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Ms. McKeown's presentation included a history of the program, subsequent to a <br /> 2009 report to the legislature and efforts for cities to help the State meet goals to <br /> reduce greenhouse gas and improve the economy, the environment and achieve <br /> social sustainability. Ms. McKeown advised that the program was designed for <br /> all MN cities and the best practices focused on cost savings and greenhouse gas <br /> reductions that led cities beyond basic steps and encouraged a culture of <br /> innovation. <br /> Ms. McKeown reviewed how a city could become a participant and be designated <br /> as an official GreenStep City, and provided a list of those cities and partnering <br /> agencies the state already participating. Steps to participate included: <br /> • Pass resolution of support <br /> • Document past actions <br /> • Implement minimum number of best practices based on your city category <br /> • Some selected by city, some required <br /> • May choose from several implementation actions to achieve credit for <br /> the best practice <br /> • Recognized for appropriate steps at annual LMC conference <br /> The five categories for best practices are: <br /> • Buildings and lighting <br /> • Transportation <br /> • Land use <br /> • Environmental management <br /> • Economic and community development <br /> Additional information is available from Ms. McKeown, Metro CERT Director at <br /> 612-455-9172 or e-mail at DianeMcKeown @cleanenergy resourceteams.org <br /> Ms. McKeown reviewed upcoming workshops cooperatively with the League of <br /> Minnesota Cities (LMC). <br /> Member Stenlund suggested PWET Commissioners and members of the public <br /> check out the group's website at http://greenstep.pca.state.mn.us/. <br /> Member Stenlund questioned the difference in city classifications, and where <br /> Roseville would fit in if they had determined some of the best practices had been <br /> or were already being done. <br /> Ms. McKeown noted that, in the metropolitan area, most cities have more best <br /> practices in play than out-state or rural communities; and defined the <br /> programmatic requirements to determine the classification of cities; and provided <br /> rationale for the city to become involved to document and create a framework for <br /> their sustainability work, for recognition, marketing, or to realize cost savings in <br /> building costs, storm water management, transportation or other categories. <br /> Page 4 of 10 <br />