HomeMy WebLinkAbout4.1 Village Government Sustainability Plan: Initial Report Review and FeedbackMiro w pr"S -1
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VillageSubject -.
FeedbackReview and
Meeting February 28, 2023 - COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE -
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Purpose:
The Sustainability Plan Report and Implementation Guide are the result of the Village
Board's 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 Strategic Plan prioritization.
The 2021-2022 Strategic Plan Action: "Village Operational Sustainability Plan:
Development", which has the working title of "Sustainability Plan Report", reviews past and
current Village government operations for sustainability processes and activities. The
Village did not have a prior document that attempted comprehensively recorded the
Village's sustainability actions and achievements.
The 2022-2023 Strategic Plan Action: "Village Government Sustainability Plan: Community
Task Force Review and Refinement, Report with Recommendation and Direction", which a
working title of "Sustainability Plan - Implementation Guide" proposes goals with a five-
year outlook, and identifies actions that address each goal. The action included forming an
Ad Hoc Committee, preparing initial report from Ad Hoc Committee, and report review and
feedback with the Village Board at a Committee of the Whole meeting.
Introduction:
Sustainability is meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of
future generations to meet their own needs. Sustainable practices support ecological,
human and economic health and vitality. This is reflected in the Metropolitan Mayor Caucus
Greenest Region Compact, which the Village Board endorsed by resolution on February 12,
2008, with it's 49 high-level goals across 10 sustainability categories:
• Climate
• Economic Development
• Energy
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• Land
• Leadership
• Mobility
• Municipal Operations
• Sustainable Communities
• Water
• Waste & Recycling
The Greenest Region Compact and the Framework, a companion document that provides
objectives and strategies, was designed as a tool for municipalities to supplement their
existing sustainability plans, to construct a local sustainability plan, and to be pseudo -
sustainability plan in absence of a local one.
Sustainability is also a journey with respect to sustainable actions for individuals and
institutions. Village of Mount Prospect's journey started decades prior to the referenced
Strategic Plan actions; however, this is the first-time staff, community members, and the
Village Board are working toward a formal Sustainability Plan Report and Implementation
Guide with a five-year outlook. While these planning documents are new, the Village has
incorporated sustainability in operations, capital projects, policies and in long -ranging
planning like the Comprehensive Plan and Community Investment Plan. The Sustainability
Plan Report outlines regional efforts, notable achievements/awards and highlights the
importance of the Greenest Region Compact categories. It also explains Village actions,
past and present, in support of the Greenest Region Compact. These are just a few of the
Village's achievements:
• Early implementers of curb side recycling for single-family homes
• Installed electric vehicle charging stations in the Emerson Street and Maple Street
Parking Decks
• Tree City USA Award - 38 consecutive years
• SolSmart Gold Designated Community
• Signatory to the Mayors Monarch Pledge
• New Sidewalk Program to fill gaps in pedestrian networks
• The Village's Backyard Drainage "Rain Garden" Program
• Annual household hazardous waste recycling events
• Various Flood Control/Stormwater Improvement Projects (Levee 37, Burning Bush
Trails Park, Aspen Trails Park, Isabella Drainage Improvements, etc.)
Ad Hoc Committee:
The 2022-2023 Strategic Plan Action "Village Government Sustainability Plan" outlined the
formation of a Ad Hoc Committee. The committee was formed with members from existing
boards and commissions who volunteered to participate and several members of the public
(i.e. not a member of a board or commission). Several volunteers have professional
environmental or sustainability related experience which proved helpful to discussions and
planning. The Village's boards and commissions members have existing knowledge of
Village operations which was thought to be beneficial to the sustainability planning process.
In addition, their experience participating in the sustainability ad hoc committee may be
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valuable to the board or commission of which they are a current member.
This planning process was facilitated by staff and was similar to the Village Board's
strategic planning process. The first meeting of the Ad Hoc Committee was in September
2022. The assignment was to review and provide feedback on the Sustainability Plan
Report, which carried over into the October meeting. After reviewing what the Village has
completed so far, Ad Hoc Committee members were asked to provide purpose -driven long
term goals which the group would discuss and prioritize at the November meeting. Staff
created the first draft of the Implementation Guide based on the prioritization process and
insights from the Committee during December, for review at the January 2023 Ad Hoc
Committee meeting. In February, staff worked to prepare for the February 28, 2023
Committee of the Whole discussion and provide the Committee an opportunity to review
the presentation through email (since the Ad Hoc Committee did not meet in February).
Implementation Guide:
The Implementation Guide's goals are the result of the Ad Hoc Committee proposing and
prioritizing goals. The goals are listed in the order of most votes received and a goal need a
majority of votes to make the list.
1. Promote the use of environment friendly alternatives for landscapes throughout the
community
2. Help reduce solid waste tonnage generated by all users
3. Construct new shared -use paths and sidewalks to create greater opportunities for
walking and biking
4. Use energy for building and facilities efficiently
5. Maintain landscapes with an aesthetically pleasing neighborhood appeal, in a safe and
environmentally sensitive manner, which minimizes the use of pesticides and
herbicides
6. Formalize participation in the Illinois Finance Authority's C -PACE Program that will
allow commercial and certain residential properties to finance investment in electric
vehicle charging, energy efficiency, water conservation, renewable energy and
resilient design of new and existing buildings
7. Encourage installation of solar panels and participation in the Village's community
solar program
In the Guide, each goal is framed by objectives that provide the intended outcomes.
Additional context is provided by the Value to the Community and Value to Environment
sections. These are followed by identified Challenges and Opportunities related to each
goal. The Management in Progress actions are planned capital projects or exiting programs
provided by staff that address the specific goal. These efforts were shared with the Ad Hoc
Committee prior to them proposing the Actions. The action items listed On The Horizon are
actions which have no current or planned supporting initiatives. Lastly, goals submitted by
committee members and did not receive a majority of votes are recorded under the Goals
On The Horizon section of the guide. This is to further document the planning process,
since this information may be beneficial if this process was to repeat in the future.
Next Steps:
The Village Board may use the Implementation Guide as a resource in the 2023-2024
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strategic planning process. Staff is already making progress on some Actions submitted by
the Ad Hoc Committee and has identified planned capital projects or exiting programs that
address majority of the goals.
It is undetermined at this time if the Sustainability Implementation Guide will have annual
planning sessions like the Village's Strategic Plan or how those sessions would be
facilitated.
Conclusion:
As stated, sustainability is a journey, and this is the Village's first step into formal
sustainability planning. Other communities' sustainability plans may have more than seven
goals or more actions identified; however, they may also be at a different point in their
journey. The Village of Mount Prospect has made a lot of progress without a formal plan in
place, in part to leadership by past Mayors and Village Boards, collaborating with regional
partners and staff who works towards the best interest of the community and best
practices.
Alternatives
1. Discuss the draft Sustainability Plan Implementation Guide.
2. Action at the discretion of the Village Board.
ATTACHMENTS:
Sustainability Recommendation Draft 02.24.2023.pdf
Feb 28 COW Presentation. pdf
Village Operational Sustainability Report_Draft_V1.8_02.01.2023 - Copy.pdf
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mount
Village of Mount Prospect
Sustainability Plan
Part II - Implementation Guide
2023 —2028
Strategic Plan: Policy Agenda / Top Priority
Goal 1: Effective Village Government: Financially Sound, Providing Exceptional Service
Draft 02/24/2023
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Village of Mount Prospect Goals 2028
1) Promote the use of environment friendly alternatives for landscapes throughout the
community
2) Help reduce solid waste tonnage generated by all users
3) Construct new shared -use paths and sidewalks to create greater opportunities for
walking and biking
4) Use energy for building and facilities efficiently
5) Maintain landscapes with an aesthetically pleasing neighborhood appeal, in a safe and
environmentally sensitive manner, which minimizes the use of pesticides and herbicides
6) Formalize participation in the Illinois Finance Authority's C -PACE Program that will allow
commercial and certain residential properties to finance investment in electric vehicle
charging, energy efficiency, water conservation, renewable energy and resilient design of
new and existing buildings
7) Encourage installation of solar panels and participation in the Village's community solar
program
Page 1 of 18
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GOAL 1— Promote the use of environment friendly alternatives for landscapes throughout the
community
OBJECTIVES
Objective 1: Increase the use of sustainable and/or native plants resilient to the urban
environment in landscaping at Village -owned properties unless such use is not appropriate
Objective 2: Utilize green infrastructure, including rain gardens, to assist with controlling storm
water when feasible
Objective 3: Create a communication campaign centered around limiting the use of fertilizer and
pesticides for lawn care, storm water benefits of native plants, water conservation and
composting
Objective 4:
VALUE TO THE COMMUNITY
1: Provides new habitats for animals and insects increasing biodiversity
2: Pollinators are critical for growing crops
3: Provides more opportunities for the community to learn about ecosystems
4: May improve health and well-being by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and use of
synthetic chemicals
5: Some wildlife species help control mosquitoes and other nuisance insects
6: Green spaces improve an individual's health by creating more opportunities to connect with
nature
VALUE TO ENVIRONMENT
1: Supports biodiversity and a healthy ecosystem.
2: Reduces water consumption
3: Native landscapes reduce the need for lawn equipment and fertilizers; reducing new carbon
emissions
4: Reduces the need for fertilizers and pesticides
5:
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Challenges
Cl: Differing aesthetic preferences for lawns and yards
C2: Increasing potential for tall grass and weeds code enforcement complaints
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C3: In their first season, native plants require more attention and care, mostly in watering to
become established
C4: Native landscaped areas require maintenance and weeding
C5: Potential sight triangle obstructions at intersections and driveways
C6: Possible impact on home values with traditional turf and landscaping receiving a higher
value than a yard mostly converted to native grasses and flowers
C7: Creates an opportunities for nuisance wildlife since tall grasses and plants may provide food
and cover (i.e. mice, raccoons, coyotes, ticks, etc)
C8: Some native plants are aggressive spreaders and go beyond designated planting areas
C9:
Opportunities
01: Use the Village's existing native landscaped areas as educational opportunities
02: Link interested individuals to information on how to landscape with native plants
03: Community resources like the Mount Prospect Garden Club and Mount Prospect Monarchs
Facebook group
04:
ACTIONS (Provided by the Ad Hoc Committee)
1: Continue participation with the Mayors' Monarch Pledge, Monarch Waystation Program
(Village has 5 butterfly gardens) and the Illinois Monarch Project
2: Install signage by planting beds to identify plant types and explain why these plants are
beneficial to the environment
3: Host informational tables at Village and community events (i.e. Midwest Grows Green /
Garden Club)
4: Find ways to publicize materials supporting alternatives for grass lawns and limiting the use of
fertilizer and pesticides for lawn care
5. Increase public awareness of natural lawn care techniques and alternatives to traditional turf
grass
6. Host informational presentations/seminars lead by industry experts (Chip Osborne — Healthy
Lawn Presentation)
7. Have a native plant seeds giveaway, possibly in conjunction with community group
8. Connect residents to resources for better lawn care and plant health (i.e. Lurvey's Garden
Center)
Page 3 of 18
9. Continue to look for actions and learn from neighboring communities and organizations (i.e.
Skokie / Evanston / Chicago Park District)
10. Create a Sustainability Guide to provide to new residents and realtors (i.e. native plants,
natural lawn care, drainage, link to related resources)
11.
MANAGEMENT IN PROGRESS (Provided by Village Staff)
1: Klehm's Island Landscape: New landscape design for the center island including perennial
planting beds, trees, hardscape, irrigation, and a new raised annual flower bed
2: New Sustainable Landscaping Projects:
• Along Rand Road from Schoenbeck Rd north to about 2440 E Rand Road
• Corner of Euclid Ave and Elmhurst Rd, adjacent from Old Orchard Country Club golf
course
3.
4.
ON THE HORIZON 2023 — 2028:
1: A Pollinator Garden at Central Rd and Mount Prospect Road
2:
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GOAL 2 — Help reduce solid waste tonnage generated by all users
OBJECTIVES
Objective 1: Set recycling targets for single family residences
Objective 2: Continue to track single-family diversion rates
Objective 3: Increase recycling and decrease amount of contamination in recycling pickups
Objective 4: Share information on how people can reduce the amount of waste they create
Objective 5: Promote reusing materials instead of disposing as waste or recycling
Objective 6:
VALUE TO THE COMMUNITY
1: Promotes a circular economy
2: Opportunity to learn how to make more environmentally friendly purchases
3: Supports the local economy
4:
VALUE TO ENVIRONMENT
1: Reduces use of non-renewable resources
2: Reduces greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution associated with the manufacturing,
shipping, and recycling of goods
3: Less toxic chemicals contaminating soils or water sources
4:
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Challenges
Cl: Wishcycling and contaminated recyclables
C2: A demand for recycled materials
C3: Multiple layers of product packaging generating additional waste
C4: Products designed for planned obsolescence and disposable products
C5: Growth of the throw -away economy/society
C6:
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Opportunities
01: Illinois legislators introducing an Extended Producer Responsibility bill for product packaging
and paper products
02: Village of Mount Prospect launching Styrofoam recycling
03: Resale shops, garage sales, flea markets and customer to customer (C2C) marketplaces
04: Increasing popularity of upcycling within society
05: Illinois EPA Grant funding opportunity to support county solid waste planning
ACTIONS (Provided by the Ad Hoc Committee)
1: Share information to help the community reduce solid waste at the source
2: Increase awareness on issues with wishcycling
3. Create a Village "Recycle Coach" Podcast — share lessons learned from recycling audits,
recycling tips and information
4. Ask restaurants to reduce single use plastic (provide upon request only). Collaborate with the
Mount Prospect Downtown Merchants Association to achieve this action. Create a recognition
or award for these businesses
MANAGEMENT IN PROGRESS (Provided by Village Staff)
1: Conduct multi -family recycling audits in 2023
2: Continue with single family audits that were implemented in 2022
3: Launch Stryofoam recycling, addresses the biggest contaminant in the recycling stream
4: Continue production of the Village's Recycling Newsletter
5: Share SWANCC's Reusability Guide with the community
6: Update recycling "How to" decals and distribute; outcome of the 2022 recycling audit
7:
ON THE HORIZON 2023 — 2028
1:
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GOAL 3 — Construct new shared -use paths and sidewalks to create greater opportunities for walking and
biking
OBJECTIVES
Objective 1: Increase bike path infrastructure, sidewalks, bridges and the pedestrian network
within Mount Prospect
Objective 2: Support public transit access and commuter ridership
Objective 3: Reduce last mile barriers for public transportation
Objective 4: Support active transportation
Objective 5:
VALUE TO THE COMMUNITY
1: Increases physical activity and creates potential for improved health and mental wellbeing
outcomes
2: Improves public transit
3: Advances social equity and quality of life
4: Improves air quality
5:
VALUE TO ENVIRONMENT
1: Reduces greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution
2: Reduces ground and surface water pollution
3: Potential to preserve or provide greenspace (i.e. smaller parking lots & narrower roads)
4:
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Challenges
Cl: Convenience of traveling by a vehicle
C2: Gaps in bike and public transportation networks
C3: Inclement or hot weather
C4: Safety concerns from cyclists sharing roads with distracted drivers
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C5: Available funding for bike or shared use path design, engineering and construction
C6: Competing individual and jurisdictional priorities that limit support for shared bike lanes on
roads
Opportunities
01: Increasing awareness and more individuals choosing active transportation
02: The Chicago metropolitan area is already planning ways to improve bike route networks and
implement complete street policies
03: Reducing last mile barriers for public transportation
04: Monitor electric bike and scooter trends for transportation
05:
ACTIONS (Provided by the Ad Hoc Committee)
1: Continue to support Northwest Municipal Conference - Bike & Pedestrian Committee efforts
to better connect bike paths throughout suburban communities
2: Explore the feasibility of a shared shuttle bus program connecting business areas to various
stops in the community (i.e. Schaumburg's Woodfield Trolley)
3: Identify the first and last mile gaps for Mount Prospect's public transit routes
MANAGEMENT IN PROGRESS (Provided by Village Staff)
1: Construction of shared use paths, lighting and associated wayfinding signs along corridors
that meet the goals of the Village Bike Plan (Kensington Road at railroad tracks -- Phase I & II
Engineering -- $35,000 & Wolf Road -- Phase II Engineering -- $260,000)
2: Central Road Pedestrian Crossing Improvements at Cathy Lane (Construction Engineering -
$71,000, Construction -$710,000)
3: New Sidewalk Program (installs news sidewalks to fill in gaps in the sidewalk infrastructure)
- Rand Road from Camp McDonald Road to the existing sidewalk (north side)
- Wolf Road from Euclid Avenue to the Prospect Heights Train Station (east side)
- Busse Road from Imperial Court to 1-90 (east side)
- Oakton Street from 1-90 to Lexington Drive (north side)
- Oakton Street from 1-90 to the Village limits (south side)
4: Launch an Arterial Bike Network Study in 2023
5: Continue to explore the Meadows Melas Bridge project
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6: Construct pedestrian crossing at Busse Ave and Main Street
7: Construct the Rand Road shared use path that will connect with Des Plaines
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ON THE HORIZON 2023 — 2028
1: Construction of shared use paths, lighting and associated wayfinding signs along corridors
that meet the goals of the Village Bike Plan (Algonquin Rd., Busse Rd., Rand Rd., Golf Rd.)
2: Pilot a protected bike lane - Kensington Business Center
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GOAL 4 — Use energy for building and facilities efficiently
OBJECTIVES
Objective 1: Establish metrics to evaluate energy use as a community
Objective 2: Review the Village Code to improve resource efficiency and adopt clean energy
Objective 3: Increase energy efficiency of municipal government buildings
Objective 4: Engage the community in clean energy practices
Objective 5:
VALUE TO THE COMMUNITY
1: Reduce natural gas and electric bills with a possibility of long-term net savings
2: Increase property value by improving energy efficiency of buildings
3: Improves resiliency of building stock
4: Meet growing energy demand and create jobs
5: Diversify energy sources and improve resiliency of energy generation systems
VALUE TO ENVIRONMENT
1: Reduces greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution through improved energy efficiency
2: Diversify energy sources to lessen the environmental impact of energy generation
3:
4:
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Challenges
Cl: Individuals and businesses having the financial resources available to make energy efficiency
improvements
C2: Higher energy efficiency standards affecting return on investment for home
builders/developers
C3: Long-term (20 year) return on investment
C4: Lower electric and natural gas prices on average
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C5: Municipal franchise agreements with ComEd and Nicor
Opportunities
01: Funding opportunities from the Inflation Reduction Act
02: Increasing electric and natural gas prices, supply shortages, and related economic factors
03: Implementing higher energy efficiency codes
04: Development of building performance standards and stretch codes
05:
ACTIONS (Provided by the Ad Hoc Committee)
1: Conduct an energy audit of municipal government buildings
2: Adopt the 2022 Illinois Energy Conservation Code
3: Greater promotion of the Village's Community Solar Program through an additional postcard
mailing informing residents of the program combined with a social media campaign
4: Offer presentations/webinars hosted by industry experts in electric vehicles, energy sources,
community solar, etc., and create portal on the Village's website for people to access these
presentations/webinars on -demand (May apply to all seven goals)
5: Establish a brand/logo for the Village's sustainability efforts (Applies to all seven goals)
6: Improve communications with the community regarding the Village's sustainability efforts
and link the community to resources to help individuals sustainability efforts (Applies to all
seven goals)
7: Add a Green Tips section to the Village Newsletter (Applies to all seven goals)
8: Share rebate information from the Inflation Reduction Act & Clean Energy Jobs Act
MANAGEMENT IN PROGRESS (Provided by Village Staff)
1:
2:
ON THE HORIZON 2023 — 2028
1:
2:
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GOAL 5 — Maintain landscapes with an aesthetically pleasing neighborhood appeal, in a safe and
environmentally sensitive manner, which minimizes the use of pesticides and herbicides
OBJECTIVES
Objective 1: Use integrated pest management strategies for municipal buildings and landscapes
to reduce impact from pesticides
Objective 2: Educate residents on the dangers of home pesticide use to human health,
pollinators and insects; share information on natural alternatives.
Objective 3: Reduce the use of coal tar pavement sealants through the community
Objective 4:
VALUE TO THE COMMUNITY
1: Helps to reduce potential for exposure to chemicals and their associated health concerns
2:
3:
4:
VALUE TO ENVIRONMENT
1: Reduces harm to non -targeted plants and insects
2: Reduces water pollution of waterways and groundwater
3: Supports biodiversity and a healthy ecosystem
4:
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Challenges
Cl: Appearance and maintenance standards of public property and rights-of-way versus the
appearance of native plants and landscaping (i.e. increased code enforcement complaints,
negative feedback to public works)
C2: Increases cost of landscaping maintenance (i.e. weeding by hand, increased frequency)
C3: Pesticides are required to control various native and invasive pests like the emerald ash
borer
C4: Influx of invasive species and changes in weather patterns may also increase landscaping
and pest control costs (i.e. Common Buckthorn)
C5: Decreasing insect populations will affect ecosystem health and possibly food supplies
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C6:
Opportunities
01: Provide information about Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
02: The Village of Mount Prospect does not use coal tar sealant
03:
04:
ACTIONS (Provided by the Ad Hoc Committee)
1: Connect residents to information on natural alternatives for pesticides and herbicides
2: Continue to look for actions and learn from neighboring communities and organizations
3: Create a Sustainability Guide to provide to new residents and realtors (i.e. native plants,
natural lawn care, drainage, link to related resources)
4. Increase public awareness on dangers from coal tar sealants to human health
5. Install signage in planting beds to identify different plant types and explain why these plants
are beneficial to the environment
MANAGEMENT IN PROGRESS (Provided by Village Staff)
1:
2:
ON THE HORIZON 2023 — 2028
1:
2:
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GOAL 6 — Formalize participation in the Illinois Finance Authority's C -PACE Program that will allow
commercial and certain residential properties to finance investment in electric vehicle charging, energy
efficiency, water conservation, renewable energy and resilient design of new and existing buildings.
OBJECTIVES
Objective 1: Provide commercial and certain residential properties a financing opportunity to
make investments in electric vehicle charging, energy efficiency, water conservation, renewable
energy and resilient design of new and existing buildings
Objective 2: Reduce carbon emissions, energy use, and water consumption
Objective 3: Upgrade or repurpose existing buildings to retain or attract businesses
Objective 4:
VALUE TO THE COMMUNITY
1: Reduces energy and water use; opportunities to pass savings on to tenants
2: Reduces the building owners' cost of capital to fund building improvements
3: New business opportunities for technical, trades, lending and equipment sales
4: Generates investment and reinvestment within the community
5: 100% voluntary: no property owner is obligated to take any action
6:
VALUE TO ENVIRONMENT
1: Reduces carbon emissions, energy use, and water consumption
2: Improves energy efficiency and expands installation of clean energy technologies
3: Contributes to developing high performing buildings
4: Creates a more resilient building stock
5:
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Challenges
Cl: Program created by the Illinois Legislature (Property Assessed Clean Energy Act 50 ILCS 50/1)
and subject to any future legislative changes
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C2: Familiarizing developers and property owners with the opportunity
C3: Requires interested property owners to execute additional agreements under the statewide
IFA PACE Program
C4: Loan remains with property and uses the property tax bill as a means to ensure repayment
Opportunities
01: Provides a loan for specific improvements at a lower interest rate than a traditional
construction loan without financial or administrative risk to the village
02: Loan repayment risk is eliminated if the property is sold — Loan remains with property and
uses the property tax bill as a means to ensure repayment
03: More resilient commercial and industrial buildings
04: Addresses challenges of Goal 4: Use energy for buildings and facilities efficiently
05: Increases property value by improving energy efficiency of buildings
06: Support business development and retention
07: Provides beneficial sustainable funding at no cost to residents or the municipality
ACTIONS (Provided by the Ad Hoc Committee)
1: Village Board approves an ordinance for Mount Prospect to participate in the C -PACE Program
2: Increase awareness of the C -PACE program
3: Present C -PACE projects for Village Board approval
4: Create a recognition or an award for C -PACE projects in Mount Prospect and webpage
providing environmental impact information for each approved project
MANAGEMENT IN PROGRESS (Provided by Village Staff)
1:
2:
ON THE HORIZON 2023 — 2028
1:
2:
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GOAL 7 — Encourage installation of solar panels and participation in the Village's community solar
program
OBJECTIVES
Objective 1: Increase participation in solar energy among residential and commercial properties
Objective 2: Create a communication campaign that provides information and resources about
solar panels and the Village's community solar program
Objective 3: Install solar panels on Village properties
Objective 4: Engage the community in clean energy practices
Objective 5:
Objective 6:
VALUE TO THE COMMUNITY
1: Reduces air pollution
2: Owning and installing solar panels provides a potential for a return on investment
3: Community solar allows for equal access to environmental benefits of solar energy with an
opportunity for cost savings
4: Increases property values for the homes with solar panels installed
5: Diversifies energy production for a more resilient electric grid
6:
VALUE TO ENVIRONMENT
1: Assist the region's shift to renewable energy
2: Reduces greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants from power plants such as sulfur
oxides, nitrogen oxides and particulate matter
3:
4:
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Challenges
Cl: Existing electric grid may not be adequate to support larger solar panel installations
C2: Available funding, materials and labor for electric grid improvements
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C3: The notion of cutting down mature trees to maximize solar energy generation
C4: Not every roof configuration is ideal for maximum solar power generation
C5: Environmental impacts from manufacturing solar panels
C6: End of life recycling of solar panels and safe disposal of toxic materials
C7:
Opportunities
01: Mount Prospect is solar ready - Solsmart Gold Designated Community
02: Federal and State tax incentives support installing solar panels
03: There is a lot of expressed interest for solar energy and installing solar panels
04: Future advancements in solar panel technology (i.e. printable solar panels)
05:
ACTIONS (Provided by the Ad Hoc Committee)
1: Promote the Village's Community Solar Program for increased participation
2: Understand climate change on a local level and what it means for Mount Prospect (i.e.
increase rainfall, draughts, temperature extremes, etc.)
3: Communicate how climate change will impact the community (i.e. increased energy demand
for AC with climate change).
4: Create a map of Mount Prospect showing where solar panels are installed
5: Create a decision tree resource for residents evaluating if installing solar energy is right for
them
MANAGEMENT IN PROGRESS (Provided by Village Staff)
1: Increase solar panel adoption within the community (residential, commercial, industrial, etc.)
2:
ON THE HORIZON 2023 — 2028
1: Install solar panels on Village properties or equivalent (i.e. participation in community solar)
2:
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GOALS ON THE HORIZON
• Create an informational campaign on storm water management projects and how systems will
operate when rain events exceed storm water system capacity. Frames expectations and gives
resources for residents to prepare for significant rain events (i.e. 500 year storm).
• Increase electric vehicle use in the Village fleet
• Benchmark the Village of Mount Prospect with other municipalities in the region to develop best
practices for sustainability
• Update community plans, zoning and design standards to increase housing and community
resilience to the impacts of climate change, including flooding, heat island, and extreme
weather particularly for populations most vulnerable every 5 years
• Develop resiliency to climate change impacts, specifically, a resiliency plan to protect assets,
public health, and provide essential services through natural and man-made disasters
• Create a traffic task force with representatives of school administration and parents from each
of the primary schools located within Mount Prospect to develop standardized, school -specific
procedures to reduce congestion and idling, such as staggered release of students depending on
transportation mode
• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions, specifically "Measure and monitor GHG emissions"
• Promote sustainable businesses who are Green America
• Preserve and seek opportunities for more green space (pocket parks); reduce amount of
impermeable pavement and blacktop
• Increase public transit access and commuter ridership
• Develop and launch an "Understanding Mount Prospect's Natural Drainage Hydrology'
education program, including making topographic/hydrologic maps available on the village web
site
• Every sustainability measure must go through a cost/benefit analysis to justify the feasibility to
taxpayers
Page 18 of 18
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F24
Sustainability Ad Hoc Committee
27
Sustainability Plan — Implementation
28
Prioritized Goals
neignoornooa appeai, in a sane ana environmentaiiy sensitive
manner, which minimizes the use of pesticides and herbicides
29
Prioritized Goals
30
Goal 1: Promote environment friendly
alternatives for landscapes throughout the community
V,.. 1%.AI LI II I..."1,LA F• V V L 1 V 1%A V V.. 1.%.01 ILA Y Y. 1. 1... VLA7 V,.
benefits of native plants, water conservation and composting
31
Differing aesthetic preferences for lawns Use the Village's existing native
and yards
Increasing potential for tall grass and
weeds code enforcement complaints
Native landscaped areas require
maintenance and weeding
landscaped areas as educational
opportunities
Link interested individuals to information
on how to landscape with native plants
Community resources like the Mount
Prospect Garden Club and Mount
Prospect Monarchs Facebook group
Goal 1: Actions
related resources)
34
Goal 2: Help reduce solid waste tonnage
generated by all users
5. Promote reusing materials instead of disposing as waste or
recycling
35
Wishcycling and contaminated
recyclables
A demand for recycled materials
Multiple layers of product packaging
generating additional waste
Illinois legislators introducing an
Extended Producer Responsibility bill for
product packaging and paper products
Village of Mount Prospect launching
Styrofoam recycling
Resale shops, garage sales, flea markets
and customer to customer (C2C)
marketplaces
Goal 2: Actions
recognition or award for these businesses
38
Goal 3: Construct new shared -use paths
sidewalks
39
Goal 3: Actions
42
Goal 4: Use energy for building
efficiently
and facilities"
}
43
L]
Having the financial resources available
to make energy efficiency improvements
Higher energy efficiency standards
affecting return on investment for home
builders/developers
Lower electric and natural gas prices on
average
•
Funding opportunities from the Inflation
Reduction Act
Increasing electric and natural gas prices,
supply shortages, and related economic
factors
Implementing higher energy efficiency
codes
Goal 4: Actions
46
Goal 5: Maintain landscapes with an aesthetically pleasing 'k
neighborhood appeal, in a safe and environmentally sensitive
manner, which minimizes the use of pesticides and herbicides
47
Appearance and maintenance standards Provide information about Integrated
of public property and rights-of-way
versus the appearance of native plants
and landscaping
Increases cost of landscaping
maintenance (i.e., weeding by hand,
increased frequency)
Pesticides are required to control various
native and invasive pests like the
emerald ash borer
Pest Management (IPM)
The Village of Mount Prospect does not
use coal tar sealant
Goal 5: Actions
related resources)
50
Goal 6: Formalize participation in the
Finance Authority's C -PACE Program
rMMMML—AaWS\M\W—sM
businesses
E
r
Ilinoisx
z
X
}
Reduces energy and water use;
opportunities to pass savings on to
tenants
Reduces the building owners' cost of
capital to fund building improvements
New business opportunities for
w 1lkry � W
Reduces carbon emissions, energy use,
and water consumption
Improves energy efficiency and expands
installation of clean energy technologies
Contributes to developing high
technical, trades, lending and equipment performing buildings
sales
Program created by the Illinois
Legislature (Property Assessed Clean
Energy Act 50 ILCS 50/1) and subject to
any future legislative changes
Familiarizing developers and property
owners with the opportunity
Requires interested property owners to
execute additional agreements under
the statewide IFA PACE Program
w 1lkry � W
Provides a loan for specific
improvements at a lower interest rate
than a traditional construction loan
without risk to the Village
Loan repayment risk is eliminated if the
property is sold — remains with property
& uses property tax bill to ensure
repayment
More resilient commercial and industrial
buildings
Goal 6: Actions
54
Goal 7: Encourage installation of solar panels and
participation in the Village's community solar program
4. tngage the community in dean energy practices
55
Existing electric grid may not be
adequate to support larger solar panel
installations
Available funding, materials and labor
for electric grid improvements
The notion of cutting down mature trees
to maximize solar energy generation
Mount Prospect is solar ready - Solsmart
Gold Designated Community
Federal and State tax incentives support
installing solar panels
There is a lot of expressed interest for
solar energy and installing solar panels
Goal 7: Actions
installing solar energy is right for them
58
Actions Overall
59
Goals on the Horizon
• Develop resiliency to climate
change impacts
• Increase public transit access
and commuter ridership
60
mount
Village of Mount Prospect
Sustainability Plan
Part l — Report
Strategic Plan: Policy Agenda / High Priority
Goal 1: Effective Village Government: Financially Sound, Providing Exceptional Service
Draft 02/24/2023
h:\vilm\sustainability\operational sustainability plan\village operational sustainability
report_draft_v1.8_02.01.2023 - copy.docx
62
Contents
Introduction: ................................................................................................................................................. 2
RegionalEfforts: ............................................................................................................................................
3
RelatedVillage Plans: ....................................................................................................................................
4
SustainabilityAwards: ...................................................................................................................................
5
SustainabilityPlan: ........................................................................................................................................
7
Terminology: .............................................................................................................................................
8
1. Atmosphere & Air.............................................................................................................................
9
2. Economic Development..................................................................................................................11
3. Stationary Energy............................................................................................................................13
4. Land.................................................................................................................................................
18
5. Leadership + Municipal Operations................................................................................................
21
6. Mobility: ..........................................................................................................................................
23
7. Sustainable Communities: ..............................................................................................................
28
8. Waste and Recycling.......................................................................................................................
30
9. Water..............................................................................................................................................
33
Sustainability in Mount Prospect Survey: ...................................................................................................
35
Page 1 of 38
63
Introduction:
The Village Board prioritized preparing of a Village Operational Sustainability Plan during the 2021-2022
the Village Board Strategic Planning Process. This High Priority Policy Agenda action item includes a
summary of current government operations for sustainability processes and activities, identifying new
initiatives through a review of trends and best practices, conducting community outreach, and preparing
a report with findings and recommendations.
The 2021-2022 Strategic Plan also recommends the creation of a Community Sustainability Strategy
Action Plan. This action item is to create a Sustainability Action Plan with many of the Key Issues (Waste
and Recycling, Water Conservation, Land Use, Pesticide Use, Electric Vehicle in the Community, etc.) that
overlap with the Village Operational Sustainability Plan.
The Village Operational Sustainability Plan is intended to be foundational sustainability document for the
Village of Mount Prospect. This plan identifies focus areas by using the Greenest Region Compact goals
and framework and explains why these focus areas are important for supporting sustainability. It also
reviews the Village's past achievements and current initiatives related to sustainability which will assist in
directing resources to focus areas that may need more attention. A Part II — Implementation Guide will
outline new initiatives and accompany the Village Operational Sustainability Plan. It is advised that both
documents would receive annual updates to track completed actions and adjust future initiatives.
Sustainability Plan Goals:
• Review regional suitability efforts
• Highlight sustainability initiatives in long-range plans and prior sustainability -related awards
• Establish sustainability focus areas/categories and explain how they support sustainability
• Document prior sustainability initiatives and related actions for each focus area/category.
• Conduct a Sustainability in Mount Prospect Survey and review findings
Village of Mount Prospect
Incorporated in 1917, the Village of Mount Prospect (Population — 56,852) is located in Cook County
Illinois, 25 miles northwest of downtown Chicago and is a short drive north of O'Hare International Airport
and south of Chicago Executive Airport. The community was largely shaped by its rail line connection to
the City of Chicago, bisecting state highways and access to Interstate 90. The 1-90 interchange was
upgraded to a full interchange in 2017, providing western access to the community. Mount Prospect has
grown to boast a full range of business locations including Kensington Business Center, Randhurst Village
shopping center, a revitalized mixed-use downtown, convenient light industrial properties and 20,795
Occupied Housing Units (13,533 Single-family & 8,490 Multi -family).
Page 2 of 38
64
Regional Efforts:
The Village of Mount Prospect is not alone in its sustainability efforts. Beyond national and state level
actions, there are regional organizations and agencies planning and implementing initiatives to improve
sustainability in the region.
Metropolitan Mayors Caucus
The Metropolitan Mayors Caucus ("Caucus") is a membership organization providing a forum for
municipalities to collaborate on shared goals and to improve the quality of life for the region. The Caucus'
Environmental Initiatives have served as guidelines for the Village for nearly two decades. Clean Air Counts
was a collaborative effort by the Caucus, City of Chicago, federal and state environmental protection
agencies, and member municipalities. The goal was to encourage the use of fewer air pollutants in
everyday lives. In 2004, the Village received the Bronze level Clean Air Counts award.
The Caucus later developed an environmental initiative, known as the Greenest Region Compact (GRC),
to address the region's impact on its natural resources. At the February 12, 2008 Committee of the Whole
meeting, staff recommended and the Village Board subsequently adg.pted..q.rosall_u.tion endors.iing.:t_he._G_RC.
About eight years later the Caucus updated the GRC and released a GRC 2, which synthesized sustainable
goals already adopted by leading communities in the region that align with common regional, national
and global objectives. Village staff uses the GRC 2's companion Framework as a guide to identify Village
environmental strategies and implement actions. The Village Board��roved Resolution �.4 �.6 in 2.01.0
.1qd rsp_w . QRQ 2.
In the summer of 2021, the Caucus, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Global
Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy launched the Climate. Action Plan for..tlhne._Ch:ica o.lf1�giion. The
European Union, Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning and the Metropolitan Planning Council
supported the development of the plan. The Plan's Climate Mitigation Goal is "net zero greenhouse" and
the Climate Adaptation Goal is defined as persistent, equitable climate adaption. The 2050 targets are to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions at least 80% from 2005 levels and have cohesive, and resilient
communities. Mount Prospect endorsed the Caucus' 2021 Climate Action Plan on December 17, 2021.
The Caucus is now developing initiatives to help municipalities reach the plan's mitigation and adaption
targets.
Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning
The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) is the regional planning organization for Cook,
DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry and Will counties. CMAP has programs addressing regional
economy, livability planning, local planning, transportation planning and programming. CMAP
coordinated the development of .O..N...o 2.25.0, a long-range plan to help northeastern Illinois implement
strategies that address transportation, housing, economic development, open space, the environment
and other quality -of -life issues. The environment chapter has the following three goals:
• A region prepared for climate change
• Integrated approach to water resources
• Development practices that protect natural resources
Page 3 of 38
65
CMAP also has conducted regional greenhouse gas emissions inventories in 2010 and 2015. The results of
the 7.__15..._Ih.iica o Ifte ionall Glreelnhouse Gas Elmiissiioln Ilnvelntolr helped to establish climate mitigation
targets and strategy recommendation within the .0P01....:L..0.2-0..5 , plan. CMAP's Greenhouse Gas Emission
Inventory data also facilitated in the development of the I.iron_ t..e Agti.o._ln..1V_an_.:f—of LheCh.ic ga 6 egion.
Northwest Municipal Conference
The Northwest Municipal Conference (NWMC) is a regional council of government representing forty-two
municipalities spanning Cook, Du Page, Kane, Lake and McHenry Counties. NWMC has a Bicycle and
Pedestrian Committee that reviews issues and strategies for implementing successful bicycle and
pedestrian projects in the region. In addition, a Transportation Committee examines regional
transportation issues and is currently working on a regional multi -modal plan. A multi -modal plan reviews
all travel modes (passenger car, commercial trucks, buses, commuter rail, bikes, walking, etc.) within a
community and how they are connected to provide safe and efficient transportation.' During the summer
of 2021, NWMC staff attended various members' community events to share information about the Multi -
Modal Transportation Plan with residents and local stakeholders including Mount Prospect's 2021 Family
Bike Ride event.
Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago
The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) is a special-purpose district
responsible for treating wastewater and providing stormwater management for residents and businesses
throughout Cook County. MWRD's Watershed MaPlial:'emient Ordilnance (WMO) applies to all development
(sewer construction, drainage and detention, floodplain management, riparian environment protection,
soil erosion and sediment control, etc.) within Cook County. The WMO provides uniform stormwater
management regulations to prevent future commercial, municipal, and residential development and
redevelopment projects from exacerbating flooding and protects environmentally sensitive areas. In
addition, MWRD provides services like a subsidized rain barrels, free Exceptional Quality compost, and a
Restore the Canopy program that provides free oak tree saplings to Cook County residents.
The Caucus, CMAP, NWMC and MWRD are just several of the main regional entities promoting
sustainability.
Related Village Plans:
Several of the Village's long range planning documents address sustainability within the community.
A community's comprehensive plan guides planning and development policy and is generally updated
every ten years. As a community's primary planning document, it describes goals and objectives for
existing and future development, as well as outlines the steps necessary to achieve these goals. The
Village's Ccalm irehensiue Plan IVI.ou�.irn.t....Prpsp.g! G!, adopted November 7, 2017, has Guiding
Principles that draw parallels to the goals and actions of the sustainability plan.
• A livable built environment
• Mobility through an accessible, integrated, and resilient transportation system
1 Illinois FY 2020— 2025 Proposed Multimodal Multi -Year Improvement Program, Illinois Department of Transportation, October 2020.
httPs:Hidot. it l i nois.gov/Assets/uploads/fi les/Tra nsportation-System/Planning/2020-2025%2OM u lti moda l%2OM u lti-Yea r%2OProgra m.pdf
Page 4 of 38
66
• Providing for and protecting the needs of the community
• A community that improves the health, safety and welfare of its residents
• Responsible use of our environment that promotes resilience
• Economic vitality through support, innovation and collaboration
The on_ne..t.._S .21.h_._M_¢ u_n.t..lP_r sp Lj.: 2..2.0 Suh.:- r a..._Pla_n, adopted December 1, 2020 builds off the 2017
Comprehensive Plan by setting goals for south Mount Prospect: addressing future developments and
public improvements to enhance the quality of life for its residents, thriving economy for businesses, and
create a sense of identity and connection to the overall Village. Several sustainability themes emerged
from community engagement conducted during plan development including open spaces, bus
transportation, bicycles and sidewalks, cultural diversity and inclusion in the community, Higgins Creek
floodway, community gardens, and support residents in leading a healthy, safe and active lifestyle.
A bike plan is a recommended strategy of many sustainability plans and Mount Prospect developed one
in 2011. The Village Board approved the ,I.M.2..1n.1 Prospect Bicycle Plan in February 2012. The primary
objectives are:
• To develop a comprehensive biking and walking network consisting of marked on -street
bikeways, signed routes, and multi -use trails where possible;
• To develop a safety and education plan for the Village of Mount Prospect; and
• To understand the energy savings and greenhouse gas reduction of a fully implemented bicycle
network.
On February 11, 2020, staff presented a 1.B.ii_a g.lg._Plan Updat!g�_at._a Committee of the Whole meeting of the
Village Board. The update shared progress on proposed bike network improvements and communicated
the Village's commitment to continue employing the Plan as a guidance document in the development of
a robust multi -modal transportation network for Village residents and visitors.
In February 2020, the Villae Board adopted a Complete .Streets Polliicy. The policy was developed utilizing
model policies promulgated by CMAP and the National Complete Streets Coalition. Complete Streets are
streets that provides safe and convenient access for all users (pedestrians, bicycles, transit users, freight,
passenger vehicles, emergency vehicles, etc.). It establishes that the Village will consider incorporating
pedestrian, bicyclist, and other multi -model user improvements whenever a street is reconstructed or
substantially improved. The policy merely formalized the Village's long -held intent to plan, design, operate
and maintain streets in a manner that makes them accessible and safe for all users.
In addition, the Village of Mount Prospect was awarded a $489,600 grant to fund energy efficiency and
conservation projects as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The F9u. !i.p
Stra.tggy Plan appE ygd..A nrll 201.0 established an energy consumption baseline for both Village operations
and the community, as well as identifies energy efficiency and conservation goals.
Sustainability Awards:
Over the years, the Village has received a number of awards related to sustainability. These recognitions
reflect some of the ongoing efforts by staff to manage available resources, incorporate best practices and
plan for the future.
Page 5 of 38
67
Tree City USA Recognition
Every April, the Arbor Day Foundation recognizes communities for their efforts in proper tree
management and care. The Village has received the Tree City USA recognition for 38 consecutive years
due to Village's compliance with Tree City USA standards, which are based on an assurance of proficient
management of the urban forest. Mount Prospect also has received the Arbor Day Foundation's Growth
Award 15 times since its inception. The Growth ard......_recg�nizes....._ad_d_itio�_nall......_actiyii.tii_es, towards
environmental improvement and encourage higher levels of tree care and community engagement during
the calendar year.
SolSmart Gold
On March 17, 2022, the Village of Mount Prospect was designated "SolSmart Gold" for advancing solar
energy growth. SolSmart is a national designation program that recognizes communities that reduce local
barriers to solar energy. The program is led by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) and the
International City/County Management Association and is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy Solar
Energy Technologies Office. In 2021, the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus worked in partnership with
SolSmart to recruit communities and help them meet the requirements for designation. Communities that
take sufficient action are designated either gold, silver, or bronze. This designation recognizes the Village
of Mount Prospect for taking bold steps to encourage solar energy growth and remove obstacles to solar
development. A SolSmart Gold designation is a signal that the Village of Mount Prospect is "open for solar
business.
2019 Water Saver Utility Award
The Public Works Department was awarded the 2019 Water Saver Utility Award from the American Water
Works Association. This award is an international recognition for the exceptional efforts made by the
department's crews operating, maintaining, and improving the Village -owned potable water distribution
system. In particular, the Village of Mount Prospect was recognized for sustained efforts to decrease
water loss and replacing aging infrastructure.
Sustainability Partnership Game Changer Award
The Public Works Department received the 2019 Sustainability Partnership Game Changer Award for its
myriad of solid waste and recycling programs that diverted 3S% of residents' waste stream from landfills
in 2018. The award was shared with the Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County (SWANCC), and
recognizes the Village and SWANCC for their efforts in sustainability and recycling. The National Waste &
Recycling Association recognize organizations and individuals who have made significant impact in the
waste and recycling industry.
Illinois Sustainability Award
In 2018, the Public Works Department received an Illinois Sustainability Award from University of Illinois
Sustainable Technology Center (ITSC) for their efforts in waste reduction. The adoption of an organics
recycling program and being the third municipality in the Chicago metro area to implement curbside
textile recycling contributed to the Village receiving the award. Public Works also offers drop-off recycling
options for batteries, light bulbs, plastic bags/wraps, pharmaceuticals, mercury thermometers,
thermostats and wall switches, sharps, holiday lights, and weekly electronic recycling drop-off times
between April and October. In addition, the Village has had drop-off household hazardous collection days
Page 6 of 38
68
for residents since 2018. Moreover, curbside leaf collection, pumpkin recycling, Christmas tree collections
are more seasonal recycling opportunities for residents. The Public Works Department and SWANCC
shared the 2019 Sustainability Partnership Game Changer Award by the National Waste & Recycling
Association for these sustainability and recycling efforts.
2018 Excellence in Snow and Ice Control Award
2018 Excellence in Snow and Ice Control Award is a national recognition for the exceptional efforts made
by the Public Works crews each winter. The American Public Works Association established this award in
2008 to promote best practices in snow and ice removal, which includes minimizing environmental
impacts.
Sustainability Plan:
The Village Sustainability Plan has the following categories:
1) Climate & Atmosphere
2) Economic Development
3) Stationary Energy
4) Land
5) Leadership & Municipal Operations
6) Mobility
7) Sustainable Communities
8) Waste and Recycling
9) Water
Each category includes an explanation of the focus area and a list of initial Village of Mount Prospect
efforts. Future efforts will be addressed in Part II — Implementation Guide. The efforts and initiatives may
appear multiple times in different categories, as there is natural overlap of goals across some categories.
The Venn -diagram below provides an example of how the categories can overlap since initiatives listed in
the sets could also benefit multiple areas.
Page 7 of 38
69
Actions with a Green Region Compact Ou logo next to them are strategies stated in the Greenest Region
Compact Framework.
Terminology:
Sustainability is defined as the long-term viability of a community, set of social institutions, or societal
practice. It is understood as a form of intergenerational ethics in which the environmental and economic
actions taken by present persons do not diminish the opportunities of future persons to enjoy similar
levels of wealth, utility or welfare.' In 1987, the United Nations Brundtland Commission defined sustainability
as, "meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own
needs."3 The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency defines sustainability as, "Everything that we need for
our survival and well-being depends, either directly or indirectly, on our natural environment. To pursue
sustainability is to create and maintain the conditions under which humans and nature can exist in
productive harmony to support present and future generations."4
In this plan, sustainability is meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future
generations to meet their own needs. Sustainable practices support ecological, human and economic
health and vitality. Responses from the 2021 Sustainability in Mount Prospect Survey overwhelmingly
agree (94.49% or 120 out of 127) that this definition of sustainability matches their own definition.
z https://www.britannica.com/science/sustainability
3 Sustainability. United Nations. https://www.un.org/en/academic-impact/sustainability
4 Learn About Sustainability. US Environmental Protection Agency. https://www.epa.gov/sustainability/learn-about-sustainability
Page 8 of 38
70
The term is frequently used interchangeably with climate change; however, the scope of sustainability is
much broader than only addressing greenhouse gases, global warming and climate change.
Greenhouse Gases are chemical compounds that allow sunlight to reach the Earth's surface and absorb
infrared energy (heat) that is reradiated from the surface back into the atmosphere. There are natural and
man-made chemical compounds that trap heat in the lower atmosphere. The natural occurring
compounds are carbon dioxide, methane, water vapor, and nitrous oxide.' The synthetic chemicals
include chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) — first versions of refrigerants and aerosol propellants,
hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) — also refrigerants and aerosol propellants, perfluorocarbons (PFCs) — by
product of aluminum production and used in manufacturing of semiconductors, and sulfur hexafluoride
(SF6) — used in electric utilities transmission systems. 6 7 8
Global Warming is the long-term heating of Earth's climate system observed since the pre -industrial
period (between 1850 and 1900) due to human activities, primarily fossil fuel burning (such as coal, oil
and natural gas), which increases heat -trapping greenhouse gas levels in Earth's atmosphere.'
Climate change is a long-term change in the average weather patterns that have come to define Earth's
local, regional and global climates. These changes have a broad range of observed effects that are
synonymous with the term.10
1. Climate & Atmosphere
Overview
Climate & Atmosphere addresses greenhouse gasses and particle pollution from human activity resulting
in climate change and air pollution. These substances may reach concentrations in the air that cause
undesirable health, economic or aesthetic effects.11 In addition, the man-made compounds,
fluorocarbons, that damage the stratospheric ozone layer that shields earth from ultraviolet rays
generated from the sun are also included in this category.1z
Human activities have reintroduced previously sequestered greenhouse gases into the atmosphere
through anthropogenic activities such as fossil -fuel combustion and deforestation. Over time, the newly
released greenhouse gases have led to increases in global temperatures, creating climate instability
experienced through changing regional weather patterns (i.e. temperatures, flooding, drought, and
severe weather events).13
' https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/monitoring-references/faq/greenhouse-gases.php
6 (published in The Chapman & Hall Encyclopedia of Environmental Science, edited by David E. Alexander and Rhodes W. Fairbridge, pp pp.78-
80, Kluwer Academic, Boston, MA, 1999.) Elkins, James W., Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) https://gml.noaa.gov/hats/publictn/elkins/cfcs.html
7 Overview: Greenhouse Gases. US Environmental Protection Agency. https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/overview-greenhouse-gases
8 Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6) Basics. US Environmental Protection Agency. https://www.epa.gov/eps-partnership/sulfur-hexafluoride-sf6-basics
9 Overview: Weather, Global Warming and Climate Change. NASA's Global Climate Change. https:Hclimate.nasa.gov/resources/global-
wa rm i ng-vs-cl i mate -change/
10 Ibid
11 https://www.britannica.com/science/air-pollution
1z https://www.pca.state.mn.us/air/chlorofluorocarbons-cfcs-and-hydrofluorocarbons-hfc
13 https:Hclimate.nasa.gov/news/2918/the-atmosphere-keeping-a-weather-eye-on-earths-climate-instabilities/
Page 9 of 38
71
Fossil fuels are energy sources for transportation, electricity production, heating buildings and a variety
of appliances and tools. Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning's (CMAP) 2015 Chicago Regional
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory shows that approximately 69% of the region's greenhouse gases
emissions come from stationary energy, including electricity and natural gas consumption for homes and
businesses. While, the transportation sector accounts for 29% of the region's greenhouse gas emissions. 14
This Climate & Atmosphere category's focus is on transportation and aerosol sources of air pollution while
Stationary Energy, has its own section within this plan, addresses emission sources like electricity
generation and building.
The Climate & Atmosphere category's goals also address governments' roll in developing resilience to
climate change impacts as well as engaging in climate change mitigation and adaptation. Climate resiliency
is the ability to prepare for, respond and recover from severe weather events, floods, drought, extreme
cold and heat, or other potentially hazardous events related to a changing climate. Climate change
mitigation is taking action to limit future climate change (i.e. reducing greenhouse gas emissions) and
climate change adaptation means preparing for and adjusting to severe and potentially hazardous
weather events related to a changing climate. Climate resiliency, climate change mitigation and change
adaptation listed under this goal; however, they are also present in all Greenest Region Compact goals.
Greenest Region Compact's Climate Goals:
• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
• Maintain clean and healthful air
• Develop resiliency to climate change impacts
• Engage the community in climate change mitigation and adaption
The majority of transportation modes produce greenhouse gas emissions from their use. This spans
personal vehicles, public and freight transportation, by land, air or water.. In addition, there may be
related climate impacts from transportation including airplane condensation trails that act like natural
clouds, reflecting incoming sunlight (heat) back into space and trap radiating heat from earth posing an
additional global warming concern.17
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is a global issue; however, states and local governments may play a
role by setting their own goals. Illinois recently approved the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act that sets the
policy to move toward 100% clean energy by 2050. Regional planning organizations can also provide
leadership by setting goals for municipalities and agencies. For example, the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus
spearheaded the development of the Climate Action...._�!.I.a i..._f.o.r...:th2..._CI .iugggo Region, setting the goal to
reduce regional greenhouse gas emissions at least 80% from 2005 levels. As stated previously, Mount
Prospect endorsed the Caucus' 2021 Climate Action Plan on December 17, 2021. The Caucus is now
developing initiatives to help municipalities reach the plan's mitigation and adaption targets.
The Village of Mount Prospect has looked for ways to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions. One example
is the Village's comprehensive vehicle "fleet" evaluation and replacement policy. Proper maintenance
ensures that systems to reduce emissions and the engines themselves are operating as intended and not
polluting more than expected. While replacing vehicles at an optimum point in their life cycle (Le. cost to
maintenance vs resale value) allows the Village to reduce its emissions by updating to newer vehicles with
improved emission controls and greater gas mileage capabilities. In addition, the Village has revaluated
14 https://www.cmap.illinois.gov/onto205O/strategy-papers/ghg
17 https:Hclimate.mit.edu/explainers/aviation
Page 10 of 38
72
certain fleet vehicles to right size for their use and, in December 2014, engaged a public fleet consultant,
Mercury Associates, to conduct an alternative fuel study regarding the viability of utilizing alternative fuel
technologies. The analysis considered environmental benefits, operational efficacy, and financial cost of
each fuel technology with the goal of assessing the feasibility of introducing alternative fuel technologies
into the Village's fleet. The study was presented in July of 2015 and the analysis indicated that there were
not any opportunities for alternative fuel vehicles in the Village fleet that are both operationally and
financially feasible. Since 2015 more vehicle manufacturers are producing hybrid and fully electric
vehicles. The Village currently has three (3) hybrid vehicles in its fleet. In addition, the Village Board
approved a proposal from Mercury Associates to develop an electric vehicle transition plan on February
1, 2022. The new report analyzes how fully electric vehicles may be incorporated into the Village's fleet
and the environmental impacts of the electric vehicle platform.
Efforts the Village has made to develop resiliency to climate change impacts
The following list of efforts and actions support the goals for Climate & Atmosphere identified above:
• The Village's Vehicle Replacement Policy supports replacing vehicles with more fuel-
efficient/hybrid powered vehicles for Village operations when feasible
• 2015 Alternative Fuel Study and the 2022 Electric Vehicle Transition Plan of municipal fleet
vehicles
• Banned burning of landscape waste/leaves within incorporated Mount Prospect reduces air
pollution `m"
• The Village installed electric vehicle charging stations in the Emerson Street and Maple Street
Parking Decks to support individuals purchasing electric vehicles.
• Established landscaping requirements for developments
• Established maximum permitted lot coverage percentages
• Staff inventoried Village parkway trees to track the condition and maintenance they receive
• Received Tree City USA designation, 38 years running, demonstrates the Village's commitment
to a thriving urban forest
• Public Works annual Tree Planting Program work towards planting the same or more than the
number of trees removed during a year so future generations can enjoy the benefits tree lined
streets.
• The Urban Forest Management Plan (update) in 2013 documents the Village of Mount Prospect,
Forestry/Grounds Division parkway tree management program and provide guidance for
planning into the future.
2. Economic Development
Overview
Economic Development aims to generate local access to services, products, and employment beneficial
to individuals and the community overall. A community with vibrant and diverse economic activity would
be able to address individual challenges and provide opportunities for communities to become more
resilient.18 There is a balance between sustaining long-term economic growth and direct or indirect
" https://www.cnt.org/sustainable-economic-development
Page 11 of 38
73
impacts to the environment. Businesses and municipalities play supporting roles in a community's
economic development efforts.
As environmental, climate change and corporate social responsibility concerns have grown among
consumers' priorities, many businesses started to mitigate negative impacts from product production and
service delivery. Green innovations and new technologies create opportunities to reduce environmental
impacts of existing operations as well as new employment prospects. New industries carry along the
potential for positively changing socio -economical aspects of a community. A municipality may encourage
green innovation and local businesses through recognizing those who practice sustainability. In addition,
a municipality reviews proposed businesses and developments for impacts to public health, safety and
welfare of the community.
A strong local economy assists in advancing climate resiliency, mitigation and adaptation through private
investment into properties and business operations. For example, businesses with sufficient positive cash
flow may have the capital and interest to make their operations more energy efficient, switch from
internal combustion engine to hybrid or electric fleet vehicles, or reduce other negative environmental
impacts. Businesses also need to prepare to adapt to ensure continuity when faced with severe weather
events and risks stemming from climate change affecting their operations. Plus, a strong local economy
helps to fund municipal operations and projects (i.e. storm water improvements, installing pedestrian
crossings, annual parkway tree planting, etc.) that help create a more sustainable community overall.
However, probably the most important aspect is that a strong local economy provides residents
opportunities and access to employment and resources facilitating investment and reinvestment
community -wide.
Greenest Region Compact's Economic Development Goals:
• Promote innovation and a competitive workforce
• Cultivate local and sustainable development, jobs, and businesses
• Continue to be a business friendly community expand the sales tax base (VOMP)
• Support and help facilitate investment and reinvestment in the community (VOMP)
Mount Prospect has a diverse mix of economic activity including retail, food service, health care,
technology and light industrial sectors. The activity is distributed throughout the municipal boundaries.
The Rand Road Corridor is capped with Randhurst Village on the northwest, Mt. Prospect Plaza on the
southeast and the 300 acre Kensington Business Center situated in-between. The Northwest Highway
corridor is another stretch of commercial activity that spans the center of the Community with Downtown
Mount Prospect at the midpoint. South Mount Prospect has a variety of commercial and light industrial
activity along Golf Rd, Busse Rd, Elmhurst Rd, Algonquin Rd, and Oakton St.
The Village's If xp!.iris_ Irnc..e Q_un.t...I.11aspect website and ,fMount..l{�.iro pf�k.._ In re.pr n_ uuir ....Illgii:G.il ..iv are two
examples of promoting local shopping and businesses. In addition, the Mount Prospect Chamber of
Commerce and Downtown Merchants Association Mount Prospect are organizations helping promote
local goods and services.
The following list of efforts and actions support the goals for Economic Development identified above:
• The Village established an Economic Development Commission (EDC) in 1993. The main
functions include business retention, business attraction, and marketing of the Village.
Page 12 of 38
74
• Collaboration with the Mount Prospect Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Merchants
Association for economic development, business recruitment and retention services
• Continued support of the Lions Club Farmers Markets and car shows. Why
• Continued support of local entrepreneurs that utilize the informal economy and move them
toward standard business formation through Mount Prospect Entrepreneur Initiative
(MPEI). MPEI is a platform for resources, events, and help for any entrepreneur looking to
start a business
• Provide prospective property owners and businesses with an interactive available properties
map available on the Village website
• Provide residents with an interactive restaurant map
• Offer support and endorsement of a class 6b and class 7c Cook County Classification, which
reduces property tax bills for qualifying properties
• Participate and adopt tax increment financing districts (TIF) to help facilitate new
development and growth in a specified area or corridor
• Offer matching grants to qualifying retail/restaurant operations in the Village for interior
and/or exterior improvements of an existing property
• Provided $820,000 in COVID-19 grants to assist businesses negatively affected by the
COVID-19 Pandemic
• Attend local and national trade shows to attract new businesses while showcasing Mount
Prospect as a destination
• Participate in sales tax sharing agreements for those businesses that have annual sales over
$75 million
• In collaboration with the Mount Prospect Chamber of Commerce, the Village organizes
ribbon cuttings to promote and welcome new businesses into the community
• Offers new and prospective businesses a business resource guide which guides businesses
how to open a business in the Village
• Promotes new businesses and new opportunities or vacant storefronts on Village operated
social media pages, including Facebook, Linkedln, and Instagram
• The Village devotes significant staff time toward streamlining and simplifying the building
permit process by offering bi-weekly team meetings, pre -submittal meetings, and an online
building permit portal to quickly and efficiently answer questions to the business community
3. Stationary Energy
Overview
Stationary Energy addresses electricity use, and heating and cooling of buildings. These sources are
significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. Electricity production represents 25 percent of total
U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions in 2019.19 Natural gas for furnaces, stoves, water heaters as well as
electricity generation poses its own environmental concerns. Burning natural gas for energy is more
efficient and pollutes less than most other fossil fuels; however, it consists of mostly methane, which has
a stronger greenhouse gas effect than carbon dioxide.20 Methane, the primary component of natural gas,
19 https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/sources-greenhouse-gas-emissions
20 https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/natural-gas/natural-gas-and-the-environment.php
Page 13 of 38
75
is more than 2S times as potent as a greenhouse gas compared to carbon dioxide.ZZ Methane is converted
to carbon dioxide in the combustion process. However, the uncaptured and leaked methane from the
production, storage/transmission, processing and distribution (i.e. mains, meters, and appliances) are
responsible for emissions. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that in 2018, methane
emissions from natural gas, petroleum systems and from abandoned oil and natural gas wells were the
source of about 29% of total U.S. methane emissions and about 3% of total U.S. greenhouse gas
emission S23.
Energy suppliers in Illinois are required to provide quarterly Environmental Disclosure Filings to the Illinois
Commerce Commission. Environmental Disclosure Filings are a breakdown of Known sources of electricity
supplied in Illinois. The table and graphs below show the sources of electricity supplied for the 12 months
ending June 30, 2022. In general, ComEd is the default energy supplier and distributor for northern Illinois
and Ameren is the same for central and southern Illinois. There are alternative retail electric suppliers that
customers may choose as their energy supplier and some of these suppliers offer 100 percent green or
clean energy options. Energy suppliers purchase the energy they deliver from regional energy generators.
The result is many energy suppliers have very similar breakdown of power types (i.e. natural gas, coal,
nuclear, etc.). There are energy suppliers that offer 100 percent green energy contracts; however, these
offers usually involve renewable energy certificates (REC). A REC is a market-based accounting of when
one megawatt -hour (MWh) of renewable energy electricity is generated and delivered to the electric
grid24. Once the energy is delivered into the grid, then the REC can be sold to energy suppliers. This means
that the electricity arriving to a building may be from a fossil fuel power plant even though the energy is
being billed as being green. The upside is a green energy contract ultimately supports greater clean power
generation.
Environmental Disclosure Statements
Sources of Electricity Supplied for the 12
months ending June 30, 2022
ComEd Ameren
Biomass power
0%
0%
Coal-fired power
21%
36%
Natural gas-fired power
39%
31%
Hydro power
1%
2%
Nuclear power
33%
15%
Oil -fired power
0%
1%
Solar Power
1%
0%
Wind Power
4%
15%
Other resources
1%
0%
Total
100%
100%
22 https://www.epa.gov/gmi/importance-methane
23 Based on carbon -dioxide equivalents. Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Inventory of U.S.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks: 1990-2018, Table ES -2, April 2020
24 https://www.epa.gov/green-power-marl<ets/renewable-energy-certificates-recs
Page 14 of 38
76
33%
1% 4% 1%
15%
a
31%
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The greenhouse gas emissions from electricity production will decrease with electricity generation
transitioning more towards renewables and nuclear sources. This in turn decreases an individual's carbon
footprint when using electric appliances. Controlling emissions from energy consumption and production
is a critical step towards a more sustainable future. An individual may reduce their energy consumption
by increasing their energy efficiency. This can include keeping the thermostat a few degrees higher in
summer and lower in the winter, switching to LED lights, and turning off and unplugging appliances when
they are not in use are just a few options. In addition, ComEd customers have opportunities to reduce
energy usage with a free energy assessment by ComEd that includes free and discounted products. A
similar service is offered by Nicor Gas for their customers.
Greenest Region Compact's Energy Goals
• Use energy for building and facilities efficiently
• Advance renewable energy
• Reduce energy consumption
• Enact policies that support clean energy
• Engage the community in clean energy practices
In 2007, the Center for Neighborhood Technology produced an Energy and Emissions Profile for Mount
Prospect. The Profile was part of a larger Municipal Energy Profile Project funded by the Illinois Clean
Energy Community Foundation to provide emissions profiles to all 270+ municipalities in the 7 -county
Chicago metropolitan region. Below is the breakdown of Mount Prospect's emissions by sector included
in the Profile. The Profile is attached as appendix TBD.
Mount Prospect's Emissions by Sector, 2007
Page 15 of 38
77
Sector
MMT CCI),,_____
Electricity
---------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0.305
Natural Gas
0.156
.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Transportation
0.2.23
SoW Waste
0.03$
Waste Water
0.007
Product use
0.028
TOTAL
0.756
Electricity
401%
As the table and graph show, electricity and natural gas in 2007 represents 61% of the community's
emissions. This information may serve as a benchmark to evaluate progress when a similar analysis is a
conducted in the future.
The 2010 Energy Strategy Plan provides details on energy consumption within each source. Village
facilities accounted for the largest electricity use. Facilities included Village Hall, the Public Works facility,
the old Public Safety Building/Fire Station 13 (NW corner of Northwest Highway and Maple St.) and the
outlying fire stations. This assessment may serve as a possible benchmark to measure the Village's
progress going forward. The following table is from the 2010 Energy Strategy Plan and shows energy
consumption by source.
Electricity 66,658,000,000 65%
Natural Gas 12,968,000,000 13%
Vehicle Fuel 23,010,000,000 22%
Total 102,636,000,000 100%
Solar and wind energy help cities reduce greenhouse gas emissions from energy generation and are
climate mitigation tools. Another approach is making cities more energy efficient by updating buildings
codes to be more energy efficient and using energy efficiency appliances including switching to LED lights.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 appropriated funds through the Energy Efficiency
and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program to governmental entities to develop and implement
projects to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy use and fossil fuel emissions in their
communities. In 201._0,...tlhne__Vil.lage develloped an IE::ner�y._Stir . egX.._Ii.la_rr, attached as Appendix TBD, which
identified short and long-term energy efficiency goals and activities, and established general
implementation guidance. Some outcomes from the EECBG grant funding and the Energy Strategy Plan
are that the Village replaced conventional streetlights with LEDS along Prospect Ave, Kensington Rd and
Elmhurst Rd, Euclid Ave and Kensington Rd surrounding Randhurst Village, developed a Village Bike Plan,
installed bike racks around downtown and Kensington Business Center, funded Home Weatherization
Grants, and provided public education and outreach.
Also in 2009, the Village Code was amended to allow for environmentally sensitive development
techniques with specific provisions for wind and solar energy conversion systems. Properties in all zoning
Page 16 of 38
78
districts were provided with the opportunity to add rooftop mounted photovoltaics and wind energy
conversion systems to their properties. Ground mounted solar and wind energy conversion systems were
allowed in all zoning districts except for residential. The below table shows the number of residential solar
building permits over the past recent years.
Table: Residential Solar Building Permits (Status of
Closed, in Progress, or Under Review)
2018 27
2019 50
2020 40
2021 40
2022 46
In 2019 and 2020, Cook County, DuPage County, Kane County, and Will County partnered with the
Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA) and the Citizens Utility Board (CUB) to coordinate a solar
group buy across all four counties. The program offered residents and small businesses an opportunity to
benefit from a bulk group -purchase of solar panels. In addition, the installer was chosen through a bidding
process and vetted by the partnership. The Village promoted the program by hosting an informational
Solar Power Hours and sharing program information on the Village's website and social media. The
following summarizes the regional impact of this group effort:
• 1,727 people attended Solar Power Hours
• 205 properties added solar
• 1474 kilowatts of solar have been installed
• Each year, the PV systems installed through the program will avoid greenhouse gas emissions
equivalent to 2,962,653 lbs of CO2.25
The following list of efforts and actions support the goals for Stationary Energy that the Village has
undertook:
• The Village Board Adopted 2015 IL Energy Conservation Code "
• Staff participated in International Energy Conservation Code amendments
• Village Code permits solar and wind energy solutions to be installed on residential and
commercial properties '''°'
• Community Development Block Grant offers eligible homeowners Single Family Rehabilitation
Loan Program to replace old furnaces, water heaters and increase energy efficiency.
• Launched a Community Solar Program
• Implemented energy efficiency measures that have a longer-term payback
o Installed new HVAC equipment at Public Works replacing 30 year old technology.
o Various system updates/upgrades (i.e. pump/lift stations/VFD replacement)
• Implemented energy efficiency measures that have a short-term payback
o Occupancy sensors for lights in Village Buildings where applicable
o Improving energy efficiency with LED streetlights retrofits - ongoing
o Improved energy efficiency with LED lights in the Emerson Street Parking Deck
• Created an energy conservation related - SustaunabuVut r._ll ,sa_urces P.q& ,
...................................................... ..........................
25 https://www.growsolar.org/chicagoland/
Page 17 of 38
79
• Created a Solar Energy .
webpage- Ilrostlllliiin S¢a.11ir energy S.ys:tirn
...........
• ComEd Smart meters installed at Village Buildings
• The Village's Community Investment process provides long term planning for energy efficiency
equipment upgrades
• The Village's Human Services Department and Citizen Utility Board hosts a Utility Bill Clinic to
help residents lower their natural gas, electric and phone bills.
• SolSmart Gold Designee — awarded 2009. Roof top solar PV is permitted in all zoning districts
and the Building and Inspection Services Department committed to a 3 -day turnaround time to
process complete small solar PV project building permits.
4. Land
Overview
The Land category addresses environmental components like open space, trees, landscaping, in -fill and
transit -oriented development. Management of living and built environments in a conscientious manner
helps in maintaining stable conditions for people and wildlife to live comfortably. A community's green
spaces, trees, and sustainable land use techniques are climate resiliency tools as weather patterns change
due to climate change creating severe storms, flooding, and draughts. Many actions within the land
category provide mutualistic benefits to goals within other categories of this plan. For example, a medium-
sized oak tree can absorb 2,800 gallons of rainfall per year, which lessens the impact on stormwater
systems. While the shade it provides can reduce the impact of urban heat islands and support wildlife
that contribute to a healthy environment in their own unique ways. 26 Z' Planting new trees and maintain
the health and integrity of existing trees play a critical role for climate change mitigation. The Village's
logo, which includes a tree, is an expression of the Village's commitment to sustainability and particularly
to the urban forest.
The land on which the Chicago region developed has undergone a significant change over the past 200
years. When the first settlers came to what would later become Mount Prospect they found a wide-open
space covered in prairie grasses. The first settlers cleared the land and established farms. After the railroad
line was built, farmers began shifting from subsistence farming to commercial farming, specializing in dairy
cows, onions, mushrooms, and sugar beets. Fast -forward nearly 175 years and very little remains from
those early years, as the Village is mostly developed land. Mount Prospect has just over 500 acres of open
space (CMAP footnote). Park and Forest Preserve Districts are stewards of most the natural, open and
park spaces in Cook County. The Mt. Prospect Park District manages 454 acres consisting of 32 parks and
recreational facilities. River Trails Park District manages 139 acres across Mount Prospect and Prospect
Heights. In addition, Arlington Heights, Prospect Heights and Des Plaines Park Districts serve portions of
" https:Hlas.depaul.edu/centers-and-institutes/chaddick-institute-for-metropolitan-development/research-and-
publications/Documents/2017%201ML%20Journal/Increasing%20the%20Benefits%20from%20Urban%20Trees%20
while%20Minimizing%2OCosts%20-%20L.%2ODarling%20M.%2OCustic%20C.%20S.%2OSmith.pdf
Z' The Role of Our Urban Forest in the Chicago Metropolitan Region's Future
https://www.cmap.illinois.gov/documents/10180/61012/U rban-forestry-strategy_11-08-2010.pdf/79f31e83-
dd2d-4bd7-ad4b-a3969bbf5f20
Page 18 of 38
80
Mount Prospect. Just outside the borders of Mount Prospect, the Cook County Forest Preserve District
manages open space accompanying the Des Plaines River and the 3,558 acre Ned Brown Preserve
commonly known as Busse Woods.
General Land Use , 2015 — CMAP Mount Prospect
Community Data Snapshot August 2021 Release
Land Use Type
Acres
Percent
Single -Family Residential
2,909.6
43.8
Multi -Family Residential
380.6
5.7
Commercial
567.1
8.5
Industrial
464.9
7.0
Institutional
282.9
4.3
Mixed Use
11.3
0.2
Transportation and Other
1,467.5
22.1
Agricultural
0.0
0.0
Open Space
512.5
7.7
Vacant
47.0
0.7
TOTAL
6,643.4
100
Mount Prospect has very few remaining
undeveloped land opportunities and future
growth will need to be accommodated within
the community areas that can support change.
The table provides a snapshot of the Land Uses
in the Village. The limited amount of vacant land
creates challenges for future new public parks
and green spaces, as these amenities would
likely need to be built on privately owned and
developed land. Encouraging future
developments and improvements to incorporate
green spaces and other environmental friendly
concepts into their designs would be one
alternative method for enhancing Mount
Prospect's sustainability.
Greenest Region Compact's Land Goals
• Encourage strategic development that upholds sustainability principles
• Conserve restore and enhance natural features and ecosystems
• Support networks of accessible, well -used and enjoyable parks
• Sustain a robust urban forest canopy
• Sustain beautiful landscapes that provide ecosystem services
• Achieve greater livability through sustainable land use and housing policies
• Cultivate a conservation ethic in the community
The Village manages the grounds around Village Buildings and over 40 acres of green space throughout
Mount Prospect, with 15 dedicated locations for annual flower displays. Yearly, the Village plants over
20,000 plants to fill the approximate 12,000 square feet of annual beds. Over 40 different types of annuals
are selected in various patterns for the displays. The Village of Mount Prospect committed to the Mayor's
Monarch Pledge and maintains six (6) butterfly gardens also known as Monarch Waystations. These
gardens provide habitat areas for Monarch Butterfly to aid them on their annual migration. Staff has
doubled efforts in most of these gardens to include plant varieties that are beneficial to a variety species
of butterflies, bees, and many types of birds.
In addition, the Village Code's landscape requirements are to promote, protect and preserve the general
health and safety of the people of the community and, as part of the general welfare, ensure aesthetic
compatibility among land uses within the community. It is also the purpose of these regulations to
safeguard the environmental quality and aesthetic character of the community by limiting the removal
and ensuring replacement of trees upon private property within the Village. The Village also requires
replacement trees on developments where trees are removed for a new building or structure. Lot
coverage and landscape requirements are two mechanisms that help the community preserve green
space on private property.
Page 19 of 38
81
In 2021, the Village commemorated its receipt of the Tree City USA Award from the Arbor Day foundation
for the 38th consecutive year. The Village of Mount Prospect through the Public Works Forestry and
Grounds Division is responsible for the maintenance of more than 24,000 parkway trees. The Village
updated its,Urba�u..._Fpres:�.._p4JIa_�a.gement Man in 201.3 to document the events during the 20 years since
1993 when the plan was first developed. An Urban Forest Management Plan provides detailed
information, recommendations, and resources needed to manage public trees effectively and proactively.
28
The following list of efforts and actions support the goals for Land identified above:
• 2014 Wood Reclamation Project
• Tree removal contractor uses debris for high end mulch
• Public Works offers free mulch to residents
• Support transit oriented development'"
0 20W Apartments
o Maple Street Lofts
0 10 N. Main Apartments
o Prospect Place
o HQ Residences
• Redevelop underutilized or contaminated properties
0 10 N. Main Apartments
o Prospect Place
o Old gas station at the corner of Route 62/Algonquin Rd. & Route 83 / Elmhurst Rd.
• Fire Station 14 was built in 2008 as a LEED certified building "°
• Purchased land, designed and constructed Busse Pocket Park""'
• Parkway trees are inventoried, assessed and managed through Public Works Maintenance
Management System u"'
• 2013 Urban Forest Management Plan''
• Existing tree planting program '
• Public Works tree inspections and strategic tree removal
• 5 year tree trimming cycle and Public Works inspections'""
• Tree City USA Award 38 consecutive years running'
• Manage traditional, cultivated landscapes sustainability - Fertilizers and Pest Management
• Public Works Landscape Master Plan Manual ''
• Maintain beautiful landscapes and streetscapes to enhance gateways, business districts and
important public spaces - Railroad Right of Way, Prospect Ave, North West Highway Streetscape,
Kensington Business Center, Mt. Prospect and Central Roads, Village Hall, Public Safety and
Public Works. "�"'
• Annual Arbor Day Event with tree planting''
• Public Works Annual Open House used as an opportunity to educate the community about the
value of trees, native and sustainable landscaping '
• Foster healthy community relationships through the use of open space - Busse Pocket Park, Park
District initiatives
28 https://www2.apwa.net/Documents/About/CoopAgreements/UrbanForestry/UrbanForestry-4.pdf
Page 20 of 38
82
• Creek bank stabilization with bio -engineering
• The Village Code, especially Chapter 14 Zoning, includes use of lot coverage limitations as a tool
to preserve open space on private property.
5. Leadership + Municipal Operations
Overview
Most individuals' interactions with government come at the local level: city government, school and park
districts, and county government. Some of the primary roles of local government are public safety, solid
waste management, conveyance of drinking, storm and sewer water, and transportation infrastructure.
This wide variety of critical services provide opportunities for local governments to lead and implement
sound solutions that advance all aspects of sustainability. Local governments also provide emergency
response to the community impacted by severe weather events and implement solutions for the effects
of climate change affecting residents, businesses, and customers. At the core, this all relates to the
Strategic Plan Goal of "Effective Village Government: Financially Sound, Providing Exceptional Service".
The Village has implemented numerous sustainability actions that are practical and financially sound.
Sometimes it is as easy as responding to technological trends like replacing paper in favor for electronic
documents or as challenging as pursuing a stormwater project requiring multi -jurisdiction approval and
grant funding to complete. Some sustainability initiatives can be completed through the efforts of Village
staff and contractors; however, greater benefits may be realized through a multi -jurisdictional approach
and participating in Regional Climate Collaboratives. Climate -related hazards extend beyond municipal
boundaries, making regional collaboratives and goals critical to addressing sustainability.29 For example,
stormwater management should involve a watershed -wide perspective and greenhouse gas emission
reduction targets should be established at a regional level.
Sustainability Goals
• Work collaboratively towards a sustainable region
• Lead by demonstrating values and practices
• Integrate sustainability into all municipal operations
• Operate a safe, clean and efficient fleet
• Collect and manage data to advance sustainability
The Village endorsing the Greenest Region Compact in 2016 and the 2021 Climate Action Plan for the
Chicago Region are two examples of the Village working collaboratively towards a sustainable region. The
Village's stormwater improvements like Levee 37 and the drainage systems installed at Burning Bush and
Aspen Trails Parks are more examples of the Village working collaboratively towards a sustainable region.
These stormwater projects included coordinating with US Army Corps of Engineers, Illinois Department of
Natural Resources, Wheeling and Prospect Heights.
A few examples of the Village leading through values and practices include the implementation of textile
recycling and hosting annual household hazardous waste collection events. Without these services,
particularly for household hazardous waste, residents would not have easy access to recycling these
materials and they would remain in homes as potential hazards or eventually be improperly disposed.
29 https:Hus.sustain.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Regional-Collaboratives-for-Climate-Change-FINAL.pdf
Page 21 of 38
83
Another way the Village continues to lessen its impact on the environment is through transitioning away
from paper forms and records. Processes and files across all departments have been migrating to
electronic methods over the years. The Village's Building and Inspection Service Department went live
with an online building permitting software in 2020. Staff is estimating the online permit process will save
45 tress in paper each year.
The Police Department has issued over 13,000 citations since their switch to e -citation. While a paper
copy is still provided to the motorist, the significant savings comes from eliminating the multi -paper
carbonless tickets. Finance has recently launched a new e -billing software for water/sewer/refuse bills,
but has accept online and auto -debit utility bill payments for many years prior. The Finance Department,
who has accepted online and auto -debit utility bill payments for many years, has recently launched a new
e -billing software for water/sewer/refuse bills.
One example of collecting data to advance sustainability is implementing automated water meter reading
technology. The equipment allows the Village to obtain meter readings without entering a property or
having a resident submit a monthly read. For the resident, it provides accurate bills on actual
consumptions while giving Village staff the opportunity to notify residents of possible water leaks in the
residence (faucets, toilets, humidifiers, etc.).
The following list of efforts and actions support the goals for Leadership + Municipal Operations identified
above:
• Metropolitan Mayors Caucus Environment Committee & Energy Subcommittee members
• Endorsed Greenest Region Compact in 2008
• Endorsed Greenest Region Compact 2 in 2016
• Endorsed 2021 Climate Action Plan for the Chicago Region 2021
• Signatory to the Mayors Monarch Pledge and the installation of five monarch waystations to
date (one (1) medium 200-499 sq. ft. and four (4) x -large 1,000 — 4,999 sq. ft.)
• Launch a Community Solar program with the help of Metropolitan Mayors Caucus and the
Power Bureau
• Village hosts an annual Arbor Day celebration where the school involved plants a tree.
• Designated SolSmart community (in progress)
• Tree City USA Recognition
• 2019 Water Saver Utility Award
• Sustainability Partnership Game Changer Award
• Village received the Bronze level Clean Air Counts award in 2004
• Illinois Sustainability Award
• 2018 Excellence in Snow and Ice Control Award
• Hazardous household waste, textiles, organics (organics material including fruits, vegetables,
meat, etc) recycling programs
• Installed EV charging stations in the Emerson Street and the Maple Street Parking Decks
• The Village's fleet includes three hybrid vehicles as of 12/31/2021.
Page 22 of 38
84
6. Mobility:
Overview
Movement of people and products are important factors for greenhouse gas emissions and livability of a
community. To date, automobiles have been a significant driving force shaping American communities.
The Interstate Highway System, state highways and local roads are the foundation for the successful
growth of many suburbs and exurbs. Suburbs along rail lines benefited from commuter and freight trains
to move people and goods. In addition, some metropolitan regions have a rapid transit system like the
Chicago Elevated "L" that serves Chicago and some of its surrounding suburbs. In addition, a network of
suburban bus routes along major thoroughfares provides a public transportation option for many
destinations only accessible by an automobile.
The graph below shows the moving 12 -Month Total Vehicle Miles Traveled from 1970 through October
2021. While the COVID-19 pandemic abruptly put the brakes on people traveling, history shows a
sustained gradual increase in vehicle miles traveled year over year. The Federal Highway Administration's
forecast to 2049 of vehicle miles traveled tells of a 0.6% annual increase of light-duty vehicles miles — light
duty vehicles including automobiles and light duty trucks used primarily for passenger travel. 30
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Traveling by vehicle is not always available or the best option for people. AAA's annual Your Driving Costs
study, most recently published (August 2021) estimates the cost a new vehicle is $9,666 per year.31 Traffic
congestion in the Chicago area ranks among the worst in the nation as drivers in Chicago lost 104 hours
to traffic congestion in 2021 despite being -27% to -37% below 2019 levels due to the COVID-19
pandemic.31
Traveling by public transit has its own hurdles for people to navigate due to first mile/last mile gaps and
long commutes. The first mile/last mile gaps is the extent to which people can access transit stations,
usually by walking. Furthermore, transit routes and locations of stations could mean a trip could take
31 h:o .ps./../..www.:: w . dot.gav/pa0o yiru.fora:l:iar/G::eb.l_es/vrn_I:/vrrul.;....:forecast..._surn.cfm
31 https:Hnewsroom.aaa.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/2021-YDC-Fact Sheet-FINAL-8-9-21.pdf
32 https:Hinrix.com/press-releases/2021-traffic-scorecard/
Page 23 of 38
85
multiple hours and buses .33 A 2017 article by Governing created the table below to compare the average
commute times between driving alone and taking public transportation using census data.34 For Chicago,
the average time to commute by driving was 29 minutes and taking public transportation was 49.5
minutes. The public transportation times do not include the time it takes to travel to and from the transit
station.
Average ComrTlUt Th mm : DIlmlMng vs PubhcTmansl'.) urvtation
1 ir'r'rs„= .boon (ot rurir <<tes � Fw r 25 rr r vrr,e.'r £” pub lr. ti fel i ,}"r:xe�trav all caC Cve&Prr; hojr Jakigest afar e,, of cvrff-rrrrr"ng,
A third and growing means of transportation is active transportation. Active transportation is any self-
propelled, human -powered mode of transportation, such as walking or bicycling.35 Public transportation
users also engage in active transportation by walking or biking to transit stations. In addition, electric bikes
and scooters are becoming more accessible and dependable with greater range making them a viable
alternative to motor vehicles and traditional bicycles. However, unsafe streets and not having supporting
infrastructure (i.e. sidewalk, bike racks, bus shelters, etc.) poses barriers for people who want or need to
use non -car modes of transportation .36
Design of transportation systems also must include people with disabilities or limited mobility may
experience obstacles in moving around their communities. The Federal Highway Administration's National
33 https://www.chicagotribune.com/business/transportation/ct-biz-bedford-parl<-last-mile-first-mile-transit-
getting-around-20191028-m4bdt5a62nagnl72ej3gjafara-story.html
34 https://www.governing.com/archive/gov-transit-driving-times.html
35https://www.cdc.gov/hea lthyplaces/tra nsportation/promote_strategy. htm%23:—:text=Active%20tra nsportation
%20is%20a ny%20seIf, such%20as%20wa I ki ng%20or%20bicycl i ng. &text=l m proving%20these%20elements%20cou Id
%20encou rage, or%20em pIoyees%20wa I ki ng%20to%20work.
36 https://www.transportation.gov/mission/health/active-transportation
Page 24 of 38
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A third and growing means of transportation is active transportation. Active transportation is any self-
propelled, human -powered mode of transportation, such as walking or bicycling.35 Public transportation
users also engage in active transportation by walking or biking to transit stations. In addition, electric bikes
and scooters are becoming more accessible and dependable with greater range making them a viable
alternative to motor vehicles and traditional bicycles. However, unsafe streets and not having supporting
infrastructure (i.e. sidewalk, bike racks, bus shelters, etc.) poses barriers for people who want or need to
use non -car modes of transportation .36
Design of transportation systems also must include people with disabilities or limited mobility may
experience obstacles in moving around their communities. The Federal Highway Administration's National
33 https://www.chicagotribune.com/business/transportation/ct-biz-bedford-parl<-last-mile-first-mile-transit-
getting-around-20191028-m4bdt5a62nagnl72ej3gjafara-story.html
34 https://www.governing.com/archive/gov-transit-driving-times.html
35https://www.cdc.gov/hea lthyplaces/tra nsportation/promote_strategy. htm%23:—:text=Active%20tra nsportation
%20is%20a ny%20seIf, such%20as%20wa I ki ng%20or%20bicycl i ng. &text=l m proving%20these%20elements%20cou Id
%20encou rage, or%20em pIoyees%20wa I ki ng%20to%20work.
36 https://www.transportation.gov/mission/health/active-transportation
Page 24 of 38
86
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A third and growing means of transportation is active transportation. Active transportation is any self-
propelled, human -powered mode of transportation, such as walking or bicycling.35 Public transportation
users also engage in active transportation by walking or biking to transit stations. In addition, electric bikes
and scooters are becoming more accessible and dependable with greater range making them a viable
alternative to motor vehicles and traditional bicycles. However, unsafe streets and not having supporting
infrastructure (i.e. sidewalk, bike racks, bus shelters, etc.) poses barriers for people who want or need to
use non -car modes of transportation .36
Design of transportation systems also must include people with disabilities or limited mobility may
experience obstacles in moving around their communities. The Federal Highway Administration's National
33 https://www.chicagotribune.com/business/transportation/ct-biz-bedford-parl<-last-mile-first-mile-transit-
getting-around-20191028-m4bdt5a62nagnl72ej3gjafara-story.html
34 https://www.governing.com/archive/gov-transit-driving-times.html
35https://www.cdc.gov/hea lthyplaces/tra nsportation/promote_strategy. htm%23:—:text=Active%20tra nsportation
%20is%20a ny%20seIf, such%20as%20wa I ki ng%20or%20bicycl i ng. &text=l m proving%20these%20elements%20cou Id
%20encou rage, or%20em pIoyees%20wa I ki ng%20to%20work.
36 https://www.transportation.gov/mission/health/active-transportation
Page 24 of 38
86
Household Travel survey data shows that 25.5 million Americans have travel -limiting disabilities.37 For the
Chicago region, 7% of people between the ages of 18 to 64, and 33% of those over the age of 65 have
disabilities as defined by the 2017 American Community Survey data (fgrtct).3s A national survey by
the National Aging and Disability Transportation Center found that among adults age 60 and older, one
third have a disability that limits physical activities, vision, or hearing, and 71% use medical equipment or
mobility aid S.31
The federal and state level Department of Transportations are responsible for implementing design
guidelines responsive to the American with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA also specifically requires public
entities with more than 50 employees that have responsibility for streets and sidewalks to conduct a Self -
Evaluation and create a Transition Plan that identifies the steps needed to bring the pedestrian
infrastructure under their authority into compliance. The Village of Mount Prospect is working with DLZ
Illinois Inc. to to conduct a Self -Evaluation and create a Transition Plan with a scheduled implementation
year of 2024.
Sustainability Goals
• Support safe and effective active transportation
• Maintain a diverse, safe and efficient transportation network
• Support efficient transportation that uses resources wisely
• Integrate sustainability into transportation policies, programs and regulations
• Promote public and sustainable transportation choices
Three (3) U.S. highways (US -12, US -14, US -45) and three (3) state highways (IL -58, IL -62, IL -83) run through
Mount Prospect and the Village maintains 136 miles of local roads. A full service interchange at the
municipality's southern boundary provides easy access to Interstate 90 and Chicago. Union Pacific
Railroad with Metra Commuter service and regional PACE bus routes, provide public transportation to the
area. 253 miles of public sidewalks and 15 miles of signed bike routes support active transportation within
the Village. The existing transportation infrastructure is a great starting point for enhancing mobility for
the future, which will focus on improving multi -modal transportation (e.g. public transportation, walking,
biking, etc.). However, the layout of the municipal boundaries present a challenge with being over eight
(8) miles to travel from the northeast to southwest corners of the community while it is about three (3)
to travel from the eastern to southern boundaries. In addition, the railroad and state highways, which
improve regional mobility, divides downtown and chills connections between neighborhoods as potential
obstacles for walking and biking.
Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), Cook County Department of Transportation (CCDOT), Union
Pacific Railroad and Regional Transit Authority own and/or operate transportation infrastructure within
Mount Prospect. Improving mobility around Mount Prospect frequently requires intergovernmental
collaboration that can also complicate what would otherwise seem as simple improvements. For example,
37 https://www.transportation.gov/accessibility
"Toward Universal Mobility: Charting a Path to Improve Transportation Accessibility, December 2019.
https://www.metroplanning.org/uploads/cros/documents/universal_mobility_report_dec2_pm.pdf
39 Transportation Needs and Assessment: Survey of Older Adults, People with Disabilities, and Caregivers,
December 2018 https://www.nadtc.org/wp-content/uploads/KRC-nadtc-Survey-Report-120718-FINAL_for-
web508.pdf
Page 25 of 38
87
adding a pedestrian crosswalk across Main Street/Route 83 requires IDOT approval and for the Village to
adhere to their design specifications adding to project costs like new vehicle turn restrictions at the
intersection of the proposed crosswalk. There are many times when intergovernmental collaboration is
beneficial for the community's mobility. Grant funding offsets cost to construct intersection
improvements or transportation agencies may initiate a transit infrastructure improvement
independently.
There are varieties of tools for improving the existing transportation network into a diverse, safe and
sustainable system such as Complete Streets Policy, Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning, Multimodal
Transportation planning, area specific studies, transit -oriented development, etc.
A Complete Streets Policy addresses elements like sidewalks, bicycle lanes, bus lanes, public
transportation, private motorists, commercial vehicles, pedestrian crossings, traffic calming measures and
streetscapes.42 The Village's Policy would be applied to all transportation improvements requiring street
reconstruction as an opportunity to create safer, more accessible streets for all users. The Complete
Streets approach will result in public health benefits and reducing greenhouse gas emissions from
transportation.
A bike plan includes recommendations regarding safety and encouragement programs, as well as
bicycling -related infrastructure (e.g. bike parking, on -street bike lanes, traffic calming strategies, etc.)
including a comprehensive bikeway network (, o_unt Prospect Bike Flan). The ,Nortlh est....M.unoil�i.�l
�aan.fere_n e_._a_d_oiDted a lite-ional Bike Plan in December 2020. The plan was developed with input from
member communities, including Mount Prospect, and identifies corridors of regional significance that
connect communities and destinations which were prioritized for improving bicycle infrastructure.
A Multimodal Transportation Plan is a comprehensive evaluation of all modal networks in an area and the
key land use destinations they connect. The plan would identify gaps or barriers in the physical
transportation networks but also in the socioeconomic conditions of the community. In addition, the Plan
provides actions to make streets safer for all users, particularly for pedestrians and bicycles. The
Nrtlhwest Munici all Confeoence ublished a Multimodal) iirans ortation Nan Mauch 2020 for their
membership area of over 350 square miles in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake and McHenry Counties.
Area specific studies are beneficial from transportation and economic development standpoints. These
studies begin with evaluating an area's existing conditions by collecting relevant data and input from the
community. Opportunities and recommendations for the area are provided to manage challenges and
support improvements. Mount Prospect's itondRaadCorridorStud and ConnectSouthMurt�Rgc
,. .i..__.._l._._.._....._
x,.2.40, are area specific studies with recommendations on improving mobility within the areas.
Prospect Il..on .rg Faroe Il�lans �..Studiie.$)
Transit -oriented development (TOD) locates moderate to high-density mixed-use (housing, office, retail)
construction and other amenities within a half -mile of public transportation options. Benefits of TOD
include improving public health by encouraging walking or biking, reduce greenhouse gas emissions
compared to driving, and provide household cost savings. 43
42 https://www.transportation.gov/mission/health/complete-streets
43https://www.rtachicago.org/sites/default/files/documents/plansandprograms/landusetod/TransitWorks_TODbr
ochure.pdf
Page 26 of 38
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The following list of efforts and actions support the goals for Mobility identified above:
• In 2011, the Village adopted the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program. The goals of the
program include enhancing neighborhood safety and livability by reducing excessive speeding
and traffic volumes on residential streets to program safety for bicycle and pedestrian travel
• Coordinates Village Bike Plan improvements with regional councils of government and
neighboring communities to work towards connected and continuous bike routes throughout
the region. "m""
• Conducts traffic studies to evaluate traffic flow and pedestrian access as needed throughout the
Village - multiple downtown intersections, Rand Rd./Kensington Rd./Rte. 83 intersection, Mt.
Prospect Rd./Central Rd./Rand Rd. intersection ""
• The Village Board approved a Complete Streets Policy in 2020 requiring a street design approach
to enable safe, convenient, and comfortable travel and access for all roadway users. " "
• MEW
• Completed Kensington Road Bike Path Rehabilitation. The project included repaving the path
and adding amenities such as lighting °" '
• The Village is responsible for the Metra Station building in downtown Mount Prospect and
commissioned a refresh in 2016 `"""°'"
• The Village is working to fill gaps in pedestrian networks by installing new sidewalks as part of
the annual Community Investment Plan
• Annually make street lighting improvements along major Village corridors and residential
streets to improve pedestrian and vehicle safety. "'
• Pedestrian crossing improvements intend to increase safety for pedestrians and bikes. The
Village has made improvements at Emerson St. and Central Rd., Linneman Rd. and Dempster
Ave. Additional improvements are planned at crossings along Central Rd.
• Installed electric vehicle charging station in Emerson Street Parking Deck and Maple Street
Parking Deck""
• Staff maintains a Public Transportation webpage on the Village's website to provide easy access
Metra, PACE Bus, Chicago Transit Authority and commuter parking information""
• Synchronize traffic signals to facilitate traffic movement including nighttime signal time changes
to reduce vehicle idling°"Miro
• Connect South Mount Prospect 2020 Sub -Area Plan update references and recommends several
transit options for future implementation including: coordinating with PACE to expand service,
expand sidewalk network, consider multi -use paths and enhance streetscape and signage.
• 2017 Comprehensive Plan encourages pedestrian and transit friendly developments, to seek
opportunities to improve access and provide safe passage for all modes of transportation.
• The Village approved a Bicycle Plan in February 2012. In 2016 a total of 15 miles of bike routes
were designated and signed within the Village in accordance with the Bicycle Plan. In 2022. This
project will add 14 miles of on -street bike routes were added to the existing bike route network
and complete the network as laid out in the Bicycle Plan.
Page 27 of 38
89
7. Sustainable Communities:
Overview
The Sustainable Communities category focuses on the community's health and wellness, and social
environment. This supports a variety of initiatives like social services, locally grown food, sustainability
award programs, and a welcoming and inclusive community character. The term sustainable communities
itself does not have a single definition. The Institute for Sustainable Communities defines a sustainable
community as one that manages its human, natural, and financial capital to meet current needs while
ensuring that adequate resources are available for future generation S.44
Plug the human services department
Demographics stats
Sustainability Goals
• Promote cultural vibrancy in the community
• Foster a culture of health, safety and wellness
• Increase access to sustainably grown local food
• Sustain community principles that are welcoming, inclusive and equitable
• Promote a sustainability for the community
• Ensure local policies and codes support sustainability
• Cultivate community values based on principles of sustainability
Promoting cultural vibrancy is an opportunity to look at community challenges in an inclusive manner to
advance local economic, physical, and social change. Creative placemaking is one method for promoting
inclusivity and it is a process where community members, artists, culture and arts organizations,
community developers, and other stakeholders use arts and cultural strategies to implement community -
led change.45 There is also an economic benefit to arts and cultural as Arts and Cultural Production account
for 4.3 percent, or $919.7 billion, of current -dollar gross domestic product, in 2019.46 Cultural amenities
are important selling points in attracting workforce talent.47
Other opportunities have emerged from the private sector as companies are seeking opportunities for
making positive social change since are increasingly being rated by their community involvement and
impact, ethics, social responsibility and their participation in cultural engagement and connection to the
community. Promoting cultural vibrancy fosters a better -connected community with greater potential to
find new solutions for improving the health of the community and the environment.
Fostering a culture of health, safety and wellness may be accomplished through a variety of means.
Reducing air and water pollution are ways to improve the health and well-being of a community. Mobility
and Land goals encourage biking and use of open space, which also improve the health and well-being of
44 https:Hsustain.org/about/what-is-a-sustainable-community/
" https://www.planning.org/knowledgebase/creativeplacemaking/
46 https://www.bea.gov/index.php/news/2021/arts-and-cultural-production-satellite-account-us-and-states
47 https://www.governing.com/archive/col-how-smaller-cities-attract-keep-millennials.html
Page 28 of 38
90
a community. The COVID-19 pandemic brought to light the impacts of social economics and built
environment on both physical and mental health.48 Fostering a culture of health, safety and wellness
includes nursing and social services that align with the mission of the Village's Human Services
Department as well as services provided by Wheeling and Elk Grove Townships.
Food production plays a role in greenhouse gas emissions and the health and wellness of a community.
Sustainability initiatives promote the production of local food with no or reduce applications of herbicides
and pesticides. Majority of agricultural greenhouse gas emissions comes from production and not
transportation of produce. Produce grown locally in a greenhouse heated by fossil fuels could very likely
have a higher greenhouse gas footprint than if the same produce was imported from a climate suited for
growing without a greenhouse.49 In addition, the production of paper and pulp for food packaging further
complicates the environmental impact. Food produced locally would generally utilize organic farming
methods, which emit less greenhouse gas emissions than conventional methods."
A component of a community's health and social environment are principles supporting a welcoming,
inclusive and equitable community. The Village places great importance of our cultural climate, such that
"Cultural Climate: Honoring, Heritage and Diversity" is a goal in the annual strategic plan. In addition, the
Village's Strategic Plan mission and core values embrace these principles:
"Mission of Mount Prospect Village Government is to ADVANCE OUR COMMUNITY'S COLLECTIVE
QUALITY OF LIFE AND POTENTIAL through ADAPTIVE LEADERSHIP and LEADING — EDGE SERVICE
DELIVERY.
CORE VALUES to respect; listen; be ethical, positive and optimistic; maintain a commitment to service;
and sound analysis, decision-making and consensus."
The following list of efforts and actions support the goals for Sustainable Communities identified above:
• The Village supports the Mount Prospect Historical Society goals of preserving and providing
educational opportunities through programs and events to share historical information related to
Mount Prospect
• Starting in 2019, the Celebration of Cultures event is an annual commemoration to honor the many
diverse populations that live side-by-side in Mount Prospect
• The Village offers Household Hazards Waste Collection events each year to make disposal of waste
that requires special treatment more readily available to residents when improper disposal can put
the community at risk
• The Village's Backyard Drainage Program is an effort to reduce recurring backyard flooding after any
significant rain event. Forty-nine (49) properties have rain gardens installed thus far out of seventy-
one (71) identified properties
• Public Works Alternative Fuel Study; right sizing municipal vehicles and replacing with more fuel
efficient vehicles helps align internal policies to support sustainability ""'Ipro
• Staff shares information on heating and cooling centers to help prepares the community at times of
severe weather
" https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1257572/
49 RCC Perspectives, No. 1, Think Global, Eat Local: Exploring Foodways (2015), pp. 19-24 (6 pages) — Rachel Shindelar
https://www.jstor.org/stable/26241302?seq=2ttmetadata_info tab_co me nts
so https:\www.nature.com\articles\s41467-019-12622-7
Page 29 of 38
91
• In 2022, the Human Services Department distributed 25 energy efficiency kits to qualifying families
in partnership with the UIC Energy Resources Center and Metropolitan Mayors Caucus
• The Community Development Block Grant CDBG Sidewalk Replacement Program aims to provide a
more convenient and safe pedestrian walkway by removing and replacing uneven and deteriorated
squares of the public sidewalk
• The Village Board approved an application for Community Development Block Grant funds to
construct a mini -soccer pitch at Euclid Elementary School.
• The Public Works Open House serves as an opportunity to share information related to sustainability
(e.g. recycling, tree care, clean water, storm water, etc.) with the community
• Lions Club Farmers Market supports local and healthy food sources, and remaining produce is
donated to the Village's Food Pantry which provides clients with access to fresh fruits and
vegetables.
• Human Services department receives a weekly bread donation that staff distributes to residents out
of the Village's Community Connections Center.
8. Waste and Recycling
Overview
Sustainable waste management is important as it addresses collecting, treating, and disposing of solid
material that has served its purpose or is no longer usefu1.51 Societies have been dealing with waste
throughout history and even prehistoric ages. Population, economic activity, and society's consumption
of resources and materials influence the production of waste and pollution.52 There are many different
types of wastes including, municipal solid waste, hazardous waste, construction and demolition debris,
and industrial non -hazardous waste.53 Municipal solid waste is everyday items like product packaging,
batteries, clothing, bottles and cans, food, newspaper, appliances, electronics and furniture. There are
several methods for managing waste but they are not without their own challenges.
In 2018, 50% of municipal solid waste ends up in a Iandfi11.54 Landfills were the third largest source of U.S.
anthropogenic methane emissions in 2019 per EPA's Inventory of U.S Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks
(1990-2019).55 Incineration with energy recovery represents 11.8% of municipal solid waste disposal. In
2019, 67 power plants burned 25 million tons of municipal solid waste and generated about 13 billion
kWh of electricity. Incineration generates a variety of air pollutants that have health impacts and
51 https://www.britannica.com/technology/solid-waste-management
sz https:Hcfpub.epa.gov/roe/indicator.cfm?i=53
s3 https://www.epa.gov/report-environment/wastes
sa EPA, Advancing Sustainable Materials Management: 2018 Fact Sheet. Assessing Trends in Materials Generation
and Management in the United States. December 2020. https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2021-
01/docu ments/2018_ff_fact_sheet_dec_2020_fn I_508.pdf
ss EPA, Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks 1990 — 2019.
https://www.epa.gov/sites/defa u It/fi les/2021-04/docu ments/us-ghg-i nventory-2021-mai n-
text.pdf?Versionld=yu89kg102gP754CdR8Qmyn4RRWc5iodZ
Page 30 of 38
92
contribute to climate change, smog and acidification.56 While recycling consisted of 32.1% of U.S.
municipal solid waste in 2018, it has its own challenges. Recycling is effective when there are markets for
recycled materials. For example, processing recycled plastic materials may cost more than using new
plastic." S8 Another challenge is it is difficult for consumers to understand what materials can be recycled
leading to recyclables in the trash and placing trash in the recycling. A relatively new policy approach to
improve recycling is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation. EPR holds product manufacturers
responsible for the total environmental impact from a product and its packaging including the cost of end -
of -life disposal.
Sustainability Goals
• Support sustainable material management
• Recycle materials across all sectors
• Divert waste from landfills
• Enact policies that cause sustainable material management
• Engage the community with respect to waste reduction and recycling
The Village of Mount Prospect has a comprehensive Solid Waste Management Program that promotes
waste reduction and resource recovery. The Village's residential solid waste contract with Republic
Services (expires 12/31/2027) provides services to both single-family residences (curbside collection),
multi -family (centralized refuse containers), and commercial properties. Residential waste is disposed of
at the Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County's (SWANCC) transfer station situated near the
intersection of Central Road and River Road in Glenview, Illinois pursuant to a use agreement starting
March 17, 1992, expiring December 31, 2031. SWANCC is a nonprofit intergovernmental agency
established in 1988 and has 23 member communities. The agency provides a variety of waste reduction
and recycling services. Batteries, compact fluorescent light bulbs, medication/sharps, mercury
thermometers recycling is available for residents through the Village's membership in SWANCC. Residents
may drop off these items at Public Works for convenience. Electronics are also recyclable through
SWANCC and the Village hosts drop-off days at Public Works from April through October. In addition, the
Village partners with Trex Company and Simple Recycling to provide the community opportunities to
recycle plastic bags and textiles. Moreover, the Village hosts hazardous household waste events for
residents to conveniently drop off potentially harmful materials banned from landfills, and stored in
residences. The four IEPA hosted permanent household hazardous waste disposal sites are located in
Naperville, City of Chicago — Goose Island, Rockford, and Gurnee none of which are convenient for Mount
Prospect residents.
Organic waste in landfills generates methane, a potent greenhouse gas, while composting food scraps and
other organics emits much less methane than landfill disposal. Composting provides a resource to replace
use of chemical fertilizers, carbon sequestration, and can be used to remediate contaminated soils.59 The
Village of Mount Prospect was among the first Chicago area towns to provide curbside collection of food
56 U.S. [::PA (201.6) "Air li::missions from Municipal Solid Waste Combustion Facilities
5' https://www.epa.gov/recyclingstrategy/us-recycling-system#CurrentChallenges
58 https://www.npr.org/2019/08/20/750864036/u-s-recycling-industry-is-struggling-to-figure-out-a-future-
without-china
59 https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-management-food/reducing-impact-wasted-food-feeding-soil-and-
composting
Page 31 of 38
93
scraps to households. In addition, the iCoV_V .g .._ d ....p o r1u_o.ts._ 0rvi..p�st_.pi. es, for single -family homes, if they
meet the minimum requirements (i.e. distance from property line, located in rear yard behind the
principle structure, not exceeding the maximum size of four (4) feet tall by four (4) wide by four (4) long).
The biggest challenge affecting recycling is contamination. The Village's website, annual Recycling Edition
newsletter and Public Works Open House all share information on how to recycle responsibly - by ensuring
all items are empty, clean and dry. One dirty item can contaminate thousands of pounds of materials.
The Village also partners with the Recycle Coach App to provide residents easy access to recycling
information like pick up schedules, recycling information, and detailed information on where and how to
recycle thousands of items.
The following list of efforts and actions support the goals for Waste & Recycling identified above:
• The Village's curbside recycling provides resource recovery for plastic, glass, metal cans, aluminum
foil, cardboard & paper, and eligible food and liquid containers for single family residents `"EN'
• The Village's organics recycling offers single family residents curbside pickup of landscape waste and
food scraps keeping these biodegradable materials out of landfills""'
• Annual Household Hazards Waste Collection events each year make disposal of waste that requires
special treatment more readily available to residents when improper disposal can put the
community at risk
• In addition to curbside recycling and organics programs, Mount Prospect residents have access to a
variety of recycling options for the following items, holiday lights, batteries, sharps, electronics,
document destruction, pumpkins, and more through partnership with Solid Waste Agency of
Northern Cook County and Republic Disposal ""
• In 2017, the Village Board approved an ordinance to remove the permit requirement for garage
sales. Garage sales support exchange of goods and services among residents. Plus, coordinating the
annual garage sale weekend event generates regional interest bring more potential shoppers to
individuals' garage sales "m"
• Wood chips from parkway trees removed by Public Works are available for residents to pick and use
in their yards for free =1110
• Village Code permits compost piles/bin with certain - size and placement restrictions
• Moving to electronic billing has reduced the Village's paper consumption in municipal operations
o Building permits may be submitted online Implemented electronic permitting which reduced
paper usage and expedited permit review
o Police Department went live with e -citations that reduce the paper involved in the citation =0
o Electronic Fire & EMS reports
o E -Billing Option for Utility Payments and Vehicle Stickers Purchases
o Transitioned Metra Parking permits from paper hang -tags to an electric process utilizing license
plate numbers and the Police's license plate reader system
• Businesses using fats, oils and greases are required to install and maintain interceptors to properly
dispose of waste that would otherwise enter the sewer systems "m"
• Staff works to provide education about correct recycling methods to prevent commingled and
containment recycling — Recycling Coach App, recycling information on the Village webpage, Public
Works Open House and social media channels, and other public events ""'
• The Village also offers recycling to multi -family buildings with centralized refuse containers
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9. Water
Overview
Water, one of the most important natural resources, is vital for all life.60 Its continuous movement in a
hydrological cycle ties together air, clouds, oceans, lakes, river, snowpack and glaciers. Civilizations have
repeatedly developed around rivers because it provides drinking water, a place to hunt, fish, grow crops,
and a means of transportation. In today's modern and globalized world, water still provides the same
benefits as it did 10,000 years ago; however, pollution from human progress has degraded its once pristine
quality. Trash and plasticfloat in oceans and is found along river banks, contaminates infiltrate into ground
water from improperly disposed waste and chemicals, and pollutants deposited on impervious surfaces
flow into waterways through storm water runoff.61 "The Clean Water Act regulates quality standards for
surface waters and discharges of pollutants into the water. The Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement of
1978, signed by the U.S and Canada required the EPA to establish water quality criteria for the Great Lakes
addressing 29 toxic pollutants. In addition to regulated pollutants, the EPA also monitors unregulated
contaminants in drinking water. This has allowed the EPA to monitor polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)
that are long lasting chemicals now present in the blood of people and animals all over the world with
possible links to harmful health effects. "
Where Water is Found and the Percentage?
Oceans
97.2%
Ice Caps/Glaciers
2.0%
Groundwater*
0.62%
Freshwater Lakes
0.009%
Inland seas/salt lakes
0.008%
Atmosphere
0.001%
Rivers
0.0001%
Tota 1
99.8381
*Some of this groundwater lies too far under the
earth's surface to be extracted at an affordable
cost. fool:ruol:e
A watershed is an area of land draining or "sheds" into a
specific waterbody (i.e. lake, river, stream, etc). Every
body of water has a watershed and everyone lives in a
watershed. A watershed consists of surface water and
groundwater, which are the major sources of drinking
water in the United States .64 The source of that water
typically is surface water from rivers, lakes, or
reservoirs, or groundwater, which is treated before
delivery to consumers. The remaining U.S.
population relies on private groundwater wells to
meet their household needs. 65
The depletion of surface water and ground water from
pumping it out faster than it can replenish over the long-term creates negative effects including
deterioration of water quality, reduction of water in streams and lakes, land subsidence, and increased
cost for the user. The effects of ground water depletion are present in the Chicago metropolitan area as
the United States Geological Survey states on their website, "Chicago has been using groundwater since
at least 1864 and groundwater has been the sole source of drinking water for about 8.2 million people in
the Great Lakes watershed. This long-term pumping has lowered groundwater levels by as much as 900
60 https:Hsitn.hms.harvard.edu/uncategorized/2019/biological-roles-of-water-why-is-water-necessary-for-life/
61 https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2015-08/documents/mgwc-gwcl.pdf
" https://www.pca.state.mn.us/sites/default/files/stormwater-r-weiss0608.pdf
63 https://www.epa.gov/pfas/pfas-explained
64 https://www.usgs.gov/special-topics/water-science-school/science/watersheds-and-drainage-basins
65 https://www.usgs.gov/mission-areas/water-resources/science/drinking-water-and-source-water-research
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feet."66 Droughts pose a serious threat to replenishing groundwater aquifers and surface water supplies
as rain and snowfall patterns change.
A community's fresh water sources may be from a lake, river or a well (ground water/aquifer). Water
systems are designed to filter out pollution and contaminates providing potable water to a town or
metropolitan region.
Once the fresh water is used, it leaves a home or business as sewage. The sewage may enter a septic field
or a sewer system to be treated. A sanitary reclamation plant receives and treats sanitary and wastewater
to breakdown the organic matter in the water into harmless byproducts before it is returned to the
environment.
Stormwater and flooding are another challenge for communities. Traditional development reduces
pervious land to absorb rainfall naturally, while, climate change effects historic weather patterns creating
greater potential for severe weather events. Stormwater sewers, swales, retention and detention ponds
are some infrastructure mitigation tools to manage stormwater.
Sustainability Goals
• Use and distribute water efficiently
• Protect and improve water quality
• Manage water system assets sustainably
• Optimize the use of natural and built systems to manage stormwater
• Enact policies to protect water resources
• Practice stewardship of water resources
• Engage the community in water stewardship
The Village of Mount Prospect's water supply comes from Lake Michigan, either through Village -owned
or Illinois American Water distribution systems. The Village's water distributor, the Northwest Suburban
Municipal Joint Action Water Agency (NSMJAWA) buys water from the City of Chicago. Illinois American
Water purchases water from City of Des Plaines, who purchases from City of Chicago and City of Evanston.
The Village has three types of sewers: storm, combined, and sanitary. Storm sewers and combined sewer
both transport rainwater; although, combined sewers also convey sanitary waste. Mount Prospect's
sewer and wastewater goes to water reclamation plants operated and owned by the Metropolitan Water
Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD).
Approximately, separate sanitary and stormwater sewers serve 66 percent of the Village. The stormwater
sewers drain into the local creeks. The clear rainwater that enters combined sewers flows with sewer
water to reclamation plants for treatment. After being treated the water returns to the environment by
discharging into area creeks or rivers.
Five waterways carry stormwater into, through and away from the Village of Mount Prospect: the Des
Plaines River, McDonalds Creek, Feehanville Ditch, Weller Creek and Higgins Creek. The creeks and ditches
drain into the Des Plaines River, which ultimately drains into the Gulf of Mexico. In 2004, the Illinois
General Assembly granted authority to the MWRD to manage stormwater for Cook County. Then in 2013,
" https://www.usgs.gov/special-topics/water-science-school/science/groundwater-decline-and-
depletion#overview
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the MWRD Board of Commissioners approved the Cook County Watershed Management Ordinance to
provide uniform stormwater management regulations for Cook County in order to prevent future
commercial, municipal, and residential development and redevelopment projects from exacerbating
flooding and to improve area water quality.
By bordering the Des Plaines River, the Village has experienced firsthand changes in stormwater events
from the 1980s to the present day. Army Corp of Engineers designed Levee 37 to prevent floodwater from
entering the Village using 1986-87 flooding data; however, rain event patterns changed enough by the
time of construction that recent flooding events necessitated further analysis and modification to the
Levee 37's pumping systems. Infrastructure improvements to alleviate stormwater and flooding are
actions of the Village mitigating climate change.
The following list of efforts and actions support the goals for Water identified above:
• Communities Water Consumption per capita °" '
• Conducted a water rate study to determine sustainable rate structure
• Water Main Replacement, Water Tank Rehabilitation and projects related to sustaining water
infrastructure "'
• Various Flood Control Projects — Grant awards to the Village.
o Levee 37
o Burning Bush
o Aspen Trails
o Isabella
o Storm and Combined Sewer inspection and maintenance program
• Neighborhood Drainage Improvements — Private Property Rain Gardens
• Replaced traditional water meters with Automated Meter Reading technology EMU
• Use of preventive devices during construction projections (i.e. catch basins, silt fences, street
sweeping) ""'
• Creek bank stabilization with bio -engineering (also under Land)
• Water loss audit & leak detection program
• Implemented computerized controls for salt and de-icing chemicals in vehicles for use during winter
storms to efficiently distribute salt and de-icing chemicals
• The Village maintains a Community Rating System (CRS) Class 6 Designation. Due to the staff's
floodplain management, the classification results in a 20% flood insurance premium discount for
property owners in the floodplain and a 10% discount for property owners outside the floodplain.
• Sprinkler/ water use regulations
Sustainability in Mount Prospect Survey:
The Village launched a Sustainability in Mount Prospect Survey via the SurveyMonkey platform in July of
2021. The intended purpose was to start forming a picture of sustainability actions the community has
taken and where the Village may focus its efforts. This survey was the first outreach opportunity
specifically with sustainability as the sole topic and shared through the Village's website and Facebook
page. The survey was open for anyone to take, since it was not possible to verify if responses are from
Village residents. Respondents were asked to select what statements best describes them with the
answer options being, Currently live Mount Prospect, Used to live in Mount Prospect, Work in Mount
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Prospect, Shop in Mount Prospect, Attend
Community Events in Mount Prospect, and Other.
92.92% or 105 of the 113 respondents reported they
currently liv :in the Village, and the neighborhood
map show; fhe distribution of responses in the
community. The question and map was used in the
Community Survey for the Comprehensive Plan
adopted 2017. Majority (77.68%) of respondents fit
the combined 35 — 64 years old age brackets (52.68%
- 35 to 49yos; 25% - 50 to 64 yos). These results may
be used to design future outreach.
52.46% (or 64/122) of respondents responded
"satisfied" to the question, "How do you feel the
Village is doing with regard to sustainable practices
overall?", and 40.98% (or 50/122) of respondents
feeling neutral.
The survey asked which services the respondent
would be interested in for furthering sustainability
efforts, 107 checked Sustainability Programs (e.g.
household hazardous waste collection) and
sustainability information (topic specific information shared via Village's newsletter, website or social
media channels) received 100 votes. Workshops and Seminars received 48 votes. These results should be
taken into consideration when planning future Village initiatives.
There was a series of five questions asking what actions the respondent has taken to support sustainability
in the categories of, Energy, Mobility, Community, Waste & Recycling, and Water. Six to eight answer
options were provided along with the opportunity to submit comments. The purpose of these questions
was to begin to understand where the community has made the most progress. Then the Village could
evaluate where to allocate resources and estimate the impact of initiatives. For example, a LED light
conversion initiative may be less effective since many already use LED lights. On the other hand, an
initiative supporting smart power strips may be more effective. The Village may categorize future
initiatives into supporting existing successes, working towards improvement, or both. Below are highlights
from the survey, which is just the starting point of outreach.
• Respondents engage in sustainable actions much more at home than at work
• The most reported sustainable actions at home were turning off lights, recycling and converting to
LEDs
• Eliminating use of single use plastic water bottles and using reusable bags actions received high
implementation scores
• Majority of respondents have yet to install energy conversion systems (solar or wind) Installing solar
panels had 103 either (at home or at work) answers out of a possible 128
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Respondents had a chance to rank the sustainability categories in order of importance to them personally
and which should receive the most emphasis from the Village over the next two years. The results are
presented in the below table.
IPeirs n ll and ViiIII1age IPirloir'ity IRanking of Suu t iln lW114ty Categoides
Climate I:Hcon. Dev. Energy I...and Mobility I..eadershila ust. Comm. Waste K water
Recycling
Climate (greenhouse gas emissions, clean air, resilience to climate change impacts) ranked at the top as
1ST Choice for personal and village priorities. Energy (energy efficiency, reduce consumption, renewable
and clean energy) came in second overall and 1ST in 2"d choice picks for personal and village priorities.
Sustainable Community (health, safety, wellness, inclusive and equitable), Waste & Recycling (material
management, waste reduction and recycling), Water (distribute water efficiently, water quality, and
manage stormwater) are relatively close for third priority overall.
All the categories are important and the Village is taking actions to further efforts in all. These responses
serve as a general guide for which categories are receiving the most interest. These questions should be
asked in future outreach initiatives to gather greater input from the community. It also may be beneficial
to have additional analysis to evaluate sustainability priorities by sub -areas in the community, similar to
the Neighborhood Map.
Respondents were also able to provide a short form answer to what they would like to see accomplished
over the next two years. Staff grouped and sorted answers in order to create the word cloud visual below.
Encouraging the use of native plants was the most frequently mentioned action with eight comments.
The next three actions received seven mentions each, promoting active transportation, stop building new
multi-family/stop building and furthering sustainable waste management and recycling.
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