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Green Communities (Needham) - Town Meeting will be asked to adopt the "Stretch Code" on November 7, so that Needham can join the 95 other designated Green Communities that have already voted to support higher quality, more energy efficient homes that save owners money. Eleanor Rosellini's describes the stretch code in the Needham Times. If you are interested in helping the true grassroots and important efforts on stretch code adoption, please contact me, Michael Greis, Susan McGarvey or Debbie Schmill. This is an extraordinary opportunity to make real and meaningful changes, and many members of our community have been working hard on this. There's little time left to make sure this passes, please get involved!
BACKGROUND:
The alternative building code [Stretch Code], which puts more stringent environmental requirements on new construction and renovations, is a main requirement for municipalities wanting to join the state’s “Green Communities” program. The program awards grants to support energy-conservation efforts by member communties.
While Needham already meets most of the program’s requirements, adoption of the Stretch Code is proving contentious, as some developers fear that it would add costs to home construction and complicate inspections by the town. Others, including a committee led by Selectman Jerry Wasserman, say that while the Stretch Code may add 2 to 4 percent to initial building costs, savings in energy consumption over the life of a building more than recoup the expense. [Boston Globe/YourTown, 1o/3/2011]
The Board of Selectmen voted to recommend at Town Meeting the adoption of the Stretch Code. (10/11/2011)
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