New York Commissioner wants loan scoring system to encourage energy efficiency and smart growth

Moves to revise scoring system

Vilas Bhuchar, Nov 19, 09.

Pete Grannis, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), has moved to change the scoring of community applications for low-interest loans from the EPA-led Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund (SRF) so that more money is spent on smart growth than suburban sprawl, according to a story on Smart Growth Online.

Mr. Grannis is quoted as saying, “The current scoring system has served us well for years and now needs to be updated to reflect our current policies of encouraging energy efficiency and smart growth principles.”

For instance, according to the article, a revised scoring system would favor money being spent on upgrades of aged city sewers rather than their extensions into the countryside. It notes that, “while current SRF scoring focuses on a range of public health and water quality factors, the new system will include points for smart growth and sound land use planning, timely sewer maintenance, and the use of leading-edge energy-efficiency technologies.”

Bruce Munn, Executive Director of New York Conference of Mayors, strongly supports the new system and is quoted in the story:

By adjusting the funding formula, and keeping pace with water quality needs, municipalities that have been diligent with capital improvement programs and sustainable water quality management practices will have a greater opportunity to be recognized financially. At the same time, the program will continue on its foundation to assist those communities that have compelling needs.

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