MB Magazine reports CITY TAKES THE ‘LEED’ ON GOING GREEN…
To implement green building practices, the City’s Green Committee is recommending requiring LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) silver certification for both new construction and major renovations of existing buildings larger than 10,000 square feet. The Committee is also recommending incentives for green building, including expedited plan review and inspections. According to the US Green Building Council, LEED initiatives have now been adopted in 90 cities, 20 towns, 12 federal agencies, 15 public school jurisdictions and 37 institutions of higher education across the US.
LEED is a rating system that promotes the design and construction of green buildings. A green building uses less energy, less water and fewer natural resources; creates less waste; and is healthier and more comfortable for the occupants. Benefits of a LEED building include lower energy and water bills; reduced greenhouse gas emissions; and less exposure to mold, mildew and other indoor toxins. The net cost of owning a LEED building is comparable to that of owning a conventional building after factoring in savings on energy costs over a period of time (US Green Building Council).
The Green Committee has met with architects, LEED certified professionals, developers, engineers and consultants to make sure that its recommendation is both practical and will positively affect our environment. The Commission is expected to consider the recommendation in the fall.
Green Committee meetings are held on the last Tuesday of the month at 5:00 p.m. in the Mayor’s Conference Room and are open to the public. For further information, call Wanda Ortiz at 305.673.7104
