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EEAC Workshop pkt. 05-19-11AGENDA ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT ADVISORY COMMISSION WORKSHOP THURSDAY, MAY 19, 2011 6:30 P.M. CONFERENCE ROOMS 2A & 2B SECOND FLOOR/EAGAN CITY HALL I. ROLL CALL AND AGENDA ADOPTION II. VISITORS TO BE HEARD III. WELCOME AND INTRODUCE COMMISSIONER ROSS BINTNER IV. FINALIZE PLANS FOR SHOWCASE EAGAN / EEAC BOOTH V. DEVELOP 2011 -2012 EEAC WORK PROGRAM / GOALS VI. ADJOURNMENT TO: FROM: DATE: City of Evan MeMo 2. ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT ADVISORY COMMISSION ASSISTANT TO THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR MILLER MAY 12, 2011 SUBJECT: MAY 19, 2011 EEAC WORKSHOP, 6:30 P.M. An Eagan Energy and Environment Advisory Commission (EEAC) workshop is scheduled for Thursday, May 19 at 6:30 p.m. in Conference Room 2A &B (second floor, inside the Administration/Finance area). The purpose of the workshop is to: 1.) further discuss and finalize the 2011 -2012 Commission Goals /Work Plan for presentation to the City Council at the June 14 joint meeting between the Council and EEAC; 2.) welcome and introduce new Commission member Ross Bintner; and, 3.) finalize plans for the EEAC's booth at Showcase Eagan on June Enclosed is an agenda for the May 19 workshop, along with meeting notes from the April 12 EEAC workshop. Included with the meeting notes are follow up responses and information requested by the Commission at the April meeting (follow items are in italics). If you have any questions before the May 19 workshop, please feel free to contact me at 651/675 -5014 or dmiller@cityofeagan.com. /s /Dianne E. Miller Assistant to the City Administrator EEAC Work Session —April 12, 2011 Meeting Notes and Follow Up Responses Items in italics are updates since the April 12 workshop. Future EEAC Presentations May 12, 2011 • Schedule presentations by Dakota County (GHG inventory /environmental services) and City of Eagan Water Quality— determine preference for June mtg Showcase Eagan • The EEAC has reserved a booth at Showcase Eagan, which will take place on Thursday, June 2 from 4:30 -6:30 p.m. at the Eagan Civic (Ice) Arena. o Enclosed on pages and P I is an e -mail from the Showcase Eagan Coordinator, which includes instructions for exhibitors, as well as tips for a successful display. • Items to display /handout: o GreenStep Cities info (Amin getting GreenStep indoor banner) o GHG data points o Bruce's energy use chart (Livermore Lab) o "Give aways" from utilities if they are not represented at Showcase (e.g. CFLS from Xcel for DVR's event) (No Utilities will be present at Showcase; each utility was contacted and all three (Xcel, Dakota Electric, and MN Energy Resources have agreed to provide resources to distribute and /or display) o Opportunity for feedback on issues for EEAC to address o Have GreenStep reports on hand to refer to during conversations o Laptop; show GreenStep website (wifi capable at Civic Arena GreenStep Cities —Next Steps /Discussion on Remaining Best Practices • B3— Dianne noted meeting scheduled with MPCA staff in late April for demonstration of B3 system o Successful meeting held with staff and MPCA representatives; MPCA intern entering three years of Eagan utility data into B3 system and City staff is receiving training on how to enter current data from this point forward. o The GreenSteps website has been updated to note that Eagan has completed this best practice requirement. 1 EEAC Work Session —April 12, 2011 Meeting Notes and Follow Up Responses Page 2 • Complete Streets o Dianne noted the staff meeting that was held regarding Complete Streets actions and approaches underway in Eagan. o Per the consensus of staff and the commission, a resolution will be prepared for the Commission's review and recommendation to the City Council that states the Complete Streets approach that the City of Eagan currently utilizes. ■ In follow up to the Commission's discussion, Public Works staff followed up with the coordinator of the State Complete Streets External Advisory Committee, which has been tasked with creating design standards for a State -wide Complete Streets approach. Enclosed on pages I and ct is the committee's roster and timeline for 2011, which calls for the committee working through 2011 before submitting their recommendations to MnDOT. ■ City staff is currently reviewing a proposed Complete Streets resolution for the City of Eagan, which will be brought to the May 19 Commission workshop for further discussion. o GreenStep staff coordinator, Philipp Muessig, stated that such a resolution would meet the requirements of the Complete Streets best practice. o Dianne noted that additional Complete Street efforts certainly could be explored further with the Council and Advisory Planning Commission. • Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy o The Commission suggested that such a policy be created in accordance with the GreenStep best practice. o Language was suggested by the Commission to read: "first consideration" or "when cost feasible" in purchasing Energy Star, 30% enviro- paper, etc. o For May meeting, the Commission asked for examples of a strict, moderate, and "easy" EPP Policies, with the goal to draft a policy for Council consideration in June. ■ The policies enclosed on pages t® through 2l are attached for the Commission's review: Mahtomedi (basic), Falcon Heights (moderate), and Minneapolis (in depth and strict). • Enclosed on page 2.2. for the Commission's review is a draft EPP Policy for the City of Eagan. Pending feedback from the Commission on the scope of the policy, City staff could then review the policy language and the policy would then be forwarded to the City Council for formal consideration. o Commissioner Nadav noted he would share sample purchasing policies and information about Energy Star via e -mail. 2 EEAC Work Session —April 12, 2011 Meeting Notes and Follow Up Responses Page 3 o The Commission suggested that the City consider a baseline policy and include language that the policy will be reviewed annually. o The Commission asked staff to review the Wellspring program through Dakota Electric. Enclosed on pages 23 and 2 is an FAQ about the Dakota Electric Wellspring Program. The City of Eagan historically has sought to receive the lowest rates for electricity, and thus has not participated in the Wellspring program, which has a higher rate than the rate currently paid by the City. • Community Engagement o Link GHG data from Dakota County to the City's website o Post GreenStep updates on the City's website o Report summary of GreenStep efforts through Experience Eagan and Eagan Business News (after June meeting with the City Council) o Consider partnership with local school for web site assistance o Since the April workshop, a message appeared on the City's electronic read board announcing Eagan's participation in the GreenStep program and included the MPCA website. An article is also scheduled to appear in Eagan Patch regarding the City's participation and accomplishments in the GreenStep program, as well as the role the Commission has taken in the process. 2010 -2011 EEAC Accomplishments • Got organized as a Commission • Educational component at every meeting • Close to achieving Level III GreenStep status in one year Suggested Work Plan Items for 2011 -2012 • "First priority " — Achieve Step III Status as a GreenStep City o Use GreenStep framework for future action to demonstrate continuous improvement (monitor level IV status when available) • Transportation o $4 /gallon gas prices— address! o Consider impact of increased walking distances for schools and the result of more parents driving their kids to schools (opportunity for more walking if trails are cleared— impact on City's plowing policies) o Include a prioritization system for trails in the City in terms of connections to be made (what are the key areas and what are the City's priorities for connections ?) EEAC Work Session —April 12, 2011 Meeting Notes and Follow Up Responses Page 4 ▪ Response from City Planner Ridley: There were no specific areas of the community or individual trail connections identified or targeted in the policy. In general, the policy targets retail areas, and the larger the area, the higher the project would score per the ranking system included in the policy. o Complete Streets — continue formalizing efforts • Composting /Organics o Partner with Dakota Valley Recycling regarding decline of landfill space / Education Campaign o Build connectivity and continue dialogue with City staff o Policy work at the State level to support land fill changes to promote the recycling of organics • Website development for EEAC and energy /sustainability efforts /issues in the City • Streetlights— review LED opportunities (dig deeper into numbers, pilot studies, etc.), and look at dark sky complaint opportunities • Lockheed Martin Campus —any role for EEAC in review of sustainable design? Could the EEAC work with the APC? • Bicycle/Pedestrian Educational Opportunities o "I rode my bike" campaign o Can the EEAC encourage safer biking o Work with the Chamber to encourage a discount program at retail stores and /or events o Work with business community to encourage the placement of bike racks outside of stores o Make commercial corridors more pedestrian/bike friendly o Remember seasonal nature of biking /pedestrian opportunities • Cycling of Street Lights —can the City cycle lights on and off? o Response from Traffic and Operations Engineer Tim Plath: Each street light (some City owned and others utility- owned) has its own photocell which determines when the light comes on and off Thus modifications would be needed to group the photocells if cycling were to occur. There are some instances where City -owned street lights are connected to one photocell, thus having the potential to be cycled. Some of the challenges to cycling would include: 1,) The utility controls the rates for street lights and there currently is not a separate rate established for cycling the lights. A new fee would need to be established by the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and then incorporated into the franchise agreements; 2.) There are social and political implications of changing street light dynamics; and, 3.) The City may have liability issues given safety impacts of turning off some streetlights, albeit even for shorter periods of time. EEAC Work Session —April 12, 2011 Meeting Notes and Follow Up Responses Page 5 • Promotion of telecommuting o Determine ways that the City could encourage telecommuting o Policy work at the State level to encourage telecommuting • Commuting /Improving transit o More efficient transit routes o Bussing to major employers /neighborhoods o How can we have 1 -car households? • Lawn care/ Native grass planting o Need more clarification/conversation on low- maintenance yard policy — difference between tall grass and planned native landscaping o Education campaign on use of non -gas, "real" lawn mowers o Exchange system for old mowers • Water Quality — health concerns with algae, etc. • Renewable energy opportunities • Tie goals to metrics o See Minneapolis annual green report: http: / /www. ci.minneapolis.mn.us/ sustainability /docs /2010MinneapolisGreenPrint Report.pdf o See Possible Sustainability Indicators for Annual GreenStep Cities Report provided by Commissioner Nadav (enclosed on pages 25 through VO ) o Include metrics as part of an annual GreenStep report Next Steps • May workshop Formalize 2011 -2012 Work Plan for presentation to the Council at the June 14 joint meeting • May workshop Finalize Showcase Eagan plans • June— include wind report from Sperry Tower if available (one year's worth of data ideal) /s/Dianne Miller Assistant to the City Administrator 5 Dianne Miller From: Sent: Cc: Subject: Attachments: Showcase Eagan Participants & Community Groups: Thank you for registering for Showcase Eagan. We look forward to your participation and everything that your organization will bring to Eagan citizens. Below are several reminders and updates in preparation for the event: 3 SHOWCASE • The theme of Showcase Eagan 2011 is 'Making a Difference.' • Booth assignments and set -up times: Booth assignments will be sent out within the next 2 weeks Event Time: o 4:30p.m. — 7:30p.m. Set -Up Times: o Wednesday, June 1, 4:00 — 8:OOPM o Thursday, June 2, 9:OOAM — 2:OOPM Take -Down Times: o Thursday, June 2, 7:30 — 10:OOPM • Informational paragraph for newsletters, bulletins, Facebook or emails: Mark your calendars for Thursday night, June 2. [Insert name of your organization] is participating in Showcase Eagan, a community -wide event geared at all ages. Civic groups, non - profits, religious organizations and city services come together inside the Eagan Civic Arena in a fun atmosphere to answer questions and demonstrate all there is to take part of in our community. There are free hot dogs and chips, displays of large city vehicles, police K -9 exhibitions, entertainment and more. Invite your friends or new neighbors. The event is from 4:30 to 7:30 PM. The Civic Arena is on the Eagan Municipal Campus just south of the intersection of Pilot Knob and Wescott Road. • Attached is "Tips for a Successful Showcase Eagan" — please review the document for helpful suggestions for an effective trade -show booth. I will forward additional information and booth assignment in weeks to come. If you have questions or requests, please contact me at (651) 675 -5671 or sbrandel @cityofeagan.com. Thank you, Sarah Brandel Sarah Brandel Tuesday, May 10, 2011 2:44 PM Courtney Seaberg; Darrin Bramwell; Jill Ondrey; Joanna Foote; Katy Jonas; Kerry Phillips; Kristi Peterson; Kurt Schlegel; Mark Vaughan; Michelle Lutovsky; Paul Graham; Sarah Brandel; Scott Peterson; Steve Bolluyt; Tom Garrison; Tom Pepper Showcase Eagan - June 2 Handout - Tips for a successful Showcase Eagan.docx Sarah Brandel I Office Supervisor / Administrative Assistant 1 City of Eagan City Hall 1 3830 Pilot Knob Road 1 Eagan, MN 55122 1 (651) 675 -5671 1 (651) 675- 5694 (Fax) 1 sbrandel(a�cityofeagan.com City of hp THIS COMMUNICATION MAY CONTAIN CONFIDENTIAL AND /OR OTHERWISE PROPRIETARY MATERIAL and is thus for use only by the intended recipient. If you received this in error, please contact the sender and delete the e -mail and its attachments from all computers. City of Eagan Tips for a successful Showcase Eagan The chance to make a positive impression and convince people to engage in your booth passes quickly. The following suggestions will help introduce visitors to your organization. 1. Design the (10 ft. x 10 ft.) booth so visitors can navigate easily without feeling crowded. a. Keep the atmosphere intimate and remove any barriers between yourself and your audience. b. Stand near the aisle or off to the side so you do not block any views of your booth. c. Keep all of your organization items within your designated booth area. 2. Keep messages simple, but give details. 3. Communicate who you are and what your organization does. a. Focus on your target audience and design your booth to appeal to them. Make it clear what service you are offering. 4. Use signs and graphics to focus visitor attention on your message. a. Print text large enough to be read from a distance. b. Place text in the upper half of your display design, so people standing in front of the booth will not block it. c. Limit your main colors to 3 or less. 5. Consider offering a giveaway that conveys your message in a way that ties in with the exhibit's theme. 6. Greet visitors a. Smile.O b. Say hello. c. Do not sit. d. Keep hands in front of you. e. Do not talk on your cell phone. Thank you for your participation! C aT\ -4ce Committee Members / Monica Beeman, St. Paul / Don Ellwood & Don Pflaum, Minneapolis / Julie Dresel, MNDOT State Aid ► Dan Coyle, Kimley -Horn ► Cindy Voight, Duluth ► Mark Statz, Bonestroo / Shelly Pederson, Bloomington / Ron Quambeck, TKDA / Paul Stine & Tim Mitchell, MNDOT / Jim Grube, Hennepin County / Greg Isakson, Goodhue County Guiding Documents MNDOT Bikeway Facility Design Manual / Chapter 8820 State -Aid Operations, Department Local Transportation Division AASHTO / Context Sensitive Solutions in Designing Major Walkable Communities of Transportation State Aid for Urban Thoroughfares for cn ENVIRONMENTAL PURCHASING P0: ,JCY I 0 Attachment 13 It is the policy of. the City of Mahtorncdi to have an enviroinientally preferable purchasing policy. The policy consists of the following: 1. The City will only purchase EnergyStat (wv,w.en.ergystar.gov) certified equipment and appliances. 2. The City will only purchase copy paper and envelopes containing at least 30% post - consumer recycled content. 1 Use State and National Standards for the following: electronics (computers and monitors) (EPEAT), and cleaning products (Greenseal or Tlcologo). 4. Require printing services to be purchased from companies certified by Minnesota Great Printer, City of Falcon Heights Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy The goal of this policy is to encourage and increase purchasing that reflects the city's commitment to sustainability. Benefits of the policy include: • Conserving natural resources • Minimizing environmental impacts such as pollution and use of water and energy • Identifying environmentally preferable products and distribution systems • Setting an example for residents and businesses in the City of Falcon Heights The following policies are to be followed by the City of Falcon Heights: Recycled Paper Products 1) Printing paper, office paper, and paper products will contain the highest postconsumer content practicable, but no less than minimum recycled content standards established by the US EPA Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines. Energy and Water Savings 1) Where applicable, energy- efficient equipment will be purchased with the most up -to -date energy efficient functions. 2) All appliances and products purchased by the City and for which the US EPA Energy Star certification is available will meet Energy Star certification. Typically, this would include lighting systems, exhaust fans, water heaters, computers, exit signs, and appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and microwave ovens. 3) The city will purchase water- saving products whenever practicable. This includes, but is not limited to, high- performing fixtures like toilets, waterless urinals, low -flow faucets and aerators, and upgraded irrigation systems. This policy is subject to the requirements and preferences in the Municipal Contracting Law (MN Statutes 471.345) and all other applicable laws and ordinances. Falcon Heights Environment Commission City of Minneapolis Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy I. PURPOSE AND SCOPE A. The goal of this policy is to encourage and increase purchasing that reflects the City's commitment to sustainability. This Policy is adopted in order to: Promote environmental factors such as: • conserving natural resources, • minimizing environmental impacts such as pollution and use of water and energy, • eliminating or reducing toxics that create hazards to workers and our community, • supporting strong recycling markets, • reducing materials that are landfilled, • increasing the use and availability of environmentally preferable products that protect the environment, • identifying environmentally preferable products and distribution systems, • rewarding manufacturers and vendors that reduce environmental impacts in their production and distribution systems, • creating a model for successfully purchasing environmentally preferable products that encourages other purchasers in our community to adopt similar goals. Promote social equity factors consistent with State law, other City policies, and the Minneapolis Sustainability Initiative. Promote fiscal factors such as: • lowering overall costs by addressing full cost accounting (purchase, maintenance, disposal, staff time, and labor), • leveraging buying power, • assessing long term financial /market changes, • investing in technological advances in a rapidly changing market. B. This policy will apply to all City departments and employees, vendors, contractors and grantees for all products and services provided to the City. C. This policy is subject to the requirements and preferences in the Municipal Contracting Law (MN. Statue 471.345) and all other applicable laws and ordinances. II. DEFINITIONS "Environmentally preferable products and services" as defined by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) means products and services that have a lesser or reduced effect on human health and the environment when compared to competing products and services that serve the same purpose. This applies to raw material acquisition, as well as product manufacturing, distribution, use, maintenance, and disposal. In practice, the objective is to purchase products that have reduced environmental impact because of the way they are made, transported, stored, packaged, used and disposed of. When determining whether a product is environmentally preferable, the following standards should be considered: Bio Based Biodegradable Compostable Low toxicity 1 Carcinogen -free Recycled Content/recyclable Persistent, Bioaccumulative Toxic (PBT) free Durable, reusable or refillable Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) free Made from renewable products Heavy metal free (Le. no lead, mercury, cadmium) Reduced packaging Low volatile organic compound (VOC) content Refurbished /refurbish able Energy and water efficient Reduce greenhouse gas emissions Available locally "ASTM" means American Society for Testing and Materials. "ASTM D6400 -04" means the standard specifications for compostable plastic in the US. "ASTM D6751" means the standard for production of biodiesel in the US. "Available locally" means that one or more businesses within the county /city or immediate surrounding areas are able to provide goods and services in a timely manner, and in sufficient quantity and quality to meet a specific department/agency need. "Bio -Based Products" means commercial or industrial products (other than food or feed) that utilize plant based contents and residuals abut does not include products made from forestry materials. "Persistent, Bio accumulative Toxic (PBT)" pollutants are chemicals that are toxic, persist in the environment and bioaccumulate in food chains and, thus, pose risks to human health and ecosystems. The biggest concerns about PBTs are that they transfer rather easily among air, water, and land, and span boundaries of programs, geography, and generations. "Biodegradable" means the ability of a substance, material, or product ingredient to readily decompose by the action of microbes. "Buyer" means anyone authorized to purchase on behalf of this jurisdiction or its subdivisions. "CFLs" means compact fluorescent lamps. "Chlorofluorocarbon, (CFC)" refers to the family of compounds of chlorine, fluorine, and carbon. CFC's contribute to the depletion of the stratospheric ozone layer, and have been used as an ingredient for refrigerants, solvents, and for blowing plastic -foam insulation and packaging. The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer calls for complete elimination of CFC production. "Contractor" means any person, group of persons, business, consultant, designing architect, association, partnership, corporation, supplier, vendor or other entity that has a contract with City of Minneapolis or serves in a subcontracting capacity with an entity having a contract with City of Minneapolis for the provision of goods or services. "Dioxins and furans" are a group of chemical compounds that are classified as persistent, 13 2 bioaccumulative, and toxic by the Environmental Protection Agency. "Energy Star" means the US EPA's energy efficiency product labeling program described at http: / /www.energystar.gov. "Energy Efficient Product" means a product that is in the upper 25% of energy efficiency for all similar products, or that is at least 10% more efficient than the minimum level that meets Federal standards. "Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT)" is an easy -to -use, on -line tool helping institutional purchasers select and compare computer desktops, laptops and monitors based on their environmental attributes. "Forest Stewardship Council" is a global organization that certifies responsible, on- the - ground forest management according to rigorous standards developed by a broad variety of stakeholder groups (http: / /fscus.org /html/). "Green building" means the incorporation of environmental, health, and waste prevention criteria in building design, site- planning and preparation, materials acquisition, construction or remodeling, deconstruction, and waste disposal. "Integrated pest management (IPM)" means the use of a combination of pest control methods including improved sanitation, mechanical, physical, biological, or chemical means. "Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)" means the self- assessing system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council designed for rating new and existing commercial, institutional, and high -rise residential buildings. Credits are earned for satisfying defined criteria and standards. Different levels of green building certification are awarded based on the total credits earned. "Postconsumer Material" means a finished material which would normally be disposed of as a solid waste, having reached its intended end -use and completed its life cycle as a consumer item, and does not include manufacturing or converting wastes. "Practicable" means whenever possible and compatible with state and federal law, without reducing safety, quality, or effectiveness. "Preconsumer Material" means material or by- products generated after manufacture of a product is completed but before the product reaches the end -use consumer. Preconsumer material does not include mill and manufacturing trim, scrap, or broke which is generated at a manufacturing site and commonly reused on -site in the same or another manufacturing process. "Post- consumer recycled material" refers to material that has served its intended use and has been discarded for disposal or recovery, having completed its life as a consumer item, and is used as a raw material for new products. "Recovered Material" means fragments of products or finished products of a manufacturing process, which has converted a resource into a commodity of real economic value, and includes preconsumer and postconsumer material but does not include excess resources of the manufacturing process. "Recyclable" refers to a material or product that can be reprocessed, remanufactured, or reused. "Recycled Content" means the percentage of recovered material, including preconsumer and postconsumer materials, in a product. "Recycled Content Standard" means the minimum level of recovered material and /or postconsumer material necessary for products to qualify as "recycled products." "Recycled Product" means a product that meets the City's recycled content policy objectives for postconsumer and recovered material. "Remanufactured Product" means any product diverted from the supply of discarded materials by refurbishing and marketing said product without substantial change to its original form. "Reused Product" means any product designed to be used many times for the same or other purposes without additional processing except for specific requirements such as cleaning, painting or minor repairs. "Source Reduction" refers to products that result in a net reduction in the generation of waste compared to their previous or alternate version and includes durable, reusable and remanufactured products; products with no, or reduced, toxic constituents; and products marketed with no, or reduced, packaging. "US EPA Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines" are the most current policies established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for federal agency purchases. "Water- Saving Products" are those that are in the upper 25% of water conservation for all similar products, or at least 10% more water - conserving than the minimum level that meets the Federal standards. III. ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITES All City departments are responsible for implementation of this policy and to ensure their respective employees and contractors are fully aware and supportive of the City's policy to purchase environmentally preferable goods and services. All departments are responsible to: • ensure that specifications do not discriminate against reusable, recycled, or environmentally preferable products without justification, • evaluate environmentally preferable products to determine the extent to which they may be used by the department and its contractors, • review and revise specifications to maximize the specification of designated environmentally preferable products where practicable, • facilitate data collection on purchases of designated environmentally preferable products by the department in order to assist the Purchasing Department. The Purchasing Department will administer this policy by establishing a Sustainable Purchasing Committee composed of representatives of various city departments in order to: • expand the purchase of environmentally preferable products, • identify environmentally preferable alternatives and initiate pilot studies, • recommend goals, where practicable, to practice alternative processes within City operations that will reduce the use /disposal of hazardous substances and will promote resource conservation, • collect and maintain up -to -date information regarding manufacturers, vendors, and other sources for locating /ordering environmentally preferable products and will provide applicable information to departments, • provide assistance, where feasible, to city departments to incorporate environmentally 15 4 preferable products into their operations, • provide any other review, interpretation, and updates of this policy as necessary, • promote staff education and training as feasible and in coordination with other state and local efforts. PERFORMANCE, PRICE, AND AVAILABILITY Nothing contained in this policy will be construed as requiring a department or contractor to procure products that do not conform to existing regulations, do not perform adequately for their intended use, are not safe, exclude adequate competition, or are not available at a reasonable price. EFFECTIVE DATE This policy will take effect on January 1, 2009. The Purchasing Department, in conjunction with the Sustainable Purchasing Committee and responsible departments, will issue the first annual report within one year following the effective date of this policy and annually thereafter. The report will be to the Environmental Coordinating Team covering the status of this policy's implementation, information on total purchases of environmentally preferable products, results of designated product evaluations, financial implications, overall challenges, and recommendations for the future. IV. GENERAL CONDITIONS A. Source Reduction A.1. Minneapolis will institute practices that reduce waste and result in the purchase of fewer products whenever practicable and cost - effective, but without reducing safety or workplace quality, including but not limited to: • conserving natural resources, • communicating electronically instead of printing, • photocopying and printing double- sided, • using washable and reusable dishes and utensils, • using rechargeable batteries, • streamlining and computerizing forms, • printing of documents and reports only as they are needed, • leasing Tong -life products when service agreements support maintenance and repair rather than purchasing, • sharing equipment and occasional use items such as chippers, • choosing durable products rather than disposable, • reducing product weight or thickness when effectiveness is not jeopardized in products such as, but not limited to, paper and plastic liner bags, • buying in bulk, when storage and operations exist to support it, • reusing products such as, but not limited to, file folders, storage boxes, office supplies, and furnishings. A.2. The City will purchase remanufactured products such as laser toner cartridges, tires, furniture, equipment and automotive parts whenever practicable, but without reducing safety, quality or effectiveness. A.3. The City will require all equipment bought after the adoption of this policy to be compatible with source reduction goals and practices when practicable, including but not limited to: • copiers and printers capable of duplexing, • battery- operated equipment capable of being recharged or using rechargeable batteries, 1 cp 5 dishwashing equipment, when washable and reusable dishes and utensils are practicable. A.4. All buyers will evaluate short -term and long -term costs in comparing product alternatives, when feasible. This includes consideration of total costs expected during the time a product is owned, including, but not limited to, acquisition, extended warranties, operation, supplies, maintenance, disposal costs and expected lifetime compared to other alternatives. Examples of products for which such cost comparisons can indicate significant differences between short - and long -term costs include, but are not limited to, janitorial towels and tissues, parking stops, park benches and tables, office equipment, software and vehicles. A.5. Products that are durable, long lasting, reusable or refillable are preferred whenever feasible. A.6. The City of Minneapolis will require to the extent practicable, that surplus or outdated electronic equipment, including but not limited to computers, monitors, printers, and copiers, be designated for reuse and or recycling in a manner that minimizes the release of contaminants to the environment. A.7. Vendors will be encouraged whenever practicable to take back and reuse pallets and packaging materials. A.8. City funds will not be used to purchase single -use bottled water unless it is necessary to protect public health. B. Recycled Content Products B.1. Printing paper, office paper, and paper products will contain the highest postconsumer content practicable, but no less than the minimum recycled content standards established by the US EPA Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines. B.2. Janitorial paper products will contain the highest postconsumer content practicable, but no less than the minimum recycled content standards established by the US EPA Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines. B.3. Other products for which the US EPA has established minimum recycled content standard guidelines, such as those for construction, landscaping, parks and recreation, transportation, vehicles, miscellaneous, and non -paper office products, will contain the highest postconsumer content practicable, or, when postconsumer material is impracticable for a specific type of product, contain substantial amounts of recovered material, but no less than the minimums established by the US EPA Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines. B.4. Copiers and printers bought will be compatible with the use of recycled content products. When necessary, suppliers will train equipment maintenance personnel in the appropriate use of recycled products with their equipment. B.5. When specifying asphalt concrete, aggregate base or portland cement concrete for road construction projects, Minneapolis will use recycled, reusable or reground materials when practicable, including, but not limited to, in -place recycling of asphalt concrete, aggregate base and portland cement concrete; rubberized asphalt concrete; recycled aggregate base; or recycled asphalt concrete. B.6. To the greatest extent practicable, Minneapolis will specify and purchase recycled- content transportation products, including signs, cones, parking stops, delineators, and barricades, including recycled products approved by the Minnesota Department of Transportation. 6 B.7. The City of Minneapolis will purchase re- refined lubricating and industrial oil for use in its vehicles and other equipment, as long as it is certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API) as appropriate for use in such equipment. B.8. The City of Minneapolis will purchase paint meeting Green Seal or other equivalent environmental standard for recycled content latex paint whenever practicable. C. Forest Conservation C.1. To the greatest extent practicable, Minneapolis will not procure wood products such as lumber and paper that originate from forests harvested in an environmentally unsustainable manner. When practicable, Minneapolis will give preference to wood products that are certified to be sustainability harvested by a comprehensive, performance -based certification system. The certification system will include independent third -party audits, with standards equivalent to, or stricter than, those of the Forest Stewardship Council certification. C.2. The City of Minneapolis encourages the purchase or use of previously used or salvaged wood and wood products whenever practicable. D. Toxics and Pollution D.1. When making a choice among comparable products, the City will, whenever practicable, favor those products whose production, use, and disposal involve fewer hazardous materials, including: • carcinogens, neurotoxicants and reproductive toxins, • persistent bioaccumulative toxicants, including lead, mercury, dioxins and furans for example, • compounds that are acutely toxic to humans or aquatic life, corrosive to the skin or eyes, or that are skin sensitizers, • substances that contribute to the production of photochemical smog, tropospheric ozone production, or poor indoor air quality. D.2. The use of chlorofluorocarbon and halon- containing refrigerants, solvents and other products will be replaced as needed and new purchases of heating /ventilating /air conditioning, refrigeration, insulation and fire suppression systems will not contain them. D.3. The City of Minneapolis will implement an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Plan and practices for indoor and outdoor areas, using chemical controls only as a last resort and providing on -going training and certification for City staff. Purchases of materials and services made by the City will be consistent with its IPM policies. D.4. When maintaining buildings, the City of Minneapolis will use products with the lowest amount of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), highest recycled content, and low or no urea formaldehyde. Examples include paint, carpet, adhesives, furniture and casework. D.5. The City of Minneapolis will reduce or eliminate its use of products that contribute to the formation of dioxins and furans. This includes, but is not limited to: • finding safer alternatives to products that use polyvinyl chloride (PVC) such as, but not limited to, office binders, furniture, flooring, and medical supplies, whenever practicable, • purchasing paper, paper products, and janitorial paper products that are unbleached or that are processed without chlorine or chlorine derivatives, whenever practicable. D.6. The City of Minneapolis will reduce the use of disposable batteries by purchasing rechargeable batteries for devices, such as cameras, remote control, tape recorders, telephone headsets, and wireless keyboards and mice and other equipment when practicable. 7 D.7. Minneapolis will purchase products and equipment with no lead or mercury whenever practicable, including automotive vehicles. For products that contain lead or mercury, Minneapolis will give preference to those products with lower quantities of these metals and to vendors with established lead and mercury recovery programs. It is understood that CFLs do contain a small amount of mercury and the expectation is that they will be disposed of properly. D.8. The City of Minneapolis will specify that desktop computers, notebooks and monitors purchased or leased meet, at a minimum, all EPEAT environmental criteria designated as "required" as contained in the IEEE 1680 Standard for the Environmental Assessment of Personal Computer Products, whenever practicable. D.9. When replacing vehicles, the City of Minneapolis will lease or purchase only the most fuel - efficient models available that are suitable for each task and through carsharing and carpooling, will minimize the number of vehicles purchased. D.10. When replacing vehicles, the City of Minneapolis will consider less - polluting alternatives to diesel such as compressed or liquefied natural gas, bio -based fuels, hybrids, electric batteries, and fuel cells, as available. D.11. All City Departments and Agencies are prohibited from purchasing or acquiring polystyrene foam disposable food service ware and where affordable will use biodegradable or compostable disposable food service ware. D.12. Compostable plastic products purchased will meet American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards as found in ASTM D6400 -04. Biodegradable plastics used as coatings on paper and other compostable substrates will meet ASTM D6868 -03 standards, D.13. The purchase of all pentachlorophenol, arsenic and creosote treated wood by the City of Minneapolis is prohibited. D.14. The City will avoid purchasing products containing brominated flame retardants (BFRs), bisphenol -A, and phthalates wherever practicable. D.15. Resolution 2006R -526, Adopting Low Environmental Impact Cleaning Policy is incorporated into this policy. D.16. Minneapolis will reduce the use of salt and other toxics in the cleaning and snow removal of hard surfaces. E. Energy and Water Savings E.1. Where applicable, energy- efficient equipment will be purchased with the most up -to -date energy efficiency functions. When necessary, suppliers or manufacturers will train equipment operators and maintenance personnel in the proper enabling and use of energy efficient and sleep mode functions on their equipment. E.2. All appliances and products purchased by the City and for which the US EPA Energy Star certification is available will meet Energy Star certification. Typically, this would include lighting, heating systems, exhaust fans, water heaters, computers, exit signs, and appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers and microwave ovens. Purchased electronic products meeting EPEAT standards are highly encouraged. E.3. When Energy Star labels are not available, choose energy efficient products that are in the upper 25% of energy efficiency as designated by the Federal Energy Management Program. 14 8 E.4. The City will purchase water - saving products whenever practicable. This includes, but is not limited to, high - performance fixtures like toilets, waterless urinals, low -flow faucets and aerators, and upgraded irrigation systems. F. Green Building - Construction and Renovations F.1. All building and renovations undertaken by the City will follow green building practices for design, construction, and operation as outlined in this policy, F.2. Resolution 2006R-381 regarding adopting LEED standard for City buildings is incorporated into this guideline. F.3. The City will purchase high efficiency lighting, along with cooling and heating equipment whenever practicable. G. Waste Minimization G.1. Minneapolis requires vendors to eliminate packaging or use the minimum amount necessary for product protection, to the greatest extent practicable. G.2. Packaging that is reusable, recyclable or compostable is preferred, when suitable uses and programs exist. G.3. Vendors will be encouraged to take back and reuse pallets and packaging materials. G.4. Suppliers of electronic equipment, including but not limited to computers, monitors, printers, and copiers, will be required to take back equipment for reuse or environmentally safe recycling when Minneapolis discards or replaces such equipment, whenever practicable. H. Landscaping H.1. Workers and contractors providing landscaping services for the City will employ sustainable landscape management practices whenever practicable, including: • Using IPM, including minimal pesticide use, • Grasscycling (leaving the clippings on the lawn) for at least 50% of all mowings, • Pruning on an as needed basis. Thinning is the preferred method of pruning. Minimal heading or shearing is encouraged, • Fertilizing on an as needed basis, as indicated by a soil analysis. Slow release and /or organic fertilizers are preferred, • Scheduling irrigation based on weather (evapo- transpiration rates) whenever practicable. Drip irrigation is preferred whenever practicable, • Limiting turf areas where drip irrigation is not appropriate to walking and play surfaces. All other landscaping (such as for views) should be accomplished with low -water plantings, • Recycling plant debris by composting and /or maintaining a layer of mulch under all trees, shrubs and groundcovers and in all open areas. Allowing leaf drop to become part of the mulch layer in tree, shrub and groundcover areas is preferred. H.2. Plants should be selected to minimize waste by choosing species that are appropriate to the microclimate, species that can grow to their natural size in the space allotted them and perennials rather than annuals for color. Native and drought - tolerant plants that require no or minimal watering once established are preferred. H.3. To the greatest extent practicable, Minneapolis will not procure mulch products that originate from virgin forest products. When practicable, Minneapolis will give preference to mulch products that are produced on -site or from regionally generated plant debris. H.4. To the greatest extent practicable, Minneapolis will procure compost that is produced from Zo 9 feedstock that includes at least 50 %, by volume, regionally generated plant debris and /or food waste and less than 0.5% by volume, physical contaminants. The compost will be processed in to promote pathogen reduction and weed seed kill and minimize heavy metal concentrations. H.S. Hardscapes and landscape structures constructed of recycled content materials are encouraged. Concrete substitutes are encouraged for walkways, such as rosin emulsion paving or other porous materials. I. Bio -Based Products 1.1. Vehicles fuels made from plant -based contents are encouraged whenever practicable and unless they are determined to be less environmentally friendly than the alternative. The Bio Fuel will meet the blending ASTM D6751 standards. 1.2. Paper, paper products and construction products made from non -wood, plant -based contents and residues are encouraged whenever practicable. J. Producer Responsibility J.1. The City of Minneapolis will, whenever practicable, favor products that are manufactured by companies that take financial and /or physical responsibility for collecting, recycling, reusing, or otherwise safely disposing of their products and packaging at the end of their useful life. K. Renewable Energy and Greenhouse Gas Reductions K.1. The City of Minneapolis will commit to reducing energy use as much as feasible and the remaining energy needs will be met by renewable energy sources as much as is practicable. K.2. As it becomes practicable the City will attempt to reduce and record greenhouse gas emissions. L. Automatic Substitutions L.1. The City will work with their office supply contractor to establish an automatic substitution of environmentally and preferable alternatives for office supplies when practicable; that are readily available, cost effective and can perform for the intended use. M. Compliance with Statues and Ordinances M.1 Actions taken in accordance with this policy must comply with the Small and Underutilized Business Program Requirements in Chapter 423 of the Minneapolis Code of Ordinances, as well as the Living Wage and Responsible Public Spending Regulations outlined in Chapter 38. M.2 The City will encourage green purchasing that supports local suppliers as provided in the Resolution supporting the Minneapolis Good Green Jobs Initiative, subject to the limitations and requirements embodied in the Uniform Municipal Contracting Law. ZI 10 City of EaRall City of Eagan Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy The goal of this policy is to encourage and increase purchasing that reflects the City of Eagan's commitment to sustainability. Benefits of the policy include: • Conserving natural resources • Minimizing environmental impacts such as pollution, water usage, and energy waste • Identifying environmentally preferable products and distribution systems • Achieving best practices in environmental purchasing as identified through the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency's (MPCA) GreenStep Cities Program • Setting an example of environmental sustainability and energy conservation for residents and businesses in the City of Eagan The following policies are to be followed by the City of Eagan: Recycled Paper Products 1. Per Minnesota Statute 16B.122 and per the Federal Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) requirements, the City of Eagan will purchase paper products containing no less than 30% post - consumer recycled content. Energy and Water Savings 1. Appliances and products purchased by the City will meet Energy Star certification if such products are available and financially feasible (www.energystar.gov). Typically, this would include lighting systems, exhaust fans, water heaters, computers, exit signs, and appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and microwave ovens. 2. Water- saving products purchased by the City will meet the WaterSense certification when such products are available and financially feasible ( http: / /www.epa.gov /watersense). This includes, but is not limited to, high - performing fixtures such as toilets, waterless urinals, low -flow faucets and aerators, and upgraded irrigation systems. Cleaning Products 1. Cleaning products purchased by the City will meet Green Seal, EcoLogo, and /or U.S. EPA Design for the Environment cleaning product standards if such products are available, perform to an acceptable standard, and are financially feasible (http: / /www.greenseall.org , http : / /www.environmentalchoice.com , and http: / /www.epa.gov /dfe /standard for safer cleaning products.pdf). This policy is subject to the requirements and preferences in the Municipal Contracting Law (MN Statutes 471.345) and all other applicable laws and ordinances. Date of Approval: Approved: Mike Maguire, Mayor 2 1 GJ ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION Your Twchgonv Energy' Parma FOR YOUR HOME Wellspring® — Your Opportunity to Support Wind Po er! While the electricity delivered to your home includes increasing amounts of renewable energy, our Wellspring Renewable Wind Energy® program gives you the option to help us do even more for the environment. By participating in Wellspring, you not only help support wind energy development in Minnesota, but you also help reduce our dependency on non - renewable energy sources, like coal and other fossil fuels. What does participating in Wellspring mean? Wellspring Wind Energy is a voluntary program offered to our members. While the electricity delivered to all homes and businesses includes renewable energy in the mix, participating in Wellspring is an added bonus. In the last few years, additional turbines were built specifically for Wellspring participants. How does the program work? You can purchase Wellspring Wind Energy in 100 kWh blocks ® Each 100 kWh block costs an extra $0.40 per month* ® You determine how many blocks to purchase ® Call 651 - 463 -6212 to sign up for Wellspring * Price subject to change without notice How long do I have to stay on the program? You must remain on the program for at least 12 months. After 12 months, you may discontinue at any time. Where is Wellspring Wind Energy produced? Wind energy is produced with giant wind turbines in southern Minnesota. 2 3 Is the wind power supplied directly to my home? No. The electricity generated by the wind turbines is fed into the state's electric system, called the grid. It is like pouring a pitcher of water into a pond. You can't get the exact water molecules from the pitcher back out of the pond. The same holds true for recapturing wind - generated electricity from the grid. It is available to use, but to deliver the exact electron generated by the wind turbine is not possible. Wind power you purchase replaces electricity that would have been generated by conventional fuels. You won't be able to distinguish whether the electrons flowing into your home are generated by wind power or not. But, your commitment to purchase Wellspring Wind Energy will support the growth of wind energy and help lower reliance on coal and other fossil fuels. Will power in my home be dependent on the wind blowing? No. Your power will continue as usual because additional generation is built to ensure power is supplied when the wind is not blowing. This is typically natural gas powered generation. - continued on back Programs subject to terms, conditions and change without notice. i in d Ener'gy ° Answers to frequently asked questions (01, ii lr�7 . . How does wind energy work? How big are the turbines? How much wind is needed to generate electricity? How much electricity does an average wind turbine generate? Can we generate all our electricity from wind? How much energy can wind realistically supply to the U.S.? Is wind energy cheaper to produce than conventional generation options? What are the environmental impacts of wind generators? Does Great River Energy use any wind generation? Where can I learn more? r DAKOTA G JELECTI ASSOCIATION Your Touchnone Energy' Penner Wind spins large blades attached to a generator on top of a tall tower. This generates electricity that is transmitted over wires to homes and businesses. The wind turbines that generate electricity for Dakota Electric's members are 200 feet high and have three blades that ea ch measure 75 feet in length. Turbines are designed to generate electricity at wind speeds as low as 8 mph. As wind speed increases, the turbines generate more electricity. When wind speeds reach or exceed 56 mph, the turbines lock to prevent damage caused by spinning too fast. Most large wind turbines generate 500 to 1,800 kilowatts (kW). A 1,800 kW turbine generates enough electricity to power approximately 500 homes. The turbines providing power for Dakota Electric's Wellspring Renewable Wind Energy® participants each generate 600 kW. No. Wind is a great way to meet some of our electricity needs and an important part of the overall mix of generation options. However, wind cannot generate all of our electricity because the wind doesn't blow all the time. Wind often doesn't blow at all on hot summer days when people use the most electricity. Estimates for the total wind energy potential for the United States vary. The Battle Pacific Northwest Laboratory, a federal research lab, estimates that wind could supply 20 percent of the nation's electricity. Source: American Wind Power Association While wind is free, capturing it and converting it to electric power is slightly more expensive than conventional generation op- tions. The government currently provides financial incentives to make the price of wind - generated power more competitive, and as technology advances, wind power becomes more cost competitive. Additionally, the windiest areas are often far from areas that use the most power, requiring transmission line construction and adding to the overall cost of wind energy. Wind generators present minimal environmental impacts. Birds mayfly into spinning turbines. However, new large turbine blades rotate relatively slowly, and animal deaths caused by turbines are minimal. More birds are killed by human - related impacts such as buildings and vehicles, Visual impact and noise are also environmental factors related to wind turbines. Proper placement and design can help the visual impact, and new turbines are quieter than older ones. Great River Energy, Dakota Electric's wholesale power supplier, currently gets more than 300 megawatts (MW) of power from wind energy, They are on track to reach the 25 percent renewable energy goal by 2025 set by the Minnesota Legislature. Great River Energy currently receives wind energy from: • Trimont Area Wind Farm (100 MW) — Minnesota's first commercial - scale, landowner - developed wind farm. • Prairie Star Wind Farm (100 MW) • Elm Creek Wind Farm (99 MW) • Three smaller Minnesota wind projects in Chandler, Dodge Center and Jackson County (18 MW) To learn more about Great River Energy's use of wind and other renewable energy sources, visit www.greatriverenergy.com. • American Wind Power Association - www,awea.org • National Wind Coordinating Committee - www.nationalwind.org • Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy - www.e no rgy.gov Visit one of the following local projects: • School of Environmental Studies Renewable Energy Project, 12155 Johnny Cake Ridge Road, Apple Valley, MN 55124 • Dakota County Wind Turbine at Schaar's Bluff Trail Head, 8500127th Street East, Hastings, MN 55033 Contact the Energy Experts° Dakota Electric Association 4300 220th Street West, Farmington, MN 651 - 463 -6212 ® 800 -874 -3409 om FNERGY® wise 01/10 cn czt cn • • cn CA cn 0 as- Public works? 2 ugaiaall' °TTeA uto)Q m �' 4 F L' t Y� tt iit F r Y ��imot fi r` s m l' om yr t , f ,v'� „i a z5uTToIaag iCaIP A ujovQ Community Development, Dakota Electric /Xcel Energy Parks Dept? Avg water use /resident equivalent? Total water use by sector (RCI) eta ut # Tons waste generated? Per person? Recycling Rate � w reptio s wlo or }'Srmo lv ktr mojpw"Rtav # Eagan businesses recognized by ARROW program # penults granted for renewable energy projects i aaua algennauaa pawls-tit Jo ■lTJ # Eagan participants in Dakota Electric Wellspring, Xcel Windsource program (or total kWh renewable energy sold) # Community Gardens Market Fest Attendance? # Food vendors at Market Fest w/i X miles? Rain Gardens sassautsng u0010 a A 4 .� ,� 52.�L , k; ,.s;�:�h�= f », *S*4.* atst?rn ic Jug aigemauou Local Foods