GREEN JOBS PRESS RELEASE FROM COUNCILMEMBER KWAME BROWN

COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA


Office of At-Large Councilmember Kwame R. Brown
Chair, Committee on Economic Development
Chair, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments

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PRESS RELEASE, 2/18/10

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: For More Information Contact: Michael Price,Cell: (202) 445-4510

Greener Policies = Greener Jobs

Council passes the Energy Efficiency Financing Act with job training component

WASHINGTON – This week, the Council unanimously passed the “Energy Efficiency Financing Act of 2010,” authored by Ward 3 Councilmember Mary Cheh. The legislation creates a loan program that helps property owners finance energy efficient improvements. Passed with the legislation was a friendly amendment offered by At-Large Councilmember Kwame R. Brown that creates a green job Workforce Development and Employment Plan.

“There are enormous opportunities for new industry growth in the green economy,” said Councilmember Brown . “Every investment we make into building a greener city should lead to greener, more sustainable jobs for District residents. This is a win-win for the environment and the economy.”

The legislation creates the National Capital Energy Fund with authorization to issue up to $250 million in revenue bonds to finance low-interest loans called Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) loans. District property owners can apply for loans to insulate their property, install storm windows, add automated energy control systems, replace light fixtures amongst other improvements. Residential and commercial buildings are eligible for the loans.

Councilmember Brown ’s amendment enhanced the legislation by establishing a Workforce Development and Employment Plan. It also provides accountability by establishing a quality assurance program to monitor how the funds are used. The plan incorporates first source hiring requirements and provides that individuals enrolled in qualified apprenticeship programs be placed with opportunities for employment. The amendment was accepted as friendly by Councilmember Cheh and supported by the Washington Interfaith Network and the Sierra Club of Washington, DC.

For more information or to interview Councilmember Brown , please contact Press Secretary Michael Price at 202-445-4510 or mprice@dccouncil.us