HomeMy WebLinkAbout2.c. Review STAR Communities
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
City Council Work Session Meeting: September 8, 2015
AGENDA ITEM: Review Star Communities AGENDA SECTION:
Discussion
PREPARED BY: Kim Lindquist, Community Development
Director AGENDA NO. 2.c.
ATTACHMENTS: Star Communities Information
APPROVED BY: ddj
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Discussion Item
SUMMARY
In 2014 the City participated in the STAR Communities project and received a 3-star designation. Through
the process, the City compiled a lot of information that would allow the City to increase sustainability
efforts, should the Council choose to prioritize these tasks. Obviously, the City has been implementing a
variety of sustainability programs and measures which allowed the City to receive the 3-star designation. The
question is whether the Council would like to expand on the STAR program, which would mean initiating
programmatic changes and increased tracking of measures not currently conducted. As the Council is aware,
completing the rating system for STAR was a time-consuming process. Should the Council prioritize this
exercise and have a goal to increase our points, there would be additional work necessary for existing staff
which would shift current work.
DISCUSSION
The STAR Communities has seven subject areas:
• Built Environment
• Climate & Energy
• Economy & Jobs
• Education, Arts & Community
• Equity & empowerment
• Health & Safety
• Natural Systems
Within those subject areas there are a “series of objectives aimed at achieving community-level aspirations.
Objectives are measured in two ways: through attainment of community level outcomes and/or completion
of local actions that are essential to reaching the outcomes.” For example in the Built Environment,
Ambient Noise and Light is one objective that a city can receive up to 5 points. If the City meets the
Community Level Outcomes listed, they could receive 70% of the points (5 points). There are 3 outcomes
relating to Noise, Light in the Community, and Light in the Night Sky. If the City could meet all those
outcomes, 3.5 points would be given. To receive all 5 points, the City would also need to meet some local
actions, of which there are eight. Only 70% of the points can be obtained through Local Actions. The City
can receive all 5 points through a combination of meeting Objectives and Local Actions, but the most
2
awarded for this Outcome is 5 points. As can be seen from this one example, there is flexibility in how to
obtain points but it is a cumbersome process to review all the options, in this case there would be eleven
different assessments to be made to receive up to 5 points.
One of the main program issues identified by staff is the criteria used to determine whether Rosemount is
sustainable and the resulting point system. As we have discussed previously, some of the criteria are, in
staff’s opinion, not indicative of the circumstances occurring in Rosemount. The prime example is the
“Quality Jobs and Living Wages. We received 4.26 points for this category even though we have low
unemployment, good local jobs with good wages.
Staff has categorized all the Outcomes and Local Actions into 5 categories for the Council’s information.
• Items we currently do (yes)
• Things we wouldn’t do (no)
• Yes, information available but not tracked
• Yes, maybe we could do that but it will take resources
• Yes, maybe with additional research
Not surprisingly, staff feels we would be able to track the “yes, available” with the least amount of work,
with the two other categories requiring a more concerted effort.
The question is whether the Council would like to continue with this program and, if so, is the goal to
increase points. We received 325 points which is within the 3-star category. To become a 4-star community
we would need to increase our points by 75, which is almost ¼ more than the current points. There are
costs and staff resources involved with application completion and fees. Additional staff resources would be
necessary to take on additional tasks which would result in greater points. Or is the goal to assess the
community and benchmark current circumstances, with the intention of making incremental changes over
time to improve the level of sustainability within the City. The Council should provide staff direction
regarding their goals for this program. Depending upon that outcome, Staff will make recommendations to
the Council in the near future about how to proceed.
RECOMMENDATION
Provide staff direction.
Table
of Goals &
Objectives
2
Final Score
325 Points – 3-STAR Community
Recognized for sustainability leadership.
4
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Education, Arts
& Community Community Cohesion EAC-2 O-1 7.4 7.4
Demonstrate that at least 75% of residents live within 1 mile of a
community venue that is open to the public and offers free services
and/or events for residents
Climate &
Energy Climate Adaptation CE-1 LA-5 Adopt zoning code, building code, or other legally binding
regulations that address future climate change threats
Built
Environment
Community Water
Systems BE-2 O-1 3 3
Part 1: Demonstrate that the community is not in violation of EPA's 5%
standard for coliform bacteria in water pipes --AND-- Part 2: Option A:
Demonstrate that the water supplied to residents is not in violation of EPA
standards for turbidity and water pathogens --OR-- Option B: increase the
amount of all regulated contaminants over time [Can get partial credit]
Climate &
Energy Greenhouse Gas Mitigation CE-2 LA-6 Adopt energy efficiency regulations for buildings within the
jurisdiction
Built
Environment
Community Water
Systems BE-2 O-4 3.8 3.8 National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permits have been
obtained prior to discharging stormwater
Climate &
Energy Greenhouse Gas Mitigation CE-2 LA-9 Implement specific programs and services or create facility
upgrades that reduce waste in the community
Built
Environment Public Spaces BE-6 O-1 4.5 4.5
Provide ample parkland based on population density as follows:
High: 6.8 acres per 1,000 residents
Intermediate-High: 7.3 Acres per 1,000 residents
Intermediate-low: 13.5 acres per 1,000 residents
Low: 20.3 acres per 1,000 residents
Climate &
Energy Greening the Energy Supply CE-3 LA-3
Remove zoning, height, and other regulatory restrictions on the
development of small-scale renewable energy installations and
alternative fueling systems
Built
Environment Public Spaces BE-6 O-2 4.5 4.5
Demonstrate that housing units in the community are located within a 1/2
mile walk distance of a public space or park based on population density
as follows:
High or intermediate-High: 85%
Intermediate-low or low: 70%
Climate &
Energy Greening the Energy Supply CE-3 LA-8 Run a net-metering program that encourages the development of
small scale renewable energy sources
Built
Environment Public Spaces BE-6 O-3 4.5 4.5 Demonstrate that 90% of households are located within 3 miles of an off-
road trail
Climate &
Energy Industrial Sector Resource Efficiency CE-4 LA-4
Partner with local industries and voluntary greenhouse gas
reporting programs to collect and report emissions and
mitigation efforts
Built
Environment Public Spaces BE-6 O-4 1.5 1.5
Option A: Demonstrate that 66% or more of surveyed residents visit a
park at least once a year
--OR--
Option B: Demonstrate that 66% or more surveyed residents respond
favorably regarding the quality of the community's public space and park
system
Climate &
Energy Resource Efficient Buildings CE-5 LA-2 Adopt or upgrade building codes to ensure that new and
renovated buildings are more water and energy efficient
Equity &
Empowerment Civic Engagement EE-1 O-3 3.2 3.2
Option A: Demonstrate that at least 50% of residents believe they are able
to have a positive impact on their community based on a local survey --OR-
- Option B: Increase over time the percentage of residents who believe
they are able to have a positive impact on their community based on local
surveys [Partial Credit Applies]
Climate &
Energy Resource Efficient Buildings CE-5 LA-4
Create an education and outreach campaign or challenge to
engage citizens and businesses in energy and water efficiency
efforts
Health & Safety Active Living HS-1 O-1 5.3 5.3 Demonstrate that 21% or less of adults aged 20+ report no leisure time
physical activity within the past month
Climate &
Energy Resource Efficient Buildings CE-5 LA-7 Train inspectors to enforce water and energy efficiency standards
in adopted building codes
Health & Safety Emergency Prevention
& Response HS-3 O-1 6 6 Achieve a Class 4 Insurance Services Office rating or better Climate &
Energy Resource Efficient Buildings CE-5 LA-9 Create a program to help homeowners and renters upgrade to
more energy and water efficient homes
Health & Safety Emergency Prevention
& Response HS-3 O-2 6 6 Demonstrate that 90% of response times are in compliance with standards
set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
Climate &
Energy Waste Minimization CE-7 LA-1
Adopt a waste management plan that identifies the community’s
greatest sources of waste, sets formal waste reductions targets
and establishes actions to help reach the community’s waste
reduction aims
Health & Safety Emergency Prevention
& Response HS-3 O-3 3 3 Demonstrate that the community is in compliance with the National
Incident Management System (NIMS)
Climate &
Energy Waste Minimization CE-7 LA-2 Adopt specific product bans that will significantly advance
progress towards waste reduction goals
Local Actions-YesOutcomes-Yes
Yes
Actions have been completed and data is tracked
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-YesOutcomes-Yes
Yes
Actions have been completed and data is tracked
Health & Safety Food Access &
Nutrition HS-4 O-1 2.6 2.6
Option A: Demonstrate an increase over the past 3 years in the amount of
fresh food produced through local urban agriculture --OR-- Option B:
Demonstrate an increase over the past 3 years in the amount of fresh
food sold locally at farmers markets or other direct farm-to-consumer
activities
Climate &
Energy Waste Minimization CE-7 LA-3
Create a public education campaign or a focused outreach effort
to inform residents and businesses of their roles in achieving
waste reduction targets
Health & Safety Food Access &
Nutrition HS-4 O-2 2.6 2.6 Demonstrate an increase over the past 3 years in the ability of low-income
families to access low cost, healthful food
Climate &
Energy Waste Minimization CE-7 LA-4 Develop or participate in a regional coalition that enhances the
community’s ability to address waste management targets
Health & Safety Indoor Air Quality HS-5 O-1 1.8 1.8 Decrease the number of student, parent, and staff complaints to the
public school district regarding indoor air quality (IAQ) over time
Climate &
Energy Waste Minimization CE-7 LA-6 Provide services to enable residents and businesses to recycle
and reduce their waste footprint
Health & Safety Safe Communities HS-7 O-1 7.5 7.5
Option A: Demonstrate that the average violent crime rate for the past 3
years is below the following thresholds: 5.5 homicides per 100,000
residents, 70 incidents of rape or attempted rape per 100,000 residents,
462.7 aggravated assaults per 100,000 residents --OR-- Option B: Achieve
targets for a percentage decrease in violent crime identified in a locally
adopted safe communities strategic plan [Partial credit applies]
Climate &
Energy Waste Minimization CE-7 LA-7 Collaboratively create and run at least 2 targeted recycling
programs at key locations throughout the community
Health & Safety Safe Communities HS-7 O-2 7.5 7.5 Demonstrate that the average number of incidents of school violence is
less than 10 per 1,000 students for all public schools in the jurisdiction
Climate &
Energy Waste Minimization CE-7 LA-8
Operate at least 2 specific waste management programs for
critical waste stream types found in the community, such as:
organic waste, hazardous waste, electronic waste, and
construction / demolition waste
Natural Systems Green NS-1 O-1 8.4 8.4
Option A: Demonstrate that 35% of the jurisdiction's land area has
protected vegetated surfaces performing a minimum of 2 of the following
functions: Localized cooling through tree canopy cover, green roofs, or
green walls; Water management through wetlands, streams, buffers and
permeable surfaces; Recreation through parks and/or greenways --OR--
Option B: Demonstrate a 2-5% increase in land area with protected
vegetated surfaces over time
Economy &
Jobs Local Economy EJ-3 LA-1
Conduct an assessment of local economic conditions,
including economic leakage and targeted sectors for future
investment
Natural Systems Green NS-1 O-2 7 7
Demonstrate that 85% of the population levies within a 1/2 mile walk
distance from green infrastructure features that are performing a
minimum of 2 of the following functions: Localized cooling through tree
canopy cover, green roofs, or green walls; Water management through
wetlands, streams, buffers and permeable surfaces; Recreation through
parks
Economy &
Jobs Quality Jobs & Living Wages EJ-4 LA-2
Enact family-friendly workplace policies for all local
government employees that include at least 2 of the
following benefits: paid sick days, family leave, flexible
scheduling, job sharing, and easily available childcare.
Natural Systems Outdoor Air Quality NS-4 O-1 15 15
Option A: Achieve attainment or maintenance status for all measured
criteria pollutants --OR-- Option B: Part 1 - Demonstrate a decrease in the
annual concentration of the non-attainment criteria pollutant(s) that have
the greatest impacts on public health, specifically PM2.5,PM10, and ozone
--AND-- Part 2 - Demonstrate a decrease in the annual number of days in
which Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeds 100 over the past 5 years [Partial
Credit applies]
Economy &
Jobs Quality Jobs & Living Wages EJ-4 LA-7
Maintain collective bargaining relationships with public
employee labor organizations that represent local
government workers
Economy &
Jobs Quality Jobs & Living Wages EJ-4 LA-9
Provide job training and assistance programs for employees
and employers in professions or sectors where wages are
below the living wage or self-sufficiency standard
Economy &
Jobs Targeted Industry Development EJ-5 LA-2
Invest in market studies and research to support the
continued growth and expansion of targeted industry
sectors
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-YesOutcomes-Yes
Yes
Actions have been completed and data is tracked
Economy &
Jobs Workforce Readiness EJ-6 LA-6
Create data sharing agreements between local
governments and private sector employers to maximize the
availability and use of data in economic and workforce
development planning
Economy &
Jobs Workforce Readiness EJ-6 LA-8 Provide support services and training tailored to the needs
of the local workforce
Economy &
Jobs Workforce Readiness EJ-6 LA-9
Support expansion of community college programs to
address the educational and training needs of the local
workforce
Education, Arts,
& Community Arts & Culture EAC-1 LA-4 Collaborate with private, non-profit, or regional organizations to
increase access to and participation in the arts
Education, Arts,
& Community Arts & Culture EAC-1 LA-5 Track participation and attendance at major community arts and
cultural events, performances, festivals, and programs
Education, Arts,
& Community Arts & Culture EAC-1 LA-6 Provide financial or logistical support to local arts, festivals,
performances, or cultural tourism
Education, Arts,
& Community Arts & Culture EAC-1 LA-7 Hire local artists to create artwork, sculptures, or perform in
public spaces
Education, Arts,
& Community Arts & Culture EAC-1 LA-9
Provide entrepreneurial and workforce development training
programs that serve artists, writers, designers, and other
creative industries professionals
Education, Arts,
& Community Arts & Culture EAC-1 LA-10 Ensure that major arts and cultural facilities are accessible to
people with disabilities
Education, Arts,
& Community Community Cohesion EAC-2 LA-2
Adopt zoning and development regulations that support or
incentivize farmers markets, community gardens, and urban
agriculture.
Education, Arts,
& Community Community Cohesion EAC-2 LA-7 Provide direct funding and management of at least 2 types of
community and neighborhood venues
Education, Arts,
& Community Community Cohesion EAC-2 LA-9
Provide programs that support the development of positive,
strong youth leaders, particularly in low-income and/or
minority neighborhoods
Education, Arts,
& Community Community Cohesion EAC-2 LA-10
Provide financial or logistical support for publicly-accessible
neighborhood events, activities, and programming, particularly
in low-income and/or minority neighborhoods
Education, Arts,
& Community Educational Opportunity & Attainment EAC-3 LA-3 Prepare an annual progress report for the public outlining the
local school system’s performance
Education, Arts,
& Community Educational Opportunity & Attainment EAC-3 LA-5 Provide full-day kindergarten for low-income students and
students with special needs
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-YesOutcomes-Yes
Yes
Actions have been completed and data is tracked
Education, Arts,
& Community Historic Preservation EAC-4 LA-4
Adopt land use, zoning, and design regulations that support and
reinforce existing community character in older and
historic neighborhoods and commercial areas, and promote
development of sensitive, compatible infill
Education, Arts,
& Community Historic Preservation EAC-4 LA-5
Collaborate with local non-profit or for-profit entities to support
local events, recognition programs, and tourism efforts
that celebrate and leverage the economic value of local historic
resources
Education, Arts,
& Community Social & Cultural Diversity EAC-5 LA-4 Promote events and programs that recognize and celebrate social
and cultural diversity in the community
Education, Arts,
& Community Social & Cultural Diversity EAC-5 LA-5 Provide equity and diversity training for local government staff
Education, Arts,
& Community Social & Cultural Diversity EAC-5 LA-9
Provide financial or logistical support to programs, activities, or
events that celebrate and deepen understanding and
respect for the community’s diversity
Built
Environment Ambient Noise & Light BE-1 LA-1 Adopt a community noise policy, ordinance, or regulations as
needed based upon a local assessment
Built
Environment Ambient Noise & Light BE-1 LA-2 Adopt a community light policy, ordinance, or regulations as
needed based upon a local assessment
Built
Environment Community Water Systems BE-2 LA-1
Adopt a jurisdiction-wide management plan for both water
consumption and disposal that provides a clean and secure water
supply for all local uses
Built
Environment Community Water Systems BE-2 LA-4 Establish water quality monitoring and public reporting systems
Built
Environment Community Water Systems BE-2 LA-5 Shift towards a full cost pricing system to ensure that users are
paying for the true cost of water
Built
Environment Community Water Systems BE-2 LA-7
Develop and provide water conservation programs to residents,
businesses and agricultural water users in order to help ensure
that the community is not depleting its water supply
Built
Environment Community Water Systems BE-2 LA-8
Manage and upgrade infrastructure to reduce leaks in the system,
eliminate contaminants, and achieve other local conservation
goals
Built
Environment Community Water Systems BE-2 LA-9 Implement at least 3 innovative water infrastructure and facility
programs
Built
Environment Community Water Systems BE-2 LA-11
Engage in restoration projects for critical water bodies that
provide usable water for the jurisdiction or stormwater
management assistance (also NS-5 / LA-8)
Built
Environment Compact & Complete Communities BE-3 LA-1 Demonstrate that the comprehensive plan supports compact,
mixed-use development
Built
Environment Compact & Complete Communities BE-3 LA-2 Identify areas appropriate for compact, mixed-use development
on the community’s official future land use map
Built
Environment Compact & Complete Communities BE-3 LA-3
Adopt regulatory strategies that permit or incentivize increased
residential and employment densities and diverse uses in transit-
served areas and areas identified for compact, mixed-use
development
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-YesOutcomes-Yes
Yes
Actions have been completed and data is tracked
Built
Environment Compact & Complete Communities BE-3 LA-8
Establish a design review board, neighborhood commission, or
similar appointed citizen body that provides comments on
proposed development projects
Built
Environment Compact & Complete Communities BE-3 LA-9
Implement programs to preserve and maintain existing subsidized
and unsubsidized affordable housing in transit-served areas,
compact and mixed-use areas, and areas with rapidly-rising
housing costs
Built
Environment Housing Affordability BE-4 LA-1 Develop a comprehensive housing strategy
Built
Environment Housing Affordability BE-4 LA-4
Use regulatory and design strategies to encourage compatible
infill and redevelopment with a mix of housing types in
neighborhoods close to employment centers, commercial areas,
and where transit or transportation alternatives exist
Built
Environment Housing Affordability BE-4 LA-6 Collaborate with other jurisdictions to address affordable housing
and location efficiency needs in the region
Built
Environment Housing Affordability BE-4 LA-7
Partner with nonprofit or faith-based organization(s) to provide
education, counseling, and financial assistance to homebuyers or
renters, particularly minorities
Built
Environment Housing Affordability BE-4 LA-8
Implement programs to preserve and maintain existing subsidized
and unsubsidized affordable housing in transit-served areas,
compact and mixed-use areas, and areas with rapidly-rising
housing costs
Built
Environment Infill & Redevelopment BE-5 LA-1
Develop an inventory of infill, previously developed, brownfield,
or greyfield sites of greatest priority and potential for
development or redevelopment
Built
Environment Infill & Redevelopment BE-5 LA-3
Use regulatory and design strategies to encourage compatible
infill and redevelopment with a mix of housing types in
neighborhoods close to employment centers, commercial areas,
and where transit or transportation alternatives exist
Built
Environment Infill & Redevelopment BE-5 LA-4
Educate residents and community groups about the importance
of infill and redevelopment, brownfield assessment findings, and
design strategies for compatible neighborhood development
Built
Environment Infill & Redevelopment BE-5 LA-5 Collaborate with state and federal authorities to advance
brownfield cleanup
Built
Environment Infill & Redevelopment BE-5 LA-6
Establish a program to provide information and assistance to
owners, potential buyers, and developers regarding brownfield
assessments, redevelopment strategies, and available resources
Built
Environment Infill & Redevelopment BE-5 LA-7 Support temporary, creative neighborhood uses for vacant
properties and greyfields
Built
Environment Infill & Redevelopment BE-5 LA-8 Provide financial incentives to encourage infill and
redevelopment
Built
Environment Infill & Redevelopment BE-5 LA-9
Perform proactive zoning enforcement and vacant lot cleanup or
maintenance to improve the attractiveness of a redevelopment
or blighted area and to deter crime
Built
Environment Infill & Redevelopment BE-5 LA-10
Target local infrastructure improvements to revitalize
redevelopment or blighted areas and catalyze private
reinvestment
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-YesOutcomes-Yes
Yes
Actions have been completed and data is tracked
Built
Environment Public Spaces BE-6 LA-1
Adopt a parks and/or open space plan that promotes a
community-wide network of public spaces that provide
recreational, transportation, and environmental benefits
Built
Environment Public Spaces BE-6 LA-3 Adopt regulatory strategies or development incentives to create,
maintain, and connect parks and public spaces
Built
Environment Public Spaces BE-6 LA-4
Adopt design guidelines for new public spaces and improvements
to existing facilities to strengthen environmental benefits and
provide visitor amenities
Built
Environment Public Spaces BE-6 LA-5 Participate in a local or regional alliance working to improve and
expand the community-based or regional park system
Built
Environment Public Spaces BE-6 LA-6
Create an advisory board to regularly receive feedback from
residents and organizations regarding planning, decision making,
and other issues affecting the quality and availability of parks and
public spaces
Built
Environment Public Spaces BE-6 LA-7 Host or partner with a volunteer program to support parks and
public space maintenance
Built
Environment Public Spaces BE-6 LA-8 Provide assistance for low-income users to access and use parks
and public spaces through subsidy, scholarships, and discounts
Built
Environment Public Spaces BE-6 LA-9 Host programs and events in parks and public spaces that bring
the community together and encourage physical activity
Built
Environment Public Spaces BE-6 LA-10 Consistently invest sufficient capital and operational funding to
create and maintain parks and public spaces
Built
Environment Transportation Choices BE-7 LA-5 Implement at least 2 types of focused enforcement programs to
ensure pedestrian, bicycle, and motorist safety
Built
Environment Transportation Choices BE-7 LA-7 Increase the mileage of sidewalks, particularly on arterial or
collector roads that connect people with destinations
Built
Environment Transportation Choices BE-7 LA-8 Increase the mileage of striped or buffered bicycle lanes, cycle-
tracks, parallel off-street paths and/or other dedicated facilities
Built
Environment Transportation Choices BE-7 LA-10 Construct or retrofit transportation infrastructure to meet
standards in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Built
Environment Transportation Choices BE-7 LA-1
Adopt a bicycle and pedestrian master plan and/or non-
motorized safety plan that prioritizes future projects to improve
access to non-motorized transportation and increase safety
Equity &
Empowerment Civic Engagement EE-1 LA-7 Create a volunteer program for residents to assist the local
government with special events, services, and operations
Equity &
Empowerment Civic Engagement EE-1 LA-8 Provide support and resources to local community groups to help
them achieve their missions
Equity &
Empowerment Equitable Services & Access EE-4 LA-6 Provide equity and diversity training for local government staff
Equity &
Empowerment Human Services EE-5 LA-1
Conduct a community needs assessment to identify priority
service needs and resources, including the needs of priority
populations
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-YesOutcomes-Yes
Yes
Actions have been completed and data is tracked
Equity &
Empowerment Human Services EE-5 LA-3
Establish an advisory committee that provides ongoing
consultation to local departments and agencies responsible for
providing priority human services
Equity &
Empowerment Human Services EE-5 LA-4 Develop public education campaigns to inform residents about
available service programs to help meet basic needs
Equity &
Empowerment Poverty Prevention & Alleviation EE-6 LA-3 Develop public education campaigns to inform residents about
available service programs to help meet basic needs
Equity &
Empowerment Poverty Prevention & Alleviation EE-6 LA-4
Establish or support programs that reduce the costs of basic
needs for low-income households, such as utilities,
transportation, healthful fresh food, basic medical care, and
school supplies
Equity &
Empowerment Poverty Prevention & Alleviation EE-6 LA-6 Create programs to improve employment opportunities for low-
income individuals by strengthening hard and soft work skills
Equity &
Empowerment Poverty Prevention & Alleviation EE-6 LA-7
Provide child development programs for children living at or near
the local poverty line, including food and nutrition, health care,
and early childhood education
Health & Safety Active Living HS-1 LA-1
Include a chapter, section, or plan element focused on active
living or active transportation in the comprehensive plan or
transportation plan
Health & Safety Active Living HS-1 LA-2
Require or incentivize bicycle and pedestrian amenities in new
major development projects in high-density, mixed-use
areas or near transit stations
Health & Safety Active Living HS-1 LA-5
Create an advisory board to advise the local government on
issues related to planning, policies, code requirements, and other
actions affecting active living in the community
Health & Safety Active Living HS-1 LA-7
Appoint a physical activity specialist within the local health
department to serve as a liaison with relevant local government
departments or agencies
Health & Safety Active Living HS-1 LA-8 Host or partner with community groups to support at least 2
programs that encourage active living for adults and kids
Health & Safety Active Living HS-1 LA-9 Implement a local program that systematically improves bicycle
and pedestrian amenities community-wide
Health & Safety Active Living HS-1 LA-11 Enable joint use of school-based recreation facilities during non-
school hours
Health & Safety Community Health & Health System HS-2 LA-2 Develop a community health improvement plan to strengthen the
delivery of health services and improve community health
Health & Safety Community Health & Health System HS-2 LA-4
Collaboratively engage the public in the assessment of
community health problems and developing strategies to
improve the delivery of health services
Health & Safety Community Health & Health System HS-2 LA-6
Provide information and education to the public regarding health
issues and available local programs and services that support
prevention and wellness
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-YesOutcomes-Yes
Yes
Actions have been completed and data is tracked
Health & Safety Community Health & Health System HS-2 LA-8
Use a performance management system to monitor and improve
health services and programs that promote positive health
outcomes and expand access to health care
Health & Safety Emergency Prevention & Response HS-3 LA-1
Develop a NIMS-compliant local inventory of assets and
resources available for emergency response and mutual aid
requests
Health & Safety Emergency Prevention & Response HS-3 LA-3 Participate in interstate, statewide, regional, or inter-
jurisdictional mutual aid response systems
Health & Safety Emergency Prevention & Response HS-3 LA-4 Participate in a regional emergency planning commission
Health & Safety Emergency Prevention & Response HS-3 LA-6
Participate in training drills that involve the public and emergency
management personnel from multiple departments
and/or multiple jurisdictions
Health & Safety Emergency Prevention & Response HS-3 LA-7
Perform an annual review or assessment of plans, procedures,
resources, and trainings based on emergency response
incidents and demands
Health & Safety Emergency Prevention & Response HS-3 LA-9 Host an active Citizen Emergency Response Team (CERT) or
Medical Reserve Corps (MRC)
Health & Safety Food Access & Nutrition HS-4 LA-2
Adopt zoning and development regulations that support or
incentivize farmers markets, community gardens, and urban
agriculture
Health & Safety Food Access & Nutrition HS-4 LA-5 Demonstrate that the local public school district has adopted a
model school wellness policy
Health & Safety Food Access & Nutrition HS-4 LA-8
Demonstrate that local schools or the public school district has
received certification from the USDA Healthier US Schools
Challenge or an award from the Alliance for a Healthier
Generation in the past 3 years
Health & Safety Food Access & Nutrition HS-4 LA-10 Implement an “Increase Your Food Bucks” program for farmers
markets
Health & Safety Indoor Air Quality HS-5 LA-1 Prohibit smoking in all enclosed public places, including
restaurants, bars, and workplaces
Health & Safety Indoor Air Quality HS-5 LA-7
School district implements a system-wide IAQ management
program to monitor and address IAQ problems (Bonus: School
district has received an EPA Tools for Schools award or has been
recognized as an IAQ Champion in the past 3 years)
Health & Safety Natural & Human Hazards HS-6 LA-1
Develop a hazard mitigation action plan that includes an all-
hazard vulnerability assessment of the community’s primary
hazard threats
Health & Safety Natural & Human Hazards HS-6 LA-5 Adopt zoning regulations that limit development in areas of high
hazard vulnerability
Health & Safety Natural & Human Hazards HS-6 LA-6 Enact building codes with heightened standards for buildings in
areas of high hazard vulnerability
Health & Safety Natural & Human Hazards HS-6 LA-7 Create insurance or incentive structures to help equitably remove
residents from hazardous situations
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-YesOutcomes-Yes
Yes
Actions have been completed and data is tracked
Health & Safety Natural & Human Hazards HS-6 LA-8
Build or renovate locally-owned public facilities to meet higher
building code standards to be used as shelters, command centers,
and to set an example for the community
Health & Safety Natural & Human Hazards HS-6 LA-9 Implement highest priority utility improvements listed in hazard
mitigation plan
Health & Safety Safe Communities HS-7 LA-1
Conduct a survey of community perceptions of safety recognizing
that some crimes are not reported and to illuminate safety issues
that need to be addressed
Health & Safety Safe Communities HS-7 LA-2
Adopt a safe communities strategic plan with a comprehensive,
balanced approach that includes violence prevention,
intervention, suppression and enforcement, and reentry
strategies
Health & Safety Safe Communities HS-7 LA-3 Educate the public and the media about the plan, its
implementation, and successful programs and strategies
Health & Safety Safe Communities HS-7 LA-4
Develop partnerships with local agencies, nonprofit
organizations, schools, and residents to implement the strategies
and
programs recommended in the plan
Health & Safety Safe Communities HS-7 LA-5 Establish cross-agency coordination and procedures to support
balanced implementation of the plan
Health & Safety Safe Communities HS-7 LA-6
Perform ongoing data collection, evaluation, and monitoring from
multiple agencies to track trends and identify emerging
community needs
Health & Safety Safe Communities HS-7 LA-7 Implement violence prevention programs and strategies to
address community-identified risk and protective factors
Health & Safety Safe Communities HS-7 LA-8
Implement school-based violence prevention programs and
strategies, particularly in highly impacted, urban, and at-risk
neighborhoods
Health & Safety Safe Communities HS-7 LA-9
Develop violence intervention programs and strategies to support
at-risk families and youth and to prevent the escalation of
violence
Health & Safety Safe Communities HS-7 LA-10
Adopt violence suppression and enforcement programs and
strategies that build trust through community collaboration,
rapid, multi-sector response to violent incidents, and full
investigations following the use of force
Health & Safety Safe Communities HS-7 LA-11
Create or support a multi-faceted, monitored reentry program for
ex-offenders that includes training, education, mentoring, and
employment opportunities and other support services to reduce
recidivism
Health & Safety Emergency Prevention & Response HS-3 LA-5
Adopt local emergency operations plans and standard operating
procedures for emergency response that address environmental
damage mitigation, cleanup, and restoration; and include
procedures for evacuating low-income, disabled, and
other persons likely to need assistance
Natural Systems Invasive Species NS-2 LA-1 Develop a community-wide invasive species integrated pest
management plan
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-YesOutcomes-Yes
Yes
Actions have been completed and data is tracked
Natural Systems Invasive Species NS-2 LA-2
Adopt a local ordinance requiring control of listed priority
invasive species or enact a native plant ordinance for private and
public landscaping
Natural Systems Invasive Species NS-2 LA-3
Partner with local volunteer groups or neighborhood associations
to restore priority natural systems areas by planting native plant
communities
Natural Systems Invasive Species NS-2 LA-4
Partner with local volunteer groups to monitor vector zones or
areas at greatest risk of invasive species invasion, and organize
“weed pulls” and other invasive management actions
Natural Systems Invasive Species NS-2 LA-5
Create a public education campaign or targeted outreach effort
to inform residents and/or plant or animal sellers about the
hazards of invasive species
Natural Systems Invasive Species NS-2 LA-9
Take critical actions to prevent the spread of invasive species,
especially in priority natural systems areas, such as monitoring,
eradication, or other control programs
Natural Systems Natural Resource Protection NS-3 LA-1
Develop a plan to protect and restore natural resources through
land conservation, corridor connectivity, and restoration
of biological integrity and function
Natural Systems Natural Resource Protection NS-3 LA-2 Adopt land use regulations that establish appropriate wetland,
stream, and shoreline buffer widths and adjacent land uses
Natural Systems Natural Resource Protection NS-3 LA-4
Partner with adjacent jurisdictions, state and federal agencies,
and local or regional non-profit organizations to advance
land conservation and restoration efforts
Natural Systems Natural Resource Protection NS-3 LA-5
Sponsor educational and outreach activities to increase ecological
literacy and knowledge about natural resource
protection
Natural Systems Natural Resource Protection NS-3 LA-8
Restore, maintain, and monitor conserved natural lands to
increase natural resource resilience, adaptability, and biological
integrity
Natural Systems Outdoor Air Quality NS-4 LA-1
Adopt regulatory strategies that permit or incentivize increased
residential and employment densities and diverse uses in transit-
served areas and areas identified for compact, mixed-use
development
Natural Systems Outdoor Air Quality NS-4 LA-2
Adopt performance-based parking pricing, establish parking
maximums, or eliminate parking minimums in transit-served
areas and areas identified for compact, mixed-use development,
AND incorporate at least 2 other advanced parking strategies
Natural Systems Outdoor Air Quality NS-4 LA-3
In collaboration with a local university or health department,
conduct a study to evaluate the health impacts of acute exposure
to outdoor air pollutants, particularly in consideration of
environmental justice and equity impacts
Natural Systems Outdoor Air Quality NS-4 LA-4 Collaborate with local industrial operations to reduce and
minimize the release of noxious odors in the community
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-YesOutcomes-Yes
Yes
Actions have been completed and data is tracked
Natural Systems Outdoor Air Quality NS-4 LA-5
Partner with a local or regional organization to support one or
more transportation management association(s) that promote
rideshare programs and incentives for commuters to use
alternative modes of transportation to work other than single-
occupancy vehicles
Natural Systems Outdoor Air Quality NS-4 LA-6
Educate the public about the impacts of poor air quality on
human health and the natural environment and the efforts they
can take to reduce pollution and exposure
Natural Systems Outdoor Air Quality NS-4 LA-7
Enforce anti-idling regulations or burning restrictions to prevent
emission of excess pollution, particularly on Air Quality
Action Days
Natural Systems Outdoor Air Quality NS-4 LA-8 Improve traffic signal timing or upgrade intersections to relieve
congestion
Natural Systems Outdoor Air Quality NS-4 LA-9 Increase the mileage of sidewalks and dedicated bicycle
infrastructure that connect people with destinations
Natural Systems Outdoor Air Quality NS-4 LA-10 Create or enhance programs aimed at increasing tree canopy
through active planting or direct tree protections
Natural Systems Outdoor Air Quality NS-4 LA-11 Implement targeted programs to encourage residents to
transition to cleaner products
Natural Systems Water in the Environment NS-5 LA-1
Adopt a watershed management plan that integrates natural
water bodies with human water use and addresses inputs
and outputs of the water systems
Natural Systems Water in the Environment NS-5 LA-2
Adopt community regulations that protect water quality OR
participate in a regional pollutant trading program that
reduces watershed pollution levels
Natural Systems Water in the Environment NS-5 LA-3 Create partnerships to address sources of ambient water
pollution not covered by local authority or control
Natural Systems Water in the Environment NS-5 LA-4 Create an education campaign about ambient water quality,
pollution prevention, mitigation, and restoration techniques
Natural Systems Water in the Environment NS-5 LA-6 Engage in restoration projects for critical water bodies and buffer
zones that protect those water bodies
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Climate &
Energy Greenhouse Gas Mitigation CE-2 O-1 12 20
Demonstrate incremental progress towards achieving an 80% reduction in
community-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 [Partial Credit
available]
Climate &
Energy Climate Adaptation CE-1 LA-1 Adopt a climate change adaptation plan
Climate &
Energy Greening the Energy Supply CE-3 O-1 5.3 5.3
Part 1: Demonstrate increased ownership of alternative fuel vehicles by
residents over time --AND-- Demonstrate increased ownership of fuel-
efficient vehicles by residents over time ---BONUS--- Demonstrate a
decreased percentage of residents who own motor vehicles
Climate &
Energy Climate Adaptation CE-1 LA-3
Develop a committee that includes climate scientists, adjacent jurisdictions,
regional coalitions, state and federal agencies, and/or non-governmental
organizations for the purpose of understanding and addressing shared
vulnerabilities
Climate &
Energy Greening the Energy Supply CE-3 O-2 1.8 5.3 Demonstrate that the community receives a portion of its overall energy
supply from renewable energy sources [graduated credit available
Climate &
Energy Climate Adaptation CE-1 LA-4 Create an education and outreach campaign to engage citizens and
businesses in climate change vulnerability reduction efforts
Climate &
Energy Greenhouse Gas Mitigation CE-2 LA-2 Require GHG emissions to be considered in broader local government
planning processes and decision-making
Climate &
Energy Greenhouse Gas Mitigation CE-2 LA-3 Create an education and outreach campaign to engage citizens and
businesses in GHG reduction efforts
Climate &
Energy Greenhouse Gas Mitigation CE-2 LA-5 Modify local government operations and facilities in order to reduce GHG
emissions and serve as a leader in the community
Climate &
Energy Greenhouse Gas Mitigation CE-2 LA-7 Create incentives to improve reliance on distributed generation of
renewable energy sources
Economy &
Jobs Targeted Industry Development EJ-5 LA-4
Coordinate with universities, community colleges, the local Workforce
Investment Board, private firms, and other community stakeholders to align
research, workforce development, and resources to support targeted
industry sectors
Economy &
Jobs Targeted Industry Development EJ-5 LA-6 Use tax incentives to attract, retain, or expand businesses in targeted
industry sectors
Built
Environment Ambient Noise & Light BE-1 LA-5
Develop a database of noise complaints and noise measurements (e.g.
roads, industrial, outdoor music venues) or of light issues and
neighborhoods targeted for improvements
Built
Environment Ambient Noise & Light BE-1 LA-6 Establish clear lines of authority for enforcement of nuisance noise
violations relative to different noise sources
Built
Environment Ambient Noise & Light BE-1 LA-7
Enforce noise standards during the permitting, design, and construction of
new large-scale developments that can significantly increase ambient noise
levels
Built
Environment Ambient Noise & Light BE-1 LA-8
Enforce light standards during the permitting, design, and construction of
new large-scale developments that can significantly increase ambient light
levels
Built
Environment Community Water Systems BE-2 LA-2 Adopt policies to ensure that the jurisdiction has the authority to enact
water conservation measures during periods of drought
Built
Environment Community Water Systems BE-2 LA-3 Collaborate with a regional water management group that includes other
jurisdictions that share the same water sources
Health &
Safety Active Living HS-1 LA-10 Provide at least 3 types of active recreation facilities that are available for
community use, by population size
Health &
Safety Emergency Prevention & Response HS-3 LA-2
Publish information to encourage residents to develop emergency kits and
evacuation plans and encourage businesses to develop emergency
procedures and shelter-in-place plans
Health &
Safety Emergency Prevention & Response HS-3 LA-10 Distribute emergency kits or supplies to residents, particularly low-income
and vulnerable populations
Health &
Safety Natural & Human Hazards HS-6 LA-3 Increase community awareness of natural hazards through education and
outreach materials
Natural
Systems Green Infrastructure NS-1 LA-6 Establish a green infrastructure monitoring program and regularly report on
status of desired outcomes
Local Actions-Yes, AvailableOutcomes-Yes, Available
Yes, Available
These actions have not been completed because of incomplete data
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-Yes, AvailableOutcomes-Yes, Available
Yes, Available
These actions have not been completed because of incomplete data
Natural
Systems Green Infrastructure NS-1 LA-8
Upgrade public spaces and public buildings based upon locally-adopted or
recognized best practices in green infrastructure. Where possible, create
demonstration projects to enhance public support
Natural
Systems Green Infrastructure NS-1 LA-9 Provide for ongoing maintenance of green infrastructure at levels required
to maintain evapotranspiring functions
Natural
Systems Invasive Species NS-2 LA-8 Ensure that all local government-owned buildings use native plants or non-
invasive species in landscaping
Natural
Systems Natural Resource Protection NS-3 LA-6 Adopt land use strategies to incentivize permanent land conservation
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Climate &
Energy Climate Adaptation CE-1 O-1 0 10.5 Demonstrate a measurable reduction in vulnerability in each of
the 4 core areas identified locally [ partial credit available]
Climate &
Energy Greenhouse Gas Mitigation CE-2 LA-1 Adopt a Climate Action Plan designed to reduce GHG emissions throughout the
jurisdiction
Economy & Jobs Business Retention &
Development EJ-1 O-1 0 6.7
Option A: Demonstrate an increased number of business
establishments in the county over time --OR-- Option B:
Demonstrate an increased number of business establishments
in the municipality over time
Climate &
Energy Greenhouse Gas Mitigation CE-2 LA-4 Develop a climate mitigation task force that includes the largest emitters in the
community and engages them in identifying and developing reduction strategies
Economy & Jobs Business Retention &
Development EJ-1 O-2 6.7 6.7 Demonstrate an increase in annual sales from businesses
located in the jurisdiction over time
Climate &
Energy Greenhouse Gas Mitigation CE-2 LA-8
Implement specific programs and services or create facility upgrades that transition the
community towards the use of alternatives modes of transportation and low-emissions
vehicles
Economy & Jobs Business Retention &
Development EJ-1 O-3 0 6.7
Part 1: Demonstrate an increase in the percentage of residents
employed over time --AND-- Demonstrate a decrease in the
unemployment rate of residents over time
Climate &
Energy Greening the Energy Supply CE-3 LA-2
Create a green purchase policy to ensure that the local government’s transportation
and non-transportation energy supply increasingly come from renewable and
alternative sources
Economy & Jobs Green Market Development EJ-2 O-1 2.6 2.6 Demonstrate decreased greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity over
time.
Climate &
Energy Greening the Energy Supply CE-3 LA-5 Support a strong renewable portfolio standard for the investor-owned utility that
would help it achieve a 50% renewable energy target
Economy & Jobs Green Market Development EJ-2 O-3 0 2.6 Demonstrate an increased number of renewable energy
certificates (RECs) purchased by residents annually
Climate &
Energy Greening the Energy Supply CE-3 LA-6
Create incentive programs to support the development of renewable and alternative
fuel infrastructure, such as electrical vehicle charging stations and small scale solar
projects
Economy & Jobs Local Economy EJ-3 O-2 4.2 5.3 Increase the total funds deposited in locally owned and
operated financial institutions over time
Climate &
Energy Resource Efficient Buildings CE-5 LA-1 Adopt a building energy efficiency plan to improve the energy and water efficiency of
commercial, residential, and institutional buildings in the community
Economy & Jobs Quality Jobs & Living Wages EJ-4 O-1 0 10 Increase real median household income over time Climate &
Energy Resource Efficient Buildings CE-5 LA-10 Renovate local government buildings to improve energy and water use efficiency
Economy & Jobs Targeted Industry Development EJ-5 O-1 3.5 3.5 Increase the total number of new businesses in targeted
industry sectors over time
Climate &
Energy
Resource Efficient Public
Infrastructure CE-6 LA-1 Develop targeted strategies to improve the resource efficiency of public infrastructure
systems
Economy & Jobs Targeted Industry Development EJ-5 O-2 0 3.5 Increase the annual sales or total value of businesses in
targeted industry sectors over time
Climate &
Energy
Resource Efficient Public
Infrastructure CE-6 LA-2
Require public infrastructure managers to consider thorough greenhouse gas and
water consumption implications when designing and installing new infrastructure
components
Economy & Jobs Targeted Industry Development EJ-5 O-3 2.3 3.5 Increase total employment in targeted industry sectors over
time
Climate &
Energy
Resource Efficient Public
Infrastructure CE-6 LA-3 Adopt codes or design standards for new public infrastructure that will reduce GHG
emissions and increase water efficiency
Economy & Jobs Workforce Readiness EJ-6 O-1 0 5.3 Demonstrate improvements in workforce training outcomes
for participants over the past 3 years
Climate &
Energy
Resource Efficient Public
Infrastructure CE-6 LA-4 Partner with state or regional entities that own or operate infrastructure within the
jurisdiction to develop strategies to reduce energy and water usage
Economy & Jobs Workforce Readiness EJ-6 O-2 0 5.3 Demonstrate increased post-secondary educational attainment
in the community over time
Climate &
Energy
Resource Efficient Public
Infrastructure CE-6 LA-5 Engage public infrastructure systems managers in participating directly in or partner
with voluntary GHG reporting programs
Education, Arts
& Community Arts & Culture EAC-1 O-1 0 7.5 Demonstrate that creative industries represent at least a 5%
share of all businesses in the county
Climate &
Energy Waste Minimization CE-7 LA-5 Implement incentives or enforce regulations ensuring that residents and businesses are
working toward community waste reductions targets
Education, Arts
& Community Arts & Culture EAC-1 O-2 0 7.5
Part 1: Demonstrate that at least 35% of adult residents in the
county attend a live performing arts event annually --AND--
Part 2: Demonstrate that at least 20% of adult residents in the
county visit an art museum annually [partial credit available]
Economy & Jobs Business Retention &
Development EJ-1 LA-2 Formally engage with the business community on a regular basis to improve
conditions and address specific needs
Education, Arts
& Community Community Cohesion EAC-2 O-2 3.2 3.2
Demonstrate an increased percentage of neighborhoods
reporting positive levels of neighborhood cohesion through
community surveys
Economy & Jobs Business Retention &
Development EJ-1 LA-3 Appoint an advisory body to provide recommendations and represent the
business community in local decision-making
Education, Arts
& Community
Educational Opportunity &
Attainment EAC-3 O-1 6.7 6.7 Demonstrate at least 85% of third grade public school students
meet or exceed reading proficiency Economy & Jobs Business Retention &
Development EJ-1 LA-5 Utilize tax incentives to retain or expand businesses, including property tax
abatement, local sales tax rebates, and/or tax increment financing (TIF)
Education, Arts
& Community
Educational Opportunity &
Attainment EAC-3 O-2 6.7 6.7 Achieve a 90% average 4-year adjusted cohort high school
graduation rate for all public schools in the jurisdiction Economy & Jobs Business Retention &
Development EJ-1 LA-6 Provide direct financial assistance to businesses in the form of municipal bonds,
grants, or loans
Outcomes-Yes, Maybe
Yes, Maybe
Incomplete actions because they would require change in staff priorities
Local Actions-Yes, Maybe
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Outcomes-Yes, Maybe
Yes, Maybe
Incomplete actions because they would require change in staff priorities
Local Actions-Yes, Maybe
Education, Arts
& Community
Educational Opportunity &
Attainment EAC-3 O-3 6.7 6.7
Increase the average 4-year adjusted cohort high school
graduation rate for al students in all public schools in the
jurisdiction from selected underperforming groups of
race/ethnicity, disability, English proficiency, or income
Economy & Jobs Business Retention &
Development EJ-1 LA-8 Provide direct services and trainings tailored to the needs of the business
community
Education, Arts
& Community Social & Cultural Diversity EAC-5 O-1 3.5 3.5
Demonstrate that appointments to local advisory boards and
commissions reflect the racial and ethnic diversity of the
community.
Economy & Jobs Green Market Development EJ-2 LA-1 Amend existing local economic policies and strategies to increase market
demand for green products and services
Built
Environment Community Water Systems BE-2 O-3 3.8 3.8
Part 1: Demonstrate that all publicly owned treatment works
(POTWs) are in compliance with EPA effluent guidelines
permits --AND-- Part 2: Demonstrate that existing industrial
dischargers are in compliance with EPA permits
Economy & Jobs Green Market Development EJ-2 LA-3 Review and amend zoning regulations to remove barriers or provide flexibility
for green businesses
Built
Environment Infill & Redevelopment BE-5 O-1 0 5
Option A: Increase the percentage of new development in
locally designated infill and redevelopment areas
--OR--
Option B: Increase the percentage of new development located
on infill, previously developed, brownfield, and greyfield sites
Economy & Jobs Green Market Development EJ-2 LA-4
Create a green purchase policy to ensure that the local government’s
transportation and non-transportation energy supplies increasingly come from
renewable and alternative sources
Built
Environment Transportation Choices BE-7 O-3 5 5 Demonstrate that pedestrian and bicyclists fatalities are
making incremental progress towards zero fatalities by 2040 Economy & Jobs Green Market Development EJ-2 LA-6
Create educational materials to define the larger vision of economic
sustainability as one that proactively fosters green businesses, green jobs, and
green practices
Built
Environment
Compact & Complete
Communities BE-3 O-1 10
Demonstrate that each CCC achieves the following:
Residential Density: Average of at least 12 dwelling units per
acre within a 1/4 mile walk distance of bus rapid transit stops,
light or heavy rail stations, or ferry terminals;
Average of at least 7 dwelling units per acre within the rest of
the CCC boundary.
Employment Density: At least 25 jobs per acre.
Diverse Uses: At least 7 diverse uses present.
Transit Availability: At least 60 weekday trips and 40 weekend
trips
Economy & Jobs Green Market Development EJ-2 LA-7
Create an environmentally preferable purchasing program for local
government procurement of safe, healthy, and environmentally responsible
products
Built
Environment
Compact & Complete
Communities BE-3 O-2 3
Demonstrate that each CCC achieves the following thresholds:
90% of roadways contain sidewalks on both sides
100% of crosswalks are ADA accessible
60% of block faces contain street trees at no more than 40 feet
intervals
70% of roadways are designed for a travel speed of no more
than 25 mph
Minimum intersection density of 90 intersections per square
mile
Economy & Jobs Green Market Development EJ-2 LA-9 Implement a green business promotion program
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Outcomes-Yes, Maybe
Yes, Maybe
Incomplete actions because they would require change in staff priorities
Local Actions-Yes, Maybe
Built
Environment
Compact & Complete
Communities BE-3 O-4 4
Demonstrate that each CCC achieves the following thresholds:
10% of total residential units are affordable
10% of residential units build or substantially rehabilitated
within the last 3 years are dedicated as subsidized affordable
housing
Some of the dedicated long term affordable housing units are
deeply subsidized or deeply affordable for very and extremely
low income households
Economy & Jobs Green Market Development EJ-2 LA-10 Install electrical vehicle charging station
Equity &
Empowerment Environmental Justice EE-3 O-1 0 10.5
Demonstrate progress towards achieving targets for prioritized
environmental justice sites identified in a locally adopted plan
[Partial Credit Available]
Economy & Jobs Local Economy EJ-3 LA-2 Adopt an economic localization plan to increase local production for local
consumption and export
Equity &
Empowerment Equitable Services & Access EE-4 O-1 0 14
Demonstrate increased access and proximity by residents of
diverse income levels and race/ethnicity to the following
community facilities, services, and infrastructure: Public transit
facilities and service levels; Public Libraries; Public Schools;
Public Spaces; Healthful food; Health and human services;
Digital access or high speed internet; Urban Tree canopy;
Emergency response times
Economy & Jobs Local Economy EJ-3 LA-4 Create or support promotional campaigns to bank locally, buy locally, or buy
from small and independent businesses and retailers
Health & Safety Community Health & Health
System HS-2 O-1 4.4 5
Demonstrate that the county is ranked in the top 15% in the
state in regards to morbidity and mortality [Partial Credit
Available]
Economy & Jobs Local Economy EJ-3 LA-7 Connect entrepreneurs and business owners with lenders and investors to
facilitate investment in the local economy
Health & Safety Community Health & Health
System HS-2 O-2 5 5
Demonstrate that the county is ranked in the top 15% in the
state in regards to key behaviors that impact health [Partial
Credit Available]
Economy & Jobs Local Economy EJ-3 LA-8 Support import substitution strategies that positively impact key sectors of the
local economy
Health & Safety Community Health & Health
System HS-2 O-3 5 5
Demonstrate that the county is ranked in the top 15% in
regards to quality of clinical care, including access to health
care [Partial Credit Available]
Built
Environment Ambient Noise & Light BE-1 LA-3 Educate the public about standards, effects of excessive exposure, and mitigation
techniques for ambient noise or ambient light
Natural Systems Natural Resource Protection NS-3 O-1 0 3.5
Option A: Achieve targets for acres of land conserved in priority
natural systems areas identified in a locally adopted natural
systems or land conservation plan --OR-- Option B:
Demonstrate incremental progress towards achievement of
targets for acres of land conserved identified in a locally-
adopted natural systems or land conservation plan
Built
Environment Ambient Noise & Light BE-1 LA-4 Create partnerships to address sources of noise and/or light pollution not subject to
the local authority
Natural Systems Natural Resource Protection NS-3 O-3 0 3.5 Increase the area of land directly connected to regional natural
systems in order to improve ecosystem services
Built
Environment Ambient Noise & Light BE-1 LA-9 Establish programs that eliminate existing sources of light pollution coming from
municipally-owned entities
Natural Systems Invasive Species NS-2 O-1 0 2.3
Show that no new invasive species have established
themselves in the last 5 years in priority natural systems areas
and critical entry points
Built
Environment Public Spaces BE-6 LA-2 Conduct a study regarding the economic impact of parks and public spaces on the local
economy to understand their contributions to community satisfaction and tourism
Natural Systems Invasive Species NS-2 O-2 0 2.3 Show that existing invasive species have not moved into
priority natural systems areas and critical entry points
Equity &
Empowerment Civil & Human Rights EE-2 LA-5 Provide training for police officers focused on non-discrimination and conflict
prevention
Natural Systems Invasive Species NS-2 O-3 0 2.3
Option A: Eradicate existing invasive species from priority
natural systems areas and critical entry points --OR-- Option B:
Demonstrate progress towards targets identified in the
community's local integrated pest management plan [Partial
credit applies]
Health & Safety Active Living HS-1 LA-3
Create guidelines to encourage incorporation of active building design features in new
public, commercial, office, and
multi-family residential buildings
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Outcomes-Yes, Maybe
Yes, Maybe
Incomplete actions because they would require change in staff priorities
Local Actions-Yes, Maybe
Natural Systems Natural Resource Protection NS-3 O-4 0 3.5
Reduce the difference between the actual acreage restored
and targeted acreage established in the natural systems plan or
land conservation plan
Health & Safety Active Living HS-1 LA-6 Achieve recognition as a Bicycle-Friendly Community or Walk-Friendly Community
Natural Systems Water in the Environment NS-5 O-1 0 5
Demonstrate that the amount of water withdrawn from the
system for human use does not exceed the amount of
freshwater entering the system through precipitation, river
flow, and other sources
Health & Safety Community Health & Health
System HS-2 LA-1
Conduct a comprehensive community health assessment, which includes data
collection and analysis of public health conditions, trends, and problems affecting the
community
Natural Systems Water in the Environment NS-5 O-2 0 5
Achieve a biological integrity rating of 'Very good' or 'good'
based on the EPA's 305(b) reporting requirements for all bodies
of water with appropriate designated uses
Health & Safety Indoor Air Quality HS-5 LA-4 Conduct local public education campaigns regarding prevention and safe remediation
of common indoor air pollutants
Natural Systems Green Infrastructure NS-1 LA-1 Create a community-wide green infrastructure plan that is integrated with other
relevant local plans
Natural Systems Green Infrastructure NS-1 LA-4 Partner with key community groups and other stakeholders to ensure that green
infrastructure practices are used in appropriate settings
Natural Systems Green Infrastructure NS-1 LA-5 Create incentive programs to encourage land owners to adopt green infrastructure
practices that link to broader green infrastructure systems
Natural Systems Green Infrastructure NS-1 LA-7 Increase the percentage of funding invested in green infrastructure government
departments or agencies
Natural Systems Natural Resource Protection NS-3 LA-3
Create an advisory board with scientific experts and other local stakeholders to inform
land conservation and
restoration activities
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Climate &
Energy
Industrial Sector
Resource Efficiency CE-4 O-1 0 7
Demonstrate incremental progress towards achieving an 80%
reduction by 2050 in the energy use of industrial sector operations
[partial credit available]
Climate &
Energy Climate Adaptation CE-1 LA-2 Require that internal decisions by local government departments use the most current
climate science and that staff monitor climate change impacts
Climate &
Energy
Industrial Sector
Resource Efficiency CE-4 O-2 0 3
Demonstrate incremental progress towards achieving an 80%
reduction by 2050 in the water use of industrial sector operations
[partial credit available]
Climate &
Energy Climate Adaptation CE-1 LA-6 Create or enhance programs and services that specifically help address climate change
threats
Climate &
Energy
Resource Efficient
Buildings CE-5 O-1 0 6
Demonstrate incremental progress towards achieving an 80%
reduction by 2050 in the energy use intensity of the community's
building stock [partial credit available]
Climate &
Energy Climate Adaptation CE-1 LA-7 Enforce regulations or offer incentives to encourage residents and businesses to shift
behaviors to prepare for future climate change impacts
Climate &
Energy
Resource Efficient
Buildings CE-5 O-2 0 6
Demonstrate incremental progress towards achieving an 80%
reduction by 2050 in the water use intensity of the community's
building stock [partial credit available]
Climate &
Energy Climate Adaptation CE-1 LA-8 Improve facilities throughout the community to be better prepared for climate change
threats
Climate &
Energy
Resource Efficient
Buildings CE-5 O-3 0 3
Part 1: Increase over time the percentage of non-residential
buildings achieving certification in STAR-qualifying energy
efficiency and green construction programs --AND-- Part 2:
Increase over time the percentage of residential units achieving
certification in STAR-qualifying energy efficiency and green
construction programs
Climate &
Energy Greening the Energy Supply CE-3 LA-1
Adopt a community-wide plan that includes a comprehensive programmatic and policy
approach to shift the community towards alternative fuels and renewable energy sources,
especially for non-transportation uses
Climate &
Energy
Resource Efficient Public
Infrastructure CE-6 O-1 0 7
Demonstrate incremental progress towards achieving an 80%
reduction by 2050 in energy use by selected public infrastructure
[partial credit available]
Climate &
Energy Greening the Energy Supply CE-3 LA-4 Establish partnerships with critical energy providers and consumers to match energy sources
with community energy needs
Climate &
Energy
Resource Efficient Public
Infrastructure CE-6 O-2 0 3
Demonstrate incremental progress towards achieving an 80%
reduction by 2050 in water use by selected public infrastructure
[partial credit available]
Climate &
Energy
Industrial Sector Resource
Efficiency CE-4 LA-3 Adopt regulations to require energy use intensity and water use intensity reductions
Climate &
Energy Waste Minimization CE-7 O-1 0 15
Demonstrate incremental progress towards achieving a 100%
reduction by 2050 in total solid waste generated within the
jurisdiction that is disposed of via landfill or incinerator [partial
credit available]
Climate &
Energy
Industrial Sector Resource
Efficiency CE-4 LA-5 Work collaboratively with local industrial sector leaders to set local targets and strategies to
reduce energy and water use
Economy &
Jobs
Green Market
Development EJ-2 O-2 0 2.6
Part 1: Increase over time the percentage of non-residential
buildings achieving certification in STAR-qualifying energy
efficiency and green construction programs --AND-- Part 2:
Increase over time the percentage of residential units achieving
certification in STAR-qualifying energy efficiency and green
construction programs
Climate &
Energy
Industrial Sector Resource
Efficiency CE-4 LA-6 Create training and educational opportunities for industrial sector employees to learn about
current best practices and techniques for reducing energy and water use
Economy &
Jobs
Green Market
Development EJ-2 O-4 0 2.6
Part 1: Demonstrate increased ownership of alternative fuel
vehicles by residents over time --AND-- Demonstrate increased
ownership of fuel-efficient vehicles by residents over time
Climate &
Energy Resource Efficient Buildings CE-5 LA-5 Establish a committee to provide recommendations on policies related to resource efficiency
in buildings OR integrate this role into the work of existing committees
Economy &
Jobs Local Economy EJ-3 O-1 0 5.3 Demonstrate that 50% of import sectors have increasing location
quotients over the past 3 years
Climate &
Energy Resource Efficient Buildings CE-5 LA-6 Work with the local utilities to improve energy efficiency programs and increase sub-
metering throughout the community
Education, Arts,
& Community Historic Preservation EAC-4 O-1 0 1.4 Designate at least one local historic district with specific design
standards and a process for reviewing new projects
Climate &
Energy Resource Efficient Buildings CE-5 LA-8 Create incentives to encourage the construction of energy and water efficient certified
buildings
Education, Arts,
& Community Historic Preservation EAC-4 O-2 0 2.1
Increase over time the annual number of eligible structures and
sites designated as local historic landmarks, added to local historic
districts, and/or rehabilitated, restored, or converted through
adaptive reuse
Climate &
Energy
Resource Efficient Public
Infrastructure CE-6 LA-6 Develop training programs for infrastructure operators on energy and water efficiency
techniques
Education, Arts,
& Community Historic Preservation EAC-4 O-3 0 2.1
Increase over time the annual number of historic structures
retrofitted or rehabilitated with energy efficiency or clean energy
technologies
Climate &
Energy
Resource Efficient Public
Infrastructure CE-6 LA-7 Make specific upgrades to infrastructure systems that will increase energy and water
efficiency
Local Actions-ResearchOutcomes-Research
Research
Actions incomplete and would require more research to determine feasibility
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-ResearchOutcomes-Research
Research
Actions incomplete and would require more research to determine feasibility
Education, Arts,
& Community Historic Preservation EAC-4 O-4 0 1.4 Demonstrate that historic preservation efforts have had a positive,
measurable impact on the local economy.
Climate &
Energy
Resource Efficient Public
Infrastructure CE-6 LA-8 Increase sub-metering from specific infrastructure systems to collect better information on
energy and water use
Education, Arts,
& Community
Social & Cultural
Diversity EAC-5 O-2 0 3.5 Demonstrate that public events celebrating social and cultural
diversity are held in the community
Climate &
Energy Waste Minimization CE-7 LA-9 Create a waste-to-energy conversion system for the community
Built
Environment
Community Water
Systems BE-2 O-2 0 3.8
Part 1: Demonstrate that the height of the water table for
subsurface aquifers has been stable or rising --AND-- Part 2:
Demonstrate that the height of the surface waters is within the
range to meet expected demand for the next 5 years or is rising
Economy &
Jobs
Business Retention &
Development EJ-1 LA-1 Negotiate project labor agreements, community benefit agreements, and local hiring
agreements
Built
Environment
Compact & Complete
Communities BE-3 O-3 3
Demonstrate that each CCC achieves the following thresholds:
80% of front building setbacks along primary single-family
residential blocks are not more than 25 feet from the property line
80% of front building setbacks along primarily commercial blocks
are not more than 10 feet from the property line 40%
of primarily commercial blocks have ground floor street frontages
free from blank walls and loading docks, and do not have
structured or surface parking as the principal land use along the
street
Economy &
Jobs
Business Retention &
Development EJ-1 LA-4 Engage in regional coordination with other governmental, public, private, and non-
governmental entities to attract and retain businesses in the region
Built
Environment Housing Affordability BE-4 O-1 0 6
Part 1: Demonstrate that there are at least 80% of Census block
groups where a household earning the Area Median Income would
spend less than 45% on housing and transportation combined
Part 2: Demonstrate that there are at least 60% of Census block
groups where a household earning 80% AMI would spend less than
45% on housing and transportation combined.
Economy &
Jobs Quality Jobs & Living Wages EJ-4 LA-4 Align local economic development policy strategies with workforce development
programs
Built
Environment Housing Affordability BE-4 O-2 0 4.5
Option A: Achieve targets for creation of new affordable housing
units identified in a locally adopted comprehensive housing
strategy. --OR--
Option B: Demonstrate that 10% of residential units built or
substantially rehabilitated in the past 3 years in the community's
Compact & Complete Centers are dedicated as subsidized
affordable housing
Economy &
Jobs
Targeted Industry
Development EJ-5 LA-1 Conduct a local economic analysis or participate in the development of a regional
analysis of existing industry sectors to understand current needs and opportunities
Built
Environment Housing Affordability BE-4 O-3 0 4.5 Demonstrate no loss of subsidized affordable housing units due to
expiring subsidies in the past 3 years.
Economy &
Jobs
Targeted Industry
Development EJ-5 LA-8 Provide capacity building services and support for professionals in emerging and
existing targeted industry sectors
Built
Environment Transportation Choices BE-7 O-1 0 10
Achieve the following thresholds for journey-to-work trips:
Drive alone maximum: 60%
Bike + Walk + Transit minimum: 25%
Bike + Walk minimum: 5%
Education, Arts,
& Community Arts & Culture EAC-1 LA-1 Adopt a strategic plan to protect, enhance, and expand the community’s arts and cultural
resources and strengthen creative industries
Built
Environment Transportation Choices BE-7 O-2 0 5
Show that at least 50% of households in the jurisdiction are
estimated to spend less than 15% of income on transportation
costs
Education, Arts,
& Community Arts & Culture EAC-1 LA-2 Adopt a percent-for-art ordinance requiring public art to be installed as part of new major
development projects
Equity &
Empowerment Civic Engagement EE-1 O-1 4.2 4.2
Part 1: Increase the percentage of registered voters over time --
AND-- Part 2: Increase the percentage of voters participating in
local elections over time
Education, Arts,
& Community Arts & Culture EAC-1 LA-3
Establish enterprise zones, arts or cultural districts, or overlay zoning that encourages
businesses in the creative industries
to cluster together and integrate with surrounding neighborhoods
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-ResearchOutcomes-Research
Research
Actions incomplete and would require more research to determine feasibility
Equity &
Empowerment Civic Engagement EE-1 O-2 0 3.2
Option A: Demonstrate that at least 30% of residents in large
jurisdictions or 35% of residents in small or mid-sized jurisdictions
volunteered in the past year --OR-- Option B: Demonstrate an
increase in the percentage of residents who volunteered over the
past 3 years [Partial credit applies]
Education, Arts,
& Community Arts & Culture EAC-1 LA-8
Develop special programs to advance arts education that is aligned with core curriculum in all
public schools, especially
early elementary grades
Health & Safety Active Living HS-1 O-2 0 5.3
Option A: Increase the percentage of high school students that are
physically active for 60 minutes per day on 5 or more days per
week. --OR-- Option B: Increase the percentage of public schools
that require some form of physical activity daily, such as physical
education classes or recess [partial credit applies]
Education, Arts,
& Community Community Cohesion EAC-2 LA-1
Adopt neighborhood plans that guide future development, recommend strategies to create
or preserve community
venues, and address neighborhood-specific issues
Health & Safety Community Health &
Health System HS-2 O-4 0 5
Option A: Demonstrate that at least one hospital in the county is
recognized as a top performer by the join Commission --OR--
Option B: Demonstrate that the local public health department is
accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB) --OR--
Option C: Demonstrate that at least 30% of the public health
clinicians are board certified in their specialty areas and ancillary
staff holds professional certification in their respective fields
[partial credit available]
Education, Arts,
& Community Community Cohesion EAC-2 LA-3
Provide access to information about community issues, programs, services, and activities that
is also accessible to non-
English speaking residents
Health & Safety Food Access & Nutrition HS-4 O-4 0 2.6
Demonstrate an increase over the past 3 years in the food service
sales of fresh fruits and vegetables in the largest public school
district
Education, Arts,
& Community Community Cohesion EAC-2 LA-4
Partner with neighborhood associations, community organizations, and local service
providers to identify and address
neighborhood-specific needs
Health & Safety Natural & Human
Hazards HS-6 O-2 Demonstrate increased resilience to community-wide threats over
time
Education, Arts,
& Community Community Cohesion EAC-2 LA-5
Support neighborhood advisory councils to encourage dialogue on community issues and
build the social capital of
neighborhoods
Natural
Systems
Natural Resource
Protection NS-3 O-2 0 3.5 Achieve no-net-loss of wetlands, streams, and shoreline buffers Education, Arts,
& Community Community Cohesion EAC-2 LA-6 Establish a department with staff assigned to work as liaisons with specific neighborhoods
Natural
Systems Working Lands NS-6 O-1 0 6.3
Option A: Use best management practices (BMP) on 100% of
working lands in the jurisdiction --OR-- Option B: Demonstrate 2-
5% increase in working lands utilizing BMPs over time [Partial
credit applies]
Education, Arts,
& Community Community Cohesion EAC-2 LA-8
Provide capacity-building programs to enable community leaders and groups to self-organize,
resolve issues, and cultivate
leadership
Natural
Systems Working Lands NS-6 O-2 0 4.2 Increase the number of certified sustainable harvesters for a
locally selected industry over time
Education, Arts,
& Community
Educational Opportunity &
Attainment EAC-3 LA-1
Engage local education authorities, teachers, families, and young people to advance
collaborative decision-making and a
community-driven framework for improving education
Education, Arts,
& Community
Educational Opportunity &
Attainment EAC-3 LA-2 Strengthen opportunities for parental and community involvement in schools
Education, Arts,
& Community
Educational Opportunity &
Attainment EAC-3 LA-8 Implement career pathway initiatives
Education, Arts,
& Community Historic Preservation EAC-4 LA-1
Create an inventory of designated and eligible historic structures and sites in the community
(Bonus: Inventory includes
archeological resources)
Education, Arts,
& Community Historic Preservation EAC-4 LA-2 Adopt a historic preservation plan that establishes community priorities for preservation
Education, Arts,
& Community Historic Preservation EAC-4 LA-3
Adopt a historic preservation ordinance that establishes procedures for designation of local
historic districts and
landmarks and authorizes establishment of a historic preservation commission
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-ResearchOutcomes-Research
Research
Actions incomplete and would require more research to determine feasibility
Education, Arts,
& Community Historic Preservation EAC-4 LA-6 Achieve Certified Local Government status, as recognized by the National Park Service
Education, Arts,
& Community Historic Preservation EAC-4 LA-7 Establish a demolition by neglect ordinance
Education, Arts,
& Community Historic Preservation EAC-4 LA-8
Provide incentives to encourage the rehabilitation of historic buildings and reinvestment in
older and historic
neighborhoods and commercial areas
Education, Arts,
& Community Historic Preservation EAC-4 LA-9
Provide local financial assistance to low- and moderate-income homeowners, residents,
seniors, and/or businesses
vulnerable to rising real estate values and maintenance costs associated with historic
preservation
Education, Arts,
& Community Historic Preservation EAC-4 LA-10
Provide technical assistance to property owners or non-profit organizations seeking to add
properties or historic
districts to the National Register of Historic Places or the comparable state register
Education, Arts,
& Community Social & Cultural Diversity EAC-5 LA-1 Conduct an assessment of the community’s social and cultural diversity to inform local
government actions
Education, Arts,
& Community Social & Cultural Diversity EAC-5 LA-2 Use the Diversity Index to analyze the effectiveness of policies, programs, service delivery,
and infrastructure investments
Education, Arts,
& Community Social & Cultural Diversity EAC-5 LA-3 Adopt a policy to encourage diversity in local government appointments to advisory boards
and commissions
Education, Arts,
& Community Social & Cultural Diversity EAC-5 LA-7
Provide leadership and training programs that encourage and support representation on local
boards and commissions
reflective of the community’s diversity
Education, Arts,
& Community Social & Cultural Diversity EAC-5 LA-8
Provide programs that support the development of positive, strong youth leaders,
particularly in low-income and/or
minority neighborhoods
Built
Environment Community Water Systems BE-2 LA-6 Create programs to guarantee the provision of water to low-income residents
Built
Environment
Compact & Complete
Communities BE-3 LA-4
Require walkability standards for new development that include sidewalks on both sides of
roadways, street trees, ADA accessible crosswalks, roadways compact, mixed-use
development designed for maximum travel speeds of 25 mph, and maximum block lengths in
transit served areas and areas identified for
Built
Environment
Compact & Complete
Communities BE-3 LA-5 Require build-to lines for commercial and residential structures in transit-served areas and
areas identified for compact, mixed-use development
Built
Environment
Compact & Complete
Communities BE-3 LA-6
Adopt performance-based parking pricing, establish parking maximums, or eliminate parking
minimums in transit-served areas and areas identified for compact, mixed-use development,
AND incorporate at least 2 other advanced parking strategies
Built
Environment
Compact & Complete
Communities BE-3 LA-7 Require, incentivize, or subsidize creation of affordable housing in transit-served areas and
areas identified for compact, mixed-use development
Built
Environment
Compact & Complete
Communities BE-3 LA-10 Increase the percentage of households with access to transit
Built
Environment Housing Affordability BE-4 LA-2 Analyze transit access and transportation costs for neighborhoods with housing affordable to
low- and moderate-income households
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-ResearchOutcomes-Research
Research
Actions incomplete and would require more research to determine feasibility
Built
Environment Housing Affordability BE-4 LA-3
When new transit or other major infrastructure investments are planned, analyze the
likelihood and extent to which housing costs are anticipated to increase be developed to
preserve and create long-term affordable housing in low- and moderate-income
neighborhoods so that appropriate strategies can
Built
Environment Housing Affordability BE-4 LA-5 Require, incentivize, or subsidize creation of affordable housing in transit-served areas and
areas identified for compact, mixed-use development
Built
Environment Transportation Choices BE-7 LA-2 Adopt a complete streets policy that addresses all users, applies to all projects with limited
exceptions, and includes specific next steps for implementation
Built
Environment Transportation Choices BE-7 LA-3 Subdivision and other development regulations require walkability standards that encourage
walking and enhance safety
Built
Environment Transportation Choices BE-7 LA-4 Local government offers employee incentives to encourage commuting by modes other than
single-occupancy vehicles
Built
Environment Transportation Choices BE-7 LA-6 Increase the percentage of households with access to transit
Equity &
Empowerment Civic Engagement EE-1 LA-1 Adopt a policy to encourage diversity in local government appointments to advisory boards
and commissions
Equity &
Empowerment Civic Engagement EE-1 LA-2 Adopt guidelines to instruct local government agencies or departments about how to
successfully engage residents
Equity &
Empowerment Civic Engagement EE-1 LA-3 Conduct education campaigns about the electoral process, voter registration and
participation, and other issues related to civic literacy
Equity &
Empowerment Civic Engagement EE-1 LA-4
Partner with business, civic, and neighborhood organizations to increase voter registration
and turnout OR volunteer opportunities and participation OR ongoing civic engagement in
local decision-making
Equity &
Empowerment Civic Engagement EE-1 LA-5 Provide training to local government agencies or departments on successful public
engagement techniques
Equity &
Empowerment Civic Engagement EE-1 LA-6 Establish regular, ongoing opportunities for elected officials and/or senior government staff
to meet with residents to answer questions and listen to concerns
Equity &
Empowerment Civic Engagement EE-1 LA-9 Create a mock youth voting program to teach children about democracy, elections, and the
importance of voting
Equity &
Empowerment Civil & Human Rights EE-2 LA-1 Adopt specific policies or amend the jurisdiction’s charter to specifically protect the civil and
human rights of all community residents
Equity &
Empowerment Civil & Human Rights EE-2 LA-2 Establish an office within the jurisdiction with the authority and capacity to investigate civil
and human rights complaints.
Equity &
Empowerment Civil & Human Rights EE-2 LA-3 Conduct local public education campaigns regarding civil and human rights, such as the
process for filing complaints
Equity &
Empowerment Civil & Human Rights EE-2 LA-4 Establish an independent civil and/or human rights commission with the authority and
capacity to investigate complaints
Equity &
Empowerment Civil & Human Rights EE-2 LA-6 Operationalize the local government’s civil and human rights policies in programs, services,
and operations
Equity &
Empowerment Civil & Human Rights EE-2 LA-7 Provide language translation or interpretation services to ensure that residents have access
to information about local government programs, services, and operations
Equity &
Empowerment Environmental Justice EE-3 LA-1
Create an Environmental Justice Collaborative Group (EJCG) composed of residents,
stakeholders, and environmental
professionals to assess risk and exposure, set targets, implement projects, and monitor
improvements
Equity &
Empowerment Environmental Justice EE-3 LA-2 Assess the risk and exposure to toxins related to the community’s prioritized environmental
justice sites, establishing at least the location and community impact of each selected site
Equity &
Empowerment Environmental Justice EE-3 LA-3 Adopt an environmental justice plan aimed at reducing polluted and toxic environments in
the jurisdiction
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-ResearchOutcomes-Research
Research
Actions incomplete and would require more research to determine feasibility
Equity &
Empowerment Environmental Justice EE-3 LA-4 Establish targets for each of the prioritized environmental justice sites related to air or water
improvements
Equity &
Empowerment Environmental Justice EE-3 LA-5 Incorporate environmental justice criteria and priorities into zoning, land use planning,
permitting policies, and development of new projects
Equity &
Empowerment Environmental Justice EE-3 LA-6
Create community benefit agreements (CBAs) for projects associated with prioritized
environmental justice sites and
proposed development projects with environmental justice concerns
Equity &
Empowerment Environmental Justice EE-3 LA-7 Create an interdepartmental working committee within the local government to guide and
support environmental justice activities
Equity &
Empowerment Environmental Justice EE-3 LA-8 Monitor and enforce environmental regulations for existing facilities that impact prioritized
environmental justice sites
Equity &
Empowerment Environmental Justice EE-3 LA-9 Implement projects to reduce acute exposure to contaminants and risks associated with
prioritized environmental justice sites
Equity &
Empowerment Equitable Services & Access EE-4 LA-1
Adopt an equity plan that evaluates current conditions in the community and establishes
targets to improve equitable access and proximity in at least the categories identified in the
outcome measure
Equity &
Empowerment Equitable Services & Access EE-4 LA-2 Adopt an equity or social justice policy that establishes a clear commitment to equity in local
government decision making, activities, and investments
Equity &
Empowerment Equitable Services & Access EE-4 LA-3 Promote events and programs that recognize and celebrate social and cultural diversity in the
community
Equity &
Empowerment Equitable Services & Access EE-4 LA-4 Publicize efforts to improve equitable access and proximity to community facilities, services,
and infrastructure
Equity &
Empowerment Equitable Services & Access EE-4 LA-5 Establish partnerships that engage key community groups and stakeholders in activities to
advance equitable access and proximity to facilities, services, and infrastructure
Equity &
Empowerment Equitable Services & Access EE-4 LA-7 Modify the deployment of local programs and services to reduce disparities within the
categories identified in the outcome measure
Equity &
Empowerment Equitable Services & Access EE-4 LA-8 Construct new facilities and infrastructure in locations that reduce existing disparities within
the categories identified in the outcome measure
Equity &
Empowerment Human Services EE-5 LA-5 Implement information technology solutions to improve client support services and
management
Equity &
Empowerment Human Services EE-5 LA-9 Upgrade existing facilities or build new facilities to better provide needed human services
Equity &
Empowerment
Poverty Prevention &
Alleviation EE-6 LA-2 Create a team of local government staff to work collaboratively and coordinate with non-
governmental organizations to provide high-quality services and reduce poverty
Health & Safety Active Living HS-1 LA-4 Establish school siting guidelines that give preferential considerations to locations that
maximize the number of students who can walk or bicycle safely to school
Health & Safety Community Health & Health
System HS-2 LA-3 Adopt a health in all policies statement or policy commitment for local decision-making
Health & Safety Community Health & Health
System HS-2 LA-5
Collaboratively engage the local public health department and relevant local government
departments or agencies to integrate health considerations into local plans and policies that
affect the built environment, physical activity, and access to fresh food
Health & Safety Community Health & Health
System HS-2 LA-7 Demonstrate that the local public health department, local government, or major hospital
has received HealthLead workplace accreditation
Health & Safety Community Health & Health
System HS-2 LA-9 Conduct health impact assessments (HIAs) on proposed infrastructure investments and
development projects to increase positive health outcomes and minimize adverse impacts
Health & Safety Food Access & Nutrition HS-4 LA-1 Conduct an assessment of the local food system, including existing policies and programs
that increase access to healthful food and nutrition education
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-ResearchOutcomes-Research
Research
Actions incomplete and would require more research to determine feasibility
Health & Safety Food Access & Nutrition HS-4 LA-6
Establish a local or regional food policy council that includes health professionals, community
organizations, schools,
farmers, and/or related businesses
Health & Safety Food Access & Nutrition HS-4 LA-7
Develop public outreach materials, classes, or workshops for residents to learn about food,
nutrition, and gardening OR
develop public outreach materials to promote food assistance programs
Health & Safety Food Access & Nutrition HS-4 LA-9 Purchase and sell healthful food at facilities owned, leased, and operated by the local
government
Health & Safety Food Access & Nutrition HS-4 LA-11
Provide incentives for healthful retail food outlets to locate in underserved areas or for
mobile vendors that only sell
fresh food
Health & Safety Indoor Air Quality HS-5 LA-2
Prohibit smoking in multi-family buildings community-wide OR residential buildings
controlled by the local housing authority OR affirm by local ordinance the right for landlords
to legally establish smoke-free rental units
Health & Safety Indoor Air Quality HS-5 LA-3 Require all new or substantially renovated local government and school buildings to
incorporate advanced ventilation standards
Health & Safety Indoor Air Quality HS-5 LA-5
Reduce or eliminate toxic pesticide use in locally owned or managed buildings through the
use of integrated pest
management (IPM) techniques
Health & Safety Indoor Air Quality HS-5 LA-6
Address residential IAQ problems related to mold, pests, and other hazards through
inspections and enforcement using authority from the state or local housing code or public
health code
Health & Safety Indoor Air Quality HS-5 LA-8 Provide free, subsidized, or at-cost supplies to test and monitor IAQ to prevent harm from
common pollutants
Health & Safety Natural & Human Hazards HS-6 LA-2
Develop a post-disaster plan that addresses long-range redevelopment issues such as land
use, economic development, housing, infrastructure, public services, and environmental
restoration
Health & Safety Natural & Human Hazards HS-6 LA-4
Integrate an all-hazard vulnerability assessment or other key local hazards information into
the community’s
comprehensive plan
Natural Systems Green Infrastructure NS-1 LA-2 Adopt local design criteria and associated codes that require proactive green infrastructure
practices for new developments
Natural Systems Green Infrastructure NS-1 LA-3
Adopt a policy requiring relevant departments be engaged during early reviews of proposed
developments to ensure that project sites are evaluated for green infrastructure potential
and environmental protections are put in place prior to construction
Natural Systems Invasive Species NS-2 LA-6
Use incentive programs to encourage local businesses and private owners to grow and sell
native or desirable plants and animals and not sell invasive species or other harmful plants
and animals
Natural Systems Invasive Species NS-2 LA-7 Enforce locally-adopted regulations to control the use and sale of listed priority invasive
species
Natural Systems Natural Resource Protection NS-3 LA-7 Implement local and market-based financing strategies to acquire land or development
easements, or fund restoration and maintenance activities
Natural Systems Working Lands NS-6 LA-1 Include considerations for protecting working lands and identifying areas where critical BMPs
are necessary in the community’s land conservation or natural resource plan
Natural Systems Working Lands NS-6 LA-2 Create critical partnerships with owners and operators of working lands to promote
sustainable harvesting practices
Natural Systems Working Lands NS-6 LA-3 Partner with certification programs to engage local owners and operators of working lands to
assess and report sustainable harvest practices
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-ResearchOutcomes-Research
Research
Actions incomplete and would require more research to determine feasibility
Natural Systems Working Lands NS-6 LA-4 Create an education campaign to teach owners and operators of working lands about the
benefits of critical BMPs and help them identify ways to implement those practices
Natural Systems Working Lands NS-6 LA-5 Develop outreach programs to inform residents and visitors about public access to working
lands and the importance of sustainable harvesting
Natural Systems Working Lands NS-6 LA-6 Create programs to facilitate the implementation of BMPs that protect ecosystem services in
combination with sustainable harvesting practices
Natural Systems Working Lands NS-6 LA-7 Maintain a program in collaboration with community-based conservation groups to
encourage owners of working lands to put all or part of their property into easements
Natural Systems Working Lands NS-6 LA-8 Implement financing strategies for working land conservation and transition to better
management practices
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Economy &
Jobs
Quality Jobs & Living
Wages EJ-4 O-2 0 10 Demonstrate that 90% of household incomes in the jurisdiction meet
or exceed the living wage standard
Climate &
Energy Greening the Energy Supply CE-3 LA-7 Use a feed-in tariff or other financial mechanisms to increase the mix of
renewable energy sources supplied to residents
Built
Environment Ambient Noise & Light BE-1 O-1 0 1.4
Option A: Demonstrate that daytime ambient noise levels do not
exceed 70 dBa in commercial areas --OR-- Option B: Show progress
towards locally identified key ambient noise targets
Climate &
Energy Greening the Energy Supply CE-3 LA-9 Work with state and regional partners to electrify truck stops to reduce
idling and unnecessary emissions
Built
Environment Ambient Noise & Light BE-1 O-2 0 1.4 Show progress towards locally identified key light targets for light
glare and/or light trespass
Climate &
Energy Greening the Energy Supply CE-3 LA-10 Install electrical vehicle charging stations
Built
Environment Ambient Noise & Light BE-1 O-3 0 0.7 Achieve a sky glow at or below 4 in the Bortle Dark-Sky Scale where
the Milky Way is still visible in residential areas
Climate &
Energy Greening the Energy Supply CE-3 LA-11 Build the necessary distribution infrastructure to support further
investment in renewable energy sources
Built
Environment Infill & Redevelopment BE-5 O-2 0 5
Demonstrate that at least 75% of new housing units in the past 3
years utilized existing water and sewer mains and did not require
extending or widening public roadways
Climate &
Energy Industrial Sector Resource Efficiency CE-4 LA-1 Adopt a plan designed to improve the resource efficiency of the
community’s industrial sector
Equity &
Empowerment Civil & Human Rights EE-2 O-1 0 7
Demonstrate that all civil and human rights complaints in the past 3
years have been investigated and violations redressed in a timely
manner
Climate &
Energy Industrial Sector Resource Efficiency CE-4 LA-2 Adopt policies that promote shifts to improved data collection
Equity &
Empowerment Human Services EE-5 O-1 0 14
Reduce the percentage of people in selected priority populations
who need assistance obtaining selected priority human services
[partial credit available]
Climate &
Energy Industrial Sector Resource Efficiency CE-4 LA-7 Administer programs that support the industrial sector’s transition to
less energy and water intensive practices
Equity &
Empowerment
Poverty Prevention &
Alleviation EE-6 O-1 0 12 Demonstrate progress towards a target of no residents living below
the poverty line by 2025 [Partial Credit Available]
Climate &
Energy Industrial Sector Resource Efficiency CE-4 LA-8 Create financial incentives or industry-focused challenges to encourage
companies to reduce the intensity of their resource consumption
Equity &
Empowerment
Poverty Prevention &
Alleviation EE-6 O-2 0 8 Demonstrate a decrease over time in the percentage of residents
living below the poverty line from at least 3 population subgroups
Climate &
Energy Industrial Sector Resource Efficiency CE-4 LA-9 Develop the necessary infrastructure for industries to transition to less
resource intensive practices
Health & Safety Food Access & Nutrition HS-4 O-3 0 2.6
Option A: Demonstrate an increase over the past 3 years in the
percentage of residents within a walkable 1/4th mile of a healthful
retail food outlet -- OR-- Option B: Demonstrate a decrease over the
past 3 years in the percentage of residents living in a urban or rural
food desert
Climate &
Energy Resource Efficient Buildings CE-5 LA-3 Adopt an energy and water use information disclosure ordinance
requiring energy and water users to disclose consumption levels
Health & Safety Indoor Air Quality HS-5 O-2 Decrease the number of tenant complaints regarding IAQ over time.Economy & Jobs Business Retention & Development EJ-1 LA-7
Support business development activities in special investment
zones, such as Business Improvement Districts, Enterprise Zones,
or other similar districts
Health & Safety Natural & Human Hazards HS-6 O-1
Part 1 -- Option A: Reduce over time the number of homes below
code standards that are located in designated high risk areas --OR--
Option B: Reduce over time the percentage of residents living in
designated high risk areas --AND-- Part 2: Reduce over time the
critical infrastructure below code standards that is located in
designated high risk areas
Economy & Jobs Business Retention & Development EJ-1 LA-9 Provide focused support, resources, and services to young
entrepreneurial companies through business incubators
Natural
Systems Water in the Environment NS-5 O-3 0 5
Option A: Demonstrate pollutant loadings below Total Maximum
Daily Load levels --OR-- Option B: Demonstrate a steady decrease in
pollutant levels towards a long-term goal of below TMDL levels
[partial credit applies]
Economy & Jobs Green Market Development EJ-2 LA-2
Adopt policies and regulations that increase overall market
demand for green buildings and associated materials, renewable
energy products and infrastructure, and recyclable products
Natural
Systems Water in the Environment NS-5 O-4 0 5
Option A: Demonstrate that all non-industrial bodies of water are
swimmable and fishable during 90% of the days in the past year --OR-
- Option B: Demonstrate a steady reduction in water closures of at
least 2% annually towards achieving 90% of days being swimmable
and fishable [Partial credit applies]
Economy & Jobs Green Market Development EJ-2 LA-5
Partner with other local governments, community groups, and
private entities in the region to articulate an overarching
sustainable economic development strategy and work
collaboratively to increase demand for green products and
services
Local Actions-NoOutcomes-No
No
Actions incomplete because they go beyond City activities
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-NoOutcomes-No
No
Actions incomplete because they go beyond City activities
Economy & Jobs Green Market Development EJ-2 LA-8 Create programs to help businesses transition to new green
practices
Economy & Jobs Local Economy EJ-3 LA-3 Promote purchasing preferences for locally-produced goods and
services in anchor institutions, including the local government
Economy & Jobs Local Economy EJ-3 LA-5 Provide incentives for businesses that use materials produced
within the region and sell their products within the region
Economy & Jobs Local Economy EJ-3 LA-6 Provide support services to targeted sectors to strengthen value
chain infrastructure and develop market channels
Economy & Jobs Quality Jobs & Living Wages EJ-4 LA-1
Enact a living wage policy that covers local government
employees, contractors, and entities receiving financial incentives
or assistance from the local government
Economy & Jobs Quality Jobs & Living Wages EJ-4 LA-3
Require that local government contractors provide at least 2 of
the following benefits to their employees: family leave, flexible
scheduling, job sharing, and easily accessible childcare
Economy & Jobs Quality Jobs & Living Wages EJ-4 LA-5 Support living wage and/or economic self-sufficiency campaigns
in the community
Economy & Jobs Quality Jobs & Living Wages EJ-4 LA-6 Support a Best Places to Work campaign to recognize local
businesses that support employees and their families
Economy & Jobs Quality Jobs & Living Wages EJ-4 LA-8
Provide training programs and assistance to local businesses to
encourage them to provide family-friendly workplace policies and
extended benefits
Economy & Jobs Quality Jobs & Living Wages EJ-4 LA-10 Enforce the living wage policy with a living wage officer or
equivalent function
Economy & Jobs Targeted Industry Development EJ-5 LA-3 Coordinate or support local and regional associations or formal
networks of related businesses in the targeted industry sectors
Economy & Jobs Targeted Industry Development EJ-5 LA-5 Educate residents about the economic impact of targeted
industry sectors in the community
Economy & Jobs Targeted Industry Development EJ-5 LA-7
Provide direct financial assistance, such as local bonds, grants, or
loans, to attract, retain, or expand businesses in targeted industry
sectors
Economy & Jobs Workforce Readiness EJ-6 LA-1
Adopt a workforce development plan or comprehensive strategy
to educate, train, and prepare residents for local employment
opportunities
Economy & Jobs Workforce Readiness EJ-6 LA-2 Align local economic development policy strategies with
workforce development programs
Economy & Jobs Workforce Readiness EJ-6 LA-3 Require local government contractors and entities receiving
financial incentives to prioritize hiring local residents
Economy & Jobs Workforce Readiness EJ-6 LA-4 Participate in and promote community workforce agreements or
project labor agreements
Economy & Jobs Workforce Readiness EJ-6 LA-5
Create a workforce development committee to align post-
secondary education, workforce development training programs,
and economic development strategies
Economy & Jobs Workforce Readiness EJ-6 LA-7 Produce an annual report that tracks workforce readiness
performance measures
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-NoOutcomes-No
No
Actions incomplete because they go beyond City activities
Economy & Jobs Workforce Readiness EJ-6 LA-10 Invest in community college facilities and capital improvements to
accommodate residents and members of the local workforce
Education, Arts,
& Community Arts & Culture EAC-1 LA-11 Protect and maintain local public artworks and cultural resources for
future generations
Education, Arts,
& Community Educational Opportunity & Attainment EAC-3 LA-4 Provide funding or other resources to support Head Start programs in
the community
Education, Arts,
& Community Educational Opportunity & Attainment EAC-3 LA-6
Program or support after-school activities, tutoring, extended day-
and/or summer programs for students who need
additional academic assistance
Education, Arts,
& Community Educational Opportunity & Attainment EAC-3 LA-7 Offer multiple pathways to graduation as a way to improve educational
outcomes for students
Education, Arts,
& Community Social & Cultural Diversity EAC-5 LA-6
Establish an office within the jurisdiction to ensure access, equity, and
inclusion in policies, programs, procedures, and
service delivery
Built
Environment Community Water Systems BE-2 LA-10 Upgrade and improve stormwater and wastewater treatment facilities
to meet current and foreseeable needs
Built
Environment Housing Affordability BE-4 LA-9 Work with private employers to provide live-near-your-work or
employer-assisted housing financial incentives
Built
Environment Infill & Redevelopment BE-5 LA-2 Adopt a policy commitment to limited or no expansion of physical
jurisdiction boundaries or extension of urban services
Built
Environment Transportation Choices BE-7 LA-9 Establish or support a community-wide public bike share program
Equity &
Empowerment Human Services EE-5 LA-2 Adopt a human services plan designed to guarantee that basic human
needs are met in the community
Equity &
Empowerment Human Services EE-5 LA-6 Monitor and evaluate the quality, comprehensiveness, and effectiveness
of priority human services for selected priority populations
Equity &
Empowerment Human Services EE-5 LA-7
Equip human services personnel with the skills and training needed to
effectively improve the well-being of the community’s priority
populations
Equity &
Empowerment Human Services EE-5 LA-8 Support the provision of high quality, priority human services in
coordination with non-governmental service providers
Equity &
Empowerment Poverty Prevention & Alleviation EE-6 LA-1 Adopt a community-wide plan to reduce poverty
Equity &
Empowerment Poverty Prevention & Alleviation EE-6 LA-5
Implement supportive workplaces programs for people living at or near
the poverty line that includes affordable child care, transportation
assistance, health care, medicine and toiletries, household goods, and
shelter
Health & Safety Emergency Prevention & Response HS-3 LA-8 Achieve accreditation by the Emergency Management Accreditation
Program (EMAP)
Health & Safety Food Access & Nutrition HS-4 LA-3 Adopt zoning and development regulations that limit or prohibit the sale
of unhealthful foods
Health & Safety Food Access & Nutrition HS-4 LA-4 Adopt menu-labeling requirements or regulations that discourage, tax,
or prohibit the sale of unhealthful foods or beverages
Health & Safety Indoor Air Quality HS-5 LA-9 Provide grants or loans to remediate indoor air pollution problems in
low-income homes or affordable rental units
Category Area Section Outcome Total
Points
Points
Available Description Objective Area Section Action Description
Local Actions-NoOutcomes-No
No
Actions incomplete because they go beyond City activities
Natural Systems Water in the Environment NS-5 LA-5 Provide incentives to residents and developers to protect and restore
critical watershed protection areas
Natural Systems Water in the Environment NS-5 LA-7
Develop and provide water conservation programs to residents,
businesses and agricultural water users in order to help ensure that the
community is not depleting its water supply
Natural Systems Water in the Environment NS-5 LA-8
Establish or partner with a group that routinely inventories and
monitors natural water bodies for biological, chemical, and hydrological
integrity (also BE-2 / LA-11)