HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-2-24 Climate Action Commission Agenda Packet
Iowa City Climate Action Commission Agenda
Monday, December 2, 2024, 3:30 p.m.
Emma J. Harvat Hall, City Hall
410 E. Washington St., Iowa City
Meeting Agenda:
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Approval of Nov. 18, 2024 minutes
4. Public Comment on items not on the agenda
-Commentators shall address the Commission for no more than 3 minutes. Commissioners shall
not engage in discussion with the public concerning said items.
5. Announcements – informational updates
a. Action items from last meeting
i. Staff will update the memo about bylaws and send to City Council
ii. Staff will send the recording of Ralston’s presentation to the City Council work
session on Nov. 19
iii. Staff will pass along transit questions raised in the November meeting to the
MPO, Greater IC, and City Council
b. Events
i. Other events in the community (Commissioners)
6. New Business
a. Midyear presentations from Climate Action Grant awardees – Plated Table, Oaknoll, and
Our Redeemer Lutheran Church
7. Old Business
a. CRANDIC Bus Rapid Transit Study/Pop Up Metro Discussion - update
b. Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – updates and discussion
8. Recap
a. Confirmation of next meeting time and location
i. Monday, Jan. 6, 3:30-5 p.m., Emma J. Harvat Hall
b. Actionable items for commission, working groups, and staff
c. Recognition of outgoing members
9. Adjourn
If you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate in this meeting, please contact
Sarah Gardner, Climate Action Coordinator, at 319-887-6162 or at sarah-gardner@iowa-city.org. Early
requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.
MINUTES PRELIMINARY
IOWA CITY CLIMATE ACTION COMMISSION
NOVEMBER 18, 2024 – 3:30 PM – FORMAL MEETING
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Michael Anderson, Michal Eynon-Lynch, Ben Grimm, Zach Haralson,
Wim Murray, Brinda Shetty, Michelle Sillman, Angie Smith
MEMBERS ABSENT: John Fraser, Jamie Gade, Gabriel Sturdevant
STAFF PRESENT: Daniel Bissell, Sarah Gardner, Megan Hill, Diane Platte
OTHERS PRESENT: Kelly Schneider, Johnson County Mobility Coordinator
NOMINATION OF TEMPORARY CHAIR:
Shetty nominated and Anderson seconded Eynon-Lynch to be temporary chair; motion passed
unanimously.
CALL TO ORDER:
Eynon-Lynch called the meeting to order at 3:34.
APPROVAL OF OCTOBER 7, 2024 MINUTES:
Shetty moved to approve the minutes from October 7, 2024. Grimm seconded the motion, a vote was
taken, and the motion passed 7-0.
PUBLIC COMMENT OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Action Items from last meeting (Staff):
• Staff found a date and time for November meeting
• Staff sent entire bylaws to the commission to review
• Staff included the completed Bus Rapid Transit study in agenda packet. Gardner reached out to
Cady Gerlach to discuss any updates on the Pop Up Metro concept and find a date to present to
the Commission, but scheduling difficulties had prevented them from meeting. Kent Ralston is
presenting to City Council Work Session about Bus Rapid Transit and Pop Up Metro Tuesday,
Nov. 19. Rather than sending the recording of the Joint Entities meeting, Gardner will send a
recording of the Nov. 19 Work Session to commissioners so that the most up-to-date
information will be provided.
Zach Haralson joined the meeting at 3:37.
Climate Action Commission
November 2024
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Events:
• Airport Solar Array Ribbon Cutting (Nov. 14, 10 a.m.)
o Shetty asked the size of the array. Gardner noted it was around 300 panels, 140 kilowatt
capacity, which is enough to power the terminal, the runway lights, and the ambulatory
hangar. Phase 2 of the project would power the research facility.
• Other events in the community: none shared.
• Strategic Plan was reviewed by City Council and there was one update: a call to renew the
Climate Action Plan and create a Climate Adaptation plan to work with in concert with it.
OLD BUSINESS:
Next steps on CRANDIC Bus Rapid Transit Study/Pop Up Metro discussion
• Gardner outlined possible next steps with a reminder of the role of the Commission as a body is
to research, analyze, and advise, though Commission members are also free and welcome to
engage in advocacy as individuals in the public sphere. In the capacity of the Commission, next
steps could be to sift through the information and raise key questions to help Council.
• Gardner offered the example of a potential need for additional engineering analysis on the
novel approach to charging the batteries of the train, which involves removing the batteries by
forklift and re-installing them, unlike other electric vehicles. Commissioners might advise the
Council on whether further analysis is warranted and also on the matrix created by Ralston for
Council to see if any outlying questions may still need to be answered.
o Anderson asked if Pop Up Metro is the only train concept under consideration. Gardner
noted there had been a previous study (from 2020) looking at train options for the
Corridor and noted the information not included in the Pop Up Metro concept such as
additional costs made them difficult to compare.
o Sillman asked about environmental benefits, and whether in the case of BRT the Crandic
line would be purchased rather than leased.
o Eynon-Lynch asked about impacts on cars off the road, carbon, road maintenance.
o Smith noted BRT seemed to have a better ability to be flexible, adaptable, and grow,
which would make it more equitable to more citizens, noting “zero-car homes
information” from the study.
o Eynon-Lynch wondered about expansion if the system proves popular and whether it’s
easier to get another bus or add another car to the train.
o Smith asked about the addition of parking. Gardner noted the BRT study included a
parking lot in North Liberty while the Pop Up Metro information. Gardner suggested
trying to draw from one plan where information might be missing from another to try to
better make side-by-side comparisons.
o Haralson said that seemed like a good approach and suggested it could be done with
considerations for a bike path as well. Gardner noted because the Pop Up Metro
proposal does not include a bike line at present, one of the questions to resolve is
whether the bike lane could be added after the train was up and running or if it would
be better constructed prior.
o Eynon-Lynch asked when does the Commission get to the point of making
recommendations. Gardner estimated it would likely be a series of recommendations on
information gathering at present, and a recommendation on a preferred system would
likely be months away. Gathering these questions now to share with Cady Gerlach and
Kent Ralston ahead of their future presentations would help speed the process.
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November 2024
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o Eynon-Lynch noted concerns with adding more pavement (for BRT) that would then
have to be maintained. She wondered if the bike path might have been included in the
BRT proposal because it would be an easy add to the other paving work being done, but
if a train were adopted, there wouldn’t be the same argument for adding a bike trail to
the project. She suggested the Commission consider trade-offs between fast
deployment and the benefits of a bike trail. She expressed concern about waiting for the
Council to request input and suggested considering a more proactive approach to
offering opinions to Council.
o Anderson offered that for this particular issue it might make sense to take a more
activist approach, given its importance to the group, but asked also if the Council is
considering taking action or had a timeline to do so. Gardner said she did not think there
was a firm timeline currently. She also offered that she had asked for guidance on the
role of the Commission in this discussion, knowing the question has come up before,
and that it was reaffirmed the Commission is meant to be a deliberative body that takes
a more analytical approach. She added this was not meant to say they could not also
make recommendations and offered the Commission’s response to the methane
feasibility study as an example, but said it was important not to put the cart before the
horse, making sure they had time to gather information before a recommendation was
made. Eynon-Lynch offered that deliberation on all the information might best happen
beforehand rather than waiting to be asked by Council.
o Haralson noted that Councilman Moe’s note about Pop Up Metro described two sets of
trains in existence and asked based on that how possible would it be to get more trains,
does Pop-Up Metro provide maintenance, how tested are the trains, are the trains a
product of the company they are trying to sell and how ready are they to produce more,
and how long has the company been doing battery charging and how tested is that
system?
o Smith asked about ease of procurement for buses versus trains, noting this technology is
in high demand.
o Anderson asked if a transit system to Cedar Rapids is possible as a consideration at this
point, or whether that is far into the future. Eynon-Lynch noted Kent Ralston’s previous
presentation had included the possibility of extending service to Cedar Rapids. Gardner
said although it was not part of the Pop Up proposal it also was not off the table, and
the work underway on a regional climate action plan made this a good time to ask those
questions. Haralson asked if regional transit was included in the Climate Pollution
Reduction Grant plan. Gardner explained it was not included in the Priority Plan because
those projects needed to be shovel-ready, but it would be very appropriate to include it
in the Comprehensive Plan.
Discussion of proposed updates to bylaws/CAC processes (Commissioners)
• Gardner provided context for proposed changes to the bylaws, noting that the current election
of chair and vice chair coincided with the introduction of new members, and moving the date
might better allow new members to participate in nominating, electing, and/or serving as chair
or vice chair. She also noted in the past there had been difficulties with the current excused
absence policy and the new wording would ask that members notify staff in advance to help
staff ensure quorum. She further noted there was nothing requiring these changes and offered
that current commissioners could table the discussion until January to allow new members to
participate in the discussion. The commission might also vote to change the meeting time, which
Climate Action Commission
November 2024
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can happen without changing the bylaws.
• Commissioners discussed the bylaws changes and the change to the meeting time.
• Haralson moved to change the vote for chair and vice-chair to December, Smith seconded,
motion carried unopposed.
• Shetty moved to change the absentee wording, Sillman seconded, the motion carried
unopposed.
• Commissioners decided to table the discussion about the meeting times until January when new
members have a chance to participate. Gardner noted in the tentative schedule for 2025
meeting dates a suggestion not to meet in July due to ongoing difficulty to achieve quorum that
month. The commissioners agreed.
RECAP:
Confirmation of next meeting time and location:
• Monday, December 2, 3:30-5 p.m. Emma J. Harvat Hall
Actionable items for commission, working groups, and staff:
• Staff will update the memo about bylaws and send to City Council.
• Staff will send the recording of Ralston’s presentation to the City Council Work Session Nov. 19
• Staff will pass along transit questions raised in today’s meeting to the MPO, Greater IC, and City
Council.
ADJOURNMENT:
Haralson moved to adjourn, Grimm seconded the motion. A vote was taken, and the motion carried.
Meeting adjourned at 4:45.
Climate Action Commission
November 2024
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CLIMATE ACTION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2023-2024
NAME
TERM EXP.
10
/
2
/
2
3
11
/
1
3
/
2
3
12
/
4
/
2
3
1/
8
/
2
4
2/
5
/
2
4
3/
4
/
2
4
4/
1
/
2
4
5/
6
/
2
4
6/
3
/
2
4
8/
5
/
2
4
9/
8
/
2
4
10
/
7
/2
4
Michael
Anderson
12/31/2025 NM O/E X O/E O/E X O/E X X
Michal Eynon-
Lynch
12/31/2024 X X X NM X X X X X O/E X X
John Fraser 12/31/2024 X X X NM X X X O/E X X X X
Jamie Gade 12/31/2025 O/
E
X X NM X X X X X X O/E X
Ben Grimm 10/31/2023 X X X NM X O/E X X O/E O/E X X
Zach Haralson 12/31/2025 NM X X X X O/E X O/E X
Matt Krieger 12/31/2023 O/
E
X O/E * * * * * * * * *
Wim Murray MidAmerican
Rep
X X X NM X X X X X X X X
Michelle Sillman 12/31/20025 X X X NM O/E X X O/E X X X O/E
Brinda Shetty UI Rep X X O/E NM X X X X X O/E X X
Angie Smith 12/31/2025 X X NM X X X X X X X O/E
Gabe Sturdevant 12/31/2024 X O/E X NM X X X X O/E X X X
Matt Walter 12/31/2023 X O/E X * * * * * * * * *
KEY: X = Present
0 = Absent
0/E = Absent/Excused NM=
No Meeting
* No longer on Commission
CLIMATE ACTION
GRANTS 2024-25
MIDYEAR REPORTS
DEC. 2, 2024
i c g o v .o r g /C l i m a t e A c t i o n G r a n t s
Highlight: “The landscaping has been amazing. Even in just the first year,
the difference in softening that corner has been really remarkable. Lots
of people commenting on it and it always feels really good to say ‘The
City provided this!’”
“The grant felt like a pretty low-barrier grant application. It really felt
very easy. It was a really positive experience.”
Problem-solving: “We weren’t awarded the money for bike racks, but
the City said we’ll just install those...It’s been a great improvement
and it lets us know that...also we just need more of them.”
Goals: to reduce food waste and ghg emissions by upgrading a fridge;
to provide ecosystem services and reduce stormwater runoff by
replacing pavement with native plantings
Contact: Thomas Agran, entrepreneur
Native plants & efficient
equipment at Plated Table
Highlight: “When I explain to people our goal is 50,000 pounds a year not
going to the landfill -- that makes people go ‘wow, this is awesome.’
So that’s been eye-opening for a lot of people.”
“We have pickup of the container on a weekly basis. On the first week,
since it was a new stop, they missed us. On the second week, the 3 cubic
yard container was completely full!”
Problem-solving: “We bought straws, plastic cups, coffee cups, lids – all
compostable. But [at the facility], it doesn’t compost quick enough, so
[our hauler is] having problems with it, being able get it composted.”
Goal: to divert organic waste away from the landfill, starting with
kitchens and expanding to include residents’ household waste.
Contact: Bruce Titus, Director of Dining Services
Compost Program at
Oaknoll Main Campus
Highlights and next steps: At Van Meter Electric, the MidAmerican
instant discount program was streamlined and efficient. The Green Iowa
AmeriCorps team will table at the Spring pancake breakfast.
“We’ve already seen savings in one month. We forecast several
thousand dollars savings in electricity for the year.”
Problem-solving: “We tried to eliminate waste as much as possible by
reusing the fixtures and just replacing the bulb. So that required
rewiring all the fixtures themselves. All the bulbs we had were able to
get to the City landfill recycle area where we disposed of them properly.
That was a big thing; we wanted to reduce the amount of waste.”
Goal: to reduce electrical energy waste. LED lighting will use ~40% less
energy than fluorescent lighting and also offer the advantages of
longevity, safety, and less material waste.
Contact: David Yansky, Chair of Property Maintenance
LED lighting upgrades at
Our Redeemer Lutheran Church
Summary of New Updates to Climate Action Work Plan – Update for December 2024
Buildings
Promote Energy Efficiency and Performance Tips to the Public: "Level Up" household electrification plan and
induction cooktop demonstration held as part of Climate Fest. (BE-1)
Partner with Stakeholders to Promote Green Building Construction and Rehab: Submitted a Community
Change Grant application to EPA in collaboration with The Housing Fellowship to support comprehensive energy
efficiency upgrades and solar installations in affordable housing units and public housing. (BE-2; BP-2)
Encourage the Local Realtor Community to Include Energy Performance in the MLS: Climate Action staff invited
to present on Iowa City's realtor engagement efforts on Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance webinar. (BE-3)
Incorporate an Education Component into Future Solar Installations on a City Property or Facility: Digital
signage created for airport lobby with information related to airport solar array; ribbon cutting included
speeches on benefits of solar. (BE-5)
Offer Free Home Energy Assessments Through Green Iowa AmeriCorps: New GIA team resumes audits;
collaboration with Johnson County extended another year; new electric Ford Lightning pickup ordered for GIA
team. (BI-1)
Consider a Building Permit Fee Rebate Program for Enhanced Energy Standards: Seven HERS grants awarded
during first 6 months of program, including two for multifamily dwellings and two for repeat applicants;
recognition planned for City Council meeting on Dec. 10 for best scoring builder. (BI-6)
Advocate for State Adoption of Advanced Energy Codes: Included in City Council State Legislative Priorities for
2024-2025 (BCP-1)
Solar or Battery Power Storage Partnership: Conversation initiated with Eastern Iowa Light & Power about solar
installation to power wastewater treatment operations (BP-1)
Municipal Building Efficiency and Electrification: Insulation added to City Hall as part of roof rehab project; LED
retrofit of third floor commences in December. (BP-3)
Advocate for State Legislative Changes to Enable Subscription-Based Community Solar: Included in City Council
Legislative Priorities for 2024-2025. (BP-4)
Upcoming Priorities:
• Begin energy efficiency improvements for properties enrolled in Whole Home Energy Retrofit pilot. (BI-
9)
• Request bids on City Park Pool project, to include significant mechanical system upgrades for energy
efficiency (BP-3)
Long-term/ongoing opportunities:
• Complete “Zero Carbon” design for new transit facility. (BP-3)
• Evaluate city operations for 100% renewable potential. (BP-3)
• Evaluate existing designs for Net Zero public housing in collaboration with Housing Authority (BP-2)
Transportation
Significant Transportation Education and Outreach Campaigns: Climate Fest includes a Transit Trivia night and
largest attended EV car show to date (17 different EV models, 1670+ attendees); Fare Free booth in ICDD pop up
space for Halloween event to encourage families to hop on downtown shuttle while exploring downtown. (TE-1)
Incentivize Public Transit Options: First year of Fare Free initiative show sustained ridership growth (450K
additional rides), including increase over previous August. (TI-1)
Review parking regulations and consider innovative way s to encourage alternative transportation: ICDD and
city staff collaborate on use of "Hello Lamppost" service for messaging on parking and transit service downtown.
(TR-1)
Establish an Electric and Fuel-Efficient Vehicle Purchasing Policy: Level 2 charging station installed to support
acquisition of electric vehicles for police department. (TCP-1)
Complete the Electric Vehicle Readiness Plan and Implement Recommendations: Iowa City Climate Action rep
added to steering committee to find new host organization for Clean Cities Coalition after state terminates
program contract with the Department of Energy. (TPP-2)
Upcoming priorities:
• Reengage landlords with EV charging for multifamily housing grant (TI-1)
• Review Parking Regulations and Reductions as part of Comprehensive Plan update process. (TR-1)
Long-term/ongoing opportunities:
• Explore feasibility of temporary “bike boulevard” street closure as part of Bike to Work week. (TR-1)
• Pursue EV charging infrastructure in parks. (TPP-2)
• Evaluating bus shelter distribution along transit routes for additions and improvements. (TCP-1)
• Explore Climate Change Analysis for new Subdivisions and Rezonings. (TR-2)
Waste
Engage the Public to Compost Organic Waste: AmeriCorps team partners with NewPi on mini-event to sell
compost bins. (WE-1)
Education Campaigns for Neighborhoods to Reduce Waste: Zoning code amended to allow for stand-alone
recycling redemption centers in commercial and industrial zones in response to changes in state regulations on
grocery store collection sites; recycling bins relocated from corner of Hwy 1 and Riverside to new Sturgis Ferry
recycling site. (WE-2)
Initiate a Methane Feasibility Study: Methane capture equipment purchased to capitalize on IRA funding
opportunity; design work begins to incorporate that equipment into the facility upgrades at the wastewater
treatment plant. (WCP-2)
Upcoming priorities:
• Evaluate opportunities to update energy systems at Eastside Recycling Center/Environmental Education
Center. (WE-2)
Long-term/ongoing opportunities:
• Scale current mattress recycling pilot program to serve all residents. (WE-2)
• Continue to explore partnership program to incentivize construction waste division. (WI-1)
Adaptation
Establish “Resilience Hubs”: NCJC completes planning process, moves into funding portion of the project; Bike
Library anticipates completing planning process in January. (AE-2)
Coordinate Efforts with Local Emergency Agencies: Climate Action Staff join the Community Organizations
Active in Disasters (COAD) coordinating group for Johnson County EMA (AE-5)
Incentives for Private Tree Planting: Fifth year of Root for Trees launched; 371 vouchers received from Aug-Dec
(AI-1)
Stormwater Management Programs: Dubuque Street renovation completed, pairing storm sewer
improvements with new curbside native plantings for stormwater management (AP-1)
Expand Public Tree Planting: 500 street trees planted along Mormon Trek Blvd, South of 6 SSMID boundary, and
targeted infill along additional streets; AmeriCorps team assists with tree planting at city-owned rental
properties; 875+ trees total planted in public areas in 2024. (AP-3)
Upcoming priorities:
• Progress both Resilience Hub partnerships into the implementation phase (AE-2)
• Collaborate with library on native plantings on Ped Mall and related education and engagement
programming. (AE-4)
Long-term/ongoing opportunities:
• Develop Review Standards for New City Facility Construction and Major Rehabilitation Adaptation. (AP-
1)
• Explore local funding options to continue floodplain buyouts. (ACP-1)
Sustainable Lifestyle
Host Sustainability Forum and Events: CoCoRAHS precipitation data collection training and "Nonprofit Nerd
Out" with local sustainability organizations held as part of Climate Fest. (SLE-1)
Develop a Climate Action Strategic Communications Plan: Scale of Hope screened at Climate Fest featuring a
prominent climate communications specialist discussing effective engagement. (SLPP-2)
Expand Community Climate Grants: - Collaboration underway with Resource Management staff to establish a
small grant to launch in 2025 to support adoption of resuable glassware, tableware, and to-go containers for
organizations and businesses. (SLI-1)
Community Garden Expansion/Additions: Survey sent to Chadek Green Community Garden participants to
gauge interest in piloting a no-till maintenance approach. (SLP-1)
Upcoming priorities:
• Establish “Reusables” grant with open/ongoing application period. (SLI-1)
• Host series of Lunch and Learn events to engage city staff across divisions and departments with plant-
rich and waste reduction food practices (SLCP-2)
• Review current local procurement incentives in City purchasing policies and explore adding a similar
small business incentive. (SLE-3)
Long-term/ongoing opportunities:
• Develop Sustainability Operations Guide for Iowa City organizations. (SLCP-2)
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
1
Ongoing
BE-1
Promote Energy Efficiency
and Performance Tips to
the Public
1.1 – 1.2, 1.6
- Fall 2020: Programmable thermostat promotions
- Winter 2020: Business Partnership Smart Series
- Spring 2021: Energy Blitz kits, South District
- Spring 2022: Video featuring successful insulation project in Deerfield Commons
promoted across communications channels
- May 2022: Blower door test demonstration and energy efficiency kits distributed at
Public Works Open House.
- Nov 2022-Jan 2023: Goldie "What R You" campaign launched with ads placed in
utility inserts, Gazette, Little Village, buses, electronic billboards in City Hall and Senior
Center, and on KCCK, KCJJ, and Spotify.
-April 2023: Energy Blitz Kits featured updated booklet, including IRA rebates and
credits checklist, and info on MidAmerican rebates
- Aug. 2023: Worksheet on maximizing energy efficiency IRA benefits to households
included in communitywide mailer
- Jan/Feb. 2024: Collaboration with Midwest Air Source Heat Pump Collaborative to
host a contractor engagement event in April.
- June 2024: "Get Pumped" heat pump information campaign launches with two
videos, a dedicated heat pump page modelled on the solar information page
(icgov.org/heatpump), utility insert and Little Village ad; KGAN runs a story on heat
pumps following campaign launch.
- Sept 2024: "Level Up" household electrification plan and induction cooktop
demonstration held as part of Climate Fest
Key messages: Emphasize buildings - Insulate home,
program thermostat, seal air leaks around doors and
windows
- Consult with CAC as to suggestion to partner with
MidAm/UI to develop reporting tools
- Work with inspection staff to recruit contractors to
instant discount program
Long-Term
Ongoing
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
1
Jun-20
BE-2
Partner with Stakeholders
to Promote Green Building
Construction & Rehab
1.1-1.4
- Spring 2021: Initiated conversations with HBA; contributed funding to aerobarrier
sealing project for Parade of Homes
- Summer 2021: Held Smart Series webinar on green buildings
- Winter 2021: Analyst began research of Green Building Performance Standards
- March 2022: Cold Climate Heat Pump webinar held for area HVAC contractors
- Oct 2022: Public Space One hosts two window rehab workshops as part of their
Climate Action Grant project.
- Oct 2022: NDS staff to attend IAEE conference
- Dec. 2022: Iowa City dedicated $435K of ARPA funding to a Quality
Preapprecticeship Pogram that includes energy efficiency and solar installation
apprenticeships in partnership with the UI Labor Center.
- May 2022: CAO Presentation to Historic Preservation Commission on climate action
goals and potential alignment with rehab strategies
- Sept. 2023: Work begins on student-built LEED Gold project on Ronalds Street, in
collaboration with ICCSD, THF, HBA, and C-Wise
- Dec. 2023-Jan. 2022: Presentation at HBA, Greater IC on HERS ratings and incentives
(See BI-6)
- June 2024: Housing Fellowship/Student Build home receives HERS 46 and Advantage
Custom Homes receives HERS 43; both recoginized at Parade of Homes breakfast;
Climate Action Certificates of Achievement given to all students who participated in
the Housing Fellowship project.
- Nov. 2024: Submitted a Community Change Grant application in collaboration with
The Housing Fellowship to support comprehensive energy efficiency upgrades and
solar installations in affordable housing units and public housing
- Investigate ADU plans in Albequeque
- See BI-6 (permit rebates for enhanced energy standards)
- Continue to explore Building Performance Standards
policies from other communities Long-Term
Ongoing
1May-20BE-3
Encourage the Local
Realtor Community to
Include Energy
Performance in the
Multiple Listing Services
(MLS) Property Inventory
1.1 & 1.6
- Sept. 2022: Five ICAAR Realtors sponosored by Climate Action Office to attend two-
day Green Designation training on energy efficiency features in homes and how to
market energy performance to homebuyers.
- Nov 2022: ICAAR confirms energy performance fields will be included in MLS
Property Inventory starting in 2023; Speaker contracted to offer training to IC realtors
on new MLS fields in coordination with ICAAR
- March 2023: 34 local Realtors participated in training, invited to give follow up
presentations with local agencies.
- February: ICAAR invites Elevate speaker to return and conduct a second Green
Designations training for additional realtors.
April 2024: ICAAR sponsors "Build Your Business with High-Performing Homes"
training for area realtors.
- June 2024: Builders participating in HERS rating program encouraged to connect
with area realtors to use HERS certificates in selling the home.
- Oct 2024: Climate Action staff invited to present on Iowa City's realtor engagement
efforts on Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance webinar.
Completed
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
2Mar-22BE-4
Educate the Community on
Energy Usage for Water
Treatment and Delivery
1.7
-June 2021: Sustainability Newsletter "By the Numbers" focuses on electricity costs
for water treatment, noting 6 out of every $10 spent on electricity by the City is spent
on water treatment
'- Oct. 2022: Tour of water treatment facility offered for Climate Ambassadors
- March 2023: Local Water = Local Food campaign launched
- May 2023: Booth at Waterworks Open House event
- Feb. 2024: Collaborated with Revenue staff on updating water conservation
handouts
- May 2024: Climate Action booth at Wastewater Treatment Plant Open House
Long-Term
Ongoing
2Sep-22BE-5
Incorporate an Education
Component into Future
Solar Installations on a City
Property or Facility
1.4
-Sept. 2022: Staff in discussion with municipal airport about planned solar installation
and opportunities for education componant
- Nov. 2023: Online solar dashboard established for Public Works array to provide
publicly available real time data on system output
- Nov. 2024: Digital signage created for airport lobby with information related to
airport solar array; ribbon cutting included speeches on benefits of solar
- Educational signage along bike/ped trail adjacent to Public
Works Facility featuring rooftop solar array and energy
efficiency features
Long-Term
Ongoing
1Sep-20BI-1
Offer Free Home Energy
Assessments through
Green Iowa AmeriCorps
1.1
- GIA free home Energy Assessments occur annually. During the COVID-19 pandemic,
weatherization kits were distributed instead.
- Fall 2021 In-home Energy Audits resumed; AmeriCorps performing daily audits to
meet demand/help with backlog
- Aug. 2022: 2021-2022 GIA team performed a total of 109 audits (discovering 14 gas
leaks in the process).
- June 2023: Agreement with Johnson County to co-sponsor 2024 team to expand
program reach
- Aug. 2023: '22-'23 GIA team completed 138 audits (75 for vulnerable households,
defined as LI + additional demographic indicator)
- Sept. 2023: '23-'24 GIA team begins training; Staff submit letter of support to the
State advocating for the continuation of the Commission on Volunteer Service.
- Nov. 2023: GIA team resumes audits, program expanded into Johnson County
- Oct. 2024: New GIA team resumes audits; collaboration with Johnson County
extended another year.
- Nov. 2024: New electric Ford Lightning pickup ordered for GIA team.
-
Completed/Long-
Term Ongoing
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
2 Jun-21 BI-2
Enhance Energy Standards
for City Rehabilitation
Projects
1.1
- Energy Efficiency guidelines for City rehab projects have been established, all rehab
participants receive free GIA Energy Audit.
- Created handout detailing energy efficient features of home for residents
- Climate Action and Housing Rehab staff have collaborated to develop improvement
priorities and a process for continued partnership on increasing the energy efficiency
of homes rehabbed through the South District Homeownership Program, including
construction-trade skills classes
- Climate Action collaborating with Housing Rehab staff to install heat pump mini
splits in a SD home and electrical panel upgrades in 14 others to support future
electrical appliance upgrades.
- August 2022: First rehab property in South District Homeownership Program
featuring climate action contributions (solar panels, heat pump HVAC and water
heater, Energy Star kitchen appliances, insulation, and native plantings) sold to an
income-qualified Iowa City resident.
- Feb. 2023: Sale of second SDHP property featuring climate action contributions
- Ongoing: Update GIS map with energy efficiency audits
and City invesments in residential energy efficiency and
other datasets as identified
- Ongoing: Contribute funding when necessary to improve
energy efficiency of rehab projects
- Ongoing: Maintain communication with NDS staff on
upcoming rehab projects
Completed/Long-
Term Ongoing
1Apr-21BI-3
Coordinate Neighborhood
Energy Blitz Events
1.1
- April 2021: Launched first Energy Blitz event around Earth day with about 50
volunteers, coordinated with the SDNA.
- April 2022: Second Energy Blitz held in Lucas Farms; 50 volunteers and 950 homes
reached
- April 2023: Blitz held in Creekside and Morningside-Glendale neighborhoods; 833
households reached. New "mini-blitz" scheduled for June for remaining Morningside-
Glendale homes.
- April 2024: Blitz held in Washington Hills neighborhood; 715 households reached
- June 2024: Planning underway for August mini-blitz in Lake Ridge manufactured
home park in collaboration with Johnson County. - 2024: Reevaluate/update items in kit for future blitz
events
Completed/Long-
Term Ongoing
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
1May-20BI-4
Launch a TIF-funded
climate action incentive
program aimed at reducing
industrial energy
consumption
1.2 & 5.4
- Aug. - Sept. 2020: Council approved URA amendments for Heinz/Sycamore/Scott Six
URA and Downtown/Riverfront Crossings
- Spring 2021: Launched Heinz/SYC/Scott Six Industrial TIF Energy Efficiency Matching
Grant Program. 8 projects were approved and 2 more anticipated.
- Commerical Energy Efficiency Improvement Matching Grant Program launched in
Downtown, Riverfront Crossings, and Northside Marketplace. Deadline extended
through March.
- May 2022: One application approved (window replacement in historic building) and
one application pending in Downtown EE Grant Program.
- Jan 2022: Grant for LED retrofit in Brewery Square building approved by Council.
- March 2023: Grant for HVAC upgrade, windows, and LED fixtures approved for
Bluebird Diner; grant for mechanical and electrical system upgrades for Nuemann
Monson approved. TIF districts expiring in industrial zones in June, concluding the
program for those that area.
- July 2023: Grant for high efficiency cooling tower approved for Graduate hotel
- Sept. 2023: Grant for HVAC upgrade for Hamburg 2 proposed
- Dec 2023/Jan 2024: Planning underway to expand TIF energy efficiency program into
remaining Urban Renewal Areas: Riverside Drive, Towncrest, and Highway 6
Commercial District.
- July 2024: Proposed expansion of TIF incentives for both new and existing
construction brought to Council.
Completed/Long-
Term Ongoing
1 Oct. 2021 BI-5
Develop or Partner with
Local Stakeholders on a
Comprehensive Climate
Action Rehabilitation
Program
1.1 – 1.4
- Conceptual conversations have taken place with community partners. Significant
interest in supporting skills/job training program.
- 2021: See BI-2 partnership with Neighborhood Services and Kirkwood Community
College.
- Reevaluate this project in light of Kirkwood closure, IRA
incentives, and other recent developments; determine if
we should form CAC working group to explore example
programs and equity strategies (i.e. Cedar Rapids
Transform Week)
Not Started
2Feb-23BI-6
Consider a Building Permit
Fee Rebate Program for
Enhanced Energy
Standards
1.3
- April 2022: Climate Action Analyst met with NDS and assist with compiling
requirements, potential costs, and offset
- Feb-May 2023: Continued discussions with NDS to draft plan, including structuring as
a grant rather than fee rebate and pairing it with HERS score for independent
verification.
- July 2023: Discussion with HBA to partner on promoting HERS grant through Parade
of Homes prize
- Jan. 2024: HERS incentive program launches offering $1800 grants to builders who
achieve a score of 52 or better.
- May-July 2024: First HERS ratings submitted to City for incentive program, with
scores ranging from 32-67; award presented at Parade of Homes to Advantage
Custom Homes for score of 42 (see also BE-2).
- Aug-Nov 2024: Seven HERS grants awarded during first 6 months of program,
including two for multifamily dwellings and two for repeat applicants; recognition
planned for City Council meeting on Dec. 10 for best scoring builder
- Summer 2023: Present to proposal to Climate Action
Commission (Intro, Proposal, Challenges, Staff
Recommendations)
- Summer 2023: Launch (perhaps in tandem with BI-5,
comprehensive rehabilitation program)
Completed/Long-
Term Ongoing
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
2 Nov-22 BI-7
Initiate a Net-Zero House
Design Competition
1.3
- Conceptual conversations have included establishing a student and professional
category and possibility of a modified category for retrofit/remodel at lower energy
savings.
- Spring 2022: A possible collaboration with a student design competition/student
build project is underway with NDS, CAO staff and HBA
Consultation with local architects suggests these designs
already exist, competition not tied to construction project
unlikely to accomplish other goals Deferred
2Mar-21BI-8
Complete a Net-Zero
Demonstration
Rehabilitation Project
1.1 & 1.4
- June 2021: Two demonstration projects were showcased in the Remodeler's Parade
and will be sold as part of the South District Homeownership Program. Work included
walls, floor, and attic rehab, new windows and doors, heat pump HVAC and water
heater, and pollinator garden. Solar was installed on both units in August 2021.
- Explore models from other cities with Habitat Net Zero
projects, request suggestions from USDN network Underway
2May-21BI-9
Launch an Electrification
Incentive Program
1.1-1.2 & 1.4
- MidAmerican offers select rebate options
- Iowa City offers energy efficiency loan program for HVAC and insulation projects
- May 2021: Received feedback from Climate Action Commission on Residential EE
Rebate Program
- Oct 2021: Staff developed a supplemental grant program for electirifcation/ee
improvements for households in targeted neighborhoods participating in the existing
NDS rehab loan programs.
- April 2022: Climate Action Grant awarded to Habitat for Humanity to support a
Women's Build Electrification Project and to Prairie Kitchen Store to replace gas water
heater with electric heat pump unit.
- Jan. 2024: Whole Home Energy Retrofit Grant Program launched.
- July 2024: Landlords apply and are selected for Whole Home Energy Retrofit pilot
program participation. - Explore "electric coach" training program as a possible
model for future resident engagement
Long-Term
Ongoing
3Jan-24BI-10
Incentivize energy
enhancements and
building re- and retro-
commissioning for
particpants in the energy
benchmarking program
1.6
- See BR-4
\ Not Started
1 Jun-20 BR-1
Create a More Robust
Energy Code Inspection
Program
1.1 -1.2
- City Council provided budget authority for addition of inspector to enable expanded
workload
- Nov. 2021: New inspectors hired, onboarding underway
- Spring 2022: Building code inspectors have begun training/certification process for
energy code, attending an Iowa Energy Office seminar in March as a department
- NDS staff developing inspection criteria. Climate Analyst
to assist with data analysis needs. Climate Engagement
Specialist to asssit with education and outreach needs for
developer/building community. Long-Term
Ongoing
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
1Aug-20BR-2
Incorporate Stricter Energy
Standards into Tax
Increment Financing
Policies
1.3 – 1.4
- Currently addressed administratively through the development process (standards
not codified). For example, elements of recent development proposals have included
LEED Silver standard build (min. of 8 points from energy category), rooftop solar, low
flow fixtures, and stormwater improvements.
In Development
2Sep-22BR-3
Incorporate Strict Energy
Standards into Height and
Density Bonuses
1.3 – 1.4
- Application of the height density bonus is discretionary and staff have been
instructed to require energy efficiency measures as a category for height bonuses.
These provisions closely mirror the existing TIF standards. Staff will continue to
adminstratively require stricter standards until the Code is amended.
- Sept. 2022: NDS to recommend updating code to include density bonuses and
parking reductions for building to 2022 Energy Code and/or full electrification in new
construction
- Jan. 2023: Council approves recommended code amendments related to density
bonuses; see also BR-6 - Sept. 2022: NDS staff to prepare Code amendment to
Riverfront Crossings District Code for Council consideration
Long-Term
Ongoing
2 Jun-23 BR-4
Initiate Energy
Benchmarking
Requirements
1.6
July 2022: Staff have begun researching energy benchmarking programs, looking at
other communities and conducting a basic analysis of building footprints in Iowa City;
propose establishing a Working Group to provide a recommendation to City Council
on this topic.
- March 2023: Working group formed; Staff tracking HF 605, a benchmarking
preemption bill that was not passed in this legislative session but anticipated to be
revived in the next session (see also BI-10)
- Aug./Sept. 2023: Soft launch of voluntary benchmarking program begins with a
historic church and restaurant facility
- Dec. 2023: Previous TIF awardees contacted to participate in benchmarking; all
future awardees will be required as part of the funding agreement.
Long-Term
Ongoing
2Feb-23BR-5
Develop Climate Action
Requirements for all
Existing and Future Rental
Permits
1.1 & 1.7
Not Started
- NDS to determine criteria with data analysis assistance
from Climate Action Analyst
- Convene CAC working group to identify next steps: Should
this be reconfigured as a recognition program, given
feedback in 2022 from NDS staff of the difficulty in passing
requirements that don't have a clear health & safety
connection? Or should requirements (i.e. A/C) be identified
that have a health and safety connection as a possible way
forward? Not Started
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
1Sep-22BR-6
Assess and update City
zoning codes for solar
readiness/friendliness
1.4
Sept 2022: Staff reviewed current code to identifiy potential barriers to solar adoption
within the City and drafted a memo, presented to the Solar Prioritization Working
Group, of proposed changes and incentives to recommend to City Council for
adoption.
- Nov/Dec 2022: Code amendments brought to Planning and Zoning Board, public
hearing set for Jan. 10 to consider adoption
- Jan. 2023: Code amendments, including development incentives encouraging solar,
adopted by Council
- Nov 2023: SolSmart certification process completed, earning Gold level designation.
Completed
1May-20BCP-1
Advocate for State
Adoption of Advanced
Energy Codes
1.1 – 1.4
- Included in City Council State Legislative Priorities in 2021, 2022 (Note: adoption of
updated codes is administrative and not a policy decision)
-Included in City Council State Legislative Priorities for 2023
- Included in City Council State Legislative Priorities for 2024-2025
Ongoing: staff will continue to advocate each legislative
session
Long-Term
Ongoing
1May-20BCP-2
Advocate for Aggressive
Energy Code Development
and Adoption
1.1 – 1.4
- Eligble staff voted for adoption of new IECC codes in 2020
- City staff began early discussions with HBA on potential for voluntary elevation of
energy efficient building standards
- Sept. 2022: Climate Action sponsored three Building Inspectors to attend IAEE
Energy Summit
- Jan. 2024: HERS incentive program requires buildings to be 20% more efficient than
current code-compliant construction (see BI-6)
- Climate staff to work with HBA to determine how
voluntary local program would work with HERS/ResCheck
standards; compare with information from Inspections on
new energy code inspections (See BR-1)
Long-Term
Ongoing
1Apr-20BP-1
Solar or Battery Storage
Partnership with
MidAmerican
1.5
- April 2020: Proposed project at Waterworks Prarie Park was not approved.
- Oct. 2020: Johnson Clean Energy District granted funds to perform solar feasibility
study to include potential solar sites.
- Solar study completed January 2022; potential follow-up priorities identified in CAC
working group
- Working group reviews potential priorities; memo sent to City Council in Sept. 2022.
- 2024: Conversation initiated with Eastern Iowa Light & Power about solar
installation to power wastewater treatment operations
- Pursue partnership projects as opportunties arise
Long-Term
Ongoing
2Jan-22BP-2
Net-Zero Public Housing
1.1 & 1.7
- July-Sept. 2023: Staff design pilot program offering grants for energy efficiency
upgrades to single-family rental properties tied to landlord agreement to accept
housing choice vouchers to launch in January
- February 2024: Funding support given to Housing Trust Fund student build project
designed to achieve Gold Platinum certification.
- April 2024: CAO staff connected with Habitat for Humanity network with a request
for example projects to benchmark; discuss potential collaboration with Housing
Authority and possible HUD funding that might apply.
- Nov. 2024: See BE-2 item regarding Community Change Grant application - Identify location, funding for project (retrofit or
construction)
- See also BI-2
Long-Term
Ongoing
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
3 Jun-24 BP-3
Municipal Building
Efficiency and
Electrification
1.4 & 1.7
- The City is undertaking a full upgrade from HID to LED lighting on all parking ramp
top decks. 10 have been completed on the Court St. Ramp and and 31 more are
planned for replacement at the Dubuque, Capitol, and Swan ramps in Spring 2022.
- Complete LED lighting retrofit added to projects slated for third floor City Hall
summer 2022
- LED lighting retrofit for Waterworks slated for fall 2022
- February 2023: Airport and fire station HID lights upgraded to LEDs; Facilities
management and climate staff establish quarterly meetings with MidAmerican Energy
and Nexant to review upcoming facilities projects and identify energy efficiency
opportunities.
- Jan. 2023: LED lighting installed at Mercer Park ball field #1 and parking areas; GHG
inventory of municipal facilities and operations initiated.
- April-May 2024: Staff meet with MidAm to discuss lighting retrofit for PD, Firestation
1, and HVAC automation for Senior Center projects
- June 2024: Municipal GHG inventory completed, staff reviewing results
- August 2024: CAO staff included in mechanical system design review for City Park
Pool project
- Nov 2024: Insulation added to City Hall as part of roof rehab project; LED retrofit of
third floor commences in December
- Explore possibility of EV charging at public parks with
dedicated parking lots (Mercer, Terry Trueblood, City Park,
Riverfront Crossings, Willow Creek, Scott Park)
- Use findings from municipal GHG inventory and fleet
transition study to formulate a clean energy plan for
municipal operations
Long-Term
Ongoing
2Sep-22BP-4
Advocate for State
Legislative Changes to
Enable Subscription-Based
Community Solar
1.5
- Included in City Council State Legislative Priorities in 2021, 2022
- Dec 2022: City Council approves inclusion of virtual net metering in legislative
priorities
- Aug - Sept. 2023: Climate Action Staff met with state Energy Office to discuss Solar
for All community solar application and barriers to implementation under current
MidAm tarrifs
- Dec. 2023: Virtual net metering retained as a top legislative priority for Iowa City.
- Dec. 2024: Included in City Council Legislative Priorities for 2024-2025.
- See also BP-1
Long-Term
Ongoing
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
1Aug-20TE-1 Significant Transportation
Education and Outreach
Campaigns
2.3 - Climate Ambassador program includes segments related to transportation.
- Sept. 2021: EV Car Show as part of ClimateFest
- Dec. 2021: Bus wraps for new electric buses designed to include climate action
promotion component
- "Speaking of… Electric Vehicles" webinar hosted March 2022, Electric Bus Bash held
May 6
- May 2023:“Walk and Roll Weekly” campaign launched; Book Bike purchased in
collaboration with the library; booth at Bike to Work Week event at Big Grove.
- Sept. 2023: Climate Fest events include decorated bus stops, live music and
engagement activities at transit hub, and EV car show featuring both the electric bus
and electric cargo "Book Bike"at Farmers Market
- Feb. 2023: "Bus Buddy" video series launched and "March Madness" campaign
planned to follow; first bus buddy engagement training offered to Wonderful
Westside girls group
- May 2024: Iowa City hosts Bike to Work Week breakfast, serving 100+ residents
- Sept 2024: Climate Fest includes a Transit Trivia night and largest attended EV car
show to date (17 different EV models, 1670+ attendees)
- Oct 2024: Fare Free booth in ICDD pop up space for Halloween event to encourage
families to try downtown shuttle while exploring downtown - Prioritize messaging in areas where education can make a
difference, EVs and transit
- Explore "Car Free IC" week to celebrate 1-year anniversary
of Fare Free; analyst to calculate potential emissions
savings to help promote
Long-Term Ongoing
3May-24TE-2 Launch an Eco-Driving
Campaign Alongside
Employers
2.5 - June 2022: MPO transportation planners hosting "Easy on the Gas" Lunch and Learn
highlighting carpool, vanpool, rideshare, express bus, and dial-a-ride options for area
commuters.
- July 2024: Employers identified for planned outreach to encourage use of Fare Free
service by employees
- Coordinate "Car Free IC" week with area employers. "Safe
Routes to Work" campaign?
Underway
2Sep-21TI-1 Incentivize Public Transit
Options
2.2 - July 2021: Implemented Transit Study fare and transfer policy changes.
- Both the ICPL and Recreation Division offer a "ride home" pass valid for ICT
- June 2022: ICPL/Recreation Department offer "ride home" pass again
- Aug. 2023: Launch of Fare Free pilot results in 53% increase in ridership over August
2022; plans for ongoing marketing/engagement to encourage transit usage
- Jan. 2023: City Council considers raising downtown parking fees to support ongoing
Fare Free transit service.
- July 2024: Increased parking rates go into effect; anticipated $1.5M revenue annually
to support fare free service (see also TR-1)
- Sept 2024: First year of Fare Free initiative show sustained ridership growth (450K
additional rides), including increase over previous August
Long-Term Ongoing
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
3Jan-22TI-2 Explore Electric Vehicle
(EV) Incentives Based on
the Readiness Plan
2.5 EV Readiness Plan completed. High Priority Actions:
'- Grant program, prioritizing DC fast chargers
- Amend code to require EV charging as a permitted accessory use, and to include
requirements or incentives (i.e. density bonus) for the installation of charging
infrastructure in new construction or major renovations
- Identify locations for publicly owned EV chargers
- Low-interest EV loan assistance for income-qualified and disadvantaged
communities
- Partnership with dealers to facilitate point-of-sale rebates for Evs
- Develop comprehensive EV resources website for Eastern Iowa audience
- March 2022: Multi-family rebate program proposal to assist with electrical panel
upgrades and equipment installation costs of EV charging units at apartment buildings
launched
- April 2023: Agreement signed with first condo association to help fund
wiring/outlets to support EV charging readiness
- July 2023: Level 1 charging project completed for Peninsula Condo HOA
- High Priority actions included in EV Readiness Plan
- Monitor fed/state funding opportunities
- Dealership engagement related to point-of-sale incentives
in March 2024
- Continute to offer multifamily incentives, look for other
opportunities to advance equity
Long-Term Ongoing
2Apr-23TR-1 Review Parking
Regulations
and Consider Innovative
Ways to Encourage
Alternative Modes of
Travel
2.6 FY23 Recommended Budget includes funding to complete a study on possible Parking
Code changes.
-Spring 2022: City enacted ordinance allowing parking enforcement staff to issue
warnings/ticket vehicles blocking bike lanes
- May 2024: Static bus bike rack installed on Chauncey Swan Ramp; new informational
video in development on how to use the rack
- July 2024: New parking rates paired with refreshed marketing of Fare Free transit
service (see also TI-1)
- Nov 2024: ICDD and city staff collaborate on use of "Hello Lamppost" service for
messaging on parking and transit service downtown
- April 2023: Climate Analyst meet with NDS to understand
building and land use issues and develop analysis report
with recommendations, including equity analysis
Long-Term Ongoing
3 Oct. 2025 TR-2 Require Climate Change
Analysis for new
Subdivisions and Rezonings
2.4 - June 2024: CAO staff representative included in steering committee for
comprehensive land use plan ("comp plan") update to ensure incorporation of climate
change considerations.- Engage planning staff for feedback, identify resources
needed, gauge possibility of preemption
- Use CAC visioning exercise to help identify possible
analysis parameters
- Explore nexus with comp plan update
In Development
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
1May-20TCP-1 Establish an Electric and
Fuel-Efficient Vehicle
Purchasing Policy
2.2 - Sept. 2020: Written policy completed which includes preferences for Evs, describes
process by which vehicle options are to be evaluated
- Spring 2022: Zero Emissions Fleet Transition Plan for future transit purchases,
including EV and hydrogen cell buses, completed
- Summer 2022: Climate Action and Fleet Service staff collaborating on installation of
additional charging stations to support two new EVs added to City fleet.
- Sept. 2022: RFP released to contract for a Zero Emissions Fleet Transition Plan for all
city vehicles
- Dec. 2022: Permanent chargers for electric buses delivered to transit facility,
installation underway.
- May 2023: UI engineering students complete benefit-cost analysis of hydrogen vs
electric "fuel" for city fleet vehicles; firm selected to conduct fleet transition plan.
- Sept. 2023: Initial fleet recommendations presented by ICF to staff; work
commencing for related infrastructure analysis
- Nov. 2023: Iowa City Transit featured on national transit panel as a model of how to
collaborate with utility on fleet electrification efforts.
- June 2024: Fleet Transition Study completed; staff memo and study shared with
Council; staff in conversation with Johnson County about initiation of their study and
potential areas of overlap
- Aug 2024: Level 2 charging station installed to support acquisition of electric
vehicles for police department
Completed
1May-20TCP-2 Track Adherence to City
Idling Policy
2.7 - AVL equipment provides digital idling data. In FY20, 30 City vehicles were equipped
with AVL technology, and another 60 vehicles equipped in FY21.- Climate Action Analyst to work with Fleet Superintendent
to commence regular reporting and analysis of
effectiveness
Long-Term Ongoing
3Feb-24TCP-3 Review Transportation
Subsidies, Work Schedules
and Tele-Work Policies for
City Employees
2.1 - 2021: Following COVID-19 pandemic, conversations on flex/tele-work policy were
initiated
- June 2022: City Manager's Office presented new tele-work and flexible work options
to City employees, to be implemented on a departmental basis.
- Pilot staff engagement program to increase bus ridership
to City Hall with aim to share best strategies with area
employers
Completed
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
1 Jan. 2019 TPP-1 Complete the Transit Study
and Implement
Recommendations to
Bolster Service and
Increase Ridership
2.1 - Oct. 2020: Completed Transit Study presented to City Council
- July - Aug. 2021: New route, fare, stop changes implemented as recommended by
the Study
- Adjustments made to four transit routes (2, 10, 12, 13) based on driver and rider
feedback to better accommodate route transfers
- Aug. 2022: Transit approved to hire 4 additional bus drivers to help cover new routes
and services in support of Transit Study recommendations
- May 2023: Transit system upgrades implemented: buses on Court and Towncrest
routes to begin running 20 minute service; expanded service on N. Dodge route up to
Highlander; 8 routes now have earlier start times.
- Sept. 2023: Procurement authorized for a Bus Rapid Transit Feasibility Study.
- May-July. 2024: Development of ridership objectives and measures in collaboration
with Harvard Bloomburg program
Long-Term Ongoing
2Jul-21 TPP-2 Complete Electric Vehicle
(EV) Readiness Plan and
Implement
Recommendations
2.2 - May 2021: EV Readiness Plan completed
- EV charging rebate for apartment and condo buildings launched in March 2022.
- July 2022: Climate Action staff help secure VW settlement funds to add EVSE to
Chauncey Swan and Dubuque Street parking ramps.
- Dec 2022: Parking staff preparing to implement required EV tax at public charging
stations in 2023 as required by state law.
- Feb 2024: Two dual-port level two chargers added to public ramps at Chauncey
Swan and Dubuque Street.
- July 2024: CAMBUS and Coralville funding request for electric buses included in MPO
Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP); Cedar Rapids submits for EECGB funding for 4
light duty EVs
- Nov 2024: Iowa City Climate Action rep added to steering committee to find new
host organization for Clean Cities Coalition after state terminates contract with the
DOE - See TI-2 for implementation of resulting
recommendations
Long-Term Ongoing
2Aug-21TPP-3 Achieve Gold
Bicycle Friendly
Community
Status and Begin Work
Toward Platinum Status
2.3 - Aug. 2021: City applied for Gold-level Bicycle Friendly Community designation
- Spring 2022: City received Silver-level designation, but has submitted documentation
showing peer cities with lower scores receiving Gold and Platinum designations in
hopes of a revised rating
- May 2024: Application submitted for Gold-level designation
check with Sarah Walz in December - Ongoing progress on Bicycle Master Plan completed
annually
Long-Term Ongoing
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
1 Jun-20 WE-1 Engage the Public to
Compost Organic Waste
3.2 - May 2021: Organic waste curbside collection direct mail postcards.
- Resource Management and Climate Action Staff initiating a partnership with Table to
Table on a a small-scale commerical food waste processing system. Completed food
audit.
-Planning for 2022 Zero-Waste Farmer's Marketing & composting staff underway.
- AmeriCorps to host vermicompoting workshop in April 2022
- May 2022: "Love Food, Fight Waste" education campaign launched to provide
education/resources to reduce residential food waste.
- Sept. 2022: City collaborates with Table to Table for "Just Eat It" film screening at
municpal airport; Food waste processing system installed at Table to Table
- Oct. 2022: "Speaking of... " discussion included focus on composting process in Iowa
City
- May 2023: Home compost bin bulk buy program launched (order doubled after bins
sold out in first hour); "Food Waste Wednesday" drop-off program pilot launched at
Eastside Recycling Center
- Sept. 2023: City secures $4 million EPA grant to improve and expand footprint of
compost facility by 2 additional acres
- Oct. 2023: "Love Food, Fight Waste" campaign moves into second phase, which
includes educational programming at schools and a video series.
- Nov 2024: AmeriCorps team partners with NewPi on mini-event to sell compost
bins
- Expand residential drop-off pilot program
Long-Term Ongoing
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
1Jul-20 WE-2 Education Campaigns for
Neighborhoods to Reduce
Waste/ Consumption at
the Source
3.3 - Course materials created for educators
- Climate Ambassador Program includes waste unit
-"Speaking of… Wishful Recycling" webinar hosted in Feb. 2022
- May 2022: Targeted waste diversion campaign initiated by the City during dorm
move out collected 2,800 pounds of unopened, non-perishable food, 385 pounds of
grooming projects, and 22 pounds of batteries. Afternoon shift of Energy Blitz
collected 140 pounds of batteries and 60 pounds of lightbulbs.
- July 2022: Donation Drive-Thru event diverted 8,246 pounds of material from the
landfill; July "Speaking of..." discussion emphasized reducing consumption as a higher
priority climate action than purchasing "green" products.
- April 2023: "Speaking of... Plastics" discussion at Big Grove focuses on purchasing
practices and reducing consumption as key strategies.
- July 2023: Proposed improvements to Sturgis Ferry Park include new recycling
facilities; second Donation Drive-Thru effort diverts 16,000+ pounds of material from
the landfill
- July 2024: Third Donation Drive-Thru event estimated to have diverted 11,000
pounds of material; Love Food Fight Waste video encourages residents to consider
"food miles" and explore local options to reduce associated GHG emissions
- Oct. 2024: Zoning code amended to allow for stand-alone recycling redemption
centers in commercial and industrial zones in response to changes in state
regulations on grocery store collection sites
- Nov. 2024: Recycling bins relocated from corner of Hwy 1 and Riverside to new
Sturgis Ferry recycling site
- Resource Management staff researching Recycling
Ambassador programs as possible parallel
offering/supplement to Climate Ambassador program
Long-Term Ongoing
3Oct-24WI-1 Incentivize Construction
Waste Diversion
3.4 Jan. 2022: Staff began preliminary conversations on a possible partner program in Jan.
2022.
- Oct. 2022: Resource Management staff attend Build + Reuse Conference on
demolition recycling
- May 2023: Partnership between City and Habitat for Humanity formed to sell bricks
removed during Ped Mall projects with proceeds benefitting future builds
-Resource management staff explore possibility of
construction demo disposal template
- Develop combined transit use/thrift store awareness
campaign for university students
In Development
2Feb-23WR-1 Develop a
Policy/Ordinance
Requiring Specific
Demolition
or Deconstruction
Recycling
Standards/ Procedures
3.4 - Nov. 2023: Concrete assigned a special waste fee, making it more expensive to
landfill.
- June 2024: CAO, Resource Management, and Johnson County staff travel to Chicago
to benchmark a construction and demolition material recycling program and potential
partnership opportunity
- Resource management staff research policy examples and
capacity issues.
In Development
2Jan-21WR-2 Mandating Signage to
Assist
Waste Collection
3.1 - Spring 2021: City received a grant to implement signage at multi-family residential
buildings for uniform labeling of waste/recylcing containers
Completed
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
2 Jun-20 WCP-1 Require All Park/Public
Space Rentals to Recycle
and Use "Green" Event
Best Practices.
3.5 - June 2020: Staff developed agreements for sports organizations renting athletic
facilities.
- June 2022: Parks Department begins using can and bottle bins for waste diversion at
athletic fields - Sept. 2023: Parks, Resource Management, and Climate
staff explore "pop up" waste reduction event at Farmers
Market utilizing durable dishware
Completed/Long-
Term Ongoing
1
May-20
WCP-2
Initiate a Methane
Feasibility Study
3.7-3.8
January 2021: Study completed and presented to Climate Action Commission.
Commission recommended to City Council to not advance the project at this time;
deemed cost prohibitive.
- Summer 2023: Upgrades made to wastewater facility to enable food waste
processing pilot.
- Sept. 2023: Biodigester/Methane Capture project proposed for wastewater facility
- Jan./Feb. 2024: Staff evaluate funding opportunities under the IRA that may support
the methane capture project.
- July 2024: Joint Cedar Rapids/Iowa City CPRG grant application not selected for
funding; staff request a debrief from EPA to strengthen future applications
- Fall 2024: Methane capture equipment purchased to capitalize on IRA funding
opportunity; design work begins to incorporate that equipment into the facility
upgrades at the wastewater treatment plant
- 2023: Climate Action Staff explore potential funding
opportunities under IRA
- Annually: Resource management staff revisit study to
identify new opportunities Completed
1 May-20 AE-1 Develop Climate
Ambassador Team
4.2
- Explore "electric coach" model as possible add on or
revamp of ambassdor training
Completed/Long-
Term Ongoing
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
2 Apr-21 AE-2 Establish "Resilience Hubs" 4.2 - As part of ClimateFest 2021, Resilience Hub outreach and education completed by
A&W Sustainable Planning.
- Climate Resilience Corps. program ready to launch June 2022
- Feb. 2022: A&W Sustainable Planning hosted a climate resilience workshop in
collaboration with the Center for Worker Justice to identify vulnerabilities and
possible resilience measures for the populations they serve.
- Sept. 2022: Solar Prioritization Working Group recommends continued use of
Climate Action Grants to support solar installations at nonprofits to support their
function as resilience hubs; Staff participate in USDN resilience hub training
- Nov. 2022: Discussions initiated with Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County
about collabortating as a resilience hub; Resilience Hub Working Group engaged to
help evaluate sites as potential emergency shelters vs. resilience hubs or resilience
partners.
- March/April 2023: Climate Resilience Corps distributes resilience kits to 216
households; ongoing discussions with NCJC as potential resilience hub pilot site.
- March 2024: MOU established with NCJC as pilot Resilience Hub site; Empowered
Solutions contracted to assist with resilience planning for phase one of resilience hub
efforts.
May 2024: MOU established with Bike Library as second Resilience Hub site,
Empowered Solutions retained to assist with planning efforts; NCJC moves toward
second phase with planned emergency preparedness event (see also AE-5).
- Nov 2024: NCJC completes planning process, moves into funding portion of the
project; Bike Library anticipates completing planning process in January
- Spring/Summer 2023: Develop implementation plan and
launch pilot
- See also SLI-1
Long-Term Ongoing
1 May-21 AE-3 Educate and Coordinate
with Local Agencies on
Health Impacts
4.7 - Staff continue to participate in Invest Health initiatives
- May 2022: Climate Action staff met with Johnson County Public Health to
collaborate on messaging/public education regarding high heat and health impacts.
- July 2022: High heat resilience kits distributed at Lucas Farms History Days event.
- Summer 2023: “Spot the Hot” NIHHIS-CAPA Urban Heat Island Mapping campaign
initiated in collaboration with Cedar Rapids with input/participation by Johnson
County Public Health.
- Sept. 2023: Johnson County Public Health presented on high heat impacts and safety
measures at Climate Fest event discussing Spot the Hot results
- Feb. 2024: In discussion with Johnson County Public Health on possible
collaborations related to respiratory health and climate impacts
Invest Health:
- Invest Health project
Community Health Index:
- February 2023: Engage Johnson County Public Health on
Community Health Index
- Summer 2023: Commence Community Health Index Study
- October 2023: Develop recommended actions with
stakeholder group based on CHI metrics
- 2023 - 2030: Implementation with regular data tracking
- Feb. 2024: In discussion with Johnson County Public
Health on possible collaborations related to respiratory
health and climate impacts
Long-Term Ongoing
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
2 Apr-21 AE-4 Concentrated Education
Campaign for Private
Properties about Native
Plantings, Permeable
Pavement, Rain Gardens,
Soil Health, Rain Barrels
and
Cisterns
4.5 - Spring 2021: Americorps held Rain Barrel Giveaway/Engagement event; City
partnered with the IC Area Business Partnership to hold a 'Green Buildings' Webinar
- Parks & Recreation conduct outreach and education activities in conjunction with
community gardens
- "Your Best Lawn" video campaign in April 2022 resulted in double the number of
applications to participate in the Soil Quality Restoration (SQR) program for 2022
- May 2022: Climate Action Grant awarded to M68 Apartments to replace turf grass
with native plantings.
- April/May 2023: Parks staff host first Native Plant Symposium in April; AmeriCorps
team launches “Native Neighborhoods” program; NDS staff launch “Lawn Love”
program and related videos to promote native landscapes at residences.
- Sept. 2023: My Garden of a Thousand Bees screened as part of Climate Fest,
highlighting native plants and pollinator health, and related bee craft workshop held
at Robert A. Lee
- Explore collaboration with engineering on a Goldie
campaign focused on stormwater management
- Hold stormwater management education activity or
demonstration projects
- Partnership with library on PedMall native plantings and
related educational signage
Long-Term Ongoing
2 Mar-23 AE-5 Coordinated Efforts with
Local Emergency Agencies
and Utility Agencies
Providing Critical
Infrastructure
4.3-4.4 - City staff participate in regular Local Emergency Planning Committee
- As part of 2021 Climate Action Grant, the Multicultural Development Center
completed an Extreme Weather Preparedness Event targeting underserved youth,
including co-benefits of STEM education on assembling Raspberry Pi computers the
youth were able to keep for their homes.
- May 2022: Johnson County Public Health Emergency Manager providing supplies for
inclusing in Teen Resilience Corps kits.
- Jan. 2024: Johnson County EMA engaged with Resilience Hub project and training
(see also AE-2)
- July 2024: Partnership with Johnson County EMA, HACAP, Johnson County Public
Health, the Community Foundation, United Way, the UI Disaster PrepWise Team, and
the Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County to host an emergency preparedness
event as part of Welcoming Week as part of Resilience Hub efforts (see also AE-2)
- Nov 2024 : Climate Action Staff join the Community Organizations Active in
Disasters (COAD) coordinating group for Johnson County EMA
- Summer 2023: Engage with police and fire departments
to research opportunities with Smart 911 and Special
Needs Emergency Registry
- See BP-1 for utility resilience recommendations from Solar
Feasibility Study
Long-Term Ongoing
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
1 Jul-20 AI-1 Partner with Project Green
on a Tree Planting
Partnership; Incentives for
Private Tree Planting
4.6 - October 2020: Root for Trees tree voucher/planting program launched. 520
vouchers were distributed, 333 redeemeed
- Annually Parks staff host opportunities for individuals and organizations to hold tree
planting events, often around Earth Day
- The City completed approximately 1,200 new tree plantings in 2021 through both
City plantings and partnership planting events with organizations.
- 2021-2022: Second year of Root for Trees program 492 vouchers redeemed
- 2022-2023: Third year of Root for Trees program launches, now managed by Climate
Action staff; 376 vouchers redeemed.
- Sept. 2023: Fourth year of Root for Trees program launches; 293 voucher
applications received in first two weeks
- Nov. 2023: Forestry staff partner with Project Green to secure $200K REAP grant for
native tree/prairie plantings and trail improvements.
- Dec. 2023: 1000th tree planted through Root for Trees program.
- April 2024: Forestry staff partners with Project Green to use Heritage Tree funds to
rebuild tree canopy in Oakland Cemetery.
- May 2024: Fourth year of Root for Trees concludes with 314 vouchers redeemed.
- Aug 2024: Fifth year of Root for Trees launched; 371 vouchers received from Aug-
Dec
- Forestry staff in conversation with Project Green to use
Heritage Tree funds for a 5-year plan to reestablish oak
savannah in Oakland Cemetary
Long-Term Ongoing
1 Sep-22 AR-1 Street Tree Ordinance 4.6 - NDS Staff began drafting an ordinance; currently implemented administratively
through zoning and development processes
See BR-2, BR-3; implement as comprehensive code update
In Development
2 Sep-22 AR-2 Increase Tree Planting
Requirements in
Landscaping, Parking Lots,
and Upon Renewal
of Rental Permits
4.6 Not Started
- NDS staff incorporate into comprehensive plan update
process
- See BR-3, BR-5, AR-1; implement as comprehensive code
update Not Started
2 Oct-21 ACP-1 Develop Review Standards
for New City Facility
Construction and Major
Rehabilitation that
Accounts for Climate
Adaptation Principals
5.7 -2020: Environmentally Responsible Management Certification earned for Iowa City
Parks & Rec Facilities. Iowa City currently holds the record for the most
fields/complexes certified.
- October 2021: Climate, Public Works, and Facilities convene meeting and research
similar policies in other cities; Analyst to compile list of scheduled facility projects and
identified facility needs through master plan, review existing design standards, and
dig into Energy Manager facility energy usage data to identify high-priority needs
Long-Term Ongoing
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
1 Jun-20 AP-1 Flood Mitigation and
Stormwater Management
Programs/Projects;
Buyouts
4.5 - Annually: Creek clean up volunteer events coordinatd through City Stormwater
Specialist
- Oct. 2021: City staff participated in the 2021 Iowa River Clean-Up which removed a
total of 8,800 pounds of waste from ther river.
- Nov. 2022: Streambank stabilization improvements completed for Willow Creek.
- Feb. 2023: Park View Terrace property in 100-year floodplain purchased for
demolition; anticipate using local funds rather than federal dollars for buyouts going
forward.
- Oct 2024: Dubuque Street renovation completed, pairing storm sewer
improvements with new curbside native plantings for stormwater mgmt
- The City continues to pursue flood buyout properties as
opportunities arise.
- Stormwater projects included in CIP;
https://www.icgov.org/government/departments-and-
divisions/public-works/engineering/construction-projects
- City stormwater grant program ongoing
Long-Term Ongoing
1 May-20 AP-2 Continue Implementation
of the Natural Areas
Management Plan
4.5-4.6 - Currently 100+ acres of prairie establishment in their first/second years of life;
Additional acres of prairie added annually; include educational & outreach
components
- Staff initiated conversations with UI about oppprtunities to expand support for
natural areas and onsite education
- Prairie Establisment FAQ available on City Parks website
- 2022: Native planting improvements in Terry Trueblood, Peninsula Park, and Kickers
- Summer 2023: Improvements to forest and savanna habitats in Hickory Hill; native
seed drill purchased to aid in future prairie plantings; prescribed burns in establish
prairie areas followed by good growth response.
- Summer 2024: Prescribed burn plans in development for all prairie areas; staff
collaborating with USFWS on Sand Hill Prairie Park management and with Drake and
Johnson County Conservation on species inventory
Long-Term Ongoing
1 Sep-20 AP-3 Expand Public Tree
Planting
4.6 - Sept. 2020: Tree Canopy Memo provided to City Council, demonstrating need for
incremental tree canopy replacement activities.
- Spring 2021: Parks and Forestry 2021 plantings approved by Council; goal to plant
1,000 trees, double the annual allottment of trees through partnerships and
coordinated events, and add additional Forestry staff to care for the new plantings.
2021 Tree Planting memo sent to Council.
- 2022: 750 trees lanted in spring/summer 2022, predominantly in South District
Neighborhood
- Summer/Fall 2023: Street tree planting along Nevada Ave (south of Lakeside), Aster
Ave, Whispering Prairie Ave, Blue Stem Ct, Coneflower Ct, Indigo Dr, Indigo Ct, Thistle
Ct, Whispering Meadow Dr, Primrose Ct, Blazing Star Dr, Pinto Ln, Friendship St. (may
carry into 2024)
- June 2024: iTree canopy coverage assessment completed showing 36% canopy
coverage in urban area
- Fall 2024: 500 street trees planted along Mormon Trek Blvd, South of 6 SSMID
boundary, and targeted infill along additional streets; AmeriCorps team assists with
tree planting at city-owned rental properties; 875+ trees total planted in public
areas in 2024.Iowa City Parks & Forestry will continue to conduct annual
tree plantings and update City Council on those efforts
Long-Term Ongoing
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
2 May-20 AP-4 Equity Review of
Neighborhood and
Population Outreach;
Develop Outreach Plan for
Populations Highly
Impacted by Climate
Change
4.1-4.2 - May 2021: UI Graduate intern developed equity toolkit, Commission recommended
staff use the toolkit in the development of projects
- Summer 2021: Green Iowa Americorps member completed update to USDN/Iowa
City Climate Action Equity Report
- June 2023: Neighborhood equity map revised to utilize Justice 40 criteria in
alignment with federal funding considerations; most recent Root for Trees vouchers
mapped.
- Aug-Dec. 2023: Equitable outreach toolkit in development in collaboration with
University of Iowa researcher as part of CPRG planning process.
- June 2024: CPRG equitable outreach toolkit finished, key provisions included in RFP
for regional Comprehensive Climate Action Plan contract
- Climate Action Analyst will continue work on equity
mapping tool
- Climate staff in conversation with NDS about existing tree
removal program for EAB impacts on under-resourced
populations
- Climate Analyst presents updated equity map of current
programs to CAC (and continues to provide annual updates
going forward)
- See AE-3 for focused public health equity outreach
opportunities
Long-Term Ongoing
1Sep-20SLE-1 Host Sustainability Forum
and Events
5.5 - Sept. 2020, 2021, 2022: ClimateFest)
- Feb. 2021: Sponsored virtual speaker, Climate Action and Communities of Color
- April 2021: Launched Project 51, public education campaign
- April 2022, 2023: AmeriCorps host Earth Expo
- Aug. 2022: Small business focus group held to discuss sustainability priorities,
resources, and alignment of funding opportunities.
- Feb. 2023: Virtual discussion on "Accelerating Black Leadership and Sustainability"
scheduled for Feb. 9 in collaboration with Office of Human Rights.
- April 2023: "Speaking of... Live!" held in collaboration with Big Grove (see WE-2)
- Sept. 2023: "Speaking of... Live!" held at Green House focused on resources for
renters and tabling event for area conservation groups held at Big Grove during
Climate Fest
- March-April 2024: AmeriCorps hosts Sustainability in Local Government and Earth
Expo events.
- Sept 2024: CoCoRAHS precipitation data collection training and "Nonprofit Nerd
Out" with local sustainability organizations held as part of Climate Fest
- Annually: ClimateFest
- The Climate Action Engagement Specialist will lead other
outreach, education, and engagement events in
conjunction with a wide variety of climate action efforts as
opportunities arise
Completed/Long-
Term Ongoing
1 Jun-20 SLE-2 Launch a Green Business
Program: "Climate Action
at Work"
5.5 -Summer 2020: Pilot Climate Action at Work Awards Program launched, with five
businesses recognized.
- 2021: Smart Series webinars for businesses in partnership with the Iowa City Area
Business Partnership.
- Sept. 2021: Awarded five businesses through 2021 Climate Action at Work Awards
Program.
- April 2022: Climate Action Staff participated in One Sustainable Iowa Conference
panel highlighting Climate Action at Work awardees in April 2022.
- Engage economic development coordinator in review of
program and make recommendations for program
updates/refresh
Completed
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
1 Jun-20 SLPP-2 Develop a Climate Action
Strategic Communications
Plan
5.5 -Feb. 2021- Jan. 2022: Staff collaborate with Cause Impacts to review existing
marketing practices and develop new marketing approaches
- May 2022: Soft launch of Goldie mascot at May Public Works Open House, updated
logo finalized in May; Climate Action and Communications staff performed a
comprehensive review of communications assets to identify/prioritize those to be
updated.
- Dec. 2022: 650% increase in insulation program applications following launch of
"What R You" Goldie campaign; A/B testing on ICgov.org/Insulate page shows 60%
more engagement with Goldie than conventional "live action" video.
- Sept. 2023: Community-wide mailer sent to every Iowa City household highlighting
Climate Fest events and other Climate Action programs/resources
- Jan.-Feb. 2024: Planning underway for "Get Pumped" campaign for June/July
deployement and refresh of What R You campaign for Sept/Oct deployment.
- April 2024: CAO staff present at Growing Sustainable Communities Conference on
communications/marketing plan successes
- May-August 2024: "Get Pumped" and "Keep Cool" campaigns underway
- Sept 2024: Scale of Hope screened at Climate Fest featuring a prominent climate
communications specialist discussing effective engagement
- Ongoing 12-month marketing plans developed in
collaboration with communications staff top align with
fiscal years
Completed
2 Nov-22 SLE-3 Local Procurement
Campaign -
Buy-in from Local
Commercial
Groups
5.3 - Initial conversations with UI, Business Partnership, and ICDD
- Spring 2022: Resource management staff working on Beyond PlastIC initiative to
work with local restaurants on procuring alternatives to plastic to-go containers
- March 2024: Staff review local preference provision in City purchasing policy in
comparison with peer cities and discuss potential update related to small business
provision
- Explore possible Goldie campaign connected to bringing
your own to-go containers when dining out
- Engage economic development coordinator in discussion
of future direction/recommendations for these efforts
- Review current Local Procurement incentives in City
purchasing policies and explore adding a similar small
business incentive.
In Development
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
1 Nov-20 SLI-1 Expand Community
Climate Grants
5.4 - 2022 updates to grant program: Specified non-profit and business categories at
higher denominations ($10,000).
- 2021: Establish parallel Youth Mini Grants (2022 transition to open/ongoing
applicatioin window for YMG)
- August 2022: Climate Innovation Grant program established to help fund emerging
technologies.
- March 2023: To encourage wider participation, limit established of two awards
within any three year period to any one organization; 17 applications received.
- May 2023: Awards given to Bike Library (HVAC), Catholic Worker House (water
heater), CommUnity (refrigeration unit), Deerfield Commons (insulation), Dubuque St.
Apts. (insulation), Fin & Feather (solar), The Green House (mechanical
composter/reusable to-do containers), IC Compassion (community gardening), JC
Railroad Historical Center (HVAC), Summit Apartments (insulation), Youth Mini-Grant
(peer-to-peer education program).
- Feb.-March 2024: Updates made to Climate Action Grant program; application portal
opened March 1 with new information session for interested applicants planned for
March 18.
- May 2024: Awards given to Antelope Lending Library (reusable tote bags), Bur Oak
(native shrub program), Habitat for Humanity (home air sealing), NCJC (garden beds),
Nomadic Foods (reusable food containers) Oakknoll (compost containers), Our
Redeemer (LED retrofit), Plated Table (native plantings), Trinity (window replacement)
- Oct 2024: Collaboration underway with Resource Management staff to establish a
small grant to launch in 2025 to support adoption of resuable glassware, tableware,
and to-go containers for organizations and businesses
- 2023: Monitor PIN grant overhaul and based on that
explore possibility of bi-annual or open application window
Completed/Long-
Term Ongoing
3Dec-23SLI-2 Incentives for the Public to
Create and Maintain Local
Food Production and
Community Gardens
5.4 - Iowa City Parks & Rec annually offers community garden plot program
- 2022: Climate Action Grants given to Horace Mann Elementary School, Field to
Family, and Kirkwood Community College in support of increasing access to
community gardens/local foods.
'- April 2022: Staff attended Johnson County Local Foods Roundtable to identify future
needs/opportunities
- June 2023: Urban chicken regulations revised to do away with neighbor consent
requirements, increase the number of allowable chickens to 6 hens, and allow for
chickens at multifamily dwellings
- May 2024: Educational garden bed project funded for NCJC Broadway location (see
SLI-1)
-2023: Connect with Johnson County Food Policy Council to
learn more about commercial kitchen initiative at JC Porr
Farm; explore commercial kitchen or other food production
support as possible offering through resilience hub
program
Long-Term Ongoing
Phase Initiate Code Action
Plan
Alignment Milestones Potential Next Steps Status
1Sep-20SLP-1 Community Garden
Expansion/ Additions
5.1-5.2 - UI Student completed community garden assessment report
- Chadek Green community garden improvements include paved parking lot,
pathways, raised beds, water spigots and restrooms adjacent to the parking lot.
- Dec. 2022: Partnership with Kirkwood Community College to install "seed library"
boxes at all community gardens for 2023.
- April 2023: Community Garden program begins offering weekly tips and garden
information via email to participants throughout the gardening season.
- Oct 2024: Survey sent to Chadek Green Community Garden participants to gauge
interest in piloting a no-till maintenance approach
- Parks and Rec staff review community garden plot rentals
annually and weigh current and future demand.
- Climate Action Analyst to add plot rentals to Climate
Action equity mapping tool to analyze gaps in
coverage/access
- Future: Explore opportunities to expand gardens by the
private sector or other community partners installed for
community use.
- Public input survey conducted in Dec. 2021. Planning
underway for improvements to Chadek Green.
Long-Term Ongoing
2Jul-22 SLCP-1 Develop a Green
Procurement
Policy
5.3 - 2021:City Purchasing division went through recent re-organization and needs a little
time before they're able to support the development of such a policy. In the
meantime, there may be opportunties internally to start gathering existing
procedures and modifying, with local and sustainable acquisition principles in mind.
- August 2022: City Purchasing division working with office supply vendor accounts to
apply a sustainability filter to staff searches for products that will place
green/sustainable products at the top of returns.
- May 2024: CAO staff collaborate with procurement staff to host Iowa Public
Procurement meeting featuring speakers from national organizations and peer cities
to discuss sustainable purchasing practices
- Staff conduct research into example policies and analysis
of existing City policies, https://www.ecocenter.org/our-
work/purchasing-safer-cities/sustainable-procurement-
roadmap/step-2-creating-environmentally; convene
meeting with purchasing
- Purchasing to author policy updates
- Solicit feedback from staff climate ambassadors on
practices in each department/division to review and build
upon
- Summer 2024: Adopt Green Purchase Policy
Long-Term Ongoing
2Jan-22SLCP-2 Develop a City
Sustainability
Operations Guide and
Make
Available to the
Public/Organizations
Throughout Iowa City
5.7 - Feb-March 2023: Climate ambassador training offered to staff to increase cross-
departmental collaborations and identify opportunities to increase green practices
across city operations
'- Jan-Feb. 2024: Second staff ambassador training held
- May-August 2024: Staff collaborate across departments to develop preferred
practices for City event food purchases aligned with climate goals
- Solicity suggestions from the CAC as to vision for
community portion of this action
- Engage with facility manager professional organization to
identify information channels with which to collaborate or
amplify information sharing (similar to realtor outreach)
Long-Term Ongoing