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Marin County Operations Report: Measuring Progress Towards

A Sustainable Marin

Prepared by the Marin County Community Development Agency

December, 2001

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ECONOMYAcknowledgements Marin County Administrators Office Marin County Agricultural Commission Marin County Annual Affirmative Action Report, 2000 Marin County Code Marin County Community Development Agency Marin County Department of Public Works Marin County Fire Department Marin County Free Library Marin County Humane Society Marin County Jail Marin County Parks, Open Space and Cultural Commission Marin Municipal Water District Marin Recycling Center Resource Solutions RIDES for Bay Area Commuters, Inc. Pacific Gas and Electric United States Department of Energy

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Introduction_________________________________________________________________ 1

Summary Table______________________________________________________________ 2

Affimative Action ____________________________________________________________ 5

Animal Control ______________________________________________________________ 8

Cafeteria ____________________________________________________________________ 9

Cleansers __________________________________________________________________ 10

Community Planning ________________________________________________________ 11

County Fleet _______________________________________________________________ 12

Employee Commuting _______________________________________________________ 13

Energy Consumption ________________________________________________________ 15

Federal Grant Distribution ____________________________________________________17

Fire Prevention and Management______________________________________________ 18

Jail _______________________________________________________________________ 19

Library____________________________________________________________________ 20

Parks and Open Space _______________________________________________________ 21

Pest Management ___________________________________________________________ 23

Purchasing _________________________________________________________________ 24

Recycling __________________________________________________________________ 25

Water Consumption _________________________________________________________ 26

Where Do We Go From Here _________________________________________________ 28

____________________________________________________________

This document has been prepared by:

Marin County Community Development Agency Alex Hinds, Director

Michele Rodriguez, Principal Planner Dawn Weisz, Sustainability Planner Larisa Roznowski, Assistant Planner

Sally Brightcloud, Sustainability Intern Gwen Johnson, Planning Intern

With the assistance of these County departments:

Agriculture, Weights & Measures Human Resources Coroner Health and Human Services County Administrator Information, Services & Technology Fire Parks, Open Space and Cultural Services Library Public Works

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ECONOMYIntroduction

In the spring of 1999 the Marin County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a four-part program designed to aid in the creation of a sustainable Marin. The Marin County Operations Report represents one aspect of this program. This report focuses on successful policies and programs, and indicates where there is potential for further progress. The report is grounded in the County’s interim mission statement, goals and strategic plan as follows:

“The mission of the County of Marin is to provide excellent services that support healthy, safe and sustainable communities; preserve Marin’s unique environmental heritage; and encourage meaningful

participation in the of governance of the County by all.” The Board of Supervisors has drafted the County of Marin mission statement and a set of goals along with approving the strategic plan. One of the goals articulated by the Board is:

“…to promote a sustainable future for Marin County, benefiting present and future generations by encouraging balanced communities where residents have opportunities to enjoy a high quality of life with

adequate and diverse employment, housing, transportation services; cultural, recreational, safety and health services; and, a beautiful and clean environment.”

The ‘Strategic Plan: A Blueprint for Excellence in Public Service,’ is designed to be a catalyst that will increase the capacity of the County of Marin to deliver the services and outcomes needed and expected by Marin residents, businesses and visitors. One component of the Plan is to measure the impact of County services through performance management. This report will help measure our performance in the area of sustainability. Specifically, the report: • Reviews existing County operations. • Provides a baseline and potential indicators to help monitor future trends. • Identifies opportunities to further pursue sustainable practices. Sustainability can be defined as: ‘Using resources in ways that meet our needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.’ Sustainability is a three-legged stool, with the Environment, social Equity, and the Economy each representing one leg. These legs are also known as the three “E’s” of sustainability. Although there are three components to sustainability, it is crucial to recognize that they are mutually dependent. For instance, the County’s energy conservation efforts have saved energy (environmental leg), as well as money (economic leg). Housing costs in Marin have made living out of the County a more attractive proposition to some employees (equity leg, economy leg). In turn, employees must commute long distances, increasing fuel consumption and auto-dependence (environmental leg). Many of the issues raised in this report relate to more than one of the three E’s. As noted in the following report many departments including but not limited to: the Departments of Public Works; Parks, Open Space and Cultural Services; Fire; Human Resources; and Agricultural Weights and Measures should be commended for already incorporating a variety of sustainable practices in their daily operations.

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SSuummmmaarryy TTaabbllee

CCoouunnttyy OOppeerraattiioonnss EExxiissttiinngg CCoonnddiittiioonnss IIssssuueess ffoorr ffuurrtthheerr iinnvveessttiiggaattiioonn Affirmative Action The County has met the current Affirmative Action goals in the female, African

American and Native American categories. The County is 0.28% and 1.78% below its goals for Hispanics and Asian/Pacific Islanders, respectively. The County has met or exceeded the goals for the number of female and minority employees in professional, technician, and office/clerical job categories.

• Data that includes employees who are working in an extra-hire or part-time capacity.

Animal Control The Humane Society (which provides animal control services for Marin County) received the Waste Reduction Awards Program (WRAP) award in 2000 for reduction of non-hazardous waste. Computer paper & newspaper is reused on-site for bedding and all cans and bottles are recycled. In terms of reduced energy use, solar thermal panels have been installed for hot water and water consumption is minimal. Energy-efficient lights were installed and use of heating has been curtailed.

• Purchase of natural gas, hybrid, or other alternative fuel vehicles for the fleet when fiscally possible

Cafeteria Leftover food is minimal; when there are substantial leftovers, they are often delivered to a local food bank. Cafeteria recycling bins are well marked and well maintained. Some organic food is purchased and available to customers. A new vendor, providing cafeteria service starting January, 2002, will be implementing additional sustainability measures including the use of permanent dishware.

• Availability of recyclable dishware • Composting food scraps • Feasibility of buying locally grown food • Feasibility of increasing the amount of

organically grown foods purchased • Implementation of sustainable practices

Cleansers Currently none of the cleansers used in the Civic Center contribute to chlorofluorcarbon levels. Some of the products sampled do not contain petroleum components and some do not contribute Volatile Organic Compounds to the atmosphere. Some of the cleansers come in recyclable packaging and are concentrated to reduce packaging and transportation costs.

• Establishing environmental guidelines for custodial cleanser bid specifications

• Reducing the amount of toxic cleansers • Increasing biodegradable and environmentally

friendly cleansers Community Planning The Community Development Agency is currently implementing a community energy

program aiming to increase energy efficiency in homes, businesses, and new building projects and a Green Business Program, which provides certification and a logo to display for qualifying businesses. In addition, the Marin Countywide Plan update is being guided by the principles of sustainability.

• Increasing public participation in Green Business programs

• Removing unintended barriers to energy efficiency in County Development Code

• Further implementing recommendations in Van der Ryn report

• Increased outreach to cities

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County Fleet The Department of Public Works currently operates four low emissions vehicles and six hybrid vehicles will be purchased in 2002. The following vehicle parts and fluids are regularly recycled: freon, antifreeze, batteries, tires, tire casings, oil filters, engine oil, paper and cardboard. County Fleet vehicles also use re-refined oil, a recycled product.

• Purchasing re-refined antifreeze, and coolant • Establishing targets for adding hybrid natural

gas, or electric vehicles

Employee Commuting The new Enhanced Commute Alternative Program provides incentives to commuters such as at-cost fuel for registered carpools, increased bus transit subsidies, free bike tune-ups and awards for pledging to commute regularly by bike, as well commute at least once during Rideshare Week. To supplement these efforts, the Department of Public Works is currently developing plans to install showers and lockers for bike commuters somewhere at or near the Civic Center.

• Increasing facilities for alternative transportation

• Setting targets to reduce traffic congestion created by County employees

Energy Consumption Department of Public Works energy conservation efforts include restricting use of air conditioning, lighting retrofits, reengineering the cooling tower and turning out the majority of lights at 5:30pm every workday. Over the past two years, the Civic Center’s lighting demand has been cut in half. Energy tracking software is now installed, which allows better analysis of energy usage.

• Investment in renewable energy systems within County operations

• Participation in the ICLEI- Cities for Climate Protection program

• Increasing participation the BEST Program • Public Utilities Commission funding

Federal Grant Distribution The Federal Grants Division is working to increase demographic diversity by helping those with low or fixed incomes to live in and be a part of the community. Recent federal funds have been dispersed for the following projects: low-income housing at Hamilton Field, the Lamont House for the developmentally disabled, the Ritter House that assists the homeless in San Rafael and the Ecology House for those with multiple chemical sensitivities.

• Using environmentally preferable products in County supported housing

• Grant funding targeted to energy-efficient and green building measures in low-income housing

Fire Prevention & Maintenance

The Fire Department’s purchase of a chipper has resulted in a reduction in fuel use and a reduction in air emissions created through hauling and burning debris. They have also instituted an updated fire road policy aimed at reducing erosion. Energy-conserving behaviors have been adopted as well as lighting retrofits where needed. Of special concern to the Fire Department right now is the increasing difficulty of recruiting volunteers.

• Supporting housing for Fire Department employees and /or volunteers

Jail The design of the Marin County Jail allows for a high degree of efficiency and decreased resource use. Graywater is used in all toilets, skylights are used for natural daylighting and the building is surrounded by hills allowing it to use the earth’s thermal mass for heating and cooling. The jail recycles newspaper, bottles and cans and lights usage is minimized during the day and night.

• Use of non-toxic cleansers • Use of non-disposable items in Marin County

Jail cafeteria

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Library Energy saving behaviors including minimal fan use, turning computers off and closing drapes. Lighting retrofits were completed in the Novato, Fairfax and Corte Madera library in the summer of 2001. The libraries use email to distribute a newsletter and to allow customers to reserve books. In addition, the library has initiated a program of recycling computers and computer parts to cut down on “e-waste”.

• Increased use of electronic media

Parks & Open Space Marin County has been very successful in its land preservation efforts and its provision of open spaces. Of the 332,928 acres of land in Marin, roughly 50% is protected as federal, state, or municipal-owned parklands and watersheds or as agricultural and open space easements. In 2001, the Marin County Open Space District acquired 798 acres at the Lucas Film/Grady Ranch and 370 acres at French Ranch. A recent park upgrade included a play structure made from 30.000 plastic milk jugs.

• Balancing recreational demands with environmental health of open spaces

• Preparation of an acquisition plan

Pest Management The Integrated Pest Management policy has lead to a decrease in pesticide use within the County. The Department of Public Works is currently managing pests with least toxic alternatives and their Marin County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program does public outreach. The Department of Parks & Opens Space uses strategies such as monitoring, and utilizing organic methods to reduce pesticide use.

• Use of pesticides beyond County property • Non-toxic methods for pest management

Purchasing The County currently gives a price preference to paper products with 50% or greater recycled content. A 5% price preference is given for local vendors. No products are purchased from companies that engage in nuclear power production or testing.

• Enhancing green procurement guidelines • Increasing the recycled content of products

purchased by the County

Recycling Approximately 77% of the waste generated at the Civic Center is diverted from the landfill, with an annual recovery rate of 69%. On-site collection of recyclables including paper, bottles and cans is managed by the Department of Public Works along with a recycling educational campaign targeting County employees.

• Costs and benefits of on-site recycling • Focus on reduction and reuse to supplement

recycling efforts

Water Consumption Conservation efforts at the Civic Center include the installation of low-flow toilets, extensive education campaigns and utilization of recycled water. While water consumption has increased by 36% since 1999, use of recycled water is growing by an average of 8% per year and accounts for almost twice as much as potable water.

• Strategies for further conservation • Developing a countywide water management

plan • Establishing baselines and maintaining targets

for reduced water consumption

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ECONOMYAffirmative Action Existing Conditions In October 1976, the Marin County Board of Supervisors issued an Affirmative Action Policy Statement reaffirming the County’s commitment “to ensuring equality of opportunity to each employee and all applicants for employment.” The County Affirmative Action Policy relates to social and economic equity legs of sustainability in that it seeks ethnic diversity in the workforce and it promotes equal opportunity employment among genders as well as wage equity across employee classification categories. To ensure implementation of this policy an Affirmative Action Advisory Committee (AAAC) has been established to work with staff on an annual plan not only to eliminate discrimination, but to correct past deficiencies and to provide career development opportunities for County employees. Specifically, the role of the AAAC is to review each department’s affirmative action efforts, make recommendations to the Personnel Commission for policy improvements, take specific actions to enhance the Affirmative Action Program, and to meet with the Personnel Commission annually to evaluate progress toward goals. The 1998-2003 Affirmative Action Goals were established using demographic data for the County of residence of all applicants in fiscal year 1997-1998: Marin (40%), Sonoma (18%), San Francisco (8%), Contra Costa (7%), Alameda (7%), and Solano (5%). Overall, the County has met and continues to exceed its current countywide Affirmative Action (AA) goal for the utilization of females based on the goals as established in the 1998-2003 Affirmative Action Plan for all minority populations. The number of females employees was 8.28% percentage points above the current AA goal of 46.40%. The number of African-American employees exceeded the current AA goal by 0.49% and the number of Native American employees exceeded the AA goal by 0.34%. Although the rate of change for Hispanic and Asian/Pacific Islander employees has increased between 1999 and 2000, the rates for both of these groups fell below the current AA goals by 0.28% and 1.78% respectively. The number of Native American employees exceeded the current AA goal by 0.16% even though the number has slightly decreased by 0.14% since 1999. It is likely that the County will achieve the current goal of 23.57% minority employees by the year 2003.

Affirmative Action (AA) Goals and Percent Rates of Change

GroupCurrent

AA Goals% of 1999Workforce

% of 2000Workforce Difference

Female 46.40% 53.78% 54.68% 0.90%African American 5.00% 5.18% 5.49% 0.31%Hispanic 9.51% 8.22% 9.23% 1.01%Asian/Pacific Isl. 8.46% 6.19% 6.68% 0.49%Native American 0.60% 0.90% 0.76% -0.14%Total Minorities 23.57% 20.49% 22.16% 1.67%

The following table exhibits overall gender and racial/ethnic representation of the full time county workforce in the 2000-2001 fiscal year. The rate of change over fiscal year 1999-2000 is noted below the table.

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Overall Gender and Race/Ethnic Representation of the Full Time County Workforce Fiscal Year 2000-01

GroupTotal

Employees Precent GroupTotalMale

TotalFemale

TotalEmployees Percent

Male 851 46.22% Caucasian 688 745 1433 77.84%Female 990 53.78% African American 39 62 101 5.49%TOTAL 1841 Hispanic 63 107 170 9.23%

Asian/Pacific Isl. 55 68 123 6.68%Native American 6 8 14 0.76%TOTAL 851 990 1841

Total Minority 163 245 408Representatation 8.85% 13.31% 22.16%

Males make up 46.22% of the full time workforce. This is a 0.90% increase over FY 1999-2000. Females make up 53.78% of the full time workforce. This is a -0.90% decrease over FY 1999-2000. Minorities make up 22.16% of the full time workforce. This is a 1.26% increase over FY 1999-2000. Minority males make up 8.85% of the full time workforce. This is a 0.78% increase over FY 1999-2000. Minority females make up 13.3 % of the full time workforce. This is a -0.48% decrease over FY 1999-2000.

The table below demonstrates a steady increase in the minority population since 1996.

Percent of Full Time Minority Workforce

19.28%

19.96%20.35% 20.50%

22.16%

17.50%18.00%18.50%19.00%19.50%20.00%20.50%21.00%21.50%22.00%22.50%

1996 1997 1998 1999 2000

The County has met or exceeded the overall goals for female employees in professional, technician, and office/clerical EEO job categories. Similarly, the number of minorities met or exceeded the overall AA goals in professional, technician, para-professional, and office/clerical job groups. In 2000, there were a number of mandatory workshops presented to full-time regular hire employees to educate employees that AA/ Equal Opportunity Employment (EOE) is a basic County policy. The following courses were conducted in association with this effort: Managing Diversity in the Workplace (18 attended), Preventing Sexual Harassment (102 attended), Preventing Sexual Harassment for Managers

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(36 attended), and Valuing Diversity in the Workplace (123 attended) for an overall total of 279 employees in attendance at affirmative action-related workshops. Issues for Further Investigation: • Data that includes employees who are working in an extra-hire or part-time capacity. Source: 2000 Annual Affirmative Action Report.

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ECONOMYAnimal Control Existing Conditions The Humane Society, which is contracted to provide Animal Control Services to the County had taken many steps to reduce waste and energy use. In 2000 they received the Waste Reduction Awards Program (WRAP) award for their success in reducing non-hazardous waste. The Humane Society reuses computer paper and newspaper by shredding it on site and using it for bedding. All cans and bottles are recycled. In addition to their recycling efforts, energy use has been reduced. Solar panels are used for hot water heating. Hot water is used only two times per day to clean cages and other areas. Lighting fixtures and bulbs have been replaced with more energy efficient models. During the daytime lights are rarely used at all because day lighting is available. Heating has been discontinued in the dog-training pavilion where trainers and owners are now advised to wear coats. This table summarizes the efforts the Humane Society has undertaken to reduce waste and consumption of energy:

Reduce Energy Use

Reduce Waste

Reduce Water Use

Reuse Materials

Recycle Materials

Solar panels used to heat water

Reuse paper Hot water used two times per day only

Shredded paper for animal bedding

Cans and bottles

Energy efficient lights

Recycle cans and bottles

Lights rarely used during daylight hours

Heating discontinued in training pavilion

Potential Indicators: • Energy use by Humane Society buildings over time • Fuel use by Humane Society vehicles Issues for Further Investigation: • Purchase of natural gas, hybrid, or other alternative fuel vehicles for the fleet when fiscally possible. Source: Marin County Humane Society.

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Cafeteria

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Existing Conditions The Marin County Civic Center Cafeteria plays an important role by providing healthy and nourishing food to many County employees and visitors without their having to travel outside of the Civic Center. The cafeteria at the Marin County Civic Center offers a wide variety of California-grown healthy foods. Some steps have been taken at the Cafeteria to reduce waste while increasing the quality of the foods provided. In addition, a new vendor will be providing cafeteria service at the Civic Center starting in January, 2002. This vendor was selected in part because of their interest in implementing additional sustainability measures. There are three types of waste in the cafeteria – fruit and vegetable scraps, dishware, and leftover food. Cafeteria chefs have used their experience to determine the amount of food necessary to satisfy Civic Center demand, and have minimized leftover food and food waste. When there are substantial leftovers, they are often delivered to a local food bank. Currently, paper and plastic dishware and utensils are being used rather than permanent dishware. However, the new vendor will be using permanent dishware to reduce waste and conserve resources. The cafeteria at the Civic Center maintains well marked and managed recycling facilities. Bins for glass, bottles and cans are located alongside trashcans. These recycled goods are transported to the Marin Resource Recovery Center to be separated and recycled (see Recycling for more information). The cafeteria also uses integrated pest management practices as an alternative to chemical pest management. They use sealed containers and other methods that deter pests, and as a result, have significantly reduced the need for chemicals while maintaining a clean, pest-free work environment. Because the production and transportation of food products can impact our air, soil, and water quality and because importing food can support distant economies rather than local ones while increasing transportation-related fuel consumption some interest has been expressed recently in increasing the amount of locally grown, organic food. Although there is no policy regarding the purchase of organic foods, the cafeteria has made an effort to purchase and make them available on many occasions. Beyond the Civic Center cafeteria, the County is involved in food production in the community at large. The County Agricultural Commissioner has worked with community groups to plan and launch a new program called, “Marin Organic.” Farmers in Marin certified as “Marin Organic” can label their products so that consumers can identify food products that are both organic and locally produced. Issues for Further Investigation: • Availability of recyclable dishware • Composting food scraps • Feasibility of buying locally grown food • Feasibility of increasing the amount of organically grown foods purchased • Implementation of sustainable practices by the new vendor Sources: Cafeteria Manager, Department of Public Works, County Agricultural Commissioner.

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Cleansers

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Existing Conditions The County of Marin recognizes the impact industrial chemicals have on the environment. As a result, the County has begun to move toward less-toxic purchasing practices by evaluating current cleansers and initiating changes. The following matrix includes some of the most common products used by the custodial staff: Product Petroleum

Components Chlorine Bleach

ReleaseVOCs*

Recyclable Packaging

Non-Toxic

Release CFCs*

Bio-degradable

Concentrate

Oran-Gel Degreaser

Yes No ? No No No No No

Protect-It Mark Resistor

Yes No ? No No No No No

Spitfire Carpet Spotter

Yes No ? Yes No ? No No

Keep It Open Drain maintainer

No No No Yes No No No Yes

Stainless Steel Cleaner

Yes No Yes No No No No No

Illustrious 5 Glass Cleaner

No No No Yes No No No Yes

Liquid Sunshine Degreaser

No No No Yes No No No Yes

*VOC: Volatile Organic Compounds *CFC: Chloroflourocarbons The cleansers being selected for use by the County of Marin are addressing a variety of environmental and social concerns. None of these cleansers release chloroflourocarbons, an element that contributes to air pollution and global warming. Petroleum-based components, which are made from non-renewable resources, are flammable and are toxic upon inhalation, are not included in several of the cleansers being used. In addition, the stainless steel cleaner being used does not release volatile organic compounds, and this decreases the County’s release of compounds that form smog-causing, ground-level ozone. Several of the products sampled come in recycled packaging, and this helps to “close the loop” by creating a market for recycled goods. Finally, several of the cleansers being used are purchased in concentrate form. Concentrated products reduce packaging use, and lower transportation costs. Potential Indicators: • Number of biodegradable non toxic, chlorine free products • Number of cleansers containing carcinogens, mutagens and teratogens • Alkyl phenyl ethoxylates (APE’s), Ozone Depleting Compounds Issues for Further Investigation: • Establishing environmental guidelines for custodial cleanser bid specifications • Reducing the amount of toxic cleansers • Increasing the amount of biodegradable and environmentally friendly cleansers Source: Department of Public Works.

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ECONOMYCommunity Planning Existing Conditions The Community Development Agency (CDA) is currently updating the Countywide Plan using sustainability principles as a foundation. The Countywide Plan will be reorganized into three sections: Built Environment, Natural Systems, and Economy, Equity and Culture. This organization reflects the inter-relationship of the ‘three E’s’ of sustainability: equity, economy and environment. The update will also include additional sections: guiding principles of sustainability, baylands protection corridor, watershed planning, food policy issues, countywide housing element tool kit, social equity and culture. The outcomes of the four year update effort will include: sustainability guidelines, a housing workbook, an updated Countywide Plan and Development Code, updated workbooks for each element, a “coffee table” summary, as well an ongoing monitoring and measurement of indicators. To supplement the efforts of the Countywide Plan update and to take additional steps to carry out the County’s mission statement, the CDA has launched several new programs related to community planning. A green business program, developed in partnership with the City of Novato, will certify businesses taking efforts to reduce waste and conserve resources. Businesses who chose to participate in the program will receive a certificate and logo to display. In addition, some new regulatory initiatives have been initiated to reduce construction and demolition waste, reduce the energy consumption of big and tall homes, and remove barriers to energy efficiency in the Marin County Development Code. It is intended that each of the CDA programs will facilitate movement toward sustainability in the greater Marin community. Potential Indicators: • Implementation of Countywide Plan policies and programs by monitoring indicators • Number of businesses certified by the Green Business Program Issues for Further Investigation: • Increasing public participation in Green Business programs • Removing unintended barriers to energy efficiency in County Development Code • Further implementing the recommendations in the Van der Ryn report • Increased outreach to cities Sources: Marin County Administrators Office, Marin County Community Development Agency.

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Existing Conditions The Department of Public Works operates and maintains a fleet that includes dump and pick-up trucks, sheriff patrol cars, vans, and sedans used for site visits, meetings, or conferences that require work-related travel. Purchase and maintenance of vehicles for the Marin County fleet is conducted with efforts to reduce fuel consumption and recycle waste. The Department of Public Works has taken an important step through its selection of new vehicles. The County currently operates four low emissions vehicles and will purchase six gas-electric hybrids in 2002. All vehicles in the fleet undergo routine maintenance, which is the key to maximizing fuel efficiency. Preventative maintenance helps detect problems before they occur, thus lowering costs, and allowing the motor pool to repair existing parts rather than purchase new ones. A number of common vehicle parts and fluids are recycled by the County’s Motor Pool. Recycling these items is not only economically beneficial, but it also reduces the amount of waste produced and keeps toxic chemicals from entering the landfills. The following nine products are regularly recycled by the County fleet: • Freon: old freon is recycled and turned back into a usable product • Antifreeze: antifreeze may be recycled and reprocessed • Batteries: used batteries are returned when new ones are purchased. • Tires: worn tires are recycled to be used in power generation, or as a component of street resurfacing

material • Oil Filters: used oil filters are crushed and recycled • Engine Oil: engine oil and all other petroleum-based lubricants are recycled • Paper: paper is sorted and recycled • Cardboard: cardboard packaging is sorted and recycled • Tire casings: the tire casings from large vehicles are sold to a retreaded tire manufacturer In addition to recycling many products the Department of Public Works is ‘closing the loop’ by using recycled products when possible. For example, re-refined oil is used for all vehicles in the County fleet. Potential Indicators: • Number of products recycled • Number of products purchased that contain recycled content • Gas mileage of cars purchased • Type of fuel used by County vehicles Issues for Further investigation: • Purchasing re-refined antifreeze, and coolant • Establishing targets for adding hybrid, natural gas, or electric vehicles Source: Marin County Department of Public Works.

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Employee Commuting

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Existing Conditions In the County’s efforts to become more sustainable, a good deal of attention has focused on alleviating traffic congestion and reducing the use of fossil fuels. The progress being made in this area addresses local concerns about traffic, air pollution and non-point source pollution as well as global concerns about fuel availability and global warming. An emerging trend in the Bay Area, and more specifically in Marin County, is increased traffic congestion along the highway corridors. The automobile continues to be the primary mode of transportation, demonstrated by rising car ownership rates. This, combined with increasing housing costs, results in a workforce that spends a great number of hours in commute time, traveling to, or within, the County and home again. Subsequent issues revolve around lost employee productivity, displaced community investment, as well as increased stress for employees and employers alike. The congestion, pollution, land requirements, and maintenance costs associated with the automobile have led residents, businesses, elected officials, and environmental organizations to call for change. In an effort to promote commute choices that will result in decreased congestion, as well as reductions in air pollution, the County Board of Supervisors established an ‘Enhanced Commute Alternatives Program’ to provide incentives for County employees to utilize commute alternatives. The Program is designed and implemented by the Transportation Services Division of the Department of Public Works. It includes at-cost fuel (resulting in a savings of $0.25 to $0.40 per gallon) through County pumps for registered carpools, increased bus transit subsidies, a guaranteed ride home in the event of an emergency for commuters, bicycle amenities and a link to RIDES for Bay Area Commuters in vanpool matching and promotional efforts. Incentives include free bike tune-ups for employees who pledge to regularly ride a bike to work, as well as awards for pledging to utilize commute alternatives at least once during the California Rideshare Week in October. To supplement these efforts, the Department of Public Works is currently developing plans to install showers and lockers for bike commuters at or near the Civic Center. In an effort to expand transit services, a dialogue was initiated between the County, Golden Gate Transit, local businesses and the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC). As a result of the County survey and discussions with other major employers in the north San Rafael area, Golden Gate Transit submitted a proposal to MTC requesting implementation of a Regional Express Bus Program. If MTC approves this proposal, the County and Golden Gate Transit will work cooperatively together to design a service, work out successful participation details, and develop a funding plan for operating the service for consideration by the County Board of Supervisors. The following table compares travel habits of Marin County employees to travel habits of all Marin residents. The bus and carpool rates for County employees is also slightly below typical Marin residents by 5% and 8% respectively. County employees biking to work rate 0.5% greater than Marin residents do on average. Efforts associated with the Enhanced Commute Alternatives Program continue to strive to relieve traffic congestion, improve air quality, and provide incentives to County employees for commute options other than the single-occupant vehicle.

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Comparison of Travel Modes Between Marin County Employees and Marin Residents

Travel Mode Percent of County Employees1

Percent of Marin Residents2

Percent Difference Between County and

Marin Residents Drive alone unknown 70 unknown Bus 4 9 -5 Carpool 7 15 -8 Walk unknown 2 unknown Bike 1.5 1 0.5 Telecommute unknown 1 unknown Ferry unknown 2 unknown Other unknown 2 unknown 1 Data taken from the Enhanced Commute Alternatives Program, Summary Report (October, 2001). Note: this data only reflects the County employees who participate in the County of Marin Enhanced Commute Alternatives Program, and does not reflect alternative transportation modes that may be used without reporting to the County. 2 Data taken from Commute Profile 2001 (September, 2001), a report published by RIDES for Bay Area Commuters, Inc. where a sample size of 400 Marin residents were surveyed.

Traffic congestion in Marin County as a whole, as well as the surrounding Bay Area impacts County employees. Due to a lack of affordable housing in Marin, greater numbers of Marin’s workforce is commuting in from surrounding counties. In 2001, 79% of all daily trips generated in Marin were destined for locations in Marin. During the morning peak hour commute 52% of the trips from the north are destined for Marin, and 76% from the East Bay are destined for Marin. Only 8% of the total morning peak hour trips “pass through” Marin to San Francisco and neighboring communities. These circumstances contribute significantly to congestion both on Highway 101 and local streets leading to the highway, and this, in turn, lengthens commute times for employees. The influx of traffic from surrounding communities is compounded by a growing number of work-related trips originating in Marin. Approximately, 65% of all daily work related trips destined for Marin are generated in Marin. Potential Indicators: • Travel mode of County employees commuting to work • Number of alternative transportation incentives • Greenhouse emissions calculation • Fuel consumption Issues for Further Investigation: • Increasing facilities for alternative transportation • Setting targets to reduce traffic congestion created by County employees Sources: Marin County Department of Public Works, RIDES for Bay Area Commuters, Inc.

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ECONOMYEnergy Consumption Existing Conditions The recent energy crisis in California has resulted in an increased focus on energy conservation and promotion of renewable energy sources in the County. Through the continued efforts of the Department of Public Works (DPW), along with employee willingness to conserve, energy consumption has decreased at the Civic Center between 11% to 19% of last year’s summer levels. Over the past three years, efforts to lower the Civic Center energy use have resulted in a decrease in total demand from 4 megawatts to 2 megawatts. This was accomplished in part through lighting retrofits, and in part through retrofitting the heating & ventilation air control (HVAC) system. The efficiency of the HVAC system was increased by replacing a constant air volume with a variable air volume system and retrofitting constant speed motors with variable speed drives. In the last year, DPW has implemented multiple energy conservation efforts including restricting air conditioning use to as needed basis, reengineering the cooling tower and turning out the majority of lights at 5:30pm every workday. New efficient chillers are being installed at the Civic Center to significantly increase energy savings. These conservation efforts have been successful in decreasing the Civic Center’s energy consumption, in both electricity and natural gas use. In the charts below, a definite decrease in energy use can be seen between the years 2000 and 2001.

C i v i c C e n t e r E l e c t r i c i t y U s a g e ( s u m m e r m o n t h s )

4 0 0 , 0 0 0

4 5 0 , 0 0 0

5 0 0 , 0 0 0

5 5 0 , 0 0 0

6 0 0 , 0 0 0

6 5 0 , 0 0 0

7 0 0 , 0 0 0

M a r A p r M a y J u n J u l A u g S e p O c tD a t e

kWh/month

s u m m e r 2 0 0 0 s u m m e r 2 0 0 1

M a r i n C i v i c C e n t e r N a t u r a l G a s U s a g e

( s u m m e r m o n t h s )

0

2 , 0 0 0

4 , 0 0 0

6 , 0 0 0

8 , 0 0 0

1 0 , 0 0 0

1 2 , 0 0 0

1 4 , 0 0 0

1 6 , 0 0 0

1 8 , 0 0 0

2 0 , 0 0 0

m a r a p r m a y j u n j u l a u g s e p t o c tD a t e

Therms/month

s u m m e r 1 0 / 2 0 0 0 s u m m e r 1 0 / 2 0 0 1

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New energy accounting software has just been put in place by DPW to track energy usage in county buildings over time. This software will provide useful data for future energy consumption analysis. It will also allow DPW to accurately set and measure targets for energy consumption and provide clear information as to which buildings should be targeted for further energy retrofits. In addition to the County’s efforts to reduce energy consumption, it is now evaluating the viability of using renewable energy systems. This summer, DPW conducted a preliminary study to determine the potential of using photovoltaic systems on eight of Marin’s municipal buildings. The study found that four of the buildings studied are good candidates for utilizing solar energy. At this time, the General Services Building on Peter Behr Drive is being analyzed more rigorously by photovoltaic professionals to determine its potential as the County’s first photovoltaic demonstration project. Beyond County Facilities In response to unstable energy prices the Board of Supervisors conducted an energy efficient light bulb give-away at the Marin County Fair in July, 2001. Five hundred light bulbs were given away to members of the public at a booth that also featured a green building display and information about reducing energy use in homes and businesses. The Community Development Agency (CDA) is implementing several energy efficiency programs targeting residential and commercial buildings in the unincorporated areas of Marin County. Incentives are being offered to builders who chose to participate in the ‘Building Energy-Efficient Structures Today’ (BEST) program. Free technical assistance is being provided to builders who would like to make their building more energy efficient. Rebates are offered to Marin County employees and members of the public to purchase energy efficient appliances or retrofit buildings for greater energy efficiency. Education about green building is being offered through four training sessions and the creation of a roving green building display with product samples. Currently, renewable energy generation comprises 22.2% of California’s energy mix. The intent of the CDA’s energy program is to both encourage conservation of energy and stimulate the growth of renewable energy sources in the County. Potential Indicators: • Annual energy consumption for County-owned buildings • Annual energy consumption countywide • Energy consumption compared to number of employees and energy needs • County carbon dioxide or greenhouse emissions analysis • Number of builders participating in energy efficiency and green building programs Issues for Further Investigation: • Investment in renewable energy systems within County operations • Participation in the ICLEI- Cities for Climate Protection program • Increasing public participation in the BEST program • Public Utilities Commission funding Sources: Marin County Department of Public Works, Marin County Community Development Agency, Pacific Gas & Electric, United States Department of Energy, Resource Solutions.

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ECONOMYFederal Grant Distribution Existing Conditions Marin County’s high cost of housing and real estate has made it more difficult for people of low or fixed incomes to live in the community. The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Division of the Community Development Agency is working to address this issue by administering federal funds that are used primarily for low-income housing. This program plays an important role by helping to increase diversity and social equity in the County. The CDBG Division is responsible for administering federal funds for low-income housing projects that benefit people of all ages and those with physical or mental disabilities. The majority of the funding comes from two programs: the Community Development Block Grant Program, and the HOME Program. The County also administers the local share of Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS Program (HOPWA) grants. The Agency has recently been involved with funding the planning and administrative costs associated with the following projects, among others: • Low-income housing at Hamilton Field • Lamont House for the developmentally disabled • Ritter House that assists the homeless in San Rafael • Ecology House for those with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities The three main funding sources have been relatively consistent over the past five years. Year CDBG HOME HOPWA TOTAL 01-02 1,825,000 1,135,000 694,800 $3,654,800 00-01 1,773,000 1,022,000 634,255 $3,429,255 99-00 1,779,000 1,020,000 638,250 $3,437,250 98-99 1,769,000 947,000 656,565 $3,372,565 97-98 1,846,000 882,000 715,312 $3,443,312 5-YearAverage 1,798,400 1,001,200 667,836 $3,467,436 Note: A substantial decrease in HOPWA funding is expected over the next three years. Potential Indicators: • Total funds distributed annually • Sources of funding Issues for Further Investigation • Using environmentally preferable products in County supported housing • Grant funding targeted to energy-efficient, and green building measures in low-income housing Source: Marin County Community Development Agency.

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Fire Prevention and Management OOMY

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Existing Conditions The Marin County Fire Department helps maintain a safe and healthy environment and protects Marin’s society and economy. The Fire Department’s goal is to prevent catastrophic fires from hitting Marin by preventing fires and minimizing their damage when they occur. This not only prevents damage to wildlife, property and other resources, but it reduces the short and long-term impact fires have on the environment including air pollution and destruction of ecosystems. Actions taken recently by the Fire Department have benefited air and water quality, while reducing waste and fuel consumption. A chipper has been purchased which allows the Fire Department to clear debris on site rather than hauling it away to be burned. This has resulted both in a reduction in fuel used to haul debris and a reduction in air emissions including carbon monoxide, suspended particles, organic gases, and nitrous oxides created by the burning of wood. The Fire Department has also instituted an updated fire road policy aimed at reducing erosion which can often occur on fire roads. Due to recent energy and fuel cost increases the Fire Department has joined other County departments in efforts to reduce energy and fuel use. They are reducing energy use by turning off lights and equipment whenever possible. They have replaced light bulbs with energy efficient florescents to reduce energy use and energy expenses. In addition, the Fire Department has reduced the number of vehicle trips by combining trips when possible. The Fire Department noted that in recent years there has been difficulty recruiting volunteers to work with the Fire Department. This is especially true for the Inverness, Bolinas and Stinson Fire Departments. It is believed that this is due to changing demographics related to housing cost and availability. The number of families who live and work in the community is decreasing, as is the number of young individuals who would meet the Fire Department age requirements. Homes in these areas are increasingly being used for tourists and vacation homes, decreasing the number of homes affordable to young families, and increasing the number of workers that drive “over the hill” to work in these communities. Potential Indicators: • Acres burned (unmanaged) annually • Erosion level • Vegetation mapping • Number of unfilled positions in Volunteer Fire Departments across the county Issues for Further Investigation: • Supporting housing for Fire Department employees and /or volunteers Source: Marin County Fire Department.

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ECONOMYJail Existing Conditions The Marin County Jail was built in 1992 with state of the art features that increase efficiency and decrease resource use. The building is set into a hill and surrounded on all sides by earth. This provides tremendous thermal mass that helps maintain comfortable temperatures year-round with very little heating or cooling needs. Light is brought into the building using skylights, giving the jail a bright airy feeling, and reducing the need for lighting in the daytime. The building uses gray water in all toilets to decrease water consumption. To further reduce its resource use the jail recycles newspaper, bottles and cans. The use of lights is minimized both day and night to cut down on energy costs. Potential Indicators: • Annual energy use in Marin County Jail Issues for Further Investigation: • Use of non-toxic cleansers • Use of non-disposable items in Marin County Jail cafeteria Source: Marin County Jail.

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ECONOMYJail Existing Conditions The Marin County Jail was built in 1992 with state of the art features that increase efficiency and decrease resource use. The building is set into a hill and surrounded on all sides by earth. This provides tremendous thermal mass that helps maintain comfortable temperatures year-round with very little heating or cooling needs. Light is brought into the building using skylights, giving the jail a bright airy feeling, and reducing the need for lighting in the daytime. The building uses gray water in all toilets to decrease water consumption. To further reduce its resource use the jail recycles newspaper, bottles and cans. The use of lights is minimized both day and night to cut down on energy costs. Potential Indicators: • Annual energy use in Marin County Jail Issues for Further Investigation: • Use of non-toxic cleansers • Use of non-disposable items in Marin County Jail cafeteria Source: Marin County Jail.

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ECONOMYLibrary Existing Conditions The Marin County Free Library has an impact on the environment, society and economy in Marin. Because the basic function of a library is reuse, the library benefits the environment by reducing the amount of paper, and other materials that would be used for new books and media. The Library benefits the society and economy by providing books and other media free to any County resident or business owner. Recently, the library has initiated new practices to lower their use of energy. Computers are turned off when possible, fans are used minimally, and drapes are pulled to minimize heat gain during summer months. Paper and newspaper is recycled. Paper that has been used on only one side is cut up and used as scrap paper for customers. Efforts have been made to make library information available electronically when possible, and this may decrease the number of trips customers make to the building, thus reducing fuel consumption and traffic congestion. The library has also just established a reference section on Building Energy Efficient and Green Buildings. This will help home and business owners, designers, and contractors create more energy efficient buildings in the County to benefit our environment and economy. A library newsletter is distributed to 1400 recipients via email. Customers are able to reserve books via email. In addition, the library has initiated a program of recycling computers and computer parts to cut down on “e-waste”. The Marin County Library operates off-site libraries in Corte Madera, Novato and Fairfax. At these sites light fixtures are being replaced for increased energy efficiency. Also, film is being placed on windows to reduce solar gain. Potential Indicators: • Number of Library customers • Number of “e-customers” at Library Issues for Further Investigation: • Increased use of electronic media Source: Marin County Free Library

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ECONOMYParks and Open Space Existing Conditions Open spaces play many roles in Marin County. They serve as classrooms, recreation and vacation spots, wildlife corridors, and water and air filters. The County of Marin has a history of open space protection and is well known today for its preservation efforts and wealth of open spaces that include local, state and federal lands. Of the total land area in Marin County, approximately 50 percent is under public management as parks, open space, conservation easements, and watershed lands. The following chart quantifies land use types within Marin County.

Developed11%

Open Space/Watershed

15%

Potentially Developable

5%

Agriculture36%

Park Lands33%

Land Area in Agriculture, Parks, and Protected Open Space

ACREAGE PERCENTAGE ACRES Agriculture 36 119,808 Park Lands 33 109,824 Open Space/Watersheds 15 49,920 Developed 11 36,654 Potentially Developable 5 16,594 Total Acres 100 332,800

Source: Marin County Assessor Established in 1972, the Marin County Open Space District (MCOSD) has been acquiring land in the county for over 29 years. By 1997, the Agency had been involved in the purchase of more than 13,200 acres (an average of 528 per year) of open space. Purchases have continued steadily in the last several years. In 1998 the MCOSD was one of a coalition of local, state and non-profit organizations who purchased the 79-acre Millerton Point property in an effort to protect views and expand Millerton Point State Park. More than 74 acres of open space were purchased by or with the help of the MCOSD in 1999. In 2001 the MCOSD acquired 798 acres of open space at the Lucas Film/Grady Ranch, and 370 acres at the French Ranch. Total acreage preserved under the MCOCD is 14,428 acres. The County also maintains numerous parks that serve the community. An upgrade to a park at Stafford Lake in Novato included the installation of a play structure that was made using 30,000 recycled plastic milk jugs. The upgrade of this park will also include making it wheelchair accessible. A grant from the California Integrated Waste Management Board will pay for a portion of the upgrade.

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Potential Indicators: • Numbers of acres preserved • Successful purchasing of high-priority parcels • Plant and wildlife density and diversity • Wildlife corridor connectivity throughout Marin Issues for Further Investigation: • Balancing recreational demands with environmental health of open spaces • Preparation of an acquisition plan Sources: The Marin County Open Space District at 25 (1997), Marin County Department of Parks, Open Space and Cultural Services, Marin County Assessor.

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Pest Management

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Existing Conditions Marin County has a history of minimizing the use of hazardous pesticides and herbicides. In 1983 the Department of Parks & Open Space and the Cultural Commission adopted an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) policy, to broaden awareness about potential dangers intrinsic in toxic pesticide use and to minimize the impact of pesticides on County property. In 1997, the County adopted an Integrated Pest Management Ordinance that seeks to reduce overall pesticide use 75% by 2004. This Ordinance, 23.19 of the County Code, restricts any County agency from using a Category I or II, pesticide on County-owned and/or managed property. These pesticides have been found to be the most dangerous to humans, potentially contributing to reproductive and developmental abnormalities, as well as being carcinogenic. Currently, the County is only using pesticides that fall into Category III. Category III pesticides are considered less toxic. The County Agricultural Commissioner serves as the designated IPM coordinator. He works with the IPM Commission to submit annual reports documenting the amount and types of pesticides used, and the alternatives proposed for the future years. The Department of Parks & Open Space and Department of Public Works (DPW) are currently managing pests with least toxic alternatives. To meet the 75% reduction in pesticide use by 2004, the County must reduce usage to only 15 gallons annually. The Department of Parks & Opens Space has implemented strategies such as monitoring the landscaping pest to catch it in the larval state, as well as utilizing organic and cultural methods, such as mulching, hoeing, and growing cover crops. Pesticides are used only as a last resort. The Building Maintenance Division of the Department of Public Works encourages any business providing contract services to the County to use IPM strategies before using chemicals. This has proven particularly effective in the cafeteria. In addition to reducing pesticide use on County-owned property, the Marin County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program, a division of DPW, has done extensive public outreach to reduce pesticide use in the County as a whole. This program includes education about pesticide alternatives and information about how pesticides can impact the health of our water, fish, and environment as a whole. Potential Indicators: • Pounds of pesticide used • Toxicity level of pesticides used • Damage incurred by pests Issues for Further Investigation: • Use of pesticides beyond County property • Non-toxic methods for pest management Sources: Marin County IPM Coordinator; Marin County Code 23.19; Marin County Department of Public Works.

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ECONOMYPurchasing Existing Conditions The purchasing decisions made by the County can impact energy and resource use as well as waste generation in Marin County and beyond. Products with recycled or reused parts require fewer resources to create than those made with raw materials. In addition, products produced locally require less fuel to transport to the County while also supporting the local economy. Durable products do not need to be replaced often, and thus can reduce resource use, overall cost and generation of waste. In recent years many products that contain recycled content, are recyclable, reusable, durable and manufactured locally have become available. In some cases, as with pesticides, products can be purchased that have a lower level of toxicity associated with their production and use. Ideally, the purchase of these types of products can save money, conserve resources, reduce pollution and expand the markets for green products. The County of Marin currently gives a price preference to recycled products with 10% or greater recycled content. Recycled products include paper as well as all other materials, goods and supplies. A 5% price preference is given for local vendors. No products are purchased from companies that engage in nuclear power production or testing. The Department of Public Works has a practice of reusing surplus items that move from one department to another. This cuts down significantly on cost, waste and overall resource use. Recycled or reusable products:

Envelopes Diskettes Steno-notes Binders Legal pads Carpet

Business cards Motor Oil Paper Towels Paint

Furniture Floor tiles Plastic Lumber Cleaning products

Potential Indicators: • Embodied energy of similar products • Number of products purchased with recycled content • Number of products produced locally Issues for Further Investigation: • Enhancing green procurement guidelines • Increasing the recycled content of products purchased by the County Source: Marin County Department of Public Works.

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Recycling

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Existing Conditions Central to the principles of sustainability are the concepts of reducing consumption, reusing resources and recycling material into other useful forms. The growing industry of resource recycling has created the market demand necessary to make recycling and reuse not only an environmental and quality of life issue, but an economic issue as well. Currently, the Department of Public Works (DPW) is actively engaged in designing and implementing programs related to recycling at the Civic Center. Data received from Marin Recycling Center for the year 2000 indicates that approximately 77% of the waste generated at the Civic Center is diverted from the landfill, compared to a Countywide diversion rate of 65.3% and a statewide diversion rate of 42%. To facilitate the collection of recyclable material and subsequently increase the amount of material diverted from the landfill, DPW is in the process of purchasing and distributing various types of recyclable waste bins. Desk side collection bins for employee paper waste will help capture more recyclable waste that will ultimately be picked up by Marin Recycling Center. In addition to paper collection bins, containers for glass, aluminum cans and plastic bottles have been placed centrally in the hallways and in the cafeteria to maximize collection efforts. All of these efforts will increase the recovery rate for recyclables at the Civic Center. As part of the recycling program, an education campaign is being implemented by DPW. The education campaign will facilitate a better understanding by employees of how their efforts contribute to the greening of County Operations, as well as the overall health of their community and the planet. Various recycling programs for paper, bottles and cans, are being operated both formally and informally in County buildings outside of the Civic Center. These efforts involve and educate County employees while contributing to an overall reduction of waste produced by County operations. Beyond County Facilities: Residents and businesses within the county of Marin succeeded in reducing waste going to landfills by 65.3% in the year 2000. This success is due, in part, to efforts made by the nationally recognized Marin Recycling Center in San Rafael. Efforts include an aggressive curbside campaign, consistent outreach and education, and sufficient incentives to residents and businesses to take up the task of diverting recyclables from the landfill. Potential Indicators: • Onsite diversion rates for glass, aluminum, plastic, and paper • Total yardage of waste generated at the Civic Center • Estimating waste generation in terms of green house emissions • Percentage of supplies purchased for County Operations with recycled content Issues for Further Investigation: • Costs and benefits of onsite recycling • Focus on reduction and reuse to supplement recycling efforts Sources: Marin Recycling Center, Marin County Department of Public Works, Marin County Community Development Agency, California Integrated Waste Management Board.

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ECONOMYWater Consumption at the Civic Center Existing Conditions Water is a key resource needed to sustain communities. Rainfall feeds the creeks, streams, and rivers that fill reservoirs, and provide recreation for the residents in Marin. Consumption and conservation of water has long been a focal point for the County of Marin due to the prevalence of drought in past decades. As a result, using this water wisely, has been a primary concern for County operations within the Civic Center. The Department of Public Works has focused conservation efforts on reducing consumption with a variety of measures. The installation of low-flow toilets, extensive education campaigns and utilization of recycled water have contributed to a reduction in use of potable water. The Civic Center Recycled and Potable Water Use Chart suggests a decrease in potable water use over the last five years with a particularly dramatic 34% decline in water consumption in 1999. This decline is primarily due to the installation of a new cooling tower, which uses reclaimed water and is water efficient. Although water consumption in 2000 increased 36% from 1999, there was still an overall 10% decrease compared to 1998. The County utilizes recycled water for landscaping needs and in the three retrofitted cooling towers, which provide heat during the winter months. In the last five years recycled water use has increased an average of 8% per year. The chart below clearly illustrates the growing role recycled water plays in County conservation efforts. In 1999, recycled water use accounted for nearly twice as much as potable water use at the Civic Center.

Civic Center Recycled and Potable Water Use (measured in cubic feet)

010002000300040005000600070008000

1996 1997 1998 1999 2000

RecycledPotable

Future Plans and Programs The conservation measures implemented in the County of Marin by various departments and agencies have contributed to a decrease in consumption of potable and recycled water. Future efforts include the Department of Parks & Open Space plans to retrofit the Civic Center’s landscaped areas with a drip irrigation systems that will decrease the amount of recycled water required to maintain landscaping on the campus. Future water conservation efforts will focus on establishing baselines and setting targets for increased efficiency and reduced consumption.

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Beyond County Facilities The Community Development Agency is currently developing a Green Business Program that will recognize businesses in Marin that are taking steps to conserve water and other resources. Potential Indicators: • Water consumption • Number of conservation techniques employed • Health of water-dependant ecosystems Issues for Further Investigation: • Strategies for further conservation • Developing a countywide water management plan • Establishing baselines and maintaining targets for reduced water consumption Sources: Marin Municipal Water District, Marin County Department of Public Works, Department of Water Resources, Community Development Agency.

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ECONOMYWhere Do We Go From Here? Marin County operations incorporate sustainable practices in a variety of ways. Specific actions taken have lowered energy consumption, reduced waste, reduced pesticide use, led to the recycling of numerous products, diversified the workforce and increased affordable housing in the county. In many cases there is the potential to expand existing programs. By applying the principles of sustainability to all operations County agencies share common goals, while also individually determining the best methods to achieve sustainability within the context of their own operations. Recent developments will facilitate the incorporation of additional sustainable activities. For example, numerous guiding principles and programs have been developed for various County-related activities. Local governments across the country are using the Ahwahnee Principles or similar policies to define the key components of sustainable communities. Businesses have begun adopting “best management practices” that focus on the “greening” of business. In addition, there have been sustainability guidelines developed for green purchasing programs, construction projects and waste management systems, among others. Changes in business practices have added to the availability of sustainable products and models. For example, as the amount of recycled material grows, so does the number of products available that are made from recycled material. It is now possible to purchase paint, tires, carpeting, floor tiles, wood, motor oil, and many office products such as binders, paperclips, and even floppy disks made from recycled materials. “Green” procurement programs are becoming more common. Santa Monica, Alameda County, San Jose, King County (WA) and many others already have already adopted such programs. In addition, the State of California, the EPA, and the National Association of Counties have published guidelines that help local governments make their operations more sustainable. Both the increasing number of recycled products and the growing number of model programs provide new resources for the County of Marin to utilize in the future. The recently adopted County of Marin Strategic Plan: A Blueprint for Excellence in Public Service contains the following four goals: 1. Provide excellent public service 2. Create a sustainable future 3. Promote service excellence 4. Encourage community collaboration and partnering Toward that end it is recommended that Marin County: 1. Continue the annual operations reporting process 2. Identify specific indicators and targets to evaluate County operations over time 3. Expand involvement of County departments and employees in measuring progress towards a

sustainable Marin.

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