2023.09.26 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

September 12, 2023 Page 3 of 5 • Develop campaign details and designed, co-branded, community materials for campaign promotions. • Facilitate Xcel Energy data requests to measure campaign impacts as needed outside of normal data reporting. • Create printed and digital media for promoting programs, incentives and resources. • Develop case studies to support campaign outreach. • Create designed packets of materials as stated in the strategies. • Support the development of a benchmarking program through sharing best practice resources and connections to peer communities. • Provide up to $1,450 for reimbursed expenses related to printing and distribution of co- branded marketing materials, venue fees, food, and other related needs associated with outreach and education. Dierdre Coleman, Center for Energy and Environment, discussed how she has been working with the City on the Energy Action Plan (EAP). She noted the team members that assisted with the plan. She commented further on the planning process that was followed for the CAP and EAP. She reviewed the building and energy reduction goals that had been set by the CAP team, along with the goals for increasing energy savings. It was noted the vision states New Brighton is a community that leads by example, promoting clean energy through education and action. By prioritizing energy efficiency, equity and renewable resources, we are creatin a sustainable and resilient city that serves as a model for others. Together we can build a healthier, more prosperous future for all. The strategies to reach the City’s goals were seen as being across the community, meaning the City, its partners, civic leaders and volunteers were all part of the work. A detailed overview was provided for the actionable strategies and strategy implementation timeline. Implementation support and resources were discussed. She commented further on how the plan would be implemented and requested questions or comments from the Council. Councilmember Axberg indicated the financial cost for this plan was rather low. She questioned if there were any other costs or staff resources that were required for implementation. Parks and Recreation Director Fink reported the cost listed within the MOU was a contribution ($1,450) from Xcel Energy. She stated at this time, there was no cost for the City to participate in this program. Councilmember Axberg asked what the timeline was for the MOU. City Manager Massopust stated the MOU would run for 18 months and the City would have an opportunity to extend the MOU if the City was lacking in capacity. He commented on how it would take more staff time to implement the CAP than the EAP. Parks and Recreation Director Fink commented on how the EAP and CAP would be implemented separately. Councilmember Axberg inquired if the City or Xcel had 2022 data that could be included in the EAP. Ms. Coleman explained 2021 data was included because this was the data that was available when the EAP was started. She reported Xcel does have 2022 data available. Further discussion ensued the City’s franchise fees. Mayor Niedfeldt-Thomas stated she was very excited about the EAP and its implementation. She thanked staff and the partners at Xcel for all of their efforts. She commented on how some of the actions within the EAP that would require City funds noting she was nervous about how these would be funded. She questioned how the proposed rebates would be funded. Parks and Recreation Director Fink explained this was a plan but staff understood not all initiatives may be pursued. She discussed how the proposed programs would assist the City in pursuing federal dollars or grants. She commented on a how a federal grant and City rebate may assist residents with pursuing energy efficient products or solar panels. Staff explained the could color code items within the plan that would or may require City funding. Mayor Niedfeldt-Thomas indicated she was not a fan of putting things into a plan that the City did not intend to do. She stated if the City was not planning to offer rebates this should be removed from the plan. She requested further information on how the building code would be impacting the City’s goals. Ms. Coleman indicated she was not a building code expert, but she understood the State building code was still being worked on.