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Missoula Adopts Energy Efficiency & Greenhouse Gas Reduction Policy

WHEREAS, energy efficient building techniques can pay for themselves and will save taxpayer money over time; and


WHEREAS, fossil fuels are finite, pollute the air we breathe and contribute to climate change when burned; and


WHEREAS, on June 17th 1996 the City of Missoula passed resolution number 5890 expressing support and agreement in joining the international Cities Climate Protection Campaign resolving to take a leadership role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and to develop a local action plan to increase energy

efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions throughout the community; and


WHEREAS, on May 3rd 2007 the Mayor of the City of Missoula signed a resolution of support for the US Conference of Mayors Climate Protection Agreement; and


WHEREAS, on May 10th 2004 the City of Missoula adopted a Greenhouse Gas- Energy Efficiency plan that called for the formation of a Greenhouse Gas Energy Conservation Team; and


WHEREAS, the Missoula Greenhouse Gas Energy Conservation Team has been charged to advise the Missoula City Council on ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and constructing efficient buildings with reduced fossil fuel use is one way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions; and


WHEREAS, the best time to incorporate features that reduce fossil fuel use and promote energy efficiency in buildings is at the planning and design stages.


NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Missoula adopts an Energy Efficiency and Greenhouse Gas Reduction Policy for new municipal construction and major remodels of municipal buildings. The term major remodels is meant to encompass projects that meet one or more of the following criteria:


1) projects affecting over 2,500 square feet of a buildings floor plan with a reasonable potential for energy efficiency upgrades,


2) replacing 75% or more of building heating system,


3) replacing 75% or more of building cooling system,


4) replacing over 50% of the building lighting,


5) involving removal of over 50% of a buildings roof, or


6) involving work on over 50% of a buildings exterior walls.

The term major remodels is not meant to cover cosmetic remodels, emergency repairs or regular maintenance. The Energy Efficiency and Greenhouse Gas Reduction Policy for city initiated projects requires:


1.) Project Invitation for Bids or Requests For Proposals for new municipal buildings and major remodels will state the high priority of energy efficiency and greenhouse gas reduction for the initial 20 year operation of the building project. The request for proposal shall specify the energy rates to be used in the energy

cost estimates required in item 2.) below.


2.) Licensed professionals providing services for a project will be required to include an energy analysis that:


a. estimates the energy consumption and long-term operating costs of the building if built to minimum code requirements.


b. proposes energy efficiency measures based on current technology and site location.


c. estimates the energy consumption and long-term operating costs from the scenarios proposed in 2.) b. above.


d. provides an economic analysis of the costs and benefits of proposed measures based on the initial 20 year period.


3.) Licensed professionals providing services for a project will be required to demonstrate capability and experience with energy analysis, or hire consultants with the necessary expertise.


4.) For the purpose of educating the public on the benefits of energy efficiency and greenhouse gas reduction:


a. results of the energy analysis shall be documented and available via the city website.


b. the energy efficiency and greenhouse gas reduction features incorporated into the project shall be publicized through educational displays during construction and in the completed building.


c. after the building contract is awarded, a press release may be issued that summarizes the energy analysis and energy features chosen for the project.