Discuss Environmentally Related Best Management Practices for Inclusion in City's Housing Assistance Policy

As the Board knows, the draft Work Plan includes an action item to develop a series of Best Management Practices (BMPs) that can be incorporated into the City's Housing Assistance Policy, currently being drafted by an Ad Hoc sub-committee of the Planning Commission.  The intent of this case is to consider in broader terms some potential topics of interest, such as stormwater practices and energy efficiency, and then identify more specific BMPs at a subsequent meeting. 

Based on Goal #4 of the Minimum Thresholds (attached) portion of the Housing Assistance Policy, there appear to be several logical topics to include.  Key areas the Board may wish to consider include stormwater management (including water conservation strategies), energy efficiency (lighting, appliances, etc), alternative energy options, walkability (amenities that encourage more active lifestyles), and resource efficiency (using less virgin materials, incorporating more reclaimed/reused materials).  This is not meant to limit the possibilities to the aforementioned topics, but rather to help initiate discussion on concepts the Board believes will ultimately benefit the community by encouraging environmentally sound projects.

The Board should be prepared to discuss various categories that will help frame the focus of specific BMPs that will ultimately be incorporated into the City's Housing Assistance Policy.

Based on discussion.