Climate Action Comm. looking into Stretch Energy Code

By Mike Berger

The town’s Climate Action Plan Committee will be taking a vote this week on whether to submit a town meeting article for the adoption of a new Stretch Energy Code to promote greater energy efficiency in newly constructed buildings.

Additionally, the committee is also looking into a state grant opportunity that would enable the town to hire sustainability manager, with the grant covering the salary and benefits for the position for a period of three years.

Tom Birmingham, chair of the CAP Committee, provided a snapshot of both ideas to the Select Board Tuesday night, and board members responded with questions and concerns. Regarding the Stretch Energy Code, Chair Mike Loughran said there could be concerns from the business community about added costs and suggested that committee members seek input from the Canton Association of Business and Industry (CABI) and Canton Economic Development Committee. Loughran said there could also be negative impacts on proposed new affordable housing projects, which could drive up the costs for prospective homeowners.

Regarding the request for a sustainability manager, board members questioned what the town’s obligation would be after the grant funds have been exhausted. Birmingham said he would report back to the Select Board at its next meeting on January 7 after the committee has had a chance to vote on both measures.

In other news from the December 17 Select Board meeting:

* Town Administrator Charles Doody announced that winter hours will go into effect at the Pine Street transfer station on December 23 and last until April 5. Hours are Wednesday through Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the station will be closed during inclement weather and on holidays. The fee for an annual sticker is $20.

* Doody announced the start of the Canton Police Department’s body-worn camera program, which took effect on November 1 …

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