Item B: Sustainable Building - Laserfiche WebLink

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LEED is an independent, third-party certification system created to: · define "green building" by establishing a common standard of measurement; · promote integrated, whole-building design practices; · recognize environmental leadership in the building industry; · stimulate green competition; · raise consumer awareness of green building benefits; and · transform the building market LEED provides a complete framework for assessing building performance and meeting sustainability goals. Based on well-founded scientific standards, LEED emphasizes state-of-the-art strategies for sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality. The Facility Management Division is also using LEED for Existing Buildings (LEED-EB) to evaluate and implement sustainable operation and maintenance practices in General Fund buildings, and to develop strategies for improving their environmental performance. A comprehensive, sustainable building policy should address both new construction and ongoing building operating practices. Many cities in the U.S. and Canada have adopted sustainable building policies that establish LEED certification or LEED equivalency for city buildings of at least a certain minimum square footage. If the City of Eugene were to adopt a sustainable building policy for City buildings, it would: 1) demonstrate the City of Eugene's commitment to environmental, economic, and social stewardship; 2) yield cost savings to the City's taxpayers through reduced building life-cycle costs; 3) provide healthy work environments for staff and visitors; 4) contribute to the City's goals of protecting, conserving, and enhancing the region's environmental resources; and 5) establish a community standard for sustainable building practices. RELATED CITY POLICIES Sustainable development of City-owned buildings relates to the council goals of sustainable community development, healthy natural and built environment, and effective, accountable municipal government. COUNCIL OPTIONS This agenda item is informational only. However, council is asked to provide input on policy issues that should be considered in the development of a Sustainable Building Policy for City-owned buildings. CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION This agenda item is informational only. However, council is asked to provide input on policy issues that should be considered in the development of a Sustainable Building Policy for City-owned buildings. SUGGESTED MOTION This agenda item is informational only. However, the council is asked to provide input on policy issues that should be considered in the development of a Sustainable Building Policy for City-owned buildings. L:\CMO\2005 Council Agendas\M050427\S050427B.doc