HomeMy WebLinkAboutRES 4511Cascadia Consulting Group, Inc.
Adopted November 13, 2023
Table of ConTenTs | 2
CITY of RenTon Clean eConoMY sTRaTeGY 2.0
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Acknowledgments 3
Acronyms & Definitions 5
Executive Summary 6
Introduction & Purpose 12
Climate Change & Renton 13
CES 2.0 Development Process 20
How to Read the Strategies & Actions 27
Transportation & Land Use 28
Buildings & Energy 31
Consumption & Materials Management 35
Natural Systems & Water Resources 37
Community Resilience & Well-being 41
What’s Next? 44
aCknowledGMenTs | 3
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
A special “thank you” to all who participated in the planning process.
We appreciate your comments and collaboration to support the
development of the Renton CES 2.0.
Special thanks to everyone who participated in the online open
house, responded to online the community survey, or provided public
comment.
City Leadership
Mayor Armondo Pavone
City Council
Valerie O’Halloran, Council President
Ed Prince, Council President Pro-Tem
James Alberson, Jr.
Ryan McIrvin
Ruth Pérez
Carmen Rivera
Kim-Khánh V ăn
City Planning Commission
Dana Rochex, Commission Chair
Josephine Bayan, Commission Vice Chair
Jeffrey Kelly, Commission Secretary
Mara Fiksdal
Sunayana Kannur
Shannon Matson
Bruce McIntyre
Kevin Poole
Charles Seil
City Staff – Project Team
Chip Vincent, CED Administrator
Vanessa Dolbee, Planning Director
Angie Mathias, Long Range Planning Manager
Katie Buchl-Morales, Senior Planner
Martin Pastucha, Public Works Administrator
Linda Knight, Sustainability and Public Waste Manager
City Staff – Interdepartmental Team
Aaron Raymond, Community and Economic Development
Abdoul Gafour, Public Works
Amanda Askren, Community and Economic Development
Angie Mathias, Community and Economic Development
Bob Hanson, Public Works
Chip Vincent, Community and Economic Development
Dave Neubert, Communications & Engagement
Deborah Needham, Executive Services
Erica Schmitz, Parks and Recreation
Fatoumata Traore, Community and Economic Development
George Stahl, Public Works
Ian Gray, Parks and Recreation
Jason Lederer, Parks and Recreation
Jeff Minisci, Public Works
Jessie Kotarski, Community and Economic Development
Jim Seitz, Public Works
Joe Farah, Public Works
Joe Stowell, Public Works
Chief Jon Schuldt, Police
Kari Roller, Finance
Katie Nolan, Public Works
Kristin Trivelas, Finance
aCknowledGMenTs | 4
CITY of RenTon Clean eConoMY sTRaTeGY 2.0
City Staff – Interdepartmental Team (cont’d)
Liz Stewart, Parks and Recreation
Mark Santos-Johnson, Equity, Housing and Human Services
Martin Pastucha, Public Works
Maryjane Van Cleave, Communications & Engagement
Matthew Herrera, Community and Economic Development
Mike Stenhouse, Public Works
Nathan Nelson, Public Works
Patrice Kent, City Attorney
Rob Shuey, Community and Economic Development
Ron Kahler, Public Works
Ron Straka, Public Works
Russ Woodruff, Public Works
Shivani Lal, Public Works
Steve Heitman, Renton Regional Fire Authority
Vanessa Dolbee, Community and Economic Development
Vangie Garcia, Public Works
Young Yoon, Executive Services
Consultant Team – Cascadia Consulting Group
Gretchen Muller
Mary Ann Rozance
Alicia Fennell
Angela Pietschmann
Hailey Weinberg
Megan Lee
Maddie Seibert
Community Advisory Committee
Ben Newton, University of Washington
Christian Switzer, Renton Downtown Partnership
David Hoffman, Puget Sound Energy
Genevieve Hale-Case, GMD Development
Heather Trim, Zero Waste Washington
Jeffrey Dineen, South Renton Connection
Jennifer Thompson, Renton Downtown Partnership
Jessie Friedmann, Resident
Jim Pebles, University of Washington
Karla Pecorelli, Hyatt Regency
Kim Unti, Renton Downton Partnership
Larry Reymann, Environmental Science Center & Parks Commission
Mara Fiksdal, Planning Commission
Nazim Karmali, Park 5 Apartments
Sarah Thomas, Resident
Valerie O’Halloran, Renton City Council
aCRonYMs & defInITIons | 5
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
ACRONYMS & DEFINITIONS
K4C King County-Cities Climate Collaboration
A collaboration between King County and partner cities to coordinate
and enhance the effectiveness of local government climate and
sustainability action.
GHG Greenhouse gases
Heat-trapping gases that warm the atmosphere and cause climate
change, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous
oxide (N2O).
MTCOe Metric tons of CO2 equivalent
A common unit of measurement that represents an amount of a
greenhouse gas and communicates its impact on climate change in
terms of units of carbon dioxide (CO2), based on the global warming
potential (GWP) of the gas.
BIPOC Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC)
Refers to nonwhite community members and is used instead of People
of Color (POC) to highlight the specific discrimination experienced by
Black and Indigenous people. These communities often face multiple
environmental, social, and economic challenges that make them more
vulnerable to climate-related risks and less likely to have access to
resources and decision-making processes that shape climate policies.
RCP Representative Concentration Pathway
A greenhouse gas concentration trajectory adopted by the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Four pathways have been
adopted and each describes a different climate future. RCP 8.5, the
highest emissions scenario, projects a global temperature increase of
about 4.3˚C by 2100 relative to pre-industrial temperatures.
EVs Electric Vehicles
Vehicles that derive all or part of their power from electricity.
PSREA Puget Sound Regional Emissions Analysis
A comprehensive analysis of GHG emissions data for King, Kitsap,
Pierce, and Snohomish counties, led by King County and completed in
2022. This analysis was completed with regional partners such as K4C,
PSRC, and the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency.
BAU Business-as-usual
A scenario that assumes future activities do not significantly change
relative to current normal conditions and circumstances.
ABAU Adjusted Business-as-usual
A scenario that adjusts the BAU to account for GHG emissions
reductions expected from federal, state, and regional policy such as
vehicle emissions standards and renewable energy requirements.
PSRC Puget Sound Regional Council
A council made up of King, Kitsap, Pierce, and Snohomish counties,
cities and towns, port districts, transit agencies, and Tribes. PSRC works
as a regional collaborative to ensure that the Puget Sound region
continues to thrive by developing policies and coordinating regional
decisions related to the Puget Sound region’s growth, transportation
and economic development planning.
CETA Clean Energy Transformation Act
State legislation adopted in 2019 that requires utility providers to
supply carbon-free electricity that is 100% renewable or non-emitting
by 2045.
KPIs Key Performance Indicators
Values used to monitor and measure the trends and effectiveness of
overall sustainability performance.
VMT Vehicle Miles Traveled
A metric used in transportation planning to measure the cumulative
miles traveled by all vehicles in a geographic region over a given time
period.
TOD Transit-oriented Development
Walkable, pedestrian-oriented, and densely compacted mixed-use
(commercial, residential, entertainment) development centered around
or located near public transit stations.
PSE Puget Sound Energy
An energy utility providing electrical power and natural gas to the
Puget Sound region in Washington state.
IDT Interdepartmental Team
A group of key City staff, department heads, and implementation leads
who met at project milestones to review and give feedback on key
elements of the CES 2.0. The IDT includes representatives the following
departments: Community and Economic Development, Public Works,
Parks and Recreation, Renton Regional Fire Authority, Police, Finance,
City Attorney’s Office, Executive Services, and Equity, Housing, and
Human Services.
Community
Solar
Community Solar
A model in which the benefits of one collection of solar panels are
distributed within a community to those who purchase individual
shares, making it ideal for those who cannot install their own solar
panels.
exeCuTIve suMMaRY | 6
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Clean Economy Strategy Update
The Clean Economy Strategy update (“CES 2.0”) is designed to serve
as a roadmap of local policies to reduce Renton’s greenhouse gas
(GHG) emissions, enhance environmental sustainability, and prepare
for climate change, while maintaining and building a strong economy.
The update responds to changing conditions, including significant
population growth and new regional and state policies.
Building on the foundation of the original 2011 climate action and
mitigation plan by the same name, this document reflects the latest
climate science, is shaped by community input, and incorporates
consultant recommendations refined through work with dozens of
peer cities and tailored to Renton’s needs.
This CES update is a forward-looking, science-based plan that will
provide a framework that brings together city-wide planning efforts
and moves us toward our collective vision of net zero emissions and
community resilience in the face of climate impacts. It will guide the
City through updates to building and energy standards, transportation,
and waste and materials management systems, while protecting and
enhancing community resilience and healthy natural systems. The CES
2.0’s two overarching objectives are to:
• Build resilience among communities and natural systems to better
prepare Renton for climate impacts, including extreme weather
events.
• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions among City and community
operations, and introduce new sustainability practices.
Implementing the strategies and actions within the CES 2.0 will
support the creation of local green jobs, public health benefits, safer
walking and biking routes, more accessible transit, long-term energy
cost savings and a more resilient grid, and stronger emergency
management systems.
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CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
Renton’s Greenhouse Gas Emissions
We add greenhouse gases to the atmosphere by burning fossil fuels
for transportation and energy, using refrigerators and air conditioners,
and disposing solid waste into landfills. These GHGs trap heat in our
atmosphere, warming the globe and changing climate patterns.
Figure 1 (below) describes the sources of the Renton community’s
GHG emissions in 2019. The City of Renton is responsible for 1,485,394
MTCO2e, or 14.19 MTCO2e per person each year, which is about the
same as the average Washington resident. These 2019 emissions
demonstrate a 22% increase from Renton’s 2009 communitywide
emissions, however, due to the rapid increase in Renton’s population,
this only represents a 1% increase in per capita emissions. In addition,
since the 2009 inventory, calculation methodologies have become
more accurate, so due to the changes in calculation accuracy over time,
these inventories should not be considered as directly comparable.
According to the 2019 inventory, energy consumption represented the
largest portion (55%), followed by transportation (40%). The remaining
emissions (5%) come from solid waste disposal, wastewater treatment
processes, and refrigerant usage.
The City also investigated GHG emissions generated by City operations.
In 2019, City operations produced 37,783 MTCO2e, which is equal to
3% of communitywide emissions. Figure 2 (below) shows municipal
emissions. To reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the City will need
to lead by example to implement innovative climate actions and
encourage the community to do the same.
Requirements of state and federal policies, as well as regional climate
commitments, are expected to decrease Renton’s greenhouse gas
emissions from the City’s 2019 baseline by 49% by 2050. The strategies
and actions advanced in the CES 2.0 will help the City close the
remaining emissions gap to reach its climate goals.
1,485,394
MTCOe
Aviation Travel 12%
O-Road 3%
On-Road 25%
Natural Gas 14%
Fuel Oil 1%
Propane <1%
Solid Waste 1%
Wastewater <1%
Refrigerants 4%
Electricity 40%
Transportation
~40%
Energy
~55%
Other
*)#">Electricity 20%
Natural Gas 1%
Employee Commute 3%
Street Lights & Trac Signals 1%
On-Road 7%
O-Road 1%
Aviation 68%
Transportation
Buildings
& Facilities
37,783
MTCOe
Figure 1. Renton’s
2019 Communitywide
Emissions (in MTCO2e).Figure 2. Renton’s 2019
Municipal Operations
Emissions (in MTCO2e).
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CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
Climate Impacts Facing Renton
The world is already facing more frequent and severe weather as a
result of climate change. The Pacific Northwest, including Renton, is
experiencing more episodes of wildfire smoke, warmer temperatures,
and more variable precipitation – longer periods without rain or snow,
followed by more extreme storms.
In recent years, summer heatwaves have set new temperature records
across the region. By 2050, climate scientists anticipate an average
temperature increase of up to 7°F compared to temperatures from the
1990s. Winter temperatures will be warmer on average as well, leading
to lower levels of snowpack in the region, higher winter streamflow,
and lower summer streamflow, all of which will affect local ecosystems
and water availability. Warmer temperatures will also cause harm to
many vital habitats, have negative impacts on building infrastructure,
and increase energy demand.
Renton is projected to experience more intense precipitation, which
will cause more frequent and severe floods and landslides, especially
during the winter. During summer months, rainfall is expected to
decrease. Combined with increased temperatures, this will cause more
frequent drought and increase risk of urban wildfire.
These impacts will affect Renton’s communities in distinct ways, and
residents are increasingly experiencing the economic, health, and
ecosystem effects. The recommendations adopted in the CES 2.0 are
intended to improve community resiliency against severe weather
events and associated adverse impacts, especially for those most
vulnerable. It will be important for the City’s infrastructure and natural
systems to withstand and bounce back from climate-related impacts.
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CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
Developing the CES 2.0
The CES 2.0 was developed in a phased approach, starting with a
review of existing City and regional climate efforts, including review of
the original CES and measuring progress made in the decade since the
original plan was adopted.
Next, project consultants completed a greenhouse gas inventory to
quantify City and community emissions, followed by a qualitative
multicriteria analysis to score CES actions based on carefully selected
criteria that reflect Renton’s goals and priorities. The criteria used are as
follows: GHG emissions impact, resilience impact, estimated cost, level
of community support, feasibility to implement, equity, and potential
to create co-benefits.
The City offered 12 different engagement opportunities throughout
the planning process, where the community and staff identified goals,
developed strategies and actions, and recognized implementation
considerations for the CES 2.0:
• 1 online community survey translated into English, Chinese,
Tagalog, Vietnamese, and Spanish. Participants identified their
climate action priorities and provided feedback on draft strategies.
• 1 community open house to introduce the CES 2.0 project and
planning process and provide a space for community feedback
related to draft strategies and actions and to receive questions
about the project.
• 1 project webpage to provide an overview of the CES 2.0 planning
process and engagement opportunities, share importance of
climate and sustainability action, and solicit input on community
priorities and values.
• 5 workshops with the City’s Interdepartmental Team, a group of
key City staff, department heads, and implementation leads.
• 3 meetings of the Community Advisory Committee, a group that
includes representation from Renton residents, local business
owners and employers, community stakeholders, government
agencies, service providers, public officials, and others interested in
sustainability and climate mitigation.
• 1 online public comment period to provide Renton’s community
with a chance to weigh in on the draft CES 2.0 to help ensure that
the plan reflects community priorities.
The City will lead implementation of the actions in this plan, but
success will depend on collaboration and buy-in across the Renton
community: from residents, workers, and business owners alike.
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CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
Strategies & Key Actions
The CES 2.0 outlines 32 detailed actions across five focus areas that the
City will implement to achieve Renton’s goals of mitigating greenhouse
gas emissions, adapting to climate change impacts, and providing co-
benefits to Renton’s community. These actions are expected to provide
GHG emissions reductions, increase community resilience, improve
equity, and provide benefits to public health, natural environment, and
community mobility. The goals, strategies, and key actions* within each
focus area are shown below.
Transportation & Land Use (TL)
Goal: Promote sustainable land use planning and create a clean, efficient transportation system that
centers walking, bicycling, transit, and electric vehicles.
Strategies Key Actions
1 Decrease usage and improve efficiency
of fossil fuel-powered vehicles and
equipment.
• TL 1.1 Implement the Renton Trails and Bicycle Master Plan.
• TL 1.2 Advocate and partner regionally to improve transit network.
2 Encourage a transition towards cleaner
vehicles.
• TL 2.1 Create an EV plan.
Buildings & Energy (BE)
Goal: Ensure access to clean and reliable energy sources, expand renewable energy sources, support
efficient building standards, and create a more climate-resilient grid.
Strategies Key Actions
1 Transition to cleaner energy sources. • BE 1.1 Support community solar projects.
• BE 1.2 Promote renewable energy financing and incentives.
2 Support energy efficiency in buildings. • BE 2.1 Support financing for building energy upgrades.
• BE 2.2 Support equitable access to energy incentives and financing
through state, federal, or other programs.
*“Key actions” are the 1-2 actions within each strategy which scored the highest in the Multi-Criteria Analysis that was completed on all actions.
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CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
Consumption & Materials Management (CM)
Goal: Extend the lifecycle of materials, reduce new consumption, and improve city-wide recycling and
composting.
Strategies Key Actions
1 Increase waste diversion from landfill. •CM 1.1 Formalize the Sustainable Materials Management Plan and
implement key provisions.
2 Education and awareness.•CM 2.1 Lobby for state policy changes.
Water & Natural Systems (NS)
Goal: Preserve and enhance the integrity, health and abundance of natural areas, ecosystems, and
water resources.
Strategies Key Actions
1 Improve resilience of natural systems
to climate change impacts, including
flooding.
• NS 1.1 Enforce critical areas code and regulation.
• NS 1.2 Implement and enforce the Hazard Mitigation Plan and
Stormwater Management Program Plan.
2 Preserve, restore, and protect natural
systems to increase opportunities for
carbon sequestration.
•NS 2.1 Support food access and expand gardens.
•NS 2.2 Protect and increase tree canopy
Community Resilience & Well-being (CR)
Goal: Ensure all communities are prepared for climate related impacts and have equitable access to
resources and tools to adapt to climate change.
Strategies Key Actions
1 Increase community capacity,
particularly those most vulnerable, to
respond to future climate change.
•CR 1.1 Spur local, climate-related jobs.
•CR 1.2 Provide climate awareness resources and education.
2 Prepare Renton for future extreme
events.
•CR 2.1 Provide temporary housing and services during extreme
weather events and natural disasters.
•CR 2.2 Identify and communicate evacuation routes.
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CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
INTRODUCTION & PURPOSE
1 City of Renton. 2020. Renton Parks, Recreation and Natural Areas Plan.
https://www.rentonwa.gov/city_hall/parks_and_recreation/parks_planning_and_development/parks__recreation__and_natural_areas_plan)
2 King County - Cities Climate Collaboration home page.
https://kingcounty.gov/en/legacy/services/environment/climate/actions-strategies/partnerships-collaborations/k4c.aspx
Located on the southern shores of Lake Washington and close to
the southern intersection of the I-5 and I-405 freeways, Renton plays
an important role in the economic success, transportation function,
and cultural diversity of the Puget Sound region. Businesses thrive in
Renton, and so do the people who call this city home.
With over 1,200 acres of parks and playgrounds1 and a school district
that boasts four Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence from the U.S.
Department of Education, Renton is a standout city in both King
County and the state of Washington with its diverse mix of strong
neighborhoods, a thriving economy led by aviation and healthcare
industries, new and upcoming development, and a healthy selection of
recreational activities.
Renton is home to over 107,500 people, making it the fourth largest
city in King County and the eighth largest in Washington.
The City of Renton is updating its Clean Economy Strategy (CES) after
its first iteration in 2011, which aimed to integrate clean economy
objectives into the City’s practices, policies, and investments. The CES
2.0 is an opportunity for the City to build upon that foundation and
create a new plan that reflects the latest climate science and policy, is
tailored to Renton’s needs, incorporates the work done through other
planning processes, and—together with the Renton community—re-
envisions what a climate-smart future looks like. Through the strategies
and actions outlined in the CES, the City aims to reduce its greenhouse
gas (GHG) emissions, care for its natural resources, improve public
health and community mobility, and bolster resiliency in the face of
climate change and extreme weather events.
The City demonstrates a continued commitment to racial and social
equity by sustaining and fostering an Equity Commission, focusing on
building an inclusive city, maintaining the Mayor’s Inclusion Task Force,
and now, by prioritizing equity throughout the CES planning process.
The CES process was planned and executed in a way that included
ample opportunities for residents, businesses, and other partners to
participate in building the City’s equitable and climate-resilient future.
Additionally, while drafting and revising CES actions, we conducted a
qualitative analysis of draft actions through multiple lenses, including
an equity lens, to determine equity considerations for each action.
In addition, Renton’s strategic regional collaboration was a guiding
principle in the CES development. The strategies and actions outlined
in this CES update are intended to form and strengthen partnerships
with local businesses and community groups, regional entities, local
governments, and other stakeholders. Renton is a founding member
of the King County Cities Climate Collaboration (K4C), a partnership
of 22 local governments that have allied to share resources and
leverage abilities to accelerate climate action in King County.2 Through
participation in this collaboration, Renton strives to not only meet
Washington State mandates for climate action and greenhouse gas
emissions, but also be a leader in sustainability and community
resilience by exceeding state requirements.
The CES 2.0 is a framework for sustainability action across the
community and in government operations, and a roadmap to
achieving Renton’s goals through a suite of climate adaptation and
mitigation actions. These are actions that City staff, community
stakeholders, agency partners, and businesses will need to carry out to
help the City reach its greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets.
ClIMaTe ChanGe & RenTon | 13
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
CLIMATE CHANGE & RENTON
3 Data from UW Climate Impact Group’s Heavy Precipitation Projections. Data are based on an RCP 8.5 scenario and are shown at a spatial resolution of 12km across the
Puget Sound. Grid cell LAT 47.32, LONG -122.151, Row-Col 72-62.
Which climate impacts will affect Renton?
Wildfire smoke
The Pacific Northwest is already facing historic fire seasons. In
Washington, warming temperatures, reduced snowpack, low summer
streamflow and reduced summer precipitation will contribute to
longer, drier fire seasons and greater wildfire risk. The city will
continue to experience episodes of wildfire smoke, which can
severely degrade local air quality. People who have chronic
respiratory illnesses like asthma will be more sensitive to and
experience higher rates of respiratory illnesses.
Variable Precipitation
By 2050, precipitation intensity in Renton is expected to increase by
28%, 3 resulting in more extreme and frequent flooding and landslides,
particularly during winter months (this change is relative to 1990s
baseline assuming a high-emissions scenario, known as RCP 8.5).
Flooding: Increases in heavy rain events, decreased winter
snowpack, and earlier snowmelt will likely increase flooding in areas
like the Cedar River and Maple Valley Road and expand flood hazard
areas, which may affect access to Renton’s 1,200 acres of parks,
green spaces, habitats, and infrastructure in Renton.
Landslides: Heavy rains are associated with an increase
in landslides. Landslides will likely continue to affect key
transportation routes, such as Maple Valley Road along SR-169, and
the area at risk for landslides may expand. Landslide damage may
have significant implications for the local workforce, regional trade
of goods, and emergency services.
Drought: Increasing temperatures particularly in summer months,
coupled with a predicted decrease in rainfall (8.3% decrease
in summer precipitation by 2050) will lead to more frequent
drought conditions. Drought can impact groundwater supply and
wastewater systems, aquatic ecosystem health and other sectors.
Increased Temperatures
Average high temperatures in Renton may increase by 7°F by 2050, and
average maximum daytime temperature by 7.5°F (change relative to
1990s assuming a high-emissions scenario, known as RCP 8.5). Renton
is also likely to experience more heat waves, or longer periods with
elevated temperatures.
Snowpack and stream conditions: Rising temperatures will lead
to more winter precipitation falling as rain instead of snow, resulting
in a decline in snowpack. This shift will impact water supply and
ecosystem health, with increased winter streamflow but lower
summer streamflow expected in most locations.
Impacts on infrastructure and energy: Higher temperatures can
lead to heat-related damage, such as expansion and cracking of
bridges and roads, reduced structural integrity of buildings, and
strain on utility systems (e.g.., electrical grids) which can contribute
to shorter lifespans and increased maintenance needs. Furthermore,
the increased demand for cooling during hotter periods will
strain energy systems, potentially leading to blackouts or energy
shortages.
Impacts on ecosystems: Increased temperatures and heat waves
will harm and exceedingly stress vital ecosystems and habitats in
and around Renton, including iconic species such as Pacific Salmon
and Great Blue Heron.
ClIMaTe ChanGe & RenTon | 14
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
How will climate change impact Renton’s communities?
4 U.S. Census Bureau. 2019. 2019 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. https://data.census.gov/table?q=Renton+city;+Washington&tid=ACSST5Y2019.S0101.
5 U.S. Census Bureau. 2020. Race: Total Population. https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/rentoncitywashington.
6 The three most prominent Asian racial groups are Chinese (5.2%), Asian Indian (2.1%), and Filipino (2.0%).
Climate change will not affect Renton’s communities evenly. Some
communities are more vulnerable to climate change. This can be
because they are:
• More exposed to climate change impacts (e.g., live in areas with
less tree cover)
• More sensitive to climate impacts when they are exposed to them
(e.g., have a chronic illness)
• Less able to adapt and change their environments (e.g., are low-
income or live on a fixed income)
It is important to understand how vulnerable Renton communities
are to climate change so the City can adequately protect and support
those who need the most help. Some of the common demographics
that are disproportionately vulnerable to climate change are
highlighted below. Also vulnerable to climate change are those who
are pregnant, unhoused, work outside, and living with a chronic illness..
Age
Age
% of Renton’s
Population
Under 5 years old4 6.6%
Over 65 years old 11.2%
Typically, children under the age of five (6.6% of Renton’s population)
and people over the age of 65 (11.2% of Renton’s population) are more
sensitive to changes in temperature and poor air quality.
Race
Race
% of Renton’s
Population
BIPOC individuals5 60%
Asian alone 6 25.9%
Hispanic or Latinx 15.4%
Black or African American alone 9.9%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone 0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native alone 0.4%
Some Other Race alone 0.6%
Two or more races 7.1%
BIPOC communities typically face more exposure to climate impacts
than white communities, often residing in areas with higher pollution
levels and less access to green spaces, exacerbating their vulnerability
to climate-related health risks. Moreover, due to socioeconomic
disparities and historical inequities, impacts of climate change may
amplify their vulnerability to the adverse impacts of climate change.
ClIMaTe ChanGe & RenTon | 15
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
Language
Language
% of Renton’s
Population
Households that speak limited English7 14.9%
A high percentage of Renton’s population speak a language other
than English at home. Individuals with Limited English Proficiency
(LEP), who speak English “Less than very well,” typically face barriers
in accessing critical information, emergency services, and community
support. Language barriers can hinder their ability to understand and
respond to climate-related risks, making it more difficult for them
to effectively adapt and protect themselves during climate-related
events, exacerbating their vulnerability in times of crisis.
7 U.S. Census Bureau. 2019. 2019 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. https://data.census.gov/table?text=B16001&t=Language+Spoken+at+Home&g=160XX-
00US5357745&tid=ACSDT5Y2015.B16001
8 U.S. Census Bureau. 2019. 2019 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. https://data.census.gov/table?q=Renton+city;+Washington&t=Disabili-
ty&tid=ACSST5Y2019.S1810.
9 U.S. Census Bureau. 2019. 2019 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. https://data.census.gov/table?q=renton+washington+income&tid=ACSST5Y2019.S1901.
10 47.8% of people live in a household earning less than $74,000 a year. Extremely low income is classified as 80% of median household income, which in Renton is $64,000
(median household income is around $80,000). Data for a median income range ending at $64,000 was unavailable, so this data set rounds up to include incomes of $74,000
or less as low or very low income.
Disability
Disability
% of Renton’s
Population
Individuals with disabilities8 10.7%
Individuals with disabilities will face amplified health risks, potential
disruptions to life-sustaining medical equipment, and challenges in
evacuation and accessing essential services during extreme events
(e.g.., floods or landslides). For example, limited mobility or reliance
on assistive devices can make it difficult to access transportation or
evacuate quickly, potentially placing people experiencing this at
higher risk during emergencies.
Income
Income
% of Renton’s
Population
Low-income individuals9,10 47.8%
Low-income individuals encounter reduced access to essential care
and services, such as healthcare. Low-income individuals also pay a
higher proportion of their income toward energy costs, which are
continuing to rise in response to climate change impacts, therefore
increasing the financial burden on low-income individuals, caused
by energy costs. Additionally, financial limitations hinder their ability
to relocate or recover from climate-related disruptions, while also
limiting their capacity to afford necessary adaptations to their homes
and vehicles, leading to increased vulnerability to issues like flooding,
higher energy usage, and frequent mold events.
ClIMaTe ChanGe & RenTon | 16
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
Greenhouse Gas Inventory & Forecast Results
Renton’s Carbon Footprint
When Renton’s community burns fossil fuels, such as consuming
gasoline and diesel for transportation or using natural gas for heating
homes, greenhouse gases are emitted into the atmosphere. There,
these gases trap the sun’s heat and increase the Earth’s average surface
temperature.
To understand where Renton’s GHGs are coming from and how
activities in the city are contributing to climate change, the City of
Renton completed its first GHG inventory to calculate emissions
produced in 2009. Based on these calculations, it is estimated that
Renton produced approximately 1,227,089 metric tons of CO2
equivalent (MTCO2e), or 14.00 MTCO2e per capita that year.
In 2021, the inventory was updated to calculate emissions for 2019.
Figure 1 represents Renton’s 2019 communitywide GHG emissions.
Residents, businesses, manufacturers, and visitors produced 1,485,394
metric tons of CO2 equivalent (MTCO2e), equal to approximately
14.19 MTCO2e per capita (16% higher than King County’s 2019 per
capita emissions). Since the 2009 inventory, calculation methods have
become significantly more accurate, so while the results of these two
inventories are not perfectly comparable, they do indicate a significant
decrease in calculated emissions per capita from 2009 to 2019.
In 2019, energy consumption represented the largest portion (55%),
followed by transportation (40%). The remaining emissions (5%)
come from solid waste disposal, wastewater treatment processes, and
refrigerant usage.
In 2019, Renton’s municipal operations produced 37,783 MTCO2e,
which equals less than 3% of the total community emissions.
1,485,394
MTCOe
Aviation Travel 12%
O-Road 3%
On-Road 25%
Natural Gas 14%
Fuel Oil 1%
Propane <1%
Solid Waste 1%
Wastewater <1%
Refrigerants 4%
Electricity 40%
Transportation
~40%
Energy
~55%
Other Electricity 20%
Natural Gas 1%
Employee Commute 3%
Street Lights (Electricity) 1%
On-Road 7%
O-Road 1%
Aviation 68%
37,783
MTCOe
Renton
Municipal
Airport Vehicle
Fleets
Buildings
& Facilities
Figure 1. Renton’s 2019 Communitywide Emissions (in MTCO2e).
Figure 2. Renton’s 2019 Municipal Operations Emissions (in MTCO2e).
ClIMaTe ChanGe & RenTon | 17
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
Future Emissions
Without significant climate action, Renton’s emissions will continue
to grow with its population. This means that there will be more cars
burning fuels, more solid waste, and more homes that will need
lighting, heating, and cooling.
To understand future emissions and plan new climate actions, the City
used a model developed through the Puget Sound Regional Emissions
Analysis (PSREA). The model shows projected emissions through
2050, based on the data from the GHG inventory updates completed
through PSREA using 2019 data, as well as regional forecasts. Emissions
data from the year 2019 was used because it was the last year prior to
the COVID-19 pandemic, which had major impacts on many carbon-
intensive activities such as commuting to work, and personal and
business travel, and would not misrepresent future emissions by
starting from a deceptively low baseline due to COVID-19.
Figure 3 illustrates future emissions: 1) in a business as usual (BAU)
scenario, if no climate action is taken; 2) in an adjusted business-as-
usual (ABAU) scenario, if current federal, state, and regional policies
are enacted and enforced; and 3) if the City relies on sector-specific
policies and takes additional actions to meet its emissions targets.
3.0 M
2.5 M
2.0 M
1.5 M
1.0 M
500 K
0
20072019203020402050Busines
s
As
U
s
u
al
Reductions from State,
Federal, and Regional
Policies
Remaining emissions to
address through local
policies and actionMTCOeWA Energy Code
WA Clean Buildings Act
Federal Vehicle Regulations
WA Clean Fuel Standards
WA Internal Combustion Engine Ban
PSRC Regional Transportation Plan
WA Hydrouorocarbon Policies
WA Clean Energy Transformation Act
WA Climate Commitment Act
Figure 3. Renton’s BAU and ABAU emissions forecast through 2050 (in MTCO2e).
Without any climate action,
Renton’s total GHG emissions are
expected to increase 62% from
2019 to 2050.
With the aid of state and federal
policies and regional climate
commitments, Renton’s total
GHG emissions are expected to
decrease 49% by 2050.
ClIMaTe ChanGe & RenTon | 18
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
Local Sustainability Context
Washington State is a leader in climate action both in the Pacific
Northwest and nationwide. The strategies and actions developed
for the CES 2.0 align with recent statewide legislation and build on
Renton’s local successes. Some key state policies include:
• 2021 Climate Commitment Act which places an economy-
wide cap on carbon to meet state GHG reduction targets and be
consistent with best available science.
• 2021 Clean Fuel Standard which reduces overall carbon intensity
of fuels through use of clean fuels or purchasing clean fuel credits.
• 2019 Clean Energy Transformation Act (CETA) which requires a
phase-out of coal by 2025, carbon-neutral electricity sales by 2030,
and 100% clean energy by 2045.
• 2019 Clean Buildings Act which establishes a state energy
performance standard and other measures for new and existing
large buildings over 50,000 square feet with an early adopter
incentive program.
• 2019 HFC Superpollutants Act which requires phasing out
carbon-intensive HFC Superpollutants in new equipment, using
climate friendly alternatives in compliance with the Act’s 2020-
2024 phasing timeline.
As a founding member of K4C, Renton works to enhance the
effectiveness and swiftness of local government climate and
sustainability action through regional partnerships. The Puget Sound
region has additional collaborations such as the Puget Sound Regional
Council (PSRC) and Puget Sound Climate Preparedness Collaborative
that work to increase regional coordination and inform regional
sustainability.
By updating our Clean Economy Strategy, we are demonstrating
our continued commitment to climate leadership through new and
continued actions, in collaboration with others or on our own.
ClIMaTe ChanGe & RenTon | 19
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
Renton’s Sustainability Plans & Policies
Since the development of the CES 1.0 in 2011, Renton has developed and implemented a full suite of plans and policies that contribute to local
sustainability. Some of these plans and policies are outlined below.
Beyond these plans and policies, the City has achieved other
sustainability accomplishments including:
• Formalizing climate and sustainability goals in City planning
documents, including the Business Plan (2022-2027) and
Comprehensive Plan (2015).
• Serving as a founding member of K4C in 2012, and continuing
participation with the regional collaboration since its creation.
• Receiving a grant from the Department of Commerce to pursue
a planned action ordinance and complete an Environmental Impact
Statement for the Rainier/Grady Junction Transit-Oriented Subarea
Plan (2022).
• Updating the City’s Urban Forest Management Plan which
promotes a robust urban forest to improve resiliency and mitigate
the anticipated effects of climate change.
• Updating the City’s community and municipal greenhouse gas
inventories to understand the city’s 2019 carbon footprint.
• Receiving nine Governor’s Smart Communities Awards from the
WA State Department of Commerce, which recognize thoughtful
growth planning and projects that will contribute to thriving
communities, a prosperous economy, and sustainable infrastructure.
Renton has received awards for the following efforts:
• City Center Community Plan and 20-year Parks Plan (2012)
• Sunset Area Community Plan (2013)
• Meadow Crest Early Learning Center and Meadow Crest
Accessible Playground (2014)
• Kirkland Avenue Townhomes (2015)
• Downtown Renton Library (2016)
• Galvanizing Art Project (2017)
• Sartori Elementary School (2018)
• Willowcrest Townhomes (2021)
• Rainier/Grady Junction TOD Subarea Plan (2022)
2011
City adopts
CES 1.0
2012
Renton is a founding
member of K4C
2015
Comprehensive
Plan
2018
• Civic Core Vision and
Action Plan
• Tree Canopy Cover
Report
2019
Trails and Bicycle
Master Plan
2020
Parks, Recreation
and Natural Areas
Plan
2021
• Rainier/Grady Junction Subarea Plan
• ADA Plan for Right-of-Way
• Tree Inventory Updates
• Housing Action Plan
• 2022-2027 Business Plan
2022
• 10 Year Urban Forest
Management Plan
• Water Systems
Master Plan
2011 2012 2018 20222015201920202021
Ces 2.0 develoPMenT PRoCess | 20
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
CES 2.0 DEVELOPMENT PROCESS
The strategies and actions outlined in the CES 2.0 represent the culmination of an iterative development process that ensured
strategies and actions would align with local, state, and regional progress, address key climate vulnerabilities and sources of
emissions, and reflect community and City priorities.
Communication and Engagement Strategies
The City and the Community Advisory Committee planned for an
equitable and inclusive community engagement processes with
multiple opportunities for the community and City staff to provide
input at each step. The community helped develop and identify
goals and targets, strategies and actions, vulnerable assets, and
implementation considerations. Engagement was divided into three
phases detailed below, offering a variety of engagement opportunities
across various platforms.
Phase 1 Goal Setting – setting goals for the Clean
Economy Strategy 2.0
Phase 2 Action Development – developing
strategies and actions to reduce emissions,
build resilience, and improve sustainability
Phase 3 Plan Development – creating the Clean
Economy Strategy 2.0.
PHASE 1
Goal Setting
PHASE 2
Action Development
PHASE 3
Plan Development
Setting goals for the Clean
Economy Strategy 2.0
Developing strategies and actions
to reduce emissions, build
resilience, and improve
sustainability
Creating the Clean
Economy Strategy 2.0
5 Workshops
(7-23 IDT members
per workshop)
3 Community Advisory
Committee meetings
(7-10 Committee members
per meeting)
1 Open House
(17 participants)
1 Website
(681 site visits,
423 unique users)
1 Survey
(305 respondents)
1 Virtual
Comment Period
(97 comments)
12 Total Engagement Opportunities
Ces 2.0 develoPMenT PRoCess | 21
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
Engagement Method
Number of
Events Audience Purpose Metrics
Total Engagement Opportunities: 12
Survey
5/18-6/23
1 survey
translated
into English,
Chinese, Tagalog,
Vietnamese, and
Spanish
General
Public
Identified community priorities as they relate to climate action
and provided feedback on draft strategies.
• 305 respondents
Interdepartmental
Team workshops
12/6/21
2/3/22
3/21/22
6/30/22
9/22/22
5
workshops
IDT members Throughout the course of the five meetings, IDT members
identified goals and priorities for the Plan, identified climate
vulnerable assets, reviewed and provided feedback on
draft strategies and actions, and identified implementation
considerations related to community, partnerships and equity.
• 7-23 IDT members
per workshop
Community Advisory
Committee meetings
2/8/22
5/18/22
9/28/22
3
meetings
CAC members Identified climate impacts and vulnerabilities in Renton,
considerations for developing actions, focus areas, and strategies
and community engagement considerations, provided input on
identified implementation considerations related to community,
partnerships and equity.
• 7-10 Committee
members per
meeting
Open House
5/25/22
1
open house
General
Public
Community members learned about the CES 2.0 project and
planning process, provided feedback on draft strategies and
actions and asked questions about the project to City staff.
• 17 participants
Website
Launched February 2022
1
website
General
Public
Provided an overview of the CES 2.0, up-to-date information on
the planning process, and engagement opportunities.
• 681 site visits
• 423 unique users
Virtual public
comment period
Fall 2023
1
virtual comment
period
General
Public
Provided an opportunity for Renton’s community to review and
comment on the draft CES 2.0.
• 97 comments
received
11
Total Engagement Opportunites
Ces 2.0 develoPMenT PRoCess | 22
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
Community Priorities
Throughout the community engagement process, the public had the opportunity to review strategies and actions. This feedback
directly influenced the development and refinement of CES priority actions. Below are direct quotes from participants.
Buildings & Energy
Reduce energy consumption and increase grid resilience and
reliability
• “…Improve power infrastructure to create a more climate-resilient
grid by burying power lines underground to reduce fire hazards
from sparks and power outages from more frequent or severe
storms caused by climate change.”
Increase building energy efficiency (require new buildings to be
solar and EV charging ready)
• “…Offer more rebates to homeowners to improve energy
efficiency for items like attic/crawlspace/wall insulation; heating,
cooling and solar power systems; and energy-efficient appliances
such as water heaters, washers/dryers, stoves/ovens, refrigerators,
etc.”
Expand city and community renewable energy sources
• “Maximize use of alternate energy sources such as wind and
solar…”
• “新能源产品” (Mandarin Chinese)
English: Renewable energy products.
Transportation & Land Use
Reduce reliance on fossil fuel powered vehicles and incentivize an
equitable transition to electric vehicles
• “I think we need to consider smaller (low-income) families when
switching to only energy and anti-gasoline. For example, if we
switch Seattle to only electric cars, that may make it so that
everyone has to purchase a new car, and not everyone can afford
that. Most people can’t.”
• “Improving the walkability of neighborhoods outside of downtown
to reduce reliance on cars.”
Expand safe biking and walking infrastructure
• “Make walking and biking safe, make public transit efficient and
frequent. Transition buses to electric vehicles.”
Promote and expand access to transportation alternatives, such as
public transit
• “Develop infrastructure to better support non-motorized
transportation alternatives with a focus on bike/ped/non-
motorized and public transit.”
Ces 2.0 develoPMenT PRoCess | 23
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
Consumption & Materials Management
Reduce waste generation and increase waste diversion, especially
organic waste
• “Naniniwala akong mahalaga ang pagbawas ng mga basura para
sa usaping ito.” (Tagalog)
English: “I believe that reducing waste is important in this issue.”
Practice sustainable purchasing and promote a circular economy
• “Establish a circular economy in Renton—the DT businesses are
all in that vein. There are grants through USDA / Department of ag
that can help build that.”
• “Increase sustainable consumption.”
Expand and improve recycling opportunities
• “Offer more opportunities for people to dispose of hard to get rid
of things (styrofoam, old paint, packing materials, etc.)...”
Water & Natural Systems
Increase carbon sequestration opportunities
• “Support farming practices that sequester soil.”
Preserve, restore, and protect natural systems
• “Implement biodiversity and protect the natural environment.”
Increase green space, tree canopy cover, access to food and
gardens, and outdoor recreation
• “Utilize the wisdom of native peoples for land and forest
management. Would also love to see community food forest
like beacon Hill that both sequesters carbon and provides food
security.”
• “Magkaroon ng mas maraming lupain/espasyo para sa green/open
spaces.” (Tagalog)
English: “Have more land/space for green/open spaces.”
Community Resilience & Well-being
Educate and prepare the community for future extreme events
• “Offer guidance on creating preparedness kits for individuals in
their homes, provide these kits for low income residents.”
Center social equity and vulnerable community members
• “Prepare those most vulnerable (unsheltered, disabled, low
income, first language other than English, etc.) for future extreme
events.”
Develop green jobs
• “Local green jobs should be prioritized for people in the area (who
live/work and are from Renton, with representation from across
Renton communities).”
Ces 2.0 develoPMenT PRoCess | 24
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
How Community Feedback Shaped the CES
Renton’s approach to the development of the CES 2.0 resulted in a plan
that reflects the priorities and values of the community and relied on
community and stakeholder buy-in. The examples below highlight just
a few examples of how community feedback was incorporated into the
development of strategic actions.
At the second Community Advisory Committee workshop,
participants recommended including an action that
addressed gas powered lawnmowers. We added action
TL1.7: Transition to electric off-road equipment such as
lawnmowers and leaf blowers.
Community members identified lobbying at state level for
changes as a missing action. We developed action CM2.1:
Lobby for state policy changes.
Participants suggested that action CR 1.1: Spur local,
climate-related jobs include partnering with local
schools, providing incentives for green certifications
for businesses, and aligning with other efforts in King
County where possible. We added content to the action
description to reflect these ideas:
• “Partner with Renton Technical College to identify and
promote job training programs for green industries.”
• “Work with businesses on guidelines for safe work in
outdoor environments during periods of heat and
poor air quality to keep workers safe. Partner with
State and County health departments.”
Ces 2.0 develoPMenT PRoCess | 25
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
Action Development Process
We used multiple quantitative and qualitative analysis methods to
ensure that the CES 2.0 is based on data, the latest climate science, as
well as City and community priorities. These analyses include:
• Greenhouse Gas Inventory: Inventoried Renton’s past
community and municipal GHG emissions for a baseline year to
provide insight into where the city’s emissions come from, guiding
the development of actions targeted at the highest emissions
sources.
• Carbon Wedge Analysis: Analyzed Renton’s future emissions in a
variety of different scenarios including one in which no additional
climate action is taken and one in which state and federal policies
result in reduced emissions, as well as modeling the impact that
various municipal and community climate actions will have on the
city’s emissions.
• Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA): Ranked actions based on various
criteria. This process was designed to make sure the actions
represent City staff priorities while achieving the City’s climate
goals. The MCA assigns scores to each action across several criteria
and arrives at an overall priority score for each action; these are
used to create a prioritized shortlist of actions. The criteria used
to analyze these actions in this analysis are shown in the table at
right.
By completing these analyses, we have arrived at a final list of CES
strategies and actions that are aimed to address the City’s highest
priority areas and reduce overall community GHG emissions.
Criterion Weight Definition
GHG
Emissions
Impact
0.20 What is the scope and likelihood that the
action will reduce GHG emissions or enhance
resiliency? By when? Can impact be measured
and tracked?
Resilience
Impact
0.20 What is the scope and likelihood that the action
will retain or create jobs, attract industries,
and help the community adapt and survive
amid extreme events (e.g., public health
crisis, extreme weather events, and economic
downturns)?
Cost 0.15 What is the cost of implementation?
Equity 0.15 Does the action reduce vulnerability for all
populations? Are benefits distributed equitably
across the community? Do they redress historic
inequities?
Community
Support
0.10 Do residents and community stakeholders/
partners support/agree with the action?
Feasibility 0.10 What is the City's level of control over
implementation? Are there regulatory, political,
or technological constraints related to action
implementation? Is the action adaptable to new
technologies?
Co-benefits 0.10 Does the action support public health, mobility,
and the natural environment?
Ces 2.0 develoPMenT PRoCess | 26
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
CES 2.0 Scope
The CES 2.0 is framed around five focus areas. Across all focus areas, there is emphasis on both climate change mitigation and adaptation, as well as
social and racial equity, municipal leadership, and business and community participation.
Focus Area Goal Strategies
Transportation &
Land Use
Promote sustainable land use planning and create a clean,
efficient transportation system that centers walking,
bicycling, transit, and electric vehicles.
• Decrease usage and improve efficiency of fossil fuel-powered
vehicles and equipment.
• Encourage a transition towards cleaner vehicles.
Buildings & Energy Ensure access to clean and reliable energy sources, expand
renewable energy sources, support efficient building
standards, and create a more climate-resilient grid.
• Support energy efficiency in buildings.
• Promote cleaner energy sources.
Consumption
& Materials
Management
Extend the lifecycle of materials, reduce new consumption,
and improve city-wide recycling and composting.
• Increase waste diversion from landfill.
• Promote sustainable consumption and reduce waste
generation to reduce upstream GHG emissions from goods and
materials.
Water & Natural
Systems
Preserve and enhance the integrity, health and abundance of
natural areas, ecosystems, and water resources.
• Improve resilience of natural systems to climate change
impacts, including flooding.
• Preserve, restore, and protect natural systems to increase
opportunities for carbon sequestration.
Community
Resilience & Well-
being
Ensure all communities are prepared for climate related
impacts and have equitable access to resources and tools to
adapt to climate change.
• Prepare Renton for future extreme events.
• Increase community capacity - particularly those most
vulnerable - to respond to future climate change.
how To Read The sTRaTeGIes & aC TIons | 27
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
HOW TO READ THE STRATEGIES & ACTIONS
Each of the focus area sections provides an overview of the topic and its importance to the CES 2.0. Then, each section contains a
detailed table listing the goals, strategies, and actions.
11 Benefit icons are included for actions which were given a score of 3 to 5 on the relevant criteria during the Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA) completed during the Action
Development Process. Many actions which did not receive significant scores across these benefit areas have still been included in this CES update, as they may provide these
benefits at a less significant scale or may provide additional benefits not encompassed by this MCA.BENEFITS KEYEmissions reduction impact Likely to significantly reduce GHG emissions.
Resilience impact Likely to benefit climate adaptation for a wide range of the community.
Equity Likely to benefit communities that face historical or current inequities.
Public health Likely to support public health for a wide range of the community.
Natural environment Likely to directly benefit many natural systems in the city or some critical or high-priority natural systems.
Mobility Likely to support mobility across many areas or support mobility for critical or high-priority areas.
Action
short name
$, $$, or
$$$ for the
City and/or
Community
Short (0-5
years), Medium
(5-10 years)
or Long (10+
years)
More detailed
description of
the action
Strategy
number and
name
Action ID
number
Significant
anticipated
benefits11
indicated with
icons
TRansPoRTaTIon & land use | 28
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
TRANSPORTATION & LAND USE
Goal: Promote sustainable land use planning and create a clean, efficient transportation system
that centers walking, bicycling, transit, and electric vehicles.
Transportation and land use are critical elements of a sustainable, livable, and accessible Renton. Transportation is Renton’s
second largest source of greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 40% (590,865 MTCO2e) of total community wide emissions
in 2019. Of the 25% of emissions from transportation, 63% come from on-road vehicles, 29% from aviation, and 8% from vehicles/
equipment. To meet our emissions reduction target, we have included actions that reduce emissions from fossil fuel-powered
vehicles and encourage a transition towards cleaner vehicles.
Key Achievements / Progress to Date
• The Commute Trip Reduction Program encourages City staff and staff at other large
employers to use vanpools, etc. to reduce single-occupancy vehicle commute trips.
• Several amendments to Renton Municipal Code to support dense, walkable
neighborhoods, including option density bonus and allowing 2.5 times the density
for cottage housing.
• Renton has adopted Complete Streets regulations.
• The City partnered with King County Metro to expand and promote the Metro Flex
program, an on-demand transit service.
• The City facilitated and adopted the Rainier/Grady Junction TOD Subarea Plan.
• The City’s launch of the Safer Access to Neighborhood Destinations (SAND) pilot
program designed and deployed community-centric safe routes to neighborhood
destinations in the Benson and the West Hill neighborhoods.
TRansPoRTaTIon & land use | 29
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
TL Strategies and Actions
TL 1: Decrease usage and improve efficiency of fossil fuel-powered vehicles and equipment.
ID Action Description Benefits
Implementation
Timing Cost
TL 1.1 Implement the
Renton
Trails and Bicycle
Master
Plan
Implement the Renton Trails and Bicycle Master Plan, promote education and
outreach about the plan actions, and ensure Renton’s codes and standards advance
the implementation of the Trails and Bicycle Plan cross sections through appropriate
requirements, phasing, and incentives.
Develop and designate appropriate pedestrian and bicycle commuter routes along
minor arterial and collector arterial corridors.
Update plan on a regular cadence for it to remain relevant and the City be eligible for
local, state, and federal grant funding.
Short-term $$$
TL 1.2 Advocate and
partner regionally
to improve transit
network
Continue to advocate and engage in regional opportunities to improve the transit
network to (1) ensure there are safe non-motorized connections to transit facilities
and (2) expand transit access to neighborhoods that are not currently served by
transit and to services, jobs, and activities for seniors, people with disabilities, and low-
income residents.
Ongoing $$
TL 1.3 Promote transition
to electric and green
fuels at airports and
air travel
Partner with local airports, SeaTac, and regional stakeholders to transition ground
support vehicles and equipment to electric or clean fuel vehicles; promote and
incentivize sustainable aviation fuels; increase operating efficiency of aircraft; lobby/
advocate for mandatory fuel economy requirements (to be set by the U.S. Federal
Aviation Administration).
Long-term $
TL 1.4 Increase density
around transit
Continue to plan and implement changes to support higher-density housing and
mixed use, compact centers where appropriate, especially along planned high
capacity transit lines, frequent transit routes and in opportunity areas identified by the
King County Housing Authority.
Prioritize affordable housing where appropriate to ensure equitable access to transit
and amenities.
Long-term $$
BENEFITS KEY
Emissions reduction impact Resilience impact Equity Public health Natural environment Mobility
TRansPoRTaTIon & land use | 30
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
ID Action Description Benefits
Implementation
Timing Cost
TL 1.5 Transition to electric
off-road equipment
such as lawnmowers
and leaf blowers
Conduct outreach and education to residents and businesses on decarbonizing
and electrification of off-road vehicles and equipment. Incentives and/or direct
engagement should be targeted on the highest emission sectors: construction,
industrial, lawn and garden, and commercial off-road vehicles and equipment.
Develop a strategy for the City to transition its off-road equipment to electric
equipment.
Medium-term $
TL 1.6 Improve freight
efficiency
Improve the efficiency of freight movement within and throughout the region (e.g.
implement truck priority, smart pedestrian crossing technologies at traffic signals,
and/or roundabouts on key routes, develop freight consolidation centers, provide
real-time traffic data/information for logistics companies to plan around and alleviate
congestion).
Educate freight operators & drivers on fuel efficiency actions such as: turn off their
trucks/container delivery trucks/garbage trucks when parked and enforce a “non-
idling” policy.
Prioritize reducing diesel particulate matter on projects near disproportionally
impacted populations and that advance environmental justice.
Medium-term $$$
TL 2: Encourage a transition towards cleaner vehicles.
ID Action Description Benefits
Implementation
Timing Cost
TL 2.1 Create an EV plan Create an overall strategy to guide expansion of electric vehicle charging
infrastructure and support adoption of EVs in Renton. Include strategies to:
• Expand City-owned charging infrastructure in Renton, while considering chargers’
locations, costs, and types.
• Develop incentives and financing mechanism for commercial EV charging stations.
• Promote clean vehicle incentives and programs, especially to ensure equitable
distribution of EV benefits.
• Promote state and federal EV purchase incentives.
Short-term $$
BENEFITS KEY
Emissions reduction impact Resilience impact Equity Public health Natural environment Mobility
buIldInGs & eneRGY | 31
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
BUILDINGS & ENERGY
Goal: Ensure access to clean and reliable energy sources, expand renewable energy sources,
support efficient building standards, and create a more climate-resilient grid.
Emissions generated through the consumption of fuels, such as natural gas or electricity, to power Renton’s buildings is the city’s
largest source of greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 55% (814,443 MTCO2e) of total community wide emissions in
2019. Of the emissions from buildings and energy, 73% come from electricity, 25% from natural gas, and 2% from other fuels.
To meet our emissions reduction target, we have included actions that help transition to cleaner energy sources and support
energy efficiency in buildings.
Key Achievements / Progress to Date
• The City adopted solar energy systems development
regulations in 2020.
• IKEA installs Washington’s largest rooftop solar array in 2017.
• Willowcrest Townhomes is the first multifamily, net-zero energy
and permanently affordable homeownership project in King
County.
buIldInGs & eneRGY | 32
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
BE Strategies and Actions
BE 1: Transition to cleaner energy sources.
ID Action Description Benefits
Implementation
Timing Cost
BE 1.1 Support
community solar
projects
Evaluate community solar projects and partnership opportunities such as with Puget
Sound Energy (PSE).
Use incentives by federal, state, and other programs, and outreach to support the
development of residential and small business renewable energy systems and
community solar projects that benefit all residents, particularly communities of color,
low-income populations, and members of limited English-speaking communities.
Short-term $$$
BE 1.2 Promote renewable
energy financing
and incentives
Promote existing renewable energy financing mechanisms through federal, state,
and other programs for commercial and multi-family properties, such as the Property
Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program.
Promote residential renewable energy incentives and financing mechanisms through
federal, state, and other programs to fund residential renewable energy projects.
Short-term $
BE 1.3 Require new
buildings to be
solar and EV
charging ready
Require new residential and commercial buildings be solar ready and EV charging
ready. Explore incentives and financing mechanisms for EV infrastructure installation.
$$$
BE 1.4 Develop all-electric
code for new
buildings
By 2025:
• Offer incentives for all-electric new buildings (leverage permit fees, tax exemptions,
rebates, etc.), prioritizing low-income housing.
• Hold dialogues and conduct outreach in the community to design new rules and
incentives and communicate air quality benefits.
• Conduct a cost effectiveness study to ensure no cost increases for low/medium
income housing from banning fossil fuels in new buildings.
By 2030, adopt an electrification code banning fossil fuels in new construction. Pair
with relevant exemptions.
Short-term $$$
BENEFITS KEY
Emissions reduction impact Resilience impact Equity Public health Natural environment Mobility
buIldInGs & eneRGY | 33
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
ID Action Description Benefits
Implementation
Timing Cost
BE 1.5 Implement
regional heat pump
campaign for
existing buildings
Implement regional electric heat pump campaign to replace natural gas-powered
furnaces and increase energy efficiency in existing commercial and residential
buildings.
Short-term $$
BE 1.6 Electrify existing
buildings
By 2025:
• Offer incentives for electric retrofits for existing buildings. (leverage permit fees, tax
exemptions, rebates, etc.), prioritizing low-income housing.
• Hold dialogues and conduct outreach in the community to design new rules and
incentives and communicate air quality benefits.
• Per form an electrification feasibility study for existing buildings, analyzing the
feasibility and cost of electrification retrofits.
• Work with the County to coordinate incentives, tools, and messaging.
By 2030, adopt an electrification ordinance for existing buildings to transition from
fossil fuels to electric systems.
Short-term $$$
BE 1.7 Join PSE's Green
Power Program
and encourage
community
members to join
Join Puget Sound Energy’s (PSE) Green Power Program (City buildings) and encourage
businesses, large energy users, and residents to enroll in Puget Sound Energy’s (PSE)
Green Power Program.
Short-term $$$
BENEFITS KEY
Emissions reduction impact Resilience impact Equity Public health Natural environment Mobility
buIldInGs & eneRGY | 34
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
BE 2: Support energy efficiency in buildings.
ID Action Description Benefits
Implementation
Timing Cost
BE 2.1 Support financing
for building
energy upgrades
Support development of a C-PACER* program in King County.
*The Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy and Resiliency (C-PACER) program, or House Bill 2405, was
signed into law June 2020. PACER programs enable the financing of building improvements, such as energy
efficiency upgrades, renewable energy improvements, water conservation, and resiliency retrofits to address
vulnerabilities to earthquakes and other natural disasters.
Medium-term $
BE 2.2 Support equitable
access to energy
incentives and
financing through
state, federal, or
other programs
Establish long-term partnerships with contractors and utilities to coordinate equitable
access for residents and businesses to resources such as:
• Resources and incentives for retrofits to improve energy efficiency or to switch from
natural gas to electricity.
• Financial assistance and alternative financing through federal, state, and other
programs.
• Outreach and education about climate change and energy.
• Partner with utilities to promote existing energy incentive programs in the
residential sector. These programs help reduce upfront costs for investing in more
efficient equipment and home improvements.
Medium-term $
BE 2.3 Implement energy
efficiency and
weatherization
efforts
Team with PSE and other partners to implement weatherization and energy efficiency
efforts throughout the Renton community. This includes:
• Support voluntary energy conservation and efficiency programs (e.g., energy audits,
leak monitoring, and steps to mitigate inefficiencies)
• Advocate for projects that are energy efficient or enhance energy conservation
efforts by the City and its residents.
• Partner with utilities and contractors to help businesses and school districts improve
efficiency and upgrade equipment that improves affordability, comfort, indoor air
quality and energy efficiency in all commercial/multifamily buildings and schools.
• Encourage expansion of programs that result in home repair, weatherization, and
other energy-efficient improvements to owner-occupied and rental housing, and
promote additional funding for these programs at the state and federal level.
• Establish long-term partnerships with contractors and utilities to coordinate
equitable access for residents and businesses to existing resources such as
incentives, alternative financing and financial assistance, and education.
Short-term $
BENEFITS KEY
Emissions reduction impact Resilience impact Equity Public health Natural environment Mobility
ConsuMPTIon & MaTeRIals ManaGeMenT | 35
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
CONSUMPTION & MATERIALS MANAGEMENT
Goal: Extend the lifecycle of materials, reduce new consumption, and improve city-wide recycling
and composting.
While solid waste disposal accounts for just 1% or 16,881 MTCO2e of Renton’s emissions, the climate impacts of producing,
transporting, and disposing of those goods outside of Renton’s borders is significant. For many materials, most GHG emissions
are created during pre-purchase and production, not just at their disposal. Therefore, to promote a circular economy and create
more sustainable materials management, we have included actions that increase waste diversion from landfill and promote
sustainable consumption and reduce waste generation.
Key Achievements / Progress to Date
• The City offers curbside organics, including food waste, and
recycling collection alongside its garbage collection.
• The City introduced every-other-week garbage and recycling,
with weekly collection of organics in 2008 in its effort to
increase organics and recyclable materials recovery, as well as
reduce emissions of GHGs produced by collection vehicles.
• The Solid Waste Utility recognizes Waste Prevention Leaders,
Renton community members who support their community
through waste prevention, possibly by reusing materials
creatively or advocating for a zero waste lifestyle.
ConsuMPTIon & MaTeRIals ManaGeMenT | 36
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
CM Strategies and Actions
CM 1: Increase waste diversion from landfill.
ID Action Description Benefits
Implementation
Timing Cost
CM 1.1 Formalize the
Sustainable
Materials
Management
Plan and
implement
key
provisions
Formalize and implement the Sustainable Materials Management Plan and implement key
measures, including:
• Mandate residential recycling and organics collection participation and conduct
ongoing enforcement.
• Ban food waste from the garbage waste stream.
• Consider partnerships and collaborations with business organizations (including the
Chamber of Commerce), businesses with well-established sustainability programs, and
EnviroStars regional green business program to engage the business community in
sustainable materials management.
• Support and increase perishable food donations from large and small businesses to local
food rescue organizations.
• Promote repair and reuse opportunities to reduce waste generation.
• Adopt a City sustainable purchasing policy that will address packaging, energy
efficiency, transportation, etc. of goods purchased.
• Make supportive system changes and conduct data collection and monitoring.
Update plan on a regular cadence for it to remain relevant and the City be eligible for local,
state, and federal grant funding.
Short-term $$
CM 1.2 Education
and
awareness
Increase education and awareness of waste diversion and waste prevention best practices
for residents and businesses. Focus on opportunities for common residential waste
products that have significant climate benefits, such as food waste, but ensure messaging
also includes recycling and composting. Work with partners and existing campaigns as
applicable, especially for textile waste and food waste.
Short-term $$
CM 2: Promote sustainable consumption and reduce waste generation
ID Action Description Benefits
Implementation
Timing Cost
CM 2.1 Lobby for state
policy changes
Lobby at the state level for changes for packaging, disposal, and other waste policies. N/A Medium-term $$
naTuRal sYsTeMs & waTeR ResouRCes | 37
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
NATURAL SYSTEMS & WATER RESOURCES
Goal: Preserve and enhance the integrity, health and abundance of natural areas, ecosystems,
and water resources.
Renton’s waterways, forests, and habitats are the lungs of our City and provide important climate resiliency services for our
community (e.g., shade). In addition to reducing our community-wide GHG emissions, it is vital we support our water and natural
systems to sequester—or store and capture—carbon from the atmosphere. To enhance the health and well-being of our
water and natural systems, we have included actions that improve resilience of natural systems to climate change impacts,
including flooding, and preserve, restore, and protect natural systems to increase opportunities for carbon sequestration.
Key Achievements / Progress to Date
• In 2020, Renton updated its tree ordinance and regulations to preserve
existing trees and strengthen requirements around tree replacements.
• Renton completed the 10-year update of the City’s Urban Forest
Management Plan in 2022.
• Renton has been recognized as a Tree City USA for 14 years and has had 11
consecutive growth awards for the forestry program.
• Renton adopted and has updated its Parks, Recreation, and Natural Areas
Plan.
• In 2022, Renton adopted the 2021 King County Surface Water Design Manual
with amendments as the 2022 City of Renton Surface Water Design Manual.
• Renton maintains a Shoreline Master Program (SMP) to protect and restore
local shorelines and aquatic resources.
naTuRal sYsTeMs & waTeR ResouRCes | 38
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
NS Strategies and Actions
NS 1: Improve resilience of natural systems to climate change impacts, including flooding.
ID Action Description Benefits
Implementation
Timing Cost
NS 1.1 Enforce critical Enforce codes and regulations for critical areas, including conservation areas and areas
subject to flooding, seismic, geologic, and coal mine hazards to ensure compliance with
best available science, as determined by the Department of Ecology, when developing
critical-area policies and regulations. Continue to plan and support planning and zoning
efforts restrict land use in habitats, open spaces, and sensitive aquifer recharge areas.
Protect and enhance acquifer recharge and other water resources.
Short-term $$
NS 1.2 Implement
and enforce
the Hazard
Mitigation
Plan and
Stormwater
Management
Program Plan
Implement the Renton addendum to the Hazard Mitigation Plan and the 2022 Stormwater
Management Program Plan to assess and mitigate flooding risks, including key measures
to:
•Mitigate flooding in vulnerable and critical areas
•Assess risks to Renton’s water systems
•Study flood risk reduction in key areas
•Provide back-up power at utility pumping facilities
•Develop a Stormwater Management Action Plan (SMAP)
•Continue to develop, implement, and enforce best management practices related to
pollution prevention and response
•Conduct outreach and involve the community in stormwater management
Update plan on a regular cadence for it to remain relevant and the City be eligible for local,
state, and federal grant funding.
Short-term $$$
BENEFITS KEY
Emissions reduction impact Resilience impact Equity Public health Natural environment Mobility
areas code
and
regulations
naTuRal sYsTeMs & waTeR ResouRCes | 39
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
ID Action Description Benefits
Implementation
Timing Cost
NS 1.3 Protect and
enhance
natural
drainage
Continue to protect the integrity of natural drainage systems, such as wetlands, streams,
floodplains, green spaces, and other areas that support the flow of water by:
• Protecting buffers along wetlands and surface waters to facilitate infiltration and
maintain stable water temperatures, provide for biological diversity, reduce amount and
velocity of run-off, and provide for wildlife habitat.
• Exploring incentives for low-impact development projects (e.g., bioretention facilities,
permeable pavement, etc.) and LID requirements for new developments as part of land
use code.
• Promoting modeling of low impact development practices, particularly on high visibility
projects and public right-of-ways.
• Acquiring sensitive areas such as wetlands, flood plains, and wildlife habitat for
conversion to parks and greenbelts.
Medium-term $$
NS 2: Preserve, restore, and protect natural systems to increase opportunities for carbon sequestration.
ID Action Description Benefits
Implementation
Timing Cost
NS 2.1 Support
food access
and expand
gardens
Partner with nonprofits, low-income communities, and underrepresented communities to
expand urban agriculture opportunities in community gardens, schools, and parks and on
rooftops.
Short-term $$
BENEFITS KEY
Emissions reduction impact Resilience impact Equity Public health Natural environment Mobility
naTuRal sYsTeMs & waTeR ResouRCes | 40
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
ID Action Description Benefits
Implementation
Timing Cost
NS 2.2 Protect and
increase tree
canopy
Implement the 10-Year Urban Forest Management Plan. In particular:
• Maintain the public tree inventory
• Increase citywide tree canopy cover
• Apply a no-net-loss approach to tree canopy cover
• Grow a sustainable and resilient urban forest
• Use tree canopy assessment data for tree management policies
• Update and strengthen tree ordinances
• Maintain active communications with diverse audiences and provide education and
training workshops
• Enforce tree regulations
• Use existing data systems or new research to evaluate heat islands and canopy cover to
understand how to serve underserved communities.
Update plan on a regular cadence for it to remain relevant and the City be eligible for local,
state, and federal grant funding.
Explore creation of incentives, guidance, and education related to tree planting on
residential properties.
Short-term $$$
NS 2.3 Implement
the Parks,
Recreation,
and Natural
Areas Plan
Implement the Parks, Recreation, and Natural Areas Plan, particularly key measures to:
• Expand parks and recreational opportunities in new and existing locations with an
identified need.
• Increase resources for maintaining parks, recreation facilities and natural areas.
• Conduct natural area inventories. Inventories should specify site characteristics and
identify threats to sensitive areas.
• Manage natural areas using a continuum approach. Evaluate sites and apply a
management strategy along a continuum from minimal maintenance to maintaining a
restored natural area.
• Update plan on a regular cadence for it to remain relevant and the City be eligible for
local, state, and federal grant funding.
Short-term $$$
BENEFITS KEY
Emissions reduction impact Resilience impact Equity Public health Natural environment Mobility
CoMMunITY ResIlIenCe & well-beInG | 41
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
COMMUNITY RESILIENCE & WELL-BEING
Goal: Ensure all communities are prepared for climate related impacts and have equitable access
to resources and tools to adapt to climate change.
Climate change disproportionately affects communities, amplifying existing social and racial injustices. Community members
who are most vulnerable to climate impacts include people of color, those who lack English proficiency, low-income individuals,
and people with pre-existing health conditions. To ensure all community members are able to adapt to and be resilient in the
face of climate change, we have included actions that increase community capacity - particularly those most vulnerable - to
respond to future climate change and prepare Renton for future extreme events.
Key Achievements / Progress to Date
• Renton created a new City department: Equity, Housing, and Human Services.
• Formation of the City’s first Equity Commission in 2020 where community members
representing diverse perspectives provide review of city policies and programs.
• The Mayor’s Inclusion Task Force formed in 2015 to bring together community
leaders serving their unique communities to implement projects and facilitate
dialogue on community topics and City projects.
• In the last two years, the Housing Repair Assistance Program served 293
households, totaling 1,886 provided services.
• Renton Farmers’ Market began accepting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance
Program (SNAP) benefits in 2015, allowing visitors to use EBT cards at the market,
and initiated several other programs to make fresh food accessible to low-income
children and seniors.
CoMMunITY ResIlIenCe & well-beInG | 42
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
CR Strategies and Actions
CR 1: Increase community capacity, particularly those most vulnerable, to respond to future climate change.
ID Action Description Benefits
Implementation
Timing Cost
CR 1.1 Spur local,
climate-
related jobs
Promote climate-safe jobs by:
• Understanding how many industries and jobs in Renton already support climate
action or climate resilience.
• Partnering with Renton Technical College to identify and promote job training
programs for green industries
• Developing and implementing an Economic Development Plan to actively recruit
and retain green companies of all sizes.
• Working with businesses on guidelines for safe work in outdoor environments
during periods of heat and poor air quality to keep workers safe. Partner with State
and County health departments.
• Consider incentives to encourage businesses to adopt the Climate Pledge to reach
net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.
Short-term $
CR 1.2 Provide
climate
awareness
resources
and
education
Provide educational resources and opportunities to help residents become aware of
and engage in implementation of climate initiatives.
• Identify local organizations and institutions to work with to provide education and
hear from community members.
• Communicate community and municipal GHG emissions and consider building a
public-facing dashboard that includes information on Renton’s GHG emissions and
personal carbon footprints.
• Support local schools in developing and implementing curriculums and programs
for climate and sustainability education. Partner with organizations to help
implement.
• Deploy periodic community surveys to solicit feedback and understand concerns.
• Partner with new and existing organizations that support climate initiatives.
• Create an online repository of existing incentives and resources, to connect Renton’s
community to financial and educational support related to sustainability initiatives.
Short-term $$
CoMMunITY ResIlIenCe & well-beInG | 43
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
CR 2: Prepare Renton for future extreme events.
ID Action Description Benefits
Implementation
Timing Cost
CR 2.1 Provide
temporary
housing and
services during
extreme weather
events and
natural disasters
Provide resources to residents during extreme weather events and natural disasters
(heat waves, freezing conditions, smoke events, etc.):
• Plan and implement neighborhood cooling, clean air, and resource centers
that residents can go to. Prioritize these locations in neighborhoods with
disadvantaged communities.
• Identify and communicate areas for rapid or temporary housing in case of
emergency or natural disaster.
• Expand emergency services to unsheltered populations during extreme weather
events (e.g. heatwaves, freezing conditions, smoke events, etc.).
Short-term $
CR 2.2 Identify and
communicate
evacuation
routes
Identify and communicate evacuation routes in case of emergency or natural
disaster.
Short-term $
CR 2.3 Provide critical
standby
emergency
power
Provide back-up emergency power generation for critical City infrastructure (for
example, the City of Renton Maintenance Facility) to allow for full operation of
the facility, which is the City’s Emergency Command center for responding to any
significant hazard that results in an emergency. Facilitate needed partnerships to
ensure equitable access to power for all.
Medium-term $$
CR 2.4 Incentivize
adaptation
upgrades
• Offer rebates and incentives to encourage adaptation upgrades on residential
and commercial properties (e.g., reducing paved areas to address runoff and
heat, green roofs, permeable pavement, air filters, fans).
• Provide grant-funded housing retrofits, prioritizing senior facilities and/or other
climate vulnerable communities.
• Research similar programs to understand how peer cities incentivize adaptation.
• Consider expanding the Housing Repair Assistance Program to include
adaptation upgrades.
Medium-term $$$
BENEFITS KEY
Emissions reduction impact Resilience impact Equity Public health Natural environment Mobility
whaT ’s nexT? | 44
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
WHAT’S NEXT?
Implementing the CES 2.0
The City will sustain the momentum generated in preparing this CES 2.0 as
implementation begins. The Implementation Plan in Appendix A charts out the
City’s initial steps forward. For each action, this Appendix describes the lead
City department, key partners, timeframe, approximate cost, metrics, potential
funding sources, key next steps, and other considerations. This Implementation
Plan was developed in 2022 during the CES 2.0’s strategy and action
development process. Upon adoption of the CES 2.0, the City will update this
Implementation Plan to ensure that it reflects organizational changes within
the City, newly identified partners, relevant programs, and other current
events. To ensure we are on track to reduce emissions and build resilience, we
will need to measure our progress and adjust based on what we find.
What you can do!
• Use public transportation, walk, and bike to get around.
• When you need a new car, consider buying electric or look for efficiency.
• Turn off appliances and electronics when not in use, and switch to energy-
efficient and smart appliances.
• Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and consider reducing meat and
dairy consumption.
• Watch out for food waste by meal planning and using leftovers.
• Make the most of the products you buy, repair or repurpose items if you
can, and recycle the product at the end of its useful life.
• Talk to your elected officials to advocate for climate-friendly policies at the
regional and State level.
APPENDIX A. Implementation Plan
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Implementation Table
Appendix A. Implementation Plan
Note: This implementation plan was developed in coordination with the City Interdepartmental Team as a part of the CES 2.0’s strategy and
action development in 2022. Therefore, this appendix may no longer accurately represent the City’s current organizational structure, current
next key steps, or other implementation details.
Buildings & Energy
Strategy: Transition to cleaner energy sources.
Action Lead Entity Partners Timeframe Cost Funding Metrics Next Key Steps
BE 1.1:
Support
community
solar
projects
• Community
and Economic
Development
Department
• Public Works
• Puget Sound
Energy
• Seattle City Light
• K4C
• Master Builders
Association
• Washington
Multifamily
Housing
Association
• Local contractors
Short-term $$$ To be
determined
• Natural gas usage
• Electricity usage
• # of renewable
energy systems
installed
• # of community
solar projects
installed
• # of residents
served by new
projects
• # of households in
target communities
participating
• Collect models and best practices
for planning
• Meet with partners and learn
about existing programs
BE 1.10:
Join PSE's
Green
Power
Program
and
encourage
community
members
to join
• Community
and Economic
Development
Department
• Puget Sound
Energy
• Renton's
businesses, large
energy users,
residents
Short-term $$$ • Electricity usage in
City buildings
• # of businesses,
large energy users,
and residents
enrolled in the
Green Power
Program
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Implementation Table
Buildings & Energy
Strategy: Transition to cleaner energy sources.
Action Lead Entity Partners Timeframe Cost Funding Metrics Next Key Steps
BE 1.3:
Promote
renewable
energy
financing
and
incentives
• Community
and Economic
Development
Department
• King County
• K4C
• Master Builders
Association
• Washington
Multifamily
Housing
Association
• Local contractors
• Washington
Department of
Commerce
Short-term $ Requires only
staff time
• Natural gas usage
• Electricity usage
• # of Renton
residents who take
advantage of
existing financing
mechanisms
To be determined
BE 1.5:
Require
new
buildings to
be solar
and EV
charging
ready
• Community
and Economic
Development
Department
• Regional Code
Collaboration
• Local contractors
• Master Builders
Association
Medium-
term
$$$ To be
determined
• % of total buildings
in Renton that are
solar ready
• % of total buildings
in Renton that have
EV charging
• Natural gas usage
in commercial and
residential
buildings
• $ provided to
Renton community
for EV
infrastructure
installation
• Electricity usage in
commercial and
residential
buildings
To be determined
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Implementation Table
Buildings & Energy
Strategy: Transition to cleaner energy sources.
Action Lead Entity Partners Timeframe Cost Funding Metrics Next Key Steps
BE 1.6:
Develop all-
electric
code for
new
buildings
• Community
and Economic
Development
Department
• King County
• K4C
• Washington
Department of
Commerce
• Regional Code
Collaboration
Short-term $$$ To be
determined
• Commercial/indust
rial natural gas
consumption
• Electricity use
• # of incentives
provided by the
City
• Square footage or
commercial/multifa
mily space utilizing
natural gas heating
• # of incentives for
low income
housing
• Research possible incentives
BE 1.7:
Implement
regional
heat pump
campaign
for existing
buildings
• Community
and Economic
Development
Department
• K4C
• Executive Services
Dept.,
Communications
• EHHS
• Human Services
Manager
Short-term $$ To be
determined
• # of natural gas
powered furnaces
replaced
• Electricity usage in
commercial and
residential
buildings
• Connect with K4C and other cities
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Implementation Table
Buildings & Energy
Strategy: Transition to cleaner energy sources.
Action Lead Entity Partners Timeframe Cost Funding Metrics Next Key Steps
BE 1.8:
Electrify
existing
buildings
• Community
and Economic
Development
Department
• King County
• K4C
• Washington
Department of
Commerce
• Regional Code
Collaboration
Medium-
term
$$$ To be
determined
• Commercial/indust
rial natural gas
consumption
• Square footage or
commercial/multifa
mily space utilizing
natural gas heating
• # of incentives for
low income
housing"
• Electricity use
• # of incentives
provided by the
City
• Research incentives
• Initiate electrification feasibility
study for existing buildings
Buildings & Energy
Strategy: Transition to cleaner energy sources.
Action Lead Entity Partners Timeframe Cost Funding Metrics Next Key Steps
BE 2.1
Support
financing
for building
energy
upgrades
• Community
and Economic
Development
Department
• PW: Facilities
• King County
• Non-profit
organizations
Medium-
term
$ To be
determined
• # of C-PACER
grants funding
projects in Renton
• Identify organizations doing this
work and collaborate on policy
change
• Inventory existing programs
• Conduct education/ outreach
related to existing programs
• Identify role of Rental registration
program / Healthy Housing to
move this forward
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Implementation Table
Buildings & Energy
Strategy: Transition to cleaner energy sources.
Action Lead Entity Partners Timeframe Cost Funding Metrics Next Key Steps
BE 2.2
Support
equitable
access to
energy
incentives
and
financing
through
state,
federal, or
other
programs
• Community
and Economic
Development
Department
• Puget Sound
Energy
• Seattle City Light
• K4C
• Master Builders
Association
• Washington
Multifamily
Housing
Association
• Local contractors
Medium-
term
$ To be
determined
• Natural gas usage
• Electricity usage
• # of residents and
businesses reached
• # of incentives
used by the
community
To be determined
BE 2.3
Implement
energy
efficiency
and
weatherizat
ion efforts
• Community
and Economic
Development
Department
• EHHS (Housing
Repair Program)
• Puget Sound
Energy
• Seattle City Light
• K4C
• Master Builders
Association
• Washington
Multifamily
Housing
Association
• Local contractors
Short-term $ To be
determined
• Natural gas usage
• Electricity usage
• # of residents and
businesses reached
• # of incentives
used by the
community
To be determined
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Implementation Table
Transportation & Land Use
Strategy: Decrease usage and improve efficiency of fossil fuel-powered vehicles and equipment.
Action Lead Entity Partners Timeframe Cost Funding Metrics Next Key Steps
TL 1.1:
Implement
the Renton
Trails and
Bicycle
Master
Plan
• Parks and
Recreation
Department
• Public Works -
Transportation
• CED
• Cascade Bicycle
Club
• Washington Bikes
• Association for
Commuter
Transportation
(Cascade Chapter)
• Puget Sound
Regional Council
• WA Department of
Transportation
Short-term $$$ To be
determined
• % change in residential density
• # miles of bike/ped infrastructure
• % of Renton's residents engaging
with education and outreach
around the trail networks
• % decrease in vehicular accidents
involving pedestrians and bikers
• # of new parking/storage spaces for
non motorized users
• Vehicle miles traveled (VMT) per
capita
• # of new Complete Streets
To be determined
TL 1.2:
Advocate
and partner
regionally
to improve
transit
network
• Public Works
Department,
Transportation
Systems
Division
• CED
• King County Metro
• Sound Transit
• Association for
Commuter
Transportation
(Cascade Chapter)
• Puget Sound
Regional Council
• WA Department of
Transportation
• Parks and
Recreation
Department
Ongoing $$ To be
determined
• # miles bike/ped infrastructure
• # of new parking/storage spaces for
non motorized users
• % of neighborhoods within a 5-10
minute walk of transit access"
• Vehicle miles traveled (VMT) per
capita
• % vulnerable communities with
quality transit access
• Engage partners
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Implementation Table
Transportation & Land Use
Strategy: Decrease usage and improve efficiency of fossil fuel-powered vehicles and equipment.
Action Lead Entity Partners Timeframe Cost Funding Metrics Next Key Steps
TL 1.3:
Promote
transition
to electric
and green
fuels at
airports
and air
travel
• Community
and Economic
Development
Department
• Public Works
• Puget Sound
Regional Council
• SeaTac
• Port of Seattle
• K4C
• Puget Sound Clean
Air Agency
Long-term $ To be
determined
• % of ground support vehicles and
equipment transitioned to clean
fuels or electric
• gallons of sustainable aviation fuel
used as a % of all aviation fuel used
• Legislative
conversations
TL 1.6:
Increase
housing
density
along
existing
and
planned
transit
• Community
and Economic
Development
Department
• Renton Housing
Authority
• Puget Sound
Regional Council
Short-term
(but
ongoing)
$$ To be
determined
• # miles bike/ped infrastructure
• % of neighborhoods within a 5-10
minute walk of transit access
• % change in residential density
• % vulnerable communities with
quality transit access
• Vehicle miles traveled (VMT) per
capita
• Complete Housing
and Land Use
Study, (underway)
• Continue to
implement subarea
plans
• Evaluate Comp
Plan measures
TL 1.7:
Transition
to electric
off-road
equipment
such as
lawnmower
s and leaf
blowers.
• PW:
Maintenance
• Parks and
Recreation
• Puget Sound
Regional Council
• Puget Sound Clean
Air Agency
Medium-
term
$ To be
determined
• % change in gallons of fuel used for
off-road vehicles and equipment
• # of electric off-road vehicles or
equipment pieces purchased
To be determined
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Implementation Table
Transportation & Land Use
Strategy: Decrease usage and improve efficiency of fossil fuel-powered vehicles and equipment.
Action Lead Entity Partners Timeframe Cost Funding Metrics Next Key Steps
TL 1.11:
Improve
freight
efficiency
• Public Works
Department,
Transportation
Systems
Division
• Puget Sound
Regional Council
• WA Department of
Transportation
• Port of
Seattle/NWSA
Medium-
term
$$$ To be
determined
• # of new freight consolidation
centers
• % of freight operators/drivers
educated on fuel efficiency actions
• VMT for the purpose of freight
movement
To be determined
Transportation & Land Use
Strategy: Encourage a transition towards cleaner vehicles.
Action Lead Entity Partners Timeframe Cost Funding Metrics Next Key Steps
TL 2.1:
Create an
EV plan
• Community
and Economic
Development
Department
• Public Works -
Maintenance
• Puget Sound
Energy
• Seattle City Light
Short-term
(through
June 2023)
$80k • Departmen
t of
Commerce
grant
• Vehicle miles traveled (VMT) using
EV's vs. gasoline/diesel vehicles
• % of passenger vehicles that are EV
• # of City owned EV chargers
• $ provided for incentives/financing
for commercial EV charging stations
• Planning process
has begun
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Implementation Table
Consumption & Materials Management
Strategy: Increase waste diversion from landfill
Action Lead Entity Partners Timeframe Cost Funding Metrics Next Key Steps
CM1.1:
Formalize the
Sustainable
Materials
Management
Plan
• Public Works
Dept., Utility
Systems
Division
• Republic Services
• K4C
• Zero Waste
Washington
• Chamber of
Commerce
• Business
organizations and
businesses with
well-established
sustainability
programs
• EnviroStars
regional green
business program
• Margie Williams
Helping Hands
Food Center
• King County
Historic
Preservation
Program
Short-term $$ • Lbs of recycling and organics waste
collected from residential accounts
• Lbs of solid waste to be landfilled
collected from residential accounts
• Lbs of food waste disposed of
• # of partnerships initiated by the
City
• Lbs of perishable food donated
CM1.2:
Education
and
awareness
• Public Works
Dept., Utility
Systems
Division
• K4C Short-term $$ • •
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Implementation Table
Consumption & Materials Management
Strategy: Promote sustainable consumption and reduce waste generation
Action Lead Entity Partners Timeframe Cost Funding Metrics Next Key Steps
CM2.1: Lobby
for state
policy
changes
• Public Works
Department,
Utility
Systems
Division
• Medium-term $ • # of households and businesses
receiving resources & education
about waste diversion and
prevention
• Citywide reduction of waste sent
to landfills
•
Natural Systems and Water Resources
Strategy: Improve resilience of natural systems to climate change impacts, including flooding.
Action Lead Entity Partners Timeframe Cost Funding Metrics Next Key Steps
NS 1.1:
Strengthen
and revise
critical areas
code and
regulation
• CED • WA Department
of Natural
Resources
• King County
Water and Land
Resources Division
• Public Works:
Utilities
• Forterra
• Department of
Ecology
Short-term $$ To be determined • Sq. feet of land
preserved in
critical areas
with updated
codes
• Sq. feet of land
preserved by
zoning efforts
• Water quality
in natural
spaces
Evaluate channel migration zones and
review existing data
NS 1.2:
Implement
and enforce
the Hazard
Mitigation
Plan and
Stormwater
Management
Plan
• Utility
Systems
Division
• Public Works
Department
• Executive
Services
Dept.
• Emergency
Management
• Cascade Water
Alliance
• King County
Short-term $$$ To be determined • Metrics within
the
Stormwater
Management
Plan
• Understand implementation progress
and priority next steps
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Implementation Table
Natural Systems and Water Resources
Strategy: Improve resilience of natural systems to climate change impacts, including flooding.
Action Lead Entity Partners Timeframe Cost Funding Metrics Next Key Steps
NS 1.3:
Protect and
enhance
natural
drainage
• Public Works
Department
• Parks and
Recreation
Department
• CED
• Friends of the
Cedar River
Watershed
(FCRW)
• Cedar River
Council
• Surfrider
• Salmon Recovery
Board
Medium-
term
$$ To be determined • # of incentives
provided for
LID projects
• % deviation
from average
water surface
water
temperatures
• Sq. footage of
sensitive areas
acquired
To be determined
Natural Systems and Water Resources
Strategy: Improve resilience of natural systems to climate change impacts, including flooding.
Action Lead Entity Partners Timeframe Cost Funding Metrics Next Key Steps
NS 2.1:
Support food
access and
expand
gardens
• Parks and
Recreation
Department
• Equity, Housing,
and Human
Services
• Renton Farmer’s
Market
• Nonprofits
• Low-income and
underrepresented
communities
• Sustainable
Renton
• PW: Solid Waste
• CED
Short-term $$ To be determined • # of non-
profits reached
• % of low-
income
communities
and
underrepresen
ted
communities
reached
• # of new urban
agriculture
opportunities
To be determined
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Implementation Table
Natural Systems and Water Resources
Strategy: Improve resilience of natural systems to climate change impacts, including flooding.
Action Lead Entity Partners Timeframe Cost Funding Metrics Next Key Steps
NS 2.2:
Implement
the 10-Year
Urban Forest
Management
Plan.
• Parks and
Recreation
Department
• Forterra
• CED
Short-term $$$ To be determined • % increase in
canopy cover
• % of residents
that are
engaged in
education and
training
workshops
• Understand implementation progress
and priority next steps
NS 2.3:
Implement
the Parks,
Recreation,
and Natural
Areas Plan
• Parks and
Recreation
Department
Short-term $$$ To be determined • # of additional
parks and
recreation
opportunities
• % increase in
resources for
maintenance
• # of natural
area
inventories
completed
• Understand implementation progress
and priority next steps
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Implementation Table
Community Resilience & Well-being
Strategy: Increase community capacity – particularly those most vulnerable – to responds to future climate change.
Action Lead Entity Partners Timeframe Cost Funding Metrics Next Key Steps
CR 1.1:
Spur local,
climate-
related
jobs
• Community and
Economic
Development
Department
• Renton Technical
College
• K4C
• Partners related
to recruiting and
retaining green
businesses
• WA State
Department of
Health
• King County Public
Health
Short-term $ • KC Green New
Deal
• State and
federal
resources: jobs
creation,
economic
development
plans
• Green jobs, as
% of total jobs
• % employment
in green jobs
industries
• % of
businesses
updating
guidelines for
safe outdoor
work
• Meet with partners
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Implementation Table
Community Resilience & Well-being
Strategy: Increase community capacity – particularly those most vulnerable – to responds to future climate change.
Action Lead Entity Partners Timeframe Cost Funding Metrics Next Key Steps
CR 1.3:
Provide
climate
awareness
resources
and
education
• Public Works
• Sustainability
Office
• Executive
Services,
Communications
Division
• Emergency
Management
• Equity, Housing,
and Human
Services
• Communities In
Schools of
Renton-Tukwila
• Cedar River
Montessori School
• Community and
Economic
Development
Department
• Local
organizations/insti
tutions
• Renton School
District
• Environmental
Science Center
• Renton History
Museum
• K4C
Short-term $ • State
resources
• School districts
• Utilities
• # of
households
receiving
resources/edu
cation about
climate
impacts
• # of
partnerships
created with
local
organizations
and
institutions
• # of climate
and
sustainability
curriculum/pro
grams in
schools
• % of Renton’s
community
reached by
community
surveys
• Meet with partners
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Implementation Table
Community Resilience & Well-being
Strategy: Prepare Renton for future extreme events.
Action Lead Entity Partners Timeframe Cost Funding Metrics Next Key Steps
CR 2.1:
Provide
temporary
housing and
services
during
extreme
weather
events and
natural
disasters
• EHHS
• Emergency
Management
• CED
• Renton
Technical
College
• K4C
• Parks & Rec
• WA State
Department of
Health
• King County
Public Health
• Facilities
Short-term $ To be determined • % of population
that can be
accommodated
in community
safety hubs or
other disaster
relief centers
• Resource center
utilization (days
opened, #
opened)
• % of community
within walking
distance of a
resource center
• Identify possible shelter locations
CR 2.2:
Identify and
communicat
e evacuation
routes
• Public Works
Department
• Transportation
Systems Division
• Specify that
evacuation
routes will be
most relevant for
flooding/dam
failure
• Executive
Services Dept.,
Emergency
Management
• Emergency
Management
• Renton Fire
Authority
• King County
Emergency
Management
• Add State
(DOT/) and
neighbor
jurisdictions
• Police dept
Short-term $ To be determined • # of
households
receiving
preparedness
resources/edu
cation about
evacuation
routes
• Collect existing plans
• Develop communication strategy
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Implementation Table
Community Resilience & Well-being
Strategy: Prepare Renton for future extreme events.
Action Lead Entity Partners Timeframe Cost Funding Metrics Next Key Steps
CR 2.3:
Provide
critical
standby
emergency
power
• Utility Systems
Division
• Public Works:
Facilities Division
• Puget Sound
Energy
• Seattle City
Light
Medium-
term
$$ To be determined • % of City
infrastructure
that back-up
power can
support
• % of Renton's
residents that
have equitable
access to
power via new
partnerships
• Identify critical facilities
• Understand what funding facilities
are eligible for
CR 2.4:
Incentivize
adaptation
upgrades
• Community and
Economic
Development
Department
• Renton
Housing
Authority
• Local
contractors
• EHHS
• K4C
• King County
Master
Builders
Association
• Historic
Preservation
Program
Medium-
term
$$$ To be determined • # of rebates
utilized for
adaptation
upgrades
• # of grant
funded
retrofits
completed
• # of senior
facilities/other
climate
vulnerable
communities
supported by
grant-funded
retrofits
• Assess and recommend upgrades
APPENDIX B. Current State Memo
Tel (510) 838-7021 (Oakland)
Tel (206) 343-9759 (Seattle)
Fax (206) 343-9819
www.cascadiaconsulting.com
CITY OF RENTON CLEAN ECONOMY STRATEGY 2.0
CASCADIA CONSULTING GROUP, INC.
Current State Memo
| PAGE 1
Overview
This memo summarizes findings from a review of Renton’s climate-related policies and documents, including
the Clean Economy Strategy 1.0 (CES 1.0); regional climate policies and programs; and meetings with City
stakeholders. The goal of this document is to capture where the City currently stands in terms of climate- and
sustainability- related policies and practices, as well as the status of non-GHG sustainability metrics, and
regional standards that could affect Renton’s sustainability plans. We will use this information to shape
strategies and actions for the Clean Economy Strategy 2.0 (CES 2.0) so that they align with regional and state
standards and requirements and reflect progress that the City has made since the initial CES was adopted.
Document Roadmap
This memorandum begins with overviews of expected climate impacts in Renton and then presents a review of
findings by CES 1.0 focus area.
Sections of the memorandum are as follows:
• A description of our Methodology to create this memo
• An overview of the State and Regional Sustainability Context
• City Sustainability Inventory
o A Timeline of Sustainability Policies and Programs in Renton since the CES 1.0.
o A Key Accomplishments section that presents a high-level list of relevant City programs and
activities to make progress towards the CES 1.0 goals.
o A Findings by Focus Area section that details key policies, achievements, metrics, and challenges.
We have organized this document around CES 1.0 focus areas to visualize progress since the CES 1.0 was
completed. To develop strategies and actions for the CES 2.0, we will use new focus areas: Transportation &
Land Use, Buildings & Energy, Consumption & Materials Management, Water & Natural Systems, and
Community Resilience & Well-being. The CES 1.0 focus areas and corresponding CES 2.0 focus areas are
illustrated in the table below.
CES 1.0 Focus Areas Corresponding CES 2.0 Focus Areas
Leadership & Governance Goals from these CES 1.0 focus areas will be integrated
throughout CES 2.0 focus areas. Business & Community Engagement
Resource Efficiency & Renewable Energy Buildings & Energy; Consumption & Materials Management
Mobility, Land Use, & Development Transportation & Land Use
Water & Natural Systems (new)
Community Resilience & Well-being (new)
CES 1.0 Focus Area What’s Included
Leadership & Governance Citywide goals and policies, municipal climate actions, and participation in
climate- and sustainability partnerships.
Business & Community
Engagement
Actions to engage Renton businesses and residents to help Renton advance a
clean economy agenda.
Resource Efficiency &
Renewable Energy
Options for increasing renewable energy use and energy efficiency, as well as
efficiency in water use and materials management.
Mobility, Land Use, &
Development
Strategies for reducing transportation emissions and enhancing community
mobility.
| PAGE 2
Methodology
Information Request to City staff
We sent a data request template to City staff to complete with information about progress towards CES 1.0
goals and other climate and sustainability initiatives in Renton. The document asked staff to add metrics and
key performance indicators for each CES 1.0 goal, as well as key progress, partnerships, and challenges and
barriers. The completed information request is attached in Appendix A: Completed Information Request for
City Staff. Information resulting from these requests to staff are indicated throughout this document as “(Info
Request)”.
Literature Review
We conducted a literature review of City documents and of state and regional sustainability documents. To
develop this list of documents, we collaborated with the project team and asked for input at the first
Interdepartmental Team (IDT) meeting with City staff. To fill in the remaining information gaps, we completed a
comprehensive literature review of the following documents:
The review covered the following documents:
2022-2027 Business Plan (2021)
Rainier/Grady Junction Subarea Plan (2021)
Housing Action Plan (2021)
ADA Plan for Right of Way (2021)
Tree Inventory Update (2021)
Parks, Recreation, & Natural Areas Plan (2020)
Trails and Bicycle Master Plan (2019)
Civic Core Vision and Action Plan (2018)
Tree Canopy Cover Report (2018)
Comprehensive Plan (2015)
10-Year Urban Forest Management Plan (draft)
Water Systems Plan (ongoing)
The review of the regional sustainability context covered the following legislation, plans, and partnerships:
Washington King County
Climate Commitment Act (2021)
HEAL Act (2021)
State Energy Strategy (2021)
Clean Fuel Standard (2021)
Forward Washington Transportation Package (2021)
Plastic Pollution Reduction Bill (2021)
Food Waste Reduction Bill (2021)
EV Preparedness Bill (2021)
Adoption of CA Vehicle Emissions Standards (2020)
Clean Energy Transformation Act (2019)
Clean Buildings Act (2019)
HFC Superpollutants Act (2019)
WA State Enhanced Hazard Mitigation Plan (2018)
King County-Cities Climate
Collaboration (K4C) (began 2012)
King County Strategic Climate Action
Plan (2020)
Puget Sound Regional Council Vision
2050 (2020)
Comprehensive Solid Waste
Management Plan (2019)
Metro Connects Plan (2017)
| PAGE 3
IDT Workshops
Workshops with City staff across departments and with the Renton Regional Fire Authority have provided input
that informed sections of this document. Two workshops, one held in December 2021 and the other in
February 2022, included the following activities:
• Brainstorm of current and upcoming City plans, policies, and activities related to climate. This list
informed the literature review of City documents that our team completed for this memo.
• Review of the CES 1.0 goals and framework to understand progress toward goals and collect input
about sustainability- and climate- related accomplishments in Renton. Input is reflected in the Findings
by Focus Area section of this memo.
• Review climate impacts and vulnerabilities described in the CES 1.0 and other regional assessments.
Detailed summaries of each IDT meeting have been sent to City staff.
State and Regional Sustainability Context
This section details relevant State and regional climate- and sustainability-related policies, plans, and programs.
Washington State
The State of Washington has been a leader in developing and implementing policies and regulations to address
climate change. Below is a snapshot of the key recent statewide legislation aimed at reducing GHG emissions,
which recommend that the City of Renton align with as we proactively plan for climate action.
Sector Major Policies Year Adopted Brief Description
Climate Change /
Governance
Climate Commitment
Act
2021 Places economy-wide cap on carbon to meet state GHG
reduction targets and be consistent with best available
science.
HEAL Act
(Healthy Environment
for All)
2021 Defines and embeds environmental justice in state law.
Includes state agency requirements for environmental
justice in engagement, budgeting, funding, and
strategic planning.
State Enhanced Hazard
Mitigation Plan
2018 Analyzes the impacts of 17 natural and human-caused
hazards. Climate change is considered as a separate
plan element.
Buildings &
Energy
State Energy Strategy 2021 Promotes electrification as a key strategy to address
rising building emissions.
Clean Energy
Transformation Act
(CETA)
2019 Requires a phase-out of coal by 2025, carbon-neutral
electricity sales by 2030, and 100% clean energy by
2045.
Clean Buildings Act 2019 Establishes a state energy performance standard and
other measures for new and existing large buildings
over 50,000 square feet with an early adopter incentive
program.
HFC Superpollutants
Act
2019 Requires phasing out of HFC Superpollutants in new
equipment, using climate friendly alternatives in
compliant with the Act’s 2020-2024 phasing timeline.
WA Building/Energy
Code
(RCW 19.27A.160)
2009 Requires adoption of state energy code that results in a
70% reduction in annual net energy consumption
compared to the 2006 state energy code.
| PAGE 4
Sector Major Policies Year Adopted Brief Description
Transportation &
Land Use
Clean Fuel Standard 2021 Reduces overall carbon intensity of fuels through
use of cleaner fuels or purchasing clean fuel
credits.
Electric Vehicle (EV)
Preparedness
2021 Requires the Washington Department of
Transportation to develop a publicly available tool
to find EV charging locations; extends the Clean
Building Act requirement for EV readiness to new
single-family construction.
Adoption of California’s
motor vehicle
emissions standard
2020 Allows the Washington Department of Ecology to adopt
California’s zero emissions vehicle program.
Shoreline Management
Act
1972 Supports local land use decision-making and shoreline
planning, including access, hazard mitigation, economic
uses, and salmon recovery.
Growth Management
Act
1990 The Washington Legislature enacted the Growth
Management Act (GMA) in 1990 to guide planning for
growth and development in Washington State.
Waste Management
Plastic Pollution
Reduction 2021 Expands Styrofoam prohibitions; requires customer opt-
in of single-use food ware and new minimum levels of
post-consumer recycled plastic content.
Food Waste Reduction 2019 Requires the state to reduce the amount of food waste
going to landfills 50% by 2030, compared to 2015 levels.
Water and
Natural Systems Forest Health &
Wildfire Prevention
2021
Provides funding for forest inventory updates, forest
health assessments, and identification and treatment of
200,000 acres of fire-prone land per biennium.
King County
Key climate players in King County include the following organizations and partnerships:
• King County Cities Climate Collaboration (K4C) is a partnership of 20 local governments of all sizes
working together to accelerate climate action. Any city in King County is welcome to join to share
knowledge, resources, and advocacy power to help shape policy and programs that cut greenhouse gas
emissions. Renton was a founding member of K4C in 2012.
• Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) develops policies and coordinates decisions about regional growth,
transportation and economic development planning within King, Pierce, Snohomish, and Kitsap
counties. PSRC is composed of nearly 100 members, including four counties, cities and towns, ports,
state and local transportation agencies and Tribal governments within the region.
• Puget Sound Climate Preparedness Collaborative is partnership that seeks to enhance coordination and
improve climate change preparedness in the Puget Sound region. Established in 2017, it includes 21
member organizations and partners representing five counties of the Puget Sound region, three
municipalities, tribal governments, and regional organizations.
| PAGE 5
Key plan documents that guide climate planning in the County and region are listed below:
King County Countywide Planning Policies (2022)
The Countywide Planning Policies create a shared and consistent framework for growth management
planning for all jurisdictions in King County. This work supports the adoption of the growth targets that
serve as the land use assumption in local comprehensive plans.
King County Climate Action Toolkit (2021)
This Toolkit aligns with the King County 2020 Strategic Climate Action Plan and the K4C Joint
Commitments. It outlines a process for creating a climate action plan, example goals and priority actions,
and strategies for creating a greenhouse gas inventory, conducting community engagement, and
implementing actions.
King County Strategic Climate Action Plan (2020)
This climate action plan was developed by King County staff and encompasses both community and
County government emissions. The goals and measures outline align with K4C and the King County
Climate Action Toolkit.
Puget Sound Regional Council VISION 2050 (2020)
VISION 2050 is a regional framework for updating planning policies, including countywide planning
policies and local comprehensive plans. It includes guidance for reducing emissions, preparing for
climate impacts, restoring the Puget Sound, protecting open space, and targeting growth in centers
and near transit.
Comprehensive Solid Waste Management Plan (2019)
This Plan resents strategies for managing King County's solid waste through 2025. It also sets policies,
recommendations, and goals around: solid waste system planning; waste prevention, recycling, and solid
waste collection; solid waste transfer and processing system; landfill management and solid waste
disposal; and solid waste system finance.
Metro Connects Plan (2017)
This Plan is King County Metro's vision for bringing residents improved transit service across one easy-to-
use system over the next 25 years. Components of the Plan aim to improve bus frequency, range, and
speed; provide more choices on demand; improve networks for biking, walking, and carpooling; and
bring better coordination among transit agencies, as well as accessibility for people with disabilities and
those unfamiliar with navigating the region.
City Sustainability Inventory
Timeline of Sustainability Policies and Programs
This plan builds on a rich history of sustainability action in Renton, especially in the past few years. These
activities signal an increasing commitment to climate action and sustainability.
| PAGE 6
Key Achievements
• Renton has been a Tree City USA for 14 years and has had 11 consecutive Growth Awards.
• Climate and sustainability goals are formalized in City planning documents, including the Business
Plan (2022-2027) and Comprehensive Plan (2015).
• The City adopted solar energy systems development regulations in 2020.
• The City offers curbside organics, including food waste, and recycling collection alongside its garbage
collection.
• The City introduced every-other-week garbage and recycling, with weekly collection of organics in
2008 in its effort to increase organics and recyclable materials recovery as well as reduce emissions
of GHGs produced by collection vehicles.
• Sunset Park LID improvements with a regional stormwater facility
• Meadowcrest Early Learning Center
• IKEA project with solar panels
• Willowcrest Townhomes
Findings by Focus Area
The following sections present a detailed compilation of inventory findings for each of the focus areas from the
CES 1.0. Findings are organized as follows:
• Relevant Plans, Programs, and Policies that inform current or future direction of sustainability-related
activities.
• City Progress to Date, including sustainability achievements that City has already made and notable
sustainability activities within the City.
• Identified Challenges and Gaps that could hinder progress towards sustainability goals.
Leadership & Governance
Goals listed in the CES 1.0:
• 1-1: Formalize Renton’s clean economy goals, commitments, and desired outcomes.
• 1-2: Establish a Renton Green Team to shepherd the City’s clean energy goals and spur staff
innovations.
• 1-3: Showcase Renton’s leadership and success.
• 1-4: Continue to collaborate on regional clean economy initiatives; develop key partnerships for
Renton-specific actions.
| PAGE 7
Relevant Plans, Programs, and Policies
The City has formalized goals in many planning documents since the CES 1.0; these are key documents where
sustainability goals have been linked to Renton’s overall vision:
• 1-1: The City formalized goals in several Comprehensive Plan (2015) elements, including: Land Use;
Transportation; Housing & Human Services; Parks, Recreation, Natural Areas, & Trails; Utilities; Capital
Facilities; and Shoreline Management.
• 1-1: The City of Renton Business Plan (2022-2027) lists several climate-related measures within its goals
to provide a safe, healthy and vibrant community; support planned growth and influence decisions to
foster environmental sustainability; and build an inclusive and hate-free city with equitable outcomes for
all in support of social, economic, and racial justice.
City Progress to Date / Key Achievements
• 1-1: The City joined K4C in 2012.
• 1-1: A new Sustainability Division was formed within Public Works (Info Request).
• 1-2: After the 2011 CES was adopted, staff organized a Green Team, but over time it dissolved (Info
Request).
• 1-4: The City collaborates with Sustainable Renton for events like the annual Plant and Seed Swap (Info
Request).
Metrics and KPIs
• Completed planning actions listed in the Comprehensive Plan and Business Plan.
• Renton Results lists some budget metrics as well (Info Request).
Identified Challenges and Gaps
• Staff identified lack of staff capacity and citywide support as consistent challenges for goals 1.2, 1.3, and
1.4.
| PAGE 8
Business & Community Engagement
Goals listed in the CES 1.0:
• 2-1. Engage Renton’s leading employers in a dialogue on the clean economy and sustainability.
• 2-2. Organize and facilitate roundtables with Renton’s business leaders focused on clean economy
strategies.
• 2-3. Develop a green guide for Renton’s business leaders.
• 2-4. Support the business community in facilitating local and regional transportation solutions.
• 2-5. Consider developing a green recognition program for Renton’s community leaders.
• 2-6. Continue to develop and market tools and incentives to attract new businesses—particularly
clean technology companies.
• 2-7. Spur local green jobs.
• 2-8. Provide green resources for residents on Renton’s website.
• 2-9. Facilitate a community dialogue around a broader “Clean Economy Agenda” for Renton.
Relevant Plans, Programs, and Policies
• 2-4: Rainier/Grady Junction TOD Subarea Plan (2021): This document develops conceptual strategies
to transform the area into a pedestrian-oriented district with a multimodal center and strong
pedestrian connections that gracefully integrates with neighboring areas.
City Progress to Date / Key Achievements
• 2-4: The City implemented a Bus Rapid Transit system, with investments in local infrastructure and new
bus lines (Info Request).
• 2-4: The City facilitated the Rainier/Grady Junction TOD Subarea Plan planning process, working with a
stakeholder workgroup comprised of business owners, property owners, and local transit agencies.
• 2-4: City staff participate in a Commute Trip Reduction program, supporting and encouraging non-
single-occupant-vehicle commute options. The Commute Trip Reduction Law (passed in the early
1990s) requires employers with 100 or more full-time, permanent, year-round employees who arrive at
work on weekdays between the hours of six and nine in the morning to have programs for their
employees supporting and encouraging non-single-occupant-vehicle (non-SOV) commute options (Info
Request).
• 2-5: Waste Prevention Leaders are Renton community members who excel at preventing waste. Every
few months, the Solid Waste Utility recognizes people who support their community through waste
prevention, possibly by reusing materials creatively, advocating for a zero waste lifestyle, or composting
with gusto (Info Request).
• 2-8: The City has added information to its website (Info Request)
o Annual Stop and Swap event details
o Gardening program information, including an online gardening resource guide, webinars, and
gardening scholarships
o Urban Forestry Brochure
• 2-9: The City is holding meetings with the CES Advisory Committee to develop the CES 2.0 (Info Request).
Metrics and KPIs
• Completed planning actions listed in the Rainier/Grady TOD Subarea Plan.
Identified Challenges and Gaps
Challenges identified by staff (Info Request) to implement actions in this focus area:
• 2-1, 2-2, & 2-3: Lack of staff capacity and community support.
• 2-4: Lack of staff capacity and funding.
• 2-5: Lack of staff capacity and public participation.
| PAGE 9
Resource Efficiency & Renewable Energy
Goals listed in the CES 1.0:
• 3-1. Streamline procurement and incorporate environmental guidelines into purchasing policies
and contracts.
• 3-2. Establish energy performance standards and reporting for city buildings and pursue additional
energy efficiency opportunities.
• 3-3. Team with PSE and other partners to implement weatherization and energy efficiency efforts
throughout the Renton community.
• 3-4. Incorporate renewable energy generation into city projects and foster private-sector
investments.
• 3-5. Advance waste prevention and diversion of materials in the City’s own operations, with
haulers, and through targeted efforts in specific sectors.
Relevant Plans, Programs, and Policies
• 3-2: City of Renton Business Plan (2022-2027): This Plan sets forth goals to uphold the City’s overall
vision. Two measures are to “Pursue initiatives to increase mobility, promote clean energy in our
existing buildings and in new development, preserve and expand open spaces and tree coverage, and
other efforts to reduce CO2 and greenhouse gas emissions.”
• 3-2: A Comprehensive Plan Land Use Element measure is to: “Encourage environmentally friendly
construction practices, such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, Built Green, Salmon
Safe, and Living Building Challenge.” Building energy efficiency is also referenced in the Housing and
Human Services Element.
• 3-5: Sustainable Materials Management Plan (ongoing) (did not review): This Plan - set goals and
guidelines and recommended strategies and programs to reduce waste generation and improve waste
diversion from landfill.
City Progress to Date / Key Achievements
• 3-1: There are not currently any environmental guidelines in the City’s purchasing policy, but updates
are underway (Info Request).
• 3-3: City staff have identified this measure as ongoing (Info Request).
• 3-4: Renton adopted solar energy systems development regulations in 2020 (IDT Meeting #2).
• 3-5: The City is currently completing a Sustainable Materials Management Plan and has adopted a City
ordinance (Info Request).
• 3-5: Renton offers weekly food waste collection alongside garbage and recycling collection (IDT Meeting
#2).
Metrics and KPIs
• Presence of new environmental guidelines in purchasing policies and contracts.
• Presence of energy performance standards.
• Completion of Sustainable Materials Management Plan.
Identified Challenges and Gaps
• Staff did not identify any challenges to complete these goals (Info Request).
| PAGE 10
Mobility, Land Use, and Development
Goals listed in the CES 1.0:
• 4-1. Renton should continue to promote clean vehicle incentives and programs.
• 4-2. Work with King County METRO and local businesses to reduce single-occupancy vehicle
commute trips.
• 4-3. Foster smart growth and compact, walkable communities through policies, plans, and
incentives.
• 4-4. Model low impact development (LID) practices on high-profile parcels and public right-of-
ways and incorporate green elements into public and private developments through investments,
policies, and incentives
Relevant Plans, Programs, and Policies
• 4-2: The Rainier/Grady Junction TOD Subarea Plan (2021) lists a goal to: “to transform the area into a
pedestrian-oriented district with a multimodal center and strong pedestrian connections that gracefully
integrates with neighboring areas.” It contains several detailed planning measures to improve multimodal
transit connections, promote mixed use development, and add green open spaces and trees.
• 4-3: The Civic Core Vision and Action Plan (2018) contains measures to: restructure transit operations to
activate the Civic Core and Downtown and address current gaps in transit stop amenities such as shelters,
lighting, and signage; improve pedestrian pathways and add lighting; maintain and expand the Renton
Connector and other trails, preserve and develop parks and open spaces; activate pop-up retail and art
spaces to create engaging and walkable areas in Renton; and improve wayfinding downtown.
• 4-3: The Trails & Bicycle Master Plan (2019) lists goals and measures to upgrade existing walking and
biking trails, add 97 miles of trails in Renton’s borders and 8 more outside Renton’s borders, focus on trail
connectivity with the downtown area, and ensure regional trail connections come together and connect to
the Cedar River Trail.
• 4-3: Two Business Plan (2022-2027) measures are to: “Promote a walkable, pedestrian and bicycle-friendly
city with complete streets, trails, and connections between neighborhoods and community focal points,”
and “Foster development of vibrant, sustainable, attractive, mixed-use neighborhoods in urban centers.”
• 4-3: Renton’s Comprehensive Plan has a long Transportation Element with measures to improve safety,
promote pedestrian and bicycle transportation, improve access to transit and options available, support a
growth strategy for land use and transportation, and maintain level of service standards for transit.
• 4-3: The Barrier-Free Mobility Renton ROW ADA Transition Plan (2015) studied ADA compliance for
sidewalk curb ramps, sidewalks, and pedestrian street crossing buttons and created recommendations to
improve accessibility.
• 4-4: The Parks, Recreation, and Natural Areas Plan (2020) identifies system-based policies,
implementation strategies and an investment program to enhance and sustain parks, recreation and
natural areas as critical elements of a vibrant community. Key goals include providing a minimum level of
service for community members to access parks, developing new parks, conducting natural area
inventories and managing natural areas, connecting the Park and Natural Area system using trails, adding
wayfinding and navigation information for pedestrians, and mitigating barriers to access like disconnected
streets and limited crossing points.
• 4-4: The Urban Forest Management Plan 2022-2032 (draft) sets recommendations to realize maximum benefits
afforded by the urban forest and make the community a great place to live, work and play.
• 4-4: The Urban Forest Inventory & Resource Analysis Summary Report (2021) and the Urban Tree Canopy
Assessment (2018) list open planting sites for trees and recommend management strategies to maintain
the health of Renton’s tree canopy. They note that Renton has 116,994 trees total. Trees in Renton provide
$219,000+ in benefits to residents.
City Progress to Date / Key Achievements
• 4-1: The City currently plans to update its fleet with more energy efficient vehicles (Info Request).
| PAGE 11
• 4-1: The Commute Trip Reduction Program encourages City staff and staff at other large employers to use
vanpools, etc. to reduce single-occupancy vehicle commute trips (see Goal 2-4) (Info Request).
• 4-3: Renton is currently updating its tree ordinance and regulations to preserve existing trees and
strengthen requirements around tree replacements (IDT Meeting #2).
• 4-3: Several City docket items have supported dense, walkable neighborhoods (i.e., density bonus, 2.5x
the density for cottage housing) (Info Request).
• 4-4: Renton has been a Tree City USA for 14 years and has had 11 consecutive growth awards for the
forestry program (IDT Meeting #2).
• 4-4: Renton has adopted Complete Streets regulations (IDT Meeting #2).
• 4-4: Projects include: Green Streets in Sunset, Sunset Park LID improvements with a regional stormwater
facility, Meadowcrest Early Learning Center, IKEA project with solar panels, and Willowcrest Townhomes
(Info Request).
Metrics and KPIs
• Trails & Bicycle Master Plan metrics:
o Miles of Trails per 1,000 Population (current: 0.29)
o LTS 1 & 2 trail miles (23.3 in 2018; goal of 113 in 2035). LTS denotes routes by Levels of Traffic Stress.
o Trail miles by community planning area
o % of residents within ¼ mile service area of LTS 1&2 facilities
• Urban Forest Inventory & Resource Analysis Summary Report metrics:
o Number of trees, including street trees, park trees, and total public trees
o Unique tree species
o Trees with 8+-inch and 24+-inch diameter
o % Trees in good condition and % Trees susceptible to emerging pests
o Total acres of canopy cover
• Parks, Recreation, and Natural Areas Plan metrics:
o Number of sites (parks, natural areas, corridors)
o Total acreage (parks, natural areas, corridors)
o Service area (miles to parks)
• Urban Forest Management Plan metrics:
o Tree equity scores: based on how much tree canopy and surface temperature align with income,
employment, race, age, and health factors, using a 0- to-100-point system.
Identified Challenges and Gaps
4-3: Rainier/Grady Junction TOD Subarea Plan lists several challenges:
• The built environment requires significant improvements to be safe for non-motorized transportation.
• Pedestrian and bicycle connections are missing or feel unsafe and uncomfortable.
• Several overhead power line corridors cross the area, limiting development and uses on several parcels.
• The subarea has few parks or formal community gathering places; connections to natural systems are weak.
• Heavy traffic volumes may impact future residents of the area.
• The Auto Mall Overlay promotes vehicles sales.
• The dominance of infrastructure (highway, arterials, power line corridors) results in a current environment
that lacks human scale elements and a sense of place.
4-3: Challenges listed in the Comprehensive Plan Transportation Element include:
• Revenue available from several existing sources is declining, such as the half-cent gas tax and grants;
• Transportation needs and costs are growing faster than available revenues;
• Local, state, & federal requirements lengthen the design process and increase cost of improvements;
• Increased needs for preservation of the existing infrastructure;
• Additional focus on incorporating complete streets concepts into transportation projects which adds costs
due to right-of way and street standards;
• The continued inability of regional agencies to address regional transportation needs.
4-3: City staff listed a lack of funding and barriers in private investment/market as challenges (Info Request).
APPENDIX C. Community Engagement Summaries
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
Community-wide Engagement Summaries
Online Open House: Meeting Summary
May 25, 2022 | 6:00 – 7:30 pm | Zoom
Open House Overview
This document summarizes participation, discussion, questions, and feedback from the City of Renton’s community
online open house, held on Zoom on May 25, 2022 at 6:00 pm. The input gathered at this open house will be used
to inform the Clean Economy Strategy (CES) 2.0 strategies and actions.
• 36 people registered for the open house and 17 attended (in addition to City and consultant staff)
• Workshop agenda is below:
Time Topic
6:00 pm (10 min) Welcome and introductions
6:10 pm (10 min) Presentation: CES 2.0 goals, timeline, and progress
6:20 pm (10 min) Presentation: draft strategy development
6:30 am (50 min) Breakout room discussions: draft strategies
7:20 pm (10 min) Wrap up and adjourn
7:30 pm (30 min — OPTIONAL) Optional Q&A
Open House Objectives
The online open house provided an opportunity for community members to learn about the CES 2.0 project and
planning process, give feedback on draft strategies and actions, and ask questions about the project to City staff.
The open house goals were:
• Introduce the CES 2.0 project goals, timeline, and progress
• Introduce the CES 2.0 draft strategies
• Discuss draft strategies and gain insight and feedback from the community
• Review key themes discussed and next steps
Overarching Feedback & Key Takeaways
• Overall, participants supported the majority of draft strategies and actions . Participants especially
supported the creation of neighborhood resilience centers, requiring solar on new buildings, and
improving biking and walking infrastructure.
• Workshop participants expressed concern over the costs to residents and equity considerations related
to heat pumps, electric vehicles (EVs), and solar installation.
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
• Participants noted that in general, there needs to be appropriate outreach to bring in vulnerable and
frontline communities directly when developing and implementing these actions , especially relating to
actions aimed to support these communities. Participants also identified a need for better transit access
and connectivity in Renton.
• Workshop participants discussed the benefits and importance of incentives for a variety of different
strategies and actions related to building retrofits, heat pump purchasing, bicycling, renewable energy,
and businesses.
Icebreaker
At the beginning of the open house, participants were invited to answer the question, “What do you love most
about Renton?” in the Zoom chat. Responses included:
• Renton is ahead of the curve on so many fronts
• It's where I grew up
• Cedar River dog park!
• Downtown and Lake Washington
• The community!
• Diversity
• Renton history that feeds into community spirit and volunteerism
• Improvements to the downtown, starting with the Piazza 20 years ago, small town feel
• Beautiful trails and parks
• The joint cooperation between nonprofits, business, and city
• Renton's diversity, history, and distinctive energy
• It always feels like we are in this together to grow the city, address issues, and support our youth
Breakout Room Discussions
Following presentations on the CES 2.0 planning process and the CES 2.0 draft strategies, participants were divided
into three breakout rooms to discuss draft strategies and actions. Participants were asked to keep in mind the
following questions during the discussion:
• How supportive are you of these actions?
• Do you have any concerns about these actions or feel that edits need to be made to them?
• From an equity perspective, are there groups of people that would be most burdened or benefitted by
these actions?
• Are there crucial strategies and actions missing and/or do you have new ideas not currently reflected in
this list?
Not all draft actions were included during this workshop, and not all actions included were discussed among all
breakout groups. Support, concerns, comments, and questions are summarized below by the five focus areas.
Buildings and Energy
Action Notes
Implement regional heat
pump campaign for existing
buildings
• Support for heat pump campaign, part of a larger decarbonization
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
Action Notes
• Concern for equity for heat pump, EV, solar panels. It's very expensive
($20,000 for a heat pump) This cost a challenge for homeowners and
small business owners
No new natural gas
Require new buildings to be
solar and EV charging ready
• Very in favor of this. So much less expensive to include in an original
design rather than do it later. Doesn't add much to the cost early on
(especially for commercial buildings)
• Good idea to also apply for deep retrofits
• Possible equity concerns with cost?
• Maybe an issue in affordable housing? Maybe tax credits to offset?
• Support for requiring solar but not for requiring EV charging stations—
this would require car space and negatively impact density goals
• Concern with "requiring" EV stations
Establish energy
benchmarking program
• Question for GHG Team: How many buildings are subject to HB 1257?
How will that be incorporated into plan/emissions modeling?
• Would these be specific to Renton?
Green Building Standards • Downtown has a lot of buildings, but there is resistance from downtown
property owners (not just for green building standards but other asks of
businesses)
• Need incentives to encourage privately owned building owners to adopt
changes
Improve energy efficiency
in City buildings
• Support for City buildings, the City should model what they want
Maintenance facility
standby emergency power
• Support for this action
Support community solar
projects
• Support for this action
Siting essential public
facilities
• Support for this action
• Edit the action so that equity is included in decision making
• Often it comes down to the most affordable place and where there's
not a lot of public resistance. Not the best approach/decision in terms of
how we site. This isn't equitable and may not be 'long term' climate
ready/resilient
Additional comments:
• General support for all actions
• What is the scalability of these ideas? This needs to be considered
• The greenest building is the one that is already built
• Potential missing actions:
o Address urban heat island effect (tree canopy)
o Building codes for landscaping/requiring trees, new development
o Low impact development
o Greenfield development
o Incentivize heat pumps
o Incentivize retrofits versus new buildings
o Retrofitting city buildings—huge potential
o Methane production through sewage waste on community level—has this been considered?
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
Transportation and Land Use
Action Notes
Implement the Renton
Trails and Bicycle Master
Plan
• Very supportive of this action—new bike lanes are great
• Supportive of good trails and better sidewalks
• It would be great to add incentives with a bicycle plan so folks who normally
wouldn't buy a bike could afford to do so
Advocate and partner
regionally to improve
transit network
• Support for this action
• Need to integrate with regional transportation planning
• Need to work with Metro/King County to increase access and frequency of
public transit
• Better/faster transit would be great
• Currently, it takes a very long time to get to North Seattle by public transit
• Renton currently left out of light rail
EV Charging Incentives • How to encourage more people to convert to EVs?
• EVs pose equity issues—they are expensive and cost prohibitive
• What other incentives are possible related to EV infrastructure and charging
stations?
EV infrastructure • EVs pose equity issues—they are expensive and cost prohibitive
• What other incentives are possible related to EV infrastructure and charging
stations?
• Concerned about this topic—the whole system needs to have more robust
EV infrastructure (traffic lights, etc.)
Upgrade City fleet, school
buses and shuttles
Evaluate areas to require
higher density
• Support for this action
• We are facing a national housing crisis
Incentivize sustainable
design guidelines
Work with employers to
reduce single-occupancy
vehicle commutes
Improve freight efficiency • Questions about 405—thoroughfare, efficiency of improvements of
routes/corridors (how to designate where trucks can travel on roads), and
frequency of trips
Dedicate lanes for transit
and bikes
• Support for this action
Additional comments:
• Potential missing action around delivery of energy and transmission capacity
Materials and Consumption
Action Notes
Formalize the Sustainable
Materials Management Plan and
implement key provisions to
promote sustainable consumption
and reduce waste generation
• Support for this action, supportive of city purchasing policy
• How high are you setting the bar for "sustainable"—what does it
mean?
• Sustainable materials can be more expensive—might be an
equity consideration
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
Action Notes
City operations: Remove
barriers/revisit policy for salvaged
materials, furniture, equipment.
• Support for this action and removing barriers
• Include the "lifecycle" when weighing what to do with city goods.
Could have "red tape"
• Could these things be donated to a charitable donation without it
being a gift of public funds?
Additional comments:
• Potential missing actions:
o Lobby at State level for changes re: packaging, etc.
o Public education/awareness around policy
Natural Systems and Water Resources
Action Notes
Incentivize low impact development projects • Support for this action
Natural drainage
Support regional air quality
Protect and restore streams and wetlands
Support food access and gardens • Support for this action
• Home composting to take care of yard and food waste
(City of Seattle example)
Additional comments:
• Will the plan address toxic run-off from pesticides by homeowners?
• Are there opportunities for collaboration with stormwater management action plan process?
Community Resilience and Wellbeing
Action Notes
Climate awareness for
residents
• Phone alerts—emergency response teams can help with the sense of
strong community and citizenship
• Do we currently send emails around climate events (like heat waves) and
resources (like cooling centers)?
Conduct outreach to
engage and share
benefits of renewable
energy with marginalized
communities
• Lack of action is likely because of price/feasibility —outreach should be
paired with incentives or financial assistance
• Need infrastructure to support electrification
• In general, with actions to support vulnerable communities, there needs
to be appropriate outreach to bring in those communities directly
Incentivize Adaptation
Upgrades
• Strong support for this action
• This seems like a timely action
• What is included in this action?
Neighborhood resilience
centers
• Strong support for this action
• This seems like a timely action
• Resilience centers are important and should be prioritized so that they are
in spots where they are most needed
• These should include cooling stations and power outage stations
• How do we support neighbors, older people, etc.?
• How can we provide additional access for those with mobility challenges ?
We need to provide a way to get to these centers
Evacuation routes &
temporary housing
• Seems strange that evacuation routes and temporary housing are lumped
together
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
Action Notes
•Seems like flooding evac routes already exist
Support job training
programs
•Support for this action
•Reach out to and include high schools in Renton
•What is the definition of green jobs?
•Is this within the scope of City of Renton? This seems regional/state level
•How does this tie in with other efforts or with King County strategies?
•Is there an incentive for companies to be certified green?
•Job opportunities and job training/certification programming targeted to
underserved community (City of Portland example)—provide these
opportunities to those not often provided with them
Equitable City hiring
contracts
Additional comments:
•Potential missing action: improve infrastructure that can mitigate for extreme events
Q&A
During the workshop, participants were invited to ask questions verbally or in the chat. At the end of the
workshop, from 7:30 – 8:00 pm, the City of Renton held an optional Q&A session. The questions and answers from
all Q&A sessions are summarized below.
Question: Can we have an overview of what’s been done to date (any concrete actions or resolutions from the
past ten years to lead into this CES 2.0)?
•Response: One of the first things we did was inventory the work that’s underway and look at
recommendations from the first plan. For example, one of those actions from CES 1.0 was an internal
green team, which was successful for a period of time. A lot of our work is consistent with the
recommendations in the original plan; for example, Public Works is working to reduce waste. We are also
members of King County Cities Climate Collaboration (K4C) to collaborate with other jurisdictions. We are
looking at what we have done and what improvements need to be made.
•Response: Additionally, we have achieved emissions savings by installing electric metering for water
usage, and we have done a lot to preserve tree canopy and improve carbon sequestration. We have also
done a lot of work on the Cedar River to enhance water quality and habitat restoration.
Question: Has anyone done an inventory of how incentives might help convince people to make changes to their
habits?
•Response: People have looked at behavior change and incentives, and some strategies do include
incentive programs.
Question: Are there strategies about decarbonizing the City-owned building portfolio?
•Response: Most emissions come from the community, but the buildings & energy focus area does include
actions about government buildings.
Question: What is the difference between commercial versus industrial?
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
• Response: Those classifications come directly from utilities (Puget Sound Energy and Seattle City Light).
Generally, the commercial classification is more about profit and industrial classification is more about
manufacturing and shipping.
Question: Are there enforcement mechanisms (“teeth”) to ensure we are meeting the goals we set?
• Response: Actions vary in terms of how much impact they have—e.g., education might have less of an
impact than a mandate. Our draft actions use a variety of levers. In terms of implementation and
accountability, we will include an implementation component to the plan and it will be up to the City to
execute the implementation.
• Response: There is a lot of emphasis on making sure we have implementable strategies and actions; this is
why we bring in other City departments and community members.
Question: So many decisions are based on dollar amounts, but there are other ways to make decisions (quality of
life, for example). How do we quantify or factor those values into decision making? There has to be a way to factor
public and community good into those decisions, both locally and society wide.
• Response: The City of Renton is planning to run a multi-criteria analysis on the CES 2.0 strategies and
actions; one of the criteria considered is co-benefits, so we are trying to capture benefits like human
health and wellbeing in the strategies and actions.
• Comment: Happiness Quotient is used by some places to assess the value of any proposed work or plan.
Question: Does this plan address recommendations for the City government or the community or Renton?
• Response: This plan, compared to the CES 1.0, has more of a community focus in addition to a City
government focus. The CES 2.0 will address both what the City and community can do.
Question: Does the CES 2.0 planning process have an equity component?
• Response: The City has a new department focused on equity and we are working to integrate equity
throughout the planning process.
Question: Is there revenue set aside in the City budget to implement this plan?
• Response: It comes down to matching funds. There are some big federal funds out there, but some of
those federal grants require so much work for tracking and reporting; we don’t have the staff time or
capacity to manage that. It’s a complicated question.
o We are always looking for funding sources, but there’s also a need to prioritize some of the work
moving forward. Elected officials do listen to community members, so this is where impact can
start to happen.
• Response: The 2022–2027 business plan is a 5-year business plan that lays out City goals and vision. Last
year, we added climate adaptation, sustainability, and resilience goals. If something is not on the business
plan, it doesn't get funded; the business goals drive funding. Having climate specifically called out on the
business plan means we will fund it.
Question: Has Renton thought about splitting off from Puget Sound Energy (PSE) and moving to a PUD or BPA to
switch from coal-powered energy to more hydro? Jefferson County split from PSE about 12 years ago with a
surprising amount of success.
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
• Response: Renton is on the waiting list for PSEs Green Power program (solar and wind). Also, CETA
requires that all utilities eliminate coal from their portfolios by 2025 and are carbon neutral by 2030, so
PSE will have cleaner energy in the coming years.
• Comment: Individual homeowners also have the option to sign up for the solar option with PSE for a
portion of their energy consumption. It does cost a bit more monthly, but it's a chance to do our part and
see whether the results are positive.
o Following the message about PSE's Green Power Program, they have a handy calculator that you
can use to see what your cost difference might look like: https://www.pse.com/green-
options/Renewable-Energy-Programs/greensolarcalculator
Question: Is there a chance of creating more revenue through the levy process to fund this process beyond
existing sources? (E.g., City of Seattle levies)
• Response: One note to consider is how much capacity the community has for adding taxes. Delicate
balance. We can note this when we look at our action list .
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
Community Survey Summary
May 18 th ̶ June 23 rd | SurveyMonkey
Survey Summary Overview
This document summarizes feedback from the City of Renton’s community survey, administered on SurveyMonkey
from May 18th to June 22nd at 11:59pm. The input gathered from this survey will be used to inform the Clean
Economy Strategy (CES) 2.0 strategies and actions.
• A total of 305 participants took the survey
o 238 English responses
o 65 Chinese responses
o 2 Tagalog responses
Survey Objectives
The survey provided an opportunity for community members to learn about the CES 2.0 project and planning
process, give feedback on draft strategies and actions, and ask questions about the project to City staff. The sur vey
goals were:
• Introduce the CES 2.0 project goals, timeline, and progress
• Introduce the CES 2.0 draft strategies
• Gather input on proposed strategies and actions
Overarching Feedback & Key Takeaways
✓ Most respondents are familiar with climate change issues
✓ Most respondents shared that Renton’s emissions reduction and climate resilience goals should be on par
with King County’s
✓ Most respondents feel it is very important to prioritize actions that support social equity and vulnerable
community members
✓ Respondents expressed that they are very concerned about the following climate impacts (listed in order
of priority): changes in loss of habitat & species, extreme temperatures & heat waves, wildfires & smoky
air, extreme precipitation & flooding, and drought & water supply
✓ Respondents shared that the most common consequence of climate change they have experienced is
discomfort, changes in daily routine, and adverse health impacts
✓ Increasing green space, tree canopy cover, and outdoor recreation are identified as top priority co-
benefits to consider when developing actions, followed by improving energy and water conservation, and
improving social equity and supporting historically underserved communities
✓ Respondents identified impact and cost as being the most imp ortant criteria to consider when choosing
climate actions to prioritize
✓ Across all focus areas, most respondents either support or strongly support all strategies. The most
strongly supported strategy by focus area is listed below:
o B&E: Support energy resilience by investing in renewable energy and community-scale energy
projects
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
o T&LU: Reduce emissions from gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles
o W&MM: increase waste diversion, especially organic waste, to reduce waste-related GHG
emissions from landfills.
o NS&WR: Preserve, restore, and protect natural systems to increase opportunities for carbon
sequestration (capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in soil or plants).
o CR&W: Prepare Renton for future extreme events
Survey Responses
Survey response data is shown below. Each question includes a bar graph stratified into English Chinese, and
Tagalog responses and the number of respondents (n). For survey questions that included “other” as option,
responses were consolidated into themes followed by the number of times that theme arose in the comments. All
“other” responses that were irrelevant, harmful, and/or not substantive (e.g., “no”, “N/A”) were omitted from this
summary.
1. Which of the following best describes you? Select all that apply n = 299
2. What is your zip code?1 n = 305
1 The sum of Renton zip code percentages equals 63%. The other 37% of respondents indicated zip codes outside
of Renton’s City boundaries.
Own, rent, or
live in
Renton
(65%)
Work in
Renton
(28%)
Student
(19%)
Business
owner (9%)
Retired (4%)Other (1%)
0
50
100
150
200
250
Tagalog
Chinese
English
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
3. How would you best describe your awareness and understanding of climate change issues n = 295
4. In the CES 2.0, the City will set goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (the heat trapping pollution that
causes climate change). Compared to other King County and city governments’ goals, Renton’s goals to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions should be… n = 290
I am familiar with
some climate
change issues
(47%)
I am well-informed
about climate
change issues
(30%)
I have heard about
climate change
issues but don’t
know much about
them
(19%)
I am not familiar
with climate
change issues
(2%)
I prefer not to say
(2%)
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
English Chinese Tagalog
98059
13%
98058
13%
98055
10%
98056
19%
98178
1%
98057
7%
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
5. In CES 2.0, the City will set goals to address the impacts of climate change (e.g., reducing or preparing for
impacts from flood, smoke, heat, landslides, and other climate related events). Compared to other King
County and city governments’ goals, Renton’s climate preparedness goals should be… n = 291
6. How important is it for the CES 2.0 to prioritize actions that support social equity and vulnerable comm unity
members who are most affected by climate impacts? Vulnerable community members could include, for
On par: City of Renton
should have similar goals
as other King County local
governments for
preparing for climate
impacts
(44%)
More ambitious: City of
Renton should be a
regional leader in
reducing greenhouse gas
emissions
(38%)
Less ambitious: City of
Renton should focus
resources on other,
higher priority issues
(16%)
I prefer not to say
(1%)
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
English Chinese Tagalog
On par: City of Renton
should have similar goals
as other King County local
governments for reducing
greenhouse gas emissions
(47%)
More ambitious: City of
Renton should be a
regional leader in climate
action
(37%)
Less ambitious: City of
Renton should focus
resources on other,
higher priority issues
(15%)
I prefer not to say
(1%)
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
English Chinese Tagalog
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
example, individuals with health conditions that make them more sensitive to smoky air or individuals who
have outdoor jobs that may expose them to smo ky air. (n = 276)
Those (2) who answered other indicated the following:
• Reduce crime • Health issues
7. Please share any climate-related initiatives in Renton you are familiar with. If you have a link to a website or
document, please indicate. n = 154
• Global Climate Initiative
• Spring and fall recycling at RTC
• Climate Protection Initiative
• Growing of 3 million trees initiative
• Clean Up events with the Renton
Downtown Partnership
• Solar Washington
• New/repurposed buildings with LEED
certification
• The Western Climate Institute (WCI)
requires ASTM D6866 testing for waste
derived fuel emissions
• Recommended that supermarkets reduce
single-use plastic shopping bags
• Advanced coal low-carbon technology
• Enhance the ability of ecological
construction and environmental protection.
** Remainder of responses were “no” or “N/A”
Very important –
this is an important
aspect of meeting
our climate goals.
(57%)
Somewhat
important – this is
important but less
important than
meeting our climate
goals.
(33%)
Not important – this
should not be a
priority in the CES
2.0.
(6%)
Not sure
(4%)
Other
(1%)
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
180
English Chinese Tagalog
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
How concerned are you about the following in Renton? n = 273
8. Are there any other climate impacts you are concerned about? n = 241
• Heavy and more frequent rains and storms
• Extreme cold and snowfall
• Heat waves and extreme heat
• Erratic weather patterns
• Ocean acidification and sea level rise
• Natural disasters such as earthquakes,
tornadoes, tsunamis, tornados
• Flooding and debris flow
• Disproportionate impacts to health equity
and the social determinants of health,
especially for historically marginalized
groups (i.e., houseless folks)
• Loss of pollinators
• Impacts to our health and future
generations
• Stormwater runoff
• Sea intrusion erodes the coastal zone
• The glacier rose
• Desertification
• Air quality and pollution
• Water quality and pollution (i.e.,
microplastics and impact to aquatic species
(i.e., salmon)
• Industrial waste
• Ability to provide accommodations for
climate refugees
• Impacts of the asphalt plant, vehicle, and
aircraft traffic
• Impact of development on biodiversity,
particularly wetlands
• Litter and pollution
• Loss of trees, biodiversity and forests
• Effect on crops/agriculture
9. How have climate impacts (such as heat waves, smoky air, drought, storms and flooding, and the spread of
insects) affected you in the past few years? Select all that apply. n = 272
7%
10%12%
9%
4%
29%
38%38%
29%31%
60%
47%47%
57%
61%
5%5%4%5%5%
Extreme
temperatures &
heat waves
Extreme
precipitation &
flooding
Drought & water
supply
Wildfires & smoky
air
Changes in or loss of
habitat & species
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
Not concerned Somewhat concerned Very concerned Not sure
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
Those (11) who answered other indicated the following:
• Had to stay inside (due to smoke)
• Had to install AC in my home which is very expensive but without it, it is a health risk to my family
• Summer heat waves have caused negative health effects to humans and animals (pets)
10. The City's climate actions can have benefits beyond addressing climate change. We call these co-benefits.
Which of the following co -benefits are your top three (3) priorities? n = 264 I experienced discomfort(58%)My household or I had to change my daily routine(36%)My health was affected(35%)I had to find cool places outside my home(34%)I have missed school or work, or could not do schoolor work as normal(31%)I was evacuated or put on evacuation alert (e.g.,flooding, wildfires)(17%)I have experienced property damage due todroughts, flooding, or fires(17%)My child's school was closed(15%)None of the above(9%)Other(4%)0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
180
English Chinese Tagalog
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
Increasing green space, tree canopy cover and outdoor recreation(47%)Improving energy and water conservation (36%)Improving social equity and supporting historically underserved communities(35%)Reducing costs, such as utility bills for residents(33%)Improving air and water quality(31%)Improving the economy and creating jobs(29%)Improving public health and safety(22%)Improving food security(19%)Building climate resilience (e.g., improving disaster preparedness and safety)(16%)Increasing municipal revenue(6%)Improving mobility(6%)Supporting local businesses(6%)Other(2%)0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
English Chinese Tagalog
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
Those (4) who answered other indicated the following:
• Ensure lake views are not interrupted by cement walls along highway
• Improve walkability of neighborhoods
11. What do you think is most important to consider in choosing actions for climate action and preparedness in
Renton? Rank from most important (#1) to least important (#5). n = 256
Buildings & Energy
12. What is your level of support for these strategies? n = 251
50%
15%
10%
14%
11%
19%
24%26%
18%
15%16%
25%24%
20%
16%
9%
15%
28%27%
20%
7%
21%
12%
21%
38%
Impact Cost Feasibility Equity Co-benefits
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
1 2 3 4 5
2%2%3%
7%
3%3%
17%15%16%
42%40%
34%32%
40%
43%
Transition buildings towards
clean, electric power.
Support energy efficiency in
buildings.
Support energy resilience by
investing in renewable energy and
community-scale energy projects.
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
45%
50%
Strongly oppose Oppose Neutral Support Strongly support
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
13. Are there any critical strategies missing from the list? n = 88
• Maximize use of alternate energy sources such as wind and solar (2)
• Require new buildings (both residential and commercial) to include green methods such as solar power,
gray water collection, energy efficient windows, etc. (1)
• Create a more climate-resilient grid (1)
• Offer rebates to homeowners to improve energy efficiency (i.e., heating, cooling and solar power
systems; and energy-efficient appliances such as water heaters, washers/dryers, stoves/ovens,
refrigerators, etc.) (1)
• Build new instead of retrofitting existing buildings (1)
• Explore nuclear energy as an energy source (1)
• Incentivize buildings to be constructed with EV chargers, electric heat, etc. (1)
• Zone to allow individuals to pursue renewable energy on single family housing plots (1)
• Reinvest into existing buildings (1)
• Offering incentives for reducing energy consumption (i.e., turning off and unplugging electronics) (1)
• Improve energy efficiency and access to ACs and safe heaters for multi-family buildings (1)
• Incentivize developers exceeding sustainability goals (1)
• Ensure affordable housing is included in strategies (1)
** Remainder of responses were “no” or “N/A”
14. Do you have any other comments related to these strategies? n = 86
• Rely on renewable power (3)
• Provide subsidies for residents and businesses to make eco-friendly upgrades (i.e., solar panels) (3)
• Concern that a transition from natural gas to electric will increase cost to community members (2)
• Consider equity impacts of switching to energy efficient appliances (cost burden for low -income families)
(2)
• Building energy neutral/independent housing for low income or homeless people would include a lot of
co-benefits to the community
• Provide Education and communication to the public on EV benefits (1)
• Subsidize and promote EV chargers (1)
• Require all parking lots to have shade and all municipal buildings and parking lots to have solar panels (1)
• Incentivize existing buildings to retrofit buildings to meet energy code (1)
** Remainder of responses were “no” or “N/A”
Transportation & Land Use
15. What is your level of support for these actions? n = 250
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
16. Are there any critical strategies missing from this list? n = 87
• Encourage the use of alternative transportation modes (taking public transit, biking, walking, scooting,
etc.) (5)
o Support initiatives to make public transportation in and out of Renton more feasible (1)
o Create a safer pedestrian and bike friendly community, and develop more infrastructure (i.e.,
bike paths, walking paths) (2)
• Expand publicly available EV charging infrastructure in the City (3)
• Restricting vehicles from the road (2)
• Electrify Renton’s public transit (2)
• Replace the City's gas-powered vehicles with EVs (2)
• Increase housing density with better zoning laws to help people live in more walkable/bike-able areas (3)
o Changing zoning, building codes, right of way uses to create walkable neighborhoods with
commercial, residential, transit connection all within 3 blocks would transform emissions while
increasing revenue return on infrastructure (1)
• Make efficient use of residential building areas, allow for ADU and up zoning (1)
• Ensure that mixed use and compact centers prioritize locally owned businesses (1)
• Incentivize EV purchasing and infrastructure installment (1)
• Increase land for green/open spaces (1)
** Remainder of responses were “no” or “N/A”
17. Do you have any other comments related to these strategies? n = 77
• Concern over environmental benefits of EVs (5)
• Fix the roads and expand sidewalk network (2)
• Think about equity impacts and unintended consequences for already marginalized/lower income
households (2)
• Expand public transit options that service other parts of the metro area (expand light rail expansions to
include a Renton connection to Bellevue) (2)
3%3%4%4%6%
2%
17%
23%
27%
37%
32%
41%39%
36%
26%
Reduce emissions from gasoline
and diesel-powered vehicles.
Encourage a transition towards
electric vehicles.
Support mixed use and compact
centers.
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
45%
Strongly oppose Oppose Neutral Support Strongly support
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
• Make walking and biking safe, make public transit efficient and frequent (1)
• Offer public challenges and incentivize walking and biking. Gamified local challenges about walking,
biking, etc. to local businesses (1)
• Plant of more trees (1)
• Make parking a requirement for new building projects (1)
• Rezone and require neighborhoods to develop as walkable centers (1)
• Encourage mixed use centers are a great idea that include well-paying and advanced-career jobs within
them (1)
** Remainder of responses were “no” or “N/A”
Waste & Materials Management
18. What is your level of support for these strategies? n = 249
19. Are there any critical strategies missing from this list? n = 78
• Improve recycling options and offer more opportunities for people to dispose of hard to get rid of things
(Styrofoam, old paint, packing materials, etc.) (5)
• Increase awareness of waste sorting and make it easier to recycle (i.e., how to compost at home, what is
and isn’t recyclable) (2)
• Discourage the consumption of non-renewable and high energy consuming materials (2)
• Eliminate single-use plastic across Renton, to include plastic straws, bottles, bags, eating utensils, takeout
containers, etc. (2)
• Build a waste disposal station and recycling facility (2)
• Host local rummage and garage sales to promote reuse (1)
• Don't increase the price of our trash and recycling pick up (1)
2%2%
4%4%
13%
16%
43%
41%
38%38%
Increase waste diversion, especially organic waste,
to reduce waste-related GHG emissions from
landfills.
Promote sustainable consumption and reduce
waste generation to reduce upstream GHG
emissions from goods and materials.
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
45%
50%
Strongly oppose Oppose Neutral Support Strongly support
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
• Consider garbage incineration power generation (1)
• Increase tax on things that have a purchase to trash life of less that one year (1)
• Establish a circular economy in Renton; look at grants through USDA / Department of agriculture (1)
• Support farming practices that sequester soil (1)
• Apply waste diversion strategies to construction projects (1)
• Require compostable packaging and end plastic packaging (1)
** Remainder of responses were “no” or “N/A”
20. Do you have any other comments related to these strategies? n = 67
• Fine companies that incorrectly sort their waste (1)
• Increase household recycling options (i.e., standalone textile collection bins) (1)
• Require businesses to use composable food ware (such as Taco Time) (1)
• Expand our compost process to include digestion so it can process more materials (1)
• Implement garbage classification (1)
• Make garbage pickup more efficient (establish trash collection sites every other block using underground
vaults and eliminate residential-trash pickup at homes) (1)
** Remainder of responses were “no” or “N/A”
Natural Systems & Water Resources
21. What is your level of support for these strategies? n = 247
22. Are there any critical strategies missing from this list? n = 72
• Protect water resources (9)
o Don't allow an asphalt plant by the Cedar River. Our water resources need protecting. (1)
2%2%3%4%
11%13%
41%
37%
43%
46%
Improve resilience of natural systems to climate
change impacts, including flooding.
Preserve, restore, and protect natural systems to
increase opportunities for carbon sequestration
(capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and
storing it in soil or plants).
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
45%
50%
Strongly oppose Oppose Neutral Support Strongly support
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
o Remove of plastics and harmful chemicals such as PFAS in water and environment (1)
o Reduce the number of pesticides and herbicides used on lawns that wash into our waterways (1)
o Penalizing overwatering lawns (1)
o Institute wastewater treatment programs in Renton to reduce stormwater runoff into rivers,
lakes and streams. Renton should participate in the RainWise program. (1)
o Create more buffer around our water features. Create protected areas for trees and ecosystem
(1)
o Replace pavement with permeable pavement. (1)
o Provide incentives for projects that include 100% onsite retention and/or infiltration of runoff (1)
o Invest in stream, floodplain, and wetland restoration (1)
• Plant more native plants and trees (5)
o Particularly along riparian corridors to reduce erosion and stormwater runoff pollution (1)
• Support community farming (2)
o Develop community food forest like beacon Hill (1)
o Support local farmers who are practicing sustainable farming practices. (1)
• Strengthen greening of City (2)
• Develop rain gardens to prevent flooding (1)
• Strengthen Renton’s tree preservation regulations (1)
• Incentives for more plant-based eating options (1)
• Provide more city trails (1)
• Increase natural system resilience (1)
• Utilize the wisdom of native peoples for land and forest management (1)
• Strengthen the development of green mines (1)
• Provide education to the community about the work that is planned/happening, and how to support it (1)
• Expand public housing options (1)
** Remainder of responses were “no” or “N/A”
23. Do you have any other comments related to these strategies? n = 58
• Create incentives for developers to use certain types of trees/plantings for developments or critical area
mitigation projects that result in bioremediation (1)
• Strengthen tree removal standards (2)
o Reduce the size of tree determined to be significant, educate the public regarding tree removal
requirements, and enforce sanctions on property owners that remove healthy trees (2)
** Remainder of responses were “no” or “N/A”
Community Resiliency & Wellbeing
24. What is your level of support for these strategies? n = 246
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
25. Are there any critical strategies missing from this list? n = 63
• Climate education and awareness (4)
• Encourage folks to find careers in green industries (2)
o Coordinate with technical college to provide education for green jobs with training on local
Renton facilities (e.g., stormwater BMPs, natural systems, trails, bike infrastructure, etc.) (1)
• House houseless communities in Renton (1)
• Offer guidance in creating preparedness for individuals and providing for low income residents (1)
• Prepare those most vulnerable (unsheltered, disabled, low income, first language other than English, etc.)
for future extreme events. (1)
• Subsidize the cost of renovating homes to be more energy efficient and prepared for extreme weather
events (such as heat pumps). (1)
** Remainder of responses were “no” or “N/A”
26. Do you have any other comments related to these strategies? n = 58
• Green jobs (3):
o Renton needs to lead in green job creation (1)
o Prioritize local green jobs for people who live and work in Rent on (1)
o Green jobs could include simple things like trash pickup to beautify our city (1)
• Explore permaculture as a perspective on resilience (1)
• Concern about the potential for taxes to increase (1)
• Provide air conditioning units for local residents or subsidize the cost of air conditioning units. (1)
** Remainder of responses were “no” or “N/A”
Demographics
27. How did you hear about this survey? Select all that apply. n = 245
3%3%2%4%3%4%
15%
20%
17%
44%
41%41%
34%33%35%
Prepare Renton for future
extreme events.
Increase community capacity -
particularly those most vulnerable
- to respond to future climate
change.
Spur local green jobs.
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
45%
50%
Strongly oppose Oppose Neutral Support Strongly support
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
Those (30) who answered other indicated the following:
• Notice at park
• Next door
• Neighbor
• Email
• Teacher/School
• City official
• Co-worker
** Remainder of responses were “no” or “N/A”
28. How would you prefer to receive information about preparing for climate impacts? Select all that apply. n =
237 Social media (Facebook,Twitter, Instagram,NextDoor)(52%)City of Renton website orlistserv(35%)Friend/family/colleague(24%)Community organization(16%)Other(12%)0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
English Chinese Tagalog
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
Those (10) who answered other indicated the following:
• Direct mail/newsletter from the City
• An app
• Public School
• Reddit
• This Week in Renton
• Via National Public Radio like KUOW or
KNKX.
** Remainder of responses were “no” or “N/A”
29. Do you, or the people you live with, own or rent your home? n = 239 City of Renton website(50%)Emails from the City(45%)Facebook(45%)A local newspaper or news website(33%)Twitter(28%)From neighborhood or community organizations(26%)Instagram(24%)NextDoor(16%)From my child’s school(16%)Radio advertisements(15%)From my place of worship(5%)Other(4%)0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
English Chinese Tagalog
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
Those (2) who answered other indicated the following:
• I am underage
• Support residents of Renton
** Remainder of responses were “no” or “N/A”
30. Which of the following best represents your race/ethnicity? Select all that apply? n = 240
Own
(78%)
Rent (includes
student housing)
(16%)
N/A - I am currently
unhoused or in
temporary housing
(5%)
I am currently
unhoused or in
temporary housing
(0%)
Other (1%)
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
180
200
English Chinese Tagalog
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
31. What language(s) do you primarily speak at home? Select all that apply. n = 240 White or Caucasian(60%)Asian or Asian American: Southeast Asian(11%)Hispanic, Latino, Latina, or Latinx(8%)Asian or Asian American: East Asian(8%)I prefer not to say(5%)Asian or Asian American: South Asian(5%)Black or African American(5%)Asian or Asian American: Other(3%)Middle Eastern, North African, or Arab American(3%)Native American, American Indian, or Alaska Native(2%)Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander(2%)Other(0%)0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
English Chinese Tagalog
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Survey Summary
Those (4) who answered other indicated the following:
• Greek
• Punjabi
• Nepali
• Indonesian
** Remainder of responses were “no” or “N/A” English(95%)Mandarin(8%)Spanish(5%)Cantonese(2%)Russian(2%)Tagalog(1%)Vietnamese(1%)Amharic(1%)I prefer not to say(1%)Ukrainian(0%)Somali(0%)Other(2%)0
50
100
150
200
250
English Chinese Tagalog
City of Renton Clean Economy Strategy 2.0
Open House Summary
32. What is your age? n = 240
33. What is your household income? n = 239
34. What is your Email address? n = 274
20-44 years
(65%)
45-64 years
(19%)
19 or younger
(10%)
65 or over
(4%)
I prefer not to say
(2%)
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
180
English Chinese Tagalog
$100,000-$124,999(23%)Over $150,000(21%)$75,000-$99,000(16%)I prefer not to say(15%)$50,000-$74,999(8%)$125,000-$149,999(8%)$25,000-$49,999(7%)Less than $25,000(2%)0
10
20
30
40
50
60
English Chinese Tagalog