Agenda - 03-11-2008-2 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Smart Growth /Green Building Report Orange Turning Green A. Background The BOCC first adopted two objectives under its Environmental Responsibility Goal on December 5, 2005. The first objective was to develop a countywide environmental leadership policy and institute a standing Environmental Action Committee. The second was to continue, expand, and formally adopt the use of green building standards; construct new facilities and deconstruct outdated facilities in a way that is eco-friendly, utilizes energy conserving measures, and minimizes impacts, on the environment. On April 12, 2007 the BOCC adopted five priorities to enhance the implementation of the second objective of its Environmental Responsibility Goal. The five priorities are: 1. Research and provide suggestions for green building standards through the Comprehensive Plan process and the Planning and Inspections Department regulations for both public and private sector development by the end of 2007. 2. Implementation of green building standards through the Planning and Inspections Department, Building Division regulations for both public and private section development by the end of 2008. 3. Participate in education opportunities related to LEED guidelines through training of building and planning employees and eventually education of the general public and private sector builders. 4. Adopt `smart growth' principles of land development and site planning including `low impact design' guidelines in appropriate sectors of County policy by the end of 2007. 5. Adopt `smart growth' principles of land development and site planning including `low impact design' guidelines in planning and erosion control regulations by the end of 2008. B. Mission Statement This report responds to BOCC priorities adopted on April 12, 2007 to initiate implementation of its 2005 environmental and energy conservation goals. The BOCC Environment Responsibility Goal directs staff to, "Perform all County governmental functions, both internal and external, with a sensitivity and ethic that promotes environmental responsibility and leadership, and an understanding of the actions of government activities as they affect the natural and cultural resources of the County, region, state, nation and world." The adopted Energy Conservation Goal was restated on April 24, 2007 as Principle #3 of eight Principles that underlie the process of updating the various elements of the Comprehensive Plan. The Goal states the following, "Encouraging energy efficiency, lower energy consumption and the use of non- polluting energy resources while promoting air quality protection and an effective transportation system."