In the world of politics it is very rare to see a politician who not only understands environmental issues but then also follows through and leads by example. Governor Timothy Kaine of Virginia is one of those rare individuals who is not just full of hot air but rather follows through on his pledges, leads by example and then seeks to make the necessary changes to facilitate sustainable practices for individuals like you and me.This past week Gov. Kaine toured the Virginia Association of Counties headquarters, a building which was constructed in 1866 and entirely renovated to LEED standards. While on the tour Gov. Kaine made the following remarks:

“VaCo has done a tremendous job of making environmental improvements to this historically important building,” says Kaine. “Legislation I signed this year will not only further my Renew Virginia initiative but will make it easier for localities to encourage green construction and green roofing. I hope localities look to the example set by VaCo to provide incentives for the development and deployment of green roofs across Virginia.”

The legislation the Governor refers to is:

  • HB 1975 and SB 1058 from Del. Lee Ware and Sen. Mary Margaret Whipple authorizes localities to grant regulatory flexibility and incentives to promote the construction of vegetative roofs and solar roofs on private homes and businesses. The incentives or regulatory flexibility could include a reduction in permit fees when green roofs are used, a streamlined process for the approval of building permits when green roofs are used, or a reduction in any gross receipts tax on green roof contractors as defined by the local ordinance.
     
  • HB 1828 from Del. William Fralin allows water authorities to offer rate incentives for vegetative roof construction. The bill also authorizes localities to establish a rate incentive program designed to encourage the use of green roofs in the construction and remodeling of residential and commercial buildings. A locality’s incentives must be based on the percentage of storm water runoff reduction the vegetative roof provides.

What are your local leaders doing to further sustainability?

 


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