Environmental Stewardship

By Janet Orchard

I have been actively involved in updated the land use code which will for the first time have a "green" element. The intent is to establish a city policy of environmentally progressive building guidelines of energy efficiency, alternative and sustainable materials and resources, water efficient landscaping, and design which promotes a healthy indoor environment and, through the use of education and incentives, to encourage private development to incorporate these elements.

I served on the Council's Energy Subcommittee that promoted and pursued energy saving alternatives, such as photovoltaic energy for the new Police Facility. This work resulted in the City receiving the U.S. Green Building Council's "Leadership in Energy Efficiency and Design" (LEED) designation of the new Police Facility, making it one of the first public buildings, and the first public safety building in the U.S. to obtain certification for its innovative energy saving design and construction.

I have actively supported and worked on creek restoration projects. the goal is to restore Cotati's creeks to their native habitat through removal and replacement of non-native vegetation with native vegetation.

I serve as the City's liaison to the Cities for Climate Protection (CCP). The CCP spearheaded an initiative enlisting the cities and county in a collaborative effort to reduce greenhouse gases.