The BEAT News January 1, 2008

Benjamin H. Grumbles
Assistant Administrator Office of Water

Water Headlines is a weekly on-line publication that announces publications, policies, and activities of the US Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Water

In This Week’s Water Headlines:
1) WaterSense Labeled Faucets and Aerators on Shelves Soon
2) Guidance to Help Implement Drinking Water Regulations
3) UIC Website Updated
4) $8 Million in Grants to Help Small Public Water Systems
5) Presentations from STORET/WQX Users Conference Online
6) Subscribe to Water Headlines

1) WaterSense Labeled Faucets and Aerators on Shelves Soon Consumers can soon find an easy, new way to save water in the loo: with WaterSense labeled bathroom sink faucets and faucet accessories. Already more than 30 models have earned the WaterSense label since EPA released the final specification in October, and by early 2008 these water-efficient, high-performing faucets and accessories (such as aerators) should be available in stores. Currently, Americans are wasting 60 billion gallons of water every year with inefficient faucets while simply washing their hands or brushing their teeth. That translates into $350 million in water utility bills and about $600 million in energy costs to supply, heat, and treat that water. WaterSense labeled bathroom sink faucets will reduce water flow by 30 percent with no sacrifice in performance or change in routine. Savings could be even greater for households replacing older faucets, which can flow at rates of 3 gallons per minute (gpm) or more. WaterSense labeled faucets are independently certified to perform as well as or better than standard faucets, maintaining good water pressure while not exceeding 1.5 gpm. To learn more about WaterSense labeled faucets and the final specification, please visit the following website.

2) Guidance to Help Implement Drinking Water Regulations EPA is releasing draft guidance to support revisions to the Lead and Copper Rule which were issued in October 2007. The revisions to the rule will enhance the implementation in the areas of monitoring, treatment, customer awareness, public education, and lead service line replacement. The agency is requesting input on six draft documents that will assist states and public water systems with understanding the revisions, including State Implementation Guidance, Guides and Fact Sheets to understand the new Public Education and other Public Information requirements, and a Quick Reference Guide. The documents, which are available for comment through January 31, 2008, are available at the following website. EPA is also releasing a poster, Removing Multiple Contaminants from Drinking Water: Issues to Consider, to help regulators and water organizations better assist small water systems with drinking water treatment. Public water systems that need to add treatment for one contaminant, such as arsenic, may find that they need to consider other water quality issues. Choosing a treatment technology that can remove several co-occurring contaminants may be more efficient and cost effective. This poster describes treatment technologies that can remove multiple contaminants, identifies the contaminants that can be removed, and summarizes related operational and waste disposal issues. The poster is available at the following website.

3) UIC Website Updated EPA has revised its website for the Underground Injection Control (UIC) program. This program regulates injection activities to prevent contamination of underground drinking water resources. The new website has basic information about each of the types of wells that are regulated under the program; videos, posters and other publications that show how the wells are constructed and managed; and compliance assistance information for well-owners. The site also has background on EPA’s current effort to develop a proposed regulation for the underground injection of carbon dioxide as part of a larger carbon capture and storage effort to stabilize atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations. website

4) $8 Million in Grants to Help Small Public Water Systems EPA has awarded grants to two organizations to provide training and technical assistance to small and/or rural public water systems over the next year and a half. The National Rural Water Association has been selected as the recipient of $5 million to provide training and technical assistance for drinking water rule implementation, capacity development and water systems operations. The West Virginia University Research Corporation/National Environmental Services Center has been selected as the recipient of $3 million to provide training and technical assistance for source water and wellhead protection. More information about EPA’s efforts to help small public water systems is available at the following website.

5) Presentations from STORET/WQX Users Conference Online Presentations from the 2007 STORET/WQX Users Conference in November are now available online. On November 27-29, EPA’s Office of Wetlands, Oceans and Watersheds hosted 201 participants in Austin, TX for the 2007 STORET/WQX Users Conference. STORET, EPA’s repository for water quality data, has been enhanced substantially over the past year to add the Water Quality Exchange (WQX) framework to make it easier for states and others to submit and share water quality monitoring data over the Internet. The conference provided an opportunity for users of the STORET/WQX system to learn more about this new WQX system. During the conference, users from state, tribal, interstate, academic, and watershed organizations also shared information about how they are using STORET/WQX to manage and share water quality monitoring data, including beach water quality data, and how they are integrating STORET with GIS mapping applications. For more information please visit the conference Website

6) Subscribe to Water Headlines Please forward this message to your friends and colleagues who share an interest in water-related issues and would like to hear from EPA’s Office of Water. To subscribe to the Water Headlines listserve: Send an email message, leave the subject line blank, and address it to: [email protected]
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Allendale School Sampling Results

The following fact sheets were sent home with faculty and staff in October and December of 2007:

Allendale soil sample fact sheet – Oct 2007.pdf
Allendale soil sample results and removal fact sheet – Dec 2007.pdf

Once again, PCBs to be removed from schoolyard – 12/19/2007

Somehow BEAT thought that all the soil around Allendale school, except the deeper soil right next to the foundation of the school, had been removed and replaced with clean soil. Looking back at the Final Completion Report for the Allendale School Removal Action, by the General Electric Company, Pittsfield, Massachusetts, February 2000 (pdf), we can see that was not the case. (Look at Figure 3) There is a lot of area east and west of the main school yard that was left alone. The reason soil in these areas was not removed was that grid sampling gave no indication of high levels of PCBs in these areas.

PCB Testing Shows High Levels

However, recently, GE had to sample on its property right near the school yard as part of the Consent-Decree-required grid sampling for the “Hill 78 Remainder Area”.* (The “Hill 78 Remainder Area” is the entire area bounded by Tyler Street extension/Allendale School to the north, the General Dynamics Parking lot to the east, Merrill Road to the South, and New York Ave to the west. It excludes the Hill 78 and Building 71 On-Plant Consolidation Areas (OPCAs – or toxic waste dumps depending on your terminology)).

During the testing, high levels of PCBs were found near the fence separating the Hill 78 Remainder Area from Allendale School. EPA then tested the soil on the Allendale School side of the fence. These tests showed PCBs at levels as high as 33 ppm in the top 1-3 feet, but below the surface soil which had tested below 2 ppm. EPA required GE to remove all the soil down to 6 feet deep around the high level sample, out to where samples showed all below 4 ppm. (Notice of removal action with map 2 pages )

Aerial Photo Comparison

BEAT asked the EPA why they believe that all the other areas at Allendale School, that had not previously had soil removed, did not contain high levels of PCBs. EPA’s answer was that they looked at maps of pre and post 1950s. The area that is now to be removed appears to have been low lying – sort of like a trench, that in later photos appears to have been filled in. The other areas of the school yard that have not had soil removed, did not appear to have changed in a similar way.

BEAT suggested that a good project to figure out where in Pittsfield should be tested for PCBs would be to have someone examine aerial photos pre and post 1950 to look for low lying areas that are then filled in. The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection contacted us to say that they have done this and would BEAT like to find out more about what was actually done. Yes! We will discuss this with the DEP in 2008.

New Wells

In October, 2007, when EPA first mentioned it would be conducting more soil sampling on the Allendale School grounds, they also announced (pdf) that GE would be installing 4 new small wells on the Allendale School grounds to measure groundwater elevation below the school property. There appears to be very high ground water here – which means that Hill 78 is sitting in groundwater? Not a good place for an unlined landfill. Ground water moves downhill – toward the river. There are monitoring wells around Hill 78.

* This sampling was NOT in conjunction with installing new sewer and stormdrain pipes to go around Hill 78, to replace the ones that currently carry storm and sewer water under Hill 78 as BEAT had previously reported. Sorry.

These pipes were never designed to have a huge, very heavy landfill built on top of them. BEAT and other environmental groups asked about the integrity of these pipes. We were also worried about the outside of the pipes acting as a preferential pathways for PCB contaminated water to flow along. To address our concerns the pipes were examined and so was the soil and sediment at the outflow of the stormwater pipe where it emerges from under Hill 78 and its water flows off of GE property, under Merrill Road and through a pipe along Commercial Street into the Housatonic River. The soil and sediment showed very low levels of PCBs. The pipes integrity was suspect. However, the sampling for the layout of the new sewer and storm drain lines did not detect elevated levels of PCBs. During the winter of 2007-2008, the pipes under Hill 78 will be closed off, and new pipes will be laid to go around the Hill 78. (background on Hill 78)

The following fact sheets were sent home with faculty and staff in October and December of 2007:

Allendale soil sample fact sheet – Oct 2007.pdf
Allendale soil sample results and removal fact sheet – Dec 2007.pdf
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Jorling joins CET board of directors

The Center for Ecological Technology (CET) is pleased to announce that Tom Jorling has joined its Board of Directors.  Jorling is currently a visiting distinguished professor of environmental studies at the Center for Environmental Studies at Williams College . He lives with his wife Sandy in Williamstown.

Jorling has previously served as the director of Environmental Studies at Williams College ; as minority counsel to the U.S. Senate Committee for Public Works; and he has worked as assistant administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. He also previously headed New York State ’s Department of Environmental Conservation and spent a decade as vice-president for environmental affairs at International Paper. He retired in 2004.

CET has served as a local and regional resource for practical environmental solutions for 30 years. Its work focuses on energy efficiency, renewable energy, waste management and environmental education. In the last year alone, CET directly assisted more than 11,000 individuals through one-on-one assistance, workshops, classroom presentations and more. For more information about CET, visit www.cetonline.org.return to top

Governor Patrick Files Bond Bill Authorizing Investment in Land Conservation, Bridges and Recreation Facilities

Legislation provides unprecedented support for land acquisition, upgrade of park and beach facilities, other capital assets

BOSTON – Friday, December 21, 2007– Governor Deval Patrick today filed legislation making an unprecedented commitment to land conservation and investment in transportation infrastructure and recreational facilities operated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR).

The $1.4 billion Energy and Environment Bond Bill is nearly double the size of authorization from the last environment bond bill, passed in 2002, and is in line with Governor Patrick’s commitments to protecting open space from development and enhancing recreational facilities for all Massachusetts citizens. The funding authorization is based on the Administration’s five-year capital investment plan and related debt affordability analysis published in August.

“The Commonwealth needs parks, farmlands, and recreational facilities that are second to none, in order to attract new residents and visitors, and enhance our quality of life,” said Governor Patrick.

“This bond bill advances Governor Patrick’s priorities – land conservation and upgrading of assets in the care and custody of our state parks agency,” said Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs Ian Bowles. “It provides the bonding authority to give the citizens of the Commonwealth the great open spaces and the great parks, beaches, and recreation facilities they deserve.”

The 2008 Energy and Environment Bond Bill nearly doubles the authorization made in the 2002 environmental bond bill  – and more than doubles the investment authorized in assets under the care and custody of DCR, the statewide agency responsible for parks, beaches, and forests, reversing a past pattern of neglect.

The bond bill provides $665 million in borrowing authority for infrastructure and park assets. This bond authority includes $250 million for design and construction for DCR bridges in dire need of repair and reconstruction.  Bridges likely to receive attention under this bond authorization include the Woods Memorial Bridge in Everett and bridges in the Charles River Basin, pending the results of a sequencing study to determine the optimal order of repair and reconstruction. Also included in this bonding authority is $75 million in borrowing authority for urban parkways, and $213 million for other spending on state parks, urban reservations, harbor islands, hiking and biking trails, swimming pools, skating rinks, and campgrounds.

“Every visitor to state parks, forests and beaches has seen the effects of years of underinvestment in these great places, which provide recreational opportunities for millions of residents and draw visitors from around the country,” said Frank Gorke, director of Environment Massachusetts and director of the Conservation and Recreation Campaign. “A great state needs a great park system, and restoring our park system to greatness begins with this strong environmental bond bill. The Governor’s commitment to DCR in this bond will get us pointed toward clean, safe and accessible parks and beaches.”

For land conservation, the bond bill authorizes $355 million, up from $250 million in the 2002 environmental bond bill, allowing the administration to meet its goal of investing at least $50 million per year under the five-year capital spending plan announced in August. The five-year projected spending plan represents a 65 percent increase over annual land protection spending in the past four years, and 24 percent over annual spending from 1993 to 2003, adjusted for inflation.

Spending on land preservation cuts across agencies and programs, but going forward will reflect Governor Patrick’s three priorities:

  • Commonwealth Urban Parks: visionary urban parks located in neighborhoods where outdoor recreation is lacking
  • Commonwealth Habitat Reserves: saving the remaining large, undisturbed blocs of natural habitat for future generations and as destinations for “green tourism”
  • Commonwealth Working Landscapes: preserving agricultural and forest lands as viable enterprises that also maintain the rural landscape of Massachusetts

State-funded land conservation programs leverage a great deal of investment in land protection by private land trusts and municipalities. Based on past experience, Governor Patrick’s commitment to at least $50 million a year in state land acquisition and conservation restrictions should leverage an additional $75 million annually in municipal, land trust, federal, landowner gifts, and other private fund raising. In addition, conservation restrictions obtained by towns and land trusts working with conservation-minded landowners, which may reach 10,000 acres this year, often abut state protected land, adding another $40 million in land conservation associated with state land programs.

“Many communities are seeking to preserve their defining landscapes before they’re overwhelmed by development pressures,” said Whitney Hatch, Regional Director of The Trust for Public Land. “We find that communities are stepping up to the plate, but more often than not, a state matching grant is an essential piece of the conservation puzzle. We need this bond to replenish those grant programs. We thank Governor Patrick for this wise proposal to invest in our irreplaceable resources, and we hope the Legislature will quickly approve a new environmental bond.”

“It is a bold move for the Patrick Administration to file the largest environmental bond in the Commonwealth’s history. We especially commend the minimum of $50 million annually dedicated to land conservation,” said Mass Audubon President Laura Johnson. “Because we are currently losing more than 40 acres of open space per day, this investment is critical to aid the quickly closing window for land protection in Massachusetts.”

“This important proposal will greatly improve the Commonwealth’s ability to conserve land and address long overdue repairs in our parks,” said Sen. Pamela Resor, Senate chair of the Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources, and Agriculture. “I look forward to comments on the proposal as we work with the administration to act on this bill.”

“This document, our first full bond in six years, sets the stage for our environmental work over the next half-decade,” said Rep. Frank Smizik, House chair of the Joint Committee. “The Governor’s bill looks comprehensive, is generous in its bottom line, and puts us back on track after years of neglect. I’m particularly pleased to see authorization for subjects like climate change adaptation, land preservation, dam removal, and water supply protection.”

The $1.4 billion of authorization sought covers the estimated five-year spending amount and provides a reasonable level of flexibility to fund additional spending for environmental assets in the event that the Administration determines that the financial capacity exists to increase the state’s investment in our environment over the five-year period covered by the bond bill.
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Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) Program Overview

Public comments on the final allowance auction design study conducted for the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and the RGGI Staff Working Group (click here)

Letter sent to U.S. Congress from Environmental and Energy Agency Heads in RGGI participating states outlining principles for the design of a U.S. federal greenhouse gas cap-and-trade program. A generic version of the letter is posted that was sent to individual members of Congress from RGGI state delegations, as well as Congressional leadership, and members of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, House Committee on Energy and Commerce, and House Select Committee on Energy Independence & Global Warming (click here).
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The 4th round of the smart growth/smart energy technical assistance grants is now posted. Funding from this program may be able to help advance your efforts to redevelop and restore your riverfronts.

The Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs (EEA) has just made $100,000 in FY 08 grant funding available to the Commonwealth’s municipalities and Regional Planning Agencies in support of their efforts to implement Massachusetts’ Sustainable Development Principles.  Specifically, this program is intended to fund projects tied to a capital construction project such as site specific planning, engineering, and related activities necessary to increase energy efficiency and provide parks, renewable energy facilities, trails and greenways, homes and businesses and other facilities that are consistent with the Principles.

Eligible activities include: site specific planning, engineering, architectural, landscape design, and similar work in support of conservation and development projects that implement the Sustainable Development Principles such as park planning and design; trail planning and design; renewable energy facility planning and design; and site/building re-use planning and design.

NOTE: Unlike past grant rounds activities that are strictly planning in nature, such as the completion of Master, Open Space and Recreation, or Climate Protection Plans or the drafting of regulations, such as zoning bylaws/ordinances or subdivisions regulations, are not eligible for this grant round.

The Request for Responses for this grant opportunity can be found on the Commonwealth’s Comm-pass website (www.comm-pass.com).  Click on “Search for Solicitations” and then type in ENV 08 POL 6 into the “Keywords” box.

Responses are due on January 11th at 4:00 PM.

Happy Holidays,

Eric Hove
Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs
100 Cambridge Street, 9th Floor
Boston, MA 02114
P: 617.626.1131
F: 617.626.1181

An excerpt of the RFR is pasted in below.

Smart Growth/Smart Energy Technical Assistance Grants

OVERVIEW AND GOALS:  Through this announcement, Ian Bowles, Secretary of the Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs (EEA), makes available grant funding to the Commonwealth’s municipalities and Regional Planning Agencies in support of their efforts to implement Massachusetts’ Sustainable Development Principles (Attachment A).  Specifically, this program is intended to fund site specific planning, engineering, and related activities necessary to increase energy efficiency and provide parks, renewable energy facilities, trails and greenways, homes and businesses and other facilities that are consistent with the Principles.

Eligible activities include: site specific planning, engineering, architectural, landscape design, and similar work in support of conservation and development projects that implement the Sustainable Development Principles such as park planning and design; trail planning and design; renewable energy facility planning and design; and site/building re-use planning and design. EEA encourages proposals that facilitate the construction of projects to be built with other financial resources.

Activities that are strictly planning in nature, such as the completion of Master, Open Space and Recreation, or Climate Protection Plans or the drafting of regulations, such as zoning bylaws/ordinances or subdivisions regulations, are not eligible for this grant round.

The Smart Growth/Smart Energy Technical Assistance Grant Program is a component of the Patrick Administration’s efforts to encourage municipalities to implement the Commonwealth’s Sustainable Development Principles.  Those considering submission of a Response are encouraged to review the 22 modules included in the Smart Growth/Smart Energy Toolkit as many have potential for implementation through this grant program.

PROPOSALS SOUGHT FOR: Technical assistance for Massachusetts municipalities to implement the Sustainable Development Principles

TYPE OF PROCUREMENT: Grant

CONTACT PERSON: Kurt Gaertner
Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs
100 Cambridge Street, 9th Floor
Boston, MA 02114

Response DUE DATE: 11 January 2008 at 4:00 PM

SUBMIT RESPONSES TO: Kurt Gaertner (see above)

MULTIPLE CONTRACTS: Each community may submit only one application. Multiple applicants will be selected for funding.

BIDDERS CONFERENCE: No bidders’ conference will be held.   

Single Or Multiple Departments MAY Contract UNDER THIS RFR: All contracts awarded under this RFR will be utilized solely by EEA.

Total Anticipated Duration Of CONTRACT (S):  The contract period will end 30 June 2008 for contracts issued pursuant to this RFR. Any contract amendments, including extensions, are at the sole discretion of EEA and shall not exceed six months in duration.

Anticipated delivery of goods: For those contracts ending on June 30, 2008 delivery of all deliverables in draft form must be made prior to 22 May 2008, excluding periodic reports (see below).  All final deliverables for these contracts are due prior to 30 June 2008.

ANTICIPATED BUDGET: Up to $100,000 is anticipated to be available to fund responses to this RFR. EEA anticipates awarding approximately 7 contracts averaging $15,000. Contract awards are likely to range between $10,000 and $20,000 though exceptions may be made at the Secretary’s discretion.

MATCH REQUIREMENT: Respondent budget must represent a minimum non-state match of 25 percent.  Respondents may propose the use of in-kind services as matching funds.  Note: Volunteer time will not be accepted for matching purposes.  Respondents must submit letters of commitment from all organizations providing matching funds, including the amount to be provided, on the letterhead of the granting organizations.  If such funds are not yet formally available, Respondents must include a notice of intent to provide matching funds from the potential funding organizations and the amount that will be provided from each.  Respondents may not use any grant funding from any agency of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as matching funds.  Any funding from any non-state grant, public or private, must be accompanied by a letter from the grantor on their letterhead authorizing the use of matching funds.

PREVAILING WAGE APPLICABLE: No
IDENTIFICATION OF CONTRACTS WITH COMMONWEALTH AGENCIES OR SUBDIVISIONS: Yes
IDENTIFICATION OF FINANCIALLY INTERESTED PARTIES: No

RFR DISTRIBUTION (Comm-PASS):     This RFR has been distributed electronically using the Comm-PASS system.  It is the responsibility of every Respondent to check Comm-PASS for any addenda or modifications to an RFR to which they intend to respond.  The Commonwealth of Massachusetts and its subdivisions accept no liability and will provide no accommodations to Respondents who fail to check for amended RFRs and submit inadequate or incorrect responses.  Potential Respondents are advised to check the “last change” field on the summary page of RFRs for which they intend to submit a response to ensure they have the most recent RFR files.

Respondents may not alter RFR language or any RFR component files.  Those submitting a proposal must respond in accordance to the RFR directions and complete only those sections that prompt a Respondent for a response.  Modifications to the body of this RFR, specifications, terms and conditions, or which change the intent of this RFR are prohibited.  Any unauthorized alterations will disqualify response.

RESPONDENT ELIGIBILITY: This RFR is open to –

Municipalities (individually or as a group with an identified lead community with whom the state will contract). Municipalities may, subject to EEA approval, sub-contract with non-profits, planning consultants, and regional planning agencies to complete approved proposals.

· Regional Planning Agencies (on behalf of a community or communities for the implementation of specific task.)  Note: Applications from RPAs will be reviewed on a community-by-community/task-by-task basis in order to incorporate the Commonwealth Capital score for each community that is the subject of a Proposal.  This may result in some communities that are part of a regional application receiving funding but not others. RPAs may, subject to EEA approval, sub-contract with non-profits and planning consultants.   Applications from Regional Planning Agencies require a letter of endorsement from any community which is the subject of the proposal.

PROJECT DEFINITION:  EEA seeks to further implementation of the Sustainable Development Principles within the Commonwealth.  Projects that lead to “shovel in the ground” utilization of the techniques found in the Smart Growth/Smart Energy Toolkit are preferred.

Examples of tasks suitable for funding under this RFR include but are not limited to:

Application of Low Impact Development and/or LEED (green building) design principles to a particular site or building

  • Incorporation of enhanced energy efficiency practices or other sustainable development practices into what would otherwise be a conventional development project.
  • Site specific layout and design of a renewable energy facility (such as a siting plan for a wind turbine), smart parking, or other facility that implements one or more of the Principles.
  • Design of a site or building pursuant to a mill building re-use bylaw/ordinance
  • Design of an alternative wastewater disposal system to serve a development project that is consistent with the Sustainable Development Principles.

GRANT REQUIREMENTS: In exchange for the assistance, contracts executed under this RFR will include a clause noting that funded proponents must agree to share the end product of the funded activities with EEA and with other communities in the Commonwealth through reports, meetings, workshops, and to highlight these activities in print, on the web or other media outlets. EEA is to be credited for project funding.

All contracts resulting from this RFR will include a mechanism for periodic reporting of progress.  The mechanism must include brief project updates submitted every quarter.  For regional responses separate reports for each community must be created.  These updates will include a summary of tasks achieved and include all public outreach materials created during this period.

A final report is also required.  This final report must include a copy of the completed tasks as contracted (site design plans, architectural renderings, etc.). An electronic copy and two paper copies of all deliverables must be sent to EEA. One electronic copy and two hard copies of the final reports and deliverables are required. Design plans should be submitted as 11 x 17 size documents.

 Invoicing: The selected recipients will prepare invoices and provide supporting records that detail specific project costs during the invoice period.  Only work completed during the period of the executed contract will be eligible for reimbursement.  Final invoices are due on or before 20 July 2008.  10 percent of the total project cost will be withheld until all deliverables are submitted, including reports.

 SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS: Submit ONE original (clearly marked as such) and FOUR copies of the Proposal along with a CD containing an electronic copy of the anticipated scope of work and budget.  Each Proposal must clearly identify the RFR number (ENV 08 POL 25) on the title page of the Proposal and on the shipping container used in delivering the Proposal.  Failure to provide any of the materials listed below may result in the disqualification of the Proposal.

Proposals should be double-sided, except for any maps or graphics.

Proposals must be submitted on or before 11 January 2008 at 4:00 PM.   A postmark will NOT be accepted for verification of date of submission, though Proposals will be accepted by regular mail and courier in advance of the submission date and time.  Proposals will NOT be accepted by fax machine.

Project proposals must include the following:

· A task-by-task description of each element in the project including means of accomplishment, measures of success, the projected budget on a task-by-task basis, and timeline indicating the anticipated initiation and completion of each task, and total requested funds from EEA.;
· A discussion of how the proposed tasks relate to – and how they will advance – the Commonwealth’s Sustainable Development Principles with particular emphasis on energy and environmental benefits (use of a Smart Growth/Smart Energy Toolkit technique preferred).
· A description of the relationship between the task for which funding is requested and implementation of the conservation or development project the funding will facilitate.
· Budget summary;
· Proposals should be organized by municipality.  For proposals from a single municipality proposing work for its own benefit, the Anticipated Scope of Work should outline each task as requested above.  For proposals from a Regional Planning Agency, tasks for individual municipalities should be clustered in separate municipal groupings.  (An example of the proposal format can be found in Attachment B.) Regional proposals must include a letter of endorsement from all participating communities;
· A letter committing to at least a 25 percent local match of the funds requested from EEA;
· A CD that contains the Anticipated Scope of Work and proposed project budget
· If proposed task is implementing a recommendation from a Community Development Plan,  Master Plan, Climate Action, or Watershed Action Plan please include a copy of that page from the plan; and
· Letters from supporting and collaborating organizations and individuals.

On or before January 14, 2008 communities must also submit a Commonwealth Capital application in order to receive the 30% of overall points reserved for this score.

If selected, the Respondent will be required to submit the following forms to complete a contract:

· Commonwealth Standard Contract Form, filled out and signed by the Respondent
· Commonwealth Scope and Budget Form (available from EEA)
· Commonwealth Terms and Conditions filled out and signed by the Respondent
· Commonwealth W-9 tax information form filled out and signed by the Respondent.
· Completed Contractor Authorized Signature Verification Form.
· A statement, on Respondent letterhead, attesting to the conditions in Item 24 of the EEA Supplemental Terms and Conditions (see Appendix A)
Respondents are encouraged to review these forms prior to submission of a Response.  They are available at the following website.

EVALUATION CRITERIA: Each Response will be scored using the following measures:

· Consistency of the response with the Commonwealth’s Sustainable Development Principles, with particular emphasis on energy and/or environmental benefits.
· The impact the task will have on improving smart growth/smart energy practices as determined by likelihood of implementation and magnitude of change if implemented.
· The Commonwealth Capital score: communities with higher scores will receive preference.
· Municipalities that have not previously received a Smart Growth Technical Assistance Grant will receive preference.
· Proposed activity(s) implements a Smart Growth/Smart Energy Toolkit technique
· Proposed activity(s) utilizes funding efficiently
· Proposed activity(s) is cited in the municipality’s Community Development, Master, Climate Action, or Watershed Action Plan.
· A minimum match of 25 percent of funds sought from the Commonwealth is required.  Match commitments above the 25 percent threshold will be viewed more favorably.
· Proposed scope of work is reasonable given the contract term (roughly 6 months).
· Community support, level of commitment, and extent of collaboration.

NOTE:  EEA reserves the option to interview some or all of those submitting a proposal for the purpose of clarifying a proposal prior to making a final award.

Project Terms: A final contract is subject to successful negotiation of a Final Scope of Services.  Please note that EEA does not guarantee that any contracts may result from this RFR or that any particular funding level will be awarded.  It is anticipated that projects could commence immediately upon EEA’s decision. The awarded contract will be reviewed during its course and, upon request by the Contractor, may be extended or otherwise amended at the sole discretion of EEA.   Any extension granted will not necessarily change, or increase, the monetary value of the contract.

The attached “Supplemental Terms and Conditions” are incorporated into this RFR by reference. 
Attachment A

Note: The principles are also available in an illustrated form at the following website.

Sustainable Development Principles

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts shall care for the built and natural environment by promoting sustainable development through integrated energy and environment, housing and economic development, transportation and other policies, programs, investments, and regulations.  The Commonwealth will encourage the coordination and cooperation of all agencies, invest public funds wisely in smart growth and equitable development, give priority to investments that will deliver good jobs and good wages, transit access, housing, and open space, in accordance with the following sustainable development principles.  Furthermore, the Commonwealth shall seek to advance these principles in partnership with regional and municipal governments, non-profit organizations, business, and other stakeholders.

1. Concentrate Development and Mix Uses
Support the revitalization of city and town centers and neighborhoods by promoting development that is compact, conserves land, protects historic resources, and integrates uses. Encourage remediation and reuse of existing sites, structures, and infrastructure rather than new construction in undeveloped areas. Create pedestrian friendly districts and neighborhoods that mix commercial, civic, cultural, educational, and recreational activities with open spaces and homes.

2. Advance Equity
Promote equitable sharing of the benefits and burdens of development.  Provide technical and strategic support for inclusive community planning and decision making to ensure social, economic, and environmental justice.  Ensure that the interests of future generations are not compromised by today’s decisions.

3. Make Efficient Decisions
Make regulatory and permitting processes for development clear, predictable, coordinated, and timely in accordance with smart growth and environmental stewardship.

4. Protect Land and Ecosystems
Protect and restore environmentally sensitive lands, natural resources, agricultural lands, critical habitats, wetlands and water resources, and cultural and historic landscapes.  Increase the quantity, quality and accessibility of open spaces and recreational opportunities.

5. Use Natural Resources Wisely
Construct and promote developments, buildings, and infrastructure that conserve natural resources by reducing waste and pollution through efficient use of land, energy, water, and materials.

6. Expand Housing Opportunities
Support the construction and rehabilitation of homes to meet the needs of people of all abilities, income levels, and household types.  Build homes near jobs, transit, and where services are available. Foster the development of housing, particularly multifamily and smaller single-family homes, in a way that is compatible with a community’s character and vision and with providing new housing choices for people of all means.

7.  Provide Transportation Choice
Maintain and expand transportation options that maximize mobility, reduce congestion, conserve fuel and improve air quality. Prioritize rail, bus, boat, rapid and surface transit, shared-vehicle and shared-ride services, bicycling, and walking. Invest strategically in existing and new passenger and freight transportation infrastructure that supports sound economic development consistent with smart growth objectives.

8. Increase Job and Business Opportunities
Attract businesses and jobs to locations near housing, infrastructure, and transportation options.  Promote economic development in industry clusters.  Expand access to education, training, and entrepreneurial opportunities.  Support the growth of local businesses, including sustainable natural resource-based businesses, such as agriculture, forestry, clean energy technology, and fisheries.

9. Promote Clean Energy
Maximize energy efficiency and renewable energy opportunities. Support energy conservation strategies, local clean power generation, distributed generation technologies, and innovative industries.  Reduce greenhouse gas emissions and consumption of fossil fuels.

10. Plan Regionally
Support the development and implementation of local and regional, state and interstate plans that have broad public support and are consistent with these principles.  Foster development projects, land and water conservation, transportation and housing that have a regional or multi-community benefit.  Consider the long-term costs and benefits to the Commonwealth.
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Eco-Economy Indicator — SOLAR ENERGY
December 27, 2007

Eco-Economy Indicators are twelve trends that the Earth Policy Institute tracks to measure progress in building an eco-economy. Using energy from the sun is a key component of the Plan B renewable energy economy.

SOLAR CELL PRODUCTION JUMPS 50 PERCENT IN 2007 Jonathan G. Dorn Production of photovoltaics (PV) jumped to 3,800 megawatts worldwide in 2007, up an estimated 50 percent over 2006. At the end of the year, according to preliminary data, cumulative global production stood at 12,400 megawatts, enough to power 2.4 million U.S. homes. Growing by an impressive average of 48 percent each year since 2002, PV production has been doubling every two years, making it the world’s fastest-growing energy source.
For more information on moving rapidly to renewable energy, see the brand new book by Lester Brown, Plan B 3.0: Mobilizing to Save Civilization.

Media Contact: Reah Janise Kauffman
Earth Policy Institute
1350 Connecticut Ave NW, Suite 403
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: (202) 496-9290 x 12
Fax: (202) 496-9325
E-mail: rjk (at) earthpolicy.org
Web: www.earthpolicy.org
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Well, it’s that time again!  Our first application deadline in 2008 for both the NEGEF small grants (New England wide) and Boston Grants Initiative programs is fast approaching.  Applications postmarked by January 15th will be considered for funds distributed in April.  This is a great chance for you to help us reconnect with previous grantees and reach out to new grantees!  Please let groups know about this upcoming deadline!

Application forms and final report forms are available on the NEGEF website, www.grassrootsfund.org. While you’re there, check out new and updated additions to the site as well: Upcoming Events, Frequently Asked Questions, and our 2007 Grassroots Retreat page complete with videos highlighting the Lake Winnipesaukee event.return to top

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