Written and Submitted by Elizabeth Chaney

The Richmond City Council voted this evening on Resolution 2008 R152, a measure requiring all city construction projects to meet LEED Green Building Rating System’s Silver rating. All but one council member voted “Aye,” the one “No” coming from practicing architect and 1st district (West End) representative, Bruce Tyler.

Prior to the vote on whether or not to pass the measure, all council members considered amending the proposed resolution, to delay its implementation. This passed; and the green building standards set forth in the paper will not be enforced until 2010.

To develop the paper under consideration, a temporary Green Building Advisory Commission was formed under Chris Hilbert, 3rd district (Northside) representative and patron of the resolution. During the public hearing, several members of the commission stepped up to the podium in support of the measure, including civil engineer Chris Earley, and attorney Dan Sloane. Silver Persinger (not a member of the commission) came forward to speak in support of the resolution, and against its delayed coming into effect.

The implementation of this measure, with the formation of the Green Building Advisory Commission as a permanent entity in City Government represents a very positive development for Richmond. 7/8th’s of the council voiced support for the measure, and four requested to be added as a co-patron to the paper. We will see how this develops with submission of a city budget (city finance standing committee meets Thursday, January 15, 4:00PM, Council Chambers, City Hall-this meeting is open to the public!).