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HomeMy WebLinkAboutRES 2022-077RESOLUTION NO. 2022-77 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING THE ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES PLAN WHEREAS, the City of Palm Desert, which relies heavily on the stability of the climate for our environment, economy, and quality of life, is committed to the long-range goal of protecting the natural environment, increasing sustainability efforts, and improving overall quality of life; and WHEREAS, the greenhouse gases (GHG) released into the atmosphere have been found to have a profound effect on the Earth’s climate and reducing the potential magnitude of climate change may lower its harmful effects on public health and safety; and WHEREAS, in February 2022, the City Council designated Environmental Initiatives as one of the City’s 2022 priorities; and WHEREAS, the previous Environmental Sustainability Plan and GHG Inventory approved in 2010 has become outdated; and WHEREAS, a new plan is necessary to ensure the continued progress by the City towards its environmental goals. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, as follows: SECTION 1. That the foregoing Recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein by this reference. SECTION 2. The City Council approves the Environmental Initiatives Plan for implementation. ADOPTED ON AUGUST 25, 2022. JAN C. HARNIK MAYOR ATTEST: ANTHONY J. MEJIA CITY CLERK Anthony Mejia (Sep 2, 2022 13:10 CDT) Resolution No. 2022-77 Page 2 I, Anthony J. Mejia, City Clerk of the City of Palm Desert, hereby certify that Resolution No. 2022-77 is a full, true, and correct copy, and was duly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Palm Desert on August 25, 2022, by the following vote: AYES: JONATHAN, KELLY, NESTANDE, QUINTANILLA, AND HARNIK NOES: NONE ABSENT: NONE ABSTAIN: NONE RECUSED: NONE IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the official seal of the City of Palm Desert, California, on September 2, 2022. ANTHONY J. MEJIA CITY CLERK Anthony Mejia (Sep 2, 2022 13:10 CDT) Environmental Initiatives Plan August 25, 2022 Background In February 2022, the City of Palm Desert held a Goal Setting Study Session. During this study session, City Council highlighted several priorities for 2022 including Environmental Initiatives. The Special Programs Division was tasked with developing an approach for the City to implement environmental initiatives. To create this plan, staff inventoried current internal sustainability related projects and researched other cities plans and projects. Implementation Timeline Upon adoption of the plan, staff will immediately begin its implementation and monitoring. Withing 12-18 months, staff will seek a consultant to conduct a best practices review to ensure that all key projects and metrics are being hit and to see if any additional items should be considered for inclusion in the plan. It is estimated that it will take approximately three (3) years to fully implement the current and potential projects outlined in this plan. After three years, staff will evaluate the plan’s standing and determine the next steps which may be to continue developing the plan in- house or to hire a consultant to develop a plan on the City’s behalf. Plan Budget Most of the current projects have already been budgeted for or having funding from the relevant department or grant funds. The proposed projects will need to have funding allocated for them if there is not already a funding source available. Measuring Success Staff will collect data on utility metrics including electricity, gas, water, and fuel for transportation to track overall City utility usage and costs. Where possible, staff will also collect data on individual project performance and/or estimated GHG emissions reductions. Plan success should lead to decreased utility usage, utility costs, and GHG emissions. Reporting Staff will provide projects updates in the Quarterly Reports to City Council and an annual update on the plan’s progress and metrics in the Annual Report to City Council. Staff will also provide updates to Palm Desert residents through the City website or Engage Palm Desert website as well as other outlets as appropriate. Environmental Initiatives Tracker Energy Conservation Project Department/Staff Timeline Budget Plan Objectives Description/Notes LS-1 Street Lighting Project Public Works - Andy Ramirez Project to begin August 2022 $0 / ($15,000) GP 4.1, 6.5 & 6.6 / SP E&S Priority 1 Approved at City Council 3/24. SCE will cover upfront costs to convert approximately 500 high pressure sodium vapor lamps to LED saving approximately 174,300 kWH per year and reducing GHG emissions by 136 metric tons annually. Cumulative savings of $329,540 over 20 years. $15,000 is for a streetlight inventory. Palma Village Park LED Upgrade Parks & Rec - Shawn Muir In Progress $210,727 in grant funding GP 6.5 & 6.6 / SP E&S Priority 1 Resolution was approved at City Council 4/14/22 to submit an application for the California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection, and outdoor Access for All Act of 2018 Per Capita Program. Palm Desert has been allocated $210,727 which it will use to replace sidewalk lighting and overhead lighting with LEDs, replace park tables and benches, and add a new pavilion. The City Council requested public outreach be conducted for selection of park furnishings. Outreach is planned for Fall 2022. Photovoltaic Installation Public Works - Ryan Gayler Contract expected to go to City Council in August 2022 PPA with no upfront cost, over $1.75 million in energy cost savings over 20 years GP 6.5 & 6.6 Current project scope proposes to replace or solarize carport structures at three locations including City Hall, Parkview Office Complex, and the Aquatic Center. The total project is estimated to be 979 KW. Two additional sites are being considered. Green Transportation Project Department/Staff Timeline Budget Plan Objectives Description/Notes EV Charger Assessment & Expansion Public Works & Special Programs Assessment completed in May 2022, currently researching funding programs $0 GP 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 6.5 & 6.8 Staff have inventoried the City's current EV chargers for contract and maintenance status; Staff are currently researching grant opportunities to add to the City's EV charging network. Staff will explore possibility of ChargePoint taking over operation and maintenance for CP chargers. Staff have applied to the SCE ChargeReady program to see if we would qualify for their program. If accepted, Staff will present the program for review and approval to City Council. PD Link Public Works - Audrey Nickerson Design: FY 20-22 Construction Phase 1: August 2022 (90-day duration) Construction (phased): FY 22-27 $9.5M (5 yr CIP budget) GP 4.1, 4.4, 4.6, 5.7, 6.5 & 6.8 Approximately 13 miles of new or upgraded bikeway. Phase 1 includes approximately 8.6 miles of Class III shared bicycle facilities. Applied for funding from ATP Grant. Walk & Roll Palm Desert Public Works - Audrey Nickerson Study: FY 21/22 Design: FY 22/23 Construction: FY 23- 27 $3.7M (5 yr CIP budget) GP 3.6, 4.1, 4.3, 4.4, 4.6, 6.5 & 6.8 Resolves gaps in existing bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. 14.5 miles of new or restored bikeway. May get additional funding from ATP grant. Haystack Road Traffic Calming and Safety Public Works - Audrey Nickerson Study: FY 20/21 Design: FY 21/22 Construct Phase 1: August 2022 (90-day duration) Construct Phase 2: FY 22/23 $1,879,020 GP 3.2, 4.3, 4.4 & 5.7 Recommended three phases of improvements to reduce vehicle speed and increase safety on Haystack Road. Phase 1 (construction) includes all-way stop control at Alamo, Chia and Moon, including crosswalks and ADA compliant pedestrian ramps. Phase 2 (design phase) includes Class IV bikeway along north side of Haystack. 1 Environmental Initiatives Tracker Haystack Road & Highway 74 Intersection Modifications Public Works - Audrey Nickerson Commence: August 2022 Duration: 90 days $192,158 GP 4.3 Add crosswalk on Haystack, including striping, signage and signal modifications. Monterey Avenue & Fred Waring Drive Intersection Modification Public Works - Audrey Nickerson Commence: August 2022 Duration: 90 days $42,625 GP 4.1 Convert northbound through/right turn lane to right-turn only lane. Update signal timing. Bike Rack Incentive Program Economic Dev. - Deborah Glickman In Progress / Until funding runs out $20,000 from AQMD fund GP 4.1, 4.4, 4.6, 6.5 & 6.8 City Council approved on 4/14 the proposed Unite Palm Desert Bicycle Incentive Program to allow commercial properties to receive a bicycle rack valued at up to $1,000 following program guidelines. Program will be funded by AQMD air quality improvement funds. Applications have begun to be received and processed. Sustainable Landscaping Project Department/Staff Timeline Budget Plan Objectives Description/Notes Civic Center Pump Station Upgrade Landscape Services - Randy Chavez Expected completion June 2022 $89,800 GP 6.1 & 9.3 / SP E&S Priority 1 Civic Center Pump Station will receive two new Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition Systems (SCADA) hardware and software. The systems will improve irrigation efficiencies and assist staff with managing electrical and water resources. Staff will receive real time information and monitor flow, use, and alarms through a PC. Staff can quickly correct or turn off the system in the event of a system failure rather than manually turn them off. Plant Palette and Vignette Landscape Services - Randy Chavez Planting began May 2022 $100,000 5 yr budget to be approved GP 6.1, 6.2, 6.5 & 9.3 / SP E&S Priority 1 Colorful and water conserving plants and inorganics are being worked into current City planters. The Montereyy Avenue medians between Dinah Shore Drive and Gerald Ford Drive have been the first medians to be planted. Staff plan to upgrade Cook Street medians FY 22/23. Update to Water-Efficient Landscape Code Landscape Services - Randy Chavez Expected to go to Council in August 2022 $0 GP 6.1, 6.2, 9.3 / SP E&S Priority 1 Update to the Water-Efficient Landscape Code to address nuisance, invasive, and toxic plant materials. Recovered Organic Waste Product Procurement Special Programs & Public Works Ongoing / Annually TBD - Will use landscape or project fund where appropriate and Recycle Fund for all other GP 6.5 & 9.4 Per SB 1383, the City must procure 4311.4 tons of organic waste per year. Burrtec is required to ensure we meet our target. They will help the City meet 70% of the requirement through agricultural partnerships and will give compost away at farmer's markets. The City has a project planned at The Retreat to help with dust control at the water basin next door. Staff continue to work on additional city project ideas. Gas-Powered Lawn Equipment Special Programs Incentives expected Summer 2022 $0 (see notes) GP 6.5, 6.6 & 6.8 The State has banned the sale of gas-powered lawn equipment starting in 2024. Staff will work with RPEC to promote incentives from AQMD and other sources as they become available. Promotion should have little to no cost and can be advertised on the City website or EngagePD. Staff will also reach out to CVAG to see if there are partnership opportunities. If there is more extensive outreach such as mailings or classes, we may be able to use AQMD funds. Mayors' Monarch Pledge Special Programs, Public Works, and Parks & Rec Expected completion Summer 2022 Mural $1,500 Public Art Fund; Garden $1000/yr Garden Park R&M Fund GP 6.5, 6.5 & 6.9 2022 Mayor Monarch Pledge was approved at 4/14 Council meeting. Butterfly Garden was installed in the Civic Center Park in 2021, interpretive signs installed March 2022. Butterfly mural to be installed at UCR Palm Desert Center in the summer of 2022. Milkweed will continue to be planted throughout City where advisable. 2 Environmental Initiatives Tracker Waste Reduction Project Department/Staff Timeline Budget Plan Objectives Description/Notes Recycling Education & Outreach Special Programs Ongoing Burrtec & Recycle Fund (see notes)GP 6.5 & 9.4 Staff and Burrtec are continually educating the public on recycling, organics, and more through the websites, BrightSide, mailers, and other outlets. As state mandates continue to change, this education will need to continue as well. Burrtec pays for majority of costs. Recycle Fund pays for education consultant ($50,000/yr) and Recycle Coach software ($3,500/yr). May have additional printing costs as needed. Refillable Bottle Stations Special Programs & Public Works As Funding Allows From City/County Grants and Recycle Fund as able GP 6.5 & 9.4 Staff added 3 new water stations to parks in 2022 using City/County Recycle Grants. There is a need for several more at locations throughout the City. Staff will install dog-friendly stations whenever possible. Stations cost approximately $4,600 each. Edible Food Recovery Special Programs Partnership began July 1, 2022 $11,250 for remainder of 2022; $22,500 for 2023; from CalRecycle LAG Grant GP 6.5 & 9.4 In accordance with SB 1383, the City will be partnering with FIND Food Bank to ensure that all mandatory food generators are following CalRecycle food donation requirements including contract management and record keeping. There are currently 14 Tier 1 generators that need to participate in 2022 and 2023. AB 1276 Single Use Plastics Special Programs and Code Compliance Summer 2022 Recycle Fund for creation and distribution of outreach materials GP 9.4 AB 1276 limits the distribution of single use plastics at food facilities. In May 2022, Council approved a resolution to appoint Code Compliance as the enforcement agency as required by the bill. Staff is developing a mailer, signage, and website resources. Green Building Project Department/Staff Timeline Budget Plan Objectives Description/Notes C&D Management Program Special Programs, Building Safety & Permit Center Ongoing $0 GP 6.7 & 9.4 Staff in conjunction with Burrtec, manage a Construction Debris Management Program to ensure State mandated 65% diversion rate on all C&D projects. Green Pavement Maintenance Public Works Ongoing Funded through Measure A, Fund 213, Gas Tax, Fund 211 GP 6.7 & 9.4 / SP E&S Priority 2 Practice sustainable pavement maintenance including cold-in-place recycling, ARHM (rubberized asphalt), recycled aggregate slurry, rubberized slurry, recycled base, and more. Cal Green Code Update Building Safety - Jason Finley Code Update in 2023 $0 GP 6.7 / SP E&S Priority 2 California Green Building Codes are in the process of being updated, the specifics are unconfirmed. Once finalized in January 2023, Staff will incorporate these new State standards into the City's building code. North Sphere Regional Park Parks & Rec - Shawn Muir In Progress / TBD TBD GP 6.3, 6.6 & 6.7 / SP E&S Priority 2 Staff will be using green building practices at NSRP including water management, energy conservation, and other sustainability factors. An RFP is out for park planning and design and proposals were due 6/24/2022. Leading by Example Project Department/Staff Timeline Budget Plan Objectives Description/Notes Rideshare Program Special Programs - Trisha Stull Ongoing $500-$1500 / yr in AQMD funding GP 6.5 & 6.8 Provides incentives to employees who use green transportation. Funded by AQMD. Additional partnership through IE Commuter provides incentives to employees. Staff have also started a Carpool Match program to connect staff interested in carpooling. 3 Environmental Initiatives Tracker I-REN Programs Special Programs, Development Services, Public Works as appropriate Programs starting 2022 $0 for City (I-REN funded through CPUC fees) GP 6.5 & 6.6 / SP E&S Priority 1 & 4 I-REN is the Inland Empire Regional Energy Network. The City will be eligible to participate in this program for energy efficiency programs, trainings, and other support. Programs will include public building energy efficiency upgrades, workforce education and training, and codes and standards training. New programs are expected to launch at the end of 2022. Green Fleet Public Works - Andy Ramirez & Bertha Gonzalez Surplus request to City Council in August 2022; Purchase expected 2023 $120,000-$140,000 GP 4.6, 4.8, 6.5, 6.6 & 6.8 Staff will be requesting City Council approval to surplus unused equipment and fleet vehicles in August and use the funding to help offset the cost of purchasing three electric vehicles. Vehicles will be compatible with three of our current pool vehicles and purchase will be in conjunction with the installation of charging stations. Virtual Inspections Development Services - Martin Alvarez Ongoing $0 GP 6.5 & 6.8 The use of virtual inspections creates savings in fuel and staff time and leads to reduced GHG emissions. Staff will work on estimating saved mileage and GHG reductions due to this program. Potential project ideas from other cities' plans - To be determined with input from Staff, Council, and RPEC Project Department/Staff Timeline Budget Plan Objectives Description/Notes In House Metric Tracking Special Programs and Public Works Develop ongoing process and determine baseline by December 2022 $0 SP E&S Priority 1 Determine our current baseline on metrics such as energy, water, fuel etc. and their costs and monitor over time to show progress. GHG Inventory Special Programs Go to RFP in 2023 or 2024 Estimated cost $75,000 GP 6.5 To monitor progress towards reducing GHG emissions, an updated GHG inventory should be completed every 5-10 years. The City completed a GHG inventory in 2008 and CVAG completed an updated inventory in 2013. This is a specialized task that would require a consultant. The 2008 inventory cost approximately $50,000 and costs of goods and services have increased. Formal Environmental Initiatives Plan Special Programs Go to RFP in 2024 or 2025 Estimated cost of $50,000-$100,000 Help meet all General & Strategic Plan Goals This staff developed working plan would be feasible as a 3 to 5-year plan, but we should consider hiring a consultant to put together an updated plan for the following five years. They may be able to build off our framework and offer additional activities rather than build a new plan from scratch. Last Sustainability Plan cost approximately $90,000 in 2008. Green Business or Recycling Award Special Programs TBD Possibly Recycle Fund if strictly Recycling Award or TBD, costs would be awards and reception Possibly GP 6.5, 6.6 & 9.4 Work with RPEC to develop an annual Green Business or Recycling Award. A business or other could nominate a business via an award application. Applicants would be rated against a developed criteria and winners chosen for recognition. Could receive a trophy or window sticker and possibly attend a banquet to be recognized. Some cities partner with their waste hauler for recycling awards. LEED Building Requirements Building Safety & Public Works TBD Incorporated into CIP Budgets GP 6.7 / SP E&S Priority 1, 2 & 3 Many cities have various LEED building requirements. Some cities require only municipal buildings to be built to LEED standards (of various levels), other cities put requirements on new construction done by private parties as well. Many cities put this requirements on buildings greater than a specified square footage. Additional some cities do not require LEED but give a job performance tax incentive if they choose to meet LEED requirements. 4 Environmental Initiatives Tracker Bike Racks & Fix-It Stations Public Works - Randy Bowman TBD TBD GP 4.1, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6 & 6.8 Look at installing bike racks and fix-it stations at strategic locations throughout the City. Use of Reclaimed Water Public Works TBD TBD GP 6.1 & 9.3 / SP E&S Priority 1 Staff is going to connect with CVWD to get information on sites using or considering reclaimed water and will continue to look at information as it becomes available. Switch Municipal Accounts to Desert Community Energy's Carbon Free Option Special Programs & Public Works TBD TBD GP 5.6, 6.5, 6.6, 6.8 Explore the option of switching municipal electricity accounts to Desert Community Energy's Carbon Free option. Assess costs and GHG reductions. Promote Water Saving Rebates Special Programs TBD $0 GP 6.1 / SP E&S Priority 1 & 4 CVWD offers several irrigation rebates including a residential landscape rebate, smart controller installation, and a residential rotary nozzle rebate. Staff can promote these rebates and any other available to our residents and business owners. City Turf Replacement Rebate Public Works TBD TBD GP 6.1 & 9.3 / SP E&S Priority 1 & 4 Create a turf replacement rebate program that city residents could apply for in conjunction with CVWD's turf replacement rebate. City Reusable Bottle Promotion Special Events & Special Programs Begin implementation in Fall 2022 TBD from Public Affairs and Recycle Fund GP 9.4 / SP E&S Priority 2 Promote the use of reusable water bottles at City events. Install a bottle refill station at the Civic Center amphitheater and giveaway reusable water bottles at events. Request CVWD water trailer for large events at other locations. Provide Council with reusable bottles and a smaller "refill" station at smaller events. 5 Environmental Initiatives Tracker Correlating Plan Objectives General Plan Item 3 - Land Use & Community Character Goal 1 Quality Spaces. A beautiful cicty with a balance of high quality open spaces and high quality urban areas. Goal 2 Human-Scaled Design. A city designed for people, fostering interaction, activity, and safety. Goal 3 Neighborhoods. Neighborhoods that provide a variety of housing types, densities, designs and mix of uses and services that support healthy and active lifestyles. Goal 4 Districts. A series of unique, destination-oriented districts that provide space for large-format retail, industrial and resort uses in order o increase access to jobs, provide amenities for residents, and enhance the fiscstability of the City. Goal 5 Centers. A variety of mixed use, urban center throughout the city that provide opportunities for shopping, recreation, commerce, employment and arts and culture. Goal 6 Corridors and Connectivitiy. A network of transportaitotn and open space corridors throughout the city that provides a high level of connectivitiy for vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Goal 7 The Arts. A high quality of life and strong community identity enhanced by rich arts and culture programs. Goal 8 Economic Development. A diverse, growing, and resilient local economy. Goal 9 Fiscal Stability. A fiscally sound and sustainable city. Item 4 - Mobility Goal 1 Livable Streets. A balanced transportation system that accomodates all modes of travel safely and efficiently. Goal 2 Parking. An actively managed system of public and private parking facilities that supports future development. Goal 3 Pedestrian Facilities. Integrated pedestrian pathways that connect residences, businesses, and educational and community uses. Goal 4 Bicycle Networks. Well-connected bicycle network that facilitates bicycling for commuting, school, shopping, and recreational trips. Goal 5 Transit Facilities. An integrated transportation system that supports opportunities to use public and private transit systems. 6 Environmental Initiatives Tracker Correlating Plan Objectives Goal 6 Sustainable Transportation. A transportation network that can be built, operated, and maintained within the City's resource limitations. Goal 7 Monitoring. A process to regularly monitor the performance of City transportation facilities. Goal 8 Transportation Innovation. A transportation system that leverages emerging technologies to improve mobility for residents, employees, and visitors. Goal 9 Regional Coordination. The City transportation system operates as an integral element of the larger regional system. Item 5 - Health & Wellnes Goal 1 Public Park Facilities. A network of parks with safe and convenient access and resources for everyone. Goal 2 Economic Opportunity. A city that attracs and supports new businesses, industries, and living wage jobs. Goal 3 Community Agriculture. Private and public community garden space and programs that supply healthy, local, affordable food. Goal 4 Healthy Food. A city with a variety of accessible and affordable healthy food options. Goal 5 Healthcare and Social Services. Affordable, accessible and high-quality health care and social services for all residents. Goal 6 Air Quality. A city with clean, healthy air. Goal 7 Healthy Community Design. Devleopment patterns and urban design comprised of complete, walkable, attractive, family-friendly neighborhoods, districts and corridors that support healthy and active lifestyles. Item 6 - Environmental Resources Goal 1 Water Resources. Protected and readily available water resources for community and environmental use. Goal 2 Visual Resources. A city with stunning views of the hillsides and mountains surrrounding the Coachella Valley. Goal 3 Passive Open Space. Preserved open space areas that represent significant aesthetic, cultural, environmental, economic and recreational resources for the community. Goal 4 Plant and Wildlife Habitat Areas. Plant and wildlife habitat areas that are protected, productive, viable natural resources and exist harmoniously with adjacent development. 7 Environmental Initiatives Tracker Correlating Plan Objectives Goal 5 Climate Change. A resilient community that reduces its contributions to a changing climate and is prepared for the health and safety risks of climate change. Goal 6 Energy. An energy efficient community that relies primarily on renewable and non-polluting energy sources. Goal 7 Green Building. Community building stock that demonstrates high environmental performance through green design. Goal 8 Air Quality. A city with limited sources of air pollution. Goal 9 Cultural Resources and Sites. A city with preserved and protected cultural resources that provide the community with significant cultural, scientific, and educational value. Item 9 - Public Utilities & Services Goal 1 Stormwater. Stormwater management system that leads clean water, basin recharge and increased water retention. Goal 2 Sewer. Sewer management and facility operations that allow for adequate disposal within the community. Goal 3 Water Supply. Ensure a sustainable, clean, long-term water supply. Goal 4 Near Zero Waste. A highly efficient community that produces very little solid waste. Goal 5 Telecommunications and Utilities. A city with high quality telecommunications services and utilities. Goal 6 Education. A city with world-class educational opportunities. Goal 7 Emergency Services. Continue to provide excellent emergency services to the community. Strategic Plan Energy & Sustainability Priority 1 Reduce per capita consumption of energy and water. Priority 2 Promote greater usage of more sustainable material. Priority 3 Encourage all new construction to be net zero energy in design and exceed the current Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) efficiency standards. Priority 4 Encourage owners of all existing properties to voluntarily retrofit them to obtain reductions in energy and water usage. 8