HomeMy WebLinkAboutResolution - 2021-19 - Support of Better Building Standards in Mnnesota - 02/02/2021CITY OF EDEN PRAIRIE
HENNEPIN COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION NO. 2021-19
RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT BETTER BUILDINGS STANDARDS IN MINNESOTA
WHEREAS, there is overwhelming scientific consensus that climate change is a
significant threat to human civilization and is caused primarily by the combustion of fossil fuels;
and
WHEREAS, buildings account for approximately 40% of all the energy used in
Minnesota and new development practices have the opportunity to make the greatest long
standing impact; and
WHEREAS, the state of Minnesota is not on track to meet its 80% carbon reduction by
2050 goal; and
WHEREAS, the City of Eden Prairie has identified a goal of carbon neutrality by 2050
in its Climate Action Plan, and support for statewide policies such as building energy code
updates is listed as a supported regulatory action in said plan; and
WHEREAS, highly efficient buildings enhance financial and environmental resilience
for building owners and tenants; and
WHEREAS, high efficiency energy standards present opportumt1es for workers in
manufacturing, construction, and service sectors, and it is essential that workers play a role in
helping drive innovation towards a clean energy economy while creating and maintaining
family-sustaining jobs; and
WHEREAS, the "Improving Building Energy Efficiency in Commercial and Multi-
family Construction" report by the State of Minnesota recommends that the current statewide
commercial energy code be advanced and accelerated such that it achieves net zero
carbon/energy by 2036 instead of 2048.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council supports state
legislation leading to higher performing commercial buildings through advanced energy
performance standards.
ADOPTED by the Eden Prairie City Council on February, 2, 2021.
Ronald A. Case, Mayor
ATTEST: