City Council Study Session Summary 2009 01 13

Home Browse Search

City Council Study Session Summary DATE Page 3 of 3 energy projects that offer pay-back in the future. He indicated changing wattages of fixtures saves energy over time. He then provided a thorough review of the energy report. He discussed in detail the top 9 buildings that represented 98% of the energy usage with the Council members. Mr. Szabados then presented a quarterly report. Mayor Sisk commented that the Police Dept. appears to be a fairly large user. Mr. Szabados indicated that the Police Dept. meets energy star standards, which is 30% better than the building code. The Recreation Ctr. was found to be energy intensive. Control systems could be used more optimally, such as unoccupied spaces like the Court rooms. Mr. Szabados discussed the possibility of using thermal imaging to determine how to fix the loss of energy. The Library has a good HVAC system; scheduling of control system is efficient. City Hall is doing very well. On the weekends the building is chilly, as it is kept cooler. Mr. Szabados discussed fleet fuel and Top 9 building of metric tons of carbon consumption, and fuel contracts. Mayor Sisk discussed the possibility of Denver, Aurora, and Broomfield joining us in the purchasing of fuel. Sisk referred to contacts in other communities. Mr. Dalton asked about fuel shut offs on vehicles. He asked if this practice has been observed with City vehicles. Mr. Szabados stated he had not come across this as an issue. Many environmental and weather factors affect heating and cooling days. Consumption patterns changed after remodel of the City Hall building. Mr. Szabados suggested partnering with Excel to receive rebates on energy savings. Projects in progress were discussed. Public Works collaborated with aquatics to change 500 watts to 42 watts. Public Works will also continue to use T12 fixtures. Future Planning - NDHU- Design of HVAC systems. Discussed the use of heat recovery units to get 70% - 80% back. Pool Cover - plenty of reserve, just need a panel. The panel saves energy from the evaporation. They expect to have pool cover in by end of the 2nd quarter. Another project is the Rec. Ctr. Roof. Mayor Sisk asked if the new roof is part of the capital projects. The response was, yes. The discussion then changed to the use of solar panels on the roof. Mr. Szabados indicated that you could build any type of roof that can accommodate solar panels if done correctly. Mayor Sisk asked if we are looking into this as an opportunity for solar panels at the Rec. Ctr. Mr. Szabados stated that hot water solar has been found to be a good effective option. He commented that funds might allow the City to put in modest alternative energy projects. Bella energy built solar units for the George Reynolds Library in Boulder. They may be interested in supporting a project in Louisville. The discussion covered tax credits, and other solar energy options. Public Works will continue to look for rebates and grants to help fund energy projects. Discussion - Sidewalk Patios for Restaurants Council members and staff discussed the merits and concerns of sidewalk patios. The opportunity might help revitalize downtown. Different designs were discussed to ensure safety. Home Depot was mentioned as being willing to supply a Boardwalk, as long as there company is recognized. Adjourn The meeting adjourned at 8:25 PM. Submitted by Rhonda Welborn January 15, 2009