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Climate Smart Communities Certification Report

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silver Certified

This is the Climate Smart Communities Certification Report of Suffolk County. Suffolk County is a silver certified Climate Smart Community.

Suffolk County was certified on May 28, 2020 with 349 points earned from 54 completed actions. Listed below is information regarding Suffolk County’s Climate Smart Communities efforts and materials associated with its certified actions.

The certification for Suffolk County will expire on September 30, 2025.

Contact Information

The designated Climate Smart Communities contact for Suffolk County is:

Name:Lisa Broughton
Title/Position:Energy Director / Economic Development and Planning
Address:100 Veterans Memorial Highway, P.O. Box 6100
Hauppauge, NY 11788-0099

Actions Implemented

Each approved action and supporting documentation for which Suffolk County was approved for in 2020 appears below. Note: Standards for the actions below may have changed and the documentation listed may no longer satisfy requirements for that action.

  • 1. Build a climate-smart community.

    1.1 Pass a Resolution Adopting the CSC Pledge

    4 Points

    Program Summary:

    PE1 Action: CSC Task Force

    20 Points
    Bronze Mandatory Silver Mandatory

    Program Summary: Suffolk County was an early adopter of the Climate Smart Communities program adopting Resolution 960-2012 dated Dec 3, 2012, to commit to the principles and appoint the initial Task Force which met though 2013-2015 to write the Climate Action Plan, which was adopted in 2015. Since then Suffolk County has continued the work, led by the Suffolk County Planning Commission with a Climate Action Committee dedicated to the County’s Climate Action work. Coordinated efforts on all aspects of Climate Action policy and programs included the Departments of Economic Development and Planning, especially Division of Planning and Office of Energy; Public Works; Health Services; Parks. The Task Force includes private sector, environmental advocates and representatives from several Towns. To formalize the ongoing work of the Climate Action Task Force, the Suffolk County Planning Commission adopted Resolution ZSR-19-21 on August 7, 2019. Submission in one PDF file: Resolution ZSR-19-21 Task Force Meeting Summaries, Sign-In Sheets and materials for meetings 9-10-2019, 11-7-2019, 1-2-2020

    PE1 Action: CSC Coordinator

    10 Points
    Bronze Mandatory Silver Mandatory

    Program Summary: Attached Document EMA 20-2019 is a fully-executed Executive Memorandum from County Executive Steven Bellone, describing the appointment of Energy Director Lisa Broughton as the Climate Smart Coordinator. Submission: Executive Memo of Appointment #20-2019

    PE1 Action: National/Regional Climate Program

    3 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County is active in the following programs. NYSERDA Clean Energy Communities (CEC) program: https://www.nyserda.ny.gov/All-Programs/Programs/Clean-Energy-Communities/Designated-Clean-Energy-Communities Long Island Clean Energy Leadership Task Force (CELTF): - CELTF mtg on Nov. 22, 2019: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/long-island-clean-energy-leadership-task-force-registration-74763949987# - General info on CELTF: https://www.molloy.edu/about-molloy-college/community-and-institutes/the-sustainability-institute/clean-energy-leadership-task-force

    PE1 Action: Partnerships with Other Entities

    3 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County, a Clean Energy Community, has taken a leadership role in the Long Island Region on energy and climate issues. Growing out of the relationships built at the Clean Energy Leadership Task Force as well as work that began by Suffolk County, Long Island Solar Roadmap is an excellent example of regional collaboration that is based on partnership with other entities. This project is ongoing and can be found at: http://solarroadmap.org/ Starting in 2017, Suffolk County worked regionally with CUNY/NYSUN to enhance the Long Island portion of the NY Solar Map. The Suffolk Legislature established a Comprehensive Renewable Energy Task Force for Suffolk County, and then a Spatial Analysts/Solar Mapping Subgroup, which included The Nature Conservancy, because of their expertise in this area. All parties agreed that solar mapping would be most effective if it included both Counties. Based on that understand, the project was formalized into the Long Island Solar Roadmap Project, which is a Regional project with a diverse group of environmental advocates, government and utility representatives and industry leaders.

  • 2. Inventory emissions, set goals, and plan for climate action.

    PE2 Action: Government Operations GHG Inventory

    16 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: The Suffolk County Government Operations GHG inventory report (dated 2017 for baseline year 2015) is available online: https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Economic-Development-and-Planning/Economic-Development/Energy-and-Climate-Action The county is a legacy applicant for CSC certification; it originally got credit for this action in January 2018, prior to the release of the CSC portal website in April 2018.

    PE2 Action: Community GHG Inventory

    16 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: The Long Island Regional Sustainability Plan under Cleaner Greener Communities includes a target of 15% GHG emissions reduction target by 2020 (page 10), included extensive stakeholder, (pages 5-8, 24 ) and was released to the public by the organizers and NYSERDA, and is posted on the Suffolk County website. The LI Carbon Footprint Project was completed in 2009 using a 2005 baseline and updated by Long Island University in 2013 using 2010 data, also included extensive stakeholder input and was released to the public. Suffolk County has continued to work on initiatives to reduce community/regional GHG as outlined in a memo from Feb 2019, in preparation for the NYS Senate Environmental Committee hearing on the Climate and Community Protection Act. Deputy County Executive Jon Kaiman testified on behalf of Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone at the hearing. Suffolk County will seek to partner with the NYS Climate Action Council on updated regional plans.

    PE2 Action: Community Climate Action Plan

    16 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: The Suffolk County Climate Action Plan is available online: https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Economic-Development-and-Planning/Economic-Development/Energy-and-Climate-Action Suffolk County adopted the plan in 2015. On Page 7, it sets a target of 20 percent reduction in community-wide emissions below the 2005 baseline by 2020. Beginning on page 32 there are a range of prioritized initiatives for reducing Community GHG in the categories of Residential; Commercial/Industrial; Community-wide Renewable Energy; Transportation; Educational Initiatives and Land Management. Public Outreach was also conducted through the Molloy College Sustainability Institute throughout the process and is posted at this web link: https://www.molloy.edu/about-molloy-college/community-and-institutes/the-sustainability-institute/legislation-and-policy

  • 3. Decrease energy use.

    PE3 Action: Government Building Energy Audits

    8 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary:

    PE3 Action: Interior Lighting Upgrades

    3 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County is a Clean Energy Community, and manages its building portfolio (98 buildings, 3,684,752 Square feet) through Portfolio Manager. The file PEINTERIORLIGHTING.xls shows: Building, Address, Square footage (Building), Replacement lighting, unique Energy Project Identifier (EPI) and the Project description, Date Completed, Percentage of square footage (Project), and Calculated square footage (Project). The data shows 32% of square footage has been upgraded to LEDs during that time period.

    PE3 Action: HVAC Upgrades

    4 Points

    Program Summary: Over 74.5% of Suffolk County’s square footage has been upgraded. Suffolk County is a Clean Energy Community, and manages its building portfolio (98 buildings, 3,684,752 Square feet) through Portfolio Manager. The upgraded square footage percentage is supported in the attached files. The file HVAC_Projects.xls shows: Building, Address, Square footage (Building), Project description, Date Completed, Percentage of square footage (Project), and Calculated square footage (Project). As with PE 3.1, which was approved, Suffolk County has used its in-house Energy Engineer, who has signed off on the projects’ efficiency improvements. The specific information required on each project is reflected in the attached pdf files.

    PE3 Action: Water-efficient Fixtures

    2 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County partnered with National Grid in 2017 to upgrade water fixtures with water conserving fixtures. All fixtures were replaced in 2017 and early 2018. The file PE3.4WATERCONSERVATION.xls shows: Building, Address, Square footage (Building), Fixtures replaced, and Efficiency of new fixtures. The data shows 32% of the County’s building portfolio has been upgraded to water efficient fixtures since 2017. The cut sheet for the fixtures is provided as well.

    PE3 Action: Building Energy Management System

    3 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County is a Clean Energy Community, and manages its building portfolio (98 buildings, 3,684,752 Square feet) through Portfolio Manager. The file BMS_CSC.xls lists County buildings with operational building management systems controlling the HVAC only, and the square footage of those buildings. Also included in the spreadsheet is a screen snapshot of the BMS portal. Our data shows 63% of square footage is currently using a BMS. In lieu of reports from these systems, we are including select records of system maintenance and upgrades.

    PE3 Action: Benchmarking - Municipal Buildings

    4 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County has been approved for this point under the Clean Energy Communities Program. Suffolk County has an energy benchmarking law for government-owned buildings that is currently in effect. Suffolk County implements this requirement annually and posts it to the Suffolk County Energy and Climate Action page of the Suffolk County website.

    PE3 Action: Clean Energy Upgrades

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County has been approved for this point under the Clean Energy Communities Program.

    PE3 Action: Green Building Standard for Government Buildings

    5 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County is seeking 5 points for adopting a green building standard for new construction (LEED), Solar and Cool Roofs and adopting a green building standard for existing local government buildings. Suffolk County adopted a policy for new construction of County facilities to be built to Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED) standards in 2006. After the USGBC changed and updated the LEED program several times, in Reso 458-2011 to County committed to using the most up-to-date LEED Standard available. Two Executive Orders, EO4-2011 and EO2-2009, set a standard for solar and cool, green roofing on County buildings. Suffolk County established a program for energy conservation at existing County buildings in 2004 with a new Capital Project 1664, setting the standard for the most efficient facilities possible. Since then, the County has committed millions of dollars to upgrade and enhance county facilities in order to reduce energy demand. As a leader among Long Island municipalities, Suffolk was awarded the “ACE” Award for Always Conserving Energy to note the ongoing commitment to green government buildings.

    PE3 Action: Fleet Efficiency Policy

    2 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County Code Chapter 186 restricts the purchase of SUV’s and requires the use of E85 and requires the updating of the Fleet to vehicles that are capable of operating on alternative fuels. Since then, the County has purchased or leased dozens of CNG and Hybrid Electric vehicles. The Energy Office has worked with DPW/Fleet to create a Green Fleet Policy bi-annually to report on progress and set clean fleet goals.

    PE3 Action: Advanced Vehicles

    2 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County has been approved for this point under the Clean Energy Communities Program and is seeking 2 points for deploying at least one CNG Vehicle. Suffolk County has 100 CNG Vehicles currently in use in the fleet.

    PE3 Action: Financing Mechanism for Government Energy Projects

    5 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County was an early-adopter in dedicating funding for energy efficiency. Capital Program 1664 was established in 2004 and has been funded annually for projects including lighting upgrades, HVAC, co-generation and solar PV. Suffolk County has been awarded the “ACE” for Always Conserving Energy, for its consistent commitment to energy efficiency projects over the years. A current project list is included. Please see the link to the 2020-2022 Adopted Capital Budget https://suffolkcountyny.gov/Portals/0/formsdocs/county executive/Budgets/Certified%202020-2022%20Adopted%20-%20County%20of%20Suffolk,%20NY.pdf and attached page for CP 1664.

  • 4. Shift to clean, renewable energy.

    PE4 Action: Green Power Procurement Policy

    4 Points

    Program Summary: 2 pt Suffolk County adopted a Green Procurement Policy in 2005 and purchased green power through various programs through 2012 when solar carports in six County parking lots came online. 2 pt Suffolk County has undertaken several reports to increase the use of renewable energy. The most recent was the Renewable Energy Construction Task Force report attached.

    PE4 Action: Renewable Energy Feasibility Studies

    3 Points

    Program Summary: The County has studied three technologies: Geothermal, Solar PV, Smart Roofs which includes green roofs and cool roofs. 1. A study was completed for a Geothermal Project at the Suffolk County Board of Elections. 2. A solar PV study for all property in Suffolk County, including County-owned facilities and brownfield properties, was completed by the Suffolk Legislature’s Renewable Energy Construction Task Force. On page 7 the final recommendation is for Suffolk County DPW to further review County-owned right-of-ways. 3. A study was completed analyzing the Rooftop Capacity for Solar and Smart Roofs - including green roofs - of major County Facilities

    PE4 Action: Renewable Energy Certificates

    7 Points

    Program Summary: From 2006 to 2011, Suffolk County purchased Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) under the LIPA Green Choice Program and the EPA Green Power Program. For 2011, Suffolk purchased REC’s for 90% of its energy use and was listed as a National Green Power Leader by the EPA. By 2012, the County’s 12.8 MW Solar Parking Lot project was energized, and a decision was made to discontinue purchase of REC’s from other projects.

    PE4 Action: Solar Energy Installation

    20 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County has been awarded SolSmart Gold for its use of solar energy installations on its facilities as part of a larger program to green County buildings. To date the County has the following installations totaling 277 kW: Bldg Name Date Installed Production Capacity (kW) PUBLIC WORKS May 2017 12 BOARD OF ELECTION Dec 2014 100 PD HEADQUARTERS Apr 2009 40 4th PD PRECINCT Sept 2010 46 SUPREME COURT Jun 2016 20 BERGEN POINT Nov 2010 24 SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT LEGISLATURE BLDG Nov 2019 30 MONTAUK CO PARK Apr 2010 5 Public education has included posting signs in the buildings that have solar, presentations to several regional energy conferences and regional groups such as the Clean Energy Leadership Task Force, Hauppauge Industrial Association, LI US Green Building Council, Suffolk Students for Climate Action and several high school and middle school classes and groups.

    PE4 Action: Power Purchase Agreement for Renewables

    20 Points

    Program Summary: Under Power Purchase Agreements with LIPA, Suffolk County hosts 7 distributed solar arrays on County Property. In the first project, Suffolk County partnered with enXco, to build Carport Arrays at six County Parking Lots. Under the second, Suffolk County partnered with AES (originally SunEdison) to build ground mount solar at Gabreski Airport. • 12.8 MW Solar PV hosted at 6 county parking lots • 4.2 MW Solar PV to be hosted at Suffolk County Gabreski Airport Submitting: An Authorizing Resolution for each project Leases and proof of payment for 6 Carport Projects Lease and proof of payment for 1 Airport Project Photos, Articles and Presentations to explain Power Purchase Agreement/Lease model Suffolk is seeking 20 points for providing County property for 7 Renewable Energy Projects

  • 5. Use climate-smart materials management.

    PE5 Action: Waste Reduction Education Campaign

    2 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County has initiated a school recycling and educational campaign in coordination with local schools and the Towns to ensure more and higher quality recycling by all Suffolk residents. The program can be found at the SuffolkShare website: https://www.suffolkshare.com/ . It was deployed in September 2018 and is currently active.

  • 6. Implement climate-smart land use.

    PE6 Action: Comprehensive Plan with Sustainability Elements

    21 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: Framework for the Future – Suffolk County Comprehensive Master Plan 2035 was adopted on August 12, 2015, after 2 public hearings and a two-year public and stakeholder outreach process. Submission includes a page from the plan that illustrates the process, minutes from public hearings. https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/portals/0/formsdocs/planning/CompPlan/Comp%20Master%20Plan%202035/ADASuffolkCounty_MasterPlanFINAL_07282015.pdf This entire plan was developed and written with an emphasis on sustainability, resiliency and innovation in planning for Suffolk County’s future. It considers every aspect of sustainable best management practices for policy and capital project planning in areas of housing, transportation, environment, innovation economy. We are seeking points for each required category and for 3 points each for the additional categories for 21 points. Please read "Suffolk Comp Plan Narrative" for the page numbers and descriptions of each point requested.

    PE6 Action: Smart Growth Policies

    8 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County was an early adopter of Smart Growth principles and planning. Smart Growth principles and embedded SC Planning Commission Guidebook and therefore considered by the SC Planning Commission in every recommendation it makes to Suffolk County’s towns and villages pursuant to NYS GML 239 and SC Admin Code Article 14. The Guidebook policies were developed originally from the three reports by the Suffolk County Department of Planning. Planning Commissioner Guidebook https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/portals/0/formsdocs/planning/Publications/SCPCguidebk12r.pdf Smart Communities through Smart Growth – Applying Smart Growth Principles to Suffolk County Towns and Villages https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/portals/0/formsdocs/planning/Publications/SG032000r.pdf Smart Growth Policy Plan for Suffolk County – SC Planning Department Oct 2000 https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/portals/0/formsdocs/planning/Publications/SG102000r.pdf Suffolk County Smart Growth Committee Report – Analysis and Prioritization of the Recommendations of the Smart Growth Policy Plan for Suffolk County - SCDP 2003 https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/portals/0/formsdocs/planning/Publications/SG112003r.pdf Suffolk County is seeking 8 points for this action: For purposes of this action, we point to the SCPC Guidebook and refer to page numbers where the points can be found as “Guidebook pages ##” Mix land uses – Guidebook pages 16- 17, 20, 23 Promote compact building design and cluster development - Guidebook pages 16-17, 20 Diversity of housing opportunities and choices - Guidebook pages 16-18 Walkable neighborhoods - Guidebook pages 16-17 and 22 Foster distinctive, attractive communities with a strong sense of place Guidebook pages 16-17, 20, 22 Preserve open space, farmland, natural beauty, and important natural areas Guidebook pages 20-22, 25-28 Strengthen and direct development toward existing community centers, hamlets or urban areas Guidebook pages 16-17, 20-21 Promote density that facilitates non-car transportation options - Guidebook pages 17, 19-21, 24

    PE6 Action: Unified Solar Permit

    5 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County, NY is a national leader in encouraging the use of renewables by residents and businesses through model codes. The original Long Island Unified Solar Code, LIUSPI, came from Suffolk County working with local Towns and then expanded to include LIPA and Nassau County towns. Suffolk County earned the national SolSmart Gold Award, in part for leading this regional effort for unified permitting that became a statewide standard and national model. Working through the Suffolk County Planning Commission, Suffolk County convened town and village leaders to cooperatively write and adopt the Unified Solar Permit. Suffolk County then worked cooperatively with LIPA to have them incentivize Towns and Villages to adopt the program. The Long Island Unified Solar Permit was then used as a model for a statewide program to remove the burden of differing codes within a region, and facilitate the growth of residential solar. In subsequent years, Suffolk County Planning Commission has drafted and encouraged adoption by Towns and Village of model codes for Geothermal, Commercial Wind and Utility-Scale Solar. Because Suffolk County led the state in collaborating with permitting municipalities and creating a Unified Solar Permit for Long Island, Suffolk County is seeking 5 points for this action.

    PE6 Action: Green Building Ordinance

    6 Points

    Program Summary: In the Suffolk County Code, through its powers as a taxing jurisdiction, Suffolk County has granted exemption for LEED Certified construction. This applies to Commercial, High-rise multi-family residential buildings, one and two-family dwellings, and Low-rise multi-family residential dwellings. Suffolk County has required Green Buildings – LEED – for new construction of County buildings since 2006 and has continuously updated that requirement to keep up with the most recent LEED Program. In addition, two executive orders require Solar PV and Cool Green Roofs to be considered for County buildings. The Suffolk County Planning Commission (SCPC) has adopted policies for all new residential, commercial and industrial buildings to utilize solar and/or geothermal and to be planned with consideration should be given to providing solar access. Guidebook Chapter 4.3 Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency page 18. 1- Government owned buildings – LEED Reso 458-2011 and Rooftop Executive Orders 2- Commercial buildings – Tax Exemption in SC Code, Reso 1077-2012 and SCPC Guidebook page 18 1- High-rise multi-family residential buildings - Tax Exemption in SC Code and SCPC Guidebook page 18 1- One and two-family dwellings - Tax Exemption in SC Code and SCPC Guidebook page 18 1- Low-rise multi-family residential dwellings - Tax Exemption in SC Code and SCPC Guidebook page 18

    PE6 Action: Policies for Local Food Systems

    3 Points

    Program Summary: In December 2015, Suffolk County adopted a new Agricultural and Farmland Protection Plan, which was funded by a New York State Agriculture and Markets $50K grant. The goals were: to preserve agriculture as an essential industry in Suffolk County; to continue to purchase the development rights of the remaining farms that are not protected; to incentivize farmers to implement best management practices; to retain the cultural continuity of farming as a link to the historical development of Suffolk County while attracting new farmers, and diversifying crops, markets, and methodologies; and to maintain the economic viability of the County’s agriculture industry. An essential recommendation of the plan was to develop and Agricultural Stewardship Plan (later adopted by resolution in March 2016) and to secure funding to help farmers implement best management plans, which was later secured via federal USDA-NRCS funding and accepted and appropriated by resolution in May 2017. Four points are requested since both of these plans encourage local farmer’s markets and farm stands. There is a resolution regarding Community Gardens. And because Suffolk is has both dense population in the west and rural populations on the east end, Suffolk is seeking points for both urban and rural agriculture. Links to Plans: https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Portals/0/formsdocs/planning/OpenSpaceFarmland/Farmland/AFPP_FINAL_TXTMAPS_ADA_12182015r.pdf https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Economic-Development-and-Planning/Planning-and-Environment/Open-Space-and-Farmland/Farmland-Preservation https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Economic-Development-and-Planning/Planning-and-Environment/Open-Space-and-Farmland/Suffolk-County-Farmland-Committee

    PE6 Action: Infrastructure for Biking and Walking

    7 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County is actively pursuing many hiking, biking, and walkway initiatives. Develop a bike share program – 5 points Improve bike parking – 2 points In 2019, the County coordinated the funding, management, administration, and permitting of a County-wide bike share program, with system operator Zagster and title sponsor Bethpage FCU. The system has begun with 100 bikes and 18 stations in Babylon, Patchogue, and Hampton Bays. The system launched on September 15th, 2019, and has since signed up over 750 members, and seen over 570 trips taken. At each of the 18 stations, the racks are available for the use of the general public, which is an increase in bike parking in those communities. More info about the program can be found online: https://theneighbornewspapers.com/suffolk-county-executive-bellone-announces-first-of-its-kind-regional-bike-share-program/

    PE6 Action: Alternative-fuel Infrastructure

    12 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: Suffolk County is approved for this point under the Clean Energy Communities Program. The county has a total of 4 CNGV fueling stations, two at the Highway Department Commack facility and two at the Highway Department Westhampton facility. Both were installed in 2011 and both locations are open to the public. More info about these CNGV stations is attached and online: http://www.cameronengineering.com/climatesmart/transportation.php

    PE6 Action: Access to Public Transit

    1 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County is eligible for 1 point for the tier called "Coordinate with a regional transit agency or neighboring community to expand access to public transit within the region." - On Car Free Day 2017 (9/22/17), County Executive Bellone announced a new TransLoc Rider mobile application that provided reliable next-bus predictions for riders to better utilize Suffolk County Transit. This new technology continues the modernization of the county’s transit system aimed to encourage ridership, and reduce carbon emissions and the number of single-occupancy vehicles on the road. Through the app, customers will have a visual mapping of buses in the palm of their hand, enabling real time tracking, including state of the art next bus predictions. Riders are able to set a favorite route, and sign up to receive alerts for when a bus is within five, ten, or fifteen minutes of a bus stop for maximum user efficiency. (Press release and Newsday Article Attached) - On Car Free Day 2018 (9/21/2018) County Executive Steve Bellone launched Suffolk FastFare—a mobile payment app that allows users to easily purchase Suffolk County Transit tickets and check bus arrival times using a link to the TransLoc Rider app. Suffolk FastFare is a cashless mobile app that allows residents to easily purchase Suffolk County Transit tickets on their smartphone device and is available for use on all Suffolk County Transit buses. There are a variety of ticket bundle options available including 2-ticket, 10-ticket and 20-ticket bundles. When passengers purchase the 20-ticket bundle, they also get one ride free included in their purchase. (Press release and Newsday Article attached)

    PE6 Action: Local Forestry Program

    4 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County is seeking 4 points for Develop a Local Forestry or Tree Planting Program. Implement a large-scale tree planting project – 2 points Suffolk County Parks, Recreation and Conservation partnered with the NYS DEC and Pine Barrens Society to plant 350 pitch pine seedlings to help restore pines at the heavily impacted Hubbard County Park. This large-scale tree planting project was also an education event for the public. This cooperative effort is expected to continue and result in additional tree planting going forward. Participate in one of the State’s Forest Stewardship Programs – 2 points Suffolk County Parks, Recreation and Conservation is part of the NYS Southern Pine Beetle Program as well as the Central Pine Barrens Joint Planning and Policy Commission.

    PE6 Action: Zoning for Protection of Natural Areas

    4 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk is seeking 4 Points for the following laws and regulations that conserve natural areas. Suffolk County has several local laws and regulations that help to conserve natural areas. These regulations are based on several strategic plans to maximize environmental protection. • § C35-12: Creation of Suffolk County Pine Barrens Zone. • Suffolk County has adopted guidelines to adhere to the Pine Barrens code. Every application that comes before the SCPC is required to meet the standard and guidelines for development as outlined in Suffolk County Planning Commission Subdivision Guidebook on pg. 40. • Suffolk County Save Open Space Bond Act Workforce Housing Transfer of Development Right Implementation Plan - 2005

  • 7. Enhance community resilience to climate change.

    PE7 Action: Climate Vulnerability Assessment

    4 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: In October 2019, the Superstorm Sandy Review Task Force also released “Report to the Legislature: Looking to the Past to Prepare for the Future which includes many elements of vulnerability assessment: https://www.scnylegislature.us/DocumentCenter/View/67979/10302019-Superstorm-Sandy-Review-Task-Force-Report-October-2019-PDF

    PE7 Action: Climate Resilience Vision

    3 Points

    Program Summary: In Oct 2019, the Superstorm Sandy Review Task Force also released “Report to the Legislature: Looking to the Past to Prepare for the Future which includes many elements of vulnerability assessment: https://www.scnylegislature.us/DocumentCenter/View/67979/10302019-Superstorm-Sandy-Review-Task-Force-Report-October-2019-PDF The The "100-year view" section of the 2019 Superstorm Sandy Review Task Force report is type of climate resilience vision; see page 117 of the PDF. Superstorm Sandy struck at the heart of Long Island, leaving devastation in its wake and creating untold financial hardship and stress for those who were impacted by the winds and flooding associated with its storm surge. The aftermath brought out the very best of the collective human spirit as people banded together to lift up one another up in their time of need. We worked together to coordinate an unprecedented storm response, to clean up storm debris, restore power, and to help people rebuild their homes which is ongoing. Once Suffolk went from response mode into recovery, the County conducted an After Action Review to identify how we might improve our response to the next major event. Five years later, the presiding officer established the Superstorm Sandy Task Force to evaluate where we’re at and what specifically we should be addressing in terms of response, recovery, resiliency and infrastructure mitigation. Released. This report built upon the vision of Framework for the Future Suffolk County Comprehensive Master Plan 2035, on page 50, which established Priority Action Area “Build for Resiliency” which was a resilient vision on for the entire County. The Suffolk County Comprehensive Plan can be found here https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/portals/0/formsdocs/planning/CompPlan/Comp%20Master%20Plan%202035/ADASuffolkCounty_MasterPlanFINAL_07282015.pdf Suffolk County Comprehensive Water Resources Management Plan – Section 7 Coastal Resiliency is also the result of a multi-year public process: https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Portals/0/FormsDocs/Health/EnvironmentalQuality/ComprehensiveWaterResourceManagementPlan/Comprehensive_Water_Resource_Management_Plan.pdf

    PE7 Action: Climate Adaptation Plan

    8 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: 2 pts Resolution 1156-2017 Established the Superstorm Sandy Review Task Force which reviewed past and current conditions and drafted strategies for the future. 2 pts The Superstorm Sandy Review Task Force meetings throughout 2018-2019, and brought in local, state and national leaders to provide input to Suffolk County in its efforts to build the capacity to evolve with changing conditions. 4 pts The Superstorm Sandy Review Task Force incorporated public and expert comments and, in Oct 2019, released “Report to the Legislature: Looking to the Past to Prepare for the Future": https://www.scnylegislature.us/DocumentCenter/View/67979/10302019-Superstorm-Sandy-Review-Task-Force-Report-October-2019-PDF

    PE7 Action: Watershed-based Flood Mitigation Plan

    6 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk is seeking 4 points for the watershed documents that identifies areas vulnerable to water quality problems that covers 75% or more of the community areas. Suffolk is seeking 2 points for specific priority projects that identifies responsible parties which are located beginning on page 82 of the SWP which outline a list of specific priority projects and identified responsible parties. https://www.reclaimourwater.info/TheSubwatershedsWastewaterPlan.aspx The Reclaim Our Water Subwatersheds Plan (SWP) was identified as the platform to fulfill the needs of the LINAP and Reclaim Our Water initiatives and provides a recommended Countywide wastewater management road map that can be used by policymakers and stakeholders to make informed decisions. The SWP also identifies water bodies where wastewater management alone may not result in sufficient nitrogen removal to protect the environment and human health and where additional nitrogen mitigation such as permeable reactive barriers, in-water aquaculture/bioharvesting, hydromodification, and fertilizer management may be required. Finally, in addition to providing recommendations for wastewater management, the SWP provides the foundation towards the advancement of nitrogen reduction strategies from non-wastewater sources as well as a strategy to advance future recommendations for other compounds such as contaminants of emerging concern (CECs), phosphorus, and pathogens. The SWP is one aspect of a County-wide program to reduce the total nitrogen mass load to groundwater and surface water within the County. Suffolk County remains dedicated to tracking the implementation of the program and to working with local jurisdictions and continuing coordination with related programs (e.g. estuary programs, LINAP, LICAP, Town/Villages) to ensure the Countywide implementation strategy addressing nitrogen sources is advanced.

    PE7 Action: Riparian Buffers

    7 Points

    Program Summary: SC has a rich history in floodplain and stream buffer protection, with expenditures totaling $43 Million to restore floodplains and ensure stream buffer protection. We are providing information on 3 different projects which meet the criteria: NRCS – Mastic Smith Point and other County parks Mud Creek Suffolk is seeking the following points based on attached documents: Complete Assessment of floodplain 1 point Conserve floodplain 2 points Incorporate stream buffer protection 3 points Revegetate floodplain 2 points Reconnect a stream to a floodplain 2 points

    7.17 Conserve Wetlands and Forests to Manage Stormwater, Recharge Groundwater and Mitigate Flooding

    9 Points

    Program Summary: 1 pt The Comprehensive Master Plan, Chapter 6 and pages 52-53, discusses the County’s plans and progress in the acquisition of open space and wetlands. https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/portals/0/formsdocs/planning/CompPlan/Comp%20Master%20Plan%202035/ADASuffolkCounty_MasterPlanFINAL_07282015.pdf 1 pt The Comprehensive Master List Update of Proposed Acquisitions is an analysis that includes wetland and forest for all 10 Suffolk County towns. Summary beginning on page 327 and summary with priority rating beginning on page 333. https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/portals/0/formsdocs/planning/OpenSpaceFarmland/OpenSpace/CMLU12_FINAL.pdf 2 Pts Incorporate Conservation into land use regulations: SC Planning Commission Guidebook – page 17 and 20-22 – attached Principles for Review of Applications for Development within the Suffolk County Pine Barrens Zone: https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/portals/0/formsdocs/planning/Publications/Pine%20Barrens%20Review%20Commission.pdf 2 Pts Develop Local wetland protection Ordinance - Wetlands Stewardship Strategy - attached 3 pts (1 pt each for up to 3 areas) under Conserve One high-priority wetland or forest area – See Excel Sheet with acquisitions totals for 2009-2019 that correspond to The Comprehensive Master List Update of Proposed Acquisitions – link above. These are individual parcels, which make up high-priority assemblages. At the end of The Comprehensive Master List Update of Proposed Acquisitions there is a summary table ranking the site/assemblage area. On page 7 there are criteria for Natural Resource Characteristics, including wetlands, buffer areas; groundwater resources, Pine Barrens; natural habitat data, etc. There are also criteria for Physical Characteristics such as geological landforms, locations in or adjacent to waterbodies, unique geological land forms, etc…. On page 8 all of this is summarized to show that “there are 86 proposed open space sites/assemblages identified for future open space acquisition.” These have been purchased through various county programs shown on the Environ Programs Status of Funds which is attached.

    PE7 Action: Water Conservation & Reuse

    4 Points

    Program Summary: 2 pts - Through the Suffolk County Water Authority, Suffolk County participates in EPA Water Sense: https://www.scwa.com/water-quality/environment/water-sense/ 1 pt - Water Conservation for Government Facilities: Suffolk County partnered with National Grid in 2017 to upgrade water fixtures with water conserving fixtures. All fixtures were replaced in 2017 and early 2018. The file PE3.4WATERCONSERVATION.xls shows: Building, Address, Square footage (Building), Fixtures replaced, and Efficiency of new fixtures. The data shows 32% of the County’s building portfolio has been upgraded to water efficient fixtures since 2017. 1 pt – Water Conservation for Community - A comprehensive water conservation program now includes a tiered rate system so those consuming above average will pay higher rates. This conservation rate is in line with an initiative from DEC calling on Long Islanders to reduce water consumption. https://www.scwa.com/water-customers/billing/2019-water-rate-changes/ https://www.scwa.com/water-quality/environment/ Additional Water Conservation materials: http://www.liaquifercommission.com/ https://ourwaterourlives.com/

  • 8. Support a green innovation economy.

    PE8 Action: Green Jobs Training

    3 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County, through the Department of Labor, Licensing and Consumer Affairs (SCDOLLCA), has relationships with Suffolk County Community College and United Way of Long Island to provide Green Job Training. • Both entities are members of the Workforce Development Board (WDB) – appointed by County Executive Steve Bellone. The WDBs connect the USDOL, NYSDOL and Suffolk County’s American Job Centers that deliver services to workers and employers, and develop regional strategic plans and set funding priorities for their area. • Both entities are Eligible Training Providers and have frequently been awarded funds under the state’s Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) process. These state level funds support a particular training course such as the United Way’s 10-Week “Next Generation Home Construction” course. The United Way and SCCC when awarded NYSDOL funds will: Coordinate outreach and recruitment with the SCDOLLCA and Conduct Career Exploration presentations within the SCDOLLCA Job Center to generate interest in the field of study. • Both entities provide vocational training to the County’s American Job Center customers. The contracts between these two entities have been in effect since early 2017 and will continue through 6/30/20. Suffolk County Community College offers Comprehensive BPI Energy Analyst & Envelope Program; Solar Installer; and High School Equivalency plus Solar Installer. United Way of Long Island: offers Green Construction Efficiency Technician

    PE8 Action: Farmers’ Markets

    3 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk Farmers Market Flyer shows 21 Farmers Markets that were operational for more than 10 days in 2019. Suffolk County has provided support for farmers markets throughout the County through the Suffolk County Food Policy Council, the Suffolk County Department of Health Services (DHS) and the Suffolk County Department of Economic Development & Planning (EDP). The Food Policy Council 2019 Report focuses on Farmers Markets on Page 15-16. In 2019, DHS allocated $177K to Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) of Suffolk County’s Family Health & Wellness program to help support efforts to provide support and outreach for the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program. CCE staff provides educational programming to help participants of the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) and low-income seniors and SNAP recipients select, store, and prepare fresh produce from the farmers’ market. Additionally, Economic Development and Planning staff created and maintain an inventory of farmers markets on chooseli.org, an effort to encourage Suffolk County households to spend 10% of their weekly food allowance on local food goods over a typical harvest season. That commitment would add 19 million dollars into the Suffolk County economy and create 33 million dollars in total economic activity and create nearly 1,000 local jobs.

    PE8 Action: Buy Local/Buy Green Campaign

    2 Points

    Program Summary: ChooseLI.org is a campaign launched the summer 2018 to inspire the community to choose goods from local and independent farmers and fishermen to preserve our heritage industries and cultivate a vibrant, diverse and robust economy. It is a collaborative initiative to raise awareness, advocate and inspire the community to support local and independent businesses by spending 10% of their weekly food allowance on local and seasonal food goods across Suffolk County, Long Island. Partners include Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County, Discover Long Island, the Suffolk County Department of Economic Development & Planning, the Suffolk County Food Policy Council, the Long Island Farm Bureau, NYS Agriculture & markets, Island harvest, the Long Island Commercial Fishing Association, the Long Island Food Council, the Long Island Wine Council, the Peconic Land Trust, NY Sea Grant, the Long Island Development Corporation, and the East End Food Institute. It includes the first map of every single farmstand, farmers market, vineyard, cidery, distillery, brewery, flower retailer, and restaurant carrying local oysters in Suffolk County. In addition Suffolk County has a Food Policy Council which has focused on Choose LI and other initiatives. Specifically, buying local is discussed on Page 11 of the 2019 Food Policy Council Report.

    PE8 Action: Brownfield Clean-up & Redevelopment

    4 Points

    Program Summary: 1 point - Framework for the Future – Suffolk County Comprehensive Master Plan 2035, includes brownfield priorities on page 37-39 https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/portals/0/formsdocs/planning/CompPlan/Comp%20Master%20Plan%202035/ADASuffolkCounty_MasterPlanFINAL_07282015.pdf 3 points - Develop strategy for multiple brownfields The Creation of the Suffolk County Landbank by resolution 114-2012 specifically charges the Landbank to focus on “several dozen vacant, abandoned, environmentally contaminated tax-delinquent properties.” In addition to the 2016 MOU with NYS DEC which created an agreement with Landbank and DEC share info and redeveloped superfund and suspected brownfields.

    PE8 Action: Incentives for Green Businesses

    4 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County supports green businesses - specifically the Long Island Solar Industry - by waiving sales tax solar panels for both commercial and residential. This incentive has made solar development of commercial and residential properties more affordable for Suffolk residents and businesses, which has in turn, increased business for local solar developers.

    PE8 Action: PACE Financing

    7 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County has been approved for this point under the Clean Energy Communities Program and is seeking 7 points. Local Law 29-2019 which is the ordinance and policy to establish (the 3rd version of) PACE. CEC approval email for EnergizeNY Finance High Impact Action and a screenshot of EIC’s Participating Municipalities web page showing that Suffolk County is listed as a current member and the program is operational.

  • 9. Inform and inspire the public.

    PE9 Action: Energy Reduction Campaign

    5 Points

    Program Summary: Suffolk County has used its Shared Services platform, SuffolkShare, create an energy reduction campaign, SuffolkShare Energy Efficiency, encouraging more than 100 member municipalities to reduce energy consumption/bills through energy efficiency. This is an ongoing program and can be found at https://www.suffolkshare.com Thus far, Suffolk County, LIPA and PSEG LI. have collaborated to offer three public meetings were Dec 10 and 11, 2019 and (scheduled) Jan 14, 2020, with more meetings planned in 2020, especially for east end towns. The SuffolkShare public meeting agenda and presentations were as follows: • Energy assessments - PSEG Long Island • Rebates - PSEG Long Island • Cooperative procurement of energy efficient items (LEDs, windows, HVACs) - Suffolk County • New NYS carbon reduction mandates - Suffolk County Additional Climate-related topics promoted by SuffolkShare have included Bike Sharing and Code Enforcement Training for Towns.

    PE9 Action: Climate-related Public Events

    3 Points

    Program Summary: Eco-Carnival - Suffolk County co-sponsors an annual Eco-Carnival which attracts more than 2,500 people for a day of nature programs, live animals, music, art games and food, with an emphasis on Climate Education and Climate Action. Hands on nature stations at the event include topics such as salt marsh exploration, birds in the woods, insect adventures, words in the wind, and green on the scene. In addition to the programs and entertainment, select eco-friendly vendors are on hand to promote and demonstrate their eco-friendly products and services.

    PE9 Action: Local Climate Action Website

    3 Points

    Program Summary: On the Suffolk County Energy and Climate Action website https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Economic-Development-and-Planning/Economic-Development/Energy-and-Climate-Action one will find the County’s official 2015 Climate Action Plan detailing the County’s past, current and future efforts related to local climate change mitigation and adaptation. This page also contains a section titled “In The News” where related energy and climate action articles, press releases and the like are posted–most recently a July 31, 2019 Newsday article entitled, “Suffolk Officials Unveil $4 Billion Plan to Fight Nitrogen Pollution in Surface Waters”. In addition, there is a brief description of, and link to, the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program, which is an innovative mechanism that individuals and businesses may use to finance energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements on private property. The page also has “Additional Resources” and a “Take Action” which has links to programs for reducing energy use –both electric and natural gas, as well as fossil fuel reduction tips from the Suffolk County Health Department and water saving tips from the Suffolk County Water Authority.

    PE9 Action: Social Media

    3 Points

    Program Summary: The attached document “Suffolk County Energy and Climate Action Social Media” provides examples of three Suffolk County social media accounts that demonstrate support of the County’s clean energy and climate initiatives. In total, nine examples of current social media posts are provided across those accounts: Suffolk County Economic Development and Planning’s Facebook and Twitter: Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone’s Flickr account. County Executive Bellone posts on topic to his Facebook and Twitter accounts as well.

  • 11. Innovation

    Innovation: New Innovative Actions

    3 Points

    Program Summary: Use of I/A OWTS: Suffolk County is transitioning to the use of Innovative and Alternative Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (I/A OWTS) to effectively treat wastewater through the development of the County’s Reclaim Our Water program: https://www.reclaimourwater.info/ Suffolk County built the Reclaim Our Water program comprehensively – engaging stakeholders early and often in policy discussions, testing wastewater technologies locally before scaling up the program, working with the liquid waste industry to update licensing requirements and provide training for the industry, securing local and state funding and financing through a local nonprofit to create an affordable septic replacement program for homeowners, as well as launching a responsible management entity to monitor program performance, updating the County sanitary code to allow for the installation of these new technologies and ban the in-kind replacement of cesspools effective July 1, 2019.

    Innovation: Innovative Approaches to Existing CSC Actions

    5 Points

    Program Summary: PE1 Action: Join a national or regional climate campaign or program - Innovation for Leadership – 5 points Suffolk County has showed initiative and innovation by starting a Long Island C3E Women in Energy Program. After participating in the C3E Symposium at MIT in 2015, Suffolk County Energy Director Lisa Broughton partnered with the Advanced Energy Conference to offer a C3E program in 2016. That program was so successful, that it has led to two LI Women in Energy programs each year for the last three years with more than 800 attendees in total. Partnerships have been established between local government with LI colleges and universities; the Suffolk Students for Climate Action high school group and the Girl Scouts of Suffolk County as well as the Long Island utilities: LIPA, PSEG LI and National Grid. Suffolk County has been a member or leader in numerous campaigns and programs, as listed below: SolSmart Award Letter and web link: https://www.solsmart.org/communities/suffolk-county/ NYS Clean Energy Communities EnergizeNY https://energizeny.org/ Long Island Solar Roadmap Project http://solarroadmap.org/ Long Island Clean Energy Leadership Task Force - https://www.molloy.edu/about-molloy-college/community-and-institutes/the-sustainability-institute/clean-energy-leadership-task-force Long Island Drive Electric Coalition: https://usgbc-li.org/drive-electric-long-island-coalition Long Island Nitrogen Action Plan https://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/103654.html

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