Agenda Information Sheet
DEPARTMENT: Sustainability
ICM: Howard Martin, Interim City Manager
Date: August 1, 2016
SUBJECT
Title
Hold a discussion regarding Municipal Green Building and upcoming projects.
Body
BACKGROUND
The City of Denton adopted a Municipal Green Building Resolution and Policy in March of 2014. Since that time, two projects have been approved to move forward with LEED design certification, Fire Station 2 and Fire Station 4. The cost differential for seeking LEED certification was identified in the architect contract for each project. Other projects, of a smaller nature or different use, have been reviewed by Facilities and Sustainability staff and have pursued LEED Prerequisites as specified in our policy.
As we move forward with Fire Station 3 we have the opportunity to fully implement the Municipal Green Building Policy guidelines on a large project. We are working with a consultant on a feasibility study to identify potential LEED credits that can be achieved through site, design and mechanical components.
Due to the changes in the Building Code requirements, which the Committee heard last week, items that were LEED prerequisites are now going to be included in the code such as commissioning and lighting controls.
The intention moving forward is to present to Council a breakout of additional cost to achieve LEED certification. We will now also have a LEED checklist that identifies the low cost/ no cost LEED credits, as well as those that add to cost of overall project. This information will allow Council the benefit of choosing not only if we will seek LEED certification, but a level to try to achieve based on the draft checklist.
A second discussion that staff would like to initiate regards demolition of facilities by the City of Denton in conjunction with new building projects. The City currently has varied approaches to demolition. Sometimes City crews complete demolition and others a contractor is brought in to provide that service. Staff would like to discuss the possibility of recycling revenue from demolition that comes back to the City of Denton from a building project, by returning the revenue to that building project or fund. This could be used to help offset LEED expenses.
In instances where a contractor is performing demolition, we often realize contract savings due to the contractor keeping proceeds from the recyclables.
EXHIBITS
1. Green Building Resolution and Policy
2.
Respectfully submitted:
Katherine Barnett
Sustainability and Special Project Administrator