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2008 City Innovations Showcase
Environmental and 'Going Green' Programs
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Aerator Motor Conversion Project
City of Clearwater
Electrical costs at the City of Clearwater’s three advanced wastewater treatment plants (AWTP) have nearly doubled since 2003. This increase prompted development of the Water Pollution Control’s Motor Conversion Project. First the city reviewed savings data from the City of Dunedin’s Motor Conversion Project. Then Clearwater converted a 125 hp aerator motor at one AWTP to test the technology. The aerator previously drawing 82 amps now draws 56 amps. Clearwater plans to convert nine more motors at a cost of $93,900. The estimated savings is $100,000 to $125,000 annually, and approximately 30,750 gallons of fossil fuel per year will not be consumed to produce electricity.
Contact: John Milligan
Water Pollution Control Superintendent
Public Utilities Department
City of Clearwater
1650 N. Arcturas Avenue, Building C
Clearwater, FL 33765
Phone: (727) 562-4960, ext. 7248
E-mail: john.milligan@myclearwater.com
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Integrated Water Management Strategy
City of Clearwater
The City of Clearwater has developed an Integrated Water Management Strategy that will enable the city to manage the cost of water, conserve water resources, protect the environment and ensure water is available in the future. This strategy calls for becoming less reliant on more expensive water supplies coming from others. It includes conservation in homes and businesses, developing and expanding local water supplies, and providing reclaimed (or recycled) water for irrigation.
Contact: Tracy Mercer, Director of Utilities
City of Clearwater
P.O. Box 4748
Clearwater, FL 33758
Phone: (727) 562-4708
E-mail: heather.shell@myclearwater.com
Public Services Water Retention Projects
City of Clearwater
The City of Clearwater’s Glen Oaks Park, which opened in November 2006, combines recreation with stormwater management. The 31.54-acre city-owned site contains five ponds, four of which are wet detention areas and one is a dry detention area, totaling approximately 21 acres. The ponds provide drainage and natural pollutant filtering. The new drainage protects 78 homes from flooding, and the Stevenson Creek Estuary benefits from improved water quality. The new park has also created approximately 4.30 acres of vegetated wetland habitat. A similar project, the Kapok Wetlands Project, serves the same primary purpose – stormwater retention. The Public Services Department also holds Arbor Day Tree giveaway celebrations, does regular street sweeping and maintains the Adopt-a-Street program to enhance the beauty of Clearwater and help the city to stay green.
Contact: Gary Johnson, Director of Public Services
City of Clearwater
P.O. Box 4748
Clearwater, FL 33758
Phone: (727) 562-4708
E-mail: heather.shell@myclearwater.com
USF Environmental Project and Partnership
City of Clearwater
The University of South Florida (Tampa campus) offered a graduate-level course for the fall 2007 semester that uses the City of Clearwater as a case study. The course focuses on community-based research for sustainable urban development and was completed by 14 graduate-level students. The course, “Going for the Green: Enhancing Environmental Sustainability in Clearwater,” addressed many issues associated with the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement signed by the City of Clearwater. A goal from this partnership is to have one of the students complete a greenhouse gas inventory.
Contact: Mike Quillen, Director of Engineering
City of Clearwater
P.O. Box 4748
Clearwater, FL 33758
Phone: (727) 562-4708
E-mail: heather.shell@myclearwater.com
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Green in the Community
City of Coconut Creek
The City of Coconut Creek will convert to the new Single Stream Recycling Program, using a 64-gallon recycling cart, which means no more sorting. Coconut Creek will convert to light-emitting diodes traffic lights and motion-sensor lights in city buildings. Annually, the city celebrates Arbor Day with its free tree and butterfly plant giveaway program, great for shade and butterfly gardening. The city vehicles use biodiesel fuel, and the city’s Neighborhood Enhancement Grant and Landscape Award programs promote drought-tolerant planting and butterfly gardening. Future city plans include solar lighting for entrance ways and bus stops, a monthly green market and the use of energy-saving technology to reduce electricity use on vending machines by an average of 40 percent.
Contact: Scott Sundermeier, Director
Public Works Department
City of Coconut Creek
4800 W. Copans Road
Coconut Creek, FL 33063
Phone: (954) 973-6780
E-mail: jsundermeier@coconutcreek.net
Going Green in City Facilities
City of Coconut Creek
The City of Coconut Creek uses paper products and cleaning materials that either are Green Seal certified, recyclable or environmentally friendly. To use less water, the city installed low-flow toilets, waterless urinals and rain-water collection systems. Many departments are going paperless by uploading more functions/forms online. In 2005, Coconut Creek implemented flexible work schedules and a four-day workweek at City Hall, saving 20 percent of commuter time and energy. Offices are equipped with recycling bins and energy-efficient personal computers. In the near future, the city will install improved air infiltration systems and provide more live green plants in city-owned buildings.
Contact: Scott Sundermeier, Director
Public Works Department
City of Coconut Creek
4800 W. Copans Road
Coconut Creek, FL 33063
Phone: (954) 973-6780
E-mail: jsundermeier@coconutcreek.net
Utilities Going Green
City of Coconut Creek
The City of Coconut Creek has purchased a pre-rinse sprayer to replace high-usage fixtures at restaurants in the city’s service area, saving 2 million gallons of water per year. Fifty percent of the funding came from a South Florida Water Management District grant. Chlorination at the city’s water tank reduces pump run time, which reduces energy consumption. In areas where tree canopies uproot sidewalks, the city is implementing a rubberized sidewalks program to reduce tree and root removal. Coconut Creek has placed stormwater pollution barriers at high-litter locations to protect lakes and canals. Citrus based degreasers replaced petroleum-based products.
Contact: Raj Verma, Director of Utilities and Engineering
City of Coconut Creek
4800 W. Copans Road
Coconut Creek, FL 33063
Phone: (954) 973-6786
E-mail: rverma@coconutcreek.net
Water Conservation Rebate Program
City of DeLand
The City of DeLand instituted a water conservation rebate program for all new residential construction and residential renovations. Based on the Florida Water Star program, builders of single-family homes may receive a 15-percent rebate on water and sewer impact fees when they have met conservation criteria related to landscaping, landscape irrigation and indoor conservation measures. Criteria for landscaping relate to use of natural or existing vegetation. Credit also is awarded for low-volume irrigation and low or no irrigation. A third area of credit is for the use of interior appliances that are low water flow. Credit also is available for interior fixtures such as hot water tanks that are energy efficient and meet the Energy Star criteria.
Contact: Keith Riger, P.E., Public Service Director
Public Service Department
City of DeLand
120 S. Florida Avenue
DeLand, FL 32720
Phone: (386) 740-5813
E-mail: rigerk@deland.org
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Community Center LEED Certified
City of Dunedin
The 43,000-square-foot Dunedin Community Center opened in January 2007. The facility is a Silver-certified Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) project. To achieve LEED status, numerous systems were evaluated and materials carefully selected. The facility incorporated recycling processes that emphasize reduced pollution, increased energy efficiency, enhanced indoor-air quality and reduced long-term maintenance. Environmental optimization included enhanced energy performance with glass, insulation and sun control for an annual savings of at least $35,000 per year, reduced water usage by more than 20 percent, achieved zero light pollution, recycled more than 70 percent of the construction waste, and used recycled building materials.
Contact: Tom Burke
Project Manager
City of Dunedin
P.O. Box 1348
Dunedin, FL 34697-1348
Phone: (727) 298-3174
E-mail: tburke@dunedinfl.net
Green Local Government Program
City of Dunedin
The City of Dunedin used the Florida Green Building Coalition Green Local Government Standard as a tool to evaluate and compile the environmental practices, incentives, ordinances and educational activities that are currently in place in the city. The standard also provided a framework to prioritize and incorporate additional “green” activities and programs in the future. This tool was used because it is user friendly and comprehensive. As a result of this evaluation, the City of Dunedin is the fourth local government to receive the designation as a “green local government” in Florida. The city also expanded its curbside collection of large appliances to include electronics. Dunedin has collected and recycled more than 50,000 pounds of e-waste through this program.
Contact: Valerie Lane
City of Dunedin
P.O. Box 1348
Dunedin, FL 34697-1348
Phone: (727) 298-3215, ext. 24
E-mail: vlane@dunedinfl.net
LED Traffic Signal Conversion
City of Dunedin
The City of Dunedin converted 23 signalized intersections to light-emitting diodes (LED). Electrical savings are averaging $23,000 per year with an estimated two-year payback period. LED lamps last as long as 100,000 hours and use just 12 watts to operate, compared to 150 watts for incandescent lamps that have a lifespan of 8,000 hours. LEDs require less frequent lamp replacements and fewer lane closures. Brighter LED lamps improve traffic signal visibility in inclement weather.
Contact: Douglas Hutchens
City of Dunedin
P.O. Box 1348
Dunedin, FL 34697-1348
Phone: (727) 298-3005
E-mail: dhutchens@dunedinfl.net
Sustainability Seminar Series
City of Dunedin
As a certified “green” city, Dunedin uses many techniques to minimize the environmental impacts of the local government’s daily functions. For the city to be truly sustainable, city residents must also be aware of their impact on the environment and how they can help preserve and protect our natural resources. The city has initiated the Sustainability Seminar Series to teach residents conservation techniques with the goal of encouraging changes in behavior. Seminar topics include energy conservation, recycling, composting, saving water and more. Residents are encouraged to suggest topics for seminars so that they receive the information and assistance they want and need. There is a follow-up process for each seminar to determine what, if any, barriers exist to changing behavior and how effective the seminars are in fostering that change.
Contact: Valerie Lane
City of Dunedin
P.O. Box 1348
Dunedin, FL 34697-1348
Phone: (727) 298-3215, ext. 24
E-mail: vlane@dunedinfl.net
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Compact Fluorescent Lamp Program
City of Gainesville
Through the Compact Fluorescent Lamp Program (CFL), the City of Gainesville aimed to distribute 25,000 CFLs to customers to replace incandescent bulbs in their homes by September 30, 2007. This goal was exceeded by the end of March 2007, thanks to customer enthusiasm and participation. To date, approximately 50,000 CFLs were purchased or directly installed as a part of this program. In addition, Gainesville Regional Utilities participated in three “direct install” pilot projects this year. A thread of consistency for these programs was that participants were required to sign a pledge card upon receiving the CFLs in which they commit to replacing lighting only with CFLs in the future. The three projects included a local neighborhood program in East Gainesville, a University of Florida student housing project and a high school student competition to challenge students to install CFLs for friends and family in Gainesville.
Contact: Katie Weitekamp
City of Gainesville
301 S.E. 4th Avenue
Gainesville, FL 32614
Phone: (352) 393-1486
E-mail: weitekampkj@gru.com
Energy and Water Efficiency Team
City of Gainesville
The City of Gainesville has adopted a policy of maximum conservation. To further this goal, a self-directed work team was chartered to study how the city uses resources in its own facilities. The Energy and Water Efficiency Team looks at the energy and water consumption of city facilities with the intention of establishing baselines and well-thought-out reduction targets.
Contact: Katie Weitekamp
City of Gainesville
301 S.E. 4th Avenue
Gainesville, FL 32614
Phone: (352) 393-1486
E-mail: weitekampkj@gru.com
Energy Efficiency Plan
City of Gainesville
The Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) has seen measurable results after implementing its energy efficiency plan. At the end of FY 2007, the energy efficiency plan (including both business and residential programs) resulted in 2,508.7 kW of demand (peak) savings and 15,091.1 MWh of energy (total usage) savings, enough energy to power 1,323 homes for a year. These savings equate to 6,770.95 (tons) of carbon dioxide per year or removing 1,507 cars from the road or saving 792,734 gallons of gasoline. The cornerstone is the Customized Business Rebate program, accounting for more than 40 percent of total demand and energy savings, 1.1 MW and 6,322 MWh.
Contact: Katie Weitekamp
City of Gainesville
301 S.E. 4th Avenue
Gainesville, FL 32614
Phone: (352) 393-1486
E-mail: weitekampkj@gru.com
Reality Show Promotes Energy Efficiency
City of Gainesville
The City of Gainesville has teamed with WCJB TV 20 and a local heating and air company to create a home makeover show that raises public awareness about energy efficiency. The winner could receive up to $100,000 in sponsor-donated appliances and other energy-efficiency upgrades. Applicants will be attempting to correct energy-inefficiency problems in their homes, such as inadequate attic insulation, leaky ducts or old inefficient air-conditioning systems. The one home selected by the voters will be eligible for new appliances and repairs up to $100,000 in value. The winner will benefit not only by receiving the upgrades, but by the year-round savings realized through a reduced energy bill.
Contact: Katie Weitekamp
City of Gainesville
301 S.E. 4th Avenue
Gainesville, FL 32614
Phone: (352) 393-1486
E-mail: weitekampkj@gru.com
Room AC Trade-In Program
City of Gainesville
The Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) partnered with a home-improvement store to offer energy-efficient room air-conditioning units to GRU electric customers in June 2007. Customers were asked to bring in their old, inefficient units for recycling. They paid a $20 fee for the brand-new unit. GRU worked with staff from the City of Gainesville Public Works Department and the store to exchange 111 inefficient room AC units within two hours. The total kWh reduction is 18.6.
Contact: Katie Weitekamp
City of Gainesville
301 S.E. 4th Avenue
Gainesville, FL 32614
Phone: (352) 393-1486
E-mail: weitekampkj@gru.com
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Solar Fact Sheet
City of Gainesville
A large 250 kW photovoltaic system (PV system) is currently in the planning stages for the City of Gainesville. A large discount retailer donated land, and about 30 percent of the capital cost, or up to $1 million, for the installation of a 250 kW PV system at a store proposed near U.S. 441 and NW 53 Avenue. This would be the largest PV system in North Florida and would be owned and maintained by a third-party solar vendor. Once the system is constructed, all energy produced would go to Gainesville Regional Utilities customers – or enough energy to power 30 homes for a year. In addition, through the solar rebate program, GRU has provided more than $100,000 in incentives for 20 PV systems. These systems total 103 kW.
Contact: Katie Weitekamp
City of Gainesville
301 S.E. 4th Avenue
Gainesville, FL 32614
Phone: (352) 393-1486
E-mail: weitekampkj@gru.com
East Volusia Regional Water Authority – Utility Co-op
Cities of Holly Hill, Daytona Beach, and South Daytona
The cities of Holly Hill, Daytona Beach and South Daytona created the East Volusia Regional Water Authority to emphasize awareness of the need to conserve and protect water resources in the respective cities and Volusia County through technical planning. Focus is centered on water supply limitations of the Floridan aquifer system in the eastern basin and its causes, such as saline-water intrusion and draw downs that may impact wetlands and flows to natural springs.
Contact: Joseph Forte, City Manager
1065 Ridgewood Avenue
City of Holly Hill
Holly Hill, FL 32117
Phone: (386) 248-9425
E-mail: jforte@hollyhillfl.org
Citywide Tree Canopy Replacement Project
City of Hollywood
The City of Hollywood Canopy Replacement Project was created to purchase, install and replace canopy trees destroyed during hurricane seasons, thereby enhancing community aesthetics and public property shading citywide. The Department of Public Works staff chooses the appropriate Florida grade No. 1 standard species and the planting site, as well as oversees the trees’ maintenance. In 2007, 384 replacement canopy trees were planted to assist in temperature and air-pollution reduction. Hollywood has been recognized as a Tree City USA by the National Arbor Day Foundation for 28 consecutive years for this project and other landscape initiatives citywide.
Contact: Greg Turek, Director
Department of Public Works
City of Hollywood
1600 S. Park Road
Hollywood, FL 33021
Phone: (954) 967-4526
E-mail: gturek@hollywoodfl.org
Energy Star Housing Rehabilitation Program
City of Hollywood
The City of Hollywood applied the Energy Star concept in partnership with the city Housing Rehabilitation Program. Energy Star focuses on assisting businesses and individuals to save money and protect the environment. The Housing Rehabilitation Program assists lower-to-moderate income families with the repair and/or replacement of home necessities such as insulation, lighting and appliances to enhance savings potential and the use of energy efficient products. The Energy Star Housing Rehabilitation Program couples two successful programs into an initiative that reduces energy use and provides aid to families for lasting financial and environmental benefits.
Contact: Neal Herst, Director
Department of Housing and Community Redevelopment
City of Hollywood
2500 Hollywood Boulevard, Suite 314
Hollywood, FL 33022
Phone: (954) 921-3271
E-mail: nherst@hollywoodfl.org
Hollywood Green Team Advisory Committee
City of Hollywood
The City of Hollywood Green Team Advisory Committee, a collaboration of 13 regular members and seven ex-officio members from government, private, public and individual sectors, was created to guide the city’s efforts to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The committee was created by a resolution of the mayor and City Commission in September 2006 to assist the commission in identifying climate protection targets and recommending actions to help achieve those targets. The committee has recommended U.S. Green Building Council Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Green Building Rating System Certification for new construction and major renovation projects and residential recycling goals citywide.
Contact: Lorie Mertens-Black, Director
Intergovernmental Affairs
City of Hollywood
2600 Hollywood Boulevard, Suite 419
Hollywood, FL 33020
Phone: (954) 921-3201
E-mail: lmertens-black@hollywoodfl.org
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Global Hollywood Strategic Network
City of Hollywood
The City of Hollywood created the employee-based Global Hollywood Strategic Network to identify and implement environmental initiatives in each department and office. The network’s mission is to promote the practice of efficient use of natural resources in city programs, events and services through collaborative efforts of employees, customers and the Green Team citizens advisory group. The network meets monthly to identify areas of focus, such as recycling, public education and transportation. Accomplishments include providing weekly green tips to city employees via e-mail, distributing numerous water-conservation kits to residents and promoting the use of solar-powered parking meters.
Contact: Joel Wasserman, Network Chair
City of Hollywood
3441 Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood, FL 33021
Phone: (954) 967-4455
E-mail: jwasserman@hollywoodfl.org
Solar Powered Multi-Space Master Meters
City of Hollywood
The City of Hollywood is committed to providing a sustainable solar future. In 1995, Hollywood replaced some of its existing parking meters with solar-powered multi-space master meters including real time monthly credit card processing. Solar-powered meters reduce carbon dioxide emissions, eliminate the need for ground wiring construction, increase energy conservation efficiency, and reduce man-hours required for maintenance and revenue collection. Currently, 88 solar-powered meters are installed. An additional 179 solar-powered meters will be purchased and installed citywide. Upon completion, each unit will be programmed and monitored to function with the proposed citywide Wi-Fi system.
Contact: Bonnie Johnston, Director
Office of Parking Services
City of Hollywood
2600 Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood, FL 33020
Phone: (954) 921-3535
E-mail: bjohnston@hollywoodfl.org
Stormwater Monitoring and Modeling
City of Kissimmee
The City of Kissimmee is dedicated to keeping water clean so future generations can enjoy the excellent fishing and boating in Lake Tohopekaliga. That was the city’s goal when it funded its stormwater utility. With the fees collected from this utility and assistance from partners in the South Florida Water Management District and Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Kissimmee has installed 20 automatic water-quality sampling stations in the streams that flow to Lake Toho. The greatest benefit of this project is the dollars saved by knowing precisely where to construct pollutant-reduction devices to obtain the greatest removals.
Contact: Nagel Altrui, Stormwater Utility Manager
Public Works and Engineering
City of Kissimmee
101 N. Church Street, Suite 301
Kissimmee, FL 34741
Phone: (407) 518-2536
E-mail: naltrui@kissimmee.org
Florida Friendly Landscape Seminar
City of Melbourne
To help get the word out about new water-conservation rules, the City of Melbourne often works on projects with the Brevard Water Resources Conservation Team. Recently, this included the popular Florida Friendly Landscape Seminar held in March 2007. The program is conducted annually and often is attended by more than 500 residents. Speakers present information on irrigation rules, good irrigation practices and other positive environmental practices such as integrated pest management, native and Florida-friendly plants, and more. During breaks, participants visit environmental booths. The conservation team includes the cities of Melbourne, Palm Bay, Cocoa and Titusville, and Brevard County Utility Services.
Contact: Jennifer G. Wilster
Environmental Community Outreach Manager
Public Works and Utilities Department
2885 Harper Road
Melbourne, FL 32904
Phone: (321) 674-5761
E-mail: jwilster@melbourneflorida.org
Hybrid Added to Fleet
City of Melbourne
The City of Melbourne Public Works and Utilities Department has a green addition to its fleet. The city recently purchased a Saturn Vue SUV hybrid, which gets 20-percent better fuel efficiency than the standard Vue. The vehicle is being used to evaluate the performance and cost effectiveness of future purchases. This SUV, outfitted with the slogan “Harbor City Hybrid – Think Green,” will be driven by water production lab staff to collect samples throughout the distribution system. City traffic optimizes the fuel savings of hybrids.
Contact: Jennifer G. Wilster
Environmental Community Outreach Manager
Public Works and Utilities Department
City of Melbourne
2885 Harper Road
Melbourne, FL 32904
Phone: (321) 674-5761
E-mail: jwilster@melbourneflorida.org
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Software Assists Wastewater Collection Division
City of Melbourne
To accurately map the city’s wastewater collection infrastructure, Melbourne is using the camera van’s new pipeline inspection software, along with a hand-held global positioning system (GPS) unit. This effort is saving time and money and is making jobs easier. The pipeline inspection reporting system has features that allow for integration with the city’s geographic information system (GIS). In conjunction with this effort, crews are using the GPS unit to map all of the city’s 6,000 manholes. They enter the location and attributes into the hand-held unit for uploading into the city’s GIS database. The unit will also be used to locate reuse meters, sewer force mains, backwater valves and force main valves. Information from the camera-van software and the hand-held unit is entered into the GIS system, working together to give the city an accurate GIS mapping system and allowing locaters to easily find whatever they are looking for.
Contact: Jennifer G. Wilster
Environmental Community Outreach Manager
Public Works and Utilities Department
City of Melbourne
2885 Harper Road
Melbourne, FL 32904
Phone: (321) 674-5761
E-mail: jwilster@melbourneflorida.org
Green Buildings
City of Miami
The City of Miami is promoting green buildings by developing financial incentives to build green, changing city codes and regulations, and building capacity and awareness. Miami has adopted the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System for buildings because it is comprehensive and provides for independent verification. The city also is renovating its first city building to LEED Silver, a pilot project called Miami Green Lab. Miami Green Lab will be a demonstration and resource center to help the building industry and general community learn about green buildings.
Contact: Edith McClintock
Environmental Programs Manager
Miami Sustainable Initiatives
444 S.W. 2nd Avenue
Miami, FL 33130
Phone: (305) 416-1539
E-mail: emcclintock@miamigov.com
Commitment to “Go Green”
City of North Port
North Port has made many efforts to “go green” since 2007, including purchasing hybrid vehicles, creating an Environmental Services Division and adopting a resolution to work toward becoming a “Green City.” The city added its first Ford Escape hybrid to the city’s fleet in 2007 and later purchased three more hybrid vehicles at a discounted price. The vehicles average nearly 30 mpg as compared to the non-hybrid models in the city fleet that average 22 mpg. In addition, North Port created an Environmental Services Division, which is responsible for the environmental assessment of proposed projects within the city, as well as providing public education and outreach community programs. The division works with state and regional agencies to create management plans and enforce state environmental regulations. Also, the North Port City Commission adopted a resolution to begin the process of becoming a Florida “Green City” through the Florida Green Building Coalition. This designation requires active participation and commitment within all city departments in setting an example of excellence in environmental performance and sustainability for the entire community. City departments will assess current functions and implement new policies and actions that incorporate sound environmental principles.
Contact: Teresa Payne, Environmental Specialist
City of North Port
Engineering Department
4970 City Hall Boulevard
North Port, FL 34286
Phone: (941) 429-7086
E-mail: tpayne@cityofnorthport.com
Environmental Education and Outreach
City of North Port
North Port has launched several new educational outreach programs for residents, including hosting booths at community events and providing the public with educational material. Last November, the city’s Solid Waste Division hosted a booth to promote recycling at Toledo Blade Elementary School’s Science Night, and the city’s Utilities Department hosted a booth to promote water conservation. Also, in an effort to provide educational material to the general public about environmental protection, North Port added two brochure holders on the first and second floors of City Hall. To cut down significantly on the cost of creating new brochures, the city is working with local and state agencies to gather their brochures. On the back of each brochure, the city places a sticker that includes contact information for its Environmental Services Division. The brochures highlight endangered and protected species, wetland protection, air quality and more. The Utilities Department does similar techniques using a stamp and brochures from the local water management district and other agencies. The city also offers environmental information on its Web site, such as “tips on how to save gas” recently posted by the Fleet Division.
Contact: Teresa Payne, Environmental Specialist
City of North Port
Engineering Department
4970 City Hall Boulevard
North Port, FL 34286
Phone: (941) 429-7086
E-mail: tpayne@cityofnorthport.com
Environmental Festival
City of North Port
The City of North Port’s first Second Nature Environmental Festival featured booths from the Florida Division of Forestry, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the city’s environmental specialist and arborist, Sarasota County, People For Trees, Inc., the Warm Mineral Springs Archeologist Society and more. Hosted in January 2008 at the city’s new nature park, more than 1,000 residents listened to music, played games, ate food and learned about ways to protect the environment.
Contact: Bill Ward
Parks and Recreation Division Manager
City of North Port
City Manager’s Office
4970 City Hall Boulevard
North Port, FL 34286
Phone: (941) 429-7207
E-mail: bward@cityofnorthport.com
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Focus on Trees
City of North Port
In June 2007, the City of North Port hired an arborist who provides all daily inspections for residential and commercial job sites. He also has been training other departments in basic tree care, hazard tree assessment and more, and has helped in the rewrite of the city’s new tree ordinance and landscaping regulation ordinance, which created the city’s first street tree program. The city also celebrated Florida Arbor Day at Lamarque Elementary School by planting two trees, and hosted an Arbor Day poster contest for the fourth and fifth graders at the school. The posters, hung in the City Hall lobby, depict the children’s vision of a tree and how trees benefit them.
Contact: Scott Alexander, City Arborist
City of North Port
Building Department
4970 City Hall Boulevard
North Port, FL 34286
Phone: (941) 429-7044
E-mail: salexander@cityofnorthport.com
“Green” Development
City of North Port
A residential development, West Villages, consists of approximately 8,000 acres of annexed land located on the western side of North Port and is designated by the city as having a Village Land Use Classification. All developments within the West Villages are required to comply with the U.S. Green Building Council Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and with Low Impact Development (LID) standards. A second residential area, Gran Paradiso, is under way. The first commercial development of 55 acres has been approved, which will include a grocery store and fire station.
Contact: Sam Jones, Planning Director
Planning Department
City of North Port
4970 City Center Boulevard
North Port, FL 34286
Phone: (941) 429-7159
E-mail: sjones@cityofnorthport.com
Hazardous Waste Collection
City of North Port
The City of North Port, in conjunction with Sarasota County Hazardous Waste Management, offered a free community collection event March 2007. The event was for residential-generated waste only. More waste was collected than ever before. The types of items accepted included aerosol cans, paint thinners and solvents, automotive products, adhesives and glues, paint, cleaners, pool chemicals, fertilizers, weed killer, mercury, household fire extinguishers and electronics. North Port Fire Rescue also collected sharps or needles through their “Needle Disposal Program.”
Contact: William J. Taaffe, Fire Rescue Chief
Fire Rescue District
City of North Port
4980 City Center Boulevard
North Port, FL 34286
Phone: (941) 240-8150
E-mail: wtaaffe@cityofnorthport.com
Protecting Myakka Wild and Scenic River
City of North Port
In September 2007, the North Port City Commission approved an agreement with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Florida Department of Community Affairs for the protection of the Wild and Scenic section of the Myakka River that lies within the city. This agreement established interagency coordination in regulating proposed development activities within the Myakka River Protection Zone, in accordance with the Myakka Wild and Scenic Designation and Preservation Act. The city will adopt an ordinance to enforce the regulation of activities within the Myakka River Protection Zone, and require interagency review of all development proposed in the city.
Contact: Teresa Payne Environmental Specialist
City of North Port
Engineering Department
4970 City Hall Boulevard
North Port, FL 34286
Phone: (941) 429-7086
E-mail: tpayne@cityofnorthport.com
Water Conservation Efforts
City of North Port
The North Port Utilities Department has implemented a conservation tiered-rate structure designed to encourage water conservation. As financial savings are a strong incentive for conservation, the city’s rate structure has been designed to increase as more water is used. The city’s water conservation efforts also include a toilet rebate program in which the city offers up to a $100 rebate per toilet to utility customers who replace their existing high-volume toilets with low-flow toilets. More than 500 toilets have been replaced in less than 18 months. In addition, North Port Utilities staff regularly speaks to schools and neighborhood groups about water conservation. During a recent presentation for Cranberry Elementary School’s Environmental Club, students were encouraged to start a school-wide program to conserve water, and they will be asking their families to use less water at home.
Contact: Peggy Parillo, Public Relations Supervisor
Utilities Department
City of North Port
6644 Price Boulevard
North Port, FL 34291
Phone: (941) 240-8000
E-mail: mparillo@cityofnorthport.com
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Water Reuse System Expansion
City of North Port
North Port recently partnered with the Southwest Florida Water Management District about a Reuse Master Plan that will provide direction for the expansion of the water reuse system. Expansion of this supply will conserve the city’s potable supply for drinking and other household uses. The plan will determine the amount of reuse water that will be available over the next 20 years as expansion of the city’s wastewater-treatment system occurs and identify potential future reuse customers. This expansion includes maximizing reuse from the construction of two future wastewater treatment facilities and expansion of the city’s current wastewater treatment plant.
Contact: Cindi Mick, Utilities Director
Utilities Department
City of North Port
6644 Price Boulevard
North Port, FL 34291
Phone: (941) 240-8000
E-mail: cmick@cityofnorthport.com
Federal Highway Mixed-Use Business and Entertainment Overlay District
Town of Oakland Park
As a part of ongoing redevelopment efforts throughout the City of Oakland Park, the Federal Highway Mixed-Use Business and Entertainment Overlay District was created to redevelop a portion of a major traffic corridor within the city and provide incentives for “green” building construction. The city’s first project in the district, the Alexan, will be a premier mixed-use development. The project will feature offices, retail and residences in an upscale-designed setting with a public plaza along U.S. 1. The project is seeking U.S. Green Building Council Gold-level Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System certification.
Contact: Justin Proffitt, Planner
City of Oakland Park
3650 N.E. 12 Avenue
Oakland Park, FL 33334
Phone: (954) 630-4339
E-mail: justinp@oaklandparkfl.org
Saving Our Trees
City of Oldsmar
The Oldsmar City Council had approved a $500,000 budget for streetscaping a blighted downtown redevelopment area. Work was already in progress to bring it up to standards when a city engineering technician anticipated possible repercussions if plans were implemented to remove a row of mature oak trees for road construction. A swift resolution was needed. The engineering technician saved the project and avoided costly construction delays by devising an alternate plan, shifting the road nine feet, landscaping and meandering a sidewalk around the trees to fill in the space. The cost of adding landscaping was absorbed by Leisure Services.
Contact: John Mulvihill, Public Works Director
Public Works Department
City of Oldsmar
100 State Street W.
Oldsmar, FL 34677
Phone: (813) 749-1134
E-mail: jmulvihill@ci.oldsmar.fl.us
Green Works
City of Orlando
In 2007, the City of Orlando introduced Green Works Orlando, the city’s first comprehensive plan to protect natural resources, encourage environmentally friendly lifestyles and business practices, and engage everyone who lives, works and visits Central Florida in the effort to “go green.” Green Works Orlando has five “pillars” that serve as the operational foundation of the plan. They are:
Energy Efficiencies and Green Buildings
Transportation
Sustainable Infrastructure and Conservations
Green Spaces
Advocacy and Education
The City of Orlando is embracing environmental sustainability and social responsibility into its collective organizational and community development strategies. For more information on Green Works Orlando, visit www.cityoforlando.net.
Contact: Christian Oleck, Economic Development Manager, LEED AP
Economic Development Department – Office of the Director
City of Orlando
400 S. Orange Avenue, 6th Floor
P.O. Box 4990
Orlando, FL 32802-4990
Phone: (407) 246-3783
E-mail: christian.oleck@cityoforlando.net
WaterFest
City of Palm Bay
Educating the public about the benefits of water and the importance of conservation is an important role of the Utilities Department. WaterFest, a family-oriented event focused on the benefits of municipal water, allows the department to express its appreciation to customers and educate the public. Educational booths provide information on xeriscape landscaping, low-flow fixtures, leak detection, reading water meters, boater safety and water recreation. A designated children’s area features waterslides, jump houses, educational games and crafts. In addition, the Florida Institute of Technology’s Science Exploration at Sea mobile laboratory taught children about water quality, waves and the ocean’s environment. Attendance for WaterFest 2007 tripled from the previous year.
Contact: Jason Yarborough, Utilities Director
Palm Bay Utilities Department
Administration Office
City of Palm Bay
250 Osmosis Drive, S.E.
Palm Bay, FL 32909
Phone: (321) 952-3410
E-mail: yarboj@pbfl.org
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Green Advisory Board
City of Pembroke Pines
The Pembroke Pines City Commission recently created the city’s first green advisory board. The Green City Advisory Board advises the City Commission on matters related to environmental and “green” initiatives in an effort to promote environmental awareness in the city. The advisory board also provides education and information about local, state and national environmental initiatives, and consults with local business and residents in an effort to promote those initiatives in the city.
Contact: Joe McLaughlin, PE, City Engineer
Department Public Services
City of Pembroke Pines
10100 Pines Boulevard
Pembroke Pines, FL 33026
Phone: (954) 450-6856
E-mail: jmclaughlin@ppines.com
Green Projects
City of Pembroke Pines
The City of Pembroke Pines has developed many projects in the movement to go “green.” The city established the nation’s second Wetlands Bank to maintain, protect and preserve 450 acres of wetlands that will be developed as a diverse multi-habitat ecosystem. Additionally, the city has signed the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement, making a commitment to reduce greenhouse emissions and shrink the carbon footprint of the city. The City Commission has also begun to make changes to city building codes to require that municipal buildings be Leadership in Energy Environmental Design (LEED) certified. And in 2007, Pembroke Pines purchased its first hybrid vehicle and has plans to increase the hybrid fleet substantially in coming years.
Contact: Gordon J. Keibler, Assistant City Manager
City of Pembroke Pines
10100 Pines Boulevard
Pembroke Pines, FL 33026
Phone: (954) 431-4500
E-mail: gkeibler@ppines.com
Alternative Fuels
City of Plantation
The City of Plantation has heavy-duty trucks that are powered by both gasoline and propane gas, and by propane gas alone. The city has used these trucks for 20 years, but it currently is looking to use alternative fuels. Plantation recently tested a propane-powered lawn mower and is considering a purchase in the future. The city is also sampling a fuel additive that claims to increase performance, reduce fuel consumption by 10 percent in both gasoline and diesel engines, reduce emissions and extend engine life. Testing time is one year.
Contact: Frank DeCelles, Public Works Director
City of Plantation
400 N.W. 73rd Avenue
Plantation, FL 33317
Phone: (954) 452-2535
E-mail: fdecelles@plantation.org
Hardscape Initiatives
City of Plantation
The City of Plantation’s Multi-Use Recreational Trail was initiated in 2004 as a means of connecting streets and neighbors via foot and bike traffic. This project features trail heads and stop spots and offers an alternative method of travel. The Paver Pathways project incorporated pavers whenever possible as an alternative to impervious paving materials. The city purchases recycled benches and trash receptacles as an alternative to wood products.
Contact: Jeffery Siegel, Landscape Architect
City of Plantation
400 N.W. 73rd Avenue
Plantation, FL 33317
Phone: (954) 797-2246
E-mail: jsiegel@plantation.org
Horticultural Recycling Center
City of Plantation
The City of Plantation built and maintains a Horticultural Recycling Center where residents can drop off tree trimmings and all natural foliage. That plant material is then mulched and made available to residents. Approximately 1,500 to 2,000 tons of mulch is available each year. The city’s Christmas tree recycling program is also very successful. For the past 20 years, 6,500 to 7,000 trees have been recycled annually.
Contact: Frank DeCelles, Public Works Director
City of Plantation
400 N.W. 73rd Avenue
Plantation, FL 33317
Phone: (954) 452-2535
E-mail: fdecelles@plantation.org
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Tree Initiatives
City of Plantation
For the past 15 years, the City of Plantation has held an annual ceremony to acknowledge individuals, churches, schools and businesses for outstanding landscapes throughout the city. Another event, TreeDay, offers sessions with educational speakers, information and free trees. Plantation also celebrates Arbor Day by visiting elementary and middle schools, and planting two trees at each school. Children receive seedlings to take home. Another initiative, Plantation Shade Brigade, was developed to increase knowledge of tree and arboricultural practices. Residents are encouraged to plant and maintain trees. In 2007, the city launched a 40-page booklet, “Guide to Living Amongst the Trees in the City of Plantation.” The ink was soy based and the paper recycled.
Contact: Jeffery Siegel, Landscape Architect
City of Plantation
400 N.W. 73rd Avenue
Plantation, FL 33317
Phone: (954) 797-2246
E-mail: jsiegel@plantation.org
Landscape Initiatives
City of Plantation
The Street Trees Program allows residents and city partners to purchase, plant and maintain trees in the swales. Tree canopy significantly cools the air and ground in its environment, encourages wildlife to remain in the urban setting, absorbs pollutants in the air, and retains moisture and rainfall. The city’s landscape architect reviews all proposed commercial landscape plans and comments on the integrity of each project. Recommendations are made to upgrade and/or adhere to established landscape codes.
Contact: Jeffery Siegel, Landscape Architect
City of Plantation
400 N.W. 73rd Avenue
Plantation, FL 33317
Phone: (954) 797-2246
E-mail: jsiegel@plantation.org
NatureScape Partnership
City of Plantation
The City of Plantation entered into an interlocal agreement with Broward County to monitor and evaluate irrigation practices and provide recommendations for potential water savings that could be achieved. Parks and city facilities were included in the study and quarterly reports are made to the facilities.
Contact: Jeffery Siegel, Landscape Architect
City of Plantation
400 N.W. 73rd Avenue
Plantation, FL 33317
Phone: (954) 797-2246
E-mail: jsiegel@plantation.org
Programmable Thermostats
City of Plantation
The City of Plantation has changed out mercury and standard-setting thermostats with new programmable thermostats in all city buildings. These new control units allow the city to set the air conditioning and heating units to come on during peak hours of the day, saving energy.
Contact: Frank DeCelles
Public Works Director
City of Plantation
400 N.W. 73rd Avenue
Plantation, FL 33317
Phone: (954) 452-2535
E-mail: fdecelles@plantation.org
T-8 Lighting
City of Plantation
The City of Plantation has changed out florescent lighting with new T-8 lighting that uses less power but provides the same if not brighter lighting in all city buildings.
Contact: Frank DeCelles, Public Works Director
City of Plantation
400 N.W. 73rd Avenue
Plantation, FL 33317
Phone: (954) 452-2535
E-mail: fdecelles@plantation.org
Designated Green City
City of St. Petersburg
In May 2007, St. Petersburg was designated a “Green City” by the Florida Green Building Coalition (FGBC). The FGBC developed a standard of criteria to evaluate local governments’ performance in implementing green programs that benefit the environment in the areas of energy, water, air, land and waste. St. Petersburg has many environmental initiatives including use of biodiesel fuel and hybrid vehicles in its fleet; one of the country’s largest reclaimed water systems; a recycling program and a successful yard waste-to-mulch program; preservation of environmentally sensitive land and habitat restorations; an extensive parks system; more than 50 miles of bicycle trails; water conservation education; programs to protect surface waters, such as the recent restoration of Lake Maggiore; tree planting programs; and environmental education at such places as the Green Thumb Festival, Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, Sunken Gardens and Weedon Island.
Contact: Mike Connors
Internal Services Administrator
City of St. Petersburg
P.O. Box 2842
St. Petersburg, FL 33731
Phone: (727) 893-7294
E-mail: michael.connors@stpete.org
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“Clam Bayou Clean-up” Environmental Partnership
City of St. Petersburg
The City of St. Petersburg partnered with the City of Gulfport and the Green Armada – a nationally recognized environmental group founded in St. Petersburg – to host an environmental awareness day that called residents into action to clean Clam Bayou. Shared by both St. Petersburg and Gulfport, Clam Bayou was filled with years of pollution flushed into the waterway through both cities’ stormwater systems. Supported by a grassroots communication campaign, the event resulted in the largest single environmental cleanup in Pinellas County history. More than 500 volunteers removed 9,500 bags of trash, 200 tires, a TV and a washing machine from Clam Bayou in less than four hours.
Contact: Robert Danielson
Assistant Director of Marketing
City of St. Petersburg
P.O. Box 2842
St. Petersburg, FL 33713
Phone: (727) 893-7465
E-mail: robert.danielson@stpete.org
Fully Automated Residential Single-Stream Recycling Program
City of Stuart
On October 1, 2007, the City of Stuart implemented a new single-stream recycling program. Residents no longer need to separate recyclable materials. All recyclables can be tossed into one blue 68-gallon cart and wheeled to the street, making it easier for residents to participate in the program and increasing Stuart’s average weekly recycling tonnage by 236 percent. Stuart adopted “Sammy Sailfish” as its recycling mascot, which will be used for all educational and promotional events. Transforming existing collection equipment with the new mascot and using existing manpower allowed for a monthly rate reduction of $2 per customer, saving the city a projected $87,000 annually in landfill fees.
Contact: Mary Kindel
Recycling and Conservation Coordinator
City of Stuart
121 S.W. Flagler Avenue
Stuart, FL 34994
Phone: (772) 600-1206
E-mail: mkindel@ci.stuart.fl.us
Government Center Goes Green
City of Sunny Isles Beach
In the Sunny Isles Beach Government Center, city employees are making every effort to help preserve their environment by recycling cardboard, newspaper, white office paper, comingles (tin can, plastic containers, aluminum can, etc.) and every type of compact fluorescent lamps (most lamps contain Mercury), electronic ballast, ink cartridges and toner. Maintenance staff is also participating in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star Challenge, which is a national call-to-action to improve the energy efficiency of America’s commercial and industrial buildings by 10 percent or more. The City Commission recently recognized a facilities maintenance worker for implementing an energy-reduction program to automatically turn off the heating, ventilation, air conditioning equipment and lights when the Government Center building isn’t in use. This has resulted in a reduction of energy consumption and a yearly savings of $20,000. The latest initiative is a program to recycle various types of dry-cell batteries.
Contact: Victor Mercedes
Facilities Maintenance Supervisor
City of Sunny Isles Beach
18070 Collins Avenue
Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160
Phone: (305) 792-1910
E-mail: vmercedes@sibfl.net
Green City Designation
City of Tallahassee
The Florida Green Building Coalition has designated the City of Tallahassee as a Green City. Tallahassee was the second city in Florida to receive this honor. The Green Local Government Standard designates Green Cities and Green Counties for outstanding environmental stewardship. Some of the most notable initiatives that contributed to this accomplishment are the city’s Green Fleet, which includes alternative fuel vehicles such as the biodiesel, compressed natural gas and hybrid vehicles; educational programs that heighten awareness among city staff and local students; recycling programs that include curbside recycling and creative recycling marketing strategies; and a variety of energy- and water-conservation initiatives.
Contact: Cynthia S. Barber, General Manager
Utility Business and Customer Services
City of Tallahassee
300 S. Adams Street
Tallahassee, FL 32301
Phone: (850) 891-8340
E-mail: cynthia.barber@talgov.com
Biodiesel Pilot Project and Research Facility
City of Tallahassee
The City of Tallahassee’s Fleet Management Department has constructed a biodiesel facility capable of producing 300 gallons of biodiesel per day from waste vegetable oil. Several city “test” vehicles currently operate on various blends of biodiesel and conventional ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel. Research in the realm of efficient production is still ongoing. However, a plan to construct a full-scale biodiesel facility through the bidding process is under way. The new facility will be designed with a goal to operate the entire diesel powered fleet with a minimum 20-percent blend of biodiesel and conventional ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel.
Contact: Terry Lowe, Fleet Superintendent
Fleet Management Department
City of Tallahassee
400 Dupree Street
Tallahassee, FL 32304
Phone: (850) 891-5225
E-mail: lowet@talgov.com
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Changing Your Most Important Citizen Service
City of Tallahassee
When the City of Tallahassee needed to change service or increase rates for solid waste and recycling (after 15 years with no increases), the question was how to bring citizens on board. A detailed communications plan was designed that focused on citizen preferences, including increased recycling and rolling trash cans to the curb rather than increasing rates. The campaign included informational stickers on every trash can, calls to customers from the mayor reminding them of their new collection date, and even a “cart courtesy crew” of city employees who walked neighborhoods reminding citizens to pull their carts back from the curb. Not one call was received from a citizen unaware of the service change, and recycling is up more than 30 percent.
Contact: M. Michelle Bono
Assistant to the City Manager
City Manager’s Office
City of Tallahassee
300 S. Adams Street
Tallahassee, FL 32301
Phone: (850) 891-8200
E-mail: michelle.bono@talgov.com
Smart Metering
City of Tallahassee
Consistent with its goals of energy and water conservation, the City of Tallahassee is implementing “smart metering” in its utility system, which consists of approximately 220,000 electric, gas and water meters. Smart metering is much more than reading meters to provide billing information, it is two-way communication with customers that provides new paths into customer service, time-based pricing, water and energy conservation, and load control. The smart metering initiative will play a vital role in “greening” Tallahassee by providing greater information and tools for customer choice to lessen the need for new energy and water resources as the city grows.
Contact: David Byrne, P.E., Director
Energy Services
City of Tallahassee
100 W. Virginia Street - 5th Floor
Tallahassee, FL 32301
Phone: (850) 891-6898
Treasure Tampa, “A Clean City Is Worth Preserving”
City of Tampa
The City of Tampa partnered with the University of South Florida’s 2006 public relations class to create a comprehensive anti-litter campaign to reduce litter and create a cleaner city. The City of Tampa was ranked No. 31 out of the 50 largest cities in the Reader’s Digest 2005 Cleanest/Dirtiest Metro Cities in the United States. As a result, Tampa created a Clean City Day “Cleanup” Initiative, in conjunction with the Great American Cleanup, for volunteers to assist with beautification projects and cleanup efforts. Partnerships were formed to support the Adopt-A-Street Program, Trash Receptacle Program and educational signage to increase awareness to reduce litter in the city.
Contact: Jim Pinkney, CPRP, Division Manager
Clean City Division
City of Tampa
7525 North Boulevard
Tampa, FL 33604
Phone: (813) 931-2143
E-mail: jim.pinkney@ci.tampa.fl.us
Innovative Green Projects
City of Tarpon Springs
The City of Tarpon Springs has implemented several green initiatives throughout its operational divisions to help the environment and enhance efficiency. The city’s Waste Water Treatment Plant has converted its large operating motors to require less electricity to run, and the Police and Fire departments now use recycled paper products and green cleaning products. Also, the city marina has been designated a “clean marina” and soon will become a “green marina.” City staff members are also researching other green initiatives to implement operationally in the near future.
Contact: Captain Robert Kochen
Tarpon Springs Police Department
City of Tarpon Springs
444 S. Huey Avenue
Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
Phone: (727) 938-2840
E-mail: rkochen@tspd.us
CityGreen
City of West Palm Beach
The City of West Palm Beach has made environmental conservation a priority. The city is involved in numerous programs and projects, ranging from multi-million dollar innovations to paper reduction. The city’s most innovative conservation initiative is the Wetlands-Based Water Reclamation project, which uses groundbreaking methods to treat millions of gallons of wastewater to a high level, allowing it to be discharged onto wetlands. Water that would otherwise be lost instead helps recharge those environmentally sensitive areas. This project saves 5 million to 8 million gallons of water each day. In addition, the new City Hall and library are being constructed with energy efficiency in mind. West Palm Beach also has expanded recycling at city facilities and events, has begun purchasing flex-fuel vehicles, is maintaining a tree-planting program and is encouraging green development. The mayor’s new program, CityGreen, will engage local stakeholders in an effort to find even more ways to conserve and protect our environment.
Contact: Peter Robbins
Mayor’s Office
City of West Palm Beach
200 2nd Street
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Phone: (561) 822-1400
E-mail: probbins@wpb.org
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