementation Report, Fall 2012
Ji►
S RRA coolcaties
„ NA0•4-="
Solving Global Warming One City at a Time
Illinois Cool Cities Local Sustainability Protection Agreement
2015 Goals
A. We urge the federal government and state governments to enact
policies and programs to reduce the United States ' dependence on
fossil fuels and accelerate the development of clean, economical energy
resources and fuel-efficient technologies such as conservation, methane
recovery for energy generation,wind and solar energy, fuel cells, and
electric and efficient motor vehicles;
B. We urge the U.S. Congress to pass bipartisan greenhouse gas reduction
legislation that 1) includes clear timetables and emissions limits and 2)
a flexible, market based system of tradable allowances among emitting
industries; and
C. We will strive to meet or exceed the target to reduce climate change
pollution by 2% per year from 2009 baseline levels (per capita) by
taking actions in our own operations and communities such as:
1. Inventory
• Inventory baseline energy metrics in City operations and in the
community and set reduction targets.
2. Plan
• Create an action plan for city operations and community.
3. Implement
In addition to the 2012 goals set forth by the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection
Agreement, consider the following energy saving measures.
• Encourage residents to take advantage of energy efficiency measures
in their own homes by using free tools such as the CUB Energy Saver
program (www.cubenergysaver.com/teams/sierraclub) or the Energy
Impact program (www.energyimpactillinois.org) to identify energy
and money saving measures.
• Endorse Complete Streets and Bicycle Friendly Community measures
to ensure safe environmentally friendly transit options.
• Become an EPA designated Green Power Community by sourcing a
portion of consumed energy from green sources.
• Aggregate the community's energy consumption to provide a green
option for residents, often at lower cost than traditional dirty energy.
Communities are encouraged to first seek out locally generated
renewable energy.
• Engage in sustainable waste management practices by prioritizing
recycling, composting, and construction/deconstruction diversion
programs over traditional landfill waste disposal.
• Support policies that make the grid accessible to clean energy.
• Implement incentives and policies to encourage electric vehicle
ll."‘ infrastructure and use,with an emphasis on renewable source
charging.
• Encourage local food production and consumption through farmer's
markets, co-ops, urban agriculture, community kitchens and community
gardens.
• Educate residents on energy saving measures available at home and
throughout the community through events and outreach.
• Issue a resolution to support the Environmental Protection Agency's
Clean Air Act protections to reduce pollution and protect public health
• Support funding mechanisms, like the PACE program (property
assessed clean energy),that remove cost barriers for clean energy and
energy efficiency installations
4. Monitor and Evaluate
• Create a webpage to update city residents on the progress of action plan
and encourage engagement in energy saving activities.
2012 goals set forth by the U.S.Mayors Climate Protection Agreement
-Adopt and enforce land-use policies that reduce sprawl,preserve open
space, and create compact,walkable urban communities;
- Promote transportation options such as bicycle trails, commute trip
reduction programs, incentives for car pooling and public transit;
- Increase the use of clean, alternative energy by,for example, investing in
"green tags", advocating for the development of renewable energy resources,
recovering landfill methane for energy production, and supporting the use of
waste to energy technology;
- Make energy efficiency a priority through building code improvements,
retrofitting city facilities with energy efficient lighting and urging employees
to conserve energy and save money;
- Purchase only Energy Star equipment and appliances for City use;
- Practice and promote sustainable building practices using the U.S. Green
Building Council's LEED program or a similar system;
- Increase the average fuel efficiency of municipal fleet vehicles; reduce the
number of vehicles; launch an employee education program including anti-
idling messages; convert diesel vehicles to bio-diesel;
- Evaluate opportunities to increase pump efficiency in water and
wastewater systems; recover wastewater treatment methane for energy
production;
- Increase recycling rates in City operations and in the community;
- Maintain healthy urban forests; promote tree planting to increase shading
and to absorb CO2; and
- Help educate the public,schools, other jurisdictions, professional
associations,business and industry about reducing global warming pollution
vow
ra)
coo l cities
The Illinois Cool Cities Local Sustainability Protection Agreement
Signature Page
You have my support for the Cool Cities Local Sustainability Protection Agreement
Date:
Mayor:
Signature:
Address:
City: State: Zip:
Mayor's e-mail:
Staff Contact Assigned to Implement Agreement:
Staff Contact Title:
Staff Phone:
Staff e-mail:
Please return completed form at your earliest convenience to:
Sierra Club, Illinois Chapter
Cool Cities Program
By Mail: sarah.gulezian@sierraclub.org
70 E Lake Street, Suite 1500 (312) 251-1680 x 117
Chicago, Illinois 60601
By Fax:
(312) 251-1780
For additional information,contact:
Sarah Gulezian411)
Resolution No. I2-XXX
RESOLUTION
EXPRESSING SUPPORT FOR ILLINOIS COOL CITIES LOCAL SUSTAINABILITY
PROTECTION AGREEMENT
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ELGIN, ILLINOIS,
that the City of Elgin, Illinois hereby expresses its support of the provisions of the Illinois Cool
Cities Local Sustainability Protection Agreement, a copy of which is attached hereto.
s/David Kaptain
David Kaptain,Mayor
Presented: September 12,2012
Adopted: September 12,2012
Omnibus Vote: Yeas: Nays:
Attest:
s/Kim Dewis
Kim Dewis,City Clerk
C
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The city of Elgin's sustainability initiative has experienced many victories in 2012. With the
establishment of the Elgin Sustainability Commission, eight dedicated and motivated
members of the community set out on the daunting task of implementing Elgin's
Sustainability Action Plan.
SAVING ELGIN RESIDENTS MONEY
The first quarter of 2012 was dedicated towards preparing two new operational programs
as well as seven educational displays for Elgin Green Expo, May 4 and 5. The Expo - an
unqualified success with more than 4,000 visitors - saw the launch of Elgin Energy Efficiency
Resource Kit and Home Energy Savings Rebate Match programs. These programs not only
allowed Elgin residents to weatherize their homes but also were fully funded by left-over
Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) funds. This allowed the
commission to implement new initiatives without using their allocated funding.
SPREADING SUSTAINABILITY THROUGHOUT ELGIN
2012 marked the first year that the Neighborhood Improvement Grant Program was
administered by the Sustainability Commission. Seven applications were received and
awarded -the most in recent memory. The projects spanned several areas of
sustainability from stormwater management, to the history of the wind industry in Elgin. The
program saw both long- and short-term projects and offered the Commission the chance
to fund worthwhile projects that otherwise could not have happened.
LOOKING FORWARD TO PROGRAMS AND POLICIES
The Commission continues to look forward and plan for the final quarter of 2012 and 2013.
With a focus on education, the commission has begun to plan a partnership with the
Conservation Foundation to provide Mighty Acorns programming at the Hawthorne Hill
Nature Center.
The Commission remains focused on its long-term goals as well, namely pursuing a hydro-
electric dam at the Kimball Street Dam; implementing a residential curbside composting
program; completing a pedestrian bridge across the Fox River; and passing both a solar
and complete streets policy.
The Commission looks forward to continuing its mission by finding creative and financially
conservative ways to implement the recommendations with the city's Sustainability Action
Plan and reduce the city of Elgin's impact on the environment.
Sincerely,
Gary C. Masterson, Chairman Aaron Cosentino, Sustainability Coordinator
E LG I N SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN iMPLEMENTATION REPORT FALL 20
THE CITY IN THE SUBURBS
Addressed Goals and Objectives Jari. — Aug. 2072 3
IALTERNATIVE ENERGY GOAL I, OBJECTIVE 1
Organize a program to educate, citizens and businesses about the benefits of energy audits
to identify cosi effective ROI-based improvements that conserve energy.
/ Home Energy Savings Rebate Match Program
✓ Energy Efficiency Educational Banner
ALTERNATIVE ENERGY GOAL IV, OBJECTIVE 4
Continue research on alternative and renewable energies
✓ Renewable Energy Educational Banner
GREEN BUILDING TECHNOLOGY GOAL III, OBJECT 1
Offer subsidized energy audits to property owners
/ Home Energy Savings Rebate Match Program
GREEN BUILDING TECHNOLOGY GOAL IV, OBJECTIVE 4
Encourage home energy reduction and efficiency by distributing energy efficiency and
resource conservation kits.
/ Resource Conservation Kits
GREEN BUILDING TECHNOLOGY GOAL II, OBJECTIVE 3 s,',':.',','''!,.',-17,4,,,1,,'-".-'F:1.,, ,-;-,...i. 4 :r . » ' °`; ` ,
Provide Information to the local business and development community to assist them in
achieving their sustainable building and energy goals.
✓ Green Building Educational Banner
4
GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE GOAL II
i Reduce surface runoff
✓ Illinois Green Infrastructure Grant
4 ✓ Fountain Square Public Parking Lot Plantings
/ Country Brook Subdivision Native Plantings
/ Establishment of City No-Mow Zones ,-�� �� ,
✓ Sustainable Landscapes Educational Banner 4,x „ 7 s � :,
HEALTHY LIVING AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION GOAL I, OBJECTIVE `? -'..
Encourage the creation of a clearit:phouse for existing corrrncfnity groups , - %-e---01:--,
✓ Spearheaded by the Sierra Club and Elgin Climate Change Organization =- fy
a new group known as Elgin Green Groups was created. - i-',... , -.1 ;, .
SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION REPORT FALL 2012 E LG I N
THE CITY IN THE SUBURH5'
Addressed Goals and Objectives Jan. - Aug 2012, comp 4
HEALTHY LIVING AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION GOAL I, OBJECTIVE 4
Promote Healthy Eating Habits
✓ Boys and Girls Club Community Garden Lease
✓ Being a Green Kid Educational Banner
RECYCLING AND WASTE MANAGEMENT GOAL H. OBJECTIVE 6
Create a recycling booklet that instructs residents on what and where certain materials can
be recycled.
✓ Solid Waste Quick Guide (online)
RECYCLING AND WASTE MANAGEMENT GOAL Il
Encourage increased recycling, composting, source reduction and waste reduction in
residential properties
✓ Composting Educational Banner
URBAN DESIGN GOAL II, OBJECTIVE 1
Focus on the development of highly interconnected complete street/context sensitive
street network
✓ Complete Streets Policy Draft
✓ Bicycle Ease of Use Map
✓Complete Streets Educational Banner
E LG I N SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION REPORT FALL 2012
THE CITY IN THE SUBURBS
5.,,,rfcirtribility C " lzr '>'...« 5
The city of Elgin sustainability commission consists of nine members, six from the
community, and three staff members. Meeting monthly at 6 PM at the Centre of Elgin
West Conference Room, the commission has several responsibilities:
• Oversee the implementation of the Sustainability Action Plan.
• Review and award Neighborhood Improvement Grant Program.
• Hear presentations from businesses, advocacy groups, and other sustainability
related associations regarding opportunities for the city of Elgin.
• Recruit and maintain volunteers willing to help implement the recommendations
found within the sustainability plan.
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Pictured left to right: Commissioners Laura Knoerr, Toni Frazier, Todd Martin, Dave Segel, Ryan
Jacox, Staff Liaison Aaron Cosentino, April Anderson and Gary Masterson (Chairman); nott
pictured Mitch Jacobs
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SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION REPORT FALL 2012ELGIN
I`N
., <.. THE CITY IN THE SUBURBS
Home Energy Savings RebateMatch
444.,u<YR+i13444 *4,444414,44441,4 owe gMxr ax0,40,4,...^=e
Program
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Upon approval by the Elgin City Counci4.14""=,,, r4�P,„�.s• x `''�`" `
4.4
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and launched at the Elgin Green Expo (May . "*""' "ns mk xt s a c aa .uW+ss;
4 and 5, 2012), the city of Elgin Sustainability Benefits include.
- rnRtart,�tWlt.+,?f rs'+9�.�^';.f.,.'rSr�F�[xegK41:
Commission teamed up with local utilities ., . .tet t � 4. ,�t..itati
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ComEd and Nicor to offer Elgin residents ��
•'ExtbAWsxwbpe5 ma6wY 6 6F}yy bxM '�*susrtn Omen rnrt�t.nm��
a(Mt*tW.aO S ttq}wwx+44,4.+.4 s;-.,1444.4•wi 444.4.4444Nav
cash incentives to make energy efficiency .
.ttM uSst A91lY]C tlf up tPt apSM:'1 »sGYOi[Mi M/'t U.bi.
and key weatherization upgrades in their 116. 11
homes. 1r141:4sOe of a 044441e4 44tatste FraPmatat a4104,44,1.>x.
eaiequnra;S Alt*:.*"1.17 5:
ComEd and Nicor's Home Energy
Savings Program entitles residents to a
comprehensive energy audit, installation Actual participant results:
of energy saving items, discounts on
programmable thermostats and 50% (up Combustion Safety Testing
to $1,750) towards weatherization Targeted Air Sealing
improvements. Bathroom Vent Fan
Participants receive installation of 10 Attic Insulation
compact fluorescent light bulbs, faucet
aerators, shower heads, and hot water Total Project Cost: $2,958.70
pipe wrap. Residential customers can ComEd/Nicor Rebate: $1 ,250
participate in the program for $99. City of Elgin Rebate: $1 ,250
The city's program offered Elgin residents Total Cost to Elgin Homeowner: $458.70
the chance to receive a dollar-for-dollar
match on ComEd/Nicor's rebate,
providing up to $2,500 in financial A savings of 85%
incentives to save energy.
Participants in Elgin rebate
ro 33 Free ResourCc,
program:: C onservotior. Kit-,
Ham, El 0-,rgySa
Average Rebate Amount: $1,077 R,: t
Most common weatherization
upgrades: Attic and home
insulation
Funded by the Department of Energy, Energy Efficiency
and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG)
E LG I N SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION REPORT FALL 2012
THE CITY IN THE SUBURBS
Resource Conservation Kits. 7
Launched at the Green Expo, the Elgin Sustainability CommissionEnergySavers }
and local hardware stores teamed up to provide Elgin residents
free energy saving items like faucet aerators, power strips and
window shrink kits. Local hardware stores Home Depot and
Zeigler's Ace Hardware partnered with staff to implement this `.
program. Staff has also partnered with ComEd and Nicor so the
energy use of each participant can be tracked and energyV-7 . .,'
reductions measured. 1
Since launch, seventy-nine kits have been distributed to Elgin
homeowners. Each participant was also provided the U.S. R
Department of Energy publication Home Energy Savers to learn ,- i t
more about energy efficiency at home.
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, . .,, ' ' -' Participants used on average,
20% less water during summer
II months than their neighbors
7.'
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Ziegler's Ace Hardware ri Home Depot Kit#1 [W-1, Home Depot Kit#2
Contains: Contains: Contains:
(1)EcoFlow Showerhead 'K1)60 W L.E.D Lightbulb (1) Power strip
.3 (2) Faucet aerators 6) Light switch insulators (6) Light switch insulators
£ (1) Roll of"Fit Foam" insulation K6)Outlet insulators (6)Outlet insulators
Z . (6)Window shrink kits )(1)Container of caulk (1) Container of caulk
(6) Light switch insulators iLlWeatherstripping roll i (1) Weatherstripping roll
(6)Outlet insulators (2) Faucet aerators (2) Faucet aerators
(9)Window insulation kits (9) Window insulation kits
N
Funded by the Department of Energy, Energy Efficiency ._
and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG)
ii
` `" SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION REPORT FALL 2012 2 , E LG I NJ
> ,.. .wm�i'3.t;- THE CITY IN THE SUBURBS
The city of Elgin has been taking steps to create more E ,.a:
sustainable landscaping features in public parks and "' '" a
open space. For instance, naturalizing detention basins 'i
allows deep-rooted, native plants to establish themselves
creating habitat, while also providing water quality ..
benefits. Elgin has naturalized two detention basins to
date, at the corner of Holmes Road and ""` ..---
McLean Boulevard and at Lords Park. ... ----`
In April 2012, as a continuation of these ..
initiatives, the city established several "no ---- ` -�
mow" zones on city-owned land to create ..
natural, passive park growth areas.
Located throughout the city, the "no-mow"
zones represent a first step towards a more -- -«
natural, environmentally beneficial landscape for '. .,x,.
public property. Allowing turf grass to grow uncut
deepens root systems and can help stabilize soil me.
as well as create habitat for local fauna.
Elgin's "no-mow" zones introduce a new aesthetic
to city property, allow natural vegetation to re- `'
establish itself and reduce mowing costs for these
areas. These "no mow" are also candidate sites for a .3 - ����,�� :kw
more comprehensive native prairie restoration.
To assist neighborhoods become familiar with the ` See the "no-mow" zones for
"no-mow" zones staff erected notification signage yourself!
near each area. The higher visibility areas received
brochure boxes filled with Elgin's Guide to 'No- Century Oaks Park
Mow' Zones publication. Wing Park
Lords Park
Eagle Heights Park
.
t n r North of Gail Borden Library
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E LG I N SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION REPORT FALL 2012
THE CITY IN THE SUBURBS '
Sustainability Displays s
As part of the annual Green Expo, the
� _ Sustainability Commission developed seven
educational banners that not only served as a
)' aesthetically pleasing entryway to the Expo,
ELGIN GREEN
but will also allow for travelin indoor displays
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i --- ' ' - _ ..11,,,,
Cor"nposttng
for community events.
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ik%Utltt$iS tCd+ y3ier;i.ieaeidsJs;7Tlrsr worms sxr �•€�:, �
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THECITY IN THE SUBURBS" Funded by
and the DepartmentConservation of EnergyBlockGrant, Energy(EECBGJ Efficiency
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Y
SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION REPORT FALL2012s,F . ..., E LG I N
THE CITY IN THE SUBURBS
10
arra Lana Lease erog
Over the last several years, community gardens have been started in Elgin at various
schools, parks and churches growing from five gardens in 2010 to a total of over twenty
gardens in 2012. Originally funded in part by Kane County's "Fit for Kids" grants, the
gardens were built and managed through the Elgin Community Garden Network, a
volunteer organization. In 2011, these gardens provided more than 650 pounds of food for
area food pantries and soup kettles.
As the community garden
Community Gardens...
movement continued to grow,
staff found that other cities
implemented programs and • Beautify property, discourage vandalism and
policies allowing local loitering
organizations to lease empty • Eliminate approx. $1,000 per lot in annual
city-owned land for use as maintenance costs
productive gardens. Similar to • Demonstrate commitment to sustainability and
healthy eating
the city of Chicago, Baltimore,
• Build a sense of community
Madison and Seattle, the city of
crafted such a program • Provide apartment dwellers and other residents a
allowing community groups to place to grow food
convert city-owned parcels into ------------ --- -- — -- — --
community gardens through lease agreements.
Elgin's first community garden land lease was enacted in June 2012 with the Boys and Girls
Club. The Boys and Girls Club is responsible for all maintenance and equipment. The city is
under no obligation to provide water, electricity, staff, equipment or other city services.
ro,?$
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E LG I N SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION REPORT FALL 2012
THE CITY IN THE SUBURBS ,.„.
11
2012 Neighborhood improvement Grants
New in 2012, the Sustainability Commission reviewed and awarded all Neighborhood
Improvement Grant applications. The commission received seven applications in 2012
and was fortunate enough to fund all seven.
Bike 'Ease of Use' Map
The city's Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory
Committee (BPAC) applied to create a
I ) Pp o+►. Klock ter, 4,
map that would allow a majority of '{r " R
recreational cyclists learn to get around
M
Elgin in a safe manner. The BPAC
recognizes that most cyclists are interested , .
in cycling but have concerns about safety. _
This map alleviates those concerns by
mapping Elgin and ranking how - ,,
comfortable each street is for cyclists. The P`°`"reao Road SA*W°u`.'
map also identifies points of interest and t w`t«> taw
. cwcaC mate.
difficult cycling intersections. T. _
t _. - 01
TFLh tnteri Aon
Funding: $7,000 az .. - AtrtOaJ ® �,ttpte
_ ; ..s
Estimated Completion: Spring 2013 - got
`°
a C,t>Immur 14 Q r
` ° 0
Fountain Square Public Parking Lot Planters M ub,,,, "
Fountain Square Condo homeowners applied to install plants in the 8kxk,..-.9 +aoameteran^--3,--w
public parking lot adjacent to their building. The parking lot, located
,, Srr',.rt10tMM"kxnro,Wxark
between Grove Avenue and Riverside Drive, offers convenient
downtown parking for up to seventy-two hours free of charge.
The plants were chosen for their heartiness and salt-tolerance.
Funding: $2,378 ".
These plants will beautify downtown and help reduce the heat Status: Complete
island effect of the parking lot.
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_ �: SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION REPORT FALL 201
ELGIN
... THE CITY IN THE SUBURBS
•
12
Elgin Area Historical Society Windmill Educational Signage
With the help of more than fifty volunteers,
the Elgin Area Historical Society is working to
restore and erect an original sixty-five foot
windmill in Elgin's Foundry Park.
The Elgin Windmill Company operated in Elgin
i —
from 1882 to 1946 on the site of what is now . ... ,
Foundry Park. The project has already
• • .
received positive endorsement from the Elgin • * i . ,.111 --
Heritage Commission, Cultural Arts
40.47
. .
Commission and the Planning and Zoning
Board.
''''Funding: '.2,880
The Sustainability Commission has granted
funds to design and erect educational Estimated Completion: TBA
signage for the site, highlighting the history of
the site, the Elgin Wind Mill company and Elgin's burgeoning wind industry.
Harvest Market Educational Signage
The Downtown Neighborhood Association hosts Elgin's downtown summer harvest market.
In 2012, the market applied to create educational signage for display at the market.
,.. ,„ 4
,1",,'''''i''',',^'‘ ' ',,! 41 4,04 i''4 ' Elgin Harvest Market Educational Signage
Arw.:-
..''''',:\f'lk 4' .:‘,‘‘ •,, ,,,f,, p '% i ,
‘,.., '' '''' ' i tz' \ A;'. ' • Promoting kids reading
,., . ,,, k', - ....., - - 'i 4,..„ ,• • Healthy eating
• Market food origin
•\4 „.0-' , -- . .
, • Seasonal produce diagrams
",,••.
• Using the Illinois Link card
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. _
un•ing• . 000
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Status: Complete
,
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ill, -*-2-,sgtf.,44,, c$, .r,-.0 ,47:-.:4„-.-. .1-$3,:-ffi:',/-$,, "-'‘4.t.'4#-toe".v.:$.2';•2-..,. 7:, ,, ;-.- r - ',.: ' ,,.-$..:,,,,, , ,.,,,,, $,, . ',.
ELGIN ir'. SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN ihIPLEMENTATION REPOR1 i'l,AL.L.,20:1,; ,...„' , - l'-'0...:4,«.-e:::.f•.
-74%,:t ,'. ---''Vj--,•'--.4.-..,',.. , ' , ,-',..,- ,41;' , ,..,
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Northeast Neighborhood Association Butterfly Garden Educational Component
In 2007 the Northeast Neighborhood Association (NENA) received a Neighborhood
Improvement Grant to create a community butterfly garden located at the northeast
corner of Douglas Street and Ann Street
In 2012, NENA applied to expand the garden 1=unain : .6 70
by adding in an educational component. g.
Estimated Completion: Sept. 2012
Their project adds several plants that promote �� �� � � ^����� -
butterfly breeding as well as educational
signage that identify plants and butterfly
developmental stages.
NENA partnered with McKinley Elementary
School, where students helped plant and
create the educational materials. The
children researched butterflies habitats and
planted several butterfly larval food choices
. a.
(dill, broccoli, cabbage etc.) The students _
also planted hundreds of annuals to provide
butterfly nectar.
In just their first season, the students raised
and released more than two-dozen
monarch butterflies.
�•
Country Brook Native Plantings
The Country Brook Subdivision (located near may.
the intersection of Longford Circle and �" '°
Bode Road) applied to install native plants .
at the entrances of their subdivision,
beautifying the area. The HOA already has
more than twenty volunteers ready and �� � � �� .
willing to plant the landscaping and _
maintain it indefinitely.
Estimated Completion: Spring 2013
' 24,1)1
USTAiNABILBTY ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION REPORT FALL 2 E LV I 1 I
THE CITY IN THE SUBURBS
40.. 01 Neighborhood Grants i . 14
Fox River Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge Phase I Engineering
This project is a collaborative effort between the city, Northeast Neighborhood
Association (NENA), Judson University and other organizations. The grant awarded
$15,000 towards phase I engineering for a pedestrian bridge across the Fox River,
connecting Judson University to Elgin's east side. The majority of funding for Phase I
engineering would be provided by state grant funds. The city utilized one its many
grant writing agreements with local engineering firms to submit an application for the
Illinois Transportation Enhancements Program (ITEP), which would provide funds for
phase one engineering work and construction.
Total phase I engineering is estimated at $170,000 while Total project cost is estimated
at 2.4 million.
The city is still in the early stages of this initiative, and progress will likely be contingent
upon other agencies contributing engineering and construction costs as well as
securing additional grants funds.
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Funding:'$15,000 -. 4
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Status: In progress
E LG I N SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION REPORT FALL 2012
THE CITY IN THE SUBURBS
p
15
asNinoaxGreen
reen i trasn UC e Grant s` x
The city of Elgin received more than $630,000 to installpgQ
stormwater best management practices in an older ElginV. ALI j'
neighborhood, served by combined sewers. Funds were
�
awarded through the Illinois Green Infrastructure Grant 144. Z.
(IGIG) program administered by the Illinois Environmental CZ)
Protection Agency (TEPA).
The funded project, entitled "The Lord Street Basin CSO
Green Infrastructure Retrofit Project," entails the installation
of approximately thirty rain gardens located on public right-of-way and two permeable
paver alleyways.
The total project cost is $751 ,900 and divided as follows: $1 17,900 (city share) and
$634,000 (state share).
Homeowner participation in this project is integral and the long-term maintenance of
the rain gardens will be the responsibility of the adjacent property owner. In March, 2012
the projects first kickoff meeting was held in
.,, the Southwest Area Neighborhood with
--°-a• 1; more than 80 attendees, the neighborhoods
• t a«•‘,
• ` .� largest meting to date.
4 , 4'
' '" -- „ Since that time staff has conducted more
• ';- I , than forty site visits, selected several rain
�- 7' garden sites, developed a twenty-five page
�s� ...«. a ;._ p Y p g
r 3 "Homeowners Guide to Rain Gardens" and
-�4 identified candidate permeable paver
• .'. % alleyways.
w•
The first set of rain gardens is to be installed in
Fall 2012 with the remaining green
',s ,,,, „riv ; infrastructure installations completed
�� "� fir.,. „+}"n ,
throughout 2013 and 2014.
1 :
1.17-7
anglik
SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION REPORT FALL 2012 E LG I N
Policy Initiatives 1 6
Solar Installation Ordinances
Members of the Sustainability Commission have collaborated to develop complete
drafts of a solar power ordinance that would permit residential, commercial and
industrial properties to install rooftop and free-standing solar panels to generate clean,
renewable energy. Staff is reviewing the draft and intends to submit it to city council by
the end of 2012.
Complete Streets Policy
The Sustainability Commission has also developed a complete draft of the city's first
complete streets policy. The Complete Streets Policy seeks to benefit and improve
safety, public health, economic development, and a sustainable and environmentally
friendly infrastructure. This policy will effectively prepare the City of Elgin for the future
by helping change social norms and attitudes associated with non-motorized vehicle
travel. Staff and other stakeholder groups are reviewing the draft with the intent to
submit the policy to city council by the end of 2012.
' Elf oils
Increased Educational Programming at Hawthorne Hill Nature Center
Recognizing the importance of education, the Sustainability Commission is developing
a partnership with the Conservation Foundation. This partnership could bring many
school-age classes to Hawthorne Hill Nature Center to learn the importance of
environmental stewardship and restoration.
Curbside Composting Pilot Program
As the city of Elgin nears the end of its current waste-hauling contract, many
opportunities to implement new waste programs will present themselves. One program
in particular, as identified by the Sustainability Action Plan is curbside composting. This
pilot would allow Elgin residents to have food scraps and other compostables picked
up curbside and turned into rich compost. Northern Illinois communities such as
Highland Park and Oak Park are currently experimenting with curbside composting
and will likely serve as models for Elgin.
Energy Impact Illinois
The Center for Neighborhood Technology, ComEd, Nicor have teamed up to offer
Illinois residents incentives to perform energy efficiency and weatherization upgrades
to their homes. For$99 homeowners will receive the installation of energy saving items,
a comprehensive energy audit and up to $1,750 towards efficiency upgrades. The
Sustainability commission is excited to partner with Energy Impact Illinois and help
spread the word about these great (and limited!) incentives.
n�
.SII'► K
ELGIN SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION REPORT FALL 2012
THE CITY IN THE 5U8UREIS
ELGIN
THE CITY IN THE SUBURBS'
DATE: October 18, 2012
TO: Aaron Cosentino, Management Analyst
FROM: Jennifer Quinton, Deputy City Clerk
SUBJECT: Resolution No. 12-142 Adopted at the September 26, 2012, Council Meeting
Enclosed you will find the agreement listed below. Please distribute this agreement to the other
party and keep a copy for your records if you wish. If you have any questions please feel free to
contact our office 847-931-5660 and we will do our best to assist you. Thank you.
• Support of the Illinois Cool Cities Local Sustainability Protection Agreement
2015 Goals