Commissioners Court - Regular Session

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AIR-2641

15.

Meeting Date:	04/28/2009
Submitted For:	Commissioner Ron Morrison
Submitted By:	Grimes Kathy, Commissioner Pct. #2
Department:	Commissioner Pct. #2

Agenda Item

Hear presentation on use of propane for energy efficiency and Clean Air and take appropriate action if desired for application for Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program (EECBG) and other related energy grants.

Background

As part of the federal government stimulus package, $209 million has been allocated to Texas cities, counties and Indian tribes to promote energy efficiency and conservation. The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program (EECBG) provides grants to U.S. local governments, states, territories, and Indian tribes, to fund projects that reduce energy use and fossil fuel emissions, and that improve in energy efficiency. Williamson County was allocated $611,600 through program formulas that used population data from the 2007 U.S. Census. The purpose of the Program is to assist eligible entities in 1. Implementing strategies to reduce fossil fuel emissions in a manner that is environmentally sustainable and maximizes benefits for local and regional communities; 2. Reduces the total energy use of the eligible entities; and 3. Improves energy efficiency in the transportation sector, building sector, or other appropriate sectors. Deadline for grant applications are June 25, 2009 at 5:00 PM.

Other grants available are the U.S. Department of Energy/Clean Cities FY09 Petroleum Reduction Technologies Projects for the Transportation Sector. The 4-year grant awards will range from $5 to $15 million. The City of Austin/Central Texas Clean Cities are coordinating competitive grant applications on behalf of the region for clean vehicle funding opportunities available; if interested in participating a letter of intent is due on May 1, 2009.

Also available to Williamson County are grants through the Texas Railroad Commission for purchase of alternative fuel source vehicles.

Fiscal Impact

From/To	Acct No.	Description	Amount

Attachments
Tax Savings Update
Tax Savings
Green House Gas Report

DOE Grant
City of Austin LOI
School Bus Examples
Propane Presentation
DOE Grant
City of Austin LOI

Form Review

Inbox	Reviewed By	Date
County Judge Exec Asst.	Wendy Coco	04/23/2009 08:26 AM
Form Started By: Pierce Kathy		Started On: 04/22/2009 08:47 AM
Final Approval Date: 04/23/2009