HomeMy WebLinkAboutRES.2504.12-21-2009BILL NO. 09-202
A RESOLUTION OF THE
OF CAPE GIRARDEAU,
CONFIRMING SUPPORT
PLAN
RESOLUTION NO.
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
MISSOURI, EXPRESSING AND
FOR THE CLEAN AIR ACTION
WHEREAS, clean air is vital to the preservation of life and
essential to maintaining a good quality of life;
WHEREAS, the Southeast Missouri Regional Planning
Commission has adopted a Clean Air Action Plan; and
WHEREAS, the City of Cape Girardeau has long been a member
of and participant in the Southeast Missouri Regional Planning
Commission.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED as follows:
Article 1. The City Council of the City of Cape Girardeau
hereby adopts this Resolution of Support for the Clean Air
Action Plan.
Article 2. The City Council of the City of Cape Girardeau
hereby recommends to each of the other elected officials in the
City of Cape Girardeau to undertake such a review.
PASSED AND ADOPTED THIS (�;-2/-:-- DAY OF k C'I7k-", 20 6 /
a Knudtson, Mayor
Southeast Missouri
Clean Hip fiction Plan
October, 2009
TITLE: Clean Air Action Plan for Southeast Missouri
AUTHOR: David P. Grimes, Deputy Director, Principle
Author
Chauncy D. Buchheit, Executive Director
DATE: October, 2009
PLANNING AGENCY: Southeast Missouri Regional Planning and
Economic Development Commission
1 West St. Joseph Street
P.O. Box 366
Perryville, Missouri 63775
www.semorgc.org
NUMBER OF PAGES: 44
ABSTRACT:
The Clean Air Action Plan for Southeast Missouri presents historical perspective and
voluntary and proactive measures that can be taken to address air quality issues. This
effort was initiated when monitors located in the area were found to be out of
compliance with new standards for ground -level ozone. The plan presented in the
following pages presents a range of actions that can be taken by citizens, businesses
and governments to ensure that the air quality in southeast Missouri remains
excellent.
Southeast (vLissouri dean r A_ction Plan Page
Table of Contents
Introduction............................................................................................................................ 1
Urban/Rural Considerations................................................................................................ 3
OzonePrimer.......................................................................................................................... 5
Goalsand Objectives............................................................................................................. 7
Goal1......................................................................................................................... 7
Goal2......................................................................................................................... 7
Objective 1: Promote Voluntary Measures ............................................. 7
Objective 2: Promote Local Government Measures .............................7
Objective 3: Promote Private Sector Measures ...................................... 7
VoluntaryMeasures................................................................................................................8
Education/ Outreach................................................................................................ 8
Specific Education Projects....................................................................... 8
Education Approaches.............................................................................11
Government Policies/Programs/Ordinances....................................................12
Policies........................................................................................................12
Programs.....................................................................................................15
Ordinances.................................................................................................17
Private Sector Policies/Programs.........................................................................19
Policies........................................................................................................19
Programs.....................................................................................................19
RegionalPrograms..................................................................................................20
Ozone Action Day Alerts.........................................................................20
SpeakersBureau.........................................................................................20
Diesel Emissions Reduction Act Program............................................20
Timelines for Implementation............................................................................................21
Winter 2009-10, Spring/Summer 2010:
Education/ Outreach Initiation...............................................................21
Winter 2009-10:
Presentations for Formal Adoption to County Commissions ............ 21
Winter 2009-10, Remainder of 2010:
Presentations for Formal Adoption To Municipalities ........................21
2010 and Ongoing:
Obtain Support and Agreement from Private Industry ......................21
Amendment...........................................................................................................................22
Glossaryof Terms................................................................................................................23
Southeast NLssouri Clean fair ,_ction Plan Page ii
Appendix 1: Sample Public Service Announcement Scripts..........................................25
Appendix 2: Sample Press Releases................................................................................... 27
Appendix 3: Model Fleet Purchase Evaluation Policy....................................................30
Appendix 4: "E -Government" Policy...............................................................................33
Appendix 5: Sample Speed Limit Enforcement Policy...................................................36
Appendix 6: Sample Recycling Policy................................................................................38
Appendix 7: Draft Energy Efficiency in Government Facilities Program...................40
Appendix 8: Gas Can Exchange Program Guidelines.................................................... 42
Southeast Missouri CIXn Ai A ; Plan Page iii
Introduction
The impetus for the preparation of this Clean Air Action Plan (CRAP) was
the promulgation, by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), of new 8 -
hour ozone standards in March, 2008. Under the new standards both of the
monitors located within the southeast Missouri region appeared to be out of
compliance based on available data. This brought home the idea that air quality was
no longer solely an "urban issue."
The Southeast Missouri Regional Planning Commission (RPC) has been
involved in environmental issues for decades. This has included water and
wastewater planning, solid waste planning, and a variety of projects to prepare
applications for grant funding in support of environmental issues. The most recent
involvement by the RPC in air quality issues stems from the beginning of the process
employed by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MoDNR) in
formulating recommendations regarding counties to be designated as nonattainment
areas under the new 8 -hour ozone standards. In April, 2008, MoDNR announced
the process that would be followed in developing those recommendations. Staff
from the RPC, along with interested private sector citizens and local elected officials,
attended every meeting held by the MoDNR during this process. Indeed, two of the
meetings pertaining to the proposed Southeast Missouri Nonattainment Area were
hosted by the RPC.
The MoDNR process was completed in January, 2009 when the Missouri Air
Conservation Commission (IviACC) voted to adopt the staff recommendations
presented by MoDNR. Under these recommendations, only two counties within the
seven -county RPC service area were included as nonattainment areas. Both Perry
and Ste. Genevieve Counties, each with an ozone monitor that initially appeared to
have a three-year rolling average reading showing noncompliance, were
recommended for designation as nonattainment areas with the recommendation
further placing each of these counties in "stand-alone" nonattainment areas.
Following involvement in the nonattainment area designation process, the
stakeholders involved, in cooperation with the RPC Board of Directors, decided to
move forward and address air quality issues on a local level. In part this decision
reflected the new awareness that air quality issues were no longer strictly urban
concerns. In addition, the decision is an effort to implement a voluntary and
proactive approach to rural air quality matters rather than simply to wait to react to
decisions made in remote urban areas.
Under the Clean Air Act, there are six "criteria pollutants." The theory is,
quite simply, that if these pollutants can be kept at acceptable levels, the air quality is
also acceptable. These pollutants include:
1. Particulate matter;
2. Ground level ozone;
3. Carbon monoxide;
Southeast MLssouri Clean A,�ir f_ction Plan Pagel
4. Sulfur oxides;
5. Nitrogen oxides; and,
6. Lead
While the particular focus of this CARP will be to address ozone and its
associated precursors, all criteria pollutants are addressed in the CAAP to some
degree. At bottom, although the pollutants are measured separately, emission sources
at all levels frequently emit more than one criteria pollutant. Major point sources are
already controlled through the permitting process, which process addresses all
pollutants.
Southeast -ssouri CIAir {fiction Plan Page
Urban/Rural Considerations
The seven -county southeast Missouri region is very rural in nature. By way of
example, the City of Cape Girardeau had a 2000 population of 35,349 and as of 2008
estimates had only grown to 37,370. The nearby City of Jackson had a 2000
-- population of 11,947 and as of 2008 estimates
had grown to merely 13,744. No other
community in the region approaches the size
of Cape Girardeau. In the next most populous
county, St. Francois, the largest cities of
Farmington (2008 population estimate 16,097)
'w and Park Hills (2008 population estimate
8,851) only sum to approximately 25,000
persons. All other areas have a much smaller
population.
This rural nature has two extremely important implications for air quality
planning. First, in the realm of regulations, many of the approaches that have been
effective in reducing pollution in
N
urban areas are simply irrelevant in I
rural areas. The current regulatory sa:�
approach has been developed to
address issues where populations
are concentrated. A fuel vapor
recovery system requirement makes
sense in St. Louis or Kansas City
where hundreds of service stations
serve hundreds of thousands of
automobiles through thousands of
nozzles. In a county with ten
stations and under 100 nozzles,
such a system would simply be an
economic burden with essentially zero chance of having a measurable impact on air
quality.
Beside these questions of effectiveness, there is a political component to the
rural nature of the region. Rural areas have a history of working with other rural
areas to address mutual problems. Because of the diversity of problems between
rural and urban areas, this history of cooperation does not exist with the rural
southeast Missouri region and the urban St. Louis metropolitan area.
An early draft of the MoDNR recommended nonattainment area
designations would have had St. Francois and Ste. Genevieve Counties included in
an expanded St. Louis Nonattainment Area. The view of local officials was that this
designation would have meant that the concerns of the rural counties would simply
have been overwhelmed by the needs of the urban areas. This is not an "us against
them" position. Rather, it reflects the reality that when scarce resources are
Southeast Njissouri Clean ,fir ion Play Page
apportioned, the rational approach is to put those resources where they can do the
most benefit. The small rural populations simply do not generate the numbers to
compete with more urban areas.
The balance of this CRAP, then, will address things that can be done by rural
areas and which can reasonably be expected to have a positive air quality impact. The
recommendations and programs that follow are a mix of: voluntary actions;
programs involving government funding or subsidies; and, a few direct government
programs or projects. For rural areas this mix of approaches, designed to involve
citizens along with government and business in a shared effort, provides the greatest
likelihood and the goal of cleaner air will be achieved.
So$east NLssouri Clean rction P1 i Page
Ozone Primer
One of the most important of the criteria pollutants is Ozone. Ozone is the
primary component of
0.9% 0.4'% 0.1%
- --o.o°io
visible "smog"
..
o.s°�°
3.2%
Southeast Missouri Region
g
associated with the
3.5% I
0.0%1
VOC b Source
Y
"brown air days" that
{
\
UHighwayVehicles
were once common in
e off-Highwayvehicles
larger cities. It is
8.7%
_ _ _
130.0%
JSolventUtilization
important to understand
i
LaFuelCombustion-Other
that ozone is not, as a
Lj Storage and Transport
rule, directly produced.
10.7% a
i
Li Waste Disposal and Recycling
uOther
Rather, a combination
,
LA Fuel Combustion - Industrial
of Volatile Organic
_j Chemical and Allied Products Mfg-
Compounds (VOCs)
U Miscellaneous Sources
and Nitrogen Oxides
14.4%
A Petroleum and Related Industries
/��
(NOx) combine in a
o
27.3 /°
-1FuelCombustion-ElectricUtilities
_j Metals Processing
warm environment in
the presence of sunlight
to form Ozone. The
VOC and NOx
components are known
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
"precursors."
as ozone
Many of the programs
and projects discussed below are designed to eliminate or
reduce these precursors.
The source of these ozone precursors in many ways
drove the development
of this plan. The
0.5%f--""0.1%° 1� 0.0% 0.0 o 0 0%
Environmental
° l
2.1/° u.1°�° 0.0%
Southeast Missouri Region
Protection Agency
3.s°/
NOx by Source
estimates that in general,
g '
about half of precursors
MHighwayVehicles
come from motor
9.7%
(
- --
a Off -Highway Vehicles
vehicles. Specifically, the
8%
J Other Industrial Processes
estimate is that 56% of
Fuel Combustion - Industrial
J Storage and Transport
NOx and 45% of VOCs
4f
JFuelCombustion - Other
come from these sources
L, Waste Disposal and Recycling
on a national level. As
1 ° -
t+FuelCombustion- ElectricUtilities
shown In the
28.8%
-i Miscellaneous Sources
u Petroleum Related Industries
accompanying charts,
and
jMetals Processing
this national average
23 9%
-j Chemical and Allied Productivlfg.
information is closely
Solvent Utilization
approximated locally.
Within the seven -county
region 54.7% of VOCs
and 44.4% of NOx
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
comes from these
Southeast K]ssouri Clean Aj�r ,_ction Plan_:, S
sources. Since these are such significant sources, it quickly became clear that efforts
to reduce mobile source emissions would, of necessity, be a central feature to most
programs proposed.
Health officials
have concluded that Ground Level Ozone Formation
ground level ozone in Sunlight + NOx VO --S - 0
relatively small
quantities, measured in _
terms of parts per
billion of the
i,
atmosphere, can cause' '
health problems. Most-�
commonly, irritation to
eyes and lungs results
in watery, burning eyes
and a scratchy throat.
In extreme cases lung Source: Centralina Council of Governments
problems can develop
into much more serious bronchitis or trigger asthma attacks in individuals susceptible
to that condition. Atmospheric ozone, however, is considered "good ozone." In the
stratosphere, ozone provides a shield from the sun's ultraviolet radiation. The
common way to remember this is in the phrase "Ozone — Good High, Bad Low."
east NLssouri Clean fir {fiction Plan ( Page
S 0 U M
Goal and Ob ectives
Any action plan contains statements of purpose(s), usually in terms of
"goals" and "objectives." Goals are broad generalized statements defining the overall
outcome desired. Objectives are more specific, action -oriented, shorter range
proposals with more precise aims. A critical aspect of both goals and objectives is
that they be both realistic and attainable. For purposes of this CRAP, two goals and
three objectives represent the outcomes to be achieved.
6708) I.'
The primary goal of the Southeast Missouri Regional Planning Commission's
Clean Air Action Plan is to promote programs, projects and policies to ensure that
the region's air quality remains excellent.
608/2. -
The secondary goal of the Southeast Missouri Regional Planning
Commission's Clean Air Action Plan is to promote such programs as will help
ensure that none of the Commission's member counties are designated as
nonattainment areas by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency under the
auspices of the Clean Air Act. Should one or more counties be so designated, the
CAAP will promote such programs, projects and policies as are necessary to reduce
air pollution in the briefest time possible so as to allow petition to have such
counties re -designated as "attainment."
000ye 7. Promote VolunkT Messes
This Objective includes education/outreach and direct programs and
projects designed to engage citizens in efforts to help improve air quality. As noted
in the following sections, these are largely behavior changes and involve no -cost, or
in some cases very low -costs to the citizens.
ObOctive 2.• Promote Local GovernmentMeasurvs
This Objective includes programs, projects and policies that can be
undertaken by local governments. These are, as with the voluntary measures above,
largely a matter of changing policies and procedures and, in some cases, supporting
specific projects or programs. These efforts are generally low- or no -cost.
ObectNe 3.• Prete Private Sectcr Measures
This Objective includes programs, projects and policies that can be
undertaken by private sector businesses. Since local governments lack authority to
directly regulate private sector businesses in most cases, these will be voluntary
efforts on the part of business. Often these are no- or low-cost efforts. Since not
being designated as a nonattainment area works to businesses advantage by avoiding
additional regulation associated with such a designation, this is a case where private
sector business decisions coincide with public needs.
SouClcan f�i
Voluntary Measures
Since regulation of significant point sources is outside of the authority of
local governments, the focus necessarily shifts to more general area sources and
mobile sources. Area sources are those smaller, more generalized sources of air
pollutants exemplified by gasoline service stations, for example. Mobile sources, as
the name suggests, are primarily vehicles including passenger vehicles and trucks as
well as off-road vehicles. Mobile equipment such as construction equipment,
mining/forestry equipment and temporary generators are also considered mobile
sources. Voluntary measures can be undertaken by individuals, local governments,
businesses, or other groups or organizations. A wide range of such measures have
the potential of making an impact on air pollution even though each individual
activity may seem insignificant.
fduc8bon/0ubT8ch
Education efforts should not be limited to the schools. While it is important
to reach youngsters during their formative years so that they can develop good habits
early, an education/outreach effort toward adults will also be a key component of
the overall program. The project to promote student -produced video spots
mentioned below under "Education Approaches" obviously involves students along
with adults. Public Service Announcements, press releases, use of local access cable
stations and a speakers bureau will promote education and outreach in support of
this CARP.
1. "Stop at the click." This project is designed to promote the habit of filling
vehicle fuel tanks "to the click." In other words, not adding additional fuel after the
automatic cutoff on the fuel nozzle has A
turned off the flow of fuel. "Topping
off' the tank presents several problems.
Most obviously, one "click" too many
can result in a direct fuel spill. Before
that, though, internal venting will have
been blocked by the extra fuel, making f
the vapor recovery system less efficient.
On older systems with activated
charcoal canister systems, the filter
media can be contaminated. By simply
taking the "stop at the click" approach,
all of these problems can be avoided. iL
2. "Fuel at night." Closely
related to "stop at the click," fueling at night helps avoid ozone formation. VOCs are
released during any fueling operation in some small amounts. In the event of a fuels
spill, even more VOCs are released. If fueling is done at night, the VOCs thus
South at - ouri Clean Aj_r A_`• ,'on MFon Page _M
released have sufficient time to disperse before they can combine with NOx in the
heat and sunlight of the day.
3. "Yard work in the afternoon or evening." This project is designed to instill
a habit of taking care of yard work using gasoline powered equipment later in the
afternoon or in the evening. The afternoon spent "cutting the lawn" is an American
tradition. Small engines such as are found on outdoor power equipment lack
sophisticated fuel injection systems and computer controls, as well as catalytic
converters. The ozone precursor output of these engines is far higher than
automobiles or trucks which have those sophisticated fuel management systems.
Since NOx, combining with VOCs in the presence of heat and sunlight are a primary
source of ground -level ozone, waiting until late in the day to use this equipment
removes the heat and sunshine from the equation and helps decrease ozone levels.
4. Battery power for owners of small lots. Several companies now offer
battery powered outdoor power equipment that could well replace gasoline powered
weed trimmers, hedge trimmers,
An blowers and the like. Im rovements
in battery pack technology have
1 addressed many of the issues of short
I
it€( Aid
i run time associated with battery
1' < + �i � powered equipment in the past. The
ull
policy of several manufacturers of
offering a variety of equipment
utilizing the same battery pack means
�•�': ` is that as the tool selection grows, the
supply of batteries and chargers also
grows. A workshop with, for
example, an 18 volt drill, circular saw,
reciprocating saw, string trimmer and blower would have at least five batteries and
chargers, meaning that the equipment could be run effectively indefinitely with only
the briefest stops to change batteries. While gasoline powered equipment will still be
the logical choice for bigger lots with longer distances involved in getting back to the
chargers, battery powered equipment could well be a very serviceable choice for
persons with smaller lots.
5. Electric Lawn Mowers. Although battery powered lawn mowers are
generally still in the future, the electric power option is viable for smaller lots. The
need for extension cords limits the use of electric lawn mowers to relatively small
lots, but where they can be used they offer a clean alternative to traditional gasoline
powered mowers.
6. Carpool/Trip Planning. Education and outreach to promote carpooling or
at least trip planning has the obvious goal of reducing vehicle miles traveled.
Carpooling keeps one automobile off of the road for every participant, and its
impact is obvious. Less obvious, and more suitable for an educational/outreach
program, is the idea of trip planning. Simply planning trips to combine all "chores"
Southeast MJssouri Clean Fair /fiction Plan Page9
in one planned trip can save vehicle miles. Often those are "in -town" miles which
are the most fuel inefficient and most polluting trips.
CLEAN AIR ZONE
DO NOT IDLE
TURN OFF VEHICLE
WHILE WAITING
7. Idle reduction. Extended
idling is an air polluter and fuel
waster. Even idling as little as 30
seconds is more wasteful than
turning off and restarting an
automobile. One of the most
obvious locations for extended idling
is around school as parents wait for
their students. An
education/outreach program
targeted to persuade drivers to turn
off their engines rather than idling for extended periods could achieve changes in
these habits. Simple signage indicating "No Idle Zones" would augment this
program. This is a particularly important source since automobile air emissions are a
primary source of VOCs in rural areas.
8. Use "chimneys" or electric starters rather than charcoal starter. This might
seem like a trivial item but the half cup of
charcoal starter multiplied by a thousand uses
quickly adds up to a significant emission.
Besides that, those who have made the switch
away from charcoal starter fluid say that flavor
of prepared foods is improved.
9. Replace worn out or leaking fuel
cans. With improvements automobile and
truck vapor recovery systems, as well as more
efficient
fuel
delivery cutoffs and vapor recovery systems
being utilized at gasoline filling stations,
fueling an automobile or truck has become a
relatively clean operation. Combined with
stop -at -the -click habits, emissions from fueling
approach zero. Although counter intuitive, the
"standard" one- or two -gallon gasoline can
being used to fuel a lawn mower, lawn tractor,
string trimmer, chain saw, blower or other
outdoor power equipment can easily result in
more emissions than filling an automobile or
truck gas tank. Many older gas cans lack any
cutoff feature resulting in fuel spills. Loose or
leaking caps can cause a steady vapor loss.
Small gasoline cans labeled "CARB
Compliant" meet standards for the California
Southeast NLssouri Clean fir f_cWon Plan Page 10
I
Air Resources Board and have both anti -spill and anti -vapor release features.
10. Bicycle for short trips. Bicycling has benefits for the air and for health. As
a relatively low -impact exercise, bicycling is generally regarded as one of the most
benign exercise regimens available. In addition, in terms of air quality, it is a zero
pollution alternative to other transportation modes.
11. Energy conservation efforts. Any energy conservation efforts indirectly
help reduce air pollution since the need for large scale Electric Generating Utilities,
the main source of many air pollutants, is reduced through these efforts. The entire
range of energy conservation is included within this general category. Residential
energy audits can be performed and typically can result in a reduction or 10% or
more in energy usage for any household. Government is already involved in such
efforts through tax incentives for Energy Star TM compliant appliances and similar
programs. The government requirement to replace incandescent light bulbs with
compact fluorescent bulbs is another example. Citizen awareness is a key to a truly
significant energy conservation effort.
Fa "tb? Hporrx�cf�s
Several approaches lend themselves to the education/outreach program
recommended here. A combination of these will be necessary to raise awareness of
the issues of air quality. As with advertising, repetition is the key, and addressing the
issue through several venues and approaches over a period of time will enhance the
prospects for successfully making an impact on this important issue.
1. Public Service Announcements. A series of Public Service Announcements
(PSAs) carried on radio and television will be used to promote two things. First, the
general awareness of air quality issues as something that is no longer just an urban
problem. Second, PSAs in support of specific voluntary measures such as the "Stop
at the click program" will promote those efforts. Samples of draft PSAs are included
as Appendix 1.
2. Press Releases. A series of Press Releases accomplish virtually the same
things. "Background" Press Releases will help promote the general awareness.
"Program" Press Releases will help promote specific efforts. Samples of draft press
releases are included as Appendix 2.
3. Locally produced "spots." Many local high schools, and vocational
schools, as well as Southeast Missouri State University, Mineral Area College and the
Cape Girardeau Career and Technology Center, have production facilities and classes
in video production. These classes will be encouraged to produce "spots" in support
of these programs. Local air play through Local Access Cable Television or captive
broadcast facilities held by Southeast Missouri State University and Mineral Area
College will help spread the word. The "local color" of these spots will promote
more local interest.
Southeast 1vLssou i s " Pyr fiction Plan Page11Y�
4. Screen "crawls." The "crawls" across the bottom of the screen on local
access channels and, possibly, commercial stations would provide yet more exposure
for these important issues. Regular contact through an email "tree" and press
releases will encourage the use of this device.
5. Speakers Bureau. Using SEMO RPC staff or volunteers, a "speakers
bureau" of persons knowledgeable about air quality issues and the various programs
to address the problem will be developed. These speakers would be available to
schools as "guest teachers," community service organizations as "program speakers,"
local governments and any other interested groups.
6. Web Sites. Many organizations, educational institutions, local
governments, and private sector businesses maintain internet web sites. The
inclusion of links to sites identifying and promoting voluntary measures, or even
including such a section in those web sites, will be a valuable addition to the
education/outreach "toolbox."
Government Policies/Programs/Ordnances
Direct regulation of air pollutants is largely beyond the scope of local
governments. Electric Generating Utilities (EGUs), the largest point source emitters,
are specifically governed by Federal and State regulations. The whole range of other
regulatory responses to air quality issues, including regulations on automobile body
shops, dry cleaners, gasoline service stations, and so on are regulated through the
State of Missouri permitting process which, in turn, is governed by a State
Implementation Plan (SIP) approved by EPA. There are, however, policy, program,
and direct ordinance actions that can be taken.
Each of the recommended policies and programs require formal action on
the part of the local government. In order to promote participation and acceptance,
the CAAP includes draft resolutions, letters, policy statements and program outlines.
All of the well meaning programs and projects will have no impact if they are not
adopted and implemented. In order to be effective a variety of implementation
strategies will need to be followed. These are also identified and detailed below.
Policy 1: Fleet "Right Sizing." Local governments run relatively large fleets.
These fleets typically include a mix of passenger automobiles and trucks. Some
special purpose vehicles such as fire trucks or police cars would logically be excluded
from any "right sizing" policy. A reasonable policy, though, would include a formal
position taken by local governments that as each vehicle is scheduled for
replacement through the normal cycle an evaluation of its replacement would include
consideration of fuel efficiency. The heavy duty, 3/4 ton crew cab dual wheel pickup
with its large V-8 engine, for example, that serves primarily as the transportation
vehicle for the head of the street department might be replaced by a '/z ton pickup
with a V-6.
Southeast,> uri Cleann A_ction
Implementation Plan: A fleet "rightsizing" effort is primarily a matter of
establishing the relevant policy. Any capital purchases such as new vehicles would
normally be subjected to the budget process. The model "Fleet Purchase Evaluation
Policy" included as Appendix 3 provides a formal framework for these budget
requests to be evaluated. Ideally the department head of the various departments
submitting the request would do a formal evaluation based on this policy. With the
rationale identified and explained through this relatively formal process, the final
"yes/no" decision will be reasonably straightforward.
Obviously, the applicability of this policy will vary with the size of the local
government. A county with a road and bridge fleet of 50 vehicles, for example, will
have more opportunities to precisely target and assign vehicles than a smaller system
with a fleet of only 20 vehicles. In the smaller fleet it is almost certain that more
multiple uses for any single vehicle will likely be required. The goal of this policy
would be to achieve what efficiencies can be achieved rather than mandating specific
actions. It is a central assumption in this CAAP approach that local governments
understand their needs best and will use common sense in approaching solutions
that meet the "common sense test."
Policy 2: Fleet Alternate Fuels. Similarly, local governments could adopt a
policy of promoting and adopting the use of alternate fuels as the fleet turns over.
Compressed Natural Gas vehicles, for example, offer dramatically improved
emission characteristics. This fuel would require some specialized fueling equipment
with attendant additional costs, but availability of grant funding to address these
start-up costs could make this approach feasible. A policy that new vehicles be "flex
fuel -capable," and able to accept the 85% ethanol that is becoming available would
have positive impacts. A policy requiring "hybrid" vehicles where personal
transportation is the primary function of the vehicle would also have a positive
impact.
Implementation Plan: As with "rightsizing," an effort to utilize alternate
fuel vehicles is primarily a matter of establishing the relevant policy. An evaluation
including alternate fuel capability is understood to potentially be in conflict with the
desire of local governments to hold down costs through the use of the most fuel
efficient vehicles available. Use of "flex fuel," for example, with 85% ethanol
representing significantly lower BTUs (British Thermal Units - the common measure
of heat energy available) per gallon will have a correspondingly reduced fuel mileage.
The cost of reduced air pollutants must, then, be factored into the purchase decision.
By adopting the model "Fleet Purchase Evaluation Policy" included as Appendix 3,
local governments agree to include alternate fuels in the evaluation process.
Policy 3: "E -Government." Simply put, every person who must visit City
Hall or the County Courthouse has made a trip to get there, and the vast majority of
those trips are by private automobile. The implementation of a policy of "E -
Government" could cut down significantly on those trips. Simply posting forms on a
local government internet web site and providing for accepting those forms
electronically would be a reasonably low cost approach. Such things as building
Southeast Iv issouri Cleanf�i' `r�"'4 Page'W
permit forms lend themselves to this approach. Other "E -Government" ideas will
certainly develop as government staff become more familiar and comfortable with
the concept and begin using it on a regular basis.
Implementation Plan: The concept of "E -Government" addresses a range
of issues ranging from online zoning maps to operating a "paperless" office. For
purposes of addressing air pollution issues, the goal would be to reduce the number
of trips citizens need to make to City Hall or the County Courthouse to transact
normal business. The possible areas for electronic transactions are diverse. A partial
listing, by way of example, could include:
a. Posting Zoning Maps and regulations;
b. Making/tracking complaints;
c. Posting permit and license applications;
d. Posting and accepting proposals and bids; and,
e. Requesting/receiving public information.
In some cases, this would be simply a matter of convenience to citizens as
matters historically handled via the U.S. Mail are made available on an internet web
site or link. Payment of taxes or traffic fines, for example, is often done through the
mail already. Technically savvy citizens could well prefer paying electronically via the
internet. This would be a very low-cost to no -cost policy to implement.
Unfortunately, in terms of the CARP, the impact of this program would be
essentially unquantifiable. A model "Electronic Government Initiative Policy" is
included as Appendix 4.
Policy 4: Careful Enforcement of Speed Limits. As a rule, fuel mileage
increases and emissions decrease as speeds are reduced. The simple expedient of
carefully enforcing speed limits, thereby bringing average speeds down, will help
reduce emissions put into the air.
Implementation Strategy: This policy has the benefit of being completely
"no cost." It is based on the understanding that as vehicles are driven slower they are
more fuel efficient and less polluting. Moreover, this is a safety issue. The CRAP
assumption is that careful attention was given prior to speed limits being established,
and that public safety was the primary concern in establishing them. Careful
enforcement, then, addresses air quality and public safety issues at no cost and
should be implemented whether or not air quality issues are being considered. It is
important that a policy be written in such a manner as to allow the officer on the
scene to evaluate the specific situation and react accordingly. A model "Speed Limit
Enforcement Policy" is included as Appendix 5.
Policy 5: Promotion and Support for Recycling. Recycling has a variety of
benefits, including benefits to air quality. Local governments can provide support
directly through funding and participating in recycling efforts. Reduction in materials
going into landfills will have some small impact on the production of methane and
other byproducts of decomposition. In addition, recycling and reuse will remove
Southeast NLssouri Clean A�ir Action PI
potential fuel from open trash incineration as is, unfortunately, still not uncommon
in rural areas.
Implementation Strategy: The implementation of this policy involves both
direct and indirect components. Directly, local governments can simply make it
policy to separate and recycle materials that are recyclable. Obviously aluminum and
plastic drink containers and paper are candidates for recycling. Indirectly, local
government can participate in the Southeast Missouri Solid Waste Management
District which has as its primary focus the promotion of recycling efforts. In
addition, local governments can support local recycling groups as they are formed. A
draft "Recycling Policy" is included as Appendix 6.
Pro�^ems
Program 1: Energy Auditing and Efficiency Programs. Local governments
operate a variety of buildings. From City Hall or the County Courthouse to the street
department garage, all of these buildings require heat, light, and in most cases, air
conditioning. The implementation of an energy auditing program would be likely to
identify a minimum of 10% potential savings. By way of example, replacement of
older fluorescent light fixtures with modern, high efficiency fixtures can achieve this
level of savings for the lighting budget. Making an additional capital investment and
replacing those fixtures with Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) could easily result in a
savings of 50% on lighting costs.
Implementation Strategy: Implementation of an energy auditing and
efficiency program is a two stage process. First, an energy audit is undertaken for
each public building. Second, the recommendations of the energy audit are
implemented. Typically, unless a building has already undergone this process,
potential energy savings of at least 10%, and as much as 50% can be identified.
These can include recommendations ranging from no-cost/low-cost options such as
adjusting hours of operation or making sure windows open and close properly, to
quite expensive activities such as full replacement of obsolete Heating, Ventilation
and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems. A draft "Energy Efficiency in Government
Facilities" policy is included as Appendix 7.
Program 2: Gas Can Exchange Program. One source of Ozone precursors,
especially VOCs, is leaking gas cans or fuel spills when outdoor power equipment is
fueled. Leak -proof and spill -proof cans are available. Local governments, either
independently or working through a regional organization such as the Solid Waste
Management District, could sponsor a gas can exchange program where old, leaky or
inefficient cans can be upgraded. Grant funding through the Solid Waste
Management District, MoDNR, or even EPA could defray virtually all of the
expenses associated with this program. Preliminary discussions with a major
manufacturer of fuel cans has indicated that private sector participation is likely in
this effort.
Southeast MJssouri Clean A,�ir A_ction Plan Page 15
Implementation Strategy: Improvements in gasoline nozzles and vapor
recovery systems have made fueling automobiles and trucks a very nearly pollution
free endeavor. In an odd twist, the gas cans used to fill outdoor power equipment,
and especially older cans, are prone to spills and vapor leaks. Fuel cans identified as
"CARB Compliant" meet the standards of the California Air Resources Board for
spill and leak resistance. These tend to be relatively costly although the potential
certainly exists to obtain a reduced cost or even donated supply to support a gas can
exchange program. Such a program will require safeguards to avoid abuse, although
with the relatively small numbers involved the likelihood of abuse is relatively small.
A draft "Gas Can Exchange Program Guidelines" is presented in Appendix 7.
Program 3: Discount for "Fueling -at -Night" Program. Similarly, local
governments could seek grant funding to support a discount when gasoline is sold
after dark or some set time such as 6:00 p.m. This has the effect of releasing the
normal vapors associated with fueling at a time of day that they will be dispersed
before the conditions for creating Ozone develop during the heat of the day. With
modern electronic price setting for gasoline fueling stations, this would not be a
particular burden for the businesses choosing to participate. In a system similar to
sales tax collection and reporting, a 1% fee could be retained by the businesses to
cover any costs incurred.
Implementation Strategy: Of all of the suggested programs in this CRAP,
the idea of offering a discount for fueling at night would be the most difficult to
implement. This would require funding, cooperation with private businesses, careful
tracking, and since the numbers would be big enough to attract abuse, some form of
eligibility checking. The preliminary estimate is that a discount on the order of 5%
would be needed to entice people to change habits of long standing. For a station
pumping, for example, 100,000 gallons of gas per month, the calculation would be:
100,000 Gallons per month
X $2.25 Price/gallon
$225,000 Spent/month
X.05 5% discount applied
$11,250 Cost per month per 100,000 gallons pumped "after
dark."
Moreover, some device will have to be developed to limit the City or County's
exposure. Otherwise, this would be an open-ended commitment of funds.
Establishing a flat dollar limit would require daily monitoring and notification to the
private sector businesses when funds had been expended. While this may well be the
most effective program proposed, it will also be the most complicated.
Program 4: "Smart Traffic" Program. In its simplest form, this would
involve a program for municipalities to ensure that their traffic control lights are
timed to allow through traffic without unnecessary stops. More sophisticated
programs supported by complex software can be used to adjust traffic lights to
address real time traffic flows. In either case, the point is to prevent unnecessary
idling at stop lights. The recent trend to replacing "all -stop intersections" with traffic
South t <ouri Clea ,fir Ac n Plan Pa 16
"roundabouts," while primarily done to enhance traffic flows, has the added benefit
of avoiding pollution emitting stops.
Implementation Strategy: This program will, in all likelihood, require the
services of specialists in this field. Careful analysis of traffic flows and speeds will be
necessary, at the least, to allow for proper timing of stop lights. Additional
adjustments to the system, accounting for night time lulls and rush hour peaks will
also be required to ensure the smoothest possible traffic flow.
Program 5: Fleet Maintenance Program. Governments operating fleets tend
to have regular maintenance programs in place. Simply emphasizing the need to keep
all vehicles in proper "tune," and handling such mundane tasks as regular tine air
pressure checks can make measurable improvements in fuel efficiency. Formalizing
this program will ensure that all possible efficiencies are attained.
Implementation Strategy: A fleet maintenance program is in place and this
implementation strategy is to simply emphasize and prioritize it. No additional
services should be required. Similarly, no additional staff will be required. This
program is a natural a natural target for a "management by walking around"
campaign to ensure that maintenance logs are up to date, tire pressures are checked
daily, and all of the other features of a formal and ongoing fleet maintenance
program are being adhered to.
Program 6: Diesel Emission Reduction Program. Government fleets often
have several units with diesel engines. These can include diesel powered trucks,
generators, tractor/boom mower units, and the like. For several years Congress has
recognized the additional pollution involved in diesel powered equipment. To this
end the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act authorized funding for an EPA -operated
program to address this issue. Local governments should take advantage of this
program to the extent possible.
Implementation Strategy: Local managers will be alerted to the program
availability and requested to prepare review information in anticipation of a grant
call. When a notice of funding availability is made, application should be made for all
relevant emission reduction equipment. This ranges from simple and relatively
inexpensive additional exhaust cleaning equipment to full early vehicle replacements.
Ordlnances
In some cases, direct action through an ordinance may be required to address
air pollution.
1. "Open Burning" Restrictions. Open burning of yard waste and other waste
contributes to ozone precursors as well as particulates. Cities and Counties can both
pass open burning ordinances under their "health and safety" authority.
T -re 'ouri Clean f_it
2. "Field Burning" Restrictions. In some respects, this would be a special
case of the open burning restrictions noted above. Traditional agricultural techniques
often involve burning off of "stubble" fields following harvests. Under modern no -
till practices, this approach is probably unnecessary and may be counterproductive.
Obviously, prior to adopting such restrictions the relevant governments, most likely
County Commissions, would consult closely with experts in the field. Missouri
Extension Agents and the Farm Bureau, along with local groups and stakeholders
would be involved in formulating the policy. It is clear, though, that the practice of
burning off fields generate significant clouds of smoke which are loaded with ozone
precursors and particulates.
Southeas i r L a n- M-_q:r `Wio'- an Page 18
Private Sector Policies/Programs
Private sector businesses share many characteristics with governments. They
run vehicle fleets and buildings for example. In detail there are some significant
differences though.
'M
1. Fleet "Right Sizing." Precisely the same rationale applies to the private
sector as to the public sector for this program. Replacement of larger vehicles with
smaller ones improves fuel efficiency, air quality, and saves money for the business.
2. Fleet Alternate Fuels. Once again, the same rationale applies to this policy.
For the private sector, the use of vehicles such as forklifts inside means that electric
or LP or CNG vehicles are common. The use of flex fuel, hybrids, or LP or CNG
fueled vehicles would help with air quality issues as well.
3. Preventive Maintenance/Tune-ups. A policy of preventive maintenance
and tune-ups simply keeps vehicles and equipment operating efficiently. Properly
maintained equipment pollutes less, gets better mileage, and lasts longer.
4. Incentives for employee carpooling. A policy of providing incentives for
employee carpooling is an important option for consideration. Such incentives as
close in parking for carpool participants or even cash incentives could significantly
reduce the number of private automobiles on the road. This policy is particularly
important since private businesses, with their clearly defined shift hours, tend to have
many automobiles on the road at very identifiable times (classic "rush hours"). In an
extreme form of carpooling, private employers can participate with public
transportation providers to offer a bus service. This approach has been used by at
least two large employers in the area.
5. Adjusting shift hours. The generally accepted standard shift rotation in
industries operating on a 24 hour per day basis has been 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., 3:00
p.m. to 11:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. For offices, the 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
work day is the standard. These time frames are the direct cause of the rush hours
common in many communities. Adjusting the shift times could ease the rush hours
and as a result reduce the concentration of air pollutants during specific times of the
day.
Program 1: Utilize Best Available Control Technology (BACT) in
Expansions. The private sector, and especially manufacturing concerns, often has to
obtain clean air permits when significant expansions are undertaken. The utilization
of BACT in these expansions is somewhat more expensive than Reasonably
Available Control Technology (RACT). It is, as a rule, significantly less expensive
than Lowest Achievable Emission Rate (LAER). By agreeing to utilize BACT,
Southeast Missouri Clean AJr A_ction Plan I Pa 19
industry may be able to avoid the additional expenses associated with the "cost is no
object" approach of LAER technology.
Program 2: Energy Auditing and Efficiency Programs. Precisely the same
rationale applies to the private sector implementing an Energy Audit and Efficiency
Program as applies to government. Businesses operate large facilities, and in the case
of manufacturing firms, extremely large and open buildings. At least one local
industry has already installed automatic lighting in the office areas so that lights
automatically turn off when a room is empty for more than 5 minutes and then come
on automatically when a room is entered. Replacement of old, relatively inefficient
fluorescent lighting ballasts with modern, energy efficient ballasts was also
undertaken. Faced with the ever present question of "how does this affect our
bottom line," private sector improvements of this nature serve as a model and are
driven by reasonably rapid recovery of investment.
Regiond Pmgrams
There are programs that lend themselves to a regional approach. These
include:
Regional Planning Commission staff will monitor the results from the Bonne
Terre and Farrar monitors on a regular basis. In addition, they will get on all relevant
email lists from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and the St. Louis
Regional Clean Air Partnership. Whenever ozone levels appear to be rising or there
is a threat of noncompliance due to weather considerations, an email will be
distributed to all media outlets explaining that the threat exists and providing a list of
voluntary responses that can help avoid problems.
sae&r6ff Bureau
The logical repository for a speakers bureau on the subject of air quality is
the RPC. Staff has developed expertise and will prepare formal presentations. In
addition, outside volunteer expertise from the public, private and education sectors
will be engaged and included.
1%Se1fm&bW Redxian &t P
The Diesel Emissions Reduction Act was passed by the Congress and
implemented by EPA. For Fiscal Year 2009-10 the RPC is the administrative entity
for this program for the southeast Missouri region. The RPC will continue to offer
its services as the administrator and to promote clean diesel efforts in the region.
Southealk NLssouri Clea P1 A—Pc 2O
T melines for Implementation
The following timeline indicates the general schedule along with major
benchmark points for implementation of the CRAP. The timeline is necessarily
generalized, and presented in terms of "seasons" rather than specific dates. These are
achievable timelines and will be implemented on adoption of this plan.
WInter 2009-10, Spring/Summer 2010- fducabon/0utneach 1nif8bon.
Possibly the most important component of this entire plan is the
involvement of citizens. Only about a quarter of VOCs and about 40% of NOx can
be traced to point sources of emissions. Clearly, then, "area" sources including small
businesses and homeowners along with "mobile" sources including both on- and
off-road vehicles represent the greatest part of locally generated pollution. To engage
the public then, who ultimately are the ones who will control this source, it will be
important to initiate the informational/outreach early. This will involve the full range
of activities identified earlier. It is important to understand that this is simply the
initiation step for the overall informational outreach effort, and the effort itself will
be ongoing.
Winter 2009-10.• Presentations for Formal &option to County Commissions
County government, with its wide range of responsibilities, tends to operate
more buildings and vehicles than municipalities. This is simply a function of more
road responsibility and a variety of administrative duties lodged at the county level.
Therefore, the initial effort to obtain formal acceptance and adoption of the policies
and programs identified earlier will focus on county commissions. All seven county
commissions will be visited on at least one regularly scheduled meeting session and
the formal policies and implementing resolutions will be presented at that time. Any
follow-up meetings necessary will be undertaken with the goal of formal adoption
before the 2010 ozone season.
WInter 2009-10, Remainder of 2070- Presentations for formal fiobpffon to Municipalites
Municipal governments tend to have fewer buildings and smaller fleets.
Nevertheless, they remain significant both in terms of direct emission reductions and
the "example to follow" factor. Following the initial round of presentations to
county commissions meetings will be scheduled with municipalities to address the
policies and programs identified above. The goal is to have all local governments
adopt these policies and programs before the end of 2010.
2010 and Ongoing. Obtain Support and flgreement from Private lndustry
The imposition of regulation or requirements on private industry is outside
of the authority of local government. Voluntary efforts are not. Beginning with
industries that can be identified as the largest sources of emissions from published
Southeast i ou 'i Clean Ait A-ctiod- I
I Page 21
EPA and MoDNR sources, industry will be contacted and voluntary agreement to
undertake the policies and programs identified earlier will be sought. Since this is not
a regulatory function, a simple letter identifying policies and programs that the
industry will agree to adopt will be sought. The goal is to identify and obtain such
agreement from the 25 top emitters before the end of 2010.
Rmendments
In many ways, any plan is always a "work in progress." This is particularly
true of this Clean Air Action Plan where the technology and the understanding of
Best Practices is evolving. Since this is such a fluid subject, a formal amendment
process is considered necessary.
Amendment Procedure
This Clean Air Action Plan is subject to amendment. Amendment will be by
a majority vote of the Southeast Missouri Regional Planning Commission at a
regularly scheduled meeting at which a quorum is present. Such amendment will
have been placed on the agenda and a copy of the proposed amendment will have
been forwarded to the Board of Directors with the regular Meeting Notice Package.
Southeast NLssouri CleaP,�ir Actio an Pages
Glossary of Key Terms
Since air quality issues are, by their nature, technical, it is impossible to avoid
all technical terms or jargon. Although this CAAP is written as much as possible to
be free of such language there are some terms that are unavoidable. This brief
"Glossary" is offered to help clear up language and provide sufficient grounding to
avoid questions as the plan is reviewed. The authors specifically ask that any terms
that remain obscure or undefined be brought to our attention at
dgrimes&semorpc.org so that the glossary can be expanded in future editions and
revisions.
Area Sources: Area sources are small, dispersed sources of air pollution (less than
10 tons per day of criteria pollutants or 25 tons per day of combined pollutants) that
are found commonly throughout the country. "Standard examples" include dry
cleaners, gas stations and auto body shops. Area sources account for over half of
particulate matter emissions and account for more VOC emissions than either point
or mobile sources.
BTU: British Thermal Units (BTUs) are a common measure of energy. Specifically, a
BTU is the amount of energy required to raise one pound of water one degree
Fahrenheit. For scale, a BTU is approximately the energy contained in a standard
wooden kitchen match.
Carbon Monoxide: Carbon Monoxide is a molecule of one Carbon and one
Oxygen atom. Carbon Monoxide is colorless and odorless and can be deadly in
concentration since it can be picked up by red blood cells in place of oxygen and
cause oxygen starvation and ultimately death.
Clean Air Act (CAA): The Clean Air Act, through its several amendments, is the
basic authority for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to develop, revise, and
publish air quality standards and then to impose regulations to achieve those
standards.
Criteria Pollutants: Under the CAA, EPA has determined that six basic pollutants
can be measured and serve as indicators of overall air quality. The Criteria Pollutants
include Particulates, Ground Level Ozone, Carbon Monoxide, Sulfur Oxides,
Nitrogen Oxides and Lead.
Lead: Lead is a heavy metal that accumulates in the human body and can lead to
many physical and mental problems especially with the young. Lead was a much
more generalized problem when Tetra -ethyl Lead was an "anti -knock" additive in
automobile gasoline. The problems of lead are now limited to areas in the immediate
vicinity of lead mining or processing operations and the lead in paint of old
buildings.
Mobile Sources: Mobile sources include on- and off-road vehicles and equipment
as well as marine and railroad motive sources. Mobile sources are significant carbon
Sout4 st IvLssouri Clean ftir A—ction Plan P a g- Ulm
i
monoxide (CO) emitters (approximately 75% of all CO emissions) and NOx,
emitting more NOx than area or point sources.
Nitrogen Oxides: Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) are molecules consisting of one
Nitrogen and one or more Oxygen atoms. They are one of the "precursors" of
ozone. NOx and VOCs, in conditions of heat and sunlight combine to form ground
level ozone.
Ozone: Ozone is a molecule comprised of 3 Oxygen atoms. Ozone is an irritant to
many tissues and can cause eye and lung irritation in high concentrations. In the
stratosphere, miles above the earth's surface, the "ozone layer" helps shield from
ultraviolet radiation. On the surface, though, "ground level ozone" is considered a
pollutant.
Particulates: Particulates are extremely small particles that can cause lung problems
if inhaled. These particles are smaller than 10 microns. A micron is one one -millionth
of a meter (a strand of human hair is approximately 100 microns in diameter and a
red blood cell is approximately 7 microns in diameter).
Point Sources: Point sources are specific, identifiable operations that emit at least
10 tons per year of any criteria pollutant or 25 tons per year of a mixture of air
pollutants. Examples include major industrial facilities, steel mills, power plants and
the like. Point sources are the primary source of sulfur dioxide emissions (almost
90%) and also major sources of NOx. They are less significant VOC emitters.
Precursors: Ozone is not, as a rule, directly produced by industrial processes.
Rather, Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are
produced. These compounds combine, in warm conditions and sunlight, to form
ozone. NOx and VOCs are, therefore, referred to as ozone "precursors."
Sulfur Oxides: Sulfur Oxides (SOx) are molecules of Sulfur and Oxygen. The
primary reason it is considered as a criteria pollutant is that as Sulfur Trioxide (SO3)
when combined with water in the atmosphere it forms Sulfuric Acid (HZSOJ
commonly known as Acid Rain.
Volatile Organic Compounds: Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are a wide
variety of "organic" chemicals which, in turn, simply means that they are Carbon
based chemicals. The "volatile" part of the term means that they vaporize easily into
the atmosphere. VOCs are another ozone precursor which, in combination with
NOx and in warm conditions in the presence of sunlight produce ozone. Virtually all
solvents contain VOCs. One example familiar to almost everyone is the odor
associated with gasoline. The vaporized VOCs are what is being smelled.
Southeast NLssouri Clean ,fir &ction Plan 2�1
fgppendix 1
Sample Public Service flnnouncement Scripts
Southeast tvLissouri Clea ="Ajr f_ction Plan i Page
30 Second Introductory PS/?
Air quality issues are no longer just a city problem. Under the latest
recommendations from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Perry and
Ste. Genevieve Counties would be designated as nonattainment areas. We can help
address this problem by doing a few simple things that don't cost us anything.
First, stop at the first click when fueling your car or truck.
Second, do your fueling at night.
Third, do your yard work in the evening (when it's cooler anyway).
Just those three things done by everyone can make a difference.
30 -Second first Follow Up P5/9
I've been telling you about air quality and asking you to stop at the click, fuel
at night, and do your yard work in the evening. Maybe you wonder why.
Ozone, the stuff you see in smog, is made up of air pollutants and forms
when these chemicals combine on a warm day in the presence of sunlight. If you
stop at the click you release less. If you fuel and do your yard work at night you take
the "heat and sunlight" out of the equation. It's really just that simple.
See, it's only magic when you don't know how.
30 -Second follow Up PSi9
So you've been doing your part for air quality. Been stopping at the click and
fueling at night and even doing your yard work in the evening. Now you're
wondering what else you can do.
Lots of things really. Mostly, think about the air and adjust your habits.
Here are three more examples.
Cut down on idling when you're in your car.
Plan to combine trips — in other words — cut down your driving.
Carpool.
See, we're still making an impact and it's not costing anything.
Southeast IvLssouri "n lair A_ction Plan llI
1
fippendix Z
Sample Press Releases
Southeast Mjssouri Clean A.IA-cti. n Plan
Introductory Press Release
The Southeast Missouri Regional Planning Commission (SEMO RPC)
released the Clean Air Action Plan (CAAP) for Southeast Missouri yesterday. The
CAAP provides a series of program and policy recommendations to address air
quality issues in a service area including Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, Iron, Madison,
Perry, St. Francois and Ste. Genevieve Counties. Citizens are invited to inspect this
plan at local County Courthouses, City Halls or on the SEMO RPC web site,
www.semoLpc.org.
In his cover letter transmitting the CRAP, Chauncy Buchheit, Executive
Director of the SEMO RPC, explained the theory on which the plan was based. By
taking a "voluntary and proactive" approach the stated purpose of the CAAP was to
avoid the imposition of regulations by either the Missouri Department of Natural
Resources or the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. "Our rural areas have a
limited number of things they can do," he said in that letter, "and by putting them
into this formal plan adopted by the Board of Directors and by several individual
Counties we are demonstrating that we are doing everything that can be done."
The CAAP is long on recommendations for voluntary, no -cost actions and
practically devoid of proposed regulations or formal rules. Educational programs
featuring "stop at the click," "fuel at night," "yard work at night," and other
voluntary activities are central to the plan. Some policy changes by local governments
are also recommended. These include things like "rightsizing" the vehicle fleet,
investigating the potential for alternative fuel use, and energy audit and energy
efficiency programs for public buildings.
"Our biggest problem," David Grimes, the lead planner on this project said,
"is that we are getting very near to the point where background levels are no longer
in compliance with the regulations." He went on to explain that when the new EPA
standards for ozone were announced, only one Missouri monitor was in compliance.
"When the only monitor in the state that is not out of compliance is located in the
middle of a national forest, you have to wonder about the standard," he concluded.
W -lb MR o u r i Me an _ -_t'n Plaq7-
. P
Program Press Release
The Southeast Missouri Regional Planning Commission (RPC), in
cooperation with the Southeast Missouri Solid Waste Management District (SWMD),
Blitz Manufacturing, Lowe's and Orschelin's will be sponsoring a "Gas Can
Exchange Program," beginning and running for as long as
supplies last. Citizens wanting to participate in this program can take their old gas
cans to any Lowe's or Orschelin's store and exchange it for a new Blitz California Air
Resources Board certified gas can. For this pilot program, the Lowe's and
Orschelin's stores in Cape Girardeau are participating but you do not have to be a
citizen of this county to use the program
Southeast Mjssouri Clean Air Acti an I Page 29
19ppendix 3
Model Fleet Purchase Evaluation Policy
Southeast tvLssouri Clea Aiir A—ction Plan Page30
Policy
«cry/cowry»
Regarding
Evaluation Prior to Vehicle Purchases
BACKGROUND:
The ((C,itylCounty)) of is implementing this policy to address
several issues. Specifically:
1. The use of smaller vehicles may result in reduced initial purchase costs;
2. The use of smaller vehicles will result in reduced air pollution;
3. The use of alternative fuels will result in reduced air pollution;
4. The use of smaller vehicles will result in reduced operating costs and
specifically reduced fuel consumption;
5. The use of alternative fuels will provide a test bed to evaluate these fuels in
harsh, real world conditions;
6. The use of alternative fuels will provide citizens with visible proof that such
fuels can be used without undue problems; and,
7. The use of smaller vehicles will provide a visible example of careful use of
scarce taxpayer dollars.
It is, therefore, the stated policy of the ((County CommisslonlCity
Counct7/Board ofAldenmen)) that each proposed purchase of a new vehicle will
be subjected to scrutiny based on the following criteria. Any proposed vehicle
purchase presented for budget authority will include an analysis based on these
criteria.
CRITERIA:
Average or usual anticipated use of the vehicle. Under this criteria, evaluate
the normal use of the vehicle. Occasional uses can be handled through
vehicle switching or sharing, or rental in extreme cases.
a. For example, if the most common use of the vehicle to be purchased
involves transportation of a supervisor to inspect work sites, and the
occasional use for the vehicle would be to transport heavy equipment
to the work sites, the evaluation should be in favor of a smaller
vehicle.
Southeast Rjdm- ouri Cleon 1�iir A_ction Man I Page 31
b. If, however, the most common use of the vehicle involves the
supervisor transporting equipment as a part of his or her site visits,
the evaluation should be in favor of a larger vehicle.
2. Life cycle cost. Under this criteria, evaluate the various components of a life
cycle cost for proposed vehicles. This would include initial purchase price,
anticipated maintenance costs, anticipated fuel costs, and resale costs at a
minimum.
a. For example, the lower purchase price of a smaller vehicle might be
offset by its lower resale cost.
b. This evaluation must be made against the average anticipated use
identified earlier in the process.
3. Fuel choice. Under this criteria, evaluate the availability of various fuel types
and their applicability to the average anticipated use identified earlier in the
process.
a. For example, if the average anticipated use for the vehicle is site
visiting within the city limits, specific fuels such as Compressed
Natural Gas (CNG), Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LP) or electric
vehicles might be reasonable.
b. If, however, the most common use of the vehicle involves relatively
long trips for staff, then "normal' fuels such as gasoline or "flex
fuel' (85% Ethanol) with their wider availability would be the
reasonable choice.
4. General Considerations.
a. EPA mileage rating. The most directly controllable cost is in fuel
economy. Other things being equal, the recommendation should
favor the more fuel efficient vehicle.
b. Where available, other measures of emissions should also be
considered. Other things being equal, the recommendation should
favor the vehicle with lower emissions.
This Policy Adopted this day of )200—.
Attest:
Southeast NLissouri MILan ,fir A_ction Plan Page
19ppendlx 4
T-6ovemment'l'olicy
I
Southeast Missouri (7jeon Air A_ction Plan Page 33
Policy
((City/County))
Regarding
Electronic Government Initiatives
BACKGROUND:
The ((City/CoUaty)) of is implementing this policy to address
several issues. Specifically:
8. The implementation of electronic government initiatives will result in citizens
being required to make fewer trips to ((0iyHAll/County Cour&ouse)l
9. The implementation of electronic government initiatives will improve
efficiency and reduce waste; and,
10. The implementation of electronic government initiatives will make
interaction with government more convenient to citizens.
It is, therefore, the stated policy of the ((County Comtniss�on/Cittp
Counc fflBoard ofAldermen)) that ((City/County)) wi11, to
the extent practical, make the normal functions of government available to citizens
electronically via the internet. In furtherance of this policy, the following directive is
issued:
DIRECTIVE
Each department head is directed to review the functions of their respective
department and present to the ((County Commfssiots/City Coundl/Board of
Aldermen)) a report identifying what areas within their departments might be
candidates for being included in an Electronic Government Initiative. These reports
will be comprehensive, and will include evaluations of:
1. Functions of the department that might be posted on an internet web site or
link;
2. Functions of the department that might be amenable to a "paperless office"
approach; and,
3. Functions of the department that are not amenable to being included in an
Electronic Government Initiative .
Soy `east PMTVSouri Clean lair ction Plan I Pa
Irow-
It is specifically noted that the ((County .ty CounefflBoard of
Aldeemen)) recognizes that there are areas of government that are not subject to an
"Electronic Government" approach. Most obviously, those functions that require
identification of the applicant/recipient would still require a face-to-face meeting. In
those cases, however, the adoption of sufficient password protection and a Personal
Identification Number (PIN) should make additional face-to-face meetings
unnecessary.
This Directive issued this day of , 200_.
Attest:
AW Southea MjSSOu Clean A,ir &ction Plon � Page 3S
fippendix 5
Somple Speed Limit Enforcement Policy
Southeast Mjssour Mean" `Acti n Plan I Page36
Policy
((Cit
ylCo un tj'��
Regarding
Speed Limit Enforcement
BACKGROUND:
The ((City/County)) of _
several issues. Specifically:
is implementing this policy to address
1. Careful enforcement of speed limits will improve safety on streets and
highways;
2. Careful enforcement of speed limits will result in reduced air pollutants
emitted; and,
3. Careful enforcement of speed limits will deter "scofflaws" and will serve as
an example to citizens.
It is, therefore, the stated policy of the ((County Coatm�8s�ot�/C1ty
Council/Board ofAldermen)) that the ((Police/ShczdM) Department will
carefully enforce speed limits on streets and highways. In furtherance of this policy,
the following directive is issued:
DIRECTIVE
The ((P0lice/SbC1d8)) Department is hereby directed to carefully enforce speed
limits on streets and highways. Under this directive, individual officers retain the
responsibility and authority to evaluate emergency situations and, as needed, to
ignore violations of speed limits if the circumstances warrant in his/her professional
opinion.
This Directive issued this day of .200—
Attest: 200_.
Attest:
Southeast NLs 'ouri Clean A,�ir A_ctioMPI an Page 37'
flppendix 6
Sample Recycling Policy
Southeast Mjssouri Oeon A -- Io Pl
BACKGROUND:
The ((City/County)) of _
several issues. Specifically:
Policy
((City/County))
Regarding
Recycling
is implementing this policy to address
Recycling reduces the volume of material going into landfills;
2. Recycling reduces the volume of materials subject to open incineration, and,
3. Recycling efforts promote good environmental stewardship and the
((City/County)) will serve as an example to citizens.
It is, therefore, the stated policy of the ((CountyCommiss�ott/City
CouncWBoard ofAldermenn)) that the ((City/County)) will participate in
recycling efforts by notifying all employees of this policy. In furtherance of this
policy, the following directive is issued:
DIRECTIVE
All ((City/County)) offices are directed to obtain suitable bins or containers and
initiate a program of collecting and separating paper, plastic and aluminum and such
other recyclable items as may be identified in the future and cooperating with the
((RECYCLING GROUP)) in collecting these materials at convenient times.
This Directive issued this
Attest:
day of , 200_.
Southea` ouri Clea Ajr A_ctio lan Page
flppendix 7
Draft Energy Efficiency in Government Facilities Program
Southeast NLssouri Clean PLr Action Plan Page-iO
Policy
((City/County))
Regarding
Energy Efficiency in ((City/County))
Buildings
BACKGROUND:
The ((City/County)) of _
several issues. Specifically:
is implementing this policy to address
1. Reduction in energy use in public buildings will save taxpayer dollars;
2. Reduction in energy use in public buildings will help national goals of energy
self-sufficiency; and,
3. Reduction in energy use in public buildings will help efforts to reduce air
pollution.
It is, therefore, the stated policy of the ((County Commiseson/C�ty
Council/Board ofAlde men)) that the ((City/County)) will initiate a policy to
promote energy efficiency in all public buildings. To achieve this policy an Energy
Audit will be performed on each public building. When the Energy Audit is
completed the relevant building manager/department head will prepare a capital
improvements program to implement such of the recommendations included in the
Energy Audit as are feasible.
This Policy adopted day of —)200—.
Attest:
Southeast Mjssouri Clean Pyr l_cti n Man age q1 j
_ � I
fippendix 8
bas Can Exchange f l-ogram Guidelines
Southeast Mj13 uri W n jiir f—cM- n Plan a
I
Policy
l<ciry/co��r»
Regarding
A Gas Can Exchange Program
BACKGROUND:
The ((City/County)) of is implementing this policy to address
air pollution issues resulting from fuel and vapor escapes from old, damaged, or
inefficient small gas cans.
It is, therefore, the stated policy of the ((CouctyCommiaeion/City
Coundl/BomW ofAldermen)) that ((City/County))
will support and sponsor a program to exchange old, damaged and inefficient small
gas cans for new, leak and spill resistant gas cans. In furtherance of this program, the
following policy is adopted:
POLICY:
The ((County Comausaion/City Counc7l/Board ofAldermen)) will seek
funding through such sources as seem appropriate (i.e. Southeast Missouri Solid
Waste Management District, Missouri Department of Natural Resources, U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency or U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development Community Development Block Grant program) to support a Gas
Can Exchange Program.
This Policy effective this day of .200—
Attest: 200_.
Attest:
Southeast NLissouri Clean ,fir A_ction Plan i Page'g3
Gas Con Exchonge
Program Design and Guidelines
Program Design
This program is designed as a true "public/private" partnership. The
anticipated partners in the program include:
1. Manufacturer — Major manufacturers of fuel cans will provide cans at a
reduced cost basis. In return all education and outreach materials will
prominently feature the manufacturers participating and acknowledge that
these are "good corporate citizens." Any necessary releases will be signed
allowing the manufacturer to freely use this program in their advertising and
marketing efforts.
2. Retail — Retail outlets are the most reasonable locations for this sort of a
program. The approach could be something on the order of "$10 Trade -In
for your old gas cad' or a straightforward "Gas Can Exchange." In either
case, the retailer would handle the transaction and then provide a bill to
cover all or part of the expenses involved. All efforts would be made to keep
paperwork to a minimum, but it would be necessary to have some system in
place to track the number of cans exchanged for reporting and billing
purposes.
3. Media — Informational/outreach efforts promoting this program would
necessarily involve the news media. Public Service Announcements on radio
and possibly television, and press releases would be the core of this effort. In
all cases, the participation of the manufacturer and retail outlets would be
featured prominently.
4. Government — Government funding would be required to purchase the new
cans at the reduced cost.
new gas cans @ $ per can
Sout east MJ ouri Clean ,fir P_ction Plan j PO -