2026-072-E-County Mgr-Urban Sustainability Solutions-High School Riparian Buffers

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Project Description: Urban Sustainability Solutions will train teachers and youth in certified green‐infrastructure curricula through afterschool and weekend programs. The program will end with planting projects to restore storm‐ damaged riparian buffers, with funds covering training stipends and implementation. Field work will include stream cleanup, buffer restoration, and planting live tree stakes to stabilize stream banks, especially those damaged by tropical storm Chantal. Project Benefits: Restoring low‐lying areas with native vegetation will reduce erosion, stabilize soils, and protect downstream low‐income communities from future storm impacts. These plantings will improve water quality in Bolin Creek by filtering pollutants, increasing biodiversity, and boosting carbon sequestration. The project also safeguards Jordan Lake’s drinking water by preventing sediment and nutrient contamination. Reviewer Comments: The CFE supports this request because it has strong educational and community connections. USS has a solid, proven track record. The HRC appreciated that the community would be involved in this project. The CFE deducted $14,000 that was for the administration of other grants. #3 Ranked Project – Habitat for Humanity – Weatherization & Disaster Resilient Housing Applicant (Collaborators): N/A Funding Requested: $150,000 Recommended Funding Level: $0 Total Score (Out of 26 pts): 20.56 Project Description: Habitat for Humanity of Orange County will expand its Home Repair program to address increased weatherization needs caused by Tropical Storm Chantal, in 11 older, vulnerable homes. Project Benefits: Integrating weatherization into essential home repairs will lower utility bills for low‐income households and reduce approximately 11 metric tons of emissions annually. Improved insulation, HVAC systems, and windows will enhance indoor air quality, comfort, and resilience to extreme weather. Local contractors and materials will support the regional economy while extending the lifespan of affordable housing. Reviewer Comments: The CFE recognizes and values the proposed project and Habitat’s longstanding contributions to the community. The CFE also noted that Habitat has access to a variety of funding sources and has previously received support through this program ($300k). Given the limited funds available, the CFE is thoughtfully distributing resources across a range of organizations, including smaller groups that may particularly benefit at this time. The HRC supports the initiative due to its positive impact on low‐income residents and noted that additional information regarding how beneficiaries would be identified or prioritized would be helpful. #4 Ranked Project – Town of Carrboro – Carrboro Energy Efficiency Program Applicant (Collaborators): Preserving Home Inc., Hope Renovations Funding Requested: $29,145 Recommended Funding Level: $29,145 Total Score (Out of 26 pts): 20.31 Project Description: This initiative trains community leaders to assist more than 230 high‐burden households in cutting energy costs through education, home energy audits, hands‐on projects, and connections to weatherization, rebates, and efficiency upgrades. Project Benefits: Energy audits and education will help residents cut utility costs, lower emissions, and make informed decisions about efficiency upgrades. The program is expected to reduce town‐wide energy use by over 249,000 kWh annually, equivalent to 67.4 metric tons of CO₂e. Households that act on recommendations will benefit from long‐term energy savings and increased home value. Reviewer Comments: Carefully thought‐out project with good metrics to measure success. Applicant is well suited to carry out the project and the costs are relatively modest. Community outreach and partnerships are positive 8Docusign Envelope ID: FE98AD8C-2A26-4FC1-9B3F-6DEB6E3A41EE