The Sustainability Advisory Board unanimously approved a two-year work plan on May 13th that prioritizes municipal solar projects, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and high-performance building standards for city facilities. Sustainability Program Manager Natalie Meyer presented the plan, which had been deferred from the previous meeting to align with the City Commission's April 28th priorities work session.
The work plan encompasses several ongoing planning initiatives, including the Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District, the Integrated Water Resources Plan, the Urban Forest Management Plan, and the Bozeman Creek Vision Plan. Meyer added two new items since the last review: municipal solar installations—with projects underway at the library and water reclamation facility—and municipal EV charging stations. The board will focus on municipal facilities only; Meyer emphasized the city cannot mandate standards beyond state-adopted energy code for private development.
Board Member Jessica Wiese raised concerns about potential affordable housing trade-offs affecting environmental protections. Board Member Emma Bode, who serves as the City Commission liaison, reassured the board that no wetland or watercourse setback reductions are under consideration. Meyer scaled back a proposed Sustainable Development Awards program, recommending a feasibility review instead of a launch during this cycle, citing larger-than-anticipated staff requirements. The board also discussed hosting a presentation on the city's drought management plan given regional drought conditions. The Green Power Program agreement with NorthWestern Energy will receive detailed discussion at upcoming meetings.