Agenda 01-20-2026; 6-a - Community Climate Action Grant (CCAG) – FY 2025-26 Project Selection

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#10 Ranked Project—SolarEquity—St. Joseph's CME Church Solar Project 11 Applicant(Collaborators): Saint Joseph's Christian Methodist Episcopal Church Funding Requested: $28,000 Recommended Funding Level: $28,000 Total Score (Out of 26 pts): 17.83 Project Description: SolarEquity proposes installing a 23.4 kW solar array on St.Joseph's CME Church to reduce utility costs for a historically Black, low-income community.The system will save the church over$1,200 annually and offset about 150 metric tons of carbon emissions over 25 years. Project Benefits:The solar array will cut nearly 6 metric tons of CO2 annually and save the church over$1,200 per year in utility costs, easing financial burdens on a historically low-income congregation. Over its lifespan,the system will offset nearly 150 metric tons of emissions and strengthen energy resilience. As a visible community institution, the church's adoption of solar will also inspire broader climate action within the Northside community. Reviewer Comments:The CFE supports this grant request so that St.Joseph's can complete their original request from 2024 to install solar panels after a roof repair. Once the panels are in place, St.Joseph's community(and Northside in general)would have a place to go for shelter, cooling, etc. during extreme events and power losses.The HRC noted the project's value in supporting long-time residents in an historically underserved community while offering opportunities for cost savings and future community benefit. #11 Ranked Project— Pee Wee— Native Focused Landscaping for 10 Tiny Homes Applicant(Collaborators): N/A Funding Requested: $4,000 Recommended Funding Level: $0 Total Score (Out of 26 pts): 17.68 Project Description:This project will add native, climate-resilient landscaping to 10 affordable tiny homes for formerly homeless residents. The plantings will reduce runoff, support biodiversity, and lower emissions from mowing while beautifying shared spaces. With community input and local expertise,the initiative supports county climate goals and long-term stewardship. Project Benefits: Native landscaping at 10 tiny homes will reduce mowing-related emissions, improve stormwater absorption, and support pollinators and local biodiversity. The project engages residents directly in planning and stewardship, building climate awareness and community pride.These improvements also reduce flooding risks and strengthen ecosystem resilience in underserved neighborhoods. Reviewer Comments:The CFE loved the idea of the native plant gardens but felt the cost per person was high.The HRC appreciated that the project targeted low-income recipients with environment impact. #12 Ranked Project—Town of Chapel Hill — Extension of E-bike Lending Library Program Applicant(Collaborators):The Bicycle Chain, East Coast Electric Speed Shop, and Trek Funding Requested: $25,920 Recommended Funding Level: $0 Total Score (Out of 26 pts): 16.58 Project Description:The Town of Chapel Hill launched a free a-bike lending program in April with enough federal funding to cover a 1-year pilot. We currently offer 18 E-bikes for public use at two local bike shops and 23 E-bikes for staff at more than 7 Town facilities.This program has been very successful and we are seeking support to extend this program another 8-12 months to offer E-bike experiences to more residents and staff.