The City of Monterey Park was awarded a stimulus grant in the amount of $584,600 from the U S. Department of Energy (DOE). Monies from the Recovery Act – Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant were received to fund projects that reduce energy use and fossil fuel emissions, and improve energy efficiency.

Application for the funds was challenging because of the short period of time allowed for preparation prior to the submittal deadline. A team of employees from several departments worked diligently towards identifying activities that would meet the DOE’s criteria and best meet the needs of the community. This team was very successful and the City has been awarded the $584,600.

Three activities were submitted for approval as follows:

1. Replace Roof at Senior Community Center

The Langley Senior Center’s existing flat composition bouncy castle for sale roof is 30 years old and is energy deficient. The City will replace the existing roof with high-energy efficiency materials, which will dramatically reduce the City’s operational costs and energy usage associated with heating and cooling the Senior Citizen Community Center

2. Energy Use and Sustainability Action Plan

This activity will focus on three main targets: develop a course of action to improve energy use and efficiency, reduce green house gas emission, and lower reliance on fossil fuels. This Plan will identify and lay the foundation for future tasks that will improve energy efficiency in the City.

3. Develop Sustainable and Green Guidelines

The educational outreach program will have two components: The first part will be the Going Green Policy which will raise the community’s awareness and educate residents and businesses about sustainable practices and how they can be incorporated into daily routines. The second part will be a program that includes technical data and design guidelines for both professionals and the general public to utilize during development and facilitate achievement of LEED and National Green Building Standards. A key component of this portion of the educational outreach program will be the formulation of a Green Building Program guidebook, which will provide user-friendly design guidelines. technical data, and product information for design professionals and general public.

The City will create a new pedestrian-oriented Mixed-Use Development Guidelines and Standards for downtown area as well as surrounding commercial areas, re-evaluate its current parking standards and the potential for implementing a ”Park Once” Program, and develop incentives that will encourage energy efficient developments that will also incorporate Energy Star products.

For additional information contact the Economic Development Department, Donna Ramirez at (626) 307-1385 or e-mail her at dramirez@montereypark.ca.gov