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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCFE agenda 061217AGENDA Orange County Commission for the Environment June 12, 2017 7:30 p.m. Animal Services Center, 1601 Eubanks Road, Chapel Hill Time Item Title 7:30 I. Call to Order 7:32 II. Additions or Changes to Agenda 7:35 III. Approval of Draft Minutes — May 8, 2017 The CFE will consider approval of minutes from the last meeting. (Attachment 1) 7:40 IV. Discussion of Fossil Fuel Free Draft Resolution At the May CFE meeting, information concerning a draft resolution asking the BOCC to consider supporting the effort to be fossil fuel free by 2050 was presented. (Attachments 2, 3, and 4) 8:00 V. Conservation of Roadside Native Plants Johnny Randall of the NC Botanical Garden will discuss efforts to conserve native plants along Orange County roadsides. (Attachment 5 and Attachment 6) 8:20 VI. CFE Facebook Page Brennan will provide an update concerning the new Facebook page. 8:30 VII. CFE Committee Meetings Committees will review their updated priorities and discuss efforts to proceed (Attachment 7). 9:00 VIII. Updates and Information Items Staff and /or CFE members will provide updates on the following items: ➢ Continuing Action Items from previous CFE meetings o SOE 2019 Planning (Attachment 8) ➢ Carrboro Screening of Hometown Habitat Movie (Attachment 9) ➢ NC Renewable Energy Tax Breaks Article (Attachment 10) ➢ Draft Regional Conservation Plan (Attachment 11) ➢ Any other new information from CFE members and staff 9:15 IX. Adjournment Next Meeting; August 14, Richard Whined Facility • PLEASE NOTE; The September 11 and November 13 CFE meetings will be held at the Animal Services Building, 1601 Eubanks Road, Chapel Hill. CFE Meeting Ground Rules (Adopted 9112111) 1. Keep to agenda topic under discussion 2. Share relevant information 3. One person speaks at a time after recognition by the Chair 4. Everyone is invited to participate in discussions / no one person should dominate discussions ,. Strive to reach consensus first before voting Activities the CFE expects to carry out in 2017: • Continue to write news articles on environmental issues of importance to Orange County, including climate change, energy conservation, and other important topics • Continue to explore ways to improve the County's ability to foster local sustainable energy production and energy efficiency strategies, including making Orange County an even better place for appropriately -sited solar energy generation, including developing incentives for increasing energy efficiency in new construction • Recommend ways to reduce the County's "carbon footprint" and implement the County's Environmental Responsibility Goal (BOCC Priority #10) • Continue to help with public outreach and management efforts related to hydrilla in the Eno River • Participate in a County effort to identify and preserve important landscape corridors that connect significant natural areas and open space (BOCC Priority #1) • Co- sponsor the annual DEAPR photography contest (The Nature of Orange) • Help plan for and participate in County's annual Earth Evening event Concerns or emerging issues the CFE has identified for 2017: • The CFE will continue to advocate for an expansion of the County's commercial food waste pickup and composting services to reduce food waste in the solid waste stream • The CFE remains interested in developing incentives for increasing energy efficiency in new construction • The CFE will continue to learn more about environmental justice matters and incorporate relevant information and considerations in the next State of the Environment report (2020) and its other activities • The CFE will continue to follow the Solid Waste Advisory Group's discussions of how to improve the handling and disposal of Orange County's solid waste, and will advocate for better long -term solutions • The CFE will continue to advocate for increased efforts to gather information related to water resources in Orange County and to increase public awareness and understanding of water supply sources, related concerns, and what steps can be undertaken to maintain or improve the quantity and quality of Orange County water supply resources • The CFE will continue to address, as appropriate, the critical environmental issues for Orange County as enumerated on page 3 of the 2014 State of the Environment report, which include potential adverse effects from a) invasive, non - native, plant and animal species; b) reductions in State -led collection of water resources data; c) potential drilling for natural gas in the Deep River basin; d) urban sprawl; and CFE support for e) the responsible deployment of clean and appropriately -sited renewable energy and reductions in energy use to help fight climate change Orange County Commission for the Environment IIIIIIIIII'� VIII " " " "' "" "11111 "" Meeting Summary May 8, 2017 Solid Waste Management Administration Building, Eubanks Road, Chapel Hill Present: Lynne Gronback (Chair), Bill Kaiser (Vice Chair), May Becker, Jeremy Marzuola, Jeanette O'Connor, Alan Parry, Sheila Thomas - Ambat, Marshall Gray, Matt Crook Absent: Lydia Wegman, Rebecca Ray, Peter Cada, Alex Nicodem, Bill Newby Staff: Tom Davis, Brennan Bouma I. Call to Order Chair Gronback called the meeting to order at 7:31. II. Additions or Changes to Agenda Introduction of Kim Livingston the new County Land Resources Coordinator III. Approval of Draft Minutes from April 10, 2017. Bill Kaiser motioned to approve the minutes as written. Marshall Gray seconded. Minutes were approved unanimously. IV. Guest Presentation — Kim Piracci of The North Carolina Climate Solutions Coalition (NCCSC) will present information concerning the resolution they are asking the Orange County Commissioners to consider including a commitment to be fossil fuel free by 2050. (Attachments 2, 3, and 4) The proposed resolution is based on Stanford Professor Marc Jacobson's published work. Kim had a conversation with Commissioner Renee Price. Comm. Price recommended that Kim present to the CFE and then the CFE could put it forward to the Commissioners if they approve. Kim clarified that as long as no new fossil fuel generation sources are built, all existing sources would have outlived their useful life by the target date. She also clarified that this would be a non - binding resolution, and that 2050 is a long time, given the rapid rate of change in energy technologies and energy markets. The CFE agreed to review the documents and put it on their agenda next month for a vote. V. Orange County Recycling Programs - Orange County Recycling Programs Manager Allison Lohrenz presented information concerning recycling efforts, including composting, in Orange County. Orange County Solid Waste has met its aggressive per capita waste reduction goal for FY 15 -16 of 62% overall, meaning that the waste landfilled per capita was 0.52 tons per person last year compared to 1.36 tons /capita per person in base year 1991. This surpassed for the third year in a row, our goal set in 1997 of 61% reduction. The County's composting efforts were a significant part of this reduction since they divert some of the heaviest and hardest -to- process material from the waste stream. This residential program assists homeowners in composting at home through selling compost bins and training residents in their use. Residential food waste can also be dropped off at several locations. The commercial composting program includes free pickup from more than 10 businesses around the County by the County's composting contractor, Brooks. The material is then composted at their facility and a portion is sold back to the County and then to residents for productive use. t to ( III u�r.�. ii '..t.....�.......� The CFE could help support the County's composting efforts by reaching out to local businesses to recruit more into the program. The program is free, the businesses just need to produce a minimum of 2 tons of compostable waste. They can pool together with other nearby businesses to share a container. VI. CFE Facebook Page — Brennan provided an update concerning the new CFE Facebook page. Marzoula had an idea to write a very brief summary of each meeting to post immediately after the meeting and then the minutes could be linked the next month once approved. VII. CFE Committee Break -out Sessions Committees reviewed their draft updated priorities and discuss how to proceed (Attachment 5). VIII. Updates and Information Items Staff and /or CFE members will provide updates on the following items: • Continuing Action Items from previous CFE meetings o SOE 2019 Planning (Attachment 6) • Efforts to Freeze NC Renewable Energy Requirements (Attachment 7) • Forget About Climate Change (Attachment 8) • Any other new information from CFE members and staff IX. Adjournment Crook motioned to adjourn, Marzoula seconded. Meeting adjourned at 9:20 pm. Summary by B. Bouma, AMS Staff Next Meeting; June 12, Anima/ Services Building PLEASE NOTE; The September 11 and November 13 CFE meetings will be held at the Animal Services Building, 1601 Eubanks Road, Chapel Hill, Background on the 100% Clean Energy and Green Jobs Resolution for the Orange County Board of Commissioners • The Resolution calls for the State of North Carolina and the United States to establish a transition from a fossil fuel -based economy to a 100% clean renewable energy for all energy sectors -based economy, by January 1, 2050 or sooner to avoid climate catastrophe, to promote job creation and economic growth, and to protect the Earth for current and future generations from climate catastrophe. • Achieving this goal would result in the total phase out of fossil fuels by 2050 for energy use. • Numerous scientists, policymakers, business and faith leaders, environmentalists and others have stated that we are in a "climate emergency." • The use of fossil fuels by society is the primary cause of climate change according to leading scientific, academic and governmental organizations, including the National Academy of Sciences, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Department of Defense, United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and numerous other authorities. • Climate change leads to rising sea levels through the melting of the glaciers and an increase in the severity and frequency of flooding, wildfires, droughts, heatwaves, infectious diseases among other disastrous impacts that can lead to death and dire economic impacts if not stopped. Human - induced climate change can only be stopped by phasing out fossil fuels, which cause greenhouse gas emissions such as carbon dioxide and methane. These emissions trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere and oceans according to an overwhelming scientific consensus. • In December 2015, nearly 200 nations, including the United States, signed a climate agreement in Paris, France to phase out all fossil fuels and to keep the global temperature increase since the 19"' Century to well below 2 degrees Celsius and to pursue efforts to keep it below 1.5 degrees Celsius. North Carolina is second in the nation in solar capacity behind California and also has the biggest potential for offshore wind energy on the Eastern Seaboard. This resolution has been endorsed by the North Carolina Climate Solutions Coalition (NCCSC), a group dedicated to fight climate change and support clean energy, which consists of the following organizations: Climate Voices US, Justice Action Mobilization Network, Hip Hop Caucus, The Climate Times, Sustainable Sandhills, The Canary Coalition, Beyond Extreme Energy, Divestment Student Network, Blue Ridge Environmental Defense League (BREDL), NC Power Forward, Temple Emanuel Environmental Movement, Appalachian Voices, and the Long Branch Environmental Education Center. The Coalition is led by Boone, NC resident Dr. Harvard Ayers, Professor Emeritus of Anthropology at Appalachian State University. The Advisory Committee for the North Carolina Climate Solutions Coalition includes internationally recognized scientists and author /activist: Dr. Michael Mann, Distinguished Professor of Atmospheric Science, Penn State University; Dr. Robert Howarth, David R. Atkinson Professor of Ecology and Environmental Biology, Cornell University; Dr. George Woodwell, Founder and Director Emeritus of the Woods Hole Research Center; Dr. Mark Z. Jacobson, Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Director of the Atmosphere /Energy Program, Stanford University; Bill McKibben, author, climate activist, Schumann Distinguished Scholar at Middlebury College, Founder of 350.org; and Dr. Richard Gray, Professor of Physics, Appalachian State University. tta °Ili irnen..t.........� On December 15, 2016, the Boone Town Council adopted by a vote of 5 -0 a resolution calling for a goal of 100% clean energy and green jobs for all energy sectors for the State of North Carolina and the United States by the year 2050. The vote was historic because the Town of Boone became the first municipality in the United States officially calling for a 100% clean energy for all energy sectors goal for their state and the United States . °2 On January 17, 2017, the Watauga County Board of Commissioners adopted by a unanimous, bipartisan vote of 5 -0 a resolution calling for 100% clean energy and green jobs for the State of North Carolina and the United States by the year 2050 for the purpose of avoiding climate catastrophe.' • A joint Stanford University and University of California- Berkeley study concludes the United States and the world energy supply could be based entirely on renewable energy by the year 2050 using current technologies and 80% renewable energy by 2030 while creating numerous green jobs . 4 Currently, 20 U.S. cities have already committed to 100% clean energy only for their electrical grid and not for all energy sectors (which would include electrical grid, transportation and all other energy sectors) and only for their own city. However, the Town of Boone adoption of the 100% Clean Energy and Green Jobs Resolution calls for achieving 100% clean energy by 2050 for all energy sectors for both North Carolina State and the United States, which is what makes the Boone Resolution the first of its kind in the nation for a town or municipality. A resolution introduced in 2015 in the U.S. House of Representatives calling for a goal of 100% clean renewable energy for all energy sectors for the United States by 2050 had 59 cosponsors (H.Res.540 /Grijalva). H.Res.540, which has the same national goal as this Resolution, has been endorsed by over 450 organizations, local officials, academics, civic leaders and businesses, including the Sierra Club, Friends of the Earth, Environment America, Physicians for Social Responsibility, Public Citizen, Interfaith Power & Light, The Solutions Project, Environment North Carolina, Southern Alliance for Clean Energy, as well as six North Carolina state legislators: Senator Jane Smith; Senator Mike Woodard; Rep. Pricey Harrison; Rep. Shelly Willingham; Rep. Susan Fisher; and Senator Valerie Foushee.s' 6 • In 2016, 48 countries of the Climate Vulnerable Forum agreed while attending the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Marrakech, Morocco (COP22) to make their energy production 100% renewable "as rapidly as possible" and by between 2030 and 2050 at the latest. 'http: / /www.ecowatch.com /renewable- energy - solutions- project- 2151130342.htm1 z http://www.wataugademocrat.com / news /boone - council- endorses -call- for - total- clean - energy- by/a rticle _a6848f65- 34c5- 505f- 8f9f -d 17d77fc39b5.html 3 http://www.hcpress.com/ front - page /watauga- commissioners - adopt- 100 - clean- energy - green - jobs- resolution- historic- vote.html 4 http: / /thesoIutionsproject.org/ ' http:/ /www.environmentamerica.org / news /ame/ over - 450 - groups - officials- and - academics -call- congress -back- 100- renews b le-e ne rgy-goa 1 6http://environmentamerica.org/ sites / environment / files /resources / 100% 25 %20Coalition %20Letter.pdf ?_ga =1.25 4070088.1904749149.1483228634 Pa RESOLUTION OF THE ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS IN SUPPORT OF A STATE AND NATIONAL GOAL OF 100% CLEAN ENERGY BY 2050 AND THE CREATION OF GREEN JOBS Whereas, climate change has increased the global average surface temperature by 1.00 degrees Celsius (1.8 degrees Fahrenheit) since 1880; Whereas, climate change is expected to increasingly impact North Carolina's temperatures, precipitation and sea level with harmful consequences in coming years; Whereas, climate change and global average temperature increases are primarily due to human - caused fossil fuels emissions, including coal, oil and natural gas, according to the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, National Academy of Sciences, American Meteorological Society, United States Environmental Protection Agency, United States Department of Defense, and numerous other leading scientific, academic and governmental authorities both in the United States and internationally; Whereas, a final agreement of the United Nations Conference of Parties (COP21), which included the United States and a total of 195 nations, was reached in Paris, France on December 12, 2015, that states the aim is to "holding the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels and pursuing efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels" and entered into force on November 4, 2016; Whereas, scientists have concluded the concentration of carbon dioxide, the leading greenhouse gas, in the Earth's atmosphere is currently and consistently over 400 parts per million (ppm) and will likely stay above this level for the indefinite future for the first time in millions of years; Whereas, sixteen of the seventeen hottest years on record have occurred in the twenty - first century and 2016 is the hottest year on record; Whereas, an increase in the global average temperature is having and will continue to increasingly have major adverse impacts, if not stopped by eliminating the use of fossil fuels, on both the natural and human -made environments due to longer, more intense heat waves, prolonged droughts, spread of infectious diseases, rising sea levels, ocean acidification, wildfires, and more intense and frequent extreme weather events; Whereas, these physical effects are expected to lead to water scarcity, food insecurity, increasing numbers of refugees, increased poverty, and the mass extinction of species; Whereas, studies completed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Risky Business Project, Duke University, and others point to the severe economic costs of climate change and continuing use of fossil fuel, estimating billions of dollars a year in costs nationally and trillions globally; Whereas, leading economists, policy experts, and business leaders conclude that transitioning to a clean energy economy available for all would create millions of green jobs nationally, improve health and living standards, and boost economic growth in coming years; Whereas, a study cited two of the twenty dirtiest coal plants in the country in North Carolina, the Belews Creek plant and the Roxboro Steam plant; Whereas, low- income communities and communities of color in North Carolina and the United States are inordinately exposed to pollution, that causes serious health problems such as cancer and asthma, from fossil fuels, including the dirtiest coal -fired power plants which produce coal ash, and need to be empowered and have access to educational tools and an awareness of climate issues; Whereas, a Stanford University and University of California - Berkeley study concludes the United States energy supply could be based entirely on renewable energy by the year 2050 using current technologies and 80% renewable energy by 2030 while creating numerous green jobs; Whereas, municipalities, organizations, businesses, and academic institutions throughout the world have set a goal to achieve carbon or climate neutrality by 2050 or earlier; Whereas, over 1,000 mayors have joined the U.S. Conference of Mayors Climate Protection Agreement since 2005 to commit to significantly reduce carbon emissions in their cities to combat climate change; Whereas, over 600 American colleges and universities have made a commitment to reduce greenhouse gases, including Appalachian State University, Blue Ridge Community College, Carteret Community College, Catawba College, Central Carolina Community College, Davidson College, Duke University, Elizabeth City State University, Fayetteville State University, Guilford College, North Carolina Central University, Queens University of Charlotte, Southeastern Community College, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Wake Technical Community College, and Warren Wilson College; Whereas, North Carolina installed 1,140 MW of solar electric capacity in 2015, ranking it second nationally; nearly $1.7 billion was invested on solar installations in North Carolina, a 159% increase over the previous year; there are currently more than 200 solar companies at work throughout the value chain in North Carolina, the state companies employing some 6,000 people; North Carolina ranks third in the nation in installed solar capacity, enough to power 260,000 homes; and solar photovoltaic system prices in the U.S. have dropped by 66% since 2010; Whereas, North Carolina has more offshore wind energy potential than any other Atlantic state; Whereas, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Fifth Assessment Report recommended a global goal of achieving near zero greenhouse gas emissions or below, which is necessary to stabilize the global average temperature to avoid climate catastrophe; Now, therefore, Be it resolved that the Orange County Board of Commissioners does hereby approve of the following: SECTION 1. The State of North Carolina and the United States shall establish a transition from a fossil fuel -based economy to a 100% clean renewable energy for all energy sectors -based economy, by January 1, 2050 or sooner to avoid climate catastrophe, to promote job creation and economic growth, and to protect the Earth for current and future generations from climate catastrophe. SECTION 2. This resolution is effective upon adoption. H . . . : . . . . GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF NORTH CAROLINA SESSION 2017 HOUSE RESOLUTION 401 Sponsors: Representatives Harrison, Autry, Fisher, and Farmer - Butterfield (Primary Sponsors). For a complete list of sponsors, refer to the North Carolina General Assembly web site. Referred to: Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House March 20, 2017 1 A HOUSE RESOLUTION SUPPORTING A STATE GOAL OF ONE HUNDRED PERCENT 2 CLEAN ENERGY BY 2050 AND THE CREATION OF GREEN JOBS. 3 Whereas, since 1880, climate change has increased the global average surface 4 temperature by 1.00 degree Celsius (1.8 degrees Fahrenheit); and 5 Whereas, climate change is expected to increasingly impact North Carolina's 6 temperatures, precipitation, and sea level with harmful consequences in coming years; and 7 Whereas, climate change and global average temperature increases are primarily due 8 to human - caused fossil fuels emissions, including coal, oil, and natural gas, according to the 9 United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, National Academy of Sciences, 10 American Meteorological Society, United States Environmental Protection Agency, United 11 States Department of Defense, and numerous other leading scientific, academic, and 12 governmental authorities both in the United States and internationally; and 13 Whereas, a final agreement of the United Nations Conference of Parties (COP21), 14 including the United States and a total of 195 nations, was reached in Paris, France, on 15 December 12, 2015, entered into force on November 4, 2016, and stated the aim to "hold the 16 increase in the global average temperature to well below 2 degrees Celsius above preindustrial 17 levels and pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius above 18 preindustrial levels "; and 19 Whereas, scientists have concluded the concentration of carbon dioxide, the leading 20 greenhouse gas, in the Earth's atmosphere is currently and consistently over 400 parts per 21 million (ppm) and will likely stay above this level for the indefinite future for the first time in 22 millions of years; and 23 Whereas, 16 of the 17 hottest years on record have occurred in the 21st century, and 24 2016 is the hottest year on record; and 25 Whereas, an increase in the global average temperature, if not stopped, will have 26 major adverse impacts on both the natural and human -made environments due to longer, more 27 intense heat waves, prolonged droughts, rising sea levels, ocean acidification, and more intense 28 and frequent extreme weather events; and 29 Whereas, these physical effects are expected to lead to water scarcity, food 30 insecurity, increasing numbers of refugees, increased poverty, and mass extinctions of species; 31 and 32 Whereas, studies completed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Risky 33 Business Project, Duke University, and others point to the severe economic costs of climate 34 change and continuing use of fossil fuel, estimating billions of dollars a year in costs nationally 35 and trillions globally; and 11111111111111111111 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 AttacJirnent General Assembly Of North Carolina Session... 2017 .............. Whereas, leading economists, policy experts, and business leaders conclude that transitioning to a clean energy economy available for all would create millions of green jobs nationally, improve our living standards, and boost economic growth in coming years; and Whereas, low- income communities and communities of color in North Carolina and the United States are inordinately exposed to pollution that causes serious health problems, such as cancer and asthma, from fossil fuels, including the dirtiest coal -fired power plants, which produce coal ash and which are disproportionately located in communities of color; and Whereas, a Stanford University and University of California - Berkeley study concludes the United States energy supply could be based entirely on renewable energy by the year 2050 using current technologies and 80% on renewable energy by 2030 while creating numerous green jobs; and Whereas, municipalities, organizations, businesses, and academic institutions throughout the world have set a goal to achieve carbon or climate neutrality by 2050 or earlier; and Whereas, over 600 American colleges and universities have made a commitment to reduce greenhouse gases, including Appalachian State University, Blue Ridge Community College, Carteret Community College, Catawba College, Central Carolina Community College, Davidson College, Duke University, Elizabeth City State University, Fayetteville State University, Guilford College, North Carolina Central University, Queens University of Charlotte, Southeastern Community College, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Wake Technical Community College, and Warren Wilson College; and Whereas, some of the statistics regarding North Carolina's use of solar energy include the following: (i) installing 1,140 megawatts of solar electric capacity in 2015, ranking it second nationally, (ii) investing nearly $1.7 billion on solar installations in the State, a 159% increase over the previous year; (iii) having more than 200 solar companies at work throughout the value chain in North Carolina, which employs some 6,000 people; (iv) ranking third in the nation in installed solar capacity, providing enough energy to power 260,000 homes; and (v) having more offshore wind energy potential than any Atlantic state; and Whereas, since 2010, solar photovoltaic system prices in the United States have dropped by 66 %; and Whereas, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's Fifth Assessment Report recommended a global goal of achieving near zero greenhouse gas emissions or below, which is necessary to stabilize the global average temperature to avoid climate catastrophe; Now, therefore, Be it resolved by the House of Representatives: SECTION 1. The State of North Carolina should establish a transition from a fossil fuel -based economy to one hundred percent (100 %) clean renewable energy for all energy sector economies, by December 31, 2050, to avoid climate catastrophe, to promote job creation and economic growth, and to protect the earth for current and future generations from climate catastrophe. SECTION 2. This resolution is effective upon adoption. Page 2 House Resolution 401 -First Edition Atta(�;hrnent 5 U*- �*�* k Conservation of Native Wildflowers along Orange County Roadways WHEREAS, the natural beauty of native wildflowers in Orange County can be enjoyed by everyone, can attract guests, and benefit commerce, environmental health, and public well- being; and WHEREAS, enjoyment of native wildflowers is an occasion for all County and community leaders to unite for the benefit of everyone; and WHEREAS, many naturally beautiful species of native wildflowers, including Indian paintbrush, yellow wild indigo, and Carolina rose, are already prominently displayed along Orange County's state and county roadways, and WHEREAS, increasing the visibility of native wildflowers in Orange County is consistent with the vision of the 2030 Comprehensive Plan, and goals of many individuals, businesses, and community-based organizations; and WHEREAS, the presence of native wildflowers is essential to the fitness of native pollinator species necessary for productive and profitable farms and forests-, and WHEREAS, it is desirable and attainable to experience the beauty of many more native wildflowers by reducing the frequency and extent of roadside mowing; and WHEREAS, State Road 1006 (Orange Grove Road) and State Road 1114 (Buckhorn Road) are examples of roadways with pilot projects where native wildflowers have been conserved; NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Orange County Board of Commissioners does hereby commit and encourage others to commit to the conservation of roadside native wildflowers along the roadways in Orange County, and do hereby authorize the Commission for the Environment and County staff to work with the NC Department of Transportation, utility companies, and property owners to plan and implement roadside management practices that will increase the visibility and enjoyment of North Carolina native wildflowers. This the 19th day of June, 2012. Donna Baker, 6I to the Board Bernadette etie lissier, Chair Orange County Board of Commissioners F7�,P_-O IN Orange County Roadsides and Rights -of -Way Inventory Datasheet II Observer Name(s) Date: Road Name: Nearest Intersection (roadnames): Begin Latitude: End Latitude: Projection Evidence of herbicide use SR Number (optional) Begin Longitude End Longitude: datum, units Enter % cover for all species. 0 =not present. 1 = <25 %, 2= 25 -50 %, 3= 50 -75 %, 4 = >75 %. Site Indicator Species % Cover Comments (continue on back as needed) Aletris farinosa Andropogon gerardii Arnica acaulis Asclepias variegata Baptisia spp. Castilleja coccinea Clematis ochroleuca Coreopsis major Erianthus giganteus Liatris spp. Marshallia obovata Parthenium spp. Schizachyrium scoparium Silphium spp. Sorghastrum nutans Symphyotrichum grandiflorum Symphyotrichum patens Tephrosia virginiana Tripsacum dactyloides Rare plants (* = historical) Baptisia australis var. aberrans* Berberis canadensis Buchnera americana* Collinsonia tuberosa Desmodium ochroleucum* Dichanthelium annulum* Echinacea laevigata* Eupatorium godfreyanum Gillenia (Porteranthus) stipulata* Hexalectris spicata Liatris squarrulosa* Matelea decipiens* Panicum flexile* Parthenium ariculatum* Platanthera ciliaris Platanthera peramoena Pseudognaphalium helleri* Pycnanthemum torreyi Rhus michauxii* Ruellia purshiana Scutellaria leonardii* Thermopsis mollis* Additional Notable Species (list below or on reverse): t.t .(: °Iliirnn..........� Orange County Commission for the Environment CFE Committee Priorities (updated May 2017) Air and Energy Resources Committee (Becker, Parry, Crook, Newby, Nickodem) 1. Review Carrboro's Climate Action Plan and related actions and assess their applicability and feasibility to Orange County operations and residents. 2. Survey grants that other local governments in NC are leveraging to work on environmental and sustainability projects and assess their feasibility Orange County. 3. GHG Emissions Inventory — Consider whether it is feasible and worthwhile to conduct a comprehensive update of the County 2005 greenhouse gas emissions inventory. 4. Green Building — Exploring various recognition and incentive programs to help the County promote green construction /retrofits and weatherization. 5. Climate Change — Educate county residents about climate change, alternative energy sources and efficiency, and steps to reduce their (and County government's) carbon footprint. 6. Energy Efficiency — Partner with Piedmont Electric Membership Corp and /or Duke Energy to take advantage of USDA program for low- interest loans for energy efficient upgrades for its members /owners. Water Resources Committee (Cads, Ray, Thomas - Ambat, Kaiser, Gray) 1. Hydrilla Treatments — Continue to educate the public about hydrilla and other invasive species of concern; continue to monitor chemical treatments to assure they are not harmful to rivers. 2. Surface and Ground Water Quantity & Quality — Increase the collection of data for surface and ground water quantify and quality; increase public education so it might lead to more funding for data collection. 3. Water Supply — Continue to educate county residents about our water supply and what steps can be taken to improve /maintain quality and quantity of future water supplies. 4. Identify key entities and agencies involved in regulating and managing water resources. Land Resources Committee (Marzuola, O'Connor, Wegman, Gronback) 1. Food Waste - Work with Solid Waste Administration to support and encourage composting throughout Orange County. 2. Native Plant Habitats - Renew collaboration with NC Botanical Garden and others to identify significant roadside habitat for native plants; then ask NCDOT and other utilities to eliminate the use of herbicides to manage vegetation in those special roadside habitats. 3. Native Landscaping - With the goal of educating homeowners and businesses on reasons to choose a diversity of regionally native species for landscaping and other ways to promote biodiversity, we will seek out partners and try to make opportunities for education and funding known to the community. 4. Write articles for publication or posting related to the following topics: a. County Parks that are open and discussion of Summer Events; b. Explaining and highlighting environmental impact report of Durham - Orange Light Rail; C. The relation between land use and alternative energy generation. m \ � � o C*4 co � O CNI � E � O N W 0 co � 0 CNI 0 7 c r (D 2 7 I y (D � ¢ ± E . j \ '\ 2 y ¢ ¢ .$ / ¢ Fu 0--) % m O ± _ Eo AIo 80 a mm ns § § .eju .m % E- ¢ 2:1 cn k k k E C /cu 0 k ® k � $ t E @ L � � ° c % E ± -3 OL q_ / o 3 m 0 2 2 @ = % cu d d ¢ '% m r 0 / ) k k 2 = E % = m k 9 r m / 2 ® 2 = .0 E E_ k = § 3 E \ { m m § 7 @ ± LIO V_ \ o 70 p |M -I� @ / I § § % c � m E S � k 0 C 7 ® 2 2 q ƒ / E _0 § F § ƒ k CO / LL 3 LI0 em mnS- ijdS 0 7 c r (D 2 7 I y (D � ¢ ± E . j \ '\ 2 y ¢ ¢ .$ / ¢ Fu 0--) % m O ± 8 0 SuijdS _ Eo AIo 80 a mm ns § § .eju .m % E- ¢ cn k k k /cu 0 ¢ ® E2t % \ E @ e 8 0 SuijdS E % y ® (D 80 a mm ns % E- ¢ k k C ¢ % % e § � c % E_ o E U) = % d d 7 8 0 SuijdS The Movie "Hometown Habitat" Sunday June 18th, 3:00 pm, Carrboro Century Center You are invited to attend a free showing of Hometown Habitat - Stories of Bringing Nature Home. The narrative thread of 7 hometown habitat heroes is provided by renowned entomologist Douglas Tallamy, whose research, books and lectures about the use of non- native plants in landscaping sound the alarm about habitat and species loss. Tallamy challenges the notion that humans are here and nature is someplace else. Producer /director Catherine Zimmerman traveled around the country to visit hometown habitat heroes and film their inspiring stories of community commitment to conservation landscaping. Zimmerman shares their stories that re- awaken and re -define our relationship with nature. The message is that all of us have the power to support wildlife habitat and bring natural beauty to our patch of the Earth. The goal is to build a new army of habitat heroes and make natural landscaping the new landscaping norm. "Finally, a film that examines the critical role that native plants play and explores our land ethic and the need to make radical changes to increase biodiversity and find harmony with nature. This documentary should be included in every school curriculum." .....Heather Holm, author of Pollinators of Native Plants "Surely our gardens can be beautiful, but Tallamy has made us aware that they are also a crucial element in the ecological fabric of Nature herself. in a world that continues to plow virgin prairie and fell ancient forests, we can restore habitat and provide a haven for pollinators and all manner of vertebrates and invertebrates that are ultimately essential to our well- being. Doug provides the narrative thread which weaves together stories of remarkable people creating an array of beautiful gardens, that are also heroic habitats for insects, frogs and birds. Nature comes back, one garden at a time!" .....Panayoti Kelaidis, curator, Denver Botanic Gardens "Hometown Habitat is a powerful film that explains not only why we need to change our landscaping attitudes and practices, but how change- makers are doing exactly that. Anyone who cares about the environment needs to watch this excellent documentary." .....Kim Eierman, Founder of EcoBeneficial! Hometown Habitat, Stories of Bringing Nature Home is a thoughtfully produced, information- packed 90- minutes of ecological education and environmental inspiration by award- winning film maker, Catherine Zimmerman. Through portraits of a series of successful initiatives the film inspires us to get involved, promote native plants, and make a difference in our own landscapes and client projects. There is environmental degradation all around us and the prevalence of media coverage focuses on the negative acts and consequences. Hometown Habitat is breath of fresh air and is a story of hope. The projects featured are varied and include... hundred -acre and pocket garden landscapes. With the arrival of summer and vacation season, many of us are planning trips to National Parks and other vestiges of nature. Tallamy's point is that we shouldn't have to travel beyond our own yards and communities to find nature. With a few changes in attitude and application, we can make nature integral throughout our communities. Congratulations to Zimmerman and Tallamy on this valuable and much - needed project. .....Penny Lewis, Executive Director, Ecological Landscape Alliance Did you know that native plants - once established - do not require the use of chemicals such as herbicides and pesticides to maintain their beauty? Or that they don't require extra watering from our precious supply of potable water? Did you know that our native pollinators and birds generally prefer native plants for nectaring and seed? All of this and more is presented in the movie. Hometown Habitat is also available as a two -disk set. Disc one plays the full 90- minute film. Disc two plays the film in chapters for targeted audiences such as church congregations, homeowner associations, landscape designers, nurseries, city councils, parks and recreation divisions, and land developers. Five standard community screening licenses are also available for one -time screenings, with fees based on the number of people you expect to attend. A digital download or Blu -ray will be provided for one time use. Chapters: The Basics – Douglas Tallamy Ecosystem Services – Million Trees NYC Water Conservation – Habitat Hero Program Environmental Art Solutions – EcoArtists Sustainable Practices – Redefining the Horticulture Industry Restoration and Conservation Development – Steven Apfelbaum Interfaith Environmental Movement – Sacred Grounds Environmental Activism – Wild Ones House Party (1 -20 people) $35 Small Community Screening (1 -50 people) $125 Medium Community Screening (51 -100 people) $200 Large Community Screening (100+ people) $300 Screening with Admission Charge $500 The chapters can also be incorporated into school lesson plans focusing on sustainability and action. Also available are resources to assist in getting press coverage, increasing attendance and widening the interest in planting native plants. We want to go beyond the "choir" -folks already on board with natural landscaping —and help grow a new army of habitat heroes! One way to do this is to try partnering with another organization in your community not actively involved in gardening with native plants. It could be a library, congregation, Chamber of Commerce, school or community association. Screening events are an opportunity for you to inspire attendees to plant native plants and grow your organization's membership. Don't hesitate to contact Producer /Director Catherine Zimmerman at infogthemeadowproject.com with questions or help with your event. She is available to attend screenings, to do a meet and greet, introduce the film, lead a Q & A session or be part of a panel discussion following the screening. Ordering information is available at httDs:Hthemeadowl)roject.com/store/. Thank you for being part of the effort to raise awareness about native plants and conservation landscaping. Attac,,hrnent 10 DAVID T. FOSTER III dtfoster@charlotteOb5erver.com Solar povver advocates credit a generous state tax credit for making North Carolina second in the nation for total solar farm capacity. BY 1OYIN NICIPIAWSK3 Noy -Ja Carolina residents and businesses claimed a record quarter- billion dollars in tax credits for installing and financ- ing renewable energy projects last ye a I-. Tha ", ai ii oun -L assay well never be matched because the state legislature let the renewable energy subsidy expire and it is no longer available. But because taxp,-iyers can spread out the tax credit over five years, the claim amourits will not suddenly van- ish next year. The biggest users of the tax credit were insurance compa- nies and other corporations, although hundreds of private residents also claimed the bene- fit. The 2016 tax credit data was issued by the N.C. Department of Revenue this week. The $245 million in tax credits claimed last year repre- sent state income taxes that corporations and individuals were exempted from paying that year, and nearly doubles the renewable tax credits claimed the year before, $136.3 million. The total has been doubling nearly every year since 2007, when North Carolina's legisla- ture required electric utilities to use renewables. "I think you're loolcing at the peak," said Stephen Kalland, executive director of the N.C. Clean Energy Technology Cen- ter at N.C. State University. "My guess is, that's the max." The tax credits have been rising steeply for years as North Carolina vaulted to second place nationally for total solar energy capacity, behind just one state: California. One factor that likely contributed to last year's surge was that 2016 was the last year the tax credit was available, prompting developers of renew- able projects to accelerate their construction schedules to qual- ify for the benefit. The state's renewable tax credit was one of the most gene- rous in the nation, cutting the cost of a renewable energy pro- ject by 35 percent, up to $2.5 million per facility for busi- nesses. When coupled with a 30 percent federal tax credit, pro- ject developers could cut the cost of a renewable facility in half. North Carolina's Repub- SEE ENERGY, 10A A,( 0 wn state's solar industry. Industrial -sized solar farms have dramatically come down in cost and no longer require the subsidy to become profitable, he said. Strata is the state's largest solar farm devel- oper and employs about 300 people on staff and about 1,500 hourly -paid workers who erect the facilities across the state. vacant real estate. The list of 2016 bene- ficiaries of the tax credit spans 150 pages, showing that the credits were claimed for projects val- ued at a total $1.7 billion. Blue Cross and Blue Shield, the state's largest health insurer, claimed $37 million in 2016, the biggest - renewable tax " credit user for the year. Duke Energy Corp. claimed $23.9 million and Progress Energy (since renamed Duke Energy Progress) $7.5 million. Wells Fargo Bank claimed $13.2 million, the N.C. Farm Bureau Mutual In- surance Co. $9.3 million and Bank of America $7.7 million. The largest individual claim came from Strata Solar CEO Markus Wil- ty- :ale helm, who claimed $4.8 million. Much further down the -list was iPhone maker Apple, which operates data centers in the state and claimed $1.7 million. O'Hara said that insur- ance companies, banks and other corporations that claim the renewable tax credit are typically investors in solar farms and can claim the tax credit because they fi- nance the undertaking. Joel Olsen, CEO of 02 emc, a solar farm builder and operator about 20 miles north of Charlotte, said solar farms generate tax benefits to the state that far outweigh the tem- pogary loss of revenue from the tax credit. The projects operate for 30 years and pay local prop- solar, the tax credit has served its purpose," O'H- ara said. "It gave North Carolina an edge in grow- ing a solar industry." In addition to state and federal tax credits, the state's solar explosion was also driven by the 2007 state law mandating elec- tric utilities derive a por- tion of the electricity they sell from renewables. That year residents and busi- nesses claimed,just $440,137 in renewable tax credits. North Carolina quickly went from a smattering of small rooftop solar arrays, considered exotic and experimental a decade ago, to about 2,600 mega- watts of solar power to- day, most of that in utility - scale solar farms spraw- ling over farmland and erty taxes and state prop- erty taxes during that tithe. Olsen said that his com- pany put in a 20 -mega- watt solar farm in Mont- gomery County that's paying nearly $100,000 a year in property taxes. Before the project was built, the land was gener- ating less than $1,000 a year in county property taxes, he said. "Every dollar that's been spent here generates ... revenues for state -and local governments," Olsen said. John Murawski: 919 -829 -8932, @johnmurawski Attac,,hrnent 10 Eno N&vtaf Hope I ,and. cape Cc,,m. ifl riYlaiatio n Plan What is this plan? Local non - profit conservation organizations and governments from Orange, Chatham, Durham, and Wake Counties have collaborated to identify high - priority landscape corridors that connect a network of critical wildlife habitats within the Jordan Lake watershed and across the "land bridge" between New Hope Creek (Cape Fear River Basin) and the Eno River (Meuse River Basin). The plan will use scientific analyses to identify locations of important habitats and corridors to help guide conservation efforts on a landscape scale through actions that that are relevant and appropriate for the long -term persistence of native species and ecosystem services in a developing region, such as conservation agreements, adjustments to existing land use policies or ordinances, and land acquisition. ..�..�..�: ". Ili. . °�.�.. °..�.....�....�........0 Why plan for conservation? The loss of overall biological 1 /� % /i��'� , diversity in North Carolina — across all plant and animal groups — is largely caused by habitat loss and fragmentation. The CHa 'AM " N V Jordan Lake watershed is a prime example of an area under i intense development pressure, but with the potential to preserve and link existing habitats to ensure landscape ... 0 1 6 6 BMilxs connectivity within and between the Eno River and New Hope Creek watersheds. Existing protected areas are in danger of becoming further isolated by roadways and other causes of habitat fragmentation, and in the face of increasing threats and environmental changes, these natural areas require protected landscape corridors to maintain ecosystem functions and processes. Without these connections, the existing patchwork of existing conservation lands will become further isolated, threatening their value and contribution to the long -term persistence of species and ecosystem services. To ensure the persistence of species and ecosystem services in this developing region, a multi - pronged and proactive approach is necessary to coordinate collaborative conservation action in our communities. Proactive conservation planning secures benefits for protecting water quality, the future of native plants and wildlife, our local economy, and working farms and forests. 14abitzrt Connectivity is the Key Wildltlffe g,raduallly disappear from isolated or thin strips of opens space. A critical elernent of any conservation, development is to conserve habitats that are as wide as posMbie and are connected to adjacent natural areas. 1 c°onnecteaaPMbitaat i �ragmeraCMopera Space Who is paying for this? The NC Wildlife Resources Commission provides cost -share assistance to support local government planning projects that consider wildlife and natural resource conservation in land use and development planning, incentives, and ordinances. The Botanical Garden Foundation, Inc., is leading this project and welcomes your questions and comments. How do 1 find out more? If you are interested in learning more, please contact Johnny Randall or 919 - 962 -2380. You can also ask to be added to our listsery for periodic updates on the plan. The final project will be presented to a wide audience through public meetings, local government advisory boards, and to elected officials. n rcu M m,nn rui �a ru,,-riu lht� NC CLEAN ENERGY TECHNOLOGY CENTER 0RA1114GE NOR V k V ( `a"hROV.INA,, Media Release Collaboration Encourages Solar Energy Growth Local and State Affiliation Yields National Recognition Raleigh, N.C., May 11, 2017 - Orange County and the Towns of Chapel Hill and Carrboro, in collaboration with the NC Clean Energy Technology Center (NCCETC) at NC State University, have each earned a Bronze level designation into the SolSmart program, a U.S. Department of Energy initiative that provides official recognition and expert technical assistance to help communities expand solar energy development. Participation in SolSmart indicates these communities have taken steps to grow the local solar market by making solar more affordable for residents and businesses while encouraging new economic development and jobs. Funded by the U.S. Department of Energy SunShot Initiative, SolSmart recognizes communities that adopt programs and practices that reduce barriers and lower the costs of going solar. SolSmart is administered by a team of national experts led by The Solar Foundation and the International City /County Management Association. "We are especially pleased to have the opportunity to work in our own backyard, so to speak, and utilize our policy and training expertise to support these local clean energy efforts," said Steve Kalland, NCCETC's executive director. "It's great that these three communities had the interest and foresight to leverage their common interests to work cooperatively on this initiative and that the Solar Foundation selected the NC Clean Energy Technology Center to serve as their local technical advisors." SolSmart grants designation to cities and counties at the gold, silver and bronze levels. Designation is based on a system of prerequisites and points that shows communities have met uniform, national criteria for encouraging solar market growth. The three Bronze designees intend to continuing working towards silver and gold designation over the coming months To receive SolSmart designation, communities must take action to reduce solar "soft costs," which are non - hardware costs that can increase the time and money it takes to install a solar energy system. Reducing these costs leads to savings that are passed on to consumers. Examples of soft costs include planning and zoning; permitting, interconnection, and inspection; financing; customer acquisition and installation labor. As part of their bronze designations Orange County, Chapel Hill and Carrboro are collaborating with the NCCETC on two training workshops for local governments: New Trends in Solar Permitting and Inspections and Solar Fire and Safety. Each of the three communities have also developed an online checklist for solar permitting in their communities. "We are pleased to have the opportunity to work closely with Chapel Hill and Carrboro and hope to continue our mutual interests in supporting cleaner, safer communities," remarked Brennan Bouma, Orange County Sustainability Coordinator. SolSmart provides no -cost technical assistance from a team of local and national solar experts to help cities and counties achieve designation. The NCCETC is working with the three Triangle communities to continue their efforts to adopt programs and processes that will lower soft costs and encourage solar energy growth. A SolSmart designation is a signal that a community is "open for solar business," offering public recognition that the community is a favorable place for solar energy growth. SolSmart is open to all cities and counties across the nation. Other communities seeking to join the program can learn more at Sol ni.art.org. ..................... . . .................... . .................. . . . . .............. For more information: NC Clean Energy Technology Center: Shannon Helm, Senior Director, Communications slrannon lrehn( )ncsu e,c�,�; Orange County: Todd McGee, Community Relations Director � u. ,g ,C r( ;,�°, ;ml ; ,mI , , ,,g2X Town of Chapel Hill: John Richardson, Planning Manager for Sustainability ' °riclrardsorr �r>towrrofclra relhillor� Town of Carrboro: Trish McGuire, Planning Director 11, !!.i °, C�r)towm ofcarrboro or- ............ ............................... . ............................... About the NC Cleap Errr;;rg, 1 lurro ,r�71} „ rrtem„ The N.C. Clean Energy Technology Center, as part of the College of Engineering at North Carolina State University, advances a sustainable energy economy by educating, demonstrating and providing support for clean energy technologies, practices and policies. For more information about the N.C. Clean Energy Technology Center, visit: littp:// www .n�rccleatitecli,ficstr..edtr.. Twitter: @NCC1eanTech About the wrm of '12 .E! ;l mI;1., Chapel Hill, NC, is a multicultural university town that is home to UNC- Chapel Hill and a resident population of 59,000. The Town of Chapel Hill is committed to enhancing both organizational and community sustainability. Policy and programming efforts include a LEED -based ordinance to ensure that all new or renovated Town facilities uphold sustainable building practices, a green fleets policy to reduce vehicle emissions, a fare free transit system, electric vehicle public charging stations to encourage zero - emissions driving, a tree protection ordinance to preserve the Town's wooded character, a rural buffer for growth management, and districts for both watershed protection and resource conservation designed to maintain and enhance water quality. With more than 700 acres of parks and additional protected natural areas, Chapel Hill is sometimes referred to as town within a park. About the 'Town of Carrboro Carrboro, NC, is a diverse and vibrant town located in southern Orange County, with a resident population of about 21,000. Carrboro's collaboration with Orange County and Chapel Hill to participate in SolSmart is a continuation of the Town's long history and deep commitment to environmental protection and stewardship. Other renewable energy examples include supporting the Solarize Carrboro campaign, which provided a foundation for other Solarize campaigns in North Carolina, and hosting a community solar project at the Town Commons. More information on these and other clean energy topics is available at http: / /www.townofcarrboro.or�z/262 /Sustainabilitv-Ener v- Climate - Change. About 00range County Orange County, NC is home to more than 141,000 residents and represents the western end of the of North Carolina's vibrant Research Triangle. With its deep roots in agriculture balancing its thriving urban areas and the nation's oldest state university, Orange County has been helping to shape the commerce and political history of the region and nation since its founding in 1752. The County has long been committed to sustaining a high quality of life for both current and future generations with ongoing investments in a top -tier health system, a high quality transit network, watershed conservation, a network of public electric vehicle charging stations, and more than 3000 acres of protected lands.