Green building techniques include solar panels, water reclamation and optimum window orientation, as shown here at World Karate on Boerne Stage Road. File photo

On April 8, Boerne City Council received and discussed recommendations from LEED consultant Alison Rivenburgh concerning environmentally friendly design for the construction of new city buildings during a workshop on April 8.

LEED is the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design rating system that provides third-party certification to participating buildings that have achieved high levels of environmentally friendly design. A structure may achieve environmental standards through use of recycled materials, high-efficiency lighting and water reclamation. LEED certification levels include certified, silver, gold and platinum.

The council is considering employing green construction strategies for several new buildings. The new public safety building is already on the drawing board. Construction projects for a new library and an expansion of the fire station will also feature some energy-saving aspects.

Rivenburgh said that the cost of designing and constructing a LEED silver-level may cost 2 percent more than using conventional design and construction methods.

Police Chief Gary Miller said that commissioning and certifying the new public safety building will cost $100,000, and utilizing the materials and designs needed would cost an additional $200,000 to $300,000 of the proposed $7.7 million budget. Miller called the additional cost of the construction a “wise investment” as it is expected to pay for itself in energy savings after a few years.

The question the council faces is whether pursuing LEED certification for new city projects is economically worthwhile. The alternative would be to pursue green design to LEED standards but forgo the expenses associated with the certification process.

Councilman Bob Manning suggested that the city “put a stake in the ground” at silver standards in order to challenge the design team to strive for efficient design.

Councilman Rob Zeigler agreed, noting that it would be easier to back off from a higher standard if the budget does not allow it than to increase standards at a later date. He stressed the importance of creating accountability by committing to LEED silver standards.

Councilwoman Judy Edmondson echoed the need for accountability, saying that committing to certification would hold everyone’s feet to the fire to ensure efficient design.In the end, Mayor Dan Heckler told Miller to have design team shoot for LEED silver standards for the public safety building project and to revisit the prospects for certification later.