New municipal developments, such as the expanded public library and utility facility, will be equipped with solar and geothermal systems and will also achieve LEED certification.At the same time, the city is incentivizing green development in the private sector. “We’re awarding points to developers for clean energy systems and high-efficiency HVAC or green building certifications,” Daily explains.“It’s part of our affordable housing loan program.” Sun Prairie is also promoting state and federal programs, such as Focus on Energy and the Inflation Reduction Act, which offer rebates and tax incentives for sustainable upgrades.“We’re tying sustainability to affordability,” Daily says. While state codes limit the ability to mandate green construction, Daily is working on a countywide voluntary “stretch code” to reward developers for exceeding the minimum standards. “We’re trying to adopt one standard across Dane County, so developers know what to expect no matter where they build.” A REGIONAL MINDSET As part of the greater Madison metropolitan area, Sun Prairie embraces regionalism.“We don’t operate in a vacuum,” says Brown.“What happens in Madison, or neighboring Cottage Grove, impacts us—and vice versa.” The city is closely collaborating with Dane County, Madison Metro, and regional partners on a range of initiatives, from transportation to housing. “Our transit service is provided through a contract with Madison Metro,” Salmon explains.“It’s a win-win. We get affordable access, and Madison gets fewer cars on the road.” Sun Prairie also plays an active role in the Dane County Regional Housing Strategy (RHS), an initiative launched years before the housing crisis reached national headlines.“We’re on the executive implementation committee,”says Binz.“We’re working POWERING A RESPONSIBLE ENERGY FUTURE We don’t just work in Sun Prairie, we’re a part of it. So, when it comes to protecting the environment, we’re leading by example. Sun Prairie Utilities is committed to building a more affordable, sustainable, and cleaner future. We work with residents, businesses, and partners to save money, lower carbon emissions, and strengthen our community’s economy. With programs like Choose Renewable, Going Solar, and our Electric Vehicle initiatives, we are committed to doing what’s right for our local community and our planet. Find out more at sunprairieutilities.com. At Sun Prairie Utilities, we join forces with other local, not-for-profit utilities through WPPI Energy to share resources and lower costs. sunprairieutilities.com • (608) 837-5500 LEADING BY EXAMPLE TO ACHIEVE A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT. 203 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 08 SUN PRAIRIE, WI
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