There is a new tool for us to achieve our targets for reductions in energy use and greenhouse gas emissions and at same time it can enable private property owners to improve their own carbon foot print.  Local Improvement Charge (LIC) regulation has been amended so that energy conservation enhancements in private homes can now be financed through the mechanism of a LIC.  Traditionally, LIC has been exclusive to such things as improvements in municipal services such as sidewalks and water supply.

Early in the year I wrote about King Township’s endorsement (via a resolution) to a request made to Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing to review the regulation on Local Improvement Charges to enable their use for energy conservation improvements in private properties, particularly in private single family residences.  As a reminder as to why this amendment is such a big idea read here.

This amendment is very strategic and offers long term benefit to both municipalities and home owners:  as value differentiation for green and energy efficient homes and buildings over conventional ones grows, the property tax base as well as homeowners’ property values will be protected.  In addition vulnerability to rising and volatile energy prices will be reduced.

Realizing the potential of this amendment will require development of a truly simple procedure for the homeowner and the municipality; we are off to a good start as the actual regulation itself is clear and understandable.  You can read it here. 

I  hope that King will actively engage in development of this procedure/protocol as I think we can bring a lot of value to such an exercise.  And, for sure, this program is entirely consistent with our Sustainability Plan.