HomeMy WebLinkAbout6-2-25 Climate Action Commission Agenda PacketIowa City Climate Action Commission Agenda
Monday, June 2, 2025, 4:00 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 May 5, 2025 minutes
4. Announcements/Reports
a. Action items from last meeting
b. Commission members asked to continue thinking about prioritization scoring.
c. Events
i. Cooling Stations at Party in the Parks
1. June 12, 6:30-8 p.m. Happy Hollow Park
2. June 26, 6:30-8 p.m. Scott Park
ii. Other events in the community (Commissioners)
iii. Continued Comprehensive Plan Public Visioning Workshops for Iowa City
1. June 2, 5:30-7 p.m., Dream City
2. June 10, 5:30-7 p.m., NCJC – Pheasant Ridge
3. June 16, 5:30-7 p.m., Iowa City Public Library
4. June 30, 5:30-7 p.m., St. Patrick Catholic Church
5. July 8, 5:30-7 p.m., Ferguson Building
5. New Business
a. Comprehensive Plan Presentation (Anne Russett, City of Iowa City and Christopher
Shires, Confluence) – update and discussion
b. Air Quality Sampling Report – informational update
6. Old Business
a. Continued review of Accelerating Iowa City’s Climate Actions Plan action items relating
to buildings and discussion of prioritization scoring
7. 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.
8. Recap
a. Confirmation of next meeting time and location
i. Monday, August 4, 2025 4-5:30 p.m., Emma J. Harvat Hall
b. Actionable items for commission and staff
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 sgardner@iowa-city.org. Early requests
are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.
MINUTES PRELIMINARY
IOWA CITY CLIMATE ACTION COMMISSION
May 5 – 4:00 PM – FORMAL MEETING
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Michael Anderson, Emma Bork, Jamie Gade, Zach Haralson, Nadja
Krylov, Brinda Shetty, Michelle Sillman, Angie Smith, Robert Traer
MEMBERS ABSENT: Ben Grimm, Wim Murray
STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Gardner, Diane Platte
OTHERS PRESENT: None
CALL TO ORDER:
Gade called the meeting to order at 4:00.
APPROVAL OF APRIL 7, 2025 MINUTES:
Krylov moved to approve the minutes, Anderson seconded, and the motion carried.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Action items from last meeting (staff):
• Commissioners were asked to continue thinking about prioritization scoring.
Events:
• Bike to Work Week Breakfast (May 14, 7-9 a.m. Chauncy Swan ramp)
• Public Works Day Open House (May 18, 1-3 p.m. Landfill & Recycling Center)
• Other events in the community (commissioners)
Information sharing from April 21 compost facility tour:
• Haralson shared details from the facility tour, which included touring the open face of the
landfill, the compost operations, the recycling shed, and information about household
hazardous material and electronic recycling, as well as the “Swap Shop” where usable
household cleaners and paints dropped off for disposal are diverted for residents to pick up and
use for free. Sillman shared additional thoughts about the discussion of a “virtual pipeline” that
could potentially transport captured methane to an injection site by truck rather than pipeline
to the gras grid. Gardner offered that Commission members who were interested in learning
more but unable to take the tour could visit the upcoming Public Works Open House at the
facility and suggested a tour of the wastewater treatment facility could be arranged next year to
see the methane capture system under construction.
Update on Comprehensive Plan efforts for Iowa City
Climate Action Commission
May 2025
Page 2 of 4
2
• Community Listening Sessions scheduled for 5:30-7 p.m. May 12 (Iowa City Public Library), May
20 (NCJC Pheasant Ridge), and May 28 (St. Patrick Church)
• Gardner shared that the consultants working on the Comprehensive Plan would be present at
the June 2 Climate Action Commission meeting to share updates and solicit feedback from
Commission members. She asked that Commission members share the dates for the upcoming
listening sessions with residents in their personal networks and encourage attendance to help
solicit public input.
NEW BUSINESS: none
OLD BUSINESS:
Prioritization scoring of Accelerating Iowa City’s Climate Actions Plan relating to buildings.
• Gardner provided a summary of efforts to date about actions listed in the “Buildings –
Incentives” section of the Acceleration Iowa City’s Climate Actions Plan beginning with BI-2
(Enhance energy standards for city rehabilitation projects), followed by BI-3 (Coordinate
Neighborhood Energy Blitz events), BI-4 (Launch a TIF-funded climate action incentive program
aimed at reducing industrial energy consumption), BI-5 (Develop or partner with local
stakeholders on a comprehensive climate action rehabilitation program), BI-6 (Consider a
building permit fee rebate program for enhanced energy standards), BI-7 (Initiate a net-zero
house design competition), BI-8 (Complete a net-zero demonstration rehabilitation project), BI-9
(Launch an electrification incentive program), and BI-10 (Incentivize energy enhancements and
building re- and retro-commissioning for participants in the energy benchmarking program). The
summary followed points detailed in the report included in the April agenda packet.
o Gardner explained TIF funding utilizes increases in property tax revenue generated
through the growth of property value within a designated geographic area known as an
“Urban Renewal Area” to be reinvested within that same Urban Renewal Area following
criteria set in the city’s TIF policies. She shared that in an update in 2024 to the City’s TIF
policies, climate action elements related to energy efficiency and green building
standards were incorporated to apply to all urban renewal areas.
o Commission members were again invited to score each item with either a 1, indicating
lower priority action items to monitor for future opportunities, a 3, indicating items for
which to maintain the current level of effort, or a 5, indicating high priority items to
continue to grow.
• Gardner provided a summary of efforts to date in the “Buildings – Regulations” section, which
includes BR-1 (Create a more robust energy code inspection program), BR-2 (Incorporate stricter
energy standards into TIF financing policies), BR-3 (Incorporate strict energy standards into
height and density bonuses), BR-4 (Initiate energy benchmarking requirements), BR-5 (Develop
climate action requirements for all existing and future rental permits), and BR-6 (Assess and
update city zoning codes for solar readiness/friendliness) and again invited commissioners to
ask questions and offer thoughts.
Climate Action Commission
May 2025
Page 3 of 4
3
o For BR-5, the climate action requirements for future rental permits might include a
health & safety connection in the form of requiring air conditioning as an adaptation
measure for the increasing high heat days.
Traer noted that requiring air conditioners without specifying quality level, i.e.
heat pumps, might be not climate-friendly, not energy-efficient
Haralson asked if there is an app whereby tenants could self-report the energy-
efficiency of their dwelling. Gardner affirmed that there used to be such an app,
but it no longer exists due to low uptake.
o Commissioners scored each of the 6 items in the Buildings – Regulation section using
the same 1-3-5 scale
• Gardner asked commissioners to leave their scoresheets at their place to be collected. At the
next meeting, the scoresheets will be given back for continued work on the project, scoring
items under the remaining two sections, “Buildings – City Policy” and “Buildings – Public
Projects.”
PUBLIC COMMENT OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
• None
RECAP:
Confirmation of next meeting time and location:
• Monday, June 2, 4-5:30 p.m. Emma J. Harvat Hall
Actionable items for commission and staff:
• Commissioners are asked to continue thinking about prioritization scoring.
ADJOURNMENT:
Shetty moved to adjourn, Haralson seconded, and the motion carried. Meeting adjourned 5:29.
Climate Action Commission
May 2025
Page 4 of 4
4
CLIMATE ACTION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2024-25
NAME
TERM EXP.
4/
1
/
2
4
5/
6
/
2
4
6/
3
/
2
4
8/
5
/
2
4
9/
8
/
2
4
10
/
7
/
2
4
11
/
1
8
/
2
4
12
/
2
/
2
4
1/
6
/
2
5
2/
3
/
2
5
3/
3
/
2
5
4/
7
/
2
5
Anderson E
Rep
KEY: X = Present
0 = Absent
0/E = Absent/Excused
NM= No Meeting
* No longer on Commission
Date: May 21, 2025
To: Climate Action Commission
From: Sarah Gardner, Climate Action Coordinator
Re: Air Quality Testing in Iowa City
The purpose of this memo is to provide an update on actions taken by City, state, and federal
staff in response to concerns brought in 2024 to the Climate Action Commission and City
Council by residents regarding odors believed to originate from industrial operations in Iowa
City. Although addressing air quality and environmental compliance is outside the core
responsibilities of the Commission, this information is being provided for the purposes of
transparency and information sharing.
Background
In response to the concerns raised, and at the request of City management, the Iowa
Department of Natural Resources (DNR) engaged the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) to investigate and identify any potential sources the reported odors.
The EPA deployed a mobile air monitoring system to conduct sampling across the city’s
industrial zones and neighboring residential areas. This system, mounted to a vehicle, included
air sample containers for laboratory analysis, meteorological equipment to detect wind patterns,
and an infrared camera capable of detecting volatile organic compounds, including methane.
To ensure comprehensive results, samples were collected at various times of day over several
days. While City management was informed that testing would take place, specific dates and
times were kept confidential by the EPA to ensure the integrity of blind sampling.
Analysis
Findings from the combined data—including laboratory analysis and thermal imaging—pointed
to a small amount of toluene emissions from the Loparex facility as the most likely source of the
reported odors. Importantly, the levels of toluene detected were measured in parts per billion,
over one hundred times lower than the lowest threshold known to impact human health (20
parts per million).
Toluene is known for its distinct odor and is easily detectable by humans even in extremely low
concentrations. Although it has a similar smell to acetone, toluene is non-flammable and
requires exposure to much higher concentrations than acetone to pose health risks.
Trace amounts of benzene (≤3 parts per billion) were also identified during testing. These levels
are similarly more than one hundred times below the minimum risk level for human exposure.
The benzene detected is likely attributable to multiple environmental and industrial sources and
was not traced to a single origin.
Outcomes
After obtaining the results of the air sample testing, the EPA conducted an unannounced site
inspection at the Loparex facility in order to perform due diligence. This inspection included a
review of manufacturing and emissions control equipment, a compliance records audit, and
May 21, 2025
Page 2
additional optical gas imaging. The facility was determined to be in full compliance with all
current environmental regulations.
The findings from this investigation were shared with City staff, who followed up with the EPA to
discuss the air quality testing results. Staff also met separately with the Loparex facility manager
and environmental health specialist, who expressed a commitment to open communication. No
further action was recommended by the EPA.
More detailed information about these efforts and findings can be found in the attached reports
shared by the EPA with the City of Iowa City.
ACCELERATING IOWA CITY’S CLIMATE ACTIONS PLAN, PROGRESS 2020-TO DATE
BUILDINGS
EDUCATION ACTION ITEMS
BE -1: PROMOTE ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND PERFORMANCE TIPS TO THE PUBLIC
STATUS: LONG TERM/ONGOING
20200F
1: Launched programmable thermostat promotion. Launched “Smart Series” webinars in
partnership with the Iowa City Area Business Partnership (ICABP) featuring green initiatives by local
businesses.
2021: Conducted first Neighborhood Energy Blitz in the South District, delivering energy saving kits
and tips to 1200 households.
2022: Developed video featuring Deerfield Commons insulation project. Set up demonstration of
blower door test for the public at Public Works Open House and distributed energy saving kits at
the event. Launched Goldie "What R You" campaign with ads placed in utility inserts, print
publications, electronic billboards in City Hall and Senior Center, and on local radio stations.
2023: Included worksheet on maximizing household energy efficiency IRA benefits in
communitywide mailer and in Energy Blitz Kits. Energy efficiency upgrades incentivized by the IRA
highlighted at community presentations throughout the year.
2024: Collaborated with Midwest Air Source Heat Pump Collaborative to host a contractor
engagement event in April. Launched "Get Pumped" heat pump information campaign. Hosted
"Level Up Your Climate Action Plan" household electrification event and induction cooktop
demonstration held as part of Climate Fest.
BE -2: PARTNER WITH STAKEHOLDERS TO PROMOTE GREEN BUILDING
CONSTRUCTION AND REHAB ILITATION
STATUS: LONG TERM/ONGOING
2021: Initiated conversations with Homebuilders Association (HBA) about potential partnerships.
Partnered with HBA and a local builder in the Parade of Homes on an AeroBarrier sealing
demonstration project and on a Student Build rehab project for the Remodelers Parade. Held
Smart Series webinar on green buildings in partnership with ICABP. Began research into Green
Building Performance Standards.
1 Throughout this report, “2020” is used to indicate new efforts initiated in 2020, while “2020
baseline” indicates relevant ongoing efforts that were continued into 2020.
2022: Held Cold Climate Heat Pump webinar for area HVAC contractors. Funded two window
rehab workshops in partnership with Public Space One. Sponsored three city building inspectors to
attend Iowa Energy Efficiency conference in Des Moines. 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. Climate Action staff presented to Historic
Preservation Commission on climate action goals and potential alignment with rehab strategies.
2023: Student-Built Home program launch in collaboration with Iowa City Community School
District (ICCSD), The Housing Fellowship (THF), HBA, and C-Wise with an emphasis on energy
efficient building practices. Climate Action staff presentation on HERS ratings program and
incentives to HBA, Greater IC.
2024: Launched Home Energy Rating System (HERS) incentive program. Funded HERS ratings for
Iowa City Parade of Homes entries and recognized best scoring home with an award at the Builders
Breakfast. First Student-Built Home completed and certified as LEED Gold. Submitted 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.
2025: Second Student-Built Home project underway. Continue HERS incentive program and
partnership to promote it through the Parade of Homes.
BE -3: ENCOURAGE THE LOCAL REALTOR COMMUNITY TO INCLUDE ENERGY
PERFORMANCE IN THE MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICES (MLS) PROPERTY INVENTORY
STATUS: COMPLETED
2022: Sponsored five Iowa City Area Association of Realtors (ICAAR) members to attend two-day
Green Designation training on energy efficiency features in homes and how to market energy
performance to homebuyers. ICAAR confirms energy performance fields will be included in MLS
Property Inventory starting in 2023.
2023: Contracted with Elevate Energy to provide Green Designations training to all interested
realtors through ICAAR. Climate Action staff give follow up presentations with local real estate
agencies.
2024: ICAAR contracted with Elevate trainer to return and conduct a "Build Your Business with
High-Performing Homes" workshop for area realtors. Climate Action staff encourage builders
participating in HERS rating program to connect with trained area realtors to use HERS certificates
in selling the home. Climate Action staff present on Iowa City's realtor engagement efforts on
Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance webinar.
2025: Collaborating with ICAAR to host Lunch and Learn for area realtors on HERS ratings process
and incentive program.
BE -4: EDUCATE THE COMMUNITY ON ENERGY USAGE FOR WATER TREATMENT AND
DELIVERY
STATUS: LONG -TERM/ONGOING
2021: Focused on electricity costs for water treatment in Climate Action newsletter “By the
Numbers”, highlighting that $6 out of every $10 spent on electricity by the City is spent on water
treatment.
2022: Offered tour of water treatment facility for Climate Ambassadors.
2023: Launched Local Water = Local Food campaign. Conducted outreach through Climate Action
booth at Waterworks Open House.
2024: Updated water conservation handouts in collaboration with Revenue staff. Conducted
outrach through Climate Action booth at Wastewater Treatment Plant Open House.
BE -5: INCORPORATE AN EDUCATION COMPONENT INTO FUTURE SOLAR
INSTALLATIONS ON CITY PROPERTIES OR FACILITIES
STATUS: LONG -TERM/ONGOING
2023: Established online solar dashboard for Public Works array to provide publicly available real
time data on system output.
2024: Created digital signage for airport lobby with information related to airport solar array. Ribbon
cutting included speeches on benefits of solar.
INCENTIVE ACTION ITEMS
BI -1: OFFER FREE HOME ENERGY ASSESSMENTS THROUGH GREEN IOWA
AMERICORPS
STATUS: LONG TERM/ONGOING
2020: During COVID-19 pandemic, weatherization kits distributed to interested households instead
of conducting home energy audits. Host site fee = $8000 for 5 full time AmeriCorps members.
2021: Resumed in-home Energy Audits; AmeriCorps perform audits daily to meet demand/help
with backlog. Host site fee = $8000 for 5 full time AmeriCorps members and 2 summer members.
2022: Performed 109 audits (‘21-‘22 term). Host site fees = $10,000 for 5 full time AmeriCorps
members and 2 summer members.
2023: Established agreement with Johnson County to co-sponsor 2024 team to expand program
reach. Team performed 138 audits (’22-’23 term). Host site fees=$20,000 for 4 three-quarter time
members, one sponsored by the County, and 2 summer members. Submitted letter of support to
the State advocating for the continuation of the Commission on Volunteer Service, a federal
requirement to maintain an AmeriCorps program.
2024: Extended collaboration with Johnson County another year. Team performed 130 audits (’23-
’24 term). Host site fees = $20,000 for 4 three-quarter time members, one sponsored by the
County, and no summer members.
2025: Ford Lightning pickup on order for GIA team to support continued audits in wider service
area.
BI -2: ENHANCE ENERGY STANDARDS FOR CITY REHABILITATION PROJECTS
STATUS: LONG TERM/ONGOING
2020 baseline: Established energy efficiency guidelines for City rehab projects; all rehab
participants receive energy audits.
2020: Developed improvement priorities in collaboration with Housing and Neighborhood
Development staff and a process for continued partnership on increasing the energy efficiency of
homes rehabbed through the South District Homeownership Program (SDHP).
2021: Installed heat pump mini splits in two SDHP homes and upgraded electrical panel in 14
others to support future electrical appliance upgrades.
2022: Sold 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) to an income-qualified Iowa City resident.
2023: Sold second SDHP property featuring climate action contributions.
2024-2025: Continued collaboration between Climate Action and Housing Rehab staff to replace
furnaces with heat pumps and increase insulation in City-owned properties.
BI -3: COORDINATE NEIGHBORHOOD ENERGY BLITZ EVENTS
STATUS: LONG TERM/ONGOING
2021: Launched first Energy Blitz event in April. Worked with South District Neighborhood
Association; target of 50 volunteers and 1200 homes reached.
2022: Deployed second Energy Blitz in collaboration with Lucas Farms Neighborhood Association
in April; target of 50 volunteers and 950 homes reached.
2023: Deployed third Energy Blitz in Creekside and part of Morningside-Glendale neighborhoods in
April; target of 50 volunteers and 833 households reached. Piloted “Mini-Blitz” in June for remaining
Morningside-Glendale homes; target of 200 additional homes reached.
2024: Deployed fourth Energy Blitz in Washington Hills neighborhood in April; target of 50
volunteers and 715 households reached. Mini-Blitz held in Lake Ridge manufactured home park in
August in collaboration with Johnson County; target of 50 homes reached.
2025: Fifth Energy Blitz planned for half of Eastside neighborhood in April; target of 50 volunteers
and 815 homes.
BI -4: LAUNCH A TIF -FUNDED CLIMATE ACTION INCENTIVE PROGRAM AIMED AT
REDUCING INDUSTRIAL ENERGY CONSUMPTION
STATUS: LONG TERM/ONGOING
2020: Council approved Urban Renewal Area amendments for Heinz/Sycamore/Scott Six URA and
Downtown/Riverfront Crossings to enable TIF Incentive Program in these areas.
2021: Launched Heinz/SYC/Scott Six Industrial TIF Energy Efficiency Matching Grant Pilot Program,
providing 50/50 matching grants up to $250,000. Eight projects approved:
• Adamantine Spine: solar array
• Alpla: chiller/cooler replacements and LED lighting upgrade
• Earl May: solar array
• First Avenue Mini-Mall: solar array and LED lighting upgrade
• Iowa City Storage: solar array and LED lighting upgrade
• Lasansky: window replacement and HVAC efficiency upgrade
• Old Capitol Foods: HVAC replacement
• P&G/Oral B: high efficiency air compressor
Second Commerical Energy Efficiency Improvement Matching Grant Program launched in
Downtown, Riverfront Crossings, and Northside Marketplace providing 50/50 matching grants.
2022: Two applications approved in Industrial Area Grant Program, two in Downtown EE Grant
Program:
• Reunion Brewery: solar array
• UNFI: LED lighting upgrade
• Neumann Monson: mechanical and electrical system upgrades
• Graduate hotel: high efficiency cooling tower
2023: Three downtown TIF grants approved:
• Bluebird Diner: HVAC upgrade, windows, and LED fixtures
• Hamburg 2: HVAC upgrade
• ICON Arts Academy: LED lighting and occupancy sensors, heat pump HVAC system
TIF districts expire in industrial zones in June, concluding the program for those that area.
2024: Proposed expansion of TIF incentives for both new and existing construction brought to
Council to cover all current and future Urban Renewal Areas, including those previously not
included in program: Riverside Drive, Towncrest, and Highway 6 Commercial District
BI -5: DEVELOP OR PARTNER WITH LOCAL STAKEHOLDERS ON A COMPREHENSIVE
CLIMATE ACTION REHABILITATION PROGRAM
STATUS: NOT STARTED
2020 baseline: Conversations about concept with community partners reveals interest in
supporting skills/job training program.
2021: Partnered with Neighborhood Services and Kirkwood Community College on “Woman Build”
skill building program. Partnered with Neighborhood Services, ICCSD, and Climate Action staff on
Student Build remodel/energy efficiency rehab project.
Note: Staff recommend reevaluating this action item in light of Kirkwood closure, IRA incentives,
and other recent developments, possibly benchmarking other programs such as Cedar Rapids
Transform Week
BI -6: CONSIDER A BUILDING PERMIT FEE REBATE PROGRAM FOR ENHANCED ENERGY
STANDARDS
STATUS: LONG TERM/ONGOING
2022: Met with Neighborhood Development Services to discuss potential requirements, costs, and
means to offset loss of permit fees. General disinterest in a fee rebate noted among builders,
realtors, and NDS staff.
2023: Continued discussions with NDS on alternatives, including structuring as a grant rather than
fee rebate and pairing it with HERS score for independent verification. Discussion with HBA to
partner on promoting HERS grant through Parade of Homes.
2024: Launched HERS incentive program offering $1800 grants to builders who achieve a score of
52 or better. Eight HERS grants awarded during first 6 months of program, including two for
multifamily dwellings and two for repeat applicants. Best scoring Parade builder recognized during
Parade of Homes and best scoring builder overall recognized at December City Council meeting.
2025: HERS incentive program continues with increased participation anticipated. One award
given in February, one in March, and four on track for April. Once again partnering with HBA
renewed to fund HERS scores for all Iowa City parade homes and award for best scoring HBA
builder at Builders Breakfast.
Note: Staff recommend renaming this action item to reflect evolution into HERS incentive program.
BI -7: INITIATE A NET -ZERO HOUSE DESIGN COMPETITION
STATUS: DEFERRED
2020 baseline: Conceptual conversations include establishing a student and professional
category and possibility of a modified category for retrofit/remodel at lower energy savings.
2022: Supported local entries in a design competition for high school students in collaboration with
HBA and ICCSD.
Note: Ongoing conversations with local architects suggest net zero home designs already exist and
local competition is unlikely to accomplish other goals related to adoption of such designs; other
conversations with NDS staff about previous program to offer “open source” blueprints for any
builder to use got little traction as local builders prefer to use their own signature designs as part of
their brand strategy.
BI -8 : COMPLETE A NET -ZERO DEMONSTRATION REHABILITATION PROJECT
STATUS: UNDERWAY
2020: Collaborated with C-WISE on a video featuring a local LEED Platinum residence as a
demonstration of a lot redeveloped with a design that approaches a net-zero energy profile.
2021: Collaborated on two SDHP demonstration projects, one featured in the Remodeler's Parade,
intended also to serve as a test case toward net-zero rehabilitation. Work included walls, floor, and
attic rehab, new windows and doors, heat pump HVAC and water heater, and rooftop solar arrays.
Combined, these projects achieved significant cost savings but did not achieve a net zero energy
profile. The size of the rooftop proved to be a limiting factor in the amount of energy that could be
generated on site, while further insulation measures in the basement proved out of scope for the
budget (which was doubled over typical projects).
Note on lessons learned: Subsequent staff investigations into successful net zero rehabilitation
projects in other cities reveals they generally simulate new construction conditions. Consensus
among local rehab builders consulted by staff suggests the same, requiring buildings to be torn
down to the studs to achieve the necessary efficiency gains. Staff recommend reevaluating this
action item in conjunction with BI-5 to better define a scope a focus for rehabilitation efforts.
BI -9: LAUNCH AN ELECTRIFICATION INCENTIVE PROGRAM
STATUS: LONG TERM/ONGOING
2020 baseline: MidAmerican offers select rebate options. Iowa City offers energy efficiency loan
program for HVAC and insulation projects (GRIP loans).
2021: Piloted a Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program as a supplemental grant program for
electrification/energy efficiency improvements for households participating in the existing NDS
rehab loan programs.
2022: Awarded a Climate Action Grant to Habitat for Humanity to support a Women's Build
Electrification Project. Awarded a Climate Action Grant to Prairie Kitchen Store to replace gas
water heater with electric heat pump unit.
2024: Launched Whole Home Energy Retrofit Grant Program. Applications received from landlords
and properties are selected for Whole Home pilot program participation.
BI -10: INCENTIVIZE ENERGY ENHANCEMENTS AND BUILDING RE - AND RETRO -
COMMISSIONING FOR PARTICIPANTS IN THE ENERGY BENCHMARKING PROGRAM
STATUS: NOT STARTED
See BR-4
REGULATION ACTION ITEMS
BR -1: CREATE A MORE ROBUST ENERGY CODE INSPECTION PROGRAM
STATUS: LONG TERM/ONGOING
2020 baseline: City Council provided budget authority for addition of inspector to enable expanded
workload.
2021: New inspectors hired.
2022: Building code inspectors receive training and certification for energy code inspections,
attending an Iowa Energy Office seminar in March as a department.
BR -2: INCORPORATE STRICTER ENERGY STANDARDS INTO TIF FINANCING POLICIES
STATUS: LONG TERM/ONGOING
2020 baseline: 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.
2024: TIF Policy reviewed and updated by City Council, with provisions added allowing for
accounting of embodied carbon and alternate third-party verification pathways. Retained LEED
Silver as the baseline for new construction, while upgrades to existing structures allowed to draw
from LEED Silver requirements.
BR -3: INCORPORATE STRICT ENERGY STANDARDS INTO HEIGHT AND DENSITY
BONUSES
STATUS: COMPLETED
2020 baseline: Application of the height density bonus is discretionary, and staff instructed to
require energy efficiency measures as a category for height bonuses. These provisions closely
mirror the existing TIF standards. Staff requires stricter standards administratively until the Code is
amended.
2022: Code updates recommended to include density bonuses and parking reductions for building
to 2022 Energy Code and/or full electrification in new construction.
2023: Recommended code amendments related to density bonuses approved by City Council; see
also BR-6.
BR -4: INITIATE ENERGY BENCHMARKING REQUIREMENTS
STATUS: LONG TERM/ONG OING
2022: Researched energy benchmarking programs, looking at other communities and conducting a
basic analysis of building footprints in Iowa City.
2023: Established a Climate Action Commission working group to provide a recommendation to
City Council on this topic while tracking HF 605, a bill that would prohibit cities from establishing
benchmarking/building performance requirements. Working group recommended a pilot program
with voluntary participation, which is launched late in the year with participation from a church and
restaurant. Previous TIF awardees are invited to participate as well.
2024: Pilot benchmarking program continues with limited participation. Staff establish
participation in benchmarking as a requirement for future TIF awardees.
Note: Staff recommend reevaluating this item as to whether to continue to pursue requirements
broadly or continue a more targeted effort tied to participation in financial incentive programs.
BR -5: DEVELOP CLIMATE ACTION REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL EXISTING AND FUTURE
RENTAL PERMITS
STATUS: NOT STARTED
2020: Climate Action Commission consults with Housing Inspection Services staff, which
identifies a significant barrier in triggering state preemption for requirements that do not have a
clear and explicit health & safety connection.
Note: Staff recommend reevaluating this item with two potential reconfigurations: a recognition
program for landlords undertaking significant voluntary climate action efforts on their properties
and/or reassigning this action item to adaptation with an intent to identify requirements to pursue
with a health & safety connection, i.e. requiring air conditioning in rental properties in light of
increasing high heat days.
BR -6: ASSESS AND UPDATE CITY ZONING CODES FOR SOLAR
R EADINESS/FRIENDLINESS
STATUS: COMPLETED
CITY POLICY ACTION ITEMS
BCP -1: ADVOCATE FOR STATE ADOPTION OF ADVANCED ENERGY CODES
STATUS: LONG TERM/ONGOING
2020: Included in City Council State Legislative Priorities.
2021: Included in City Council State Legislative Priorities.
2022: Included in City Council State Legislative Priorities.
2023: Included in City Council State Legislative Priorities.
2024: Included in City Council State Legislative Priorities.
Note: Current state code is the 2012 IECC code. Although the City continues to advocate for
adoption of a more recent IECC code, there has been little traction on this issue at the state level.
BCP -2: ADVOCATE FOR AGGRESSIVE ENERGY CODE DEVELOPMENT AND ADOPTION
STATUS: LONG TERM/ONGOING
2020: See note under BCP-1 regarding state adoption; City staff began early discussions with HBA
on potential for voluntary elevation of energy efficient building standards.
2022: Sponsored three Building Inspectors to attend IAEE Energy Summit to help identify
opportunities for engagement and voluntary adoption on the local level.
2024: Launched HERS incentive program, which requires buildings to be 20% more efficient than
current 2012 code requirements. (see BI-6)
PUBLIC PROJECTS
BP P-1: SOLAR OR BATTERY STORAGE PARTNERSHIP WITH MIDAMERICAN ENERGY
STATUS: LONG TERM/ONGOING
2020: City Council voted not to proceed with proposed project at Waterworks Prairie Park. Johnson
Clean Energy District granted funds to convene stakeholders and collaborate with staff on a solar
feasibility report.
2022: Solar feasibility report completed. Potential follow-up priorities identified in CAC working
group, memo sent to Council, and Climate Action Plan amended to add BE-5 and update BP-1 to
include addition of battery storage, along with reaffirmation of BP-4.
2024: Initiated conversation with Eastern Iowa Light & Power about solar installation to power
wastewater treatment operations.
BPP-2: NET -ZERO PUBLIC HOUSING
STATUS: LONG TERM/ONGOING
2023: Designed 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.
2024: Funding support given to Housing Trust Fund student build project designed to achieve Gold
Platinum certification. 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. BE-2 item regarding Community Change Grant application.
BP P-3: MUNICIPAL BUILDING EFFICIENCY AND ELECTRIFICATION
STATUS: LONG TERM/ONGOING
2020 baseline: The City has been undertaking a full upgrade from HID to LED lighting on all parking
ramp top decks, with 10 completed already on the Court St. Ramp and 31 more are planned for
replacement at the Dubuque, Capitol, and Swan ramps.
2022: Completed LED lighting retrofit for Waterworks facility.
2023: Upgraded airport and fire station HID lights 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. LED lighting installed at Mercer Park ball field
#1 and parking areas; GHG inventory of municipal facilities and operations initiated.
2024: Met with MidAm to discuss lighting retrofit for PD, Fire Station 1, and HVAC automation for
Senior Center projects. Municipal GHG inventory completed. Climate Action staff consulted on
mechanical system design for new City Park Pool and recommend heat pump systems for bath
house. Insulation added to City Hall as part of roof rehab project; LED retrofit of third floor
commences in December.
2025: USGBC consults with staff on including Public Works facility in LEED Core Concepts
textbook as a LEED Gold case study.
Note: Possible next steps for electrification include possibility of EV charging at public parks with
dedicated parking lots (Mercer, Terry Trueblood, City Park, Riverfront Crossings, Willow Creek,
Scott Park)
BPP-4: ADVOCATE FOR STATE LEGISLATIVE CHANGES TO ENABLE SUBSCRIPTION -
BASED COMMUNITY SOLAR
STATUS: LONG TERM/ONGOING
2021: Included in City Council State Legislative Priorities.
2022: Included in City Council State Legislative Priorities.
2023: Included in City Council State Legislative Priorities. Climate Action Staff met with state
Energy Office to discuss Solar for All community solar application and barriers to implementation
under current MidAm tariffs.
2024: Included in City Council State Legislative Priorities.
2025: Monitoring progress of HSB 81 (renamed HF 404, amended to H-1095) and SF 267, both of
which would enable net metering/community solar.