HomeMy WebLinkAboutMemo - Mail Packet - 3/2/2021 - Memorandum From John Phelan And Molly Saylor Re: Our Climate Future Draft Two-Year Tactical PlanEnvironmental Services
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MEMORANDUM
Date: February 24, 2021
To: Mayor Troxell and City Councilmembers
Thru: Darin Atteberry, City Manager
Jacqueline Kozak Thiel, Chief Sustainability Officer
From: John Phelan, Energy Services Senior Manager
Molly Saylor, Senior Specialist, Environmental Sustainability
Re: Our Climate Future DRAFT Two-year Tactical Plan
Bottom line: The purpose of this memo is to provide City Council with the draft Our Climate Future
(OCF) Two-Year Tactical Plan. The Tactical Plan provides more detail about anticipated work plans,
potential partnerships, and potential budget requests for this year and next year to advance
implementation towards Our Climate Future goals. The Tactical Plan is not part of the OCF adoption
resolution but rather a complementary document.
Background: This memo provides Council with supplemental materials related to the February 9 th work
session item on Our Climate Future, specifically the Two-year Tactical Plan. Our Climate Future is
scheduled for Council consideration on March 16. This Tactical Plan will incorporate final revisions and
be included in the Council materials for that meeting; however, the Tactical Plan is not part of the
adoption resolution for Our Climate Future.
The Tactical Plan expands the level of detail for Next Moves that have been identified for specific
implementation steps this year and next, addressing equity, climate mitigation, adaptation, and resilience
with a triple bottom approach. This provides Council insight into the priorities, work plans for staff, and
intentions to engage community partners.
The Tactical Plan provides detailed descriptions for implementation actions for each of the Big Move
categories for the next two years, 2021 and 2022, which begin to increase community capacity to:
Draw down greenhouse gas emissions, waste, and energy use, while increasing renewable
electricity, carbon sequestration, and waste prevention;
Co-create and share community leadership to develop partnerships for implementation;
Adapt to a changing climate to improve community resilience;
Plan for investment in a portfolio of strategies which provide net benefits;
Ensure all parts of the community are included and see themselves in the solutions proposed,
and
Track the goals to measure success and progress toward achieving sustainability and
resilience.
Next Moves were selected for the Tactical Plan based on alignment with existing initiatives and
resources, priorities from the community, sensitivity to COVID19 response and recovery conditions, and
what needs to as we aim for 2030 goals. Next Moves which are dependent on new and/or
ongoing funding are identified in their respective descriptions. Some of the associated impacts,
investments and identified partners of the Tactical Plan Next Moves are still in development.
The two-year focus aligns with the Our Climate Future evergreen calibration cycle which provides
ongoing opportunities for the community to review and reprioritize Next Moves based on changing
conditions. Even within a two-year cycle, tactical plan strategies may shift as budgets are set,
partnerships change, and workplans are calibrated. Strategies will be reviewed annually alongside key
2
metrics like the carbon inventory, and individual strategies may be revised as needed on the climate
action plan dashboard.
The Next Move descriptions in this Tactical Plan include:
Case studies (where applicable);
A description for How this could look in Fort Collins over the next ten years;
A description of actions for 2021 and 2022;
Lead and support partners, and
Impact and investment tables
o For enabling or emerging strategies, the indicated investment may be for the
development phase only.
o The investments shown in the tables include planned community investments
(including City investments as part of overall community investment) in 2021 and 2022
and an estimate of the required investment for full implementation of the Next Move
through 2030. Distinctions between community investment, City resources or external
funding are described where available in the corresponding bullets. These expanded
tables are shown together in an overview table at the end of the plan.
Next Steps for OCF Tactical Plan
Revisions based upon final review of all tables and descriptions
Provide additional distinction between city and community investment for estimated new
investment
Final alignment to the Our Climate Future Plan
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Our Climate Future Two-year Tactical Plan (2021 - 2022)
Introduction
Our Climate Future (OCF) is our community guide
to creating the carbon neutral, zero waste, and
100% renewable electricity future we desire. This
Tactical Plan presents details for implementation
of Next Move strategies while addressing equity,
climate mitigation, adaptation and resilience with a
triple bottom approach.
This document can also help advocacy groups and
other partners see where the City is seeking
partners or leaders and is a complementary
resource to the Our Climate Future Action Guide
which provides flexible options for businesses,
residents, industries and institutions to find their
place of action and leadership.
This tactical plan provides detailed descriptions for
implementation actions for the next two years,
2021 and 2022, and begin to increase community
capacity to:
Draw down greenhouse gas emissions, waste, and energy use, while increasing
renewable electricity, carbon sequestration, and waste prevention;
Co-create and share community leadership to develop and partnerships for
implementation;
Adapt to a changing climate to improve community resilience;
Plan for investment in a portfolio of strategies which provide net benefits;
Ensure all parts of the community are included and see themselves in the solutions
proposed; and
Track the goals to measure success and progress toward achieving sustainability and
resilience.
Our Climate Future uses an intentional systems approach for solutions which address climate, energy
and waste goals while positively impacting the daily life of residents, business operations, and
supporting community-defined sustainability priorities. The natural resources upon which we all depend
air, water, and land - are distributed across the Big Moves in many interrelated and interdependent
Next Moves.
The following pages describe in detail the Our Climate Future Next Moves for each of the Big Move
categories identified for the next two years. The two-year focus aligns with the Our Climate Future
calibration cycle which provides ongoing opportunities for the community to review and reprioritize
Next Moves based on changing conditions.
Big and Next Moves
Big Moves is the OCF way of describing
the transformational outcomes which
connect our specific goals for climate,
energy and waste with the
sustainable Fort Collins. Next Moves
are the specific strategies and tactics
that lead to transformational
outcomes of the Big Moves. Each Big
Move has an associated set of Next
Moves. The Next Moves are evaluated for
their impact on goals, benefits and costs,
potential results for improving equity and
resilience.
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This two-year Tactical Plan takes into context the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on residents,
businesses and local government. The pandemic has severely impacted the communit capacity to
take on new initiatives, from financial, engagement and participation perspectives.
The primary opportunity of this first cycle of Next Moves is to further develop partnerships and leverage
community expertise to improve the equitability and accessibility of existing efforts. Partnership
development also helps broaden leadership and action across the community. This allows the most
ambitious decade of climate action to begin with a solid foundation.
The intent of a two-year review and calibration cycle is to be able to refine the Next Moves over time to
align with the community targets. Recognizing the flexibility and opportunity inherent in the evergreen
approach described above, staff suggests considering the majority of Next Moves (those that are not
critical path strategies) as a flexible portfolio that can be adjusted within a two-year period and over
nd to market and technology developments. Tactical Plan
strategies may change accordingly and will be reviewed annually alongside key metrics like the carbon
inventory. Some strategies may be revised as needed on the climate action plan dashboard.
2021-2022 Next Moves
Criteria for selecting Next Moves in the two year
tactical plan included:
Alignment with existing and near-term
resources
Priorities from the community
What now to be
successful over time
Where there is already momentum from
community partners.
These Next Moves are identified by shaded rows in
the Our Climate Future plan (also organized by Big
Move) for cross-referencing.
The Next Move descriptions in this Tactical Plan
include:
Case studies (where applicable);
A description for How this could look in
Fort Collins over the next ten years;
A description of actions for 2021 and
2022;
Lead and support partners, and
Impact and investment tables
Investments and Impact Estimates
Two types of investments are shown in this
tactical plan in standard and expanded tables:
Two-year start-up investments that may be
funded by the City through existing program
budgets or budget offers for 2022. For these
enabling or small-scale strategies, the
indicated investment may be for the
development phase only.
Cumulative community investments to 2030
(for large-scale direct actions). For these,
investment scoring is based on the total
investment necessary for the Next Move.
Distinctions between community investment,
City resources or external funding are
described where available in the related
bullets.
Impacts shown reflect the full mitigation,
equity, or resilience potential at scale in 2030.
Mitigation and equity impacts are a new
feature of climate, waste and energy work
and continuous improvement from one
tactical plan to the next will be key.
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How to read the tables
Big Move: The transformational outcome that helps achieved the waste, climate, and energy goals while
addressing community priorities.
Next Move: The strategy or tactic that will help achieve the Big Move.
Estimated new investment: Initial investments that will be made in the 2021/22 timeframe to advance
the Next Move.
Mitigation: The potential of the strategy to lower carbon emissions
Equity: The potential of the strategy to address equity
Resilience: The potential of the strategy to address resilience
2030 Cumulative Community Investment (for direct, large-scale actions only): The estimated total
investments that need to be made through 2030 related to this Next Move.
2030 Annual Carbon Savings (for direct, large-scale actions only): The estimated impact on carbon
emissions in 2030 (the next milestone year).
Note: Many Next Moves are marked as enabling which means there is not a direct impact on carbon
reductions but are necessary for direct actions to be successful. Some Next Moves are marked as de
minimis which means they have a very small scale impact on carbon reductions and are not typically
quantified to the same extent.
Big Move Next Move
Estimated
new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
2030
Cumulative
Community
Investment
2030 Annual
carbon
savings (MT)
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Mitigation, Equity and Resilience
Equity in Implementation
Like the Our Climate Future Plan itself, implementation of OCF centers in equity, leading with race. Some ways
this is reflected throughout this tactical plan are below, and this list will continue to grow as we continue our
equity journey and learn from community leaders and partners.
Making space at the table, seeking community partners and leaders for Next Moves
Applying the to improve the
equitability of a Next Move or tactic
Seeking community input on the design and implementation of a Next Move
Co-creating improvements with Plan Ambassadors and Community Partners
Incorporating a language justice approach (i.e., ensuring all community members can have their
voices heard without their preferred language being a barrier)
Applying the principles of targeted universalism (i.e., designing for all by acknowledging and
addressing a spectrum of needs and experiences)
Considering disaggregated community demographics data (i.e., data split out by identities) to
understand and address disparities in our services and programs
Critical Path and High Impact Strategies
The Next Moves included in this tactical plan represent the first steps to large-scale reductions in carbon,
including both the first steps on critical path strategies (composting, transit, and 100% renewable electricity)
and other high impact strategies that support a flexible portfolio of next moves that will evolve over time (e.g.
efficiency programs, electrification, electric vehicles).
Resilient Community
Though Our Climate Future is not intended to be a comprehensive community resilience and adaptation plan,
climate resilience has been woven into the plan and will be a core consideration in implementing Next Moves.
In the next two years, we have focus on water resources and conservation, air quality, sheltering and
integrating climate considerations into City operational and strategic plans. Future calibration cycles (every two
years) offer ongoing opportunities to further explore and develop next moves related to preparedness, land
management and infrastructure.
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Table of Contents
Introduction ......................................................................................................................................1
How to read the tables .......................................................................................................................3
Mitigation, Equity and Resilience........................................................................................................4
Table of Contents ...............................................................................................................................5
Big Move 1 - Shared Leadership and Community Partnership: .............................................................7
Big Move 2 - Zero Waste Neighborhoods: .........................................................................................12
Big Move 3 - Climate Resilient Community: .......................................................................................16
Big Move 4 - Convenient Transportation Choices: .............................................................................23
Big Move 5 - Live, Work, Play Nearby: ..............................................................................................26
Big Move 6 - Efficient, Emissions Free Buildings: ...............................................................................28
Big Move 7 - Healthy Affordable Housing: .........................................................................................34
Big Move 8 - Local, Affordable and Healthy Food: .............................................................................37
Big Move 9 - Healthy Local Economy and Jobs...................................................................................38
Big Move 10 - Zero Waste Economy. .................................................................................................42
Big Move 11 - Healthy Natural Spaces: ..............................................................................................43
Big Move 12 - 100% Renewable Electricity. .......................................................................................46
Big Move 13 - Electric cars and fleets. ...............................................................................................50
Summary of Tactical Plan Next Moves ..............................................................................................53
Summary of Quantified Direct Greenhouse Gas Reduction Next Moves .............................................56
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Big Move 1 - Shared Leadership and Community Partnership : Centered
in equity and leading with race, all parts of our community lead,
implement and benefit from Our Climate Future
As highlighted in the Equity for All, Leading with Race section of the Our Climate Future Plan, Our
Climate Future acknowledges that Fort Collins, along with the entire country, has a history of racism and
discrimination. Through Our Climate Future, Fort Collins community members and institutions are
deeply committed to changing this, so that moving forward, identity is not a predictor o
outcomes in life. Instead of continuing to treat climate action like a math problem that only requires
technical solutions, this Big Move focuses on the changes needed to ensure that Black, Indigenous, and
People of Color (BIPOC) and historically underrepresented community members have equitable access
to the same resources and opportunities as other parts of the community and serves as a foundation for
equity considerations throughout all parts of the plan. Additionally, this Big Move is the
acknowledgment that the City is one of many actors in these
alone. We need everyone to be able to participate in creating a sustainable future if we are going to
achieve our ambitious community environmental goals.
Next Move: Identify opportunities where the City and the community can partner on
funding applications to advance Our Climate Future Big Moves
How it could look in Fort Collins: Staff and community members will actively seek opportunities to jointly
apply for funding which serve community needs and work to accomplish the OCF Big Moves. For
example, an organization local to Fort Collins that is actively working on equity and transportation issues
might identify a state or federal grant focused on providing subsidized sustainable transportation
alternatives such as e-bikes to low-to-moderate income households. This organization could reach out
to City staff and partner to apply for the grant, ideally serving community needs and increasing the
possibility of being awarded grant funds. The City could also identify partners for grants.
2021/22 efforts: The City will identify at least one community partner who is interested in jointly
applying for funding and begin seeking out funding opportunities that address mutual needs.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins, various departments (Seeking Leaders)
Support partner: Community organizations and individuals who wish to partner (Seeking Partners)
Impact and investment: This work will utilize existing staff and associated budgets.
Estimated investment could include the following and will be determined according to specific
partnerships and funding applications:
Staff time devoted to partnerships and grant proposals.
Possible matching funds for grant proposals.
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
See description Enabling Medium Medium
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Next Move: Design an equitable implementation structure of the Our Climate Future
Plan
How it could look in Fort Collins: To equitably implement the Our Climate Future Plan, it is critical that
action is taken by all parts of the community, including historically underrepresented groups,
businesses, residents, neighborhoods, institutions, industries, local government, and advocacy groups.
Key to making sure that every part of the community has a place of action and leadership, we will need
to design an equitable implementation structure that prioritizes partnerships of all kinds, including with
historically underrepresented groups. Previous environmental plans implementation structures could
be adapted to put equitable engagement and partnership/leadership models at the core of design in
order to implement the Our Climate Future Plan.
2021/22 efforts: In partnership with local leaders (of equity work, historically underrepresented groups,
the business community, neighborhoods, advocacy, etc.), staff will refine the implementation structure
(e.g. staff and community teams, ongoing communications) for Our Climate Future. This process will
take place throughout 2021 and 2022.
Lead partner: Local leaders and the City of Fort Collins Environmental Services Department (Seeking
Leaders)
Support partner: Our Climate Future Plan Ambassadors and Community Partners; City Equity Office
(once established) (Seeking Partners)
Impact and investment: Investment to implement this Next Move may show up across several Next
Moves.
Estimated investment could include the following and will continue to be developed through 2021 with
the community:
Compensation for community partners (e.g., Plan Ambassador and Community Partner
program: $13,000 in 2020)
Engagement and outreach
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
See description Enabling High Medium
Next Move: Reimagine the Community Advisory Committee to
Strategic Objective to center equity for all, leading with race and explore
opportunities to share decision-making
How it could look in Fort Collins: A key part of redesigning equitable implementation of Our Climate
Future will be transforming the Community Advisory Committee (CAC) to center equity for all, leading
with race in how the committee operates. This may require that the Committee add additional members
with strong relationships to a diverse spectrum of historically underrepresented groups. The Community
Advisory Committee is currently an advisory body that reviews staff documents, City policy and budget
proposals and provides feedback. While staff often incorporate feedback from the Community Advisory
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Committee, the committee members do not currently have the ability to make decisions. This
reimagining process would explore possibilities for increased decision-making abilities of the Community
Advisory Committee. The focus of the Community Advisory Committee could also expand to function as
an equity accountability committee for Our Climate Future implementation.
2021/22 efforts: In partnership with current CAC members and local leaders in equity, staff will facilitate
exploration of possible decision-making
capabilities in Our Climate Future implementation. This process will take place throughout 2021 and
2022.
Lead partner: CAC members, local equity leaders (will identify partners during implementation), and City
of Fort Collins Environmental Services Department,
Support partner: City Equity Office (once established)
Impact and investment: The Environmental Services climate budget has historically contributed between
$3,000 - $10,000 annually towards the CAP Community Advisory Committee. Staff time coordinating the
CAC utilizes existing staff and associated budgets. Estimated investment could include translation and
interpretation, childcare, transportation, and meals to reduce barriers to participation on the CAC.
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
See description Enabling High Low
Next Move: Partner to provide greater access to environmental education for Spanish-
speaking community members
How it could look in Fort Collins: It has been identified that current City environmental education
programs are rarely offered in Spanish. To effectively provide access to environmental education for
Spanish-speakers, the long-term effort to resource programs in other languages will start with this Next
Move. Eventually, a guide to best practices for City Staff in creating multilingual communications and
education will be needed to make multilingual education programs a standard.
2021/22 efforts: In 2021 staff will identify and study best practice environmental education programs
offered by the City that are currently offered in both Spanish and English such as the Healthy Homes
program. Then, staff will focus on creating a pilot Spanish-speaking Shift Your Ride project that could be
used as a template for other programs as the City expands and continues to work with community
partners to enhance environmental education programs. In 2022, staff and community leaders will
expand to additional environmental education programs.
Lead partner: Environmental Services Department, Spanish-speaking community leaders
Support partner: FC Moves Department
Impact and investment
Estimated investment could include:
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Compensation for Spanish-
Translation and interpretation of education programs.
Staff time to coordinate this new work, utilizing existing budgets.
The pilot Spanish-speaking Shift Your Ride focus group project is budgeted for $2,500
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
See description Enabling Medium Medium
Next Move: Provide unconscious bias training to staff and partners involved in Our
Climate Future implementation
How it could look in Fort Collins: To center the implementation process in equity for all, leading with
race, it will be essential that community partners and staff engaged in implementation are provided
with unconscious bias and racial equity training. This will improve the equity education, capacity, and
awareness of those involved. This education will provide participants with the language and concepts
needed to address and undo inequities, racism, and bias as we work to embed equity in
implementation. Equity and inclusion is also an identified Council priority.
A virtual education curriculum could be developed as a training for staff and partners participating in
Our Climate Future implementation. During the curriculum, participants could meet periodically to
discuss and become more comfortable having conversations about unconscious bias and racial equity
together. The training will be optional, but staff may identify specific projects where the training would
be mandatory.
2021/22 efforts: In 2021 staff and community partners will identify best practices for deploying large-
scale unconscious bias and racial equity training and select an approach for providing education for all
people participating in Our Climate Future implementation. Then, in 2022, the curriculum and approach
could be deployed as a pilot after being tested, reviewed, and improved. This will likely require
resources through the BFO process to implement.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins, local community leaders
Support partner: Local community leaders, City Equity Office (once established)
Impact and investment: New investment will be determined through implementation by identifying
existing trainings and external facilitators to guide this work. Staff do not know how much this could cost
at this time as it is still in early stages of development and more details about how to implement will be
needed to estimate costs.
Estimated investment could include:
Compensation for Spanish-speaking commun
Translation and interpretation of education programs.
Staff time to coordinate this new work, utilizing existing budgets.
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Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
See description Enabling Medium Medium
Next Move: Continue, and where appropriate expand, upon durable partners beyond
Fort Collins to achieve climate, energy, and waste goals
How it could look in Fort Collins: This next move recognizes that achieving the Our Climate Future Big
Moves requires action at the community, regional, statewide, national and international scales and
partnerships across all sectors. It continues existing partnerships, such as those with Colorado
Communities for Climate Action, Platte River Power Authority, Colorado State University, the Urban
Sustainability Directors Network, and many, many more. Where a partnership might be expanded upon,
and thus, require any new investments, it is addressed in a separate Next Move.
Fort Collins partners with 36 Colorado local governments to advance statewide policy action in
alignment with Our Climate Future. Larimer County has adopted a climate smart Larimer County
Framework and continues to seek input related to how the County can support residents impacted by
climate hazards. The County seeks to act as a regional convener and support local partners in their
efforts to address climate action. As one more example, Fort Collins is one of four communities in the
municipal utility that is Platte River Power Authority. As w the
potential to impact environmental goals, equity and resilience can increase significantly depending on
the effort.
2021/22 efforts: Partner with these various entities to advance the Our Climate Future Big Moves, the
and support national and international best practices toward a more
people-centered approach to sustainability.
Lead partner: Varies by partnership, e.g., Fort Collins Utilities is the lead on the Platte River Power
Authority partnership, Fort Collins Environmental Services is the lead on the Colorado Communities for
Climate Action partnership, etc.
Support partner: Numerous internal City departments and community, regional, state, national, and
international partners depending on the specific topic.
Impact and investment: No new investments are included within this next move; any new investment
would come as a result of implementing another next move, see specific examples above.
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
See description Enabling Medium Medium
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Big Move 2 - Zero Waste Neighborhoods : We can all share and reuse
so we don't have to buy things we won't regularly use and are able to
recycle or compost the rest
On average, Fort Collins residents and businesses throw away over 100,000 tons of trash a year (about 3
lbs. per person per day), much of which could have been recycled or composted. Some of that trash is
; or rded.
mean much to us but did have a high impact on greenhouse gases and natural resources. Zero Waste
Neighborhoods is about helping people and businesses reduce waste and emissions, reuse, and feel
comfortable sharing, which saves money and supports a more circular economy. By connecting with
each other more, we build and strengthen relationships creating a stronger community now and in
times when neighbors and businesses need to work together through disruptive events like floods or
extreme temperatures.
This Big Move also acknowledges that sometimes, we are left with materials that need to be recycled or
composted and that not everyone in Fort Collins currently has access to these services. Making sure that
services are available to all parts of the community is crucial to creating Zero Waste Neighborhoods .
Next Move: Explore additional community-needs donation bins
How it could look in Fort Collins: This strategy was suggested by a community member who wanted to
see additional donation bins around the community that would be flexible to the needs of the
community. The idea was born out of the COVID-19 pandemic when there were unanticipated needs
across the community for PPE, hygiene articles, dry food goods, etc. This also recognizes that even
without a pandemic, community needs fluctuate and flexibility is needed for collecting donations.
Donations could be new items or represent an important form of community reuse.
2021/22 efforts: In 2022, community groups who wish to take the lead role on this strategy could be
supported by the , possibly leveraging
the Timberline Recycling Center as a test site for a flexible donation bin.
Lead partner: Community groups and organizations that provide services to the community (Seeking
Partners)
Support partner: City of Fort Collins Environmental Services Department, other City Departments as
appropriate
Impact and investment:
The primary investment would be staff time to support if a leader in the community took this
on. If no community leader is identified, no new investment would be expected in this two-year
timeframe.
Once the strategy is ready to pilot, marginal costs to purchase bins would be expected.
Estimated new investments include the cost of bin(s) and associated awareness work about the
bin system.
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Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
$20,000 Enabling Medium Medium
Next Move: Expand recycling education campaign
Case study: Atlanta Feet on the Street is a Recycling Education Campaign. The Department of Public
Works (DPW) is working to improve the quantity and quality of recyclables collected from single-family
homes across Atlanta, to better serve residents and achieve the ci rsion goals. The Feet on
the Street program puts a team of people on the streets of Atlanta to audit residential recycling carts for
contamination, provides residents real-time feedback on the quality of their recycling through the
gs left on the cart if contamination is found, and delivers a broad-based educational campaign
across the city to improve recycling outcomes.
How it could look in Fort Collins: The City of Fort Collins already conducts recycling education and would
explore ways to conduct smaller scale waste audits, like Atlanta h, to improve City
programming and metrics tracking, awareness campaigns, education materials, and possibly even give
real-time feedback to recyclers. Part of expanding campaigns would include applying an equity lens,
creating more culturally relevant messages, and incorporating language justice. The goal of expanding
recycling education, using small-scale waste audits and other mechanisms, is to get more people
recycling and recycling right (and reducing contamination in the recycling stream as behavior improves!)
2021/22 efforts: In 2021, staff would look at models in other cities more closely and use this information
to request funds in the future to implement the program. Visioning work in 2021 around the
Recycling Ambassador program could also consider how volunteers could contribute to expanded
recycling education. Staff would also work with BIPOC community members and organizations to
improve the cultural relevance of messaging and have more materials in different languages.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins Environmental Services Department
Support partner: (Seeking Partners)
Impact and investment:
A vehicle (potentially EV) outfitted with tipping equipment for rolling waste sorts
o Recognizing the importance of transitioning to electric vehicles, staff would explore if
available electric options could meet this need.
Waste auditing materials
Volunteer coordination or staff members to conduct campaigns in neighborhoods
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
$150,000 Enabling Low Low
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Next Move: Implement universal recycling ordinance
Case study: The City of Austin has a Universal Recycling and Composting ordinance that requires
commercial property owners to ensure that tenants and employees have access to recycling.
How it could look in Fort Collins: The City of Fort Collins passed a Community Recycling Ordinance in
2016 that requires waste haulers to provide recycling services to all their commercial and multi-family
customers by June 30, 2021 unless the location is granted a variance by the City for specific reasons
outlined in the ordinance. This strategy Next Move because it is critical to reaching
our waste and carbon goals.
2021/22 efforts: Staff will focus on supporting the haulers, the multi-family community, and businesses
through this change by providing educational materials, in-person assistance, and evaluating variance
requests.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins Environmental Services Department
Support partner: Private trash and recycling haulers, commercial and multi-family property owners
Impact and investment:
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
2030
Cumulative
Community
Investment
2030
Annual
carbon
savings
(MT)
$2.6M Medium High Low $27.6M 12,740
Next Move: Explore universal composting ordinance and related composting
infrastructure/facilities
Case study: The City of Austin has a Universal Recycling and Composting ordinance that requires food-
permitted businesses to ensure that employees have convenient access to diversion methods that keep
organic materials (like food scraps) out of landfills.
How it could look in Fort Collins: Exploring a Universal Composting ordinance and related
infrastructure/facilities t is required to meet our waste and carbon goals.
This Next Move is a continuation of work that the City has already begun over the past five years
through the Regional Wasteshed planning efforts and is part of the critical path to getting to Zero Waste
and 80% carbon reduction in 2030.
2021/22 efforts: Staff will explore pathways to food scrap and enhanced yard waste composting,
through infrastructure and policy, for implementation in subsequent years. Continuing participation in
the Regional Wasteshed effort will be a key part of this work.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins Environmental Services Department
Support partner: Regional partners
Impact and investment:
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Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
2030
Cumulative
Community
Investment
2030
Annual
carbon
savings
(MT)
$5.0M High High Low $40M 59,600
Next Move: Implement disposable grocery bag policy
How it could look in Fort Collins: The Fort Collins City Council passed a disposable bag policy that, if
supported by a ballot referendum, would ban plastic bags and put a 12-cent fee on paper bags at large
grocers starting May 1, 2022. priority to reduce plastic pollution.
2021/22 efforts: If voters support the Council adopted disposable bag ordinance in 2021, staff will work
to transition the community through outreach, the provision of free reusable bags, and work with
grocers to develop implementation plans.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins Environmental Services Department
Support partner: Large grocers, various service providers that work with low-income households
Impact and investment: The investment shown below would cover implementation and initial ordinance
administration in the first two years. These costs would be covered by the bag fee revenue. More
specifically, the investment includes:
Outreach and awareness efforts
Free reusable bags for low-income households
Staff resources for implementation and administration
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
$87,500 Low Medium Low
Next Move: Identify barriers to accessing recycling services
How it could look in Fort Collins: This strategy is about understanding the barriers that different parts of
the community, including BIPOC and historically underrepresented community members, have in
accessing recycling services. Gaining a better understanding will require staff to work with groups,
organizations and individuals in the community to understand their lived experience around our waste
system.
2021/22 efforts: City staff will build new relationships and partnerships to explore these barriers,
understanding whether some barriers are addressed through the Community Recycling Ordinance and if
not, to understand possible solutions.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins Environmental Services Department
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Support partner: Community organizations and individuals, including BIPOC and historically
underrepresented community members. (Seeking Partners)
Impact and investment:
Compensating community partners for their lived experience in support of applying an
equity lens.
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
$7,000 Enabling Medium Low
Big Move 3 - Climate Resilient Community: People, buildings,
watersheds and ecosystems are prepared for the threats of climate
change.
Adapting to our changing climate, learning and improving after challenging events, and preparing for
future changes make a big difference in how our community is able to thrive. The threats of climate
change cannot be tackled by a single entity. It is crucial to plan for disruption and to foster and
strengthen regional, community, and personal networks by supporting our community members so we
are better prepared and can adjust to those effects. Fort Collins has a significant history of resilience and
adaptation work in stormwater planning and infrastructure, expanding and protecting our drinking
water sources, maintaining an underground electric distribution system, and addressing regional
outdoor and indoor air quality concerns, and still there is plenty more to do. Moving forward, there
continue to be opportunities to partner with community members and organizations as our community
plans and prepares for the increasing effects of climate change in Fort Collins.
Next Move: Expand and enhance water efficiency programs and incentives
Case study: There are many Cities and Utilities to look to that offer programs that could be
complementary to Fort Collins. Often communities with more constrained water resources and less
available supplies lead the way with ever changing technology and innovation. California, Texas and
other front range communities in Colorado can provide examples of successful programs or variations to
existing programs that could enhance current services.
How it could look in Fort Collins: Fort Collins Utilities currently offers numerous water efficiency
programs and incentives, but our offerings are not exhaustive and as climate change creates more of a
strain on our water resources, we will need to be even more innovative and responsive to changing and
growing needs in our community.
2021/22 efforts: There are three main efforts currently underway:
1) With free technical assistance made possible by the Colorado Water Conservation Board, Fort Collins
Utilities is developing residential water budgets in 2021. Budgets will be unique to each property, based
on the number of occupants and irrigable area. These budgets provide customers with improved water
literacy, better understanding of what their use should be compared to what their use is. They can be
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used as program eligibility criteria and help target messaging to those whose use is consistently higher
than their budget. In other communities, budgets are used as an innovative mechanism to address
water shortage in lieu of water restrictions and as a budget-based rate structure.
2) The Xeriscape Incentive Program expanded in 2020 to offer rebates to HOAs and commercial water
customers interested in reducing outdoor water use by swapping out high-water landscapes for water-
wise ones. These projects save millions of gallons of water annually, and most have converted to native
and regionally-adapted plant species that overall require less water, nutrient and maintenance/mowing
inputs. 2021 marks the second year of this program. Rebates are entirely funded by grants. Unless
pending grant funding is approved, the Xeriscape Incentive Program will not have budget to support
customers in 2022.
3) Fort Collins Utilities Water Conservation staff are conducting program evaluations to identify
opportunities to increase the diversity of participation, remove barriers and improve inclusivity, starting
with the Sprinkler Assessment Program.
Lead partner: Fort Collins Utilities Water Conservation
Support partners: Water Budgets, Utilities: Water Resources, Customer Connections Service Unit (CCSU)
-Communications and Marketing and Finance, Colorado Water Conservation Board; Xeriscape Incentive
Program, Utilities: Water Conservation, CCSU-Communications and Marketing, CCSU-Community
Engagement, Colorado Water Conservation Board, United States Department of Interior, Bureau of
Reclamation
Impact and investment: costs are limited to communications and currently
budgeted at $2,000. The majority of current Xeriscape Incentive Program for HOAs and Commercial
customers budget goes toward customer rebates:
2021 budget - $100,000,
2022 budget - $0 unless grant funding approved. Pending grant amount is $200,000.
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
$300,000 Low Low Medium
Next Move: Update codes to address existing and new developmen d
outdoor water efficiency
Case study: There are many communities to look to with above-code energy and water efficiency
standards and land use codes that have successfully and comprehensively incorporated water efficiency
into planning and development standards. Castle Rock, CO; Austin, TX; and Santa Fe, NM have
developed efficiency standards associated with new d
use. Standards that could be adopted entirely or in part include, International Green Construction Code
(IGCC), RESNET HERS H20, and/or Water Efficiency Rating Score (WERS). Colorado Water Conservation
Board and its partners offer examples and guidance for greater integration of water efficiency into land
use practices and codes: https://westernresourceadvocates.org/land-use-planning-for-water-efficiency/
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How it could look in Fort Collins: While Fort Collins has standards codified in the Municipal Code
(Chapter 5 Buildings and Building Regulations and Chapter 26 - Utilities) and Land Use Code, there are
areas of development that currently lack efficiency standards. Example code areas that could increase
efficiency and conservation standards, but would likely need additional resources to implement include:
Single-family residential outdoor water efficiency (landscapes and irrigation standards)
Indoor water fixture efficiency standards outlined in plumbing codes, which are mostly
minimum standards, consistent with Colorado St
standards
Year-round outdoor watering schedules to minimize day-time watering and over-
irrigation associated with daily watering
Codes can provide mechanisms for above-code development incentives, such as Metro Districts. Often
communities begin with voluntary programs and incentives and progress towards codifying certain
elements to ensure efficiency is achieved in all developments, as appropriate.
2021/22 efforts: There are currently three efforts underway:
1) Water Conserv
include incentives for more water efficient developments in 2021.
2) Municipal Code updates presented to Council in Q4, 2021 will propose to improve energy and
water efficiency in Chapter 5 Building and Building Regulations.
3) The creation of a revised Metro District process is being considered in 2021 and will propose
above-code energy and water efficiency requirements to receive approval as a Metro District.
Lead partner: Water S and Water Conservation; Municipal
Code, Chapter 5 updates: Building Services
Support partner: Metro Distr pal Code,
Chapter 5 updates: Utilities ergy Services and Water Conservation
Impact and investment: The code work utilizes existing staff and associated budgets. The cumulative
cost impact for these three efforts will depend on the number of developments that occur and based on
a defined timeframe. These efforts will result in ongoing benefits. Impacts should be calculated based on
any incremental cost increase to comply with new codes and the net cost or benefit associated with
development in a Metro District or Water Supply Requirement compared to traditional costs. Further
impacts and costs resulting from the above-code updates are planned for evaluation concurrently with
the update work and are currently unknown.
Estimated new investment is dependent on the number of developments in 2021/22 and includes:
Costs to builders and developers in meeting code.
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
<$1M Low Low Medium
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Next Move: Adopt a holistic approach to integrated water resource planning and
management (One Water Approach)
Case study: One Water is a progressive planning and implementation approach to managing water
resources for long-term resilience and reliability, meeting both community and environmental needs.
The One Water approach is an effective business practice being used by cities, utilities, and other water
sectors around the world that encourages holistic thinking and practices toward managing water. The
that outlines a systematic process
that can be used to guide the development and implementation of a One Water framework.
How it could look in Fort Collins: The current and predicted future impacts of climate change threaten
water resources in the Cache la Poudre River wa
water managers. The City can most effectively meet these challenges by developing a One Water
framework that can be used to improve cross-departmental and multi-organizational integration and
collaboration; encourage innovative planning, projects, and programs that achieve multiple benefits;
identify opportunities and synergies that maximize the use nite budgetary and water
resources; and ultimately, build long-term resilience and reliability for both the community and
environment.
2021/2022 efforts: In 2021 and 2022, staff will continue to maintain momentum toward developing a
One Water framework by forming a cross-departmental One Water Leaders team; improving cross-
departmental communication; providing outreach and education opportunities to other City staff and
leadership; continuing to engage and participate on the Water Research One Water Cities
Development of Guidance Documents and Assessment Metrics convening the One Water
Leaders te 2 One Water Pilot Projects.
Lead partner: Fort Collins Utilities Water Quality Services Division Watershed Program
Support partners: Utilities: Water Production Division, Water Resources Division, Water Reclamation &
Biosolids Division, Water Systems Engineering Division, Environmental Regulatory Affairs Division,
Customer Connection -Water Conservation; Community Services: Natural Areas, Parks, and Parks
Planning
Impact and investment:
2021/2022 costs will be limited to staff time dedicated from One Water leaders.
The information collected in 2021 will be used to inform the development of a budget offer
in 2022 to formally develop a One Water framework in 2023/2024, which can help inform
longer term costs for implementation and staffing.
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
See description Low Low Medium
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Next Move: Educate and communicate existing emergency sheltering process and
explore expanded options for disproportionately affected groups
Case study: Ensuring that community members know and understand what to do during community
emergencies that may include displacement from homes is a crucial component of emergency response.
Expanding sheltering options for disproportionately affected groups such as those experiencing
homelessness or groups located in disaster zones with fewer financial resources, will provide assistance
to those most in need and/or those directly affected.
How it could look in Fort Collins: More information can be shared about the existing process for
with additional education and outreach in partnership
with regional groups such as Larimer County, local service agencies and community groups, especially
those that work with and serve non-English speaking community members. The City and community
partners can also begin exploring how to expand options for sheltering for marginalized groups during
smaller emergencies such as wildfire smoke events.
2021/22 efforts: The City can begin researching best practice examples of ways to set up clean air spaces
for community members who are disproportionately impacted during wildfire smoke events and explore
what options may be available with partners.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins
Support partners: Larimer County, Fort Collins Rescue Mission, American Red Cross, Catholic Charities,
Murphy Center/Homeward Alliance
Impact and investment: This work utilizes existing staff in multiple departments.
While not anticipated at this time, future investments could include:
Engagement and outreach regarding sheltering and translation to Spanish.
Investments from community partners such as expanded operational hours, facility use,
staffing and other resources needed to expand sheltering options.
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
No new
investment Low Medium High
Next Move: Partner with trusted community sites to provide resources and
information during community emergencies (Resilience Hubs)
Case study: Urban Sustainability Directors Network has developed guidance for cities to use existing or
new trusted sites to provide resources and information during community emergencies.
How it could look in Fort Collins: Facilities such as community centers, faith-based organizations and
others could be used to provide coordination and communication and distribute resources and other
services during disruptive events.
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2021/22 efforts: Northside Aztlan Community Center will be modified in 2021 to increase the build
energy resilience with battery storage and could operate at a limited function for up to 72 hours in the
event of power outages. This would enable the site to have multiple functions during emergencies,
while offering reduced daily operational costs. This is one example of how this type of resource can be
developed and used to improve community preparedness and response during community-level events.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins
Support partner: State of Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA)
Impact and investment: Total project cost: $425,000 with a $200,000 match from DOLA. This funding is
already appropriated as a capital project.
Estimated investments include:
New battery storage and control system
Energy efficiency upgrades
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
See description Low Medium High
Next Move: Ensure that air quality levels and information about related health
concerns is representative, easily accessible, and broadly communicated
Case study: Monitoring and reporting air pollution data contributes to increased awareness of air quality
issues and potential health impacts, and identification of opportunities to improve local air quality
conditions. Measured data are also used to forecast future air quality impacts, such as ozone alert days,
and to determine compliance with Federal and State standards. The Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) leads in these communication efforts (https://www.epa.gov/outdoor-air-quality-data), and many
local communities augment this with local monitoring and communication efforts. Improving air quality
is an identified Council priority.
How it could look in Fort Collins: To reduce health risks during adverse air quality events, it is important
to:
Effectively communicate when and where air quality conditions pose a health risk;
Communicate actions that community members can take to protect themselves from
smoke and other pollution exposure; and
Empower community members to take actions to reduce pollution.
The City could improve communication strategies by expanding monitoring efforts, and identifying
which agents and methods in the community are best positioned to communicate about air quality.
Furthermore, engaging interested community members, such as students, in the science of air quality
and data evaluation in conjunction with an expanded monitoring network could be implemented.
2021/22 efforts: Localized air quality monitoring data, real-time visibility camera images and air quality
alerts are available through www.fcgov.com/AQdata. With changes in technologies, and increased
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accessibility of low cost, high quality air quality monitors, the City is beginning to invest in additional air
quality monitors that increase areas represented. Near term efforts include further development and
promotion of and health impact summaries, and resources to protect from adverse
health impacts.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins Environmental Services Department
Support partners: Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Larimer County Public Health
and Environment
Impact and investment: Anticipated 2021 communication efforts are supported by the Environmental
Services Department ongoing budget. Current efforts will require a continuation of these resources,
while additional efforts, such as expanded monitoring, and outreach, may require additional resources
through grants or other funding opportunities. Funding for additional efforts would depend on scale and
scope, ranging from approximately $20K - $100K per year, depending on the number of monitors.
Estimated new investment could include:
Funds to procure, install, operate and maintain expanded low-cost particulate monitoring
network
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
Seek grant
funding, as
appropriate
Low Medium Medium
Next Move: Integrate climate resilience considerations into city strategic and
operational plans
Case study: The City of Austin adopted a Climate Resilience Action Plan to determine which City assets
and operations are vulnerable to climate-related disruptions and how to mitigate those impacts.
How it could look in Fort Collins: As one example, safety plans and operating procedures can be updated
to include climate related risks and the actions that will be taken to protect staff and community
members in City buildings and programs.
2021/22 efforts: In the near term, a small group of staff from various City departments are convening to
develop a safety protocol on how to address poor indoor air quality in City buildings during smoke
events. This includes how to track complaints about smoke exposure, operational actions to reduce
smoke in buildings and actions staff can take to reduce their exposure and protect their health.
Additionally, staff will collaborate across City departments to ensure climate related impacts are
considered and included as community plans are created and/or updated. A forthcoming update to the
Natural Areas Master Plan and water planning (contingent on budgetary funding) updates could have
opportunities to advance this strategy.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins Environmental Services Department
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Support partner: Fort Collins Utilities, Safety and Risk Management and Operation Services
Impact and investment: This work utilizes existing staff resources.
Estimated new investment could include the following and will be determined by planning process:
Funding for building upgrades, such as new ventilation systems
Additional analysis and modeling by consultants/content experts on a plan to plan basis.
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
Staff time Low Medium Medium
Big Move 4 - Convenient Transportation Choices : It is safe, easy, fast
and affordable to get around without a car.
We know that some places in Fort Collins feel safe and reasonable to get around in without a car, but
We also know that around 35,000 people commute to and from
Fort Collins for work on a daily basis, primarily from Loveland, Greeley, and Windsor. With this Big
Move, we imagine that getting to and from Fort Collins and traveling around the city will be a safe,
intuitive, and easy experience without a car, especially for those who choose to bike, walk, or use
t choice residents generally make because investments
in transit make it a fast and convenient choice, and investments in bicycling and walking infrastructure
make emissions-free choices the top pick in Fort Collins. Using a car will be generally a shared
experience, reducing dependence on car ownership while improving mobility and access for all
residents, especially older adults, historically marginalized groups, and residents living with disabilities.
Next Move: Expanding local and regional public transit coverage and frequency (per
the 2019 Transit Master Plan)
Case study: Local data suggests the biggest barrier to residents using transit more frequently include
frequency of service and transit route coverage. While services like Bus Rapid Transit are planned for
expansion in Fort Collins, other innovative approaches should also be explored. Current models such as
vanpool could serve as a case study to explore variable and flexible scheduling or service areas.
Increasing regional transit options from Loveland and Greeley could also help to reduce the number of
commuters driving alone.
How it could look in Fort Collins: Transit routes could be rerouted and consolidated in an effort to
increase frequency of certain routes particularly routes serving historically underrepresented groups. In
order to continue to reduce barriers to transit use, Fort Collins should begin exploring micro-transit
options and other innovative options that provide flexibility in coverage to meet real-time transit
rt use/additional
bus rapid transit (BRT) corridors In coordination with the North Front Range Metro. Planning
Organization, which already specializes in planning regional transit, more exploration could be done to
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Page 24 of 56
determine the best approach to reducing
vehicles.
2021/22 efforts: Planning for N. College BRT underway in 2021.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins FC Moves
Support partner: City of Fort Collins Transfort, CSU Parking & Transportation Services, North Front Range
Metropolitan Planning Organization
Impact and investment
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
2030
Cumulative
Community
Investment
2030
Annual
carbon
savings
(MT)
$1.6M Medium Medium Medium $191M 16,650
Next Move: Create mobility hubs to support convenient transportation connection
options
Case study: Mobility hubs seek to create seamless connection between transit and other modes of
transportation and will be strategically located where the transit network intersects other major
components of the transportation network, such as intersections with multiuse trails and near local
service providers or community amenities.
How it could look in Fort Collins: The Transportation Master Plan identifies several possible locations for
Mobility Hubs. One such location is the Transit Center at Colorado State University. This transit center
currently features high frequency transit and intersects on-campus bikeways and a robust pedestrian
network. A fully realized Mobility Hub would include bike and scooter share stations nearby, dedicated
parking spaces for EV charging and car share, a loading zone for ride share services, and other amenities
to secure and support multiple transportation modes.
2021/22 efforts: TBD
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins FC Moves
Support partner: City of Fort Collins Transfort, CSU Parking & Transportation Services, micromobility
companies, ride share and car share companies.
Impact and investment
Estimated annual city costs depends on funding and operational model
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Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
2030
Cumulative
Community
Investment
2030
Annual
carbon
savings
(MT)
No new
investment Medium Low High $42M 2,870
Next Move: Provide travel trainings program
Case study: Providing regular trainings in a variety of settings can allow residents to learn how to
integrate multiple modes of transportation, such as taking bicycles on transit, and could further provide
an opportunity for residents to learn how to be mobile using all available transportation choices.
How it could look in Fort Collins: Currently, Transfort and FC Moves provide a suite of travel training
classes, including transit Travel Training, bicycle-specific classes, and could evolve into another modal-
specific trainings or better target specific audience segments through marketing, curriculum
development, and training delivery methods (e.g. in-person, virtual, and at a variety of locations
throughout the city).
2021/2022 efforts: Ddevelop plans for audience segmentation and integrate a common marketing
approach, such as Shift Your Ride to existing trainings, and begin to expand offerings to include other
modes, such as e-scooters.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins FC Moves, Transfort
Support partner: CSU Parking & Transportation Services, micromobility companies
Impact and investment: This work utilizes existing staff and associated budgets
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
See description Low Medium Medium
Next Move: Continue to build bicycle facilities as identified in the Bicycle Master Plan
Case study: The best cities for bicycling in the world include a robust, interconnected system of
separated bicycle facilities where bicycle users rarely mix with vehicular traffic. Academic literature and
professionals world-wide suggest that best way to increase bicycle use for transportation purposes is to
provide separated bicycle facilities along corridors and at intersections.
How this could look in Fort Collins: Fort Collins has already piloted protected bike lanes, most notable on
Laurel Street and W. Mulberry Street. New construction also features grade-separated bicycle facilities,
such as Suniga Road, and current standards
Bicycle Master Plan and Transportation Master Plan outline plans for future separated bicycle facility
construction as well as spot improvements and retrofits to existing infrastructure to increase safety and
comfort.
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2021/2022 efforts: City Park Ave. and W. Elizabeth St. are currently being planned for redesign and
could include separated bicycle facilities as well as protected intersection design.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins FC Moves
Supporting partner: City of Fort Collins Traffic Operations, Streets, Planning; CSU Parking &
Transportation Services
Impact and investment: Community investments based on Bicycle Master Plan forecast from 2018.
Annual city investment includes $450k of ongoing operating budget.
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
2030
Cumulative
Community
Investment
2030
Annual
carbon
savings
(MT)
$700k Medium High High $33.9M 17,200
Big Move 5 - Live, Work, Play Nearby : No matter where they live,
everyone can meet their basic daily needs without driving across town
The way the City guides land use and development patterns plays an important role in each of our
transportation decisions. Many of us probably spend a lot of time in our cars, getting to work, taking kids
to after-school activities, and making sure we have food for the week. If housing is not close to where
we work, shop, or recreate, it forces us to take longer trips, usually by car. Often this also leads to more
congested roads and lots of space spent on parking lots. If we cut down on reason
have a little more time in the day, we may feel more connected to those
reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
within the City land use code that includes housing options and access to services for
people of all ages and abilities
Case study: Fort Collins currently has a Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Overlay Zone within the Land
Use Code. The purpose of this TOD zone is to encourage land uses, densities and design that enhance and
support transit stations along the transit corridors in particular the MAX Bus Rapid Transit Corridor.
Provisions allow for a mix of goods and services within convenient walking distance of transit stations to
foster development patterns that support live, work, play.
How it could look in Fort Collins: Expanding the TOD zone throughout the City (currently this zone is
geographically focused along the Mason Corridor) or adding similar zones that encourage these development
patterns would begin to encourage development patterns that support live, work, play. These concepts are
also identified with the 2019 City Plan and corresponding structure plan . Updating to the Land Use code
will be one of the key steps in implementing this vision.
2021/2022 efforts: City staff have begun to explore updates to the Land Use Code. Further action could
be to continue exploration and gear up efforts for Land Use Code updates as capacity and funding
became available.
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Lead Partner: City of Fort Collins Planning
Supporting partners: City of Fort Collins Zoning, Community Development and Neighborhood Services
Impact and investment
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
No new
investment Low High Medium
Next Move: Enhance partnerships with schools to ensure safe ways for kids to get to
school
The City of Fort Collins currently funds a robust Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program that aims to educate
8,000+ school-aged youth annually on safe walking and bicycling behaviors. Students who learn and engage
in safe walking and bicycling behaviors on a regular basis have been shown to have increased productivity
and engagement in school, suggesting a strong connection to physical activity and success in school.
Transportation to school by car also represents a significant factor in greenhouse gas emissions, especially
considering local School of Choice policies allowing community members to choose the school that fits their
s and
encourage a shift to active transportation to help reduce emissions.
Case study gram already excels at encouraging 8,000+ school-aged
youth to increase rates of walking and bicycling to school. SRTS also coordinates Walking/Bicycling School
Buses, or groups of students who are chaperoned to and from school in a group by walking or bicycling.
Enhanced partnerships could lead to more Walking/Bicycling School Buses, increased reach within existing
frameworks, and expand coordination with Middle and High Schools.
How it could look in Fort Collins: Using existing SRTS engagement models though physical and wellness
education classes, the City and partners could expand frequency of in-school education at elementary schools
and middle schools and enhance engagement at high schools through the Bicycle Ambassador Program.
Partnerships could also identify opportunities to bring SRTS curriculum to parents and youth identified as at
risk. Partnerships could also aim to introduce safe driving curricula to high school students to augment
2021/2022 efforts: SRTS regular School rotation schedule already identifies 1/3 of elementary schools to host
education through regular PE classes, in addition to targeting every middle school and high school once per
year. Efforts are underway to enhance High School Bicycle Ambassador Programs and bicycling clubs in high
schools.
Lead Partner: Safe Routes to School, FC Moves
Supporting partner: Transfort, Bike Fort Collins, Poudre School District, individual school principals
Impact and investment
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Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
Pending
assessments Low Medium Low
Big Move 6 - Efficient, Emissions Free Buildings : Everyone lives and
works in healthy energy and water efficient buildings which transition
to become emissions free.
Our buildings and homes represent the physical fabric of our community and are the places where we
connect with family, friends and colleagues. We spend up to 90% of our time indoors, mostly at home
and at work. As we move toward a low-carbon future, the condition of our homes and businesses will
impact all of us on a daily basis. Changing our buildings, and our habits in them, may positively impact
our lives more than any other actions.
provide for heating, cooling, lighting, cooking, entertainment, business and manufacturing. They also
contribute to the physical and financial health of community members that occupy them. The
investments in improving building performance create jobs, improve indoor air quality and health and
enable hard-earned dollars to go towards other family needs and not utility bills.
Efficient, Emissions Free Buildings means working to improve efficiency in all existing buildings and new
construction of single family homes, multifamily homes and commercial buildings to:
Improve building efficiency to save resources and improve indoor air quality;
Change our habits for conservation and becoming active participants in the future energy
system;
Transition away from the use of natural gas and other fuels (electrification) for heating and
cooking while improving electric system flexibility, and
Engage local manufacturing partners to reduce industrial process emissions.
Next Move: Continue and expand homes and business efficiency programs
Case study: One of the most cost-effective ways to reduce energy use in existing homes and businesses
is to provide rebates and other incentives to support building upgrades. Utility sponsored rebate
programs across the country support local contractors, energy consultants, and other trade partners,
resulting in a boost to the local economy and result in lowered utility bills for customers.
How it could look in Fort Collins: Fort Collins Utilities has existing water and energy efficiency programs
for homes and businesses. This next move would enable Utilities to expand the range of rebates to
customers and increase outreach to areas of the community that haven't typically participated in
programs. Strategies to increase participation in programs might include investment in workforce
training for energy upgrades, increased engagement with local organizations that offer services
specifically to income qualified communities, and enhanced marketing efforts to increase awareness
DRAFT Our Climate Future Two-year Tactical Plan (2021-2022)
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and improve the customer journey. The portfolio of programs work together to meet various segments,
such as how the Building Energy and Water Scoring (BEWS) program links to business efficiency
incentives.
2021/22 efforts: Utilities staff recently joined the initiative to participate in the American Council for an
Energy Efficiency Economy (ACEEE) Leading with Equity working group, which will focus on increased
transparency to organizations success in engaging underrepresented groups. Utilities staff also intends
to review community and program data to improve the existing delivery strategies to eliminate barriers
for participation for all community members. Recognizing the linkages between efficiency programs,
electrification and grid flexibility, incentives will also be reviewed from the perspective of optimizing
results across these outcomes. The proposed funding levels are consistent with current budgets for
Energy Services in Utilities. Funding may move within the portfolio to achieve optimal results.
Lead partner: Fort Collins Utilities
Support partner(s): Platte River Power Authority (Efficiency Works), participating contractor networks,
real estate trade ally network, local and national energy organizations and consultants.
Impact and investment
Annual benefits only consider utility cost savings. Additional non-energy benefits are not
quantified.
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
2030
Cumulative
Community
Investment
2030
Annual
carbon
savings
(MT)
$30M High Medium High $155M 267,000
Next Move: Develop an energy performance path for new construction to zero carbon
building by 2030
Case study: Building energy codes establish minimum construction or major renovation requirements
that enable buildings to use energy more efficiently and are reported as the most significant and
impactful step cities can take to meet emissions targets. Cities across the country and in other parts of
the world are establishing clear, long term plans for advancing minimum energy codes to achieve
significant reduction in local emissions and building owners money on utility bills for the lifetime of the
building.
How it could look in Fort Collins: Fort Collins remains current by adopting and enforcing the current
International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) within one year of issuance, and often amends code
sections to align with community goals. Coupling adoption of the IECC with complimentary International
codes and the National Fire Protection Associations National Electrical Code ensures the city is utilizing
the most up to date codes and technology available within the built environment. Colorado, being a
home rule state, allows municipalities to independently amend and adopt codes. With input from the
building community, local stakeholder groups and consultants the city will develop a long term plan to
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achieve emissions free new construction and alterations that will help set clear expectations for builders
and developers. The modeling for this Next Move assumes adoption of IECC 2021 for both residential
and commercial buildings, moving toward net zero carbon building code in 2030. Financial investments
are calculated for years 2025 through 2030, with benefits accruing through 2050.
2021/22 efforts: The building department, with support from Utilities, will convene a stakeholder code
review committee in 2021 to review the 2021 international codes with local amendments prior to
Council consideration, with a likely effective date in the first quarter of 2022. The creation of revised
Metro District standards is also being considered in 2021 and will propose above-code energy and water
efficiency requirements to receive approval as a Metro District. A stakeholder group will be convened to
initiate the development of a long term plan for building codes, and to explore the role of natural gas for
space and water heating in a clean energy future.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins Building Department
Support partners: Fort Collins Utilities Energy Services, Urban Land Institute, US Green Building Council,
National Home Builders Association, Institute for the Built Environment (CSU), Northern Colorado
Renewable Energy Society, Southwest Energy Efficiency Partnership, local building industry
Impact and investment
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
2030
Cumulative
Community
Investment
2030
Annual
carbon
savings
(MT)
No new
investment Medium Low Medium $1.8M 4,900
Next Move: Expand programs for electrification of space and water heating
Case study: Electrification, or the process of heating using electricity instead of natural gas, will be a
transformational step in how the community uses energy in homes and buildings. Fort Collins has been
collaborating with Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) as they are a national leader in the
development and implementation of programs for electrification.
How it could look in Fort Collins: Fort Collins already has a comprehensive single family home efficiency
program with Epic Homes. Epic Homes currently supports a wide range of efficiency improvements,
including those for space heating, water heating and air conditioning. These types of retrofits will need
to quickly evolve towards high efficiency electric heat pumps. While these measures are already in
place, they will need a boost from education and training of homeowners and contractors, as well as
adjustments to rebates.
2021/22 efforts: Fort Collins Utilities is currently working on a project which will form the foundation of
future electrification offerings. The project includes efforts to review current electrification programs,
engage with contractors and customer to understand their perspective on the electrification market,
create a Utilities specific electrification cost effectiveness framework, develop cost effectiveness inputs,
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scenarios, and analysis and propose changes to program offerings and incentives to support
electrification.
Fort Collins Utilities is also working with Platte River Power Authority and the other member cities on a
distributed energy resources strategic framework which will include electrification.
Lead partner: Fort Collins Utilities
Support partner(s): Platte River Power Authority, Apex Analytics, local contractors
Impact and investment
The 2030 cumulative community cost is modeled on a gradual transition to all furnace and
water heater replacement going to efficient electric sources by 2025
2021/22 Utility costs included in existing budget
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
2030
Cumulative
Community
Investment
2030
Annual
carbon
savings
(MT)
See description Medium Low Low $20.3M 31,000
Next Move: Continue and expand demand response and grid flexibility programs
Case study: Fort Collins is already a leading utility with various options within demand response
programs. Demand response programs have traditionally been focused on demand reduction and/or
ocused on grid flexibility strategies such as increased energy
use at times of surplus renewable energy.
How it could look in Fort Collins: Fort Collins Peak Partners program currently includes various types of
thermostats, hot water heater controllers and the ability to communicate with businesses through
standard communication protocols. Moving forward, the program is demonstrating grid-integrated
water heaters which can both store energy and reduce energy use. Future integrations will include both
stationary batteries and electric vehicles as well as new standardized industry communication protocols.
The system has also started to leverage fiber communications through Connexion, both at customer
sites and eventually in the electric distribution system as well. Peak Partners provides support to both
homes and businesses to more easily manage their usage in response to dynamic pricing, such as time of
day.
2021/22 efforts: Peak Partners is embarking on a planned capital project to upgrade existing hot water
heater controllers over this two year period. A grid interactive water heater pilot will as will ongoing
optimization of other program elements. Fort Collins Utilities is also working with Platte River Power
Authority and the other member cities on a distributed energy resources strategic framework which will
include demand response.
Lead partner: Fort Collins Utilities
Support partner: Itron, Platte River Power Authority
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Impact and investment
Ongoing budget is approximately $1M for 2021 and 2022 with a gradual increase expected
through 2030
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
See description Enabling Low Medium
Next Move: Provide focused energy efficiency and indoor air quality incentives for
historically underserved households
Case study: The Energy Advice Points are a Barcelona City Council service that offers the necessary
information, assistance and intervention for people to meet basic standards to avoid energy poverty
https://energy-cities.eu/best-practice/fighting-energy-poverty/
How it could look in Fort Collins: Energy efficiency and linked indoor air quality programs will evolve to
better meet the needs of historically underserved households, such as low and moderate income and
BIPOC residents, rental properties and mobile homes. Initiatives can leverage the principles of targeted
universalism to design programs which address the most persistent barriers for underserved households
and therefore serve all households more effectively.
2021/22 efforts: This Next Move is expected to first focus on specifically identifying segments of Fort
Collins who are burdened with high energy costs and community partners who may be able to help
reach underserved households and neighborhoods. The next steps will be to use energy cost burden
data to focus services which improve efficiency and reduce the cost burden. The analysis assumes there
is no direct savings from this service and the savings are included in additional participation in other
Next Moves. Existing programs such as Epic Homes, CARE, Larimer County Energy Program and state
weatherization will all play a role in improving services.
Lead partner: Fort Collins Utilities
Support partner: City of Fort Collins Social Sustainability Department, Platte River Power Authority,
Energy Outreach Colorado
Impact and investment
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
Staff time Enabling High Medium
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Next Move: Support Incentives and Regulations to Reduce Industrial Air Pollution
How it could look in Fort Collins: Fort Collins is home to a small number of large industrial greenhouse
These gas emissions come from electricity for buildings and industrial processes, fossil fuel combustion
to generate heat and in some case special gases used for industrial purposes. One example of the last
category are fluorinated gasses that contribute are reported as Industrial Process and Produce Use
Emissions (IPPU).
Fort Collins Utilities and Platte River Power Authority have incentive programs to support industrial
businesses in increasing efficiency or renewable energy that can address electricity-related emissions.
And as more companies make commitments to reduce their carbon footprint, industrial corporations
are also responding to demands for improvements in supply chain carbon footprint.
Fort Collins has one industrial source, Broadcom, that reports IPPU emissions. Other IPPU emission
sources may exist in Fort Collins but fall below the current EPA reporting threshold. In 2019, IPPU
emissions contributed 9% of Fort Collins total community GHG inventory. Locally, Broadcom has been
installing abatement devices of their own volition to mitigate IPPU emissions since 2011 and
is committed to continuing to install them.
Leadership program and commits annually to various environmentally driven projects.
2021/22 efforts: In 2021, Broadcom is working with Colorado Department of Public Health and
Environment, as one of many stakeholders, as they develop plans to implement HB1261 to address GHG
emissions at the state level. This rule-making is anticipated to require large emitting facilities to conduct
a third party audit of their emissions and to assess the use of GHG Best Available Control Technology.
While large industrial emissions are not typically addressed at the local level, Fort Collins staff is
committed to meeting periodically with Broadcom. In addition, City staff will follow up with the few
other communities who have large sources of IPPU emissions in their communities to see if there are
new ways that other local governments have supported these larger sources in reducing emissions.
Fort Collins is also a member of Colorado Communities for Climate Action (CC4CA.) CC4CA works to
advance state legislation and rule-making to reduce GHG emissions based on a policy agenda approved
annually by all member communities.
Lead partners: Fort Collins Utilities, Environmental Services Department
Support partner(s): Economic Health Office, local industrial partners
Impact and cost
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
2030
Cumulative
Community
Investment
2030
Annual
carbon
savings
(MT)
No new
investment Medium Low Low Pending 20,500
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Big Move 7 - Healthy Affordable Housing : Everyone has healthy stable
housing they can afford
This Big Move is critical because today not all community members have affordable, safe, and healthy
places to live. Nearly 20% of homeowners and 60% of renters in Fort Collins cannot afford their monthly
housing costs. We also know that while all community members are impacted by the rising house prices,
our BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) as well as low-income residents are
disproportionately impacted by these costs. Because so many community members have to choose to
live out of town, they end up commuting into Fort Collins which impacts our greenhouse gas
emissions. Having a stable housing situation positively contrib o respond and
recover from a disruptive event and their capacity to engage with topics like climate change and
reducing emissions. While healthy, affordable housing is not traditionally linked to climate, energy, and
waste, these are critical considerations for our community to provide stability to get us to our goals. This
Achievable Housing Strategies
Next Move: Increase the number and diversity of housing types and allow more
homes per lot (d and Use Code
Case study: Communities throughout the United States are modernizing their Land Use Codes to align
with current best practices and community demand. Examples include Colorado Springs, Loveland,
Denver, Portland, and many more.
How it could look in Fort Collins: Today, Fort Collins daily population grows by almost 28% from
commuters traveling into and out of Fort Collins, representing almost 13% of our emissions. By creating
more housing opportunities either in our existing housing or in the land we have left, we can reduce
transportation emissions and create more walkable, livable communities. As noted in the 2020 Land Use
Code (LUC) Audit, barriers to fully realizing allowed densities include multifamily unit number
maximums, square footage thresholds for secondary or non-residential buildings, and height limitations
that restrict the ability to maximize compact sites using tuck-under parking. Such requirements should
be recalibrated or removed entirely.
2021/22 efforts: A first step to pursue this involves seeking off-cycle funding for phase one of the LUC
audit, which will be considered for Second Reading on March 2, 2021. Beginning the LUC update is an
important step to advancing several strategies included in the draft Housing Strategic Plan that will also
address new housing types, recalibrate of incentives for affordable housing, and simplify the
development process. City staff will lead this effort, supported by outside consultants to help balance
daily work assignments with the demands of this complex update to the LUC regulations. This strategy is
also included in the draft Housing Strategic Plan.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins Community Development and Neighborhood Services Department
Support partner: Builders/Developers, Special Districts and Government Entities, other partners
Impact and investment
First phase of the Land Use Code update for housing-related changes
$290K fro dered on February 16 for First Reading
$60K matched from Home2Health grant funding
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Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
$350,000 Medium Medium Low
Next Move: Continue the Housing First model for supporting persons experiencing
homelessness and provide wraparound services
Case study: Homeward 2020 has employed this model since its founding.
How it could look in Fort Collins: Acco a successful homelessness response
system is a coordinated, regional response centered in the principles and practices of Housing First and
Supportive Housing. The system is data and performance driven and strives to achieve Functional Zero:
where homelessness is prevented whenever possible, and if it is experienced, there is a supported
This strategy is also included in the draft Housing Strategic Plan
(as a continuation of the prior Affordable Housing Strategic Plan).
2021/22 efforts: Continue partnership with the Northern Colorado Continuum of Care, which
coordinates funding and delivery of housing and services for people experiencing homelessness in
Northern Colorado, bringing together agencies in Larimer and Weld Counties to develop a strategic,
regional approach to homelessness.
Lead partner: Northern Colorado Continuum of Care
Support partner: City of Fort Collins, Homelessness Service Providers, Builders/Developers, Larimer
County, Other Partners
Impact and investment: New City investment in 2021 to create a staff position entitled Homelessness
response and Solutions Lead Specialist; future investments pending additional analysis
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
See description Low High Medium
Next Move: Expand foreclosure and eviction prevention and legal representation,
especially in times of crisis
How it could look in Fort Collins: Housing counseling generally takes the form of providing assistance
with mortgage debt restructuring and mortgage and/or utilities payments to avoid foreclosure; short-
term emergency rent and utilities assistance for renters. Cities often partner with local nonprofits
experienced in foreclosure counseling. Landlord-tenant mediation is similar but generally conducted by
local Legal Aid for more involved disputes between the landlord and tenant. CARES Act funding is
currently dedicated to a legal defense fund for renters, but additional resources are necessary to carry
this strategy beyond the duration that CARES resources allow. This is a High impact, best practice
strategy that leverages success of existing program; addresses acute needs exacerbated by the ongoing
COVID-19 pandemic (and related levels of unemployment). This strategy is also included in the draft
Housing Strategic Plan.
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2021/22 efforts: Seek additional funding to continue this work beyond 2020
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins Community Development and Neighborhood Services & Social
Sustainability Departments
Support partner: Manufactured Housing Neighborhoods, Homeowners, Renters
Impact and investment
Promoting housing stability through eviction prevention educational materials, training
sessions, legal advice clinics for tenants and landlords, and legal representation in eviction
court hearings ($125,000 annually, funded in 2020 via CARES resources).
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
$250,000 Low Medium Medium
Next Move: ccupancy policy (U+2) to determine
achieving stability, health, and affordability citywide
How it could look in Fort Collins: Occupancy limits and narrow family definitions often create
unintended constraints on housing choice and options, including cooperative housing opportunities for
seniors and people with disabilities or low-income renters desiring to live with unrelated adults in
a single family home setting. Occupancy limits can also pose fair housing liabilities to the extent that
they have a disparate impact on people with disabilities. Current best practices allow up to 8 unrelated
or base occupancy on building code requirements instead of family definitions. Occupancy limits do not
always have a direct relationship to neighborhood livability, and there may be a better way to address
livability concerns. This strategy is also included in the draft Housing Strategic Plan.
2021/22 efforts: Form an internal task force to develop a proposal for policy and community
engagement.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins Community Development and Neighborhood Services Department
Support partner(s): Numerous City Departments, Community, Homeowners, Renters
Impact and investment:
This work utilizes existing staff in multiple departments
Estimated new investment for administration and community costs for potential registration
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Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
Pending
implementation
of the Housing
Strategic Plan
Low High Medium
Big Move 8 - Local, Affordable and Healthy Food : Everyone has access
to healthy and affordable food, sourced or rescued from local and
regional producers.
Like housing, food is an essential component of each of our lives, which is why it
Climate Future. A sustainable, local food system can have broad reaching and positive impacts ranging
from improved soil, water, and ecosystem health to providing a healthy and reliable food source for all
members of our community. Nearly 40,000 residents in Larimer County are considered food insecure,
while one third of school-aged children receive free or reduced meals. Through innovative partnerships,
all community members can have increased access to healthy, fresh foods grown and raised close to
home. Affordable, accessible local food will require support across the food system decreasing barriers
for farmers to establish and expand their efforts, while building an efficient and effective system for
affordably distributing this food to the community.
To truly be successful, this Big Move will require deep and sustained partnerships between
governmental entities, nonprofits, and private enterprises. The City as an organization has had limited
focus on our food systems, but there are many leaders in this space in Fort Collins, and as a community,
we can begin to shift our food systems to be more focused on local, affordable, and healthy food
options.
Next Move: Promote local food through education
How it could look in Fort Collins: By establishing and leveraging strong partnerships, Fort Collins
community members would be better informed about the benefits of eating locally grown and raised
food. They are aware of local food sources and resources available to help secure local foods and grow
their own food.
2021/22 efforts: City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department will be working to highlight the benefits
of integrating conservation agriculture into its suite of land management practices. A conservation
agriculture webpage will describe the practice and Natural Areas partnerships with Poudre Valley
Community Farms and their member farmers. Additionally, Natural Areas will be partnering with Poudre
River Public Library District to host a community education offering in late Summer 2021. Finally, the
Gardens on Spring Creek offers a diverse catalog of courses to support home gardeners looking to
increase their knowledge about growing fruits and vegetables, as well as integrating sustainable
practices into their gardening efforts.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins Natural Areas and Gardens on Spring Creek
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Support partner: Community partnerships need to be cultivated and may include government agencies
such as Larimer County and CSU Cooperative Extension, as well as numerous regional non-profit
organizations working in this space.
Impact and investment: This work utilizes existing staff and associated budgets in multiple departments.
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
Staff time Medium High Medium
Big Move 9 - Healthy Local Economy and Jobs . The community
supports a healthy innovative local economy with new opportunities
for all people and businesses to thrive.
Supporting the creation of jobs and a healthy economy is something our community has been co-
creating for decades. Along with hundreds of businesses, both local and international, and the
connections with Colorado State University and the City of Fort Collins, our local diverse economy has
become known as a place of innovation. As climate change increasingly impacts our community, the Our
Climate Future initiative supports the continued opportunity which comes from ongoing and new
investment in community solutions. Opportunities such as job training and development in renewable
energy, energy efficiency, and transformation of waste into resources; opportunities to incentivize and
educate businesses to shift to more sustainable operations that can save them time and money while
positioning them to be successful in a world that increasingly favors sustainable business.
Next Move: Update the Economic Health Strategic Plan to adapt to rapidly changing
economic conditions
Case Study:
world have undergone significant changes since the last plan was adopted unanimously by Council. An
rapidly changing economic conditions, specifically the COVID-19 pandemic and accelerating climate
change.
How it could look in Fort Collins: Fort Collins and Northern Colorado have changed significantly since
2015 and the economic forces affecting Fort Collins businesses are different. For example, the laborshed
has continued to grow with a significant amount of the labor working in Fort Collins on a daily basis
coming from outside the community. As people are increasingly moving outside Fort Collins to find
affordable housing and then driving into Fort Collins for work (as noted the Healthy Affordable Housing
Big Move, Fort Collins daily population grows by 28%), the importance of high paying jobs and
affordable living become crucial to reducing transportation emissions from commuting. Additionally, the
economic crisis brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic will necessitate both an economic and social
recovery. Developing a plan for this recovery could form the
broader economic strategy. With a continued focus on innovation in the face of the economy broadly
recognizing climate risks, this plan update aligns with many Our Climate Future Big Moves.
DRAFT Our Climate Future Two-year Tactical Plan (2021-2022)
Page 39 of 56
2021/22 efforts: The Economic Health Office would partner with the community to update the Economic
Health Strategic Plan building upon the work completed as p
called
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins Economic Health Office
Support partner: Northern Colorado Regional Economic Development Initiative (NoCo REDI), Larimer
County Economic and Workforce Development (LCWED), Larimer County Small Business Development
Center, Innosphere, Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce, and many others.
Impact and investment: The plan update would depend upon funding which will be determined later in
2021
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
See description Enabling Medium Medium
Next Move: Support small businesses and workforce development in times of crisis
Case study: The COVID-19 crisis has reinforced the importance of Main Street businesses (locally owned,
serving the community, and typically employing community members). Developing systems to support
these businesses and the associated workforce during both crisis and good times should be an essential
have given the City an opportunity to support hundreds of local businesses. This work will need to
continue as rebuilding the economy will likely take longer than reopening our society post COVID-19
pandemic.
How it could look in Fort Collins: Leveraging Federal, State, and even local dollars the City should
continue to develop programs like the Small Business Assistance Program, Small Business Relief
Program, Restaurant Training Program, De-escalation Training, and numerous others to support Main
Street business. Additionally, outreach should continue to inform businesses about changing public
health orders and operational considerations through activities like NoCoRecovers, For Fort Collins,
and Keep NoCo Open. These resources should be made available in both English and Spanish with added
support for outreach to traditionally underserved businesses.
2021/22 efforts: Continue to leverage funding when available to develop specific programs targeted at
supporting both small businesses and workforce development (will depend on Federal and State funds).
Continue to communicate changes in public health orders to businesses and promote shopping local and
supporting local businesses through outreach and marketing.
Lead partners: City of Fort Collins Economic Health Office (locally), Northern Colorado Regional
Economic Development Initiative, Larimer County Economic and Workforce Development (regionally)
Support partner: Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce, Upstate Colorado, Larimer County Small
Business Development Center, Colorado State Minority Owned Business Office
Impact and investment: Investment will depend on Federal and State funds
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Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
See description Enabling Medium High
Next Move: Support small businesses and workforce development in times of stability
Case study: Ensuring that small businesses remain vibrant, resilient and strong through coordination of
technical support, funding, education, and policy initiatives is essential for our local economic health.
The City has learned a lot about the needs of small Main Street businesses during the COVID-19
pandemic response. These learnings should be leveraged to develop specific programs (supported with
funding and resources) to help small business flourish within Fort Collins. These programs should be
identified and refined as part of an update to the Economic Health Strategic Plan. Small business support
is also an identified Council priority.
How it could look in Fort Collins: The biggest challenges that small businesses face are (a) evaluating and
understanding their financial information, (b) keeping current with operational requirements, (c)
identifying and implementing cost savings measures, and (d) building lasting and effective relationships
with banking partners. Fort Collins working with its partners should identify and implement programs
that address these business pain points. These programs could include: technical assistance, training,
software licenses, relationship building, and mentoring and peer learning.
2021/22 efforts: Continue to sponsor the Larimer SBDC and participate in program development with
LCEWD. Develop and request funding for additional programs aimed at meeting the challenges
identified during the crisis.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins Economic Health Office, Larimer Small Business Development Center,
Larimer County Economic and Workforce Development
Support partner: Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Business Association, North Fort
Collins Business Association, Midtown Business Improvement District
Impact and investment: Funding is currently included in 2021 Economic Health Office and community
partner budgets
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
See description Enabling Medium Medium
Next Move: Reimagine a sustainable business program
Case study: ClimateWise has been a successful business recognition program for sustainability for 20
years in Fort Collins and there are numerous business recognition programs across Colorado and the
United States with measurable success. Now that ClimateWise has ended as a Fort Collins program it is
time to imagine a new business sustainability program that is adapted to a changing environment and
uses industry benchmarks to measure success.
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How it could look in Fort Collins: A new iteration of a sustainable business recognition program needs to
adapt to an evolving business climate to educate, incentivize, and support businesses becoming more
financially resilient and environmentally sustainable. Businesses and nonprofits in Fort Collins need to
support and lead each other to become more resilient and sustainable while also being incentivized and
supported by the City. The design of the new program should include input from the business
community or be designed by the business community.
2021/22 efforts: In 2021, Staff will partner with the Sustainable Living Association, a local nonprofit
focused on sustainability in Fort Collins, and local businesses and nonprofits to envision a new
sustainable recognition program that is adapted to the current business climate.
Lead partner: Sustainable Living Association
Support partner: Fort Collins Utilities Customer Accounts, Environmental Services Department
Impact and investment: Funding will depend upon the planning and assessment for a new model.
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
See description Enabling Low Medium
Next Move: Explore opportunities and best practices for multilingual business and
workforce development programs
How it could look in Fort Collins: Engage businesses and community members who have historically
been underserved by multilingual business and workforce development programs to learn what
opportunities and best practices there might be for designing more linguistically accessible and
culturally relevant business support and job training. Through partnerships with local and state agencies
and leveraging one-time money available due to the COVID-19 crisis, pilot a number of programs aimed
at supporting underserved populations. Based on the success of these pilot programs present the most
successful programs for ongoing funding to the City, County and partners.
2021/22 efforts: Leverage the 1-year contractual Opportunity Specialist in the Economic Health Office
to provide boots on the ground outreach and technical support to underserved populations, while
simultaneously identifying pilot programs that could be developed and tested for future ongoing
multilingual business support and workforce development programming.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins Economic Health Office
Support partner: Larimer County Economic and Workforce Development
Impact and investment: Funding is currently included in 2021 Economic Health Office budget and is
short-term at this time.
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Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
See description Enabling Medium Medium
Big Move 10 - Zero Waste Economy . Business, industry, institutions,
and government collaborate to recirculate resources and eliminate
waste.
economy is about rethinking the materials used in processes,
products and projects so they are used thoughtfully, are long-lasting, and have somewhere to go when
they are no longer needed. Every year Fort Collins landfills over 200,000 tons of materials like asphalt,
concrete, wood, soil, and other materials from industrial activities. When these materials can be
recycled or used by another local or regional business, companies save money and avoid using new
materials, and by closing loops closer to home, businesses can increase resilience to supply chain
disruptions.
Next Move: Support work on a digital marketplace for industrial waste
Case study: The City of Rotterdam has implemented a digital marketplace that connects companies that
can use the outputs of one industry as inputs to another.
How it could look in Fort Collins: Recycle Colorado, a statewide organization, has been working to
develop ReCircle, a statewide digital marketplace for trading materials to increase the communication
between all parts of the manufacturing, waste, and recycling industry. Currently, the platform allows
users to search, buy, sell, or donate available or wanted materials. Recircle partners include a variety of
large industries, recyclers, and waste management companies active in the State.
2021/22 efforts:
allows and will share the opportunity with partners in Fort Collins who may be interested in using the
platform.
Lead partner: Recycle Colorado
Support partner: City of Fort Collins Environmental Services Department
Impact and investment
Impact and investment: This Next Move is funded by Recycle Colorado. Fort Collins pays a small
membership fee of $350/year.
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
See description Low Low Low
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Next Move: Expand municipal soil recycling or reuse
How it could look in Fort Collins: The City of Fort Collins already has systems in place to sort and reuse
much of the substantial amounts of soil generated from City operations. This strategy would seek to
expand these systems, helping reduce unnecessary transportation and making sure soil can be used
circularly instead of landfilled or downgraded to material used to cover trash at the landfill (known as
2021/22 efforts: A study was done in 2019 to help understand the best opportunities to support and
expand existing systems. This Next Move would work toward implementing some of those
recommendations, including exploring systems to equitably distribute excess soil to interested
community members and integrate soil need or generation as part of the capital projects planning
system. City Waste Reduction and Recycling staff will work in a convening role to support implementing
strategies in 2022 in collaboration with other City departments.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins departments
Support partner: None, the primary generator of this material is the City
Impact and investment: This Next Move would likely involve primarily staff time in the 2021/22
timeframe.
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
See description Enabling Low Low
Big Move 11 - Healthy Natural Spaces: We all are stewards of healthy
natural spaces and honor the deep and historical human connection to
this land
Fort Collins is loved for its natural spaces. Spending time outside has numerous physical and mental
health benefits for residents. In addition to human wellness, conserved lands at the local level can
support diversity of life by connecting biological corridors that would otherwise be disconnected by
urban development. To maintain and enhance this vital part of the city, it is important to make sure
that,
healthy landscapes and implementing nature-based solutions to address a changing environment. By
nurturing diverse ecosystems that range in size from front yards to large spans of open space, every
member of the Fort Collins community can easily experience nature where they live, work, and play,
while supporting the wildlife that also call this region home.
Next Move: Protect and expand natural habitats as growth occurs
How it could look in Fort Collins: A connected open space network made up of both publicly conserved
lands and smaller patches of privately owned habitat, can ensure natural spaces are accessible to the
entire community. These natural habitats support healthy environments where plants and wildlife
thrive, while facilitating opportunities for people to engage with nature in a meaningful way.
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2021/22 efforts: Many City departments support this area of work on an ongoing basis. The Natural
Areas Department continues to actively conserve and enhance habitat for plants and wildlife. Utilities
pursues green infrastructure opportunities to manage stormwater and supports turf to native grass
conversion efforts. Programs such as Nature in the City and the Xeriscape Incentive Program support
community-driven efforts on smaller scales, as well.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins Natural Areas, City of Fort Collins Parks Planning and Development, City
of Fort Collins Utilities
Support partner: Residential and commercial properties owners, managers, renters, including interested
community members and HOAs.
Impact and investment
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
Staff time Enabling Low Medium
Next Move: Pursue habitat protections in the case of oil and gas development within
natural areas and/or in close proximity to natural habitat features
How it could look in Fort Collins: Per State statute, local regulations must match or exceed Colorado Oil
and Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC) requirements to ensure the protection of public health,
safety, welfare, the environment, and wildlife resources. The City could adopt more protective
standards through a combination of setback distances, zoning regulations and design standards. These
regulations will influence where and how new oil and gas development could occur within the
community, providing greater protection for humans, wildlife, and natural resources.
2021/22 efforts: Building on broad community engagement, the City of Fort Collins will make progress
toward updating regulations to oil and gas development within City limits. The City will explore
regulatory options and seek public input. Additionally, for city-owned properties outside City Limits,
staff will work with L
encourage the strongest possible protections for natural areas and habitats.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins Community Development and Neighborhood Services, City of Fort
Collins Environmental Services, Larimer County Planning
Support partner: City of Fort Collins Natural Areas, Larimer County Natural Resources
Impact and investment
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
Staff time Enabling Low Low
DRAFT Our Climate Future Two-year Tactical Plan (2021-2022)
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Next Move: Explore partnerships for habitat management and education for wildfire
mitigation
How it could look in Fort Collins: With the largest wildfires in Colorado history fresh in our minds from
2020 and the recent memories of other fires and floods, it is clear that issues related to watershed
wildfire recovery will be a priority in the coming years. These efforts will also need to be aligned with
water quality and potential water restrictions.
2021/22 efforts: Fire recovery at Bobcat Ridge Natural Area is a top restoration priority for the Natural
Areas Department. Goals will include habitat management for continued fire resilience, as well as
integrating education and resources into the visitor experience, focusing on the role of wildfire in
ecosystem management. Late summer 2021 is the goal date for reopening the site to the public.
Utilities is coordinating with a wide range of partners for broad-based watershed recovery including an
intergovernmental agreement with Greeley, Larimer County and others. Emergency watershed
stabilization methods will be focused on aerial mulching and erosion control techniques, particularly in
areas of moderate to severe burn severity. Utilities Water Production Division have been developing
costs associated with changes to operations and maintenance from post-fire water supply and water
quality impacts, and a team from Customer Connections is working on communications, social media,
education and outreach to begin planning for 2021
Lead partners: Fort Collins Utilities, City of Fort Collins Natural Areas
Support partners: City of Greeley, Larimer County, State and Federal agencies
Impact and investment
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
See description Enabling Medium High
Next Move: Explore opportunities for the City to recognize historical BIPOC
connections to the land, especially indigenous connections, and explore ways to
support BIPOC-led efforts around land
How it could look in Fort Collins: BIPOC Partners and City staff could explore opportunities to recognize
BIPOC connections to the land and ways to support BIPOC-led efforts around land by:
making space for more dialogue with existing and new BIPOC partners
listening to understand BIPOC priorities related to land
building trust through initial implementation opportunities to partner around land (for
example supporting efforts around indigenous farming and gardening practices that are
possible to support immediately)
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Page 46 of 56
thinking creatively together about non-traditional approaches to meeting priorities (for
example through third-party funding)
Finally, part of the exploration will be monitoring when conditions are right (budget, community
capacity, organizational capacity, etc.)
2021/22 efforts: City staff will increase internal coordination around these issues, continue current
discussions with BIPOC partners and leaders who are interested in conversations about historical BIPOC
connections to the land as described above, and explore new relationships as community trust allows.
Lead partner: Local indigenous and native partners, City of Fort Collins
Support partner: (Seeking Partners)
Impact and investment
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
Staff time Enabling High Medium
Big Move 12 - 100% Renewable Electricity. Everyone in the community
receives affordable and reliable 100% renewable electricity, including
from local sources.
Electricity powers our lives, local economy, homes and businesses. Electricity also comprises 50% of
current community carbon emissions. Fort Collins has traditionally been served by coal power plants and
long-established hydro-electric sources. Fort Collins Utilities is a municipally-owned electric utility and a
member-owner of the four-city Platte River Power Authority, giving us substantial influence and control
over electricity supply options. Currently, non-fossil resources account for over 50% of our electricity
sources, resulting in a sharp decrease in emissions from previous years.
In October 2018, City Council adopted a goal of 100% Renewable Electricity by 2030. Months later,
Platte River Power Authority adopted a Resource Diversification Policy which includes a target of 100%
non-carbon resources by 2030.
Looking out towards 2030 electricity emissions, Platte River has announced a new 150-megawatt solar
project to be online by 2024, that Rawhide Unit 1 coal generator will be closed by 2030 and their
Integrated Resources Plan calls for 90% non-carbon sources by 2030. Since electricity makes up about
mmunity inventory, these commitments will have an immense contribution
towards reducing emissions.
The 100% renewable electricity big move means:
Working with Platte River to increase utility scale renewable electricity sources;
Continuing to expand the capacity of local solar and battery storage, and
DRAFT Our Climate Future Two-year Tactical Plan (2021-2022)
Page 47 of 56
Deploying new capabilities and strategies to support variable renewable energy resources
with responsive homes, businesses and electric vehicles.
Next Move: Increase utility scale renewable generation by Platte River Power
Authority
Case study: Platte River Power Authority Integrated Resources Plan
https://www.prpa.org/irp/
How it could look in Fort Collins: Fort Collins receives all of its electricity from Platte River Power
Authority, and is also a membe
non-carbon by 2030. This will include additional wind and solar energy, as well as having additional
storage and participation in future electricity markets.
2021/22 efforts: In this timeframe, there will be additional detailed planning for an announced 150
megawatt solar project, as well as joint planning for additional distributed energy resources such as
solar and batteries. The Green Energy Program provides a program delivery model to deliver renewable
energy to customers who want to reduce their personal carbon footprint for electric consumption.
Lead partner: Platte River Power Authority
Support partner: Fort Collins Utilities
Impact and investment
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
2030
Cumulative
Community
Investment
2030
Annual
carbon
savings
(MT)
No new
investment High Low Medium $5.1M 423,700
Next Move: Continue to implement distributed solar programs
Case study: Fort Collins has extensive experience with this strategy.
How it could look in Fort Collins: Fort Collins Utilities has existing solar programs for homes and
businesses. This next move supports continued investment by Utilities to leverage private investment in
new solar projects, which in turn offset electricity use and export electricity which is used by nearby
customers. The incentives will be adjusted to meet customer interest levels with similar levels of Utilities
funding.
2021/22 efforts: Staff intends to review existing programs from an equity perspective to identify
opportunities for improvements in outcomes. Opportunities to streamline the application and
interconnection processes will also be reviewed. The proposed funding levels are consistent with
current budgets for Energy Services in Utilities. Funding may move within the portfolio to achieve
optimal results.
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Lead partner: Fort Collins Utilities
Support partner(s): Participating Solar Contractor Network
Impact and investment
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
2030
Cumulative
Community
Investment
2030
Annual
carbon
savings
(MT)
$14M High Low High $70M 36,270
Next Move: Explore new community solar options
How it could look in Fort Collins: Platte River has recently committed to a large utility scale solar project
of 150 megawatts. This next move would explore options to increase the size of that array by ten
megawatts with the incremental output allocated to Fort Collins. Fort Collins Utilities would then create
a model where the program and then receive bill credits associated with the solar
production. This next move is related to the one to provide solar for low and moderate income
customers by apportioning 10% of the community solar for that purpose.
2021/22 efforts: Investigate options with Platte River for expansion of the next utility scale solar project.
Develop a program business model for customer investment and receipt of benefits.
Lead partner: Fort Collins Utilities
Support partner: Platte River Power Authority
Impact and investment
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
2030
Cumulative
Community
Investment
2030
Annual
carbon
savings
(MT)
No new
investment Medium Low Medium $15M 12,100
Next Move: Explore options for renewable energy for low-income households
How it could look in Fort Collins: Platte River has recently committed to a large utility scale solar project
of 150 megawatts. This next move is tied to the new community solar one and would carve out one
megawatt of the proposed ten megawatt addition with benefits provided to low and moderate income
customers.
2021/22 efforts: Investigate options with Platte River for expansion of the next utility scale solar project.
Develop a program business model for customer investment and receipt of benefits. Explore integration
DRAFT Our Climate Future Two-year Tactical Plan (2021-2022)
Page 49 of 56
of solar with the Weatherization Assistance Program, which is eligible only for income-qualified
customers.
Lead partner: Fort Collins Utilities
Support partner: Platte River Power Authority
Impact and investment
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
2030
Cumulative
Community
Investment
2030
Annual
carbon
savings
(MT)
No new
investment Low High Medium $1.5M 1,350
Next Move: Develop systems to implement shared solar solutions
How it could look in Fort Collins: Fort Collins has one community solar project (Riverside) where the
common output of the solar system is apportioned to participating customers based on their ownership
share of the system; however, this system relies on non-standard billing tools that prevents scaling. This
enabling Next Move would develop the systems in order to have this option in place as a standardized
approach which could apply to multi-family properties, mixed-use commercial properties or future
community solar projects. Once implemented, shared solar projects could enhance the equity of access
to local rooftop solar for customers who rent or otherwise are unable to install solar on their own roof.
This Next Move is closely aligned with Utilities implementation of a new billing system.
2021/22 efforts: Continue to refine requirements of the Utilities billing system. Review associated
electric service standards, interconnection standards and codes to facilitate shared solar and remove
potential barriers to implementation.
Lead partner: Fort Collins Utilities
Support partner: City Attorney s Office
Impact and investment
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
Staff hours Enabling Medium High
Next Move: Continue to implement battery storage programs
How it could look in Fort Collins: Fort Collins has a pilot program which provides incentives for
residential battery installation and research on a commercial battery demonstration. This next move
proposed to continue the development and optimization of these pilots to refine the business case and
define additional benefits. See www.fcgov.com/utilities/residential-battery-storage-program.
DRAFT Our Climate Future Two-year Tactical Plan (2021-2022)
Page 50 of 56
2021/22 efforts: Continue pilot implementation, refine requirements for communications and control
capabilities, gather additional data for improving business case and necessary metrics. Coordinate with
the DER Strategic Planning project.
Lead partner: Fort Collins Utilities
Support partner: Platte River Power Authority, Participating Solar Contractors Network
Impact and cost table: Funding is included in existing Energy Services budget for 2021 and ongoing
budget for 2022
Impact and investment: 2021/22 Utilities funding in ongoing budget
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
No new
investment Low Low High
Big Move 13 - Electric cars and fleets . Residents can afford and use
electric cars, including shared electric cars, and conventional fleets are
converted to electric.
Though Our Climate Future imagines a future with less dependence on cars, cars and other single
occupancy vehicles will undoubtedly still play a role in getting us around. In line with market shifts and
our priorities of equity and climate action, over the next several years, those cars will continue to
transition to be electric, which can be made more affordable for private purchase through business, City,
State, or Federal incentives. Car use can also become more frequently a shared experience, such as
through carpools or a shared neighborhood electric car, something much more possible when most of
our daily transportation needs can be met through transit, biking, or walking. Commercial and municipal
fleets, such as trucks, buses, and business-related vehicles, will also continue to transition to be
electrified, improving local air quality, reducing noise, and improving our health.
Next Move: Support market driven adoption of electric cars
Case study: The City completed the Electric Vehicle Readiness Roadmap in 2018. The Roadmap outlines
strategies to implement to support electric vehicles. The City will continue to engage internal and
external stakeholders regarding the Roadmap and strategies outlined therein.
How it could look in Fort Collins: The City will continue collaboration with residents, policy makers at
various levels and stakeholder groups to support initiatives which facilitate EV adoption. These could
include education and awareness, charging infrastructure or data initiatives. The City can also help to
facilitate opportunities for additional external funding and workplace charging by Fort Collins
businesses. In planning to implement these strategies, the City will focus on equitable engagement and
seek opportunities to make electric cars more widely available to all.
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2021/22 efforts: The State recently adopted its version of an EV Roadmap, which the City could continue
to align with. The City will also continue pursuit of external funding opportunities. The City can also
coordinate and support group buy events with local auto dealers, which have been shown to increase EV
sales in Fort Collins more than 6 times over average monthly sales.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins FC Moves
Support partner(s): City of Fort Collins Environmental Services Department, Northern Colorado Clean
Cities, Fort Collins Utilities, Drive Electric Northern Colorado
Impact and investment
The 2030 community investment is based on EV purchases assuming the mid-range scenario
for EV adoption from the Colorado Energy Office
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
2030
Cumulative
Community
Investment
2030
Annual
carbon
savings
(MT)
$7.6M High Low Low $38M 93,400
Next Move: Assess community needs for electric vehicle infrastructure and programs
Case study: The City completed the Electric Vehicle Readiness Roadmap in 2018. The Roadmap outlines
strategies to implement to support electric vehicles. The City will continue to engage internal and
external stakeholders regarding the Roadmap and strategies outlined therein.
How it could look in Fort Collins: The City will coordinate ongoing assessment of how public charging
infrastructure is meeting the needs of local and visiting EV drivers and how the electric system is
performing to meet home, business and public EV charging. The assessment scope will also review
needs for programs, services or code-related opportunities to facilitate EV use in Fort Collins.
2021/22 efforts: The City will also continue pursuit of external funding opportunities for public charging
infrastructure. The City can also coordinate and maintain data which provides insights into charging
behavior and future infrastructure needs. Staff will seek community input to improve the equitability of
this effort.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins FC Moves
Support partner(s): Fort Collins Utilities, City of Fort Collins Environmental Services Department,
Northern Colorado Clean Cities, Drive Electric Northern Colorado
Impact and investment
DRAFT Our Climate Future Two-year Tactical Plan (2021-2022)
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Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
Pending
assessments Enabling Low Medium
Next Move: Transition to an emissions-free public transit
Case study: The City has received external funding to purchase our first three all-electric buses. The City
will continue to purchase electric buses as funding becomes available and focus on seeking external
funding sources as capacity allows. Denver has case study info at https://www.rtd-
denver.com/projects/battery-electric-bus-fleet.
How it could look in Fort Collins: As current buses are phased out at the end of their life-cycle, electric
buses will be considered as replacements. This could allow the City to plan for funds, charging
infrastructure needs and cadence needed to replace vehicles and a realize a fully electric fleet. However,
there are significant growing pains documented from larger communities across the world that should
serve as collaborators to avoid pitfalls experienced by peer communities. The City is also transitioning to
electric vehicles within other fleets on an ongoing/replacement basis.
2021/2022 efforts: City staff will continue to identify opportunities for external funding while also
planning for eventual transition of City funds towards electrification.
Lead partner: City of Fort Collins Transfort
Support partner: City of Fort Collins FC Moves
Impact and investment
$4.4M CMAQ funds have been awarded for 2022 and 2023 for the purchase of five electric
buses and two depot chargers
Estimated new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
2030
Cumulative
Community
Investment
2030
Annual
carbon
savings
(MT)
$4.4M Medium Low Medium Pending 330
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Summary of Tactical Plan Next Moves
Big Move Next Move Mitigation Equity Resilience
1 Identify opportunities where the City and the community can partner
on funding applications to advance Our Climate Future Big Moves Enabling Medium Medium
1 Design an equitable implementation structure of the Our Climate
Future Plan Enabling High Medium
1
Reimagine the Community Advisory Committee to align with the
race and explore opportunities to share decision-making
Enabling High Low
1 Partner to provide greater access to environmental education for
Spanish-speaking community members Enabling Medium Medium
1 Provide unconscious bias training to staff and partners involved in
Our Climate Future implementation. Enabling Medium Medium
1 Continue, and where appropriate expand, upon durable partners
beyond Fort Collins to achieve climate, energy and waste goals. Enabling Medium Medium
2 Explore additional community-needs donation bins Enabling Medium Medium
2 Expand recycling education campaign Enabling Low Low
2 Implement Universal Recycling Ordinance Medium High Low
2 Explore Universal Composting Ordinance and Related Composting
Infrastructure/Facilities Medium High Low
2 Implement Disposable Grocery Bag Policy Low Medium Low
2 Identify barriers to accessing recycling services Enabling Medium Low
3 Expand and enhance water efficiency programs and incentives Low Low Medium
3 Update codes to address nd
outdoor water efficiency Low Low Medium
3 Adopt a holistic approach to integrated water resource planning and
management (One Water Approach) Low Low Medium
3 Educate and communicate existing emergency sheltering process and
explore expanded options for disproportionately affected groups Low Medium High
3 Partner with trusted community sites to provide resources and
information during community emergencies (Resilience Hubs) Low Medium High
3
Ensure that air quality levels and information about related health
concerns is representative, easily accessible and broadly
communicated.
Low Medium Medium
3 Integrate climate resilience considerations into city strategic and
operational plans Low Medium Medium
4 Expanding local and regional public transit coverage and frequency
(per the 2019 Transit Master Plan) Medium Medium Medium
4 Create mobility hubs to support convenient transportation
connection options Low Low High
4 Provide travel trainings program Low Medium Medium
4 Continue to build bicycle facilities as identified in the Bicycle Master
Plan Medium High High
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Big Move Next Move Mitigation Equity Resilience
5 Enhance partnerships with schools to ensure safe ways for kids to
get to school Low Medium Low
5
Work
standards within the City land use code that includes housing options
and access to services for people of all ages and abilities.
Low High Medium
6 Continue and expand homes and business efficiency programs High Medium High
6 Develop an energy performance path for new construction to zero
carbon building by 2030 Low Low Medium
6 Expand programs for electrification of space and water heating Medium Low Low
6 Continue and expand demand response and grid flexibility programs Enabling Low Medium
6 Provide focused energy efficiency and indoor air quality incentives
for historically underserved households Enabling High Medium
7 Increase the number and diversity of housing types and allow more
h Medium Medium Low
7 Continue the Housing First model for supporting persons
experiencing homelessness and provide wraparound services Low High Medium
7 Expand foreclosure and eviction prevention and legal
representation, especially in times of crisis Low Medium Medium
7
ncy policy (U+2) to determine
opportunities to streamline processes and right size the policy for
ility, health, and affordability
citywide .
Low High Medium
8 Promote local food through education Medium High Medium
9 Update the Economic Health Strategic Plan to adapt to rapidly
changing economic conditions Enabling Medium Medium
9 Support small businesses and workforce development in times of
crisis Enabling Medium High
9 Support small businesses and workforce development in times of
stability Enabling Medium Medium
9 Reimagine a sustainable business program Enabling Low Medium
9 Explore opportunities and best practices for multilingual business
and workforce development programs Enabling Medium Medium
10 Support work on a digital marketplace for industrial waste Low Low Low
10 Expand industrial scale soil and earthworks material storage Enabling Low Low
11 Protect and expand natural habitats as growth occurs Enabling Low Medium
11 Pursue habitat protections in the case of oil and gas development in
natural areas Enabling Low Low
11 Partnerships for habitat management and education for wildfire
mitigation Enabling Medium High
11
Explore opportunities for the City to recognize historical BIPOC
connections to the land, especially indigenous connections, and
explore ways to support BIPOC-led efforts around land.
Enabling High Medium
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Big Move Next Move Mitigation Equity Resilience
12 Increase utility scale renewable generation by Platte River Power
Authority High Low Medium
12 Continue to implement distributed solar programs High Low High
12 Explore new community solar options Medium Low Medium
12 Explore options for renewable energy for low-income households Low High Medium
12 Develop systems to implement shared solar solutions Enabling Medium High
12 Continue to implement battery storage programs Low Low High
13 Support market driven adoption of electric cars High Low Low
13 Assess community needs for electric vehicle infrastructure and
programs Enabling Low Medium
13 Transition to an emissions-free public transit Low Low Medium
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Summary of Quantified Direct Greenhouse Gas Reduction Next Moves
Big Move Next Move
Estimated
new
investment
(2021-2022)
Mitigation Equity Resilience
2030
Cumulative
Community
Investment
2030
Annual
carbon
savings
(MT)
2 Implement Universal
Recycling Ordinance $2.6M Medium High Low $27.6M 12,740
2
Explore Universal
Composting Ordinance and
Related Composting
Infrastructure/Facilities
$5.0M High High Low $40M 59,600
4
Create mobility hubs to
support convenient
transportation connection
options
No new
investment Medium Low High $42M 2,870
4
Continue to build bicycle
facilities as identified in the
Bicycle Master Plan
$700k Medium High High $33.9M 17,200
6
Continue and expand homes
and business efficiency
programs
$30M High Medium High $155M 267,000
6
Develop an energy
performance path for new
construction to zero carbon
building by 2030
No new
investment Medium Low Medium $1.8M 4,900
6
Expand programs for
electrification of space and
water heating
No new
investment Medium Low Low $20.3M 31,000
6
Support Incentives and
Regulations to Reduce
Industrial Air Pollution
No new
investment Medium Low Low Pending 20,500
7
Expanding local and regional
public transit coverage and
frequency (per the 2019
Transit Master Plan)
$1.6M Medium Medium Medium $191M 16,650
12
Increase utility scale
renewable generation by
Platte River Power Authority
No new
investment High Low Medium $5.1M 423,700
12 Continue to implement
distributed solar programs $14M High Low High $70M 36,270
12 Explore new community
solar options
No new
investment Medium Low Medium $15M 12,100
12
Explore options for
renewable energy for low-
income households
No new
investment Low High Medium $1.5M 1,350
13 Support market driven
adoption of electric cars $7.6M High Low Low $38M 93,400
13 Transition to an emissions-
free public transit $4.4M Medium Low Medium Pending 330