Durango, Colorado
Durango participated in the Fall 2015 Leadership STAR Community Program. On June 29, 2017, Durango received a 3-STAR Certification.
Report
- Built Environment
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- BE-1: Ambient Noise & Light
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- Outcomes
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Noise
Option A: Demonstrate that daytime ambient noise levels do not exceed 70 dBa in commercial areas
OR
Option B: Show progress toward locally identified key ambient noise targets
No Credit Light in the Community
Show progress toward locally identified key light targets for light glare and/or light trespass
No Credit Light in the Night Sky
Achieve a sky glow at or below 4 in the Bortle Dark-Sky Scale where the Milky Way is still visible in residential areas
No Credit - Actions
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Local Action 1
Adopt a community noise policy, ordinance, or regulations as needed based upon a local assessmentFull Credit Local Action 2
Adopt a community light policy, ordinance, or regulations as needed based upon a local assessmentFull Credit Local Action 3
Educate the public about standards, effects of excessive exposure, and mitigation techniques for ambient noise or ambient lightNo Credit Local Action 4
Create partnerships to address sources of noise and/or light pollution not subject to the local authorityNo Credit Local Action 5
Develop a database of noise complaints and noise measurements (e.g. roads, industrial, outdoor music venues) or of light issues and neighborhoods targeted for improvementsNo Credit Local Action 6
Establish clear lines of authority for enforcement of nuisance noise violations relative to different noise sourcesNo Credit Local Action 7
Enforce noise standards during the permitting, design, and construction of new large-scale developments that can significantly increase ambient noise levelsNo Credit Local Action 8
Enforce light standards during the permitting, design, and construction of new large-scale developments that can significantly increase ambient light levelsNo Credit Local Action 9
Establish programs that eliminate existing sources of light pollution coming from municipally-owned entitiesNo Credit
- BE-2: Community Water Systems
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- Outcomes
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Drinking Water Quality
Part 1: Demonstrate that the community is not in violation of EPA’s 5% standard for coliform bacteria in water pipes in the past 3 years
AND
Part 2:
Option A: Demonstrate that the water supplied to residents is not in violation of EPA standards for turbidity and water pathogens in the past 3 years
OR
Option B: Decrease the amount of all regulated contaminants over time
Full Credit Secure Water Supply
Part 1: Demonstrate that the height of the water table for subsurface aquifers has been stable or rising
AND
Part 2: Demonstrate that the height of surface waters is within the range to meet expected demand for the next 5 years or is rising
No Credit Safe Wastewater Management
Part 1: Demonstrate that all publicly owned treatment works (POTWs) are in compliance with EPA effluent permits
AND
Part 2: Demonstrate that existing industrial dischargers are in compliance with EPA permits
No Credit Safe Stormwater Management
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit(s) have been obtained prior to discharging stormwater
Full Credit - Actions
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Local Action 1
Adopt a jurisdiction-wide management plan for both water consumption and disposal that provides a clean and secure water supply for all local usesFull Credit Local Action 2
Adopt policies to ensure that the jurisdiction has the authority to enact water conservation measures during periods of droughtFull Credit Local Action 3
Collaborate with a regional water management group that includes other jurisdictions that share the same water sourcesNo Credit Local Action 4
Establish water quality monitoring and public reporting systemsFull Credit Local Action 5
Shift towards a full cost pricing system to ensure that users are paying for the true cost of waterFull Credit Local Action 6
Create programs to guarantee the provision of water to low-income residentsFull Credit Local Action 7
Develop and provide water conservation programs to residents, businesses and agricultural water users in order to help ensure that the community is not depleting its water supplyFull Credit Local Action 8
Manage and upgrade infrastructure to reduce leaks in the system, eliminate contaminants, and achieve other local conservation goalsFull Credit Local Action 9
Implement at least 3 innovative water infrastructure and facility programsNo Credit Local Action 10
Upgrade and improve stormwater and wastewater treatment facilities to meet current and foreseeable needsFull Credit Local Action 11
Engage in restoration projects for critical water bodies that provide usable water for the jurisdiction or stormwater management assistanceNo Credit
- BE-3: Compact & Complete Communities
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- Outcomes
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Density, Destinations, and Transit
Demonstrate that each CCC achieves the following thresholds:
Residential Density:
- Average of at least 12 dwelling units per acre within a ¼-mile walk distance of bus or streetcar stops, and within ½-mile walk distance of bus rapid transit stops, light or heavy rail stations, or ferry terminals
- Average of at least 7 dwelling units per acre within the rest of the CCC boundary
Employment Density: At least 25 jobs per acre
Diverse Uses: At least 7 diverse uses present
Transit Availability: At least 60 weekday trips and 40 weekend trips
Partial Credit Walkability
Demonstrate that each CCC achieves the following thresholds:
- 90% of roadways contain sidewalks on both sides
- 100% of crosswalks are ADA accessible
- 60% of block faces contain street trees at no more than 40 feet intervals
- 70% of roadways are designed for a travel speed of no more than 25 mph
- Minimum intersection density of 90 intersections per square mile
Partial Credit Design
Demonstrate that each CCC achieves the following thresholds:
- 80% of front building setbacks along primarily single-family residential blocks are not more than 25 feet from the property line
- 80% of front building setbacks along primarily commercial blocks are not more than 10 feet from the property line
- 40% of primarily commercial blocks have ground floor street frontages free from blank walls and loading docks, and do not have structured or surface parking as the principal land use along the street
Partial Credit Affordable Housing
Demonstrate that each CCC achieves at least 2 of the following thresholds:
- 10% of total residential units are affordable
- 10% of residential units built or substantially rehabilitated within the last 3 years are dedicated as subsidized affordable housing
- Some of the dedicated long-term affordable housing are deeply subsidized or deeply affordable for very- and extremely low income households
Partial Credit - Actions
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Local Action 1
Demonstrate that the comprehensive plan supports compact, mixed-use developmentFull Credit Local Action 2
Identify areas appropriate for compact, mixed-use development on the community's official future land use mapFull Credit Local Action 3
Adopt regulatory strategies that permit or incentivize increased residential and employment densities and diverse uses in transit-served areas and areas identified for compact, mixed-use developmentFull Credit Local Action 4
Require walkability standards for new development that include sidewalks on both sides of roadways, street trees, ADA accessible crosswalks, roadways designed for maximum travel speeds of 25 mph, and maximum block lengths in transit-served areas and areas identified for compact, mixed-use developmentFull Credit Local Action 5
Require build-to lines for commercial and residential structures in transit-served areas and areas identified for compact, mixed-use developmentFull Credit Local Action 6
Adopt advanced parking strategies in transit-served areas and areas identified for compact, mixed-use developmentNo Credit Local Action 7
Require, incentivize, or subsidize creation of affordable housing in transit-served areas and areas identified for compact, mixed-use developmentFull Credit Local Action 8
Establish a design review board, neighborhood commission, or similar appointed citizen body that provides comments on proposed development projectsFull Credit Local Action 9
Implement programs to preserve and maintain existing subsidized and unsubsidized affordable housing in transit-served areas, compact and mixed-use areas, and areas with rapidly-rising housing costsNo Credit Local Action 10
Increase the percentage of households with access to transitFull Credit
- BE-4: Housing Affordability
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- Outcomes
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Housing and Transportation Costs
Part 1: Demonstrate that there are at least 80% of Census block groups where a household earning the Area Median Income (AMI) would spend less than 45% on housing and transportation combined
AND
Part 2: Demonstrate that there are at least 60% of Census block groups where a household earning 80% AMI would spend less than 45% on housing and transportation combined
No Credit Affordable Housing Production
Option A: Achieve targets for creation of new affordable housing identified in a locally-adopted comprehensive housing strategy
OR
Option B: Demonstrate that 10% of residential units built or substantially rehabilitated in the past 3 years in the community’s Compact & Complete Centers (CCCs) are dedicated as subsidized affordable housing
No Credit Affordable Housing Preservation
Demonstrate no more than 5% loss of subsidized affordable housing units due to expiring subsidies in the past 3 years
No Credit - Actions
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Local Action 1
Develop a comprehensive housing strategyNo Credit Local Action 2
Analyze transit access and transportation costs for neighborhoods with housing affordable to low- and moderate-income householdsNo Credit Local Action 3
When new transit or other major infrastructure investments are planned, analyze the likelihood and extent to which housing costs are anticipated to increase in low- and moderate-income neighborhoods so that appropriate strategies can be developed to preserve and create long-term affordable housingNo Credit Local Action 4
Use regulatory and design strategies to encourage compatible infill and redevelopment with a mix of housing types in neighborhoods close to employment centers, commercial areas, and where transit or transportation alternatives existNo Credit Local Action 5
Require, incentivize, or subsidize creation of affordable housing in transit-served areas and areas identified for compact, mixed-use developmentFull Credit Local Action 6
Collaborate with other jurisdictions to address affordable housing and location efficiency needs in the regionNo Credit Local Action 7
Partner with nonprofit organizations to provide education, counseling, and financial assistance to homebuyers or rentersFull Credit Local Action 8
Implement programs to preserve and maintain existing subsidized and unsubsidized affordable housing in transit-served areas, compact and mixed-use areas, and areas with rapidly-rising housing costsNo Credit Local Action 9
Work with private employers to provide live-near-your-work or employer-assisted housing financial incentivesNo Credit
- BE-5: Infill & Redevelopment
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- Outcomes
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Infill Development
Option A: Increase the percentage of new development in locally-designated infill and redevelopment areas
OR
Option B: Increase the percentage of new development located on infill sites that were previously developed, brownfield, and/or greyfield sites
No Credit Existing Infrastructure
Demonstrate that at least 75% of new housing units in the past 3 years utilized existing water and sewer mains and did not require extending or widening public roadways
No Credit - Actions
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Local Action 1
Develop an inventory of infill, previously developed, brownfield, or greyfield sites of greatest priority and potential for development or redevelopmentNo Credit Local Action 2
Adopt a policy commitment to limited or no expansion of physical jurisdiction boundaries or extension of urban servicesNo Credit Local Action 3
Use regulatory and design strategies to encourage compatible infill and redevelopment with a mix of housing types in neighborhoods close to employment centers, commercial areas, and where transit or transportation alternatives existNo Credit Local Action 4
Educate residents and community groups about the importance of infill and redevelopment, brownfield assessment findings, and design strategies for compatible neighborhood developmentNo Credit Local Action 5
Collaborate with state and federal authorities to advance brownfields cleanupNo Credit Local Action 6
Establish a program to provide information and assistance to owners, potential buyers, and developers regarding brownfield assessments, redevelopment strategies, and available resourcesNo Credit Local Action 7
Support temporary, creative neighborhood uses for vacant properties and greyfieldsNo Credit Local Action 8
Provide financial incentives to encourage infill and redevelopmentNo Credit Local Action 9
Perform proactive zoning enforcement and vacant lot cleanup or maintenance to improve the attractiveness of a redevelopment or blighted area and to deter crimeNo Credit Local Action 10
Target local infrastructure improvements to revitalize redevelopment or blighted areas and catalyze private reinvestmentNo Credit
- BE-6: Public Spaces
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- Outcomes
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Acreage
Provide ample parkland based on population density as follows:
- High: 6.8 acres per 1,000 residents
- Intermediate-High: 7.3 acres per 1,000 residents
- Intermediate-Low: 13.5 acres per 1,000 residents
- Low: 20.3 acres per 1,000 residents
Full Credit Proximity
Demonstrate that housing units in the community are located within a ½-mile walk distance of a public space or park based on population density as follows:
- High or Intermediate-High: 85%
- Intermediate-Low or Low: 70%
No Credit Connectivity
Demonstrate that 90% of households are located within 3 miles of an off-road trail
Full Credit Use and Satisfaction
Option A: Demonstrate that 66% or more of surveyed residents visit a park at least once a year
OR
Option B: Demonstrate that 66% or more of surveyed residents respond favorably regarding the quality of the community’s public space and park system
No Credit - Actions
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Local Action 1
Adopt a parks and/or open space plan that promotes a community-wide network of public spaces that provide recreational, transportation, and environmental benefitsFull Credit Local Action 2
Conduct a study regarding the economic impact of parks and public spaces on the local economy to understand their contributions to community satisfaction and tourismNo Credit Local Action 3
Adopt regulatory strategies or development incentives to create, maintain, and connect parks and public spacesFull Credit Local Action 4
Adopt design guidelines for new public spaces and improvements to existing facilities to strengthen environmental benefits and provide visitor amenitiesNo Credit Local Action 5
Participate in a local or regional alliance working to improve and expand the community-based or regional park systemFull Credit Local Action 6
Create an advisory board to regularly receive feedback from residents and organizations regarding planning, decision-making, and other issues affecting the quality and availability of parks and public spacesFull Credit Local Action 7
Host or partner with a volunteer program to support parks and public space maintenanceFull Credit Local Action 8
Provide assistance for low-income users to access and use parks and public spaces through subsidy, scholarships, and discountsFull Credit Local Action 9
Host programs and events in parks and public spaces that bring the community together and encourage physical activityFull Credit Local Action 10
Consistently invest sufficient capital and operational funding to create and maintain parks and public spacesFull Credit
- BE-7: Transportation Choices
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- Outcomes
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Mode Split
Achieve the following thresholds for journey-to-work trips:
- Drive alone maximum: 60%
- Bike + Walk + Transit minimum: 25%
- Bike + Walk minimum: 5%
No Credit Transportation Affordability
Show that at least 50% of households in the jurisdiction are estimated to spend less than 15% of income on transportation costs
No Credit Transportation Safety
Demonstrate that pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities are making incremental progress towards zero fatalities by 2040, compared to a baseline year not predating 2000
Full Credit - Actions
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Local Action 1
Adopt a bicycle and/or pedestrian master plan that prioritizes future projects to improve safety and access to non-motorized transportationFull Credit Local Action 2
Adopt a complete streets policy that addresses all users, applies to all projects with limited exceptions, and includes specific next steps for implementationNo Credit Local Action 3
Subdivision and other development regulations require walkability standards that encourage walking and enhance safetyFull Credit Local Action 4
Local government offers employee incentives to encourage commuting by modes other than single-occupancy vehiclesFull Credit Local Action 5
Implement at least 2 types of focused enforcement programs to ensure pedestrian, bicycle, and motorist safetyNo Credit Local Action 6
Increase the percentage of households with access to transitFull Credit Local Action 7
Increase the mileage of sidewalks, particularly on arterial or collector roads that connect people with destinationsNo Credit Local Action 8
Increase the mileage of striped or buffered bicycle lanes, cycle-tracks, parallel off-street paths and/or other dedicated facilitiesNo Credit Local Action 9
Establish or support a community-wide public bike share programNo Credit Local Action 10
Construct or retrofit transportation infrastructure to meet standards in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)Full Credit
- Climate & Energy
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- CE-1: Climate Adaptation
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- Outcomes
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Vulnerability Reduction
Demonstrate a measurable reduction in vulnerability in each of the 4 core areas identified locally (Partial credit available)
No Credit - Actions
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Local Action 1
Adopt a climate change adaptation planNo Credit Local Action 2
Require that internal decisions by local government departments use the most current climate science and that staff monitor climate change impactsNo Credit Local Action 3
Develop a committee that includes climate scientists, adjacent jurisdictions, regional coalitions, state and federal agencies, and/or non-governmental organizations for the purpose of understanding and addressing shared vulnerabilitiesNo Credit Local Action 4
Create an education and outreach campaign to engage citizens and businesses in climate change vulnerability reduction effortsNo Credit Local Action 5
Adopt zoning code, building code, or other legally binding regulations that address future climate change threatsNo Credit Local Action 6
Create or enhance programs and services that specifically help address climate change threatsNo Credit Local Action 7
Enforce regulations or offer incentives to encourage residents and businesses to shift behaviors to prepare for future climate change impactsNo Credit Local Action 8
Improve facilities throughout the community to be better prepared for climate change threatsNo Credit
- CE-2: Greenhouse Gas Mitigation
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- Outcomes
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Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reductions
Demonstrate incremental progress towards achieving an 80% reduction by 2050 in community-wide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions
No Credit - Actions
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Local Action 1
Adopt a climate action plan designed to reduce GHG emissions throughout the jurisdictionFull Credit Local Action 2
Require GHG emissions to be considered in broader local government planning processes and decision-makingNo Credit Local Action 3
Create an education and outreach campaign to engage citizens and businesses in GHG reduction effortsNo Credit Local Action 4
Establish a climate change advisory group to engage diverse community stakeholders in identifying and implementing GHG reduction strategiesNo Credit Local Action 5
Modify local government operations and facilities in order to reduce GHG emissions and serve as a leader in the communityFull Credit Local Action 6
Adopt energy efficiency regulations for buildings within the jurisdictionFull Credit Local Action 7
Create incentives to improve opportunities for distributed generation of energyNo Credit Local Action 8
Implement specific programs and services or create facility upgrades that transition the community towards the use of alternatives modes of transportation and low-emissions vehiclesFull Credit Local Action 9
Implement specific programs and services or create facility upgrades that reduce waste in the communityFull Credit
- CE-3: Greening the Energy Supply
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- Outcomes
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Green Vehicles
Part 1: Demonstrate increased ownership of alternative fuel vehicles by residents over time
AND
Part 2: Demonstrate increased ownership of fuel-efficient vehicles by residents over time
No Credit Electrical Energy Supply
Demonstrate that the community receives a portion of its overall energy supply from renewable energy sources
Partial Credit - Actions
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Local Action 1
Adopt a community-wide plan that includes a comprehensive programmatic and policy approach to shift the community towards alternative fuels and renewable energy sources, especially for non-transportation usesFull Credit Local Action 2
Create a policy to ensure that the local government's transportation and non-transportation energy supplies increasingly come from renewable and alternative sourcesNo Credit Local Action 3
Remove zoning, height, and other regulatory restrictions on the development of small-scale renewable energy installations and alternative fueling systemsNo Credit Local Action 4
Establish partnerships with critical energy providers and consumers to match renewable energy sources with community energy needsNo Credit Local Action 5
Adopt a renewable energy or alternative fuel targets for locally owned facilities and vehiclesNo Credit Local Action 6
Create incentive programs to support the development of renewable and alternative fuel infrastructureNo Credit Local Action 7
Use a feed-in tariff or other financial mechanisms to increase the mix of renewable energy sources supplied to residentsNo Credit Local Action 8
Run a net-metering program that encourages the development of small scale renewable energy sourcesFull Credit Local Action 9
Work with state and regional partners to electrify truck stops to reduce idling and unnecessary emissionsNo Credit Local Action 10
Install electric vehicle charging stationsFull Credit Local Action 11
Build the necessary distribution infrastructure to support further investment in renewable energy sourcesNo Credit
- CE-4: Industrial Sector Resource Efficiency
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- Outcomes
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Energy Efficiency
Demonstrate incremental progress towards achieving an 80% reduction by 2050 in the energy use of industrial sector operations
No Credit Water Efficiency
Demonstrate incremental progress towards achieving an 80% reduction by 2050 in the water use of industrial sector operations
No Credit - Actions
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Local Action 1
Adopt a plan designed to improve the resource efficiency of the community's industrial sectorNo Credit Local Action 2
Adopt policies that promote shifts to improved data collectionNo Credit Local Action 3
Adopt regulations or codes that promote the industrial sector to reduce energy and water useNo Credit Local Action 4
Partner with organizations to encourage the collection and reporting of energy and water use data from the industrial sectorNo Credit Local Action 5
Work collaboratively with local industrial sector leaders to set local targets and strategies to reduce energy and water useNo Credit Local Action 6
Create training and educational opportunities for industrial sector employees to learn about current best practices and techniques for reducing energy and water useNo Credit Local Action 7
Administer programs that support the industrial sector's transition to less energy and water intensive practicesNo Credit Local Action 8
Create financial incentives or industry-focused challenges to encourage companies to reduce the intensity of their resource consumptionNo Credit Local Action 9
Develop the necessary infrastructure for industries to transition to less resource intensive practicesNo Credit
- CE-5: Resource Efficient Buildings
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- Outcomes
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Energy Efficiency
Demonstrate incremental progress towards achieving an 80% reduction by 2050 in the energy use intensity of the community’s building stock
No Credit Water Efficiency
Demonstrate incremental progress towards achieving an 80% reduction by 2050 in the water use intensity of the community’s building stock
No Credit Green-Certified Building Stock
Part 1: Increase over time the percentage of non-residential buildings achieving certification in STAR-qualifying comprehensive green building programs
AND
Part 2: Increase over time the percentage of residential units achieving certification in STAR-qualifying comprehensive green building programs
No Credit - Actions
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Local Action 1
Adopt a building energy efficiency plan to improve the energy and water efficiency of commercial, residential, and institutional buildings in the communityFull Credit Local Action 2
Adopt or upgrade building codes to ensure that new and renovated buildings are more water and energy efficientFull Credit Local Action 3
Adopt an energy and water use information disclosure ordinance requiring energy and water users to disclose consumption levelsNo Credit Local Action 4
Create an education and outreach campaign or challenge to engage citizens and businesses in energy and water efficiency effortsFull Credit Local Action 5
Establish a committee to provide recommendations on policies related to resource efficiency in buildings OR integrate this role into the work of existing committeesNo Credit Local Action 6
Work with the local utilities to improve energy efficiency programs and increase sub-metering throughout the communityNo Credit Local Action 7
Train inspectors to enforce water and energy efficiency standards in adopted building codesNo Credit Local Action 8
Create incentives to encourage the construction of energy and water efficient certified buildingsNo Credit Local Action 9
Create a program to help homeowners and renters upgrade to more energy and water efficient homesFull Credit Local Action 10
Renovate local government buildings to improve energy and water use efficiencyNo Credit
- CE-6: Resource Efficient Public Infrastructure
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- Outcomes
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Energy Efficiency
Demonstrate incremental progress towards achieving an 80% reduction by 2050 in energy use by selected public infrastructure [Partial credit available]
Partial Credit Water Efficiency
Demonstrate incremental progress towards achieving an 80% reduction by 2050 in water use by selected public infrastructure [Partial credit available]
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Develop targeted strategies to improve the resource efficiency of public infrastructure systemsNo Credit Local Action 2
Require public infrastructure managers to consider thorough energy and water consumption implications when designing and installing new infrastructure componentsNo Credit Local Action 3
Adopt codes or design standards for new public infrastructure that will increase energy and water efficiencyNo Credit Local Action 4
Partner with state or regional entities that own or operate infrastructure within the jurisdiction to develop strategies to reduce energy and water usageNo Credit Local Action 5
Engage public works and infrastructure managers in voluntary GHG reportingNo Credit Local Action 6
Develop training programs for infrastructure operators on energy and water efficiency techniquesNo Credit Local Action 7
Make specific upgrades to infrastructure systems that will increase energy and water efficiencyNo Credit Local Action 8
Increase sub-metering from specific infrastructure systems to collect better information on energy and water useNo Credit
- CE-7: Waste Minimization
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- Outcomes
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Total Solid Waste
Demonstrate incremental progress towards achieving a 100% reduction by 2050 in total solid waste generated within in the jurisdiction that is disposed of via landfill, waste-to-energy facility, or incinerator
No Credit - Actions
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Local Action 1
Adopt a waste management plan that identifies the community's greatest sources of waste, sets formal waste reduction targets and establishes actions to help reach the community's waste reduction aimsNo Credit Local Action 2
Adopt specific product bans that will significantly advance progress towards waste reduction goalsFull Credit Local Action 3
Create a public education campaign or a focused outreach effort to inform residents and businesses of their roles in achieving waste reduction targetsFull Credit Local Action 4
Develop or participate in a regional coalition that enhances the community's ability to address waste management targetsFull Credit Local Action 5
Implement incentives or enforce regulations ensuring that residents and businesses are working toward community waste reduction targetsNo Credit Local Action 6
Provide services to enable residents and businesses to recycle and reduce their waste footprintFull Credit Local Action 7
Collaboratively create and run at least 2 targeted recycling programs at key locations throughout the communityNo Credit Local Action 8
Operate at least 2 specific waste management programs for critical waste stream types found in the community, such as: organic waste, hazardous waste, electronic waste, and construction / demolition wasteFull Credit Local Action 9
Create a Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) for the communityNo Credit
- Economy & Jobs
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- EJ-1: Business Retention & Development
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- Outcomes
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Businesses
Option A: Demonstrate an increased number of business establishments in the county over time
OR
Option B: Demonstrate an increased number of business establishments in the municipality over time
Full Credit Annual Sales
Demonstrate an increase in annual sales from businesses located in the jurisdiction over time
No Credit Employment
Part 1: Demonstrate an increase in the percentage of residents employed over time
AND
Part 2: Demonstrate a decrease in the unemployment rate of residents over time
Full Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Negotiate project labor agreements, community benefit agreements, and local hiring agreementsNo Credit Local Action 2
Formally engage with the business community on a regular basis to improve conditions and address specific needsNo Credit Local Action 3
Appoint an advisory body to provide recommendations and represent the business community in local decision-makingFull Credit Local Action 4
Engage in regional coordination with other governmental, public, private, and non-governmental entities to attract and retain businesses in the regionNo Credit Local Action 5
Utilize tax incentives to retain or expand businesses, including property tax abatement, local sales tax rebates, and/or tax increment financing (TIF)No Credit Local Action 6
Provide direct financial assistance to businesses in the form of municipal bonds, grants, or loansNo Credit Local Action 7
Support business development activities in special investment zones, such as Business Improvement Districts, Enterprise Zones, or other similar districtsFull Credit Local Action 8
Provide direct services and trainings tailored to the needs of the business communityNo Credit Local Action 9
Provide focused support, resources, and services to young entrepreneurial companies through business incubatorsFull Credit
- EJ-2: Green Market Development
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- Outcomes
-
Community Resource Efficiency
Demonstrate decreased greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity over time
No Credit Green-Certified Building Stock
Part 1: Increase over time the percentage of non-residential buildings achieving certification in STAR-qualifying comprehensive green building programs
AND
Part 2: Increase over time the percentage of residential units achieving certification in STAR-qualifying comprehensive green building programs
No Credit Renewable Energy Use
Demonstrate an increased number of renewable energy certificates (RECs) purchased by residents annually
Full Credit Green Vehicles
Part 1: Demonstrate increased ownership of alternative fuel vehicles by residents over time
AND
Part 2: Demonstrate increased ownership of fuel-efficient vehicles by residents over time
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Amend existing local economic policies and strategies to increase market demand for green products and servicesFull Credit Local Action 2
Adopt policies and regulations that increase overall market demand for green buildings and associated materials, renewable energy products and infrastructure, and recyclable productsNo Credit Local Action 3
Review and amend zoning regulations to remove barriers or provide flexibility for green businessesFull Credit Local Action 4
Create a green purchase policy to ensure that the local government's transportation and non-transportation energy supply increasingly comes from renewable and alternative sourcesFull Credit Local Action 5
Partner with other local governments, community groups, and private entities in the region to articulate an overarching sustainable economic development strategy and work collaboratively to increase demand for green products and servicesNo Credit Local Action 6
Create educational materials to define the larger vision of economic sustainability as one that proactively fosters green businesses, green jobs, and green practicesNo Credit Local Action 7
Create an environmentally preferable purchasing program for local government procurement of safe, healthy, and environmentally responsible productsFull Credit Local Action 8
Create programs to help businesses transition to new green practicesFull Credit Local Action 9
Implement a green business promotion programFull Credit Local Action 10
Install electric vehicle charging stationsFull Credit
- EJ-3: Local Economy
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- Outcomes
-
Community Self-Reliance
Demonstrate that 50% of import sectors have increasing location quotients over the past 3 years
Full Credit Local Financial Institution Deposits
Increase the total funds deposited in locally-owned and operated financial institutions over time
Full Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Conduct an assessment of local economic conditions, including economic leakage and targeted sectors for future investmentFull Credit Local Action 2
Adopt an economic localization plan to increase local production for local consumption and exportNo Credit Local Action 3
Promote purchasing preferences for locally-produced goods and services in anchor institutions, including the local governmentNo Credit Local Action 4
Create or support promotional campaigns to bank locally, buy locally, or buy from small and independent businesses and retailersNo Credit Local Action 5
Provide incentives for businesses that use materials produced within the region and sell their products within the regionNo Credit Local Action 6
Provide support services to targeted sectors to strengthen value chain infrastructure and develop market channelsNo Credit Local Action 7
Connect entrepreneurs and business owners with lenders and investors to facilitate investment in the local economyNo Credit Local Action 8
Support import substitution strategies that positively impact key sectors of the local economyNo Credit
- EJ-4: Quality Jobs & Living Wages
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- Outcomes
-
Median Household Income
Increase real median household income over time
No Credit Living Wages
Demonstrate that 80% of household incomes in the jurisdiction meet or exceed the living wage standard
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Enact a living wage policy for local government employees and contractorsNo Credit Local Action 2
Enact family-friendly workplace policies for all local government employees that include at least 2 of the following benefits: paid sick days, family leave, flexible scheduling, job sharing, and easily available childcareNo Credit Local Action 3
Require that local government contractors provide at least 2 of the following benefits to their employees: family leave, flexible scheduling, job sharing, and easily accessible childcareNo Credit Local Action 4
Align local economic development policy strategies with workforce development programsNo Credit Local Action 5
Support living wage campaigns in the communityNo Credit Local Action 6
Support a Best Places to Work campaign to recognize local businesses that support employees and their familiesNo Credit Local Action 7
Maintain collective bargaining relationships with public employee labor organizations that represent local government workersNo Credit Local Action 8
Provide training programs and assistance to local businesses to encourage them to provide family-friendly workplace policies and extended benefitsNo Credit Local Action 9
Provide job training and assistance programs for employees and employers in professions or sectors where wages are below the living wageNo Credit Local Action 10
Enforce the living wage policy with a living wage officer or equivalent functionNo Credit
- EJ-5: Targeted Industry Development
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- Outcomes
-
Targeted Industry Businesses
Demonstrate an increase in the total number of new businesses in targeted industry sectors relative to growth in non-targeted industries, compared to a baseline year not predating 2000
Partial Credit Targeted Industry Sales
Demonstrate an increase in the annual sales or total value of businesses in targeted industry sectors relative to growth in non-target industries, compared to a baseline year not predating 2000
Partial Credit Targeted Industry Employment
Demonstrate an increase in total employment in targeted industry sectors relative to growth in non-target industries, compared to a baseline year not predating 2000
Partial Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Conduct a local economic analysis or participate in the development of a regional analysis of existing industry sectors to understand current needs and opportunitiesFull Credit Local Action 2
Invest in market studies and research to support the continued growth and expansion of targeted industry sectorsNo Credit Local Action 3
Coordinate or support local and regional associations or formal networks of related businesses in the targeted industry sectorsNo Credit Local Action 4
Coordinate with universities, community colleges, the local Workforce Investment Board, private firms, and other community stakeholders to align research, workforce development, and resources to support targeted industry sectorsNo Credit Local Action 5
Educate residents about the economic impact of targeted industry sectors in the communityNo Credit Local Action 6
Use tax incentives to attract, retain, or expand businesses in targeted industry sectorsNo Credit Local Action 7
Provide direct financial assistance, such as local bonds, grants, or loans, to attract, retain, or expand businesses in targeted industry sectorsFull Credit Local Action 8
Provide capacity building services and support for professionals in emerging and existing targeted industry sectorsNo Credit
- EJ-6: Workforce Readiness
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- Outcomes
-
Trained Workforce
Demonstrate improvements in workforce training outcomes for participants over the past 3 years
No Credit Workforce Mobility
Demonstrate increased post-secondary educational attainment in the community over time
Full Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Adopt a workforce development plan or comprehensive strategy to educate, train, and prepare residents for local employment opportunitiesNo Credit Local Action 2
Align local economic development policy strategies with workforce development programsNo Credit Local Action 3
Require local government contractors and entities receiving financial incentives to prioritize hiring local residentsNo Credit Local Action 4
Participate in and promote community workforce agreements or project labor agreementsNo Credit Local Action 5
Create a workforce development committee to align post-secondary education, workforce development training programs, and economic development strategiesNo Credit Local Action 6
Create data sharing agreements between the local government and private sector employers to maximize the availability and use of data in economic and workforce development planningNo Credit Local Action 7
Produce an annual report that tracks workforce readiness performance measuresNo Credit Local Action 8
Provide support services and training tailored to the needs of the local workforceNo Credit Local Action 9
Support expansion of community college programs to address the educational and training needs of the local workforceNo Credit Local Action 10
Invest in community college facilities and capital improvements to accommodate residents and members of the local workforceNo Credit
- Education, Arts & Community
-
- EAC-1: Arts & Culture
-
- Outcomes
-
Creative Industries
Demonstrate that creative industries represent at least a 5% share of all businesses in the county
No Credit Attendance and Participation
Part 1: Demonstrate that at least 35% of adult residents in the county attend a live performing arts event annually
AND
Part 2: Demonstrate that at least 20% of adult residents in the county visit an art museum annually
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Adopt a strategic plan to protect, enhance, and expand the community's arts and cultural resources and strengthen creative industriesFull Credit Local Action 2
Adopt a percent-for-art ordinance requiring public art to be installed as part of new major public development projectsNo Credit Local Action 3
Establish enterprise zones, arts or cultural districts, or overlay zoning that encourages businesses in the creative industries to cluster together and integrate with surrounding neighborhoodsNo Credit Local Action 4
Collaborate with private, non-profit, or regional organizations to increase access to and participation in the artsFull Credit Local Action 5
Track participation and attendance at major community arts and cultural events, performances, festivals, and programsNo Credit Local Action 6
Provide financial or logistical support to local arts, festivals, performances, or cultural tourismFull Credit Local Action 7
Hire local artists to create artwork, sculptures, or perform in public spacesFull Credit Local Action 8
Develop special programs to advance arts education that is aligned with core curriculum in all public schools, especially early elementary gradesFull Credit Local Action 9
Provide entrepreneurial and workforce development training programs that serve artists, writers, designers, and other creative industries professionalsNo Credit Local Action 10
Ensure that major arts and cultural facilities are accessible to people with disabilitiesNo Credit Local Action 11
Protect and maintain local public artworks and cultural resources for future generationsFull Credit
- EAC-2: Community Cohesion
-
- Outcomes
-
Community Venues
Demonstrate that least 75% of residents live within 1 mile of a community venue that is open to the public and offers free services and/or events for residents
No Credit Neighborhood Cohesion
Demonstrate an increased percentage of neighborhoods reporting positive levels of neighborhood cohesion through community surveys
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Adopt neighborhood plans that guide future development, recommend strategies to create or preserve community venues, and address neighborhood-specific issuesNo Credit Local Action 2
Adopt zoning and development regulations that support or incentivize farmers markets, community gardens, and urban agricultureFull Credit Local Action 3
Provide access to information about community issues, programs, services, and activities that is also accessible to non-English speaking residentsNo Credit Local Action 4
Partner with neighborhood associations, community organizations, and local service providers to identify and address neighborhood-specific needsNo Credit Local Action 5
Support neighborhood advisory councils to encourage dialogue on community issues and build the social capital of neighborhoodsNo Credit Local Action 6
Establish a department with staff assigned to work as liaisons with specific neighborhoodsNo Credit Local Action 7
Provide direct funding and management of at least 2 types of community and neighborhood venuesFull Credit Local Action 8
Provide capacity-building programs to enable community leaders and groups to self-organize, resolve issues, and cultivate leadershipNo Credit Local Action 9
Provide programs that support the development of positive, strong youth leaders, particularly in low-income and/or minority neighborhoodsFull Credit Local Action 10
Provide financial or logistical support for publicly-accessible neighborhood events, activities, and programming, particularly in low-income and/or minority neighborhoodsFull Credit
- EAC-3: Educational Opportunity & Attainment
-
- Outcomes
-
Reading Proficiency
Demonstrate at least 85% of third grade public school students meet or exceed reading proficiency standards
No Credit Graduation Rate
Option A: Achieve a 90% average 4-year adjusted cohort high school graduation rate for all public schools in the jurisdiction
OR
Option B: Demonstrate incremental progress towards a 90% average 4-year adjusted cohort high school graduation rate for all public schools in the jurisdiction in the past 3 years
Partial Credit Graduation Rate Equity
Increase, or maintain at 90% or above, the average 4-year adjusted high school graduation rate for all students in all public schools in the jurisdiction from selected underperforming groups of race/ethnicity, disability, English proficiency, or income
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Engage local education authorities, teachers, families, and young people to advance collaborative decision-making and a community-driven framework for improving educationNo Credit Local Action 2
Strengthen opportunities for parental and community involvement in schoolsNo Credit Local Action 3
Prepare an annual progress report for the public outlining the local school system's performanceNo Credit Local Action 4
Provide funding or other resources to support Head Start programs in communityNo Credit Local Action 5
Provide full-day kindergarten for low-income students and students with special needsFull Credit Local Action 6
Program or support after-school activities, tutoring, extended day- and/or summer programs for students who need additional academic assistanceNo Credit Local Action 7
Offer multiple pathways to graduation as a way to improve educational outcomes for studentsNo Credit Local Action 8
Implement career pathway initiativesNo Credit
- EAC-4: Historic Preservation
-
- Outcomes
-
Local Historic District(s)
Designate at least one local historic district with specific design standards and a process for reviewing new projects
Full Credit Preserved Structures and Sites
Increase over time the annual average number of structures and sites designated as local historic landmarks, added to local historic districts, and/or rehabilitated, restored, or converted through adaptive reuse
No Credit Green Retrofits
Increase over time the annual number of historic structures retrofitted or rehabilitated with energy efficiency or clean energy technologies
No Credit Economic Impact
Demonstrate that historic preservation efforts have had a positive, measurable impact on the local economy
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Create an inventory of designated and eligible historic structures and sites in the community (Bonus: Inventory includes archeological resources)No Credit Local Action 2
Adopt a historic preservation plan that establishes community priorities for preservationFull Credit Local Action 3
Adopt a historic preservation ordinance that establishes procedures for designation of local historic districts and landmarks and authorizes establishment of a historic preservation commissionFull Credit Local Action 4
Adopt land use, zoning, and design regulations that support and reinforce existing community character in older and historic neighborhoods and commercial areas, and promote development of sensitive, compatible infillFull Credit Local Action 5
Collaborate with local non-profit or for-profit entities to support local events, recognition programs, and tourism efforts that celebrate and leverage the economic value of local historic resourcesNo Credit Local Action 6
Achieve Certified Local Government status, as recognized by the National Park ServiceFull Credit Local Action 7
Establish a demolition by neglect ordinanceNo Credit Local Action 8
Provide incentives to encourage the rehabilitation of historic buildings and reinvestment in older and historic neighborhoods and commercial areasNo Credit Local Action 9
Provide local financial assistance to low- and moderate-income homeowners, residents, seniors, and/or businesses vulnerable to rising real estate values and maintenance costs associated with historic preservationNo Credit Local Action 10
Provide technical assistance to property owners or non-profit organizations seeking to add properties or historic districts to the National Register of Historic Places or the comparable state registerNo Credit
- EAC-5: Social & Cultural Diversity
-
- Outcomes
-
Diverse Community Representation
Demonstrate that appointments to local advisory boards and commissions reflect the racial and ethnic diversity of the community
No Credit Social and Cultural Events
Demonstrate that public events celebrating social and cultural diversity are held in the community
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Conduct an assessment of the community's social and cultural diversity to inform local government actionsNo Credit Local Action 2
Use the Diversity Index to analyze the effectiveness of policies, programs, service delivery, and infrastructure investmentsNo Credit Local Action 3
Adopt a policy to encourage diversity in local government appointments to advisory boards and commissionsNo Credit Local Action 4
Promote events and programs that recognize and celebrate social and cultural diversity in the communityNo Credit Local Action 5
Provide equity and diversity training for local government staffNo Credit Local Action 6
Establish an office within the jurisdiction to ensure access, equity, and inclusion in policies, programs, procedures, and service deliveryNo Credit Local Action 7
Provide leadership and training programs that encourage and support diverse representation on local boards and commissionsNo Credit Local Action 8
Provide programs that support the development of positive, strong youth leaders, particularly in low-income and/or minority neighborhoodsFull Credit Local Action 9
Provide financial or logistical support to programs, activities, or events that celebrate and deepen understanding and respect for the community's diversityNo Credit
- Equity & Empowerment
-
- EE-1: Civic Engagement
-
- Outcomes
-
Voting
Increase the percentage of voters participating in local elections over time
No Credit Volunteerism
Option A: Demonstrate that at least 30% of residents in large jurisdictions or 35% of residents in small or mid-sized jurisdictions volunteered in the past year.
OR
Option B: Demonstrate an increase in the percentage of residents who volunteered over the past 3 years.
No Credit Sense of Empowerment
Option A: Demonstrate that at least 50% of residents believe they are able to have a positive impact on their community based on a local survey
OR
Option B: Increase over time the percentage of residents who believe they are able to have a positive impact on their community based on local surveys
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Adopt a policy to encourage diversity in local government appointments to advisory boards and commissionsNo Credit Local Action 2
Adopt guidelines to instruct local government agencies or departments about how to successfully engage residentsNo Credit Local Action 3
Conduct education campaigns about the electoral process, voter registration and participation, and other issues related to civic literacyNo Credit Local Action 4
Partner with business, civic, and neighborhood organizations to increase voter registration and turnout OR volunteer opportunities and participation OR ongoing civic engagement in local decision-makingNo Credit Local Action 5
Provide training to local government agencies or departments on successful public engagement techniquesNo Credit Local Action 6
Establish regular, ongoing opportunities for elected officials and/or senior government staff to meet with residents to answer questions and listen to concernsNo Credit Local Action 7
Create a volunteer program for residents to assist the local government with special events, services, and operationsFull Credit Local Action 8
Provide support and resources to local community groups to help them achieve their missionsFull Credit Local Action 9
Create a mock youth voting program to teach children about democracy, elections, and the importance of votingNo Credit
- EE-2: Civil & Human Rights
-
- Outcomes
-
Resolution of Complaints
Demonstrate that all civil and human rights complaints in the past 3 years have been investigated and violations redressed in a timely manner
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Adopt specific policies or amend the jurisdiction's charter to specifically protect the civil and human rights of all community residentsFull Credit Local Action 2
Establish an office within the jurisdiction with the authority and capacity to investigate civil and human rights complaintsNo Credit Local Action 3
Conduct local public education campaigns regarding civil and human rights, such as the process for filing complaintsNo Credit Local Action 4
Establish an independent civil and/or human rights commission to ensure access, equity, and inclusionFull Credit Local Action 5
Provide training for police officers focused on non-discrimination and conflict preventionNo Credit Local Action 6
Operationalize the local government's civil and human rights policies in programs, services, and operationsNo Credit Local Action 7
Provide language translation or interpretation services to ensure that residents have access to information about local government programs, services, and operationsFull Credit
- EE-3: Environmental Justice
-
- Outcomes
-
Reduced Risk and Exposure
Demonstrate progress towards achieving targets for prioritized environmental justice sites identified in a locally-adopted plan
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Create an Environmental Justice Collaborative Group (EJCG) composed of residents, stakeholders, and environmental professionals to assess risk and exposure, set targets, implement projects, and monitor improvementsNo Credit Local Action 2
Assess the risk and exposure to toxins related to the community's prioritized environmental justice sitesNo Credit Local Action 3
Adopt an environmental justice plan aimed at reducing polluted and toxic environments in the jurisdictionNo Credit Local Action 4
Establish targets for each of the prioritized environmental justice sites related to air or water improvementsNo Credit Local Action 5
Incorporate environmental justice criteria and priorities into zoning, land use planning, permitting policies, and development of new projectsNo Credit Local Action 6
Create community benefit agreements (CBAs) for projects associated with prioritized environmental justice sites and proposed development projects with environmental justice concernsNo Credit Local Action 7
Create an interdepartmental working committee within the local government to guide and support environmental justice activitiesNo Credit Local Action 8
Monitor and enforce environmental regulations for existing facilities that impact environmental justice sitesNo Credit Local Action 9
Implement projects to reduce acute exposure to contaminants and risks associated with environmental justice sitesNo Credit
- EE-4: Equitable Services & Access
-
- Outcomes
-
Equitable Access and Proximity
Demonstrate increased access and proximity by residents of diverse income levels and race/ethnicity to the following community facilities, services, and infrastructure:
- Public transit facilities and service levels
- Public libraries
- Public schools
- Public spaces
- Healthful food
- Health and human services
- Digital access or high speed internet
- Urban tree canopy
- Emergency response times
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Adopt an equity plan that evaluates current conditions in the community and establishes targets to improve equitable access and proximity in at least the categories identified in the outcome measureNo Credit Local Action 2
Adopt an equity or social justice policy that establishes a clear commitment to equity in local government decision-making, activities, and investmentsNo Credit Local Action 3
Promote events and programs that recognize and celebrate social and cultural diversity in the communityNo Credit Local Action 4
Publicize efforts to improve equitable access and proximity to community facilities, services, and infrastructureNo Credit Local Action 5
Establish partnerships that engage key community groups and stakeholders in activities to advance equitable access and proximity to facilities, services, and infrastructureNo Credit Local Action 6
Provide equity and diversity training for local government staffNo Credit Local Action 7
Modify the deployment of local programs and services to reduce disparities within the categories identified in the outcome measureNo Credit Local Action 8
Construct new facilities and infrastructure in locations that reduce existing disparities within the categories identified in the outcome measureNo Credit
- EE-5: Human Services
-
- Outcomes
-
Human Services Assistance
Reduce the percentage of people in selected priority populations who need assistance obtaining selected priority human services
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Conduct a community needs assessment to identify priority service needs and resources, including the needs of priority populationsNo Credit Local Action 2
Adopt a human services plan designed to guarantee that basic human needs are met in the communityNo Credit Local Action 3
Establish an advisory committee that provides ongoing consultation to local departments and agencies responsible for providing priority human servicesNo Credit Local Action 4
Develop public education campaigns to inform residents about available service programs to help meet basic needsNo Credit Local Action 5
Implement information technology solutions to improve client support services and managementNo Credit Local Action 6
Monitor and evaluate the quality, comprehensiveness, and effectiveness of priority human services for selected priority populationsNo Credit Local Action 7
Equip human services personnel with the skills and training needed to effectively improve the well-being of the community's priority populationsNo Credit Local Action 8
Support the provision of high quality, priority human services in coordination with non-governmental service providersNo Credit Local Action 9
Upgrade existing facilities or build new facilities to better provide needed human servicesNo Credit
- EE-6: Poverty Prevention & Alleviation
-
- Outcomes
-
Poverty Reduction
Demonstrate progress towards no residents living below the poverty line by 2025
Partial Credit Equitable Poverty Reduction
Demonstrate a decrease over time in the percentage of residents living below the poverty line from at least 3 population subgroups
Full Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Adopt a community-wide plan to reduce povertyNo Credit Local Action 2
Create a team of local government staff to work collaboratively and coordinate with non-governmental organizations to provide high-quality services and reduce povertyNo Credit Local Action 3
Develop public education campaigns to inform residents about how to enroll in available service programs to help meet basic needsNo Credit Local Action 4
Establish or support programs that reduce the costs of basic needs for low-income householdsFull Credit Local Action 5
Implement supportive workplace programs for people living at or near the poverty lineNo Credit Local Action 6
Create programs to improve employment opportunities for low-income individuals by strengthening hard and soft work skillsNo Credit Local Action 7
Provide child development programs for children living at or near the local poverty lineNo Credit
- Health & Safety
-
- HS-1: Active Living
-
- Outcomes
-
Active Adults
Demonstrate that 21% or less of adults aged 20+ report no leisure time physical activity within the past month
Full Credit Active Kids
Option A: Increase the percentage of high school students that are physically active for 60 minutes per day on 5 or more days
OR
Option B: Increase the percentage of public schools that require some form of physical activity daily, such as physical education classes or recess
Partial Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Include a chapter, section, or plan element focused on active living or active transportation in the comprehensive plan or transportation planFull Credit Local Action 2
Require or incentivize bicycle and pedestrian amenities in new major development projects in high-density, mixed-use areas or near transit stationsFull Credit Local Action 3
Create guidelines to encourage incorporation of active building design features in new public, commercial, office, and multi-family residential buildingsNo Credit Local Action 4
Establish school siting guidelines that give preferential considerations to locations that maximize the number of students who can walk or bicycle safely to schoolNo Credit Local Action 5
Create an advisory board to advise the local government on issues related to planning, policies, code requirements, and other actions affecting active living in the communityFull Credit Local Action 6
Achieve recognition as a Bicycle-Friendly Community or Walk-Friendly CommunityFull Credit Local Action 7
Appoint a physical activity specialist within the local health department to serve as a liaison with relevant local government departments or agenciesNo Credit Local Action 8
Host or partner with community groups to support at least 2 programs that encourage active living for adults and kidsFull Credit Local Action 9
Implement a local program that systematically improves bicycle and pedestrian amenities community-wideFull Credit Local Action 10
Provide at least 3 types of active recreation facilities that are available for community useFull Credit Local Action 11
Enable joint use of school-based recreation facilities during non-school hoursFull Credit
- HS-2: Community Health & Health System
-
- Outcomes
-
Health Outcomes
Demonstrate that the county is a Top US Performer in regards to morbidity and mortality indicators
Partial Credit Health Behaviors
Demonstrate that the county is a Top US Performer in regards to key behaviors that impact health
Partial Credit Clinical Care
Demonstrate that the county is a Top US Performer in regards to quality of clinical care, including access to health care
Partial Credit Quality of Local Health System
Option A: Demonstrate that at least one hospital in the county is recognized as a top performer by the Joint Commission
OR
Option B: Demonstrate that the local public health department is accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB)
OR
Option C: Demonstrate that at least 30% of public health clinicians are board certified in their specialty areas and ancillary staff hold professional certification in their respective fields
Partial Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Conduct a comprehensive community health assessment, which includes data collection and analysis of public health conditions, trends, and problems affecting the communityFull Credit Local Action 2
Develop a community health improvement plan to strengthen the delivery of health services and improve community healthFull Credit Local Action 3
Adopt a health in all policies statement or policy commitment for local decision-makingNo Credit Local Action 4
Collaboratively engage the public in the assessment of community health problems and developing strategies to improve the delivery of health servicesNo Credit Local Action 5
Collaboratively engage the local public health department and relevant local government departments or agencies to integrate health considerations into local plans and policies that affect the built environment, physical activity, and access to fresh foodNo Credit Local Action 6
Provide information and education to the public regarding health issues and available local programs and services that support prevention and wellnessFull Credit Local Action 7
Demonstrate that the local public health department, local government, or major hospital has received HealthLead workplace accreditationNo Credit Local Action 8
Use a performance management system to monitor and improve health services and programs that promote positive health outcomes and expand access to health careNo Credit Local Action 9
Conduct health impact assessments (HIAs) on proposed infrastructure investments and development projects to increase positive health outcomes and minimize adverse impactsNo Credit
- HS-3: Emergency Prevention & Response
-
- Outcomes
-
Superior Fire Protection
Achieve a Class 4 ISO rating or better
Full Credit Emergency Response Times
Demonstrate that 90% of response times are in compliance with standards set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
No Credit National Incident Management System
Demonstrate that the community is in compliance with the National Incident Management System (NIMS)
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Develop a NIMS-compliant local inventory of assets and resources available for emergency response and mutual aid requestsFull Credit Local Action 2
Publish information to encourage residents to develop emergency kits and evacuation plans and encourage businesses to develop emergency procedures and shelter-in-place plansNo Credit Local Action 3
Participate in interstate, statewide, regional, or inter-jurisdictional mutual aid response systemsFull Credit Local Action 4
Participate in a regional emergency planning commissionFull Credit Local Action 5
Adopt a local comprehensive plan for emergency response that include provisions for evacuating low-income, disabled, and other persons likely to need assistanceFull Credit Local Action 6
Participate in training drills that involve the public and emergency management personnel from multiple departments and/or multiple jurisdictionsNo Credit Local Action 7
Perform an annual review or assessment of plans, procedures, resources, and trainings based on emergency response incidents and demandsNo Credit Local Action 8
Achieve accreditation by the Emergency Management Accreditation Program (EMAP)No Credit Local Action 9
Host an active Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) or Medical Reserve Corps (MRC)Full Credit Local Action 10
Distribute emergency kits or supplies to residents, particularly low-income and vulnerable populationsNo Credit
- HS-4: Food Access & Nutrition
-
- Outcomes
-
Local Fresh Foods
Option A: Demonstrate an increase over the past 3 years in the amount of fresh food produced through local urban agriculture
OR
Option B: Demonstrate an increase over the past 3 years in the amount of fresh food sold locally at farmers markets or other direct farm-to-consumer activities
No Credit Food Security and Assistance
Demonstrate an increase over the past 3 years in the ability of low-income families to access low-cost, healthful food
Full Credit Access to Healthful Food
Option A: Demonstrate an increase over the past 3 years in the percentage of residents within a walkable ¼-mile of a healthful retail food outlet
OR
Option B: Demonstrate a decrease over the past 3 years in the percentage of residents living in a urban or rural food desert
No Credit School Nutrition
Demonstrate an increase over the past 3 years in the food service sales of fresh fruits and vegetables in the largest public school district
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Conduct an assessment of the local food system, including existing policies and programs that increase access to healthful food and nutrition educationFull Credit Local Action 2
Adopt zoning and development regulations that allow farmers markets, community gardens, and urban agricultureFull Credit Local Action 3
Adopt zoning and development regulations that limit or prohibit the sale of unhealthful foodsNo Credit Local Action 4
Adopt menu-labeling requirements or regulations that discourage, tax, or prohibit the sale of unhealthful foods or beveragesNo Credit Local Action 5
Demonstrate that the local public school district has adopted a model school wellness policyFull Credit Local Action 6
Establish a local or regional food policy council that includes health professionals, community organizations, schools, farmers, and/or related businessesFull Credit Local Action 7
Develop public outreach materials, classes, or workshops for residents to learn about food, nutrition, and gardening OR develop public outreach materials to promote food assistance programsFull Credit Local Action 8
Demonstrate that local schools or the public school district has certification from the USDA Healthier US Schools Challenge or an award from the Alliance for a Healthier Generation in the past 3 yearsNo Credit Local Action 9
Purchase and sell healthful food at facilities owned, leased, and operated by the local governmentNo Credit Local Action 10
Implement an "Increase Your Food Bucks" program for farmers marketsFull Credit Local Action 11
Provide incentives for healthful retail food outlets to locate in underserved areas or for mobile vendors that only sell fresh foodNo Credit
- HS-5: Indoor Air Quality
-
- Outcomes
-
IAQ Complaints to School District
Decrease the number of student, parent, and staff complaints to the public school district regarding indoor air quality (IAQ) over time
No Credit IAQ Complaints to Enforcement Agency
Decrease the number of tenant complaints regarding IAQ over time
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Prohibit smoking in all enclosed public places, including restaurants, bars, and workplacesNo Credit Local Action 2
Prohibit smoking in multi-family buildings community-wide OR residential buildings controlled by the local housing authority OR affirm by local ordinance the right for landlords to legally establish smoke-free rental unitsNo Credit Local Action 3
Require all new or substantially renovated local government and school buildings to incorporate advanced ventilation standardsNo Credit Local Action 4
Conduct local public education campaigns regarding prevention and safe remediation of common indoor air pollutantsNo Credit Local Action 5
Reduce or eliminate toxic pesticide use in locally owned or managed buildings through the use of integrated pest management (IPM) techniquesNo Credit Local Action 6
Address residential IAQ problems related to mold, pests, and other hazards through inspections and enforcement using authority from the state or local housing code or public health codeNo Credit Local Action 7
School district implements a system-wide IAQ management program to monitor and address IAQ problems (Bonus: School district has received an EPA Tools for Schools award or has been recognized as an IAQ Champion in the past 3 years)No Credit Local Action 8
Provide free, subsidized, or at-cost supplies to test and monitor IAQ to prevent harm from common pollutantsNo Credit Local Action 9
Provide grants or loans to remediate indoor air pollution problems in low-income homes or affordable rental unitsNo Credit
- HS-6: Natural & Human Hazards
-
- Outcomes
-
Location-Specific Hazards
Part 1:
Option A: Reduce over time the number of homes below code standards that are located in designated high risk areas
OR
Option B: Reduce over time the percentage of residents living in designated high risk areas
AND
Part 2: Reduce over time the critical infrastructure below code standards that is located in designated high risk areas
No Credit Full Community Hazards
Demonstrate increased resilience to hazard threats over time
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Develop a hazard mitigation action plan that includes an all-hazard vulnerability assessment of the community's primary hazard threatsFull Credit Local Action 2
Develop a post-disaster plan that addresses long-range redevelopment issues such as land use, economic development, housing, infrastructure, public services, and environmental restorationNo Credit Local Action 3
Increase community awareness of natural hazards through education and outreach materialsNo Credit Local Action 4
Integrate an all-hazard vulnerability assessment or other key local hazards information into the community's comprehensive planFull Credit Local Action 5
Adopt zoning regulations that limit development in areas of high hazard vulnerabilityFull Credit Local Action 6
Enact building codes with heightened standards for buildings in areas of high hazard vulnerabilityFull Credit Local Action 7
Create insurance or incentive structures to help equitably remove residents from hazardous situationsNo Credit Local Action 8
Build or renovate locally-owned public facilities to meet higher building code standards to be used as shelters, command centers, and to set an example for the communityNo Credit Local Action 9
Implement highest priority utility improvements listed in the hazard mitigation planNo Credit
- HS-7: Safe Communities
-
- Outcomes
-
Violent Crime Rate
Demonstrate that the average violent crime rate for the past 3 years is below the following thresholds:
- 5.5 homicides per 100,000 residents
- 70 incidents of rape or attempted rape per 100,000 residents
- 462.7 aggravated assaults per 100,000 residents
No Credit School Violence
Demonstrate that the average number of incidents of school violence is less than 10 per 1,000 students for all public schools in the jurisdiction
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Conduct a survey of community perceptions of safety recognizing that some crimes are not reported and to illuminate safety issues that need to be addressedNo Credit Local Action 2
Adopt a safe communities strategic plan ("the plan") with a comprehensive, balanced approach that includes violence prevention, intervention, suppression and enforcement, and reentry strategiesNo Credit Local Action 3
Educate the public and the media about the plan, its implementation, and successful programs and strategiesNo Credit Local Action 4
Develop partnerships with local agencies, nonprofit organizations, schools, and residents to implement the strategies and programs recommended in the planNo Credit Local Action 5
Establish cross-agency coordination and procedures to support balanced implementation of the planNo Credit Local Action 6
Perform ongoing data collection, evaluation, and monitoring from multiple agencies to track trends and identify emerging community needsNo Credit Local Action 7
Implement violence prevention programs and strategies to address community-identified risk and protective factorsNo Credit Local Action 8
Implement school-based violence prevention programs and strategies, particularly in highly impacted, urban, and at-risk neighborhoodsNo Credit Local Action 9
Develop violence intervention programs and strategies to support at-risk families and youth and to prevent the escalation of violenceNo Credit Local Action 10
Adopt violence suppression and enforcement programs and strategies that support and build trust within the communityNo Credit Local Action 11
Create or support a multi-faceted, monitored reentry program for ex-offenders that includes training, education, mentoring, and employment opportunities and other support services to reduce recidivismNo Credit
- Natural Systems
-
- NS-1: Green Infrastructure
-
- Outcomes
-
Designated Green Infrastructure
Option A: Demonstrate that 35% of the jurisdiction’s land area has protected vegetated surfaces performing a minimum of 2 of the following functions:
- Localized cooling through tree canopy cover, green roofs, or green walls
- Water management through wetlands, stream buffers, and permeable surfaces
- Recreation through parks and/or greenways
OR
Option B: Demonstrate at least a 2% annual average increase in land area with protected vegetated surfaces over at least 3 data points
No Credit Green Infrastructure Distribution
Demonstrate that 85% of the population lives within a ½-mile walk distance from green infrastructure features that are performing a minimum of 2 of the following functions:
- Localized cooling through tree canopy cover, green roofs or green walls
- Water management through wetlands, stream buffers, and permeable surfaces
- Recreation through parks and/or greenways
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Create a community-wide green infrastructure plan that is integrated with other relevant local plansFull Credit Local Action 2
Adopt local design criteria and associated codes that require proactive green infrastructure practices for new developmentsFull Credit Local Action 3
Adopt a policy requiring relevant departments be engaged during early reviews of proposed developments to ensure that project sites are evaluated for green infrastructure potential and environmental protections are put in place prior to constructionNo Credit Local Action 4
Partner with key community groups and other stakeholders to ensure that green infrastructure practices are used in appropriate settingsNo Credit Local Action 5
Create incentive programs to encourage land owners to adopt green infrastructure practices that link to broader green infrastructure systemsNo Credit Local Action 6
Establish a green infrastructure monitoring program and regularly report on status of desired outcomesNo Credit Local Action 7
Increase the percentage of funding invested in green infrastructureNo Credit Local Action 8
Upgrade public spaces and public buildings based upon locally-adopted or recognized best practices in green infrastructure. Where possible, create demonstration projects to enhance public supportNo Credit Local Action 9
Provide for ongoing maintenance of green infrastructure at levels required to maintain evapotranspiring functionsNo Credit
- NS-2: Invasive Species
-
- Outcomes
-
Invasive Species Prevention
Show that no new invasive species have established themselves in the last 5 years in priority natural systems areas and critical entry points
No Credit Invasive Species Containment
Show that existing invasive species have not moved into priority natural systems areas and critical entry points
No Credit Invasive Species Eradication
Option A: Eradicate existing invasive species from priority natural systems areas and critical entry points
OR
Option B: Demonstrate progress towards targets identified in the community’s local integrated pest management plan
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Develop a community-wide invasive species integrated pest management planNo Credit Local Action 2
Adopt local ordinance requiring control of listed priority invasive species or enact a native plant ordinance for private and public landscapingFull Credit Local Action 3
Partner with local volunteer groups or neighborhood associations to restore priority natural systems areas by planting native plants or improving local wildlife habitatNo Credit Local Action 4
Partner with local volunteer groups to monitor vector zones or areas at greatest risk of invasive species invasion, and organize "weed pulls" and other invasive management actionsFull Credit Local Action 5
Create a public education campaign or targeted outreach effort to inform residents and/or plant or animal sellers about the hazards of invasive speciesFull Credit Local Action 6
Use incentive programs to encourage local businesses and private owners to grow and sell native or desirable plants and animals and not sell invasive species or other harmful plants and animalsNo Credit Local Action 7
Enforce regulations to control the use and sale of listed invasive speciesNo Credit Local Action 8
Ensure that all local government-owned buildings use native plants or non-invasive species in landscapingNo Credit Local Action 9
Take actions to prevent the spread of invasive species, especially in priority natural systems areas, such as monitoring, eradication, or other control programsFull Credit
- NS-3: Natural Resource Protection
-
- Outcomes
-
Priority Natural System Areas
Option A: Achieve targets for acres of land preserved in priority natural systems areas identified in a locally-adopted natural systems or preservation plan
OR
Option B: Demonstrate incremental progress towards achievement of targets for acres of land preserved identified in a locally-adopted natural systems or preservation plan
No Credit Wetlands, Streams and Shoreline Buffers
Achieve no-net-loss of these critical resources
No Credit Connectivity
Increase the area of land directly connected to regional natural systems in order to improve ecosystem services
No Credit Restoration
Reduce the difference between the actual acreage restored and targeted acreage established in the natural systems plan or land conservation plan
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Develop a plan to protect and restore natural resources through land conservation, corridor connectivity, and restoration of biological integrity and functionFull Credit Local Action 2
Adopt land use regulations that establish appropriate wetland, stream, and shoreline buffer widths and adjacent land usesNo Credit Local Action 3
Create an advisory board to inform land conservation and restoration activitiesFull Credit Local Action 4
Partner with adjacent jurisdictions, state and federal agencies, and local or regional non-profit organizations to advance land conservation and restoration effortsNo Credit Local Action 5
Sponsor educational and outreach activities to increase ecological literacy and knowledge about natural resource protectionNo Credit Local Action 6
Adopt land use strategies to incentivize permanent land conservationNo Credit Local Action 7
Implement local and market-based financing strategies to acquire land or development easements, or fund restoration and maintenance activitiesNo Credit Local Action 8
Restore, maintain, and monitor conserved natural lands to increase natural resource resilience, adaptability, and biological integrityFull Credit
- NS-4: Outdoor Air Quality
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- Outcomes
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Concentration and Emissions
Option A: Achieve attainment or maintenance status for all measured criteria pollutants
OR
Option B:
Part 1: Demonstrate a decrease in the annual concentration of the non-attainment criteria pollutant(s) that have the greatest impacts on public health, specifically PM 2.5, PM10, and ozone
AND
Part 2: Demonstrate a decrease trend in the annual number of days in which the Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeds 100 over the past 5 years
Partial Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Adopt regulatory strategies that permit or incentivize increased residential and employment densities and diverse uses in transit-served areas and areas identified for compact, mixed-use developmentFull Credit Local Action 2
Adopt advanced parking strategies in transit-served areas and areas identified for compact, mixed-use developmentNo Credit Local Action 3
In collaboration with a local university or health department, conduct a study to evaluate the health impacts of acute exposure to outdoor air pollutants, particularly in consideration of environmental justice and equity impactsNo Credit Local Action 4
Collaborate with local industrial operations to reduce and minimize the release of noxious odors in the communityNo Credit Local Action 5
Partner with a local or regional organization to support one or more transportation management association(s) that promote rideshare programs and incentives for commuters to use alternative modes of transportation to work other than single-occupancy vehiclesNo Credit Local Action 6
Educate the public about the impacts of poor air quality on human health and the natural environment and the efforts they can take to reduce pollution and exposureNo Credit Local Action 7
Enforce anti-idling regulations or burning restrictions to prevent emission of excess pollution, particularly on Air Quality Action DaysNo Credit Local Action 8
Improve traffic signal timing or upgrade intersections to relieve congestionNo Credit Local Action 9
Increase the mileage of sidewalks and dedicated bicycle infrastructure that connect people with destinationsNo Credit Local Action 10
Create or enhance programs aimed at increasing tree canopy through active planting or direct tree protectionsFull Credit Local Action 11
Implement targeted programs to encourage residents to transition to cleaner productsFull Credit
- NS-5: Water in the Environment
-
- Outcomes
-
Hydrological Integrity
Demonstrate that the amount of water withdrawn from the system for human uses does not exceed the amount of freshwater entering the system through precipitation, river flow, and other sources
No Credit Biological Integrity
Achieve a biological integrity rating of ‘Very Good’ or ‘Good’ based on EPA’s 305(b) reporting requirements for all water bodies with appropriate designated uses
No Credit Chemical Integrity - Pollutants
Option A: Demonstrate pollutant loadings below Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) levels
OR
Option B: Demonstrate a steady decrease in pollutant levels towards a long-term goal of below TMDL levels
No Credit Chemical Integrity - Usability
Demonstrate that all non-industrial water bodies are swimmable and fishable during 90% of days in the past year
OR
Option B: Demonstrate a steady reduction in water closures of at least 2% annually towards achieving 90% of days being swimmable and fishable
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Adopt a watershed management plan that integrates natural water bodies with human water use and addresses inputs and outputs of the water systemsNo Credit Local Action 2
Adopt community regulations that protect water quality OR participate in a regional pollutant trading program that reduces watershed pollution levelsNo Credit Local Action 3
Create partnerships to address sources of non-point source water pollution not directly covered by local authority or controlNo Credit Local Action 4
Create an education campaign about ambient water quality, pollution prevention, mitigation, and restoration techniquesNo Credit Local Action 5
Provide incentives to residents and developers to protect and restore critical watershed protection areasNo Credit Local Action 6
Engage in restoration projects for critical water bodies and buffer zones that protect those water bodiesNo Credit Local Action 7
Develop and provide water conservation programs to residents, businesses and agricultural water users in order to help ensure that the community is not depleting its water supplyFull Credit Local Action 8
Establish or partner with a group that routinely inventories and monitors natural water bodies for biological, chemical, and hydrological integrityFull Credit
- NS-6: Working Lands
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- Outcomes
-
Land Management
Option A: Use best management practices (BMPs) on 100% of working lands in the jurisdiction
OR
Option B: Demonstrate at least a 2% annual average increase in working lands utilizing BMPs over at least 3 data points
No Credit Certified Sustainable Harvests
Increase the number of certified sustainable harvesters for a locally-selected industry over time
No Credit - Actions
-
Local Action 1
Include considerations for protecting working lands and identifying areas where critical BMPs are necessary in the community's land conservation or natural resource planNo Credit Local Action 2
Convene owners and operators of working lands to promote sustainable harvesting practicesNo Credit Local Action 3
Educate owners and operators of working lands about current best management practicesNo Credit Local Action 4
Promote the value of locally produced, certified sustainable harvests and products to the publicNo Credit Local Action 5
Work with youth groups and community organizations to implement BMPs on local working landsNo Credit Local Action 6
Provide conservation programs and services tailored to the needs of the working lands communityNo Credit Local Action 7
Encourage owners of working lands to conserve their properties in perpetuityNo Credit Local Action 8
Implement financing strategies to conserve working lands and support ongoing restoration effortsNo Credit
- Innovation & Process Credits
-
- IP-1: Best Practices & Processes
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Comprehensive Planning No Credit Public Engagement No Credit Codes and Ordinances No Credit - IP-2: Exemplary Performance
-
IP-2: Exemplary Performance Full Credit - IP-3: Local Innovation
-
New Action in Built Environment Full Credit - IP-4: Regional Priorities
-
IP-4: Regional Priorities No Credit