HomeMy WebLinkAboutDiscussion on the Draft Community Climate Action Plan.pdf
Commission Memorandum
REPORT TO: Honorable Mayor and City Commission
FROM: Natalie Meyer, Climate Protection Coordinator
Anna Rosenberry, Finance Director
Chris Kukulski, City Manager
SUBJECT: Discussion on the Draft Community Climate Action Plan
MEETING DATE: January 18, 2010
AGENDA ITEM TYPE: Work Session
BACKGROUND: The purpose of this meeting is to review and discuss the draft Community
Climate Action Plan recommendations developed by the Mayor’s Community Climate Task
Force. The goal of this meeting is to inform the Commission of the Task Force’s current work
and to solicit input from the Commission on the recommendations. The conversation will be led
by, Hattie Baker, Sustainable Planning Solutions, in an open format covering the
recommendations outlined in the attached Climate Action Plan. City staff and members of the
Mayor’s Community Climate Task Force will be present to participate in the discussion and
provide their input.
Suggestions provided during this Work Session will assist the Mayor’s Community Climate Task
Force as they finalize their recommendations. The Task Force anticipates releasing the final
Community Climate Action Plan by February 10, 2011 and will seek final adoption by the City
Commission on February 28, 2011.
Attachments: Draft Community Climate Action Plan
Letters of Support
Mayors’ Climate Protection Agreement
Report compiled on: January 7, 2011
14
Bozeman Community
Climate Action Plan
January 18, 2011
Photo Source MSU: Hyalite Reservoir
15
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 2
Hattie Baker, climateprotection@bozeman.net
Principal contacts: Natalie Meyer, Climate Protection Coordinator, 406-582-2317,
nmeyer@bozeman.net
City of Bozeman
Mayors’ Climate Protection Agreement
121 North Rouse
Bozeman, MT 59715
www.bozeman.net
Executive Summary
16
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 3
The Mayor of Bozeman signed the Mayors Climate Protection Agreement (MCPA) in November 2006.
The purpose of this agreement is to engage US cities to decrease their output of gases known to cause
global warming. As of 2011, over 1,000 Mayors across the United States signed onto the MCPA thereby
committing their cities to attempt to meet measurable goals for greenhouse gas reductions. The Mayors
Climate Protection Agreement is at least in part tied to the federal government’s decision not to sign the
International Kyoto Protocol agreement. The Kyoto agreement commits nations to reduce their
greenhouse gas emissions seven percent below 1990 levels by 2012. As of the writing of the Bozeman
Community Climate Action Plan, the United States has still not ratified the Kyoto protocol agreement.
Scientific evidence clearly tells us that the Earth is warming, and that anthropogenic (man-made) causes
are influencing this trend. That was the conclusion of the second scientific assessment of the United
Nation Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in 1988 and reinforced by the third and
fourth scientific assessments by the IPCC submitted in 2001 and 2007. In 2007 the IPCC concluded, “The
balance of evidence suggests a discernible human influence on global climate.”
An emission Inventory was performed for the years 2000 and 2008. The inventory examined electricity
and natural usage in the residential and commercial building sectors, gasoline and diesel usage through
vehicle miles traveled in the transportation sector, and landfill operations in the waste sector. Total
emissions for 2000 was 365,843 metric tons of CO2e; 36 percent of total emissions came from the
Residential Sector with 133,100 mt of CO2e; 41 percent from the Commercial Sector with 148,010 mt of
CO2e; 19 percent from the Transportation Sector with 70,965 mt of CO2e, and 4 percent from the Waste
Sector with 13,769 mt of CO2e. Total emissions for 2008 was 524,062 metric tons of CO2e; 34 percent of
emissions came from the Residential Sector with 179,908 mt of CO2e; 38 percent from the Commercial
Sector with 197,822 mt of CO2e; 26 percent from the Transportation Sector with 137,372 mt of CO2e;
and 2 percent from the Waste Sector with 8,961 mt of CO2e
The Mayors Community Climate Task Force (MCCTF), a 15 member stakeholder group, was appointed in
October 2009 to develop recommendations for the Community Climate Action Plan (CCAP). The CCAP
17
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 4
provides recommendations on how to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Bozeman. GHG reductions
policies are far reaching and affect all sectors of society; for this reason, a holistic approach to GHG
mitigation management must be used to effectively address climate change reduction strategies. The
MCCTF recognizes that there is no silver bullet in reducing emissions. After careful consideration and
thoughtful planning, the MCCTF proposes a two part approach to reduction.
1) Reduce emissions to 10MT per capita by 2020 with aggressive conservation measures
2) Reduce emissions to 10 percent below 2008 levels by 2025 by developing alternative energy
capacity
The recommendations in the Community CAP are divided into five sections: (1) Residential &
Commercial Building, (2) Transportation; (3) Waste Water & Recycling, (4) Energy Production, and (5)
Community Engagement & Implementation. Realistic and achievable goals along with innovative and
progressive ideas were balanced to provide policies from which city officials can make effective
decisions. Carbon reduction policies and fiscal responsibility are not mutually exclusive; for this reason
the task force believes these recommendations can help preserve a healthier community, create
“green” jobs, and save taxpayer dollars.
18
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 5
Acknowledgments
This report is the culmination of a yearlong effort, the result of which would not have been possible
without the assistance of many people.
Task Force Members
Mary Cloud Ammons, Chair Inter-Neighborhood Council
Kevin Barre, Assistant Facilities Director Bozeman Public Schools
Scott Bischke, Citizen-at-large
Jeff Butler, Director of Facilities Operation and Maintenance, Montana State University
Lee Hazelbaker, Director HRDC/Streamline/Galavan Transportation
Mel Kotur, Community Relations Manager Northwestern Energy
Anders Lewendal, President, Southwest Montana Building Industry Association
Bill Murdock, Gallatin County Commissioner
Chris Naumann, Executive Director Downtown Business Partnership
Daryl Nourse, Chamber of Commerce
Otto Pohl, Citizen-at-large
Dawn Smith, U.S. Green Building Council
Dan Stevenson, Assistan Facilities Director, Montana State University
John Vincent, Montana Public Service Commissioner
Leroy Wilson, Director Facility Services, Bozeman Deaconess Hospital
Residential Working Group Members
Susan Bilo, Citizen
Casey Dudley, LEED Consultant
Gary Gannon, TruVue Solution
Heather Higinbotham, Yellowstone Business Partnership
Adrien Tanguay, Carbon Neutral Builders
Jon Shafer, Powerhouse
Commercial Working Group Members
Joshua Bowden, Gradient Systems
Bill Stoddart, D.A. Davidson
Gary Gannon, TruVue Solution
Pete Strom, Powerhouse
Transportation Working Group Members
David Boggeman, Retired MSU Chemist
Lisa Ballard-Current Transportation Solutions
Ron Gomperts- EcoAuto
Ted Lange- Gallatin Valley Land Trust
Waste Water & Recycling Working Group Members
Jonas Grenz, Gradient Systems
Heather Higinbotham, Yellowstone Business Partnership
19
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 6
Dennis Steinhauer, Powerhouse
Wendy Weaver, Green Stone Consulting
Beth Schneider, Triple R Recycling
City Staff & Interns
Natalie Meyer, Climate Protection Coordinator
Rebecca Piersol, Sustainability Intern
Chris Saunders, Assistant Planning Director
Paulae Frojae, Building Inspector
Brian Krueger, Planner
Rob Green, Sanitation
Steve White, Sanitation Superintendant
Jon Henderson, Geographical Information Systems
Mike Haddock, IT
Marina Kro, IT
Gabriele Dennehy, IT
Karen Semaru, City Manager’s Office
We would also like to thank the restaurants who sponsored the monthly meetings by providing locally
produced and sustainable foods.
MacKenzie River Pizza
Nova Café
Sola Café
John Bozeman Bistro
Bozeman Co-Op
Finally, thank you to the New Priorities Foundation for providing the Grant to fund this project.
20
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 7
List of Abbreviations
AERO
BLM
CACP
CAPPA
CAP
CCAP
CO2
CO2e
COC
CFL
DBA
DEQ
DSM
EPA
FDA
GHG
HVAC
ICLEI
IPCC
kW
LED
LEED
MCAP
MCCTF
MDT
MSU
NCC
NWE
PSC
SWMBIA
YBP
USGBC
USDA
21
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 8
Contents
Executive Summary .................................................................................................................... 2
Acknowledgments ...................................................................................................................... 5
Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 10
CLIMATE CHANGE AND BOZEMAN .................................................................................................... 14
What is Bozeman Doing About Climate Change? ..................................................................... 14
BOZEMAN EMISSIONS INVENTORY ................................................................................................... 21
Residential: Electricity and Natural Gas ................................................................................ 27
Commercial: Electricity and Natural Gas ................................................................................ 27
Transportation ...................................................................................................................... 30
Waste .................................................................................................................................... 31
MUNICIPAL CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ................................................................................................. 33
RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS ...................................................................................... 35
Residential and Commercial Building Sector Recommendations ........................................... 35
Strategies .............................................................................................................................. 35
Existing Measures.................................................................................................................. 35
Community Spotlight ................................................................................................................ 48
Bozeman Deaconess Hospital ............................................................................................ 48
TRANSPORTATION .................................................................................................................... 49
Transportation Sector Recommendations ............................................................................... 49
Strategies .............................................................................................................................. 49
Existing Measures.................................................................................................................. 49
Community Spotlight ................................................................................................................ 62
Bozeman Public Schools Safe Routes to School Program ....................................................... 62
WASTE, WATER, & RECYCLING ............................................................................................... 63
Waste, Water & Recycling Sector Recommendations ............................................................ 63
Strategies .............................................................................................................................. 63
Existing Measures.................................................................................................................. 63
Community Spotlight ................................................................................................................ 73
Bozeman Toilet Rebate Program ........................................................................................ 73
ENERGY PRODUCTION .............................................................................................................. 74
Energy Production Recommendations ................................................................................... 74
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION ................................................................ 84
22
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 9
Community Engagement and Implementation Recommendations .......................................... 84
Community Spotlight ................................................................................................................ 91
Neighborhood Conservation Clubs ..................................................................................... 91
Appendix A ............................................................................................................................... 92
Raw Data ............................................................................................................................... 92
Appendix B................................................................................................................................ 93
Mayors Climate Protection Agreement.................................................................................. 93
23
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 10
CHAPTER 1
Introduction
Climate Change is an issue which has the potential to have devastating effects on the Bozeman
community if immediate and aggressive policies are not taken to begin mitigating for anthropogenic
(man-made) greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations which are a major cause of global warming. Urged by
the efforts of the Citizens Concerned for Climate Change, the Bozeman City Commission signed onto the
Mayor’s Climate Protection Agreement (MCPA) in November 2006 (Appendix B). The MCPA, initiated in
2005 by Seattle’s Mayor Nickel’s, is a commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 12 percent
below 1990 levels by 2012.
The City of Bozeman hired a Sustainability Planning Solutions through a grant by the New Priorities
Foundation in February 2009 to complete the Bozeman Climate Action Plan (CAP) (as described later,
this was split into two efforts, the Municipal CAP, and a Community CAP) . The CAP identifies ways in
which the community can begin addressing Climate Change. Facilitated by the efforts of the
Sustainability Consultant, The Mayor’s Community Climate Task Force (MCCTF) was appointed in
October 2009 and given one year to complete the Community CAP (CCAP).
The MCCTF met once a month to review, discuss, and understand the scope of the CAP. In addition,
technical working group members representing industry experts from each sector were appointed and
met from February 2010 -May 2010. The City of Bozeman has been leading by example with the
adoption and implementation of the Municipal CAP. This document represents the Community Climate
Action Plan. It is important to stress that this plan is the second part to a two-part plan which fulfills
the requirements of the Mayors Climate Protection Agreement.
This report outlines the description and benefits for each recommendation, the carbon reduction
potential of that recommendation, savings and costs estimates, comprehensive support for each
recommendation already identified in current City plans, a timeline for implementation, existing actions
similar to this recommendation, and potential partnerships to assist in implementation.
The recommendations provided in this Community CAP are divided into five sections: (1) Residential &
Commercial Building, (2) Transportation; (3) Waste Water & Recycling, (4) Energy Production, and (5)
Community Engagement & Implementation. Realistic and achievable goals along with innovative and
progressive ideas were balanced to provide policies from which city officials can make effective
decisions. Carbon reduction policies and fiscal responsibility are not mutually exclusive; for this reason
the task force believes these recommendations will create a healthy community, create “green” jobs,
and save taxpayer dollars.
Global Warming: A Brief Summary
Scientific evidence clearly tells us that the Earth is warming, and that anthropogenic (man-made) causes
are influencing this trend. That was the conclusion of the second scientific assessment of the United
Nation Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in 1988 and reinforced by the third and
fourth scientific assessments by the IPCC submitted in 2001 and 2007. In 2007 the IPCC concluded, “The
balance of evidence suggests a discernible human influence on global climate.”
24
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 11
Figure 1. Graphical representation of the greenhouse effect
(www.epa.gov/climatechange/kids/greenhouse.html)
The greenhouse effect (Figure 1) is the process whereby short wavelength energy from the sun hits the
Earth and is re-radiated back toward space as long wavelength infra-red heat energy. Some of this heat
energy passes into space, but some is absorbed by the atmosphere, resulting in the retention of heat
around the Earth. The natural greenhouse effect helps keep the Earth’s average temperature at around
59 degrees Fahrenheit (F). Without the natural greenhouse effect, the Earth’s average temperature
would be around 0°F, and the planet would be largely uninhabitable.
Since industrialization humankind has markedly increased the concentration of molecules in the
atmosphere that absorb heat energy (known as “greenhouse gases”). These measurable concentration
increases, along with upward trends in temperatures and rapid climate change around the globe, are
the underlying basis for the current concerns of global warming.
A greenhouse gas is any gas in the atmosphere that adsorbs infra-red radiation and thereby contributes
to the greenhouse effect. There are numerous greenhouse gases, but the three of major concern to
normal citizens are carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide:
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emissions result from the burning of fossil fuels (e.g., oil, coal, or natural gas) most
often for transportation, industrial operations, or the heating of buildings.
Methane (CH4) emissions result from the anaerobic decay of organic materials in landfills and water
treatment plants, as well as from fuel production, livestock production, and farming.
Nitrous Oxide (N2O) emissions result from agricultural and industrial activities, as well as during
combustion of solid waste and fossil fuels.
25
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 12
These gases are also naturally occurring (e.g., plants “breathe” out carbon dioxide, and methane is a
natural byproduct of decomposition). However, human activities such as those mentioned above have
increased the concentration of these greenhouse gases in the atmosphere far beyond natural levels.
That is why man-made GHG are the primary focus of efforts to reduce the impact that humans are
having on the climate system.
For the first time, the IPCC is providing best estimates for the warming projected to result from
particular increases in greenhouse gases that could occur after the 21st century along with uncertainty
ranges based on more comprehensive modeling. If atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases
double compared to pre-industrial levels, this would “likely” cause an average warming of around 3°C
(5.4°F), with a range of 2 - 4.5°C (3.6 - 8.1°F). A GHG level of 650 ppm (parts per million)would “likely”
warm the global climate by around 3.6°C(6.5°F), while 750 ppm would lead to a 4.3°C(7.7°F) warming,
1,000 ppm to 5.5°C(9.9°F) and 1,200 ppm to 6.3°C(11.3°F).
Future GHG concentrations are difficult to predict and will depend on economic growth, new
technologies, government policies and actions to stem GHG growth, and other factors. By signing on to
the Mayors’ Climate Protection Agreement, the City of Bozeman has declared its intention to take action
to minimize its output of global warming gases.
Global Warming Potential and CO2e
Each greenhouse gas differs in its ability to absorb heat in the atmosphere. The difference in absorption
ability results from the different chemical bond characteristics for each molecule as well as their
expected lifetime in the atmosphere.
Scientists use the term “global warming potential” (or GWP) to describe how much a given mass of
greenhouse gas will contribute to global warming. GWP is a relative scale that compares the gas in
question to the same amount of CO2 (i.e., C02 has a GWP of 1.0). CO2 was chosen as the reference
because it is the most prevalent of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. As shown in Table 1, methane
traps 21 times more heat per molecule than carbon dioxide and thus has a GWP of 21. Nitrous oxide
absorbs 310 times more heat per molecule than carbon dioxide and thus has a GWP of 310.
Table 1: Relative global warming potential of the most common greenhouse gases
Greenhouse gas Chemical
Symbol
Global warming
potential
Expected lifetime (years)
in the atmosphere
Carbon Dioxide CO2 1 50-150
Methane CH4 21 10.5
Nitrous Oxide N20 310 132
(Source EPA http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/emissions/downloads/ghg_gwp.pdf. Accessed 5/9/08)
26
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 13
Global Warming Potential Units of Measure
When actual emissions are being discussed, global warming potentials allow policy makers to use one
unit of measurement for comparing the various greenhouse gasses. That unit of measure is the known
as “CO2 equivalents” (or “CO2e”). For instance, 1 ton of carbon dioxide emissions would equal 1 ton of
CO2e; 1 ton of methane would equally 21 tons of CO2e. The entirety of the Community Emissions
Inventory will be in terms of CO2e.
27
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 14
CHAPTER 2
CLIMATE CHANGE AND BOZEMAN
Climate Change Impacts to our Bozeman Community
While the global climate system is large, complex, and dynamic, evidence strongly suggests that human-
caused emissions of greenhouse gases are directly tied to recent warming of the globe. Scientists are
increasingly confident that the impacts of global warming over the next 50 to 100 years promise to be
substantial. Anticipated climate-related challenges include rising sea levels, disrupted water resources,
lessened food security, threats to human health, and disruptions to natural ecosystems. The frequency
and severity of extreme weather events is also expected to increase.
Picture 1. Bozeman and the Gallatin Valley as seen from the Bridger Crest.
Anticipating the impacts of climate change for a local area, such as Bozeman, is more difficult than
predicting average change across the globe. However, for the Bozeman area, climate change may lead
to such tangible, life-impacting alterations as increased catastrophic forest fires, shortened ski seasons,
hotter summers, lower summer river flows, and drought.
Decreased tourism may result from shortened ski and fishing seasons, with a resulting decrease in
business income and related tax income. Increased drought can have severe impacts on agri-business,
as well as lead to increased property loss due to forest fires. Importantly, these impacts will stress
municipal services such as fire prevention and clean and abundant water supply.
In addition to human-related concerns in the Bozeman area, local ecological diversity and our natural
resources are likely to suffer a broad range of negative impacts and losses due to global warming. These
changes are intrinsically important, as well as with respect to their impact on tourism and other
industries. Such changes might include disruption of native fisheries (e.g., west slope cutthroat trout
populations), increased plant disease (e.g., blister rust), increased plant pathogens (e.g., bark beetles),
and negative impacts on high elevation species (e.g., white bark pine).
What is Bozeman Doing About Climate Change?
Mayors Climate Protection Agreement
The Mayor of Bozeman signed on to the Mayors Climate Protection Agreement (MCPA) in November
2006. The purpose of this agreement is to engage US cities to decrease their output of gases known to
28
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 15
cause global warming. As of 2011, over 1,000 Mayors across the United States signed onto the MCPA
thereby committing their cities to attempt to meet measurable goals for greenhouse gas reductions. The
Mayors Climate Protection Agreement is at least in part tied to the federal government’s decision not to
sign the International Kyoto Protocol agreement. The Kyoto agreement commits nations to reduce their
greenhouse gas emissions seven percent below 1990 levels by 2012. As of the writing of the Bozeman
Community CAP, the United States has still not ratified the Kyoto protocol agreement.
The City of Bozeman should be commended for its leadership and progressive approach towards
beginning to address climate change prior to this report. For instance, the City has the first silver rated
LEED (Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design) public building in the state of Montana with its
public library. City Hall has been renovated using LEED Existing Building designs. When possible, the City
uses bio-diesel in its vehicle fleet, and the City has converted most of its traffic signals from
incandescent light bulbs to Light Emitting Diodes (LED’s). LED’s are 80 percent more energy efficient
than incandescent bulbs. Most importantly, the City adopted its first Municipal Climate Action Plan in
2008. Lead by the Climate Protection Coordinator the City Sustainability Team has been working on
reducing emissions in Municipal operations.
Mayors’ Community Climate Task Force
The Bozeman City Commission appointed Mayors’ Community Climate Task Force in October 2009 to
create a Community Climate Action Plan (CCAP). Stakeholders included:
· City of Bozeman- Climate Protection Coordinator and Mayor
· Public Agencies- Montana State University, Bozeman Deaconess Hospital, Streamline
Transportation, Gallatin County
· Business- Chamber of Commerce, North Western Energy, Downtown Business Association,
Southwest Montana Building Industry Association, United States Green Building Council
· Residents- Inter-neighborhood Council, three citizens–at-large
Bozeman Global Warming Gas Reduction Goal
A community emissions inventory was performed for 2000 and the interim year 2008. The Task Force
identified a baseline year of 2000 to be consistent with the Municipal Climate Action Plan. The Task
Force began by asking the facilitator to do a review of other city plans and their level of success at
achieving the reduction goals of those plans. A website was created to keep the task force and
commissioners informed www.cacheo.com
To date most cities have not reached the final date set forth in their plans. Some evidence was found
that cities are struggling to meet strict goals that are based solely on a CO2e reduction goal relative to
some past date (for example, under the Kyoto Protocol whose signees pledged to reduce greenhouse
gases 7% below 1990 levels by 2012).
Bozeman’s own municipal plan, focused only on City operations, mandates a 15% reduction of
greenhouse gases below 2000 levels by 2020. Rather than adopt this goal, the Task Force was careful to
recognize that it is far easier to control tightly bound—by culture, budget, and so on—city operation
than a diverse city of private individuals, homes, businesses, churches, and so on.
Thus some Task Force members argued for a less aggressive greenhouse gas reduction goal.
Recognizing projections that show the possibility of Bozeman’s population roughly doubling by 2025,
much debate was held regarding setting a normalized (i.e., per person) reduction goal. This idea was
not unanimously agreed to by the Task Force. All, however, agreed that the idea provided the ability to
29
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 16
compare our city’s greenhouse gas production with that of different cities in the USA, and even different
countries around the world (Figure 2).
Figure2 Worldwide per capita emissions
In the end, the Task Force decided to use both normalized and absolute reduction goals to drive
Bozeman’s Climate Action Plan. Part of the reason for that decision was that the group realized it had
two main types of recommendations with two different timeframes for implementation (Table 2).
Table 2.—Planning and implementation timeframe comparison for Task Force recommendations.
Type
recommendations
Potential
greenhouse
gas reduction
Planning
phase
Expected Bozeman implementation phase
of Task Force recommendations
Conservation-
based
(shorter term)
Low to
medium
2011
to
2020
Easiest efforts beginning in 2011 with work ongoing as
projects are readied. We expect major efforts to be
completed by 2020 but strong likelihood of ongoing efforts
through 2025 and beyond
Production-based
(longer term) High
2011
to
2025
Planning for energy production will be substantial. Some
major efforts such as energy offset purchases may begin as
soon as possible, but major implementation efforts for these
recommendations more likely to occur from 2020 – 2025.
30
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 17
As the conservation-based recommendations are less likely to result in substantial reductions, the Task
Force believes it reasonable to allow actual emissions to grow during the period of 2011 (expected plan
adoption) until 2020 (Figure 3). However, the Task Force caps the allowed increase at a per capita usage
between now and 2020 to less than that of today (i.e., a cap of 10 MT CO2e / person / year vs. today’s
level of 13 MT CO2eq / person / year). It is important to note that Figure 3 is based on population
growth as stated in the Bozeman Community Plan (adopted in 2009). That plan projects a population of
88,700 for Bozeman in 2025.
From 2020 forward we expect that Bozeman will have initiated its own energy production capabilities,
as outlined in the remainder of this chapter. Given that change, and the far larger reductions expected
once alternative sources of energy are tapped to supply the city, the Task Force recommends an
absolute goal of returning to 10 percent below 2008 levels of greenhouse gas emissions by 2025 or the
numeric equivalent of 472,000MT of CO2e. The scenario described is reflected in Figure 3, both for
absolute CO2e output (upper graph) and per person output (lower graph).
We believe that our final 2025 goal is obtainable without threat to the quality of life for the people of
Bozeman. Assuming that Bozeman’s population does grow to 88,700 by 2025, we would be using 5.4
MT CO2e /person/ year, identical to Sweden’s use in 2007. If Bozeman does not grow that rapidly, our
allowable use to meet the Task Force’s goal will be greater than 5.4 MT CO2e / person / year.
31
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 18
Figure 3.—Task Force recommendations for reduction of Bozeman global warming gas emissions (i.e., CO2eq). Top graph
shows actual emissions based on population growth projections from the Bozeman Community Plan. Bottom graph shows
per person carbon emissions under Task Force recommendations which emphasize implementing conservation goals until
2020, then implementing City-controlled alternative energy production from 2020-2025.
Projections
32
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 19
Scope of this Community Climate Action Plan (CCAP)
This Community CAP serves as a guideline and tool for the community to decrease its greenhouse gas
emissions. All the recommendations in the Community Climate Action Plan were achieved by unanimous
consent of the MCCTF.
This Community CAP should be used as a living document to be reviewed, monitored, and adjusted as
necessary. It is important to note that further analysis of proposed changes might be required before
action is taken. While the Task Force believes that all recommendations are warranted ecologically, in
most cases a rigorous analysis of cost (or benefit) per unit of CO2 reduced was beyond the Task Force’s
scope and/or knowledge and/or time availability. Thus we cannot present these recommendations as
an ordered list of preferred actions (i.e., beginning with the most cost beneficial changes and running to
most expensive changes per unit of CO2 reduction).
Community CAP Process and Summary of Recommendations
The task force divided into 4 sub-committees: (1) Residential Building and Energy, (2) Commercial
Building and Energy; (3) Transportation; and (4) Waste, Water, & Recycling. The groups were tasked
with identifying greenhouse gas reduction opportunities within their sectors.
In the chapters that follow, we provide recommendations from each of the subcommittees. Table 3
provides a summary of those recommendations for easy reference.
The CCAP Reduction Target Goal
1) Reduce emissions to 10 metric
tons per capita or 695,000 metric
tons by 2020
2) Reduce emissions to 10 percent
below 2008 levels by 2025 or
472,000 metric tons
33
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 20
Mayors Community Climate Task Force Recommendations Carbon Reduction
Metric Tons CO2e
Residential and Commercial Building
RCB1 Require benchmarking at point of sale for all commercial buildings N/A
RCB2 Require commissioning and adherence to 2009 International Energy Conservation Codes (IECC)
for all new construction
4,000
RCB3 Launch a 10 percent energy reduction challenge for residential and commercial buildings 3,800
RCB4 Restrict high polluting fuel sources in all buildings N/A
RCB5 Adopt a Residential and Commercial Energy Conservation Ordinance (RECO& CECO) 3,500
RCB6 Provide incentives for the capture of solar energy on commercial buildings 1,200
RCB7 Require building energy performance as part of City’s revolving loan fund for economic
development
130
RCB8 Encourage passive solar design at the planning stage 2,500
RCB9 Support Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) bond legislation 800
RCB10 Support Architecture 14X stimulus legislation 800
RCB11 Support net-metering legislation 180
Transportation
TSP1 Complete the identified routes in the transportation plan 700
TSP2 Adopt a 1mill levy for Streamline directly 175
TSP3 Install electric charging station 225
TSP4 Adopt an anti idling ordinance 1100
TSP5 Bike and Showers in lieu of parking spaces 7
TSP6 Interconnect and Enhance Sidewalk Network 150
TSP7 Support a local option gas tax to fund public transportation at the County level 1100
TSP8 Examine emissions from Gallatin Field Airport N/A
TSP9 Reform taxi permitting process N/A
Waste, Water, & Recycling
WWR1 Support a full waste characterization study N/A
WWR2 Expand/require current composting program 35
WWR3 Provide recycling in public spaces N/A
WWR4 Adopt a 5 cent fee on paper and plastic bags N/A
WWR5 Support an increase in tipping fees to encourage waste reduction 240
WWR6 Support an opt-out policy for the delivery of phone books N/A
WWR7 Hydro-generation capability must be included in the consideration of a new dam N/A
WWR8 Develop wind or solar on site potential at City facilities 2,100
WWR9 Examine potential of methane capture from Logan landfill N/A
Energy Production
EP1 Develop Alternative Energy resources on city owned property N/A
EP2 Develop solar hot water program 400
EP3 Create solar Photo Voltaic lease program N/A
EP4 Purchase Green Energy 14,000
EP5 Create Bozeman Energy Team N/A
Community Engagement and Implementation
CEI1 Appoint a permanent Sustainability Advisory Board N/A
CEI2 Create a sustainability coordinator position N/A
CEI3 Perform an emissions inventory every 3 years N/A
CEI4 Create a community website for existing programs N/A
CEI5 Develop an educational campaign 400
CEI6 Support the Yellowstone Business Partnership N/A
CEI7Participate in the Southwest Montana Building Industry annual home show N/A
CEI8 Promote NorthWestern Energy rebates 4,200
CEI9 Promote the Neighborhood Conservation Clubs N/A
TOTAL REDUCTION POTENTIAL 27,342
34
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 21
CHAPTER 3
BOZEMAN EMISSIONS INVENTORY
Community Emissions Inventory
An emissions inventory was presented to the Bozeman City Commission in August 2009. Since that time,
new information on transportation vehicle data, which was unavailable at the time of the report, has
been received; thus significantly changing 2008 emissions for the transportation sector and increasing
total emissions from the previous inventory by nearly 47,000 metric tons. The Community CAP reflects
those changes
The City of Bozeman joined ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability in June of 2007. ICLEI is an
international association of local governments as well as a national, regional, and local government
organization that has made a commitment to sustainable development. Through its membership, ICLEI
provides the City of Bozeman access and support to its Clean Air Climate Protection (CACP) software.
The CACP 2009 version 2.1, June 2009 software was used for this emissions inventory. CACP was
originally developed for ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability by Torrie-Smith associates. ICLEI
collaborated with the National Association of Clean Air Agencies to create the software. All of the data
and information is saved to the city-owned software and is available for future emission inventories. All
data tables, assumptions, and calculations are included in Appendix A.
The emissions coefficients and methodology employed by the software are consistent with national and
international inventory standards established by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (1996
Revised IPCC Guidelines for the Preparation of National GHG Emissions Inventories), the U.S. Voluntary
Greenhouse Gas Reporting Guidelines (EIA form1605), and, for emissions generated from solid waste,
the U.S. EPA’s Waste Reduction Model (WARM).
Carbon reduction potential figures were derived using ICLEI’s Climate and Air Pollution Planning
Assistant (CAPPA) as an estimate. CAPPA is not to be used in lieu of a detailed engineering analysis.
Total emissions for 2000 was 365,843 metric tons of CO2e; 36 percent of total emissions came from the
Residential Sector with 133,100 mt of CO2e; 41 percent from the Commercial Sector with 148,010 mt of
CO2e; 19 percent from the Transportation Sector with 70,965 mt of CO2e, and 4 percent from the Waste
Sector with 13,769 mt of CO2e.
Total emissions for 2008 was 524,062 metric tons of CO2e; 34 percent of emissions came from the
Residential Sector with 179,908 mt of CO2e; 38 percent from the Commercial Sector with 197,822 mt of
CO2e; 26 percent from the Transportation Sector with 137,372 mt of CO2e; and 2 percent from the
Waste Sector with 8,961 mt of CO2e
A previous inventory for City operations for calendar year 2000 resulted in a net carbon output of 6,083
short tons of CO2e or 5,518 mt of CO2e in 2000. This represents only 2 percent of the community’s total
carbon footprint. While it is important that Municipal operations take steps to reduce its emissions,
community emissions represent a much larger carbon footprint.
Bozeman has a unique opportunity to successfully reduce its emissions. A majority of emissions are from
energy and natural gas usage in the residential and commercial sector. Policy initiatives may want to
focus on energy conservation and reduction strategies. Potential benefits can be gained through
measures such as energy efficiency retrofits, insulation, and lighting, which typically have a good rate of
return on investment.
35
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 22
Figure 4: 2000 GHG Sector Emissions
Figure 5: 2008 GHG Sector Emissions
According to the US Census Bureau and the Bozeman Community Plan, the population in 2000 was
27,509 and was estimated to be approximately 38,000 in 2008. The population increased by 38 percent
while emissions increased by 43 percent. Bozeman experienced almost a two-fold increase in total
vehicle miles traveled during this period.
Total Emissions in MTCO2e: 365,483; Residential 133,100; Commercial 148,010,
Transportation 70,965, Waste 13,769
Total Emissions in MTCO2e: 524,062; Residential 179,908; Commercial 197,822;
Transportation 137,372; Waste 8,961
36
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 23
Table 4: Community Emissions Totals
Sector 2000 mt of CO2e 2008 mt of CO2e Increase
Residential 133,100 179,908 35%
Commercial 148,010 197,822 34%
Transportation 70,965 137,372 95%
Waste 13,769 8,961 -35%
Total 365,843 524,062 43%
Boundary Definition
NorthWestern Energy is the largest utility provider in Montana with 392,600 customers. NWE service
territories cover 73 percent of Montana’s land area (www.northwesternenergy.com.)
Figure 5: NorthWestern Energy Service Area
Source: NorthWestern Energy
Creating a greenhouse gas emissions inventory is an overwhelming challenge for many communities.
Consistent data management is one obstacle to accurate reporting. Because the information needed for
a ghg inventory in Bozeman has not been previously measured, an initial inventory can help lay the
foundation for improved data collection mechanisms in the future. The electrical and natural gas usage
information in this inventory was largely provided by NorthWestern Energy’s sales data for Bozeman.
The jurisdiction of the CCAP is defined by the boundaries set forth in the Community Plan for the City of
Bozeman and represented by the blue line in Figure 6. Any real sustainable solution for this area,
however, should include goals and participation for the entire Valley and the Big Sky community which is
directly tied to materials and resources from the Bozeman/Belgrade area.
37
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 24
The energy usage boundary in this inventory is limited to the data available by NWE which exceeds the
boundaries set forth in the CCAP. Through the City of Bozeman’s Geographical Information Systems
(GIS) department, a boundary map was created to illustrate the coverage area accounted for in this
inventory (red line Figure 6). The emissions boundary provided by NorthWestern Energy’s Bozeman
town code runs from Bear Canyon in the East to Black Bull in the west; Springhill in the North and
Hyalite in the south. Future collaboration with NorthWestern Energy must create opportunities for
monitoring and reporting energy usage within the City limits more accurately. Utilizing the City’s GIS
program and NWE’s customer billing information, a more accurate emissions inventory within the
jurisdiction of Bozeman could be extracted.
This plan strongly recommends that the City of Bozeman and NorthWestern Energy work together to
streamline energy usage data for future inventories. This inventory is intended to be a snapshot of
emissions produced in 2000 with an interim inventory for 2008. Included in the inventory is energy
usage for electricity and natural gas from the residential and commercial sector, transportation fuel
usage determined by vehicle miles traveled provided by the Montana Department of Transportation,
and waste from both the Story Mill (Bozeman) and Logan (Gallatin County) Landfills. The City of
Bozeman closed down its landfill operations in June of 2007. Community wide waste is being sent to the
County landfill in Logan.
38
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 25
Figure 6 NWE Bozeman Town Code Map
39
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 26
Per Capita Emissions
Per capita emissions in Bozeman for 2000 and 2008 were 13mt CO2e. Per capita emissions remain lower
than the US national average of 23mt CO2e per capita; however, it is the total amount emitted into the
atmosphere that should remain the focus. Per capita emissions were derived using population estimates
for the City of Bozeman. Because the emissions coverage area represents a much larger area than the
City’s jurisdiction, a future inventory may find that per capita emissions are lower still.
(http://www.eia.doe.gov/iea/carbon.html).
Carbon Footprint
The amount of vegetation needed to use the CO2 emitted is one way to put a community’s carbon
footprint into context. The US EPA provides specific estimates of storage or sequestration for different
plant types, including a value for Douglas fir, a tree in abundance in Montana, of .3 tons/acre/year for
reforestation. (http://www.epa.gov/sequestration/rates.html)
This allows us to convert known emissions totals for our community into land area. In this case, it is land
area that would have to be reforested with Douglas Fir and preserved as forest. 1,905 square miles of
land would need to be reforested and preserved to offset CO2 emissions at 2000 levels and 2,406 square
miles at 2008 levels.
Figure7: Bozeman's Carbon Footprint
Source
The main source of emissions calculated in this inventory were electricity and natural gas usage, diesel
and gasoline consumption based on EPA national standards derived from vehicle miles traveled and
40
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 27
paper products. Paper products were obtained from the Montana solid waste distribution averages
(Appendix A).
Figure 8: Emissions Source
Nearly all of the emissions sources are fossil fuel based carbon dioxide with a small portion derived from
the decomposition of organic matter from waste in the landfills. The two highest sources of emissions
for both inventory years were electricity and natural gas.
Recommendations focused on reducing emissions will want to tackle the highest sources of emissions
most aggressively. Sources included in the other category are plant debris, wood or textiles, and food
waste.
Residential: Electricity and Natural Gas
Energy usage in the Residential and Commercial sector was determined by total consumption numbers
provided by NorthWestern Energy; the major utility provider in Bozeman. Energy
for electricity and natural gas usage is measured in kilowatt hours (kWh) and
therms, respectively; however, for the purpose of the inventory all metrics for
energy consumption have been converted to kWh. A count of individual
services/meters, rather than billing accounts was used to determine the number
of utility customers. The Residential Sector includes 18,048 customers and is
represented in the Bozeman area town code map previously mentioned.
Residential sector energy usage for 2000 was 547 million kWh. Emissions were
133,100 mt of CO2e or the equivalent of consuming over 15 million gallons of
gasoline. In 2008, the Residential Sector used 712 million kWh of electricity.
Emissions were 179,900 mt of CO2e or the equivalent of consuming over 20
million gallons of gasoline. (http://www.epa.gov/RDEE/energy-
resources/calculator.html)
Commercial: Electricity and Natural Gas
Commercial sector usage is made up of five categories: General Service- 1,
General Service-2, Gas Transportation, Interdepartmental, and Irrigation.
General Service encompasses four Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
A kilowatt hour
(kWh) is 1000
watts of energy
usage burning for
one hour. Ten 100
watt light bulbs
burning for 1 hour
is a kilowatt hour.
41
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 28
reporting classes: Commercial, Industrial, Public Authority and Interdepartmental. There are no Public
Authority customers in Bozeman. Industrial and Interdepartmental customers have been classified as
Commercial in this inventory.
· General Service-1 (GS-1) includes non-demand and demand metered commercial
customers taking service at secondary and primary voltage levels. This class is made up
primarily of Main Street-type businesses. As a point of reference, Bozeman City Hall has
GS-1 demand metered service.
· General Service-2 (GS-2) is for customers with larger capacity requirements that dictate
they take their service at substation or transmission level voltages. Montana State
University is the only GS-2 customer in Bozeman.
· Gas Transportation is available to customers with meters capable of delivering 5,000
cubic feet per hour or more. Transportation customers purchase supply on their own
and pay NWE to transport their gas commodity over NWE's transmission and
distribution lines on either a firm or interruptible basis. This includes a number of school
district buildings, MSU, some large retailers and several industrial customers.
· Interdepartmental is NWE's own buildings and facilities.
· Irrigation is primarily related to agriculture (irrigation ditches, center pivots, hand lines,
wheel lines) and can include golf courses if they have their own pump.
The Commercial Sector accounted for 41 percent of total emissions in 2000, the largest portion of
emissions, with 549 million kWh of energy usage and 148,010 mt of CO2e emitted or the equivalent of
consuming 344 thousand barrels of oil. Commercial Sector usage remained at 41 percent of total usage
in 2008 with 689 million kWh of energy used and 197,822 mt of CO2e or the equivalent of consuming
460 thousand barrels of oil ( http://www.epa.gov/RDEE/energy-resources/calculator.html).
GS-1 and GS-2
Bozeman has a vibrant and diverse commercial sector, all of whom contribute to the community’s
carbon footprint. Montana State University and Bozeman Deaconess Health Center are the largest
employers in the City. Historic downtown Bozeman serves as the city commercial center with banking,
professional, and hospitality services. Working together to find ways to aggressively reduce emissions
will be essential to the success of the Community Climate Action Plan. Several communities have
initiated voluntary programs to encourage public and private institutions to reduce their carbon
footprint. In Burlington VT, the Ten Percent Challenge has been a success with 93 businesses and 1200
residencies participating in the program. The program fosters recognition of individual actions, while
motivating and tackling the larger community’s progress towards its climate protection goals.
42
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 29
Source: Bozeman Economic Development Plan 2008
As a signatory to the American College & University Presidents Climate Commitment (ACUPCC), MSU is
leading the way to reduce emissions in the community. The ACUPCC is a commitment to eliminate
global warming emissions and integrate sustainability into the curriculum. MSU has appointed a Campus
Sustainability Advisory Council which meets once a month to discuss sustainability projects on campus.
MSU is in the process of developing its Climate Action Plan which is expected to be completed in the
spring of 2011.
The majority of commercial emissions are a
result of electricity and natural gas usage in
the GS-1 sector with 97,226mt of CO2e
emitted in 2000 and 176,769mt of CO2e
emitted in 2008. MSU is the only GS-2
consumer with 16,740mt of CO2e emitted in
2000 and 19,594mt of CO2e emitted in 2008.
Emissions only represent energy usage
provided by NorthWestern Energy. A more
comprehensive inventory by MSU will likely
reveal other sources of emissions.
Irrigation
Irrigation covers agricultural land and golf courses within NWE’s Bozeman Town Code coverage. There
are three golf courses located within this area: Valley View, Bridger Creek, and Riverside Country Club.
Valley View is the only golf course located within the City limits.
Table 5: Largest Public and Private Employers in Bozeman
Company /Entity
Number of Employees
Montana State University 2,679
Bozeman Deaconess Hospital 1,238
Bozeman Public School District 587
Gallatin County Government 460
Right Now Technologies* 400
Wal-Mart Stores 370
City of Bozeman 351
Kenyon Noble Lumber Company 236
Williams Plumbing and Heating 200
Zoot Enterprises* 177
Costco Wholesale 176
Bozeman Community Food Co-Op 170
Simkins Hallin Lumber Company 169
Murdoch’s Ranch and Home Supply 160
Martel Construction 150
Gibson Guitar- Montana Division 140
Billion Auto Group 135
Bozeman Daily Chronicle 128
Rosauer’s Supermarket 123
Best Western Gran Tree Inn 115
Target Stores 110
*Zoot Enterprises and Right Now Technologies are located
outside Bozeman City limits
Photo Source: MSU
43
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 30
The Gallatin Valley has the highest prevalence of irrigation in the state. The US Department of
Agriculture (USDA) performs an agricultural census every five years. According to the 2002 Census,
Gallatin County had 1,074 farms and 708,728 acres dedicated to farm land. According to the 2007
Census, Gallatin County had 1,071 farms and 776,868 acres of land dedicated to farm land. MSU has
three farms. BART (Bozeman Area Research and Teaching) Farm, located on 19th and Garfield, is within
the City limits, Fort Ellis Farm is within the Bozeman Town Code coverage area, and the Arthur Post
Farm in New Middle Creek is located outside the coverage area.
Transportation
Vehicle Miles Traveled
Bozeman is a regional service community. The traffic counts performed in 1998
for the 2001 Update of the Bozeman Community Plan documented 60,000
trips per day traveling into or out from Bozeman’s municipal boundaries.
Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) annually for 1998 was used as a proxy for 2000.
With the existing street network, 111,600,000 vehicle miles were calculated by
the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) as cars traveling in and out
of Bozeman. This is enough to circle the earth’s equator 4,485 times. Vehicle
miles traveled for 2008 increased more than 50 percent with total VMT at 233
million miles.
Streamline Bus System
Photo Source: Streamline
Public transportation can help reduce a community’s carbon footprint by reducing the number of
individual vehicle miles traveled. Bozeman’s public transportation is the Streamline bus system which
has been in service since 2006. The cost is free to the public thanks in large part to funding from the
Federal Transit Authority and local municipalities such as Bozeman and Belgrade.
In 2008, Streamline’s fixed route ridership increased dramatically averaging 792 rides per day in January
and February, with a record high of 922 rides on February 3, 2008. Streamline estimates 195 tons of CO2
reductions per year.
Miles of Streets
2000- 136
2007- 206
2009- 242
Source: City of
Bozeman Engineering
Division
44
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 31
Waste
Story Mill and Logan Landfill
Story Mill Landfill was Bozeman’s main landfill site in 2000. The site was closed down on July 1, 2007 and
a solid waste district was created. Bozeman now hauls its waste to Gallatin County’s Logan Landfill.
Emissions figures for 2008 reflect this change. Story Mill collected 55,941 tons of waste in 2000 and
emitted 13,769 mt of CO2e. Story Mill collected 13,996 tons of waste in 2008 and emitted 3,445 mt of
CO2e. Logan collected 22,411 tons of waste in 2008 and emitted 5,516 mt of CO2e. Total emissions for
2008 were 8,961 mt of CO2e.
There are a number of reasons for the decrease in emissions in the Waste sector. The Bozeman Landfill
closed down in July of 2007. The only waste allowed into the Story Mill Landfill from January 1, 2008 –
June 30, 2008 was from the Bozeman Solid Waste trucks. Waste previously brought to the Story Mill
landfill is now being sent to the Gallatin County landfill site in Logan. Second, the recent downturn in the
economy, largely in the construction sector, has had a ripple effect in the amount of waste being
collected. Because the county does not track all waste coming in from Bozeman, the waste share usage
was determined by calculating the total waste at Logan from July 1 –December 31, 2008 by the
percentage of county population living in Bozeman. According to the latest Bozeman Community Plan,
Bozeman represents 43.4 percent of the population in Gallatin County.
Waste to Energy
Story Mill landfill explored preliminary feasibility studies with the EPA for the Landfill Methane Outreach
Program; however, results concluded that Story Mill landfill would not generate enough methane to use
for heat at this time. The County may consider exploring methane recovery programs with the increased
waste being diverted to Logan landfill. Grant funding may be available through the EPA’s Landfill
Methane Outreach Program (LMOP).
Recycling
In 2007, the City avoided nearly 7,000 metric tons of
CO2e from being emitted into the atmosphere
through its recycling programs. Diverting waste
through recycling has a positive effect on reducing
emissions. Several organizations provide recycling
services in the community. Triple R Recycling and Full
Circle recycling are private companies which provide
recycling in and out of the City limits. Headwaters
Recycling was contracted by the City of Bozeman to
collect recycling through various drop off sites in
town. The program began in 1998, and the City
ended its contract with Headwaters in April of 2008
to begin a City curbside recycling program in December of 2008. The Solid Waste District continues to
operate convenience sites in Bozeman. Recycling figures for 2000 were not available; however,
Headwater was able to provide recycling figures for 2007. At the time of this inventory, Bozeman
curbside recycling was only 6 months into its program and did not have sufficient data to include into
the report. The City of Bozeman has been actively monitoring its municipal recycling operations since
the adoption of the Municipal CAP.
45
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 32
Table 6: 2007 Headwaters Recycling Bozeman
Tons Recycled MT CO2e Reductions
Paper 1500 2869
Aluminum 128 2061
Glass 1230 360
Plastic 114 225
Cardboard 675 1482
Total Reductions 6970
46
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 33
CHAPTER 4
MUNICIPAL CLIMATE ACTION PLAN
Municipal Climate Action Plan
The City of Bozeman adopted the first Municipal Climate Action Plan (MCAP) in August 2008. A part-
time Climate Protection Coordinator has been hired to implement the recommendations in the MCAP.
A number of recommendations are worth noting in the CCAP given the strong impact they could have on
the community as a whole. The MCC Task Force believes the following recommendations should be
given high priority when considering future projects for implementation.
MCAP- WWR-4. Install a turbine for electrical generation at the City’s Lyman Water Treatment Plant
Description. Following the installation and beginning operation of the Hyalite/Sourdough turbine,
budget funds for the study of a similar turbine to be placed into operation at the Lyman plant.
Successful carbon footprint reduction may additionally be available at the City’s smaller Lyman plant.
The Task Force recommends basing the decision for installation of a turbine at the Lyman Plant on the
successful operation of the Hyalite/Sourdough turbine.
Carbon Footprint Reduction. In 2006, Lyman Creek reservoir used 84,817 kWh and emitted 46 tons of
CO2e. A carbon footprint reduction could again be possible based on capturing energy from the head of
water available leading to the Lyman plant.
Financial Consideration. The Lyman Creek Plan paid $8,100 in utility costs. Project financial viability will
be driven by the same metrics listed under WWR-1. The break-even point should be readily calculated
based on performance (energy production performance, low maintenance and down time) of the
Hyalite/Sourdough turbine.
Updates.
MCAP- WWR-11. Capture and Use Methane Gas Coming Off the Story Mill Landfill Site
Description. The soon-to-be-closed Story Mill landfill site generates considerable methane (CH4) from
rotting organic material. This methane production will continue, even after landfill closure. The Task
Force recommends that the City capture this gas and use it for heating or electrical generation.
Carbon footprint reduction. Methane has a global warming potential 21 times as great as CO2. By
capturing the methane the City will eliminate a potent global warming gas that is currently being vented
directly to the atmosphere. By using the methane a heat source or for electrical generation in micro-
turbines, the City will additionally eliminate the need to buy methane (i.e. natural gas) for these
operations, or similarly electricity generated by coal-fired power plants.
Financial considerations. Several financial studies have been undertaken by the U.S. EPA’s Landfill
Methane Outreach Program. These options, including capture of the methane for resale, for heating or
powering the new landfill administrative building should be strongly reviewed for payback viability. If
viability is not proven, the Task Force recommends that the City review methane capture once yearly as
increasing energy prices are likely to make the program financially viable in the near future.
Updates.
47
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 34
MCAP-WWR-12. Install a Micro-turbine Power Generation System for Methane Capture and Use
Description. A micro-turbine system would allow the WRF to turn biogas waste from the anaerobic
digesters (75 percent of which would otherwise be flared) into power that can be used by the WRF to
heat, cool, and light its buildings. At this time, there is insufficient biogas production to operate the
smallest available micro-turbine (approximately 230 kW). Therefore, the micro-turbine operation would
need to be augmented by natural gas until approximately 2020. To reduce the need for supplemental
natural gas and maximize the utility of the micro-turbines, the anaerobic digesters could be turned into
“cash cows” by accepting high strength waste directly into the digesters. The higher levels of biogas
produced from this high strength waste would off-set the need for added natural gas, and increase the
cost effectiveness of the micro-turbines. High strength waste streams in Bozeman that could be directly
fed into the digesters include waste from the Darigold Milk Plant, and the grease traps at Montana State
University’s cafeteria and other food facilities. A receiving facility would need to be built to
accommodate the extra inputs, adding to the cost of this option, but the potential for power generation
would be significant. Also, with high strength waste being directly input into digesters, the efficiency of
the current system that treats all influent prior to the digesters would be increased (using less energy in
the absence of the high strength waste). Additional analyses would need to be done to determine how
much of the WRF’s power needs could be met by directly feeding the anaerobic digesters with high
strength waste.
Carbon footprint. Installing a micro-turbine would have a significant impact on reducing the Municipal
carbon footprint by turning waste into energy. According to HDR/Morrison Mairle Engineering, we can
reasonably estimate that the micro-turbine would lead to a reduction of 225 -250 kW of electrical load
at the WRF. A more accurate estimate of the carbon footprint reduction for the micro-turbine will only
be possible once they know the efficiency of the micro-turbine machine they would like to install
(research into which machine will be best is still on-going). It will also depend on whether the Darigold
Milk Plant will be included in the high strength waste collection program. Given the fact that increasing
demand on the WRF due to a growing population in Bozeman will result in an absolute increase in CO2eq
emissions from the WRF, a micro-turbine linked to a digester that accepts high strength waste is the
only way to reduce the absolute amount of emissions produced by operations at the WRF. Although
there is a high cost to installing a micro-turbine (see below), the Task Force recommends that the City
seek funding to support the installment of such a micro-turbine as a means of significantly reducing the
Municipal carbon footprint.
Financial Considerations. A ~230kW micro-turbine would cost approximately $1.8 million, so the Task
Force recommends that the City seek financial assistance from the electrical utility (NorthWestern
Energy) to balance out the costs of purchasing and operating a micro-turbine.
Updates.
48
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 35
CHAPTER 5
RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS
Residential and Commercial Building Sector Recommendations
The residential and commercial working group members met in February and March of 2010. Members
included builders, architects, city building inspectors and planners, and citizens at large. The group
identified four strategies to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the building sector. A number of
recommendations are beyond the scope of the City’s jurisdiction; as such, these recommendations are
intended to be part of an inter-governmental commission designed to
promote and further the objectives of the CCAP.
Strategies
1. Inventory energy usage of new and existing commercial buildings
2. Increase energy efficiency in existing building stock
3. Promote the development of renewable energy and conservation
programs
4. Promote strong state and federal climate change policies
Existing Measures
Rather than reinventing the wheel, several organizations in Bozeman are consistent with the efforts
promoted in this report. The Sustainability Advisory Board should look to these organizations when
implementing the recommendations in this sector.
· Neighborhood Conservation Clubs
· Yellowstone Business Partnership
· US Green Building Council
· National Association of Builders Green Building Program
Reducing energy consumption in existing homes and developing a
systematic and consistent database of information for commercial
buildings was identified as a first priority. Promoting voluntary
benchmarking tools would help businesses more clearly identify the impacts of energy usage and how to
reduce both its bottom line and carbon footprint. Partnering with NorthWestern energy to help
promote the rebates available to the community is a low-cost, effective way to promote existing
resources. The recently adopted 2009 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) was identified as
being 15-30 percent more efficient than current standards for new construction. Applied to new
construction, this will help minimize the impacts of growth on emissions. Reducing demand on fossil
fuels through intensive conservation measures coupled with renewable energy applications where
appropriate was identified as yielding the most optimal results of carbon neutrality in the long-term.
49
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 36
RCB 1- REQUIRE BENCHMARKING AT POINT OF SALE FOR COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS
Description
Energy benchmarking for commercial, institutional, and governmental buildings
(herein referred to as commercial buildings) is an initiating step toward energy
efficiency improvements. This recommendation would require benchmarking at the
point of sale for commercial buildings and would encourage voluntary benchmarking
for the entire commercial building stock. Benchmarking would include building size,
function, energy indexes for electric, gas, and total energy on a btu per square foot
per year basis.
Benchmarking enables people to compare the general energy performance of a
building against similar buildings in the region. ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager is
one example to provide a uniform method of benchmarking as well as comparison of
individual buildings to similar buildings. The process yields a 1-100 score that is
generally a function of how the building operates and what energy efficiency
features are present. The score makes energy consumption information easy to
grasp for building owners, operators, and tenants.
A 2005 California Energy Commission endorsed benchmarking “as a means to
motivate decision makers, usually building owners, to implement measures that will
improve the energy efficiency of a building….Benchmarking is an initial step in a
comprehensive efficiency program.” It is also referred to as an “entry point for other
strategies,” such as retro-commissioning and energy auditing.
Summary of Benefits
· Provides a quantified measure of building performance.
· Enables the consideration of energy efficiency strategies through informing
owners and decision makers.
Similar Actions in Other Cities
· California AB 1103 Requires Energy Benchmarking Data Released During
Sales http://www.facilitiesnet.com/energyefficiency/article/California-AB-
1103-Requires-Energy-Benchmarking-Data-Released-During-Sales--11020
· State and Local Governments Leveraging Energy Star
http://www.energystar.gov/ia/business/government/State_Local_Govts_Lev
eraging_ES.pdf
References and Other Resources
· Energy Star Portfolio Manager
http://www.energystar.gov/ia/business/government/State_Local_Govts_Lever
aging_ES.pdf
· Energy Stars Portfolio Manager – How it’s Used for Benchmarking
http://www.facilitiesnet.com/energyefficiency/article/Energy-Star-Portfolio-
Manager-How-It-is-Used-for-Benchmarking--11022
Carbon Reduction
Potential
N/A
Department
Building/Planning
Savings/Cost
Negligible
Timeline
Pilot program in 2012.
Comprehensive Support
for Action
Existing Actions
The City of Bozeman is currently
benchmarking all of their
buildings according to their
space type using Gradient
Systems’ Automated
Benchmarking System (ABS)
with ENERGY STAR.
MSU Energy Strategic Planning
Partnerships
MSU/ENERGY STAR/Gradient
Systems
50
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 37
RCB 2- - REQUIRE COMMISSIONING AND ADHERENCE TO CURRENT INTERNATIONAL ENERGY
CONSERVATION CODES (IECC) FOR ALL NEW CONSTRUCTION
Description
ASHRAE Guideline 0, The Commissioning Process, defines commissioning as "a
quality-oriented process for achieving, verifying, and documenting that the
performance of facilities, systems, and assemblies meets defined objectives
and criteria".
Building Commissioning accomplishes higher energy efficiency,
environmental health, and occupant safety and improves indoor air quality by
making sure the building components are working as designed and with the
greatest efficiency. Commissioning also can restore existing buildings to high
productivity through renovation, upgrade and tune-up of existing systems.
While the practice of building commissioning process is still fairly new in the
construction industry, it has quickly become common practice as savvy
building owners have seen substantial returns on their investment by way of
utility savings.
Summary of Benefits
Commissioning benefits owners' through improved energy efficiency and
improved workplace performance due to higher quality environments.
Benefits include:
· Precise tune-up of HVAC systems and controls
· Lower energy and maintenance costs
· Improved indoor air quality and a comfortable building environment.
Similar Actions in Other Cities
12/2009, New York City Council signed into law (file # Int 0967-2009) to
require energy audits and retro-commissioning of base building systems of
certain buildings and retro-fitting of certain city-owned buildings.
The City of Houston adopted a new Commercial Energy Conservation Code
that provides minimum requirements for the energy-efficient design of all
buildings except low-rise residential buildings. This new code took effect
August 1, 2008 and includes several new energy conserving provisions,
including a requirement for Commissioning.
References and Other Resources
http://www.wbdg.org/project/buildingcomm.php
http://www.oregon.gov/ENERGY/CONS/BUS/comm/commsave.shtml
http://legistar.council.nyc.gov/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=452543&GUID=AF748A00-
A263-4200-A91E-316346690D2A
http://www.houstoncommissioning.com/code.htm
http://www1.eere.energy.gov/femp/pdfs/ccg01_covers.pdf
Carbon Reduction
Potential
1,800 MTCO2e
(Based on 2,000,000
square feet of facilities)
Department
Building
Savings
$390,000/year
Timeline
Begin 2013
Comprehensive
Support for Acton
Existing Actions
Partnerships
51
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 38
RCB 3- LAUNCH A 10 PERCENT ENERGY REDUCTION CHALLENGE FOR RESIDENTIAL AND
COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS.
Description
An energy efficiency challenge is an effective way to motivate people
to save energy. A challenge keeps track of personal energy reductions
and awards a prize to the highest-saving individual.
Partnering with the Neighborhood Conservation Clubs and the
Chamber of Commerce the City can leverage existing resources for
marketing and promotional campaigns. Events such as “Bozeman
Green Drinks” and the NCC Club speaker series can be used to
disseminate information and sign-up participants. An effective
campaign will require the city to monitor all participants’ energy usage
from initiation to completion of program.
Summary of Benefits
· Reduction in energy usage will create less demand for fossil
fuel production
· Energy challenge can be utilized as an effective education and
awareness campaign
· Low-cost, voluntary approach
Similar Actions in Other Cities
· Gallatin County realized a 20% reduction in energy
consumption and $2,200 in energy savings over a five month
period by simply asking employees to change their behaviors.
· Burlington, VT http://www.10percentchallenge.org/
· Putney, VT
http://pec.putney.net/files/docs/10percentchallenge.pdf
· Montana 20 by 10 initiative
http://governor.mt.gov/20x10/default.asp
References and Other Resources
· www.MontanaHomeEnergy.com
· http://www.10percentchallenge.org/
Carbon Reduction Potential
3,800 MTCO2e
(based on 500 households and
350 businesses)
Department
Economic Development,
Finance & Neighborhood
Coordinator
Savings/Cost
$85,000/year in savings for
households
$458,000/year in savings for
businesses
$1,000 investment per
household & business
Timeline
Yearly challenge starting 2012
Existing Actions
Neighborhood Conservation
Clubs
Partnerships
NWE/Chamber of Commerce/
Neighborhood
Associations/Downtown
Business Partnership/Green
Drinks Bozeman
52
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 39
RCB 4- RESTRICT HIGH POLLUTING FUEL SOURCES IN ALL RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL
BUILDINGS.
Description
Dirtier fuel sources like: Fuel Oil, Wood and Coal emitted about
1.38% to 1.94% more carbon dioxide than Natural Gas. Removal of
these fuel sources and replacing them with Natural Gas, Liquefied
Petroleum Gas, or Propane will have a positive effect on reducing
the City of Bozeman’s carbon footprint. According to the DOE 7
percent of homes use fuel oil.
Summary of Benefits
Burning trash in a wood burning furnace produces unpredictable
results and should not be allowed. The mixture of chemicals and
material burned all at the same time react differently when burned
together. The most burnable items like paper and newspaper
release the emitted pollutants of the ink, dyes, and bleaches into
the environment.
Similar Actions in Other Cities
Boulder Colorado and Westminster Colorado - Certain jurisdictions
throughout the Denver metro area have established legal
requirements to reduce wood smoke. For example, some
communities have restrictions on installing wood-burning
appliances in new construction. The most common and least
restrictive action is to limit use at those times when air quality is
threatened. The appropriate agency issues an alert, similar to the
widespread Ozone Action Day alerts.
This same practice is in place for several other states like, Arizona,
California, and Oregon. Most of these states have a ban on
burning solid fuels (“solid fuel” is a substance which is neither
liquid nor gas) on high pollution days.
Kalispell, MT has limits on what can be burned and in fact does not
allow the burning of any manmade materials at any time.
No information found in regards to restricting fuel oil burning.
References and Other Resources
http://www.woodheat.org/environment/garbage.htm
http://flathead.mt.gov/environmentalhealth/burning.php
Carbon Reduction Potential
N/A
Department
Code Enforcement
Savings/Cost
Timeline
2 year deadline for all users to
convert to a heating system that
burns a cleaner fuel. ( Natural
Gas, Liquefied Petroleum Gas, or
Propane)
Comprehensive Support for
Acton
Existing Actions
Bozeman City has a plan in place
that requires a burning permit for
yard and tree debris.
Partnerships
Northwestern Energy
53
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 40
RCB 5- ADOPT A RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL ENERGY CONSERVATION ORDINANCE
(RECO & CECO)
Description
Buildings account for 40% of total energy use and about 35% of emissions in the
United States. Over the next few decades, most of this energy use will be used by
existing buildings. In Bozeman, over 3,500 single family homes were built before
1990 when less stringent energy codes were in place Many measures can be
applied to existing buildings to improve their efficiency, including using efficient
light bulbs and fixtures, replacing appliances with more efficient ones, increasing
insulation, replacing windows, and upgrading HVAC systems.
A Residential and Commercial Energy Conservation Ordinance (RECO/CECO)
applies to all homes, residential areas of mixed-use buildings, tenants-in-common,
condominiums, multi-family properties, live-work spaces and boarding houses,
and commercial property owners and must be complied with upon:
· the sale or transfer of property
· a combined value of $50,000 or more in renovations
A multi-tiered approach is suggested:
· Work with HRDC on RECO improvements for low-income housing.
· Develop a homeowner education strategy by partnering with MSU
Extension and Film on education materials.
· Homeowners must meet RECO requirements before they are eligible to
receive PACE financing or Northwestern Energy USB grant funding.
Summary of Benefits
· Save on utility bills, improve energy efficiency of existing buildings, &
reduce greenhouse gas emissions
Similar Actions in Other Cities
· Boulder, CO CAP assessment identified RECO’s and CECO’s as a successful
program.
References and Other Resources
http://www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/contentdisplay.aspx?id=20068
Carbon Reduction
Potential
3500MTCO2e
(2,000,000 sqft
retrofitted and 2000
homes over 10 years)
Department
Building, Finance
Savings/Cost
Timeline
Adopt 2011
Comprehensive
Support for Acton
Existing Actions
N/A
Partnerships
HRDC, MSU Extension
and Film, NWE USB
Grants
Jurisdiction
Municipal Ordinance
54
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 41
RCB6- PROVIDE INCENTIVES TO ENCOURAGE THE CAPTURE OF SOLAR ENERGY ON COMMERCIAL
BUILDINGS
Description
Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions will require a combination
of conservation and renewable energy applications. The capture of
solar power is the most effective renewable energy application for
urban areas; with commercial roof space providing opportunities
for large scale applications. Reducing permit fees for large
applications would help encourage such application.
Further analysis is required to determine the amount of roof space
available in the City.
Summary of Benefits
· Reduce demand on foreign oil
· Increased demand of PV applications
· Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
· Reduce utility bills
Similar Actions in Other Cities
The Google Campus in Mountain View, CA installed a 1.6MW
photovoltaic system which generates 2,611,719 kWh of output and
$393,000 in annual savings. CO2 emissions were reduced by 3.6
million pounds per year.
References and Other Resources
Carbon Reduction Potential
1,200 MT with 2 MW installed
Department
Building
Savings/Cost
Timeline
2011
Comprehensive Support for
Action
Growth Policy
Existing Actions
Arby’s Solar PV
Partnerships
NWE, State and Federal tax
incentives and grants
55
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 42
RCB7- REQUIRE BUILDING ENERGY PERFORMANCE AS PART OF CITY'S REVOLVING LOAN FUND FOR
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT.
Description
In keeping with the State of Montana's goals to maintain a clean
and healthful environment as well as the City's goal to reduce its
overall negative impact on the environment, each applicant for
revolving loan monies should include documentation on planned
water, energy use, and waste output as well as any possible
mitigations they may contemplate within the scope of the project.
Often, energy performance and corresponding metrics related to
the use of renewable resources is measured on a short-term basis.
To fully illustrate the long-term costs and benefits of using
renewable energy resources, each applicant should include a brief
comparison of the contemplated energy requirements relative to
the most appropriate renewable energy technology available for a
given project and/or situation. In requiring applicants to include as
part of the application process a side by side comparison of the
costs of traditional versus renewable technologies; the city will
have played a part in encouraging its applicants to become
conversant in available technologies while also
furthering its goal of reducing emissions
For all projects bonded with public monies, or where public
assistance is sought from the City of Bozeman or its related entities
(e.g. Tax Increment Financing Districts, etc), said projects will be
required to document projected energy and water usage and
waste stream data for the various intended purposes of the
building(s).
Summary of Benefits
This recommendation will help the City in its efforts to measure
the overall resource impacts of various facilities under it’s
jurisdiction and will further provide an opportunity for the City to
influence the ways in which its resources are managed
Similar Actions in Other Cities
References and Other Resources
Carbon Reduction Potential
130MTCO2e
(100,000 square feet new
construction and renovation with
15% increase in efficiency from
current codes)
Department
Finance & Economic Development
Savings/Cost
Timeline
On-going
Comprehensive Support for Acton
EDP
Existing Actions
Clean Energy Revolving Loan Fund
Partnerships
Financial Institutions, County,
State, Federal
Jurisdiction
56
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 43
RCB8- ENCOURAGE PASSIVE SOLAR DESIGN AT THE PLANNING STAGE
Description
The Passive Haus Institut and Passive House Institute U.S. have developed
research- and performance-based passive design building standards that achieve
an overall energy savings of 60-70% and space heating savings of 90 to 95%
compared to savings realized with current codes (including Bozeman’s current
IECC 2009 code).
Bozeman could encourage use of Passive House Institute Standards by providing
incentives to builders/developers and tax incentives to buyers. The Passive
House Institute provides training and certifies professionals that utilize a Passive
House Planning Package design/verification tool. Training classes could be
brought to Bozeman.
Passive solar design takes advantage of the sun’s path in the sky to provide
natural heat and cooling. An east/west-elongated building uses its south-facing
glazing (typically high-performance windows) to capture the winter sun’s rays
providing natural heat. Summer’s higher-angled sun is blocked to prevent heat
gain. Other elements: thermal mass (masonry walls, floors, etc.) and super
insulation. The Passive House concept builds upon these basics and is a
comprehensive, building-as-a-system approach that maximizes passive energy
gain and minimizes energy loss. This is accomplished with an airtight building, a
heat/energy recovery ventilation system, and elimination of thermal bridging.
Summary of Benefits
U.S. Energy Information Administration data shows that buildings emit the most
greenhouse gases and most of the energy used in both residential and
commercial buildings is for heating and cooling. Thus, buildings built to Passive
House design standards will have the greatest impact on reducing energy
use/greenhouse gas emissions. Plus, these buildings will be more comfortable,
durable, healthy, and owners will have greatly reduced utility bills. The money
not spent on utilities will likely be circulated into/boost Bozeman’s local
economy. And, these buildings are excellent candidates for smaller, more
affordable active renewable energy systems or becoming net zero energy
buildings.
Similar Actions in Other Cities
- Baltimore County High Performance Homes Bill, property tax incentives based
on energy performance including the Passive House Institute standard:
Bill 43-10 at
http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/countycouncil/legislation/10bills.html
-Vermont Energy Investment Corporation, Burlington, currently working on
performance-based incentives to include the Passive House standard:
www.veic.org
http://www.veic.org/Implementation_Services/Green_Building/GreenBuildingSe
rvices.aspx
Carbon Reduction
Potential
2,500MTCO2e
(based only on
heating+cooling load of 202
single-family homes at 2,400
sf
Department
Planning & Community
Development
Savings
$261,994/year
(202 households)
Timeline
Fall 2011
Comprehensive Support
for Acton
2020 Growth Policy
Partnerships
- SWMBIA, USGBC, Habitat
for Humanity
- MSU: Extension,
Engineering. & Architecture
Departments,
- NWE, Passive House
Institute U.S.
57
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 44
- Habitat for Humanity programs in Kentucky, Vermont, and Washington DC are
building to Passive House standards.
References and Other Resources
- Klingenberg, Katrin, and Mike Kernagis. “The Passive House: Strategies for Extreme
Efficiency.” Home Power Magazine, August/Sept. 2010: 70-75.
- Passive House Institute U.S. website: www.passivehouse.us
- U.S. Department of Energy, Building Energy Codes Program. Impacts of the
2009 IECC for Residential Buildings at State Level. Washington, DC, Sept. 2009.
58
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 45
RCB9- SUPPORT PROPERTY ASSESSED CLEAN ENERGY (PACE) BOND LEGISLATION
Description
PACE is a way to finance solar systems or energy efficient retrofits, where the
city offers a property owner a loan, and he/she pays it back through property tax
bills over 15 to 20 years.
The city partners with a company to administer the program or the city decides
to do it themselves. It’s usually funded with municipal bonds. The homeowner
gets a site evaluation for solar power or energy efficiency improvements with
any company they choose. Once a quote is given, the property owner applies
with the city program administrator. A small fee covers the cost of the municipal
solar financing program administration and discourages frivolous applications.
Once the improvements are approved by the city, the program administrator
pays the installer for the system that the homeowner purchased. The check is
forwarded directly to the installer. There is no upfront payment for the
homeowner, except possibly a deposit. The property owner pays it off on his or
her property tax bill over 20 years, at a competitive rate of interest. If the home
is ever sold, the improvement goes with it along with any tax liability.
Summary of Benefits
The program doesn’t require that the property owner supply any cash up front
or reduce equity of the home. This type of financing leaves the system or
improvement installation with the residence as well as the financial obligation. If
the property changes hands, so does the loan.
Similar Actions in Other Cities
The program was originally developed in Berkeley, California.
California passed AB811 to allow other cities to use the program.
Other Cities include:
· District of Columbia
· San Fransisco, CA
· Berkeley, CA
· Los Angeles, CA
· Boulder, CO
· Houston, TX
· Dallas, TX
References and Other Resources
www.pacefinancing.org
Carbon Reduction
Potential
800 MT
(2000 homes
retrofitted at 10%
energy savings)
Department
Finance & Economic
Development
Savings
$206,000/year
Cost
$5,000/household
Timeline
5 years for adoption.
10 years for results
Existing Actions
Tax Credits offered
through NorthWestern
Energy and the State
for green mechanical
systems
Partnerships
Gallatin County
59
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 46
RCB10- SUPPORT ARCHITECTURE 14X STIMULUS LEGISLATION
Description
This program would be for those homeowners that currently have loans at
least 2% higher than current market rates that would also like to pursue
energy efficiency investments in their property. The program would pay for
the refinancing of their current loan while also taking more money out of
their homes to pay for energy efficiency improvements.
An example would be if a homeowner had a current mortgage of $184,000
@ 6% interest their payments would be $1,103 per month. With the new
program, this homeowner could take out another $16,000 to do energy
efficiency benefits and end up with a $200,000 loan @ 4% interest where
their new payment would be $954 per month. That would be a savings of
$150 per month plus another $60 in energy savings. Giving the current
homeowner $210 per month more to either spend or save in the local
community.
Summary of Benefits
With every $1 spent by the government to refinance high interest loans, we
would generate $14 spent in the local economy to generate local jobs,
increase state and local tax revenue by $1 and federal tax revenue by $3.
The program basically pays for itself and will allow a huge investment by
homeowners who don’t have the upfront cash to complete these energy
efficiency projects.
Other benefits include greater comfort in the home, better air quality, and
lower carbon emissions.
Similar Actions in Other Cities
N/A
References and Other Resources
http://architecture2030.org/hot_topics/14x_stimulus
http://www.architecture2030.org/downloads/14x_stimulus.pdf
Carbon Reduction
Potential
800 MT
(2000 homes retrofitted
at 10% energy savings)
Department
Finance & Economic
Development
Savings/Cost
$210/Month for
Homeowners
No Cost to governments.
Timeline
5 yrs
Comprehensive
Support for Action
Architecture 2030 supports
this plan as a way to
generate jobs and energy
efficiency at the same
time.
Existing Actions
State of Montana provides
a similar program to
provide low cost loans for
renewable energy systems
with energy efficiency
measures also included in
their proposal.
Partnerships
State of Montana, NWE,
Financial Institutions,
SWMBIA
60
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 47
RCB11- SUPPORT LEGISLATION TO PROVIDE FINANCIAL INCENTIVES FOR THE USE OF RENEWABLE
ENERGY APPLICATIONS TO CURRENT NET-METERING CUSTOMERS
Description
You can meet some or all of your home energy needs by installing a renewable
electric generation project at your home or business. You can further reduce
your own energy costs and add energy to the utility’s energy system through
net metering. Bozeman has installed an estimated 330 kWs of photo voltaic
systems in 108 separate homes and businesses reducing emissions by 8,800MT
over 30 years.
Many renewable energy projects include net metering applications on
NorthWestern Energy’s distribution system. Net metering is a special
installation that allows any surplus energy generated by your system to go
back on the utility grid and gives you a “credit” for the electricity put back on
the system at retail rates. The system, however, does not pay you for any
surplus energy you may have generated. Adjusting the current rate structure,
to reward customers who consistently produce over and above the electricity
consumed, would add a direct financial incentive to increase renewable energy
generation in this sector.
Refunds must be consistent with current market rates rather than “avoided
costs” to create a direct financial incentive for increased participation. The City
should work with the intergovernmental body to help further this imitative at
the state legislature.
Summary of Benefits
· Increased capacity of residential and commercial solar photo voltaic
applications
· Create increased demand in market place to help lower coast of PV
applications
Similar Actions in Other Cities
References and Other Resources
http://www.dsireusa.org/summarytables/rrpre.cfm
Carbon Reduction
Potential
180 MT (yearly
reductions for 300
kW’s)
Department
Climate Protection
Savings/Cost
$9,000- cost per kW of
PV installed
$43,000 yearly utility
savings
Timeline
2011 legislative
session
Comprehensive
Support for Acton
Existing Actions
NWE Renewable
Energy Grants, State
and Federal Tax
incentives
Partnerships
Independent Power
Systems
Jurisdiction
FERC, State Legislature
61
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 48
Community Spotlight
Bozeman Deaconess Hospital
62
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 49
CHAPTER 6
TRANSPORTATION
Transportation Sector Recommendations
The transportation working group met four times over the month of April. Members included the City
planning, engineering, and streets department, electric car industry representatives, the Gallatin Valley
Land Trust, Stramline tranasportation, transportation
consultants, and citizens at large. The group identified
three strategies to help reduce emissions in the
transportaiton sector.
Strategies
1. Support policies for long-term integrated
multi-modal transportation and land use
planning for a 20-30 year horizon.
2. Develop infrastructure for electric vehicle
friendly community and provide incentives for
the production, sale and use of clean fuels.
3. Reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and fuel emissions by promoting a pedestrian and bike
friendly community.
Existing Measures
Several organizations in Bozeman are already implementing ghg reduction measures. The Sustainability
Advisory Board should look to these programs when implementing the measures in this section.
· Bozeman Public Schools No-idling Policy
· Safe Routed to School Program
· City of Bozeman Bike Share Program
Figure 1: Photo Courtesy of SPS
63
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 50
TSP1 EXPAND AND IMPROVE MULTI-MODAL INFRASTRUCTURE AND IMPLEMENT POLICIES
RECOMMENDED IN THE TRANSPORTATION, PROST & GROWTH PLANS
Description
The CAP supports recommendations included in the Bozeman Community Plan,
Bozeman Area Transportation Plan (2007), and the Parks Recreation Open
Space and Trails Plan that call for a development pattern that encourages and
enables the use of diverse modes of transportation through design that is
neighborhood-based, higher density, mixed use and pedestrian friendly.
Specifically, the CAP supports incorporating an interconnected network of trails,
bike lanes, safe street crossings, transit infrastructure and a grid street system
as part of all new development and street construction. Construction of specific
infrastructure improvements cited in these plans should be pursued proactively
whenever possible. The CAP recommends hiring new a multi-modal coordinator
staff position to act as a liaison between city departments, developers and the
public to ensure that opportunities are not missed and that construction of
these facilities is well planned and coordinated.
Summary of Benefits
By themselves and especially in combination, implementing these
recommendations will both reduce the number and shorten the length of
vehicle trips. Subsequent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions would be
considerable.
Fully integrating facilities for safe and convenient walking, biking and transit into
our community’s infrastructure will result in immediate benefits as well as a
long term cultural shift toward less dependence on personal vehicles. It will
also provide significant community benefits by improving public health and
overall livability and quality of life.
Similar Actions in Other Cities
Most of Montana’s other larger communities – especially Missoula, Great Falls
and Billings – are actively pursuing similar policies and infrastructure
improvements and have designated bicycle-pedestrian coordinators and other
staff positions to facilitate these efforts.
References and Other Resources
Missoula bicycle-pedestrian program:
http://www.ci.missoula.mt.us/index.aspx?nid=404
Missoula planning for parks, open space, trails and transportation:
http://www.ci.missoula.mt.us/index.aspx?NID=174
Billings Trails & Bike System:
http://www.prpl.info/parks/trails.html
Great Falls Transportation planning & Rivers Edge Trail:
http://www.greatfallsmt.net/people_offices/plancomdev/planning/transportation.php
http://thetrail.org/
Carbon Reduction
Potential
700MT(based on reducing
VMT to ½ of 1 percent)
Department
Planning and Community
Development
Savings/Cost
$132,000/year (based on
25MPG and 2.85/gal)
Timeline
On-going
Comprehensive
Support for Action
· Municipal Climate Action
Plan
· COB Complete Streets
Ordinance
· Bozeman Area
Transportation Plan
· Bozeman Community Plan
· Bozeman PROST Plan
Existing Actions
· College/Huffine Pathway
Project
· GVLT Main Street to the
Mountains Trail System
Partnerships
· Community Transportation
Enhancement Program
(CTEP)
· Transportation
Coordinating Committee
(TCC)
· Gallatin Valley Land Trust
(GVLT)
64
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 51
TSP2- ADOPT A MINIMUM OF A 1-MILL LEVY FOR STREAMLINE DIRECTLY
Description
One mill would provide the necessary revenue to allow Streamline to expand its
coverage of the city and therefore reduce the number of automobiles on the
streets of Bozeman. The city will facilitate the contribution of 1 mill designated
to the Streamline system as a direct payment. Streamline is also dedicated to
the exploration of van pools as well as continuing our use of park and ride
locations.
Streamline transportation is funded primarily through federal dollars. Moving to
a fare system would disqualify Streamline from these funds. Expenses associated
with providing public transit would exceed the potential income generated by
moving to a fare funded system.
Summary of Benefits
· Reduction in energy usage will create less demand for fossil fuel
production
· Reduction of single automobile traffic throughout Bozeman
Similar Actions in Other Cities
Most cities and counties have a mass transit system that is a public entity and
funded by the tax payers through locally collected taxes. Our system is unique
because it depends on local donations and partners for its existence with the
majority of our funding coming through the state with federal dollars.
References and Other Resources
http://www.transitchicago.com/travel_information/fares/reduced.aspx
http://www.dot.state.fl.us/research-
center/Completed_Proj/Summary_PTO/FDOT_BC137_38_FF.pdf
http://www.capemaycountygov.net/Cit-e-
Access/webpage.cfm?TID=5&TPID=8504
http://www.alternet.org/environment/57802/
Carbon Reduction
Potential
175 MTC02e (based on
500 additional daily
passengers)
Department
Finance
Savings/Cost
No new taxes would be
imposed
Timeline
Yearly support starting
in 2012
Comprehensive
Support for Acton
Growth Policy
EDP
PROST
Existing Actions
The city of Bozeman
has budgeted .5 mills
for Fiscal 2011.
Partnerships
Belgrade, Livingston,
Gallatin County
65
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 52
TSP3-INSTALL CHARGING STATIONS AT MAJOR PUBLIC FACILITIES STARTING WITH THE PARKING
GARAGE AND PROMOTE THE INSTALLATION OF CHARGING STATIONS AROUND TOWN
Description
The first affordable, mainstream plug-in electric vehicles from GM (Chevrolet VOLT)
and Nissan (LEAF) are now available. EVs from Mitsubishi, Think, Wheego, Coda,
Fisker and Tesla are expected to hit the road within the next year. It’s a new era in
the US auto industry as tens of thousands of EVs are sold. The Electric Power
Research Institute estimates that by 2020, over 35% of all new vehicles sold will be
plug-ins.
Replacing a gas combustion engine vehicle with an EV is one of the easiest and
quickest ways to reduce ghg emissions without compromising lifestyle. Initially
launching in key metro areas, EVs won’t be available in Montana showrooms until
the end of 2011. Largely because of Montana’s “SUV and truck” culture, the number
of EVs in Montana is expected to be low, relative to urban centers. As hybrids
became very popular when a gallon of gas exceeded $4.00, EV ownership in Montana
will increase with the next spike in fuel prices. Bozeman’s time to plan and prepare
for the arriving electric cars is limited.
Most EV owners will charge their cars in home garages at night. However, cities
across the country are preparing for the EV by installing quick-charging stations in
key locations. Electric cars can be plugged into either a standard 110-volt outlet or a
dedicated 220 volt charging station. The higher the voltage / amperage, the faster
the charge time and thus, the daily driving range. For example, the 2011 LEAF has a
24 Kw Lithium battery pack which provides a range of 80 miles between charges. If
one commutes to Bozeman in a LEAF, plugging-in while at work doubles the range to
160 miles. Similarly, a city-owned EV could be plugged-in during a lunch break or
meeting, thereby making it a practical fleet vehicle. Charging stations reduce “range
anxiety” and they are key to popularizing the EV.
Summary of Benefits
According to the most recent NASA funded Vulcan study, Gallatin County cars, trucks
and buses emit 33% of the county’s CO2 fossil fuels emissions. When a Bozemanite
starts up their car in the morning, it’s probable they’ll be driving less than 80 miles
that day, less than the range of a Nissan LEAF. Most of the time, we’re using our cars
for local driving, not long distance trips. Today’s EV is ideal for local driving. Leave the
gas car in the garage, or for those who just own an EV, renting a gas car for long
distance trips saves money when one factors in the cost of car payments, fuel and
insurance.
For every gallon of gas consumed by an internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle, 20
lbs of CO2 are emitted.
- A city vehicle, such as a Jeep Liberty gets 16 mpg (City). Driven 15K miles per
year, it emits over 9 tons of CO2.
- A gas/electric hybrid emits under 4 tons of CO2 per year.
- An all-electric vehicle produces ZERO CO2 if charged using solar, wind,
Carbon
Reduction
Potential
225MTCO2e
(based on 100
charging
stations)
Department
Finance
Savings/Cost
Timeline
Implement
2012
Comprehensive
Support for
Acton
EDP
Existing Actions
Partnerships
NWE, Chamber
of Commerce
66
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 53
thermal or hydropower generated electricity.
- An EV powered by Northwestern Energy grid electricity generates roughly
1.5 tons of CO2 per year, 1/6th the Jeep Liberty and 1/3 of a hybrid
(Northwestern Energy’s buys a mix of Coal, NG, biomass, hydro and wind).
- In addition to reducing CO2 emissions, EVs eliminate smog-causing pollutants
- EVs use local domestic Montana-made electricity, not imported oil.
- EVs are quieter and don’t idle at traffic lights.
- Electric heater work quickly and don’t require a warm engine running.
Similar Actions in Other Cities
First wave EV cities: Austin, Denver, Los Angeles, New York, Madison, Orlando,
Phoenix, Portland, Raleigh, Riverside, Sacramento, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose
and Seattle.
Portland, OR -
http://www.portlandtribune.com/news/story.php?story_id=128103660048734100
Madison, Wisconsin -
http://www.mge.com/images/pdf/electric/other/ElectricVehicleChargingStations.pdf
Sacramento, CA - http://www.evchargernews.com/regions/ch-sac-all.htm
References and Other Resources
CO2 calculator - http://www.afteroilev.com/emissions.php
Vulcan CO2 study - http://www.purdue.edu/eas/carbon/vulcan/GEarth/index.html
Nissan Leaf - http://www.nissanusa.com/leaf-electric-car/index#/leaf-electric-
car/index
Chevy Volt - http://www.chevrolet.com/volt
EV Cities - http://www.greenbiz.com/blog/2010/11/12/how-americas-50-largest-
cities-rate-ev-readiness?page=full
Project Get Ready - http://www.projectgetready.org
The EV Project - theevproject.com
Ecotality Charging Stations - http://www.ecotality.com/
Coulomb Technologies – Charging Stations http://www.coulombtech.com
A Better Place - http://www.betterplace.com
67
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 54
TSP4- ADOPT AN ANTI-IDLING ORDINANCE
Description
Adopt an anti-idling ordinance to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, conserve energy
and protect the health of citizens.
Summary of Benefits
Reduce vehicle miles traveled and fuel emissions by promoting a pedestrian and bike
friendly community. Vehicle idling is responsible for millions of dollars per year in
wasted fuel. Idling for 10 minutes per day wastes an average of 26 gallons of gasoline
per year. An average individual can expect to save more than $40 per year by simply
turning off their engine. Reducing idling will also reduce the emission of nitrous
oxides, carbon monoxide and VOCs that are emitted from a vehicle’s tailpipe.
According to the American Lung Association, asthma is the most common chronic
illness in children and the leading cause of school absences, and children’s asthma
symptoms increase as a result of exposure to car exhaust.
Similar Actions in Other Cities
Hundreds of communities around the country have adopted anti-idling ordinances, and a full
list of locations and codes can be found on the EPA s website at
http://www.epa.gov/smartway/documents/420b06004.pdf. Other specific cities are:
· Town of Brattleboro, VT. “No-idling” public education campaign and require a clause
in its contracts with construction firms prohibiting idling.
http://www.brattleboroclimateprotection.org/
· City of Bellingham WA. Education campaign with a goal to reduce 5,295 MTCO2E by
2012. Whatcom Transportation Authority established a policy that buses staging for
more than two minutes should not be idled except in extremely cold weather.
http://www.cob.org/issues/climate-protection.aspx
· City of Burlington, VT. Legacy launched its No Idling Campaign in April 2007 with
public outreach, education, and policy advocacy efforts.
http://burlingtonclimateaction.com/climate-action-plan/
· City of Medford, MA. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has mandated a 5-
minute maximum idling time for vehicles. Idling Enforcement Program for municipal
operations, which will enforce the 5 minute idling time. The primary method of
enforcement will be through an educational program as well as through incentives.
http://www.medford.org/Pages/MedfordMA_Energy/FINAL_LAP.pdf
· City of Seattle, WA. Anti-idling signs have been posted at key places. The City
partners with Puget Sound Clean Air Agency
(http://www.pscleanair.org/actions/vehicles/noidle.aspxto) to get the word out.
http://www.seattle.gov/archive/climate/
· City of Vancouver. The idling by-law came into effect July 18, 2006. City by-law
enforcement officers can issue $50-$100 tickets for violations.
http://vancouver.ca/sustainability/climate_protection.htm
· Jackson Hole, WY. They proposed an Idle Free regulation in 2008.
(http://www.ci.jackson.wy.us/resources/files//Government/F.%20Meeting%20Agen
das/Council%20Packets/2008/051908/Public%20Comment/idling.pdf)
References and Other Resources
· http://www.epa.gov/cleanschoolbus/antiidling.htm
· http://deq.mt.gov/Recycle/CleanAirZone.mcpx, Clean Air Zone Montana
· http://www.jhunderground.com/2010/03/15/idle-free-ordinance-advances/
Carbon Reduction
Potential
1,100 MTCO2e
(Based on 500 vehicles idling
1hour/day/240 days /year at
$2.79 diesel)
Department
Parking Enforcement
Savings
$330,000/year
(based on 500 vehicles)
Timeline
Education Campaign
can be implemented
immediately,
pending discussions
of ordinance
Comprehensive Support
for Action
Existing Actions
City of Bozeman,
Municipal Climate Action Plan,
TLU-7. Anti-idling ordinance.
Partnerships
Gallatin Health Partners
68
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 55
TSP5- ALLOW BUSINESSES TO INSTALL SHOWERS AND PROVIDE BIKE PARKING TO REDUCE THE
NUMBER OF REQUIRED PARKING SPACES FOR THE SIZE OF THE BUSINESS
Description
Every bicycle ridden for transportation is one less car which reduces traffic and
the need for parking. People who ride bikes for transportation which would most
likely be increased by this change in regulation are healthier and need less medical
care.
Provide an alternative to parking requirements such as “payment in lieu of
parking" options for the downtown area, and allowing developers (throughout the
municipality) to replace some of the required parking with on-site/near-site
bicycle or transit improvements to reduce the number of miles driven and
encourage more people to bike to work.
Zoning requirements could include:
· In situations where a mix of uses creates staggered peak periods of
parking demand, shared parking calculations can be made to reduce the
total amount of required parking. All non-residential uses may share
parking areas.
Summary of Benefits
Similar Actions in Other Cities
DC Zoning Shower
thttp://app.dcoz.dc.gov/content/schedule/ViewFile.aspx?fileId=206&fileName=PHN08-
06-2_07-31-08.pdf
References and Other Resources
http://www.piercetrips.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=16
Carbon Reduction
Potential
7mt/year( based on
36 people switching
to bikes)
Department
Planning
Savings/Cost
No cost
Timeline
On-going
Comprehensive
Support for Acton
Partnerships
Bicycle Advisory
Board
69
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 56
TSP6- INTERCONNECT AND ENHANCE SIDEWALK NETWORK
Description
In an effort to reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT), the fragmented sections of the existing
sidewalk network should be better connected. In addition to interconnecting the existing
sidewalk system, additional sidewalks, shared-use paths and trails should be added to the
network connecting a variety of destinations.
Connecting neighborhoods, schools, employment centers, commercial districts, and socio-
cultural destinations with sidewalks, trails and paths will encourage citizens to drive less.
Where possible, high-priority sidewalks, trails and paths should be lit with pedestrian scale
lighting to encourage more use at night and during the winter months.
The Municipal Climate Action Plan mentions the “Sidewalk Program” ordinance:
“This program is currently on the books and requires homeowners to pay
for sidewalks to provide connectivity in the pedestrian system. This
program has been put on hold because of public backlash, but there is
still the need for a connected, usable pedestrian facility.”
Considering that public sentiment has not dramatically changed, this policy could be more
strategically implemented. Focusing on specifically identifying, prioritizing and
constructing important missing links in the sidewalk network would be more pragmatic
than trying to enforce a city-wide blanket ordinance.
The most important aspect of this recommendation is to connect high-use districts with
one another thus providing citizens with an alternative to driving a vehicle for their day-to-
day needs.
Recent projects have done just this by targeting key areas of town needing better
pedestrian connectivity. One example is the College/Huffine Pathway Project which
connects MSU with housing down College Avenue and the growing commercial district
west on Huffine. Another example is the recent installation of missing sidewalks to better
connect the North 7th corridor.
Both of these examples used complimentary funding sources:
· Community Transportation Enhancement Program (CTEP)
· Tax Increment Financing (TIF)
Summary of Benefits
A comprehensive system of sidewalks, trails and paths will encourage and accommodate
more citizens walking and riding bicycles rather than driving vehicles. The reduction in
VMT will not only yield a reduction in CO2 emissions, but will also lower the impact on
streets thus reducing maintenance costs.
An interconnected network of sidewalks, trails and paths contribute significantly to
Bozeman’s quality of life that is based on healthy lifestyles and the great outdoors. This
healthy outdoor-centric quality of life attracts tourists, new residents, and relocating
businesses which in turn bolster the local economy.
Carbon Reduction
Potential
147 MT (Based on
reducing VMT by 1/10th
of 1 percent
Department
City of Bozeman
Streets Department
COB Parks &
Recreation Department
COB CTEP Committee
Savings
$26,448/year (based
on 2.85/gallon)
Timeline
On-going
Comprehensive
Support for Action
· Municipal Climate
Action Plan
· COB Complete
Streets Ordinance
· Bozeman Area
Transportation Plan
· Bozeman Community
Plan
Existing Actions
Recent examples of
similar projects:
· College/Huffine
Pathway Project
· North 7th Sidewalk
Project
Partnerships
· Tax Increment
Finance Districts (TIF)
· Community
70
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 57
Similar Actions in Other Cities
Missoula Complete Streets Resolution
http://www.ci.missoula.mt.us/DocumentView.aspx?DID=1956
Missoula Sidewalk Master Plan
http://www.ci.missoula.mt.us/DocumentView.aspx?DID=3041
Helena Non-Motorized Travel Council
http://www.ci.helena.mt.us/fileadmin/user_upload/City_Public_Works/hats/Documents/NMTAC.pdf
References and Other Resources
www.walkscore.com
www.completestreets.org
Transportation
Enhancement
Program (CTEP)
· Montana
Department of
Transportation (MDT)
· Gallatin Valley Land
Trust (GVLT)
71
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 58
TSP7-SUPPORT A LOCAL OPTION GAS TAX TO FUND PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION AT THE COUNTY
LEVEL
Description
Additional funding from a reliable local source can build Streamline service and invest
in bicycle and pedestrian facilities. A mill levied by an Urban Transportation District
(UTD) provides the best opportunity to collect that funding.
Summary of Benefits
A dedicated funding source supports carbon friendly transportation options. Other
benefits have been conservatively estimated at $3.40 for every $1 spent (Ecosometrics
1998). An incomplete list of benefits for an improved transportation system are:
· Improved mobility and access to jobs for people who are economically, socially, or
physically disadvantages.
· Reduced cost of vehicle ownership, operating costs, and parking costs for people
who choose alternative transportation. This is more apparent to people when the
price of gas rises.
· Supports land use objectives such as infill, efficient public services, clustering,
accessibility, land use mix, and preservation of ecological and social resources.
· Healthier lifestyles among riders, bikers, and walkers. Potential savings on parking
garages or surface lots at MSU and other places of high demand
The UTD provides the following advantages over our current situation or over a
municipal bus system:
· Upon voter approval, the UTD can leverage mills to fund Streamline, Galavan, and
bike/pedestrian facilities. The amount is higher than a municipal system could
leverage.
· The UTD board members are focused on transportation.
· A UTD is politically better suited to provide service outside its political boundaries
compared to a municipal system. Since transportation needs do not match
political boundaries, this is important.
· Transportation does not have to compete with other programs for funding from
municipal general funds.
Similar Actions in Other Cities
All reliable transit systems in the United States use local sales tax and/or property tax.
Billings, Missoula, Great Falls, Butte, Helena, and Big Sky all contribute property tax
funding through either the city general fund or the Urban Transportation District.
Missoula, Great Falls, Big Sky, and a few small communities use the Urban
Transportation District.
References and Other Resources
Litman, T. Evaluating Public Transit Benefits and Costs Best Practices Guidebook.
Victoria Transport Policy Institute, Victoria, BC, 2010.
http://www.vtpi.org/tranben.pdf
Ecosometrics, Inc. Assessment of the Economic Impacts of Rural Public Transportation.
Transit Cooperative Research Program, TCRP Report 34. Final Report., Nov. 1998.
http://www.trb.org/publications/tcrp/tcrp_rpt_34.pdf
Carbon Reduction
Potential
100MT (200 additional
passengers
Department
Finance
Savings
$102,00/year
(20MPG /715,000VMT
reduced at $2.85/gallon)
Cost
2cents/gallon
Timeline
2011
Comprehensive
Support for Action
Transportation Plan
Jurisdiction
County
72
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 59
TSP8-EXAMINE EMISSIONS FROM GALLATIN FIELD AIRPORT AND ITS EFFECTS ON THE
SURROUNDING AREA
Description
Gallatin Field Airport is the only airport serving as a year-round gateway for two
Yellowstone National Park entrances. It also serves the recreation areas of Big Sky
Resort, Moonlight Basin and the Bridger Bowl Ski Area as well as the business centers
of Bozeman, Belgrade and Livingston and higher education at Montana State
University. The Gallatin Airport Authority has embarked on a significant expansion of
the airline terminal building. This expansion is the largest airline terminal expansion
ever in the state of Montana. The Gallatin Field Airport handles approximately
700,000 passengers every year. Of these passengers, 300,000 use rental cars,
100,000 use buses, taxis and shuttles and 300,000 are either dropped off at the
terminal or use the pay parking lot. Aircraft arrivals and departures from Gallatin
Field most certainly contribute to the greenhouse gas emissions in the Bozeman
area. Reducing the amount of trips would not be economically feasible to the
community; however, thoughtful and early planning should look to encouraging the
use of alternative types of fuels.
A life cycle analysis of the carbon footprint of camelina-based biojet fuel concludes
that the renewable fuel reduces CO2 emissions by 75 percent compared to
traditional petroleum-based jet fuel, according to a peer-reviewed paper published in
the journal Environmental Progress & Sustainable Energy. The study also found that
“green” diesel made through the same process reduces CO2 emissions by 80 percent.
Since air transport is a relatively "compact" industry, it would be logical for the air
transport industry to be one of the first sectors within the transport industry to take
the lead by using alternative fuels. However, the challenge is that aviation's demand
may not be sufficient to justify the important investments required. Hence the idea
to consider the role of airports in supplying alternative fuels not only to aircraft and
ground airport activities, but also to the local communities around airports.
Summary of Benefits
· Reduce emissions in the aviation sector
· Create jobs by increasing demand for locally produced camelina
· Decrease dependency on foreign oil
Similar Actions in Other Cities
In 2009, the U.S. Navy and the Air Force contracted with Sustainable Oils for more
than 140,000 gallons of camelina biojet fuel. Just recently, both groups exercised
contract options for additional camelina biojet fuel, bringing the total to nearly
500,000 gallons to be delivered in 2010 and early 2011
References and Other Resources
Carbon Reduction
Potential
TBD
Department
Climate Protection
Savings
Timeline
On-going
Partnerships
County/
Sustainable Oils/
Airport Authority
Jurisdiction
Airport Authority
73
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 60
http://www.bozemanairport.com/
http://www.susoils.com/dynamic-content/csArticles/articles/000000/000093.htm
http://www-personal.umich.edu/~murty/planetravel2/planetravel2.html
http://www.atag.org/content/showissue.asp?level1=3&level2=472&folderid=472&p
ageid=1084
74
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 61
TSP9-REFORM TAXI PERMITTING PROCESS TO REMOVE CURRENT BARRIERS FOR CLEAN FLEET
SERVICES
Description
When taxi service is more convenient and affordable, citizens are more likely to use
cabs rather than their own cars to get around. Visitors arriving at the airport are more
likely to take cabs from the airport to hotels, or visit friends and relatives.
Bozeman is currently served by only one taxi cab company – Greater Valley Taxi. GVT
typically operates 3 cabs at a time, with an additional cab Thursday – Saturday nights.
GVT cabs are older sedans and mini-vans and get between 15 and 20 MPG. It typically
takes between 20 minutes and an hour to call a cab. Cabs are not generally not
available at the airport or downtown without a reservation.
GVT fares are comparable to other Montana cities where little or no competition
exists. Fares are $4.50 for the first person plus $3.50 for each additional passenger plus
$2.50 per mile. There is an additional $1.50 pickup fee at the airport.
By comparison, Yellow Cab in Missoula charges $5.50 plus $1.00 for additional
passengers. Green Taxi in Missoula, which runs hybrid Prius cabs, charges $5.00 for
pickup plus $2.50 per mile. Helena Transportation has a base rate of $10 or less for
most fares within the City limits.
Montana Representative Mike Phillips has submitted a bill draft request (LC 1070) that
would allow the first green taxi fleet in any Montana community to be automatically
permitted and would disallow any protest to the PSC on that application. The bill draft
is currently on "hold," which probably means that Rep. Phillips has received a first draft
of the bill and is waiting more information before having it finished. This bill would
accomplish the goal of the task force. The bill will likely be opposed by taxi operator
who already has permits simply because they don't want competition.
Summary of Benefits
Affordable and readily available cabs offer an alternative to people who do not have a
drivers license, cannot afford, or do not wish to own a car, and are traveling at times or
going to places not serviced by Streamline.
Similar Actions in Other Cities.
Missoula Hybrid Taxi Service - http://missoulagreentaxi.com
Eugene Oregon Hybrid Taxi Service- http://eugenehybridtaxis.com
References and Other Resources:
http://tinyurl.com/2g48nx2
http://www.greatervalleytaxi.com
http://missoulagreentaxi.com/
http://yellowcabmissoula.com/
http://www.helenatransportation.com/
Carbon Reduction
Potential
Negligible
Department
Savings/Cost
None likely
Timeline
2011 Legislative session
Comprehensive
Support for Acton
Montnaa LC 1070 by Rep
Mike Phillips
Existing Actions
Partnerships
Jurisdiction
PSC
75
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 62
Community Spotlight
Bozeman Public Schools Safe Routes to School Program
76
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 63
CHAPTER 7
WASTE, WATER, & RECYCLING
Waste, Water & Recycling Sector Recommendations
The WWR working group met four times throughout May 2010. The group included members from the
City Sanitation and Water Reclamation facilities, the MSU pollution prevention program, Gallatin Zero
Waste Coalition, Liquid Solar Systems, Civil Engineers, TRuVue
Accounting Solutions, Global Gradient Systems, and citizens at
large. The group identified three strategies to reduce emissions in
this sector.
Strategies
1. Promote an Integrated Waste Management System
2. Promote Waste Reduction and Water Conservation
3. Pursue Alternative Energy Generation
Existing Measures
Several Programs are in place to help reduce emissions in this sector. The Sustainability Advisory Board
should look to these programs as they begin implementing the recommendations in this section.
· Bozeman Recycling Program
· Gallatin Zero Waste Coalition
· Livingston Glass Recycling Program
77
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 64
WWR1- SUPPORT A FULL WASTE CHARACTERIZATION STUDY WHICH INCLUDES THE POTENTIAL
DEVELOPMENT OF A TRANSFER STATION TO MINIMIZE TRIPS TO LOGAN LANDFILL.
Description
As a community, there are many opportunities to reduce our carbon footprint
through waste reduction. The first place to start is by developing a full waste
characterization study which would identify the various components to effectively
reducing the waste stream. These could include but are not limited to community
composting systems, a material recovery facility, improving waste reduction and
recycling opportunities, household chemical collection, and glass
crushing/pulverizing and re-use options.
A study is critical to identifying these opportunities and to determine ways to
improve the existing waste disposal infrastructure and system to make it more
efficient, reduce the carbon footprint, and save money.
Summary of Benefits
· Reduced Vehicle Miles Traveled to haul waste
· Conserve landfill space
· Reduce landfill reclamation costs/materials
· Reduce threat to local water quality and ecosystems
· Increase supply of reclaimed materials and reduce consumption of virgin
raw materials
· Produce compost for sale and/or for landfill reclamation
· Reduce methane gas pollution
· Collaboration with regional communities and efforts to increase quantity
and decrease costs associated with recycling and transporting materials
Similar Actions in Other Cities
· Boulder, CO
· Regional Recycling Feasibility Study (YBP, MT DEQ. Recycle Montana)
References and Other Resources
http://www.stopwaste.org/home/index.asp?page=2
http://www.regionalrecycling.org/
http://www.mahoningcountyoh.gov/tabid/773/default.aspx
www.lakecountyil.gov
www.cityofshawnee.org
Carbon Reduction
Potential
TBD
Department
Solid Waste Department
Savings/Cost
TBD
Timeline
Comprehensive Support
for Action
Existing Actions
None know of at this time
Partnerships
Gallatin Zero Waste Coalition
Private Recyclers, YBP
Recycle Montana
MT DEQ
78
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 65
WWR2 - EXPAND/ REQUIRE COMPOSTING PROGRAM TO INCLUDE COLLECTION AND SEPARATION
OF ORGANICS ALONG WITH EXISTING PICK-UP
Description
All households, farms, most businesses, schools, and municipal waste treatment plants all
produce organic waste, including food, coffee grinds, and yard or landscaping materials,
including leaves, branches, and wood scraps. Every year, each American throws out about
1,200 pounds of organic garbage that can be composted. Vegetable scraps represent the
largest un-recycled portion of the residential waste stream. In fact, about 35% of
residential garbage is food waste and up to 70% of all municipal waste is organic by weight.
The city has an opportunity to collect and process this organic material and combine it with
other organic material in order to provide a beneficial and useful product: organic compost.
In order for this to work, garbage collectors need to provide a separate garbage can for
organic waste for their customers, and to pick up and transport that waste to a dedicated
area in site of the sewage treatment plant or the old Story Mill landfill site. Treated
municipal organic waste material can be combined with farm, landscaping, residential, and
business organic waste brought to the site. The waste is shredded and composted in about
12+ weeks, providing a number of saleable compost products.
Summary of Benefits
§ Rather than mixing good quality organic material with toxic waste, organic material
can be converted into high-grade planting and mulching material that will help support
city landscaping and local food production, a sustainable and energy efficient process;
§ Less trips to landfill to carry organic matter, reduced garbage truck fuel (including
reduced CO2 emissions) and reduced tipping fees for traditional dumping;
§ Less production of untreated methane which is 72 times more potent as a greenhouse
gas than carbon dioxide. By careful composting, around 75% of the methane can be
captured and used for energy;
§ Less need to ship compost into Bozeman and lower costs for city landscaping;
§ Provide an improved soil base for new plant material that will absorb carbon dioxide
and reduce need for fertilizers and pesticides;
§ The material is a new source of income to help offset waste management costs.
Similar Actions in Other Cities
§ Sonoma County in Northern California implemented a municipal composting program.
In 2008, this program converted 92,000 tons of yard debris into compost.
§ Seattle Washington organic recycling program
References and Other Resources
§ Recycling Economic Benefits study
§ Municipal yard trimmings cost benefit study
§ Organic Waste Feasibility Study, Grant County WA
§ Municipal composting of yard waste
§ Cal Recycle
§ Sonoma Compost Company
§ Seattle Zero Waste Strategy
§ San Francisco organic recycling
Carbon Reduction
Potential
35 Metric Tons of CO2e
Department
Bozeman Solid Waste
Division in coordination
with Gallatin Solid Waste
Management
Savings/Cost
From $5 to $30 profit per
ton of collected organic
waste
Timeline
4th Quarter 2011 to 2nd
quarter 2012
Comprehensive
Support for Acton
City waste management
plan
Existing Actions
Small scale farm or personal
recycling
Partnerships
Private Business or NGO’s
can compost and sell the
product, sharing revenue
with the City.
79
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 66
WWR3 - PROVIDE RECYCLING IN PUBLIC SPACES SUCH AS PARKS AND RECREATIONAL AREAS
Description
Bozeman avoided nearly 7,000 metric tons of CO2e from being emitted in 2007
through its recycling efforts. Increasing participation through accessible
receptacles is a low-cost effective way to promote recycling in the community. The
City should work with the private sector to facilitate recycling programs. Recycling
receptacles should be visible in public and private spaces including but not limited
to:
· Main Street
· All trails and parks
· Public recreational facilities
· Gallatin Valley Mall
Recycling reduces greenhouse gas production by utilizing the embodied energy of
the material being recycled. An example serves to best demonstrate this
reduction: Creation of an aluminum can from bauxite requires 1) mining of the
raw ore, 2) transporting it; 3) crushing it; 4) dissolving it in sodium hydroxide; 5)
heating under pressure; 6) filtering; 7) heating to 2000F to dry; 8) smelting (high
electrical use); 9) ingot production. The process entails much waste. Recycling of
aluminum cans essentially eliminates steps 1-7, thereby capturing the embodied
energy in the can and eliminating the greenhouse gas production associated with
those steps.
For recycling programs to work, the city needs to provide the public a) readily
accessible recycling opportunities, and b) the ability to recycle as many
commodities as possible.
Carbon Reduction
Potential
Department
Sanitation
Cost
Timeline
2011
Comprehensive Support
for Acton
Existing Actions
Gallatin Airport
DBA purchased receptacles
for Main Street
Partnerships
Full Circle Recycling
80
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 67
WWR4- ADOPT A 5 CENT FEE ON ALL PLASTIC AND PAPER BAGS
Description
Adopting a fee on single-use plastic bags will help shift consumers away from the
disposable mentality. This measure will reduce greenhouse gas emissions at the
source level by creating diminished demand for virgin sourced material. In addition,
it will also reduce plastic bags in the Logan landfill and provide funding for other CAP
measures.
The U.S. goes through 100 billion plastic shopping bags annually at an
estimated cost to retailers of $4 billion. (The Wall Street Journal). The average
family accumulates 60 plastic bags in only four trips to the grocery store. In
good circumstances, high-density polyethylene will take more than 20 years to
degrade. In less ideal circumstances (landfills or as general refuse), a bag will
take more than 1,000 years to degrade. An estimated 3,960,000 tons of plastic
bags, sack and wraps were produced in 2008. Of those, 3,570,000 tons (90%)
were discarded. This is almost triple the amount discarded the first year plastic
bag numbers were tracked (1,230,000 tons in 1980) (EPA). Anywhere from .5
percent to 3 percent of all bags winds up recycled. (BBC, CNN). When plastics
break down, they don't biodegrade; they photodegrade. This means the
materials break down to smaller fragments which readily soak up toxins. They
then contaminate soil, waterways, and animals upon digestion.
Summary of Benefits
§ Decrease demand for virgin material
§ Reduce contamination of soils and waterways
Similar Actions in Other Cities
Use of disposable bags in the District of Columbia has plummeted 86 percent since
the city first began imposing a fee on their use. Customers who tote their food or
liquor purchases home in store provided bags are now charged 5 cents for each one
they use. The fees go to a fund for cleaning up the city’s Anacostia River. Fewer than
3 million disposable bags were sold in January 2010, according to a report by the D.C.
Office of Tax and Revenue. That’s down from an estimated 22.5 million bags per
month used and disposed of by residents in previous months. A report shows the city
collected roughly $150,000 in January for the river clean-up fund. The bag fee is
estimated to raise $10 million over four years
References and Other Resources
§ http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/12/16/oregon-plastic-bag-ban-ga_n_797549.html
§ http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/40221169/ns/us_news-environment/
§ http://www.lbpost.com/news/ryan/10768
§ http://plasticbagbanreport.com/
Carbon Reduction
Potential
N/A
Department
Finance
Savings
$50,000 generated on 1
million bags
Timeline
Phase in by 2012
Jurisdiction
Plastic bag ordnance
81
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 68
WWR5- SUPPORT AN INCREASE IN TIPPING FEES TO ENCOURAGE WASTE REDUCTION
Description
Communities, businesses, and individuals around the country have
found creative ways to reduce and better manage Municipal Solid Waste
(MSW) through a combination of practices that include source
reduction, recycling (including composting), and disposal. According to
the US EPA, the most environmentally sound management of MSW is
achieved when these approaches are implemented in this preferred
order: source reduction first, recycling and composting second, and
disposal in landfills or waste combustors last.
Increasing the tipping fee for the City of Bozeman’s
municipal/commercial waste to fund local waste reduction/recycling
programs, supports an effort to provide incentives for businesses and
residences to increase their waste diversion efforts.
Summary of Benefits
· Reduced Vehicle Miles Traveled to haul waste
· Conserve landfill space
· Reduce landfill reclamation costs/materials
· Reduce threat to local water quality and ecosystems
· Increase supply of reclaimed materials and reduce consumption
of virgin raw materials
· Produce compost for sale and/or for landfill reclamation
· Reduce methane gas pollution
Similar Actions in Other Cities
· Newton Iowa – (pop 15,000)
http://www.iowadnr.gov/waste/p2/files/cs/newton02.pdf
· Alameda County, CA www.stopwaste.org
· Porter County, IN www.itmeanstheworld.org
· Mahoning County, Ohio
www.mahoningcountyoh.gov/tabid/773/default.aspx
References and Other Resources
· US EPA Waste Reduction Model
http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/waste/calculators/Warm_home.html
· US EPA Waste Wise Program
http://www.epa.gov/osw/partnerships/wastewise/index.htm
Carbon Reduction
Potential
240MT
(300lbs/person/year waste
avoided)
Department
Solid Waste Department
Timeline
Comprehensive Support
for Acton
Partnerships
Gallatin County Solid Waste
Board
82
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 69
WWR6- SUPPORT AN OPT-OUT POLICY FOR THE DELIVERY OF PHONE BOOKS IN THE AREA
Description
According to a recent article in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle, regulators in
many states are giving phone companies permissions to stop printing
residential listings since fewer people are using them. New York, Florida, and
Pennsylvania have recently approved requests to halt distribution of white
pages. Phone books represent a large cause of global warming. First,
thousands of trees must be harvested to create the phone books. The
cutting, transport, milling, pulping, and paper making processes all entail
large energy expenditures. Additionally, removal of the trees eliminates
their ability to sequester carbon as they grow. Large numbers of phone
books are never used and simply dumped to the landfill, where they
decompose to methane.
Summary of Benefits
· Reduce demand on natural resources
· Reduce waste being sent to the landfill
Similar Actions in Other Cities
References and Other Resources
Carbon Reduction
Potential
Department
Solid Waste Department
Jurisdiction
PSC
83
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 70
WWR7- HYDRO-GENERATION CAPACITY MUST BE INCLUDED WHEN CONSIDERING THE
CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW DAM
Description
Not available at this time
Summary of Benefits
Similar Actions in Other Cities
References and Other Resources
Carbon Reduction
Potential
Department
Savings/Cost
Timeline
Comprehensive
Support for Acton
Existing Actions
Partnerships
.
84
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 71
WWR8- DEVELOP WIND OR SOLAR ON-SITE POTENTIAL AT CITY FACILITIES
Description
Net metering laws limit the size of a renewable energy generation system to 50 kW
and power generated must be used on-site. The “Renewable Power Production and
Rural Economic Development Act,” however, directs the state’s investor-owned
utilities (IOU) to incorporate an increasing amount of renewable energy into their mix
of electricity resources. The logistics involved with transmission of power in large
quantities to the grid for sale to NorthWestern Energy are negotiated through a Power
Purchase Agreement and are site specific. The City and NorthWestern Energy would
determine if they would be willing to partner in a 100-200 acre solar farm at the old
Story Mill landfill. If a project of this magnitude is mutually beneficial to NorthWestern
Energy and the City, a feasibility study can be performed.
A feasibility study for all other City facilities (buildings) is a low cost way to determine
the best options for on-site generation. A load analysis is a large part of a feasibility
study according to Bozeman’s Independent Power Systems. The City is currently
working with Gradient Systems and has the capability to produce a load analysis for
any facility owned by the City.The process would be initiated by the City requesting a
facility feasibility study. The facilities most appropriate for on-site generation and the
compatible system options would be identified and documented.
Summary of Benefits
· A facility feasibility study is a low cost way to make further recommendations
regarding specific on-site generation projects
· Positive public perception regarding the Cities efforts to reduce emissions
through the feasibility study
· Contribute to community reductions Identification of tax incentives and
potential grant funding for facility projects
· A large scale solar farm would support the local economy while contributing
to the State’s goals.
Similar Actions in Other Cities
Other Montana Power Purchase Agreements
http://www.mtstandard.com/news/article_87a87129-2618-5459-8e2a-
09e5967c4e68.html
http://billingsgazette.com/news/state-and-regional/montana/article_81533d3d-d0c7-
5495-9f28-c371ebe7faa3.html
References and Other Resources
Montana Climate Action Plan
http://www.mtclimatechange.us/ewebeditpro/items/O127F14041.pdf
Montana Legislature
http://www.montanagreenpower.com/greenpower/legislation.php
http://data.opi.mt.gov/bills/2005/billhtml/SB0415.htm
http://www.mtrules.org/gateway/RuleNo.asp?RN=38.5.8302
http://www.mtrules.org/gateway/RuleNo.asp?RN=38.5.8301
http://meic.org/energy/energy_policy/renewable-energy-standard-progress-report
www.solarips.com
Carbon Reduction
Potential
Department
Administration
Savings/Cost
$500 - $5000 depending
on extent of the facility
feasibility study
TBD for a large scale
solar farm
Timeline
Commence on approval
of budget. A facility
feasibility study could be
completed in 30 days.
TBD for a large scale
solar farm
Comprehensive
Support for Acton
Existing Actions
Bozeman Public Library
Bozeman City Hall
Baxter Fire Station
Partnerships
NorthWestern Energy
85
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 72
WWR9- EXAMINE POTENTIAL OF METHANE CAPTURE FROM LOGAN LANDFILL COMPOSTING
PROGRAM
Description
Almost any organic material, with the exception of wood, can be used as an
input to create energy. A County composting program should be examined as a
possible fuel source for bio-gas production. Bio-gas is a carbon neutral energy
source which can be used in various applications such as:
· Electricity- for electrical production with combined heat and power
(CHP) units for residential and commercial applications.
· Heat- Direct burning applications in biogas boilers for industrial thermal
applications, residential and commercial
· Natural gas substitute -Biogas can be implemented in any natural gas
application by direct burning or further scrubbing.
· Biofuel-Direct use in biogas fleet and as a LPG/ natural gas substitute
after processing for fleet applications.
This recommendation should be considered in conjunction with WWR 1 &
WWR2.
Summary of Benefits
· Reduce organic waste volume by 40%
· Produce energy in the form of heat, electricity and fuel
· Produce valuable product, intermediate stage compost, from residual
organic waste
· Extend life of landfill
· Prevent the creation of LFG and the emission of GHGs
· Provide a proven and industrial scale technology
Similar Actions in Other Cities
http://www.anaerobic-digestion.com/html/msw_biogas_plants_in_china.php
References and Other Resources
www.biofermenergy.com
http://www.niir.org/books/book_pdf/114/%5BNIIR%5D%20Handbook%20on%2
0Bio%20Gas%20and%20Its%20Applications.pdf
Carbon Reduction Potential
TBD
Department
Sanitation
Savings/Cost
TBD
Timeline
3 year feasibility study
beginning summer 2011
Comprehensive Support
for Acton
Municipal CAP
Existing Actions
Partnerships
Belgrade, Logan, Three Forks,
Manhattan, Gallatin County
Jurisdiction
Gallatin Solid Waste Management
District
86
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 73
Community Spotlight
Bozeman Toilet Rebate Program
87
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 74
CHAPTER 8
ENERGY PRODUCTION
Energy Production Recommendations
After completing multiple work meetings over the course of a year, the Task Force had created a list of
36 recommendations. For the most part those recommendations focused on conservation.
Using ICLEI-supplied software, the Task Force attempted to quantify the reduction in CO2e that its 36
recommendations might return. With respect to that quantification, Task Force members would like to
provide a critical caveat:
While several members of the Task Force are engineers capable of the analysis necessary to develop
such quantification, this is not a trivial job that lends itself to volunteer work. Instead this is an
intense, interesting engineering task. Not all recommendations could be quantified with respect to
their viability for reducing global warming gases; those estimates that the Task Force does put forth
throughout this plan need to be recognized as highly first-pass in nature.
Given that caveat, the ICLEI software did reveal that the measures the Task Force had scoped looked
unlikely to allow the Bozeman to reach a 10% reduction CO2e output from 2000 levels by 2020, one of
the goals that the group had considered—though not yet firmly settled on at the time—for the City’s
Climate Action Plan.
With this result in hand, the Task Force decided to relook at the need to add production to the Climate
Action plan and to revisit the goal it would propose for the Climate Action Plan.
Need for City-controlled Energy Production
Reduction of Bozeman’s production of global warming gas output can come from three places:
decreasing the amount of greenhouse gases we produce given current energy sources, finding a way to
keep greenhouse gases we do produce out of the atmosphere, and/or not producing greenhouse gases
in the first place. The Task Force finds the first idea insufficient to meet our goals and the second not
ready in the timeframe we need. Thus, we believe adding energy production to our list of
recommendations was mandatory, as detailed in the bullets that follow:
· Decreased energy use, or conservation, is already set forth as part of most aspects of the plan
described thus far. As previously noted, the Task Force does not believe that conservation alone
will allow Bozeman to meet its reduction goals (more on goals in the next section).
· Capture and sequestration of global warming gases to keep them from being emitted to the
atmosphere is a potential future method for mitigating greenhouse gas output to the
atmosphere. However, the Task Force does not believe CO2 capture and sequestration (for
example, in geologic repositories or scrubbers currently under development) is a viable solution
in the short term so we have made no recommendations in that realm. The Task Force has
recommended that methane at the waste water treatment plant and landfill be captured and
used for energy production (with CO2, a less potent global warming gas, still resulting as a
88
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 75
gaseous emission). Methane capture is viable because of the economic return resulting from
combustion or fuel cell recovery of the energy stored within it.
· Changing the source of Bozeman’s energy supply to one that—at least in part—does not
depend on fossil fuels largely eliminates our production of greenhouse gases, principally CO2.
By changing to solar, wind, biomass, geothermal, and other non-fossil fuel sources of energy,
our city, like those across the country and the world, can greatly decrease our carbon footprint.
The Task Force recognizes issues such as chemical use in solar cell production, land use concerns
in wind power and transmission line placement, forest practices for biomass production, even
potential disruption of geothermal resources that might be a concern because of our proximity
to Yellowstone National Park’s geothermal features. However, we also believe these issues
must be balanced against the environmental and cultural damage already taking place as a
result of our current energy infrastructure. We believe in that light the case for moving to an
alternative energy future is compelling.
In our 29 November 2010 meeting with the Bozeman City Commission, the Task Force brought forth our
concerns regarding the need to greatly expand energy production opportunities to our list of
recommendations. The Commission agreed to this request, hence the addition of this final, initially
unplanned, chapter of Bozeman’s Climate Action Plan.
Setting Bozeman’s Municipal Reduction Goal
As noted previously, the Task Force had been tentatively considering a 10% CO2eq reduction goal from
2000 levels by 2020. Following review of the ICLEI-derived results from the multiple conservation
methods described in Chapters 4-7, the Task Force decided that it must make two changes to its Climate
Action Plan: a) greatly expand energy production recommendations (the focus of this chapter); and b)
take a hard look at the a reasonable goal for Bozeman’s Climate Action Plan. The remainder of this
chapter details Task Force recommendations for energy production as a way to decrease Bozeman’s
greenhouse gas emissions.
89
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 76
EP1—DEVELOP ALTERNATIVE ENERGY RESOURCES ON CITY-OWNED PROPERTY
Description
Bozeman owns a number of properties that can be directly
employed as sources of alternative energy generation.
1. Create community based solar array to allow citizens
option of buying locally produced alternative energy (i.e.,
investor or community owned solar projects).
2. Create solar hot water program for heating City pools
(Bogert, Bozeman High)
o set funding goal with City youth (grades k-8 for
Bogert; grades 9-12 for high school) and have
design and implementation of project be run by
MSU engineering students in conjunction with
Bozeman high school science classes;
o team with MSU and the Ridge to extend program
to include solar heating of two pools at those
facilities.
3. Create solar roofs on all Bozeman city schools (also City
buildings, parks buildings, library, jail, etc) as solar aspect
allows.
4. Develop ground mounted solar at the Bozeman / Belgrade
airport using the large available open space.
5. Develop ground mounted solar at the closed Story Mills
facility using the large available open space.
6. Develop ground mounted solar at any large, City-owned
open space including parks.
7. Team with MSU engineering and geology classes, plus
USGS Northern Rockies Science Center to assess:
o geothermal energy potential in the Gallatin Valley.
Based on results, potentially create City
geothermal electricity plant.
o Wind potential at City-owned sites
8. Work with Gallatin National Forest to create biomass
power facility from the logging to be done in the forest
directly south of town.
9. Work with MSU engineering (civil, chemical, mechanical)
to develop waste to energy plant as currently fully
Carbon Reduction Potential
TBD
Department
Multiple City Departments
including waste water, landfill,
buildings.
Savings/Cost
TBD
Timeline
Planning can begin immediately.
Many partnerships will need to be
developed. Likely implementation
of most plans to be beyond 2015,
even from 2020 to 2025.
Comprehensive Support for
Acton
Existing Actions
Partnerships
NW Energy, MSU College of
Engineering, Ridge, Solar hot
water and solar PV providers, wind
energy providers, Gallatin Airport,
USGS Northern Rockies Science
Center, Bozeman Public schools,
Gallatin National Forest, Zoot
Enterprises
90
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 77
operational in many European countries (similarly a plastic
to oil program has been developed in Japan)
10. Along with on-going study micro-turbine to convert excess
methane from WWT plant, work with MSU engineering
and ZOOT Enterprises to assess methane fuel cell as
method of electricity generation.
11. Require new PUD's (planned unit development) and
existing to look into shared geothermal heating provided
from a pond in the common area.
o Assuming design guidelines prescribe general
square footages which can give some basic
calculations for the pond size. At times it may not
provide all the heat so an electric boiler/furnace
would be a cheap back up plan. Photovoltaics
could then power the entire house. Water
geothermal system is the most efficient.
o Another option would be geothermal trenching in
the ground underneath common areas. It's not as
efficient as water but could be used the same way.
Summary of Benefits
Community benefits may include long-term reduction in taxes
and/or utility bills due to decreased operating costs of city facilities
that result from lower energy bills.
Similar Actions in Other Cities
1. Create community based solar arrays: see Clean Energy
Collective in the Roaring Fork Valley CO or Ellensburg WA
Solar Community Project.
2. Solar hot water program for heating City pools: see
following model of Arvada CO, supply hot water for city
pools; their array is expected to 30-40% of their recreation
building’s natural gas usage.
3. Create solar roofs on Bozeman city buildings: see a)
Santee CA where they created solar covered picnic areas
that save the school district $80k/yr; and b) Athenia School
in Danville CA.
4. Develop ground mounted solar at the Bozeman/Belgrade
airport: see Denver CO model where they entered into a
power purchase agreement with the solar array owner.
91
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 78
5. Develop ground mounted solar at the closed Story Mills
facility: see Sacramento CA, San Antonio TX, Fort Carson
CO, Ellensburg WA, Phoenix AZ, Haywood County NC who
all have solar farms built on retired landfills.
6. Develop ground mounted solar any large, City-owned open
spaces: see for example Wyandot County OH, Buffalo
Ranch Yellowstone National Park
7. For geothermal planning, see for example operations at
Boise ID and Klamath Falls OR.
8. Develop biomass power facility: see for example biomass
power plant at Middlebury College, Middlebury VT.
9. Develop waste to energy plant: see for example programs
in Denmark
10. NA
11. Precedent for geothermal set in the Midwest (reference
forthcoming).
References and Other Resources
Web links for the programs noted above will be forthcoming.
92
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 79
EP2—DEVELOP SOLAR HOT WATER PROGRAM FOR PRIVATE PROPERTY OWNERS IN THE CITY OF
BOZEMAN
Description
The average household in the United States expends 20-30% of its
energy to heat hot water. Many small commercial applications
heat more than 500 gallons of hot water per day. Without solar, all
of this energy is traditionally provided by conventional means -
electricity, propane or natural gas - all nonrenewable resources
that are often extensively transported from their source to the
homes where they are consumed. The City should partner with
NW Energy to incentivize solar hot water for installation on
residential and commercial buildings
Summary of Benefits
Community benefits may include long-term reduction in energy
bills.
Similar Actions in Other Cities
Follow California model to overcome four barriers to installation of
solar hot water to replace natural gas use and help NW Energy
meet required RFPs. Those barriers are education as to cost
benefit, upfront cost, permitting, and need for installation
workforce.
References and Other Resources
http://www.liquidsolarsystems.com/
Carbon Reduction Potential
400MT
(500 homes using 50gallons/day)
Department
Climate Protection and Water
Department
Savings
$107,00/year
Cost
$3,000/home
Timeline
Planning can begin immediately.
Many partnerships will need to be
developed. Likely implementation
of most plans to be beyond 2015,
even from 2020 to 2025.
Comprehensive Support for
Acton
Existing Actions
Buggy Bath
Partnerships
NW Energy, Liquid Solar Systems
93
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 80
EP3—CREATE THIRD PARTY SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC LEASE PROGRAM FOR PRIVATE HOMES AND
BUSINESSES IN BOZEMAN
Description
Solicit private companies to bring solar as a service to Bozeman
homes and businesses. Programs such as that provided by
companies like SolarCity allow both residential and commercial
sectors to add solar to their rooftops with minimal up-front costs
and few risks. SolarCity—or the bank financing multiple systems—
owns the PV system. The homeowner leases the solar system
(pays a fixed, known amount per year) and pays lower electricity
bills due to net metering.
Summary of Benefits
Often formulated as a power purchase agreement. The customer /
building owner generally pays for power at below market rates.
Similar Actions in Other Cities
SOLAR CITY AGREEMENT WITH CITY OF TUCSON. SEE
HTTP://WWW.SOLARCITY.COM/PRESSRELEASES/68/SOLARCITY-INTRODUCES-
SOLARLEASE%C2%AE-AND-SOLAR-SERVICE-AGREEMENT-OPTIO .
References and Other Resources
See as a supplier, for example, www.solarcity.com. Other
companies operate in the same market space.
Carbon Reduction Potential
Direct replacement for each Kwatt of
energy replaced by clean power
purchase.
Department
Savings/Cost
Lease programs can offer below
market price energy costs to building
owner.
Timeline
Negotiations can begin immediately.
Implementation likely will take place
over 10 years from 2015-2025.
Comprehensive Support for
Acton
Existing Actions
Partnerships
NW Energy, Solar City or similar full
service solar provider. See
www.solarcity.com.
94
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 81
EP4—PURCHASE CLEAN POWER TO OFFSET CARBON EMISSIONS FROM ENERGY SOURCES BASED
FOSSIL FUEL CONSUMPTION
Description
Purchase wind power from Judith Gap--or other large scale
alternative energy production facilities as they become available--
to offset fossil fuel (coal, natural gas) derived energy usage.
Summary of Benefits
Potential for decrease in taxes as cost of city operations decrease
given power purchase negotiations can be done at lower than
fossil fuel market prices. May require incentives program or grant.
Similar Actions in Other Cities
One goal is for Bozeman to exploit local energy sources. For
example, Seattle switched its power base to hydro. They have
hydro power; we have wind power and should use it.
References and Other Resources
Forthcoming
Carbon Reduction Potential
14,000 MTCO2e
(20 %of electricity renewable)
Department
Cost
$730,000
(based on usage 4,100kWh/person
at $.022/kWh)
Timeline
Negotiations can begin
immediately. Program start will
depend on achieving suitable
pricing structure and availability of
utility-based clean energy.
Comprehensive Support for
Acton
Existing Actions
MSU Power Purchase Agreement
Partnerships
NW Energy, Judith Gap, other
wind energy providers
95
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 82
EP5—CREATE A BOZEMAN ENERGY TEAM
Description
Develop an active intergovernmental, public/private partnership to
create clean energy projects.
Critical aspects of the success of this team will be to:
· Create a tight City/NW Energy relationship that co-
promotes NW Energy energy savings programs. This
must be a strong relationship and should emphasize
such efforts as NW Energy’s E+ program.
· Create an active City of Bozeman/MSU partnership to
o seek grants using MSU engineering expertise
matched with City needs
o Solicit MSU engineering alumni to help bring
new alternative energy to Bozeman as a
testbed.
· Create an active City/Deaconess Hospital relationship
· Make use of large open space owned by Deaconess to
create solar farm that supplies large % of hospital
electrical needs
· Consider partnerships with faith-based communities in
the City as already set up in the EPA Energy Star
Congregations program
· Hire an energy czar for the City. This person would be
responsible for Bozeman’s energy profile from grant
writing to project implementation, working with
members of the Gallatin Valley Energy Team as
appropriate. Potential to make the job a consulting
effort with pay based fully on performance.
· Partner with Google Smart Meter or IBM Smart Cities
to create one of nation’s first smart grid cities. Both
companies are starting smart grid programs.
Summary of Benefits
Along with reducing emissions, program will reduce energy costs
for both public and private entities.
Carbon Reduction Potential
Dependent on projects selected
Department
City Manager’s Office
Savings/Cost
Dependent on projects selected
Timeline
Begin formation and planning
efforts immediately
Comprehensive Support for
Acton
Existing Actions
NW Energy audits and rebate
programs already in progress
Partnerships
NW Energy, Chamber of
Commerce, MSU, Deaconess
Hospital, Gallatin County
96
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 83
Similar Actions in Other Cities
1. City / university partnership examples:
a) Solar energy farm created by St. Johns
University in conjunction with St John's
Abbey
b) Biomass power plant using willows grown
just outside of town at Middlebury
College, Middlebury VT
c) New Boeing concentrating PV system
recently installed at California State U in
Northridge CA
2. City / Hospital partnership examples:
a) VA Hospital in Philadelphia
References and Other Resources
97
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 84
CHAPTER 7
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION
Community Engagement and Implementation Recommendations
The Task Force recognizes the challenges associated with implementing the recommendations in this
report. Many measures cut across various City departments, County and State jurisdictions, and
private/public realms. The successful implementation of
this report will be the culmination of increased
cooperation and collaboration between these entities.
Some measures presented in this section cannot be
specifically quantified in terms of greenhouse gas
reductions; however, they are critical tools which should
be used to further the goals of the CCAP. The Task Force
recommends that all measure in this section be given the
highest priority as the first step in implementing the
Community CAP.
CEI1-APPOINT A PERMANENT SUSTAINABILITY ADVISORY BOARD (SAB)
Description
Implementation of the CCAP will rely on effective monitoring of progress by members of the community. This
recommendation is to create a permanent advisory board who will work with the Community Coordinator to
promote projects as technology and opportunities arise. We recommend an 8 member board to be appointed
representing the following sectors:
· City
· County
· Private Business
· Utility
· NGO’s
· University
· Transportation
· Citizen-at-large
CEI2- CREATE A COMMUNITY COORDINATOR POSITION FOR CLIMATE ACTION PLANNING
Description
As climate action planning is a fluid process, the successful implementation of the strategies presented in this
climate action plan will require continual management, measurement, and course correction. Presently this effort
is handled through the efforts of a contract position and the efforts of a voluntary committee. This
recommendation is to formalize a position within City government to handle management of the climate action
98
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 85
plan as well as other sustainability initiatives.
The Coordinator position would facilitate the objectives of the Community Climate Action Plan. Working with
businesses, utilities, and community members, the Coordinator would develop collaborative projects, measure
progress, and produce periodic greenhouse gas emissions inventories.
The Coordinator should be skilled in climate action plan development and management, emissions inventorying,
project management, and city government processes. Since this person will help promote rebates available through
NWE, the City should partner with NWE to research opportunities for partial funding of this position.
Summary of Benefits
· Organized and credible management of Community Climate Action Plan implementation.
Similar Actions in Other Cities
· Pittsburgh, PA Climate Action Plan Recommends Creation of a Full-Time City Sustainability Coordinator
Position http://www.pittsburghclimate.org/documents/PittsburghClimateActionPlan.pdf
· http://www.aashe.org/documents/resources/pdf/duke_desc.pdf
· http://www.nukejobs.com/nucdetailjobs/2886479/1/Sustainability-Coordinator.html
CE3-PERFORM EMISSIONS INVENTORY EVERY 3 YEARS AND PROVIDE ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORTS TO
COMMUNITY.
Description
Consistent data management has been the greatest barrier to success in creating Climate Action Plans around the
country. Developing systematic tools to accurately measure greenhouse gas emissions will create increased
predictability in this sector. Cooperation between the Utility, Waste, and Transportation sectors are essential to the
effective monitoring of ghg emissions.
The Community Coordinator (CC) will be responsible for performing an emissions inventory every 3 years.
Completing an emissions inventory is an essential step in the implementation phase of the plan. Performing an
emissions inventory will allow the City and SAB to adjust for changes in new technologies and monitor the effects of
current measures on the reduction of emissions. The CC should work with NorthWestern Energy and the
Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Department to create a energy usage database. A memorandum of use
(MOU) can be signed by both parties to obtain energy usage data information for the City of Bozeman. This should
be viewed as a high priority as obtaining this information could take several years.
99
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 86
CE4-CREATE COMMUNITY WEBSITE FOR EXISTING PROGRAMS WHICH INCLUDES AN ONLINE CARBON
CALCULATOR
Description
An online carbon calculator can help estimate greenhouse gas emissions and explore the impact of taking various
actions to reduce emissions. Tools such as a carbon calculator are a low cost, voluntary, and effective method to
engage the community in reducing its carbon footprint. The City will be responsible for creating and maintaining a
webpage on the city website dedicated to the Community Climate Action Plan. This will serve as a one-stop shop for
information and activities available to citizens.
Similar Actions in Other Cities
http://www.medford.org/Pages/MedfordMA_Energy/sustmedford_060907
http://www.ci.keene.nh.us/sustainability/climate-change
http://www.bouldercolorado.gov/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=43&Itemid=87
CE5-DEVELOP AN EDUCATION CAMPAIGN PROMOTING- NO-IDLING, ELECTRIC VEHICLES, THE BENEFITS OF
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION, AND TRANSPORTATION AWARENESS IN GENERAL.
Description
Education and marketing efforts can have a significant effect in getting people to choose other transportation
modes besides driving, in many cases comparable to the effect of much more expensive system upgrades.
Successful marketing efforts involve a two-way flow of information, finding out what people want in transit and
what information will help them use it. Individualized marketing has been particularly successful, surveying people
to find out their interest in automobile alternatives, then sending targeted information they request about what is
available in their particular location.
Similar Actions in Other Cities
· Seattle’s One Less Car Program gives incentives for households to experiment with giving up a car and help
in using other transportation modes. One third of the households had sold, or were selling or thinking
about selling the extra car two months after the end of the program.
http://www.cityofseattle.net/waytogo/onelesscar.htm
· Portland OR targeted 600 households the first year, 6,100 the second year, and 20,000 each year after
Carbon Reduction Potential
400 MT CO2e with 500 households targeted
100
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 87
CEI6: SUPPORT THE YELLOWSTONE BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP’S GREATER YELLOWSTONE FRAMEWORK FOR
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT (GY-FRAMEWORK)
Description
The GY-Framework is a voluntary ecosystem-based rating system that is modeled after the U.S. Green Building
Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program. This regional rating system includes and
goes beyond the application of LEED green building standards to address the nationally significant natural and
cultural values of the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem, including biodiversity, land use and conservation,
transportation, recreation resources, public service and infrastructure, and community vitality.
City of Bozeman employees were instrumental not only in developing the GY-Framework, but also in tailoring the
existing requirements to better suit governmental jurisdictions using a more applicable and highly flexible and
voluntary, rating system. This system will guide our communities on a path to increasing the livability of our region,
and ultimately, reducing our carbon footprint. Being a pilot for the GY-Framework will assist the City of Bozeman in
coordinating its various sustainability efforts.
Summary of Benefits
YBP will:
· Contract with a code-writing consultant with experience on a regional scale to develop model codes and
tools to implement measurable metrics/goals outlined in existing plans
· Complete affordability band/analysis of need/immediate post-recession assessment of where development
dollars should be focused: what is the housing stock, current/continuing need, what is affordable given
current employment pictures in each area?
· Coordinate with/expansion of Linx regional transportation co-op
· Highlight several “commuter-sheds” (targeted areas are the two Teton Counties Idaho and Wyoming,
Gallatin/Park counties, Pocatello and surrounding communities, Idaho Falls, Rexburg, and
Billings/Yellowstone County/Carbon County)
o Tie-in existing plans and visions
o Identify catalytic projects in each commuter-shed for implementation funding
· YBP and local government pilot sponsors will utilize the GY-Framework as a guidance document, and
demonstrate how each prerequisite and credit can be practically achieved on the ground. Jurisdictions will
utilize and improve existing growth plans, codes, policies and regulations to follow the criteria outlined in
the Framework, and collaborate with neighboring jurisdictions in implementation and information sharing
to address development on a regional scale.
Cost
$500 pilot registration fee, certification fee (intended to be mitigated by grant funds obtained by YBP)
Savings TBD at end of pilot phase
Timeline
3-year pilot phase starting in early 2011
Comprehensive Support for Action
Municipal Climate Action Plan, Bozeman Community Growth Plan
Existing Actions
101
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 88
Common Sense Program Partners- Archer Construction, City of Bozeman, DA Davidson,
Montana Import Group,Riverbend Builders,The Garage, Greenspace Landscaping,Intrinsik Architecture, Inc
Bridger Bowl,Montana Yellowstone Expeditions, Blanchford Landscape Contractors
Mackenzie River Pizza Co,Mountain Home Montana Vacation Rentals, On Site Management,
Refuge Sustainable Building
Partnerships
YBP, USGBC ,SWMBIA, Chamber of Commerce, NWE, USDA, FDA, NCC s BLM, MSU
Similar Actions in Other Cities
City of Pocatello, community of Teton County Idaho/Driggs/Victor
References and Other Resources
www.yellowstonebusiness.org
CEI7 PARTICIPATE IN THE SOUTHWEST MONTANA BUILDING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION (SWMBIA) ANNUAL
HOME SHOW
Description-
The SWMBIA Home Show offers the city of Bozeman and its CAP task force the opportunity to educate
the public about its efforts to mitigate CO2 emissions. The task force will also have an opportunity to
learn from the public creative ways to implement the existing recommendations and may also learn new
and pioneering ideas to compliment its efforts.
Summary of Benefits
· Provide an educational opportunity engaging the City of Bozeman Climate Action Plan task force
and the public.
· Offer another venue for the public to participate and take personal ownership of our community
goals to increase our local energy efficiency.
· Inspire voluntary action to reduce CO2 emissions.
· Display CAP timeline to 2025 emission goal.
· Provide outreach, awareness, and to garner widespread support of the CAP.
· Further efforts to brand the CAP with the public
· Provide updates and results of CAP progress.
102
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 89
CEI8: PROMOTE EXISTING NORTHWESTERN ENERGY’S DEMAND SIDE MANAGEMENT ENERGY
EFFICIENCY AND REBATE PROGRAMS.
Description
NorthWestern Energy offers a variety of programs, services, and resources to help their Montana
electric and natural gas customers better manage energy use and energy costs. The City can encourage
energy efficiency and energy conservation by promotion these existing programs.
During the period from July 2009 through June 2010, NorthWestern Energy offered 23 programs to its
residential and commercial customers. Some of these programs offered rebates for energy efficiency
improvements, while others were primarily educational in nature and scope. Below is a list of those
programs, while the details and descriptions of each program are available on NorthWestern’s website
www.northwesternenergy.com.
Summary of Benefits
· Reducing electric and natural gas consumption through energy efficiency will reduce carbon
emissions.
· Since NorthWestern Energy already has these successful programs in place, the cost to the City
will be minimal to promote these programs.
· Nearly all of the residents of the City of Bozeman are NorthWestern Energy electric and natural
gas customers, so they qualify to participate in these programs.
Carbon Reduction Potential
4,284 MTCO2e – based on 29,827 electric customers and 22,685 natural gas customers living in
Bozeman. This number is also based on historic customer participation during the Tracker Year July
2009 through June 2010.
Department
Climate Protection Coordinator, Neighborhood Coordinator, Finance Department.
Savings/Cost
If all 29,827 electric and 22,685 natural gas customers fully participated in the NorthWestern energy
programs, the energy savings within the Bozeman city limits could approach $800,000.
References and Other Resources
www.northwesternenergy.com
www.montanagreenpower.com
www.deq.mt.gov
CEI9: PROMOTE PROGRAMS THROUGH THE NEIGHBORHOOD CONSERVATION CLUBS
Description
Neighborhood Conservation Clubs (NCCs) are a forum to take action and conserve resources by working
within small neighborhood groups. The NCCs are guided with resources and suggestions from the NCC
103
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 90
organizers who include home energy efficiency specialists, transportation experts, landscape designers
and building contractors. Bulk pricing for home weatherization efforts could be realized through
effective use of the NCC’s.
Neighborhood conservation clubs (NCCs) though our Bozeman neighborhoods would be responsible for
informing homeowners of bulk insulation programs that would be made available at a reduced cost if
more than 15 homeowners would be willing to upgrade their insulation at the same time. This block
type program would be voluntary and labor would be provided by volunteers as well as homeowners
who wanted the discounted pricing to upgrade attic and other insulation for their homes.
Summary of Benefits
This will benefit the homeowners by reducing their energy bills while also reducing their carbon
emissions. This is the most cost effective way to reduce energy demand while also reducing carbon
emissions from residential buildings. This may also provide additional work for local insulators where
homeowners want a professional installer to do the work instead of the conservation club members.
Other benefits to this program would be better air quality for the residents of Bozeman.
Similar Actions in Other Cities
AERO(Alternative Energy Resource Organization) Promotes NCCs around the state of Montana and is
currently looking to expand support to neighborhoods who have members that want to make a
difference in terms of climate change and energy efficiency. Missoula is also attacking energy efficiency
through block grants where whole neighborhoods that sign up get free or reduced cost upgrades to
their insulation by professional installers.
References and Other Resources
http://www.aeromt.org/ncc.php
http://www.ci.missoula.mt.us/DocumentView.aspx?DID=4035
104
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 91
Community Spotlight
Neighborhood Conservation Clubs
105
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 92
Appendix A
Raw Data
106
Not intended for distribution Bozeman Climate Action Plan Draft
Prepared by Sustainable Planning Solutions
www.cacheo.com Page 93
Appendix B
Mayors Climate Protection Agreement
107
•P. O. Box 7021 • 25 N. Willson, Suite E • Bozeman, MT 59771 •
• 406-587-8404 • Fax 406-582-1136 • www.gvlt.org • landtrust@gvlt.org •
January 6, 2011
City of Bozeman
Attn: Mayor Jeff Krauss
121 N Rouse
Bozeman, MT 59771
Dear Mayor Krauss,
GVLT applauds the City of Bozeman’s initiative to explore options for reducing carbon emissions.
While many of the proposals in the draft Community Climate Action Plan are outside the scope of
GVLT’s mission, transportation planning and policy and our community’s overall growth pattern are
issues that are directly connected to both GVLT’s work and to our community’s carbon footprint.
GVLT strongly urges you to adopt a Climate Action Plan that includes specific proactive steps to achieve
the development pattern described in the Bozeman Community Plan – a development pattern that
encourages and enables the use of diverse modes of transportation through design that is neighborhood-
based, higher density, mixed use and pedestrian friendly.
Specifically, GVLT supports incorporating an interconnected network of trails, sidewalks, bike lanes, safe
street crossings, transit infrastructure and a grid street system as part of all new development and street
construction. Construction of specific infrastructure improvements cited in the Bozeman Area
Transportation Plan and the Parks Recreation Open Space and Trails Plan should be pursued proactively
whenever possible. Prioritizing and constructing missing links in our sidewalk system should be a
particularly high priority. We support creating a new multi-modal coordinator staff position to act as a
liaison between city departments, developers and the public to ensure that opportunities are not missed
and that construction of these facilities is well planned and coordinated.
By themselves and especially in combination, we believe implementing these recommendations will both
reduce the number and shorten the length of vehicle trips. Fully integrating facilities for safe and
convenient walking, biking and transit into our community’s infrastructure will result in immediate
benefits as well as a long term cultural shift toward less dependence on personal vehicles. It will also
provide significant community benefits by improving public health and economic vitality through
enhanced livability and quality of life.
In conclusion, we urge you to support a Climate Action Plan that includes a combination of incentive
based, voluntary and mandated programs to achieve these goals.
Thank you for your consideration,
Ted Lange
GVLT Community Trails Planner
108
Honorable Bozeman Mayor and City Commissioners,
I strongly encourage you to adopt the Bozeman Community Climate Action Plan. I believe strong
climate protection legislation will only come about at the local level first. This is why it is important that we
join other municipalities and show the leadership necessary to motivate the state and federal government
to act on climate protection.
Sincerely,
Alex Russell
413 N Brady St.
Bozeman, MT 59715
109
To whom it may concern,
As a local business leader, on of my main priorities in the realm of social responsibility is to
educate and effect change in the areas of energy conservation and renewable energy production.
Taking action to fight climate change should be non-negotiable. Please support the Bozeman
Community Climate Action Plan and prioritize the reduction of our city's greenhouse gas
emissions.
Respectfully,
Conor M. Darby
General Manager
NABCEP Certified
Independent Power Systems
810 N. Wallace Ave. Suite A
Bozeman, MT 59715
Ph: (406) 587-5295
cdarby@solarips.com
110
City of Bozeman
Attn: Mayor Jeff Krauss
121 N Rouse
Bozeman, MT 59771 December 23, 2010
Dear Mayor Krauss,
I am writing to express my support for the “City of Bozeman: Mayor’s Climate Protection
Agreement”.
Thank you for your leadership moving these important policies forward.
As a homeowner in the city of Bozeman, I believe that policy changes to promote reduction of carbon
emissions are critically important to preserving the quality of life that attracts people and businesses to
our area. It is this exceptional and unique quality of life that keeps our economy thriving and our
property values high.
Reduced emissions and improved air quality are also important for the health of our children, who are
most susceptible to ozone-induced asthma attacks. Already, during the summer months, smog is
evident over the Gallatin Valley. The problem is worsening each year.
I am especially supportive of section TSP4 of the Plan: Adopt an anti-idling ordinance to reduce carbon
dioxide emissions, conserves energy, and protects the health of citizens. CO2 and diesel fumes are well
documented health hazards.
Idling vehicles are common sight in our city. They are an unnecessary and easily preventable health
hazard. I often find idling vehicles parked along downtown streets, billowing fumes at pedestrians
walking by. I’ve even witnessed citizens leave an unattended vehicle running while they do their grocery
shopping.
I am also very supportive of section TSP7 - Support a local option gas tax to fund public transportation
at the County level.
Rather than a mil levy on property owners, a gas tax directly taxes those creating the most emissions
and allows drivers to pay to help offset those emissions by funding improved public transportation. I
believe this tax should also be used to fund other means of improved alternative transportation, such as
sidewalks and bicycle lanes.
Sincerely,
Darren Long
107 S. 10th Avenue
Bozeman, MT 59715
111
To: City of Bozeman
Attn: Mayor Jeff Krauss
121 N Rouse
Bozeman, MT 59771
From: Casey Dudley
4240 Cascade #C
Bozeman, MT 59718
January 5, 2011
Dear City of Bozeman,
I am writing in support of the Bozeman Community Climate Action Plan. I feel this
initiative is exactly the kind of leadership that emulates the values of our
community. When I read about similar leadership in other communities, in the
Rocky Mountain West and around the world, I am always thinking to
myself…”what are we doing as a leadership community?” If other communities
are able to execute this kind of leadership, why can’t Bozeman. So, I applaud
your support of this action plan.
Respectfully,
Casey Dudley
112
December 16, 2010
City of Bozeman
Attn: Mayor Jeff Krauss
121 N Rouse
Bozeman, MT 59771
Dear Mayor Krauss,
I’m writing in strong support of the Community Climate Action Plan generated
by the The Mayor's Community Climate Task Force and Working Groups.
Bozeman is uniquely positioned to be a leader in tackling climate change; with a
strong community consensus for action, access to excellent science from MSU,
and a large pool of leaders in climate change and planning.
We are also a small enough community to be able to enact policies which would
have a major impact and could serve as a national model for community action.
I urge you and the City Commission to act quickly to implement the Task Force
Plan.
Sincerely yours,
Geoffrey Stephens
Geoffrey Stephens
205 S.CHURCH AVE BOZEMAN, MT 59715 geoffstephens@bresnan.net
TEL (406) 586-0381
113
January 6, 2011
City of Bozeman
Attn: Mayor Jeff Krauss
PO Box 1230
Bozeman, MT 59771
Dear City of Bozeman and Mayor Jeff Krauss,
I have reviewed the Mayor’s Climate Protection Agreement document (11/29/2010) prepared by Hattie Baker
with particular attention to proposed recommendations for Residential and Commercial Buildings, Transportation,
Waste, and Community Engagement. As a whole, I approve of the recommendations made, and of the City’s
focus on reducing Bozeman emissions through energy conservation and renewable energy generation.
I believe the City and community of Bozeman have a responsibility to minimize our emissions and maximize our
efficient use of energy wherever possible. Additionally, I believe the adoption of strategies to lower our
emissions, produce renewable energy locally, and increase the livability and walkability of our community will
further enhance and promote the city’s twenty-first century image that attracts investment and talent to our city.
Finally, and importantly, I believe adopting these recommendations will further assist in protecting the abundant
natural amenities that surround us and give us such a tremendous economic advantage and high quality of life.
I would like to thank the Climate Task Force and Working Groups for their attention and dedication in preparing
this report. I look forward to learning more, staying engaged, and seeing these recommendations enacted in our
community.
Thank you for the opportunity to share my thoughts.
Sincerely yours,
Jeff Fox
615 South Black Avenue
Bozeman, MT 59715
T 406-599-2916
jefflfox@gmail.com
JEFF L. FOX CONSULTING
114
115
City of Bozeman
Attn: Mayor Jeff Krauss
121 N Rouse
Bozeman, MT 59771
Dear Jeff,
In the fifteen years I have worked in Mongolia I have witnessed the effect of warming climate on
the flora surrounding Lake Khovsgol, the 14th largest fresh water lake in the world. Raising
temperature is dramatically affecting permafrost depth and releasing carbon dioxide sequestered
by the permafrost. The same conditions have increased grass production in areas around the lake
which have attracted heavier grazing. That heavier grazing then reduces the vegetation cover
and further exacerbates the permafrost changes. This is not idle speculation, but comes from
research conducted over the last ten years by Dr. Clyde Goulden of the Academy of Natural
Sciences in Pennsylvania.
I mention this because a: Mongolia and Montana have much in common in terms of landscape,
climate, latitude and b: the consequences of what we think of as small changes in temperature (1-
2 degrees) can actually have sudden and profound impacts which are only evident when we have
passed the temperature Rubicon.
As a local business owner (20 years in Bozeman) I applaud the city's efforts to use best science
and political vision to make every effort to dimish the city's carbon footprint. For a variety of
reason, not the least being the presence of MSU in our midst, Bozeman has an opportunity to
break new ground and be a positive example to small towns throughout the Northern Rockies.
I heartily support the efforts of the City of Bozeman to address climate change through
community efforts to reduce our carbon footprint.
Sincerely,
Kent Madin
Owner/Director Boojum Expeditions\
14543 Kelly Canyon Road, Bozeman, MT 59715
4065952310
116
January 3, 2011
THE LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS®
OF THE BOZEMAN AREA
Bozeman City Commission
121 N. Rouse
Bozeman, MT 59715
Dear Mayor Krauss and Bozeman City Commissioners,
A priority of the League of Women Voters of the United States, the League of Women Voters of
Montana and the League of Voters of the Bozeman Area is to do all that is possible to reduce carbon
emissions. The fact that 97% of climate scientists agree that human‐caused carbon emissions are
affecting climate change is compelling, but in addition to this strong consensus, benefits of reducing
carbon emissions include developing important new technologies and industries that will help us
become more energy independent and will benefit our economy.
The League of Women Voters of the Bozeman Area is very pleased that the City of Bozeman signed the
Mayor’s Climate Protection Agreement and commends the Commissioners. The implementation of the
Municipal Climate Action Plan in 2008 was an important first step. However, we now know that
approximately 36% of the City’s emissions are from the residential sector, and in order to make our
commitment meaningful, we must also reduce these emissions.
The Mayor’s Community Climate Task Force (MCCTF) has worked carefully with the results of research
done by Sustainable Planning Solutions and has developed carefully considered recommendations for
the Complete Community Climate Action Plan, scheduled for implementation this year. The League
urges the Commissioners to give careful thought to these recommendations and approve a plan that will
help the City meet our reduction goal for 2020. Bozeman has before it a unique opportunity to showcase
itself as a leader of medium sized municipalities in wise planning. Moreover, it is extremely important
that Bozeman acts—especially in the face of inaction on the national level.
The Task Force recommendations are not Draconian. What will be Draconian is what our children and
grandchildren will face if we do nothing.
Sincerely yours,
Sally Maison, President
League of Women Voters of the Bozeman Area
Board of Directors
President 1st Vice President 2nd Vice President Secretary Treasurer
Sally Maison Jan Young Judy Mathre Anne Banks Priscilla Dysart
Teri Ball ● Jane Hawks ● Deb Hensold ● Virginia Holman ● Roxanne Klingensmith
Susie McDonald ● Sue Meadows ● Marjorie Peterson ● Rosanne Nash ● Camie Smith ● Cathy Weeden
P.O. Box 371, Bozeman, MT 59771 www.lwvmt.org
117
Dear Mayor Krauss,
I am writing in support of the proposed Community Climate Action Plan.
This is an idea whose time has come, is economically feasible, and will clearly benefit the health of our
community, ecology, and ultimately our economy. The beauty and progressive attitude of this town are
what drew me here for employment two years ago, and what will continue to attract sustainable growth
in the future.
The proposed Climate Action Plan will additionally strengthen the efforts associated with the present
efforts proposed in the MSU climate action plan, which I believe will help to integrate the university
population with the city population and ideally beneficial synergies between the two entities.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Andrew R. Sabalowsky
1209 Fox St.
Bozeman, MT 59715
!i!i!i!i!i!i!i!i!i!i!i!i!i!i!i!i!i!i!i!i!i!i!i!
Montana State University
Center for Biofilm Engineering
Bozeman, MT
118
I am a student at Montana State University, and have been living in Bozeman for the past three
years. I grew up in Darby, Montana.
I would like to share my support of the Bozeman Community Climate Action Plan. This plan is
important for a variety of reasons, perhaps the most important being Bozeman is in a great place
to set a path for the rest of the state. I would love to see Community Climate Action Plans spring
up throughout the state, but most towns need a guiding light, and I believe Bozeman has the
capability to provide that support, motivation and encouragement to the rest of the state.
Sincerely,
Shelby Rogala
MSU Student
Montana Native
119
January 3, 2011
City of Bozeman
Attn: Mayor Jeff Kraus
121 N. Rouse
Bozeman, MT 59771
Dear Mayor Kraus:
I feel very privileged to serve on the Mayor’s Community Climate Action Planning Board. It has certainly
been an eye-opener for me. I was unaware of the expertise that is available on a day to day basis to
deal with environmental and climate issues in the Bozeman area. I have certainly been impressed.
The reason for this letter is to offer my personal support as well as the support of the entire Streamline
Board for the Action Plan that has emerged from the committee work that has taken place over the past
year.
Public transportation has become an important part of life in Bozeman over the past few years and your
support is greatly appreciated, but our support goes much further than just transportation. Bozeman
has a chance to make a significant positive impact on the Gallatin Valley in the next several years, and
the Streamline Board wants to be a part of those changes.
The Streamline Board encourages careful consideration of the Community Climate Action Plan.
Sincerely,
Lee Hazelbaker
HRDC/Streamline Transportation
32 South Tracy
Bozeman, MT 59715
120
Attn: Mayor Jeff Krauss
PO Box 1230
Bozeman, MT 59771
Dear Mayor Krauss-
I am writing you this letter to urge you to support of the Community Climate Action Plan
currently before the City Commission for comment.
Bozeman is in a unique position of dramatically reducing its carbon footprint with a relatively
inexpensive and aggressive conservation effort. We are also fortunate that Montana State
University (Bozeman's largest energy user) is actively pursuing carbon reduction strategies
which will benefit the community. It is of utmost importance as a community for Bozeman to
address climate change and reducing our emissions, approving the Community Climate Action
Plan is a critical step in doing this. Thank you for your hard work and continued dedication.
Sincerely,
Wendy Weaver, P.E., LEED AP
Sustainability Consultant
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
1
The U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement
(As endorsed by the 73rd Annual U.S. Conference of Mayors meeting, Chicago, 2005)
A. We urge the federal government and state governments to enact policies and programs
to meet or beat the target of reducing global warming pollution levels to 7 percent
below 1990 levels by 2012, including efforts to: reduce the United States’ dependence
on fossil fuels and accelerate the development of clean, economical energy resources
and fuel-efficient technologies such as conservation, methane recovery for energy
generation, waste to energy, wind and solar energy, fuel cells, efficient motor vehicles,
and biofuels;
B. We urge the U.S. Congress to pass bipartisan greenhouse gas reduction legislation that
1) includes clear timetables and emissions limits and 2) a flexible, market-based system
of tradable allowances among emitting industries; and
C. We will strive to meet or exceed Kyoto Protocol targets for reducing global warming
pollution by taking actions in our own operations and communities such as:
1. Inventory global warming emissions in City operations and in the community,
set reduction targets and create an action plan.
2. Adopt and enforce land-use policies that reduce sprawl, preserve open space,
and create compact, walkable urban communities;
3. Promote transportation options such as bicycle trails, commute trip reduction
programs, incentives for car pooling and public transit;
4. Increase the use of clean, alternative energy by, for example, investing in
“green tags”, advocating for the development of renewable energy resources,
recovering landfill methane for energy production, and supporting the use of
waste to energy technology;
5. Make energy efficiency a priority through building code improvements,
retrofitting city facilities with energy efficient lighting and urging employees to
conserve energy and save money;
6. Purchase only Energy Star equipment and appliances for City use;
7. Practice and promote sustainable building practices using the U.S. Green
Building Council's LEED program or a similar system;
8. Increase the average fuel efficiency of municipal fleet vehicles; reduce the
number of vehicles; launch an employee education program including anti-
idling messages; convert diesel vehicles to bio-diesel;
9. Evaluate opportunities to increase pump efficiency in water and wastewater
systems; recover wastewater treatment methane for energy production;
10. Increase recycling rates in City operations and in the community;
11. Maintain healthy urban forests; promote tree planting to increase shading
and to absorb CO2; and
12. Help educate the public, schools, other jurisdictions, professional associations,
business and industry about reducing global warming pollution.
129