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Current Assessment:
Bronze
Bronze
Assessment History:
Stormwater and Flooding
Question:
The municipality is working collaboratively with neighboring municipalities and community groups. Select all that apply.
The municipality is working collaboratively with neighboring municipalities and community groups. Select all that apply.
Answer:
A. The community collaborates with other municipalities and authorities in their watershed to manage source water, treatment and distribution, sewage, and stormwater. - B. The municipality collaborates with (or has recruited/fostered) a watershed group or organization to protect and improve the wetlands and waterways located in the community's watersheds.
A. The community collaborates with other municipalities and authorities in their watershed to manage source water, treatment and distribution, sewage, and stormwater. - B. The municipality collaborates with (or has recruited/fostered) a watershed group or organization to protect and improve the wetlands and waterways located in the community's watersheds.
Notes:
Question:
Construction in flood zones is strictly controlled and limited. Select all that apply.
Construction in flood zones is strictly controlled and limited. Select all that apply.
Answer:
B. No new building is permitted in an area deemed an "AE Flood Zone" and any redevelopment must be built to meet or exceed the Flood Resistant Provisions of the 2015 (or newer) International Codes. (documentation required) - C. The municipality has a written policy to purchase and demolish any buildings in high risk flood plain areas when they go up for sale. (documentation required)
B. No new building is permitted in an area deemed an "AE Flood Zone" and any redevelopment must be built to meet or exceed the Flood Resistant Provisions of the 2015 (or newer) International Codes. (documentation required) - C. The municipality has a written policy to purchase and demolish any buildings in high risk flood plain areas when they go up for sale. (documentation required)
Notes:
https://ecode360.com/30871927
https://ecode360.com/30871927
Question:
The municipality requires, incentivizes, or promotes green infrastructure techniques or "enhanced stormwater management" to mitigate runoff from onsite stormwater, such as pervious pavement, bioswales, and/or green roofs. Select all that apply.
The municipality requires, incentivizes, or promotes green infrastructure techniques or "enhanced stormwater management" to mitigate runoff from onsite stormwater, such as pervious pavement, bioswales, and/or green roofs. Select all that apply.
Answer:
A. The municipality requires or incentivise new developments or redevelopments to utilize green infrastructure. (documentation required) - B. The municipality promotes green infrastructure through incentives, design guidelines, and/or support for educational programs/workshops.
A. The municipality requires or incentivise new developments or redevelopments to utilize green infrastructure. (documentation required) - B. The municipality promotes green infrastructure through incentives, design guidelines, and/or support for educational programs/workshops.
Notes:
Question:
A water infrastructure capital assessment has been completed and an improvement plan developed with a budget to ensure that investments are being made to water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure systems to keep pace with maintenance and operations to improve water quality, and green infrastructure strategies are prioritized over grey.
A water infrastructure capital assessment has been completed and an improvement plan developed with a budget to ensure that investments are being made to water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure systems to keep pace with maintenance and operations to improve water quality, and green infrastructure strategies are prioritized over grey.
Answer:
A. Yes (documentation required)
A. Yes (documentation required)
Notes:
We have a Capital Improvement Memo, but the file is too large to upload.
We have a Capital Improvement Memo, but the file is too large to upload.
Public Engagement
Question:
Municipality works with schools and/or local nonprofits/community organizations to engage students about community issues such as waste reduction and recycling, public safety, wellness, conservation, nature, etc.
Municipality works with schools and/or local nonprofits/community organizations to engage students about community issues such as waste reduction and recycling, public safety, wellness, conservation, nature, etc.
Answer:
A. Yes
A. Yes
Notes:
Question:
The municipality communicates regularly with the public about public meetings, municipal news, and other important information. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
The municipality communicates regularly with the public about public meetings, municipal news, and other important information. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
Answer:
A. The municipality has up-to-date council meeting schedules, agendas, and minutes posted online. - B. The municipality broadcasts public meetings on an online platform (Zoom, Facebook, Youtube, Vimeo, etc.) and has links to recorded public meetings on their municipal website. - C. Municipality communicates with the public via a regularly scheduled newsletter or regularly updated and dated web-based news postings. - D. Municipality regularly communicates via Facebook and/or Twitter or a specifically designed civic engagement app like Civic Plus or Nextdoor.
A. The municipality has up-to-date council meeting schedules, agendas, and minutes posted online. - B. The municipality broadcasts public meetings on an online platform (Zoom, Facebook, Youtube, Vimeo, etc.) and has links to recorded public meetings on their municipal website. - C. Municipality communicates with the public via a regularly scheduled newsletter or regularly updated and dated web-based news postings. - D. Municipality regularly communicates via Facebook and/or Twitter or a specifically designed civic engagement app like Civic Plus or Nextdoor.
Notes:
Finances
Question:
The municipality has financially assessed obligations for pensions, labor contract proposals for their duration, and other post-employment benefits.
The municipality has financially assessed obligations for pensions, labor contract proposals for their duration, and other post-employment benefits.
Answer:
A. Obligations for pensions/other post-employment benefits are funded for the long-term to at least 80%. (documentation required)
A. Obligations for pensions/other post-employment benefits are funded for the long-term to at least 80%. (documentation required)
Notes:
Question:
The municipality utilizes the following best practices for creating, managing, and publicizing the municipal budget. Select all that apply.
The municipality utilizes the following best practices for creating, managing, and publicizing the municipal budget. Select all that apply.
Answer:
C. Funds equivalent to a minimum of 2 months worth of expenditures or revenue are carried over year to year.
C. Funds equivalent to a minimum of 2 months worth of expenditures or revenue are carried over year to year.
Notes:
Regional Cooperation
Question:
The municipality and local public schools cooperate to share facilities and other resources. For example, the municipality assists with the cost of evening lifeguards for community use or the provision of crossing guards.
The municipality and local public schools cooperate to share facilities and other resources. For example, the municipality assists with the cost of evening lifeguards for community use or the provision of crossing guards.
Answer:
A. Yes
A. Yes
Notes:
Question:
Municipality is an active participant in a Council of Governments and regularly attends functions, participates in projects, and pays dues.
Municipality is an active participant in a Council of Governments and regularly attends functions, participates in projects, and pays dues.
Answer:
A. Yes
A. Yes
Notes:
Equitable Policies and Practices
Question:
The municipality has taken or regularly takes the following actions to ensure it is improving organizational diversity, equity and inclusion. Some of these steps could be included as part of vision, strategy, or plan development. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
The municipality has taken or regularly takes the following actions to ensure it is improving organizational diversity, equity and inclusion. Some of these steps could be included as part of vision, strategy, or plan development. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
Answer:
B. The municipality has undertaken a compensation analysis to determine that compensation is within wage and/or salary parameters for each respective position and any variation in pay is based upon legitimate, nondiscriminatory business factors. - D. The municipality has written job descriptions for every position and clear employment policies that have been reviewed by a solicitor or qualified labor attorney.
B. The municipality has undertaken a compensation analysis to determine that compensation is within wage and/or salary parameters for each respective position and any variation in pay is based upon legitimate, nondiscriminatory business factors. - D. The municipality has written job descriptions for every position and clear employment policies that have been reviewed by a solicitor or qualified labor attorney.
Notes:
Question:
The municipality has participated in PML's Race Equity And Leadership (REAL) program, the Pennsylvania Heart and Soul program, or a similar program.
The municipality has participated in PML's Race Equity And Leadership (REAL) program, the Pennsylvania Heart and Soul program, or a similar program.
Answer:
A. Yes
A. Yes
Notes:
Question:
The municipality is engaged in programs to communicate that the community is welcoming to persons who represent diversity. For example: sister city relations, diversity sensitivity training, multilingual signage, etc. (documentation required) Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
The municipality is engaged in programs to communicate that the community is welcoming to persons who represent diversity. For example: sister city relations, diversity sensitivity training, multilingual signage, etc. (documentation required) Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
Answer:
C. The municipality regularly features people of color and other ethnicities on the website, newsletters, and other marketing materials accessible or sent to residents and businesses. - D. The community actively supports public events celebrating social and cultural diversity such as MLK day, Juneteenth, Pride, Cinco de Mayo, etc.
C. The municipality regularly features people of color and other ethnicities on the website, newsletters, and other marketing materials accessible or sent to residents and businesses. - D. The community actively supports public events celebrating social and cultural diversity such as MLK day, Juneteenth, Pride, Cinco de Mayo, etc.
Notes:
www.upperchi.org https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CkeqXGFyp/
www.upperchi.org https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CkeqXGFyp/
Operations Materials Management
Question:
In which of the following ways does the municipality track its internal or operational waste? Select all that apply.
In which of the following ways does the municipality track its internal or operational waste? Select all that apply.
Answer:
A. We collect waste data from our hauler(s).
A. We collect waste data from our hauler(s).
Notes:
Question:
All municipal buildings have an active recycling program. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
All municipal buildings have an active recycling program. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
Answer:
A. There is a active recycling program for all municipal operations. - C. The program includes informational signage at waste/recycling receptacles.
A. There is a active recycling program for all municipal operations. - C. The program includes informational signage at waste/recycling receptacles.
Notes:
Community Wide Materials Management
Question:
The municipality supports or provides composting.
The municipality supports or provides composting.
Answer:
A. The municipality provides curbside brush and leaves collection for at least 10 weeks in the fall.
A. The municipality provides curbside brush and leaves collection for at least 10 weeks in the fall.
Notes:
Question:
The municipality has a recycling program that includes the following: Select all that apply.
The municipality has a recycling program that includes the following: Select all that apply.
Answer:
A. updated information on the website or in newsletters about recycling, guidelines for what is accepted, and recommendations for reducing, reusing, and repairing. - B. The municipality uses hang tags or sends notices to raise awareness on improving recycling quality. (documentation required) - C. The municipality provides free or very low cost recycling bins to improve the quality of the recycling stream. - D. The program includes curbside collection or a permanent drop off point for hard to recycle items and/or electronics.
A. updated information on the website or in newsletters about recycling, guidelines for what is accepted, and recommendations for reducing, reusing, and repairing. - B. The municipality uses hang tags or sends notices to raise awareness on improving recycling quality. (documentation required) - C. The municipality provides free or very low cost recycling bins to improve the quality of the recycling stream. - D. The program includes curbside collection or a permanent drop off point for hard to recycle items and/or electronics.
Notes:
Question:
The municipality collects the following types of recyclable materials at the curb. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
The municipality collects the following types of recyclable materials at the curb. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
Answer:
A. Aluminum - C. MIxed fibers (paper or cardboard) - D. Glass - E. Plastics HDPE and PETE (#'s 1 and 2) - F. Plastics - Mixed Plastics (#'s 3 thru 7 - please check this if you collect any of these)
A. Aluminum - C. MIxed fibers (paper or cardboard) - D. Glass - E. Plastics HDPE and PETE (#'s 1 and 2) - F. Plastics - Mixed Plastics (#'s 3 thru 7 - please check this if you collect any of these)
Notes:
Question:
The municipality collects or contracts for recycling collection at the curb.
The municipality collects or contracts for recycling collection at the curb.
Answer:
A. Yes, Required for Gold and Platinum.
A. Yes, Required for Gold and Platinum.
Notes:
Question:
The municipality contracts for residential solid waste and recycling collection as opposed to individual home owners contracting for the same.
The municipality contracts for residential solid waste and recycling collection as opposed to individual home owners contracting for the same.
Answer:
A. Yes
A. Yes
Notes:
Question:
What community-wide waste and recycling data does your municipality collect on an annual basis? Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options. (documentation required)
What community-wide waste and recycling data does your municipality collect on an annual basis? Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options. (documentation required)
Answer:
A. Residential Collection - total waste sent to landfill or incinerator - B. Residential Collection - total recycling sent to Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) or equivalent - C. Residential Collection - total yard waste collected for composting - F. Commercial Collection - total recycling collected - H. Residential recycling quality or contamination (what percentage of recyclable material sent to MRF is diverted to landfill/incinerator)
A. Residential Collection - total waste sent to landfill or incinerator - B. Residential Collection - total recycling sent to Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) or equivalent - C. Residential Collection - total yard waste collected for composting - F. Commercial Collection - total recycling collected - H. Residential recycling quality or contamination (what percentage of recyclable material sent to MRF is diverted to landfill/incinerator)
Notes:
Resiliency Planning
Question:
The community has conducted emergency communications planning and/or has adopted a reverse 911 system. This can be part of disaster preparedness process. Select all that apply.
The community has conducted emergency communications planning and/or has adopted a reverse 911 system. This can be part of disaster preparedness process. Select all that apply.
Answer:
A. Yes the community has conducted emergency communications planning. - B. The community uses a reverse 911 system.
A. Yes the community has conducted emergency communications planning. - B. The community uses a reverse 911 system.
Notes:
Question:
The community has identified vulnerable populations in the community to prepare for emergencies and created a registry to check in on those citizens in the case of an emergency. Select all that apply.
The community has identified vulnerable populations in the community to prepare for emergencies and created a registry to check in on those citizens in the case of an emergency. Select all that apply.
Answer:
B. The community publicizes the ability to sign up for the registry on the municipal website or communications. (documentation required)
B. The community publicizes the ability to sign up for the registry on the municipal website or communications. (documentation required)
Notes:
https://www.upperchi.org/departments/administration/delco-alert-emergency-notification-system/?highlight=delco%20alert
https://www.upperchi.org/departments/administration/delco-alert-emergency-notification-system/?highlight=delco%20alert
Sustainability Program
Question:
There is ongoing professional development for municipal personnel and officials that includes participating in programs with (at a minimum of once per year) Pennsylvania Municipal League, Local Government Academy, PA DCED or other Pennsylvania municipal training association programs.
There is ongoing professional development for municipal personnel and officials that includes participating in programs with (at a minimum of once per year) Pennsylvania Municipal League, Local Government Academy, PA DCED or other Pennsylvania municipal training association programs.
Answer:
A. Yes, professional development has occured at a minimum of once per year for all or most staff and/or elected officials.
A. Yes, professional development has occured at a minimum of once per year for all or most staff and/or elected officials.
Notes:
Question:
The municipality has passed a resolution to affirm (or reaffirm) participation in the Sustainable Pennsylvania Community Certification Program. Required for Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.
The municipality has passed a resolution to affirm (or reaffirm) participation in the Sustainable Pennsylvania Community Certification Program. Required for Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.
Answer:
A. Yes. Required for Silver, Gold, and Platinum. (documentation required)
A. Yes. Required for Silver, Gold, and Platinum. (documentation required)
Notes:
Health and Wellness
Question:
The municipality considers and promotes health and wellness. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
The municipality considers and promotes health and wellness. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
Answer:
A. The municipality provides access to recreational opportunities and amenities to promote active and healthy lifestyles (this can include ecotourism, river/creek access for fishing, hiking and walking trails with programming, etc.). - B. The municipality runs, supports, and/or promotes, exercise and/or wellness programs for all age groups.
A. The municipality provides access to recreational opportunities and amenities to promote active and healthy lifestyles (this can include ecotourism, river/creek access for fishing, hiking and walking trails with programming, etc.). - B. The municipality runs, supports, and/or promotes, exercise and/or wellness programs for all age groups.
Notes:
Question:
The municipality supports local food access by assessing access, planning, and/or supporting programs or policies that increase local food access. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
The municipality supports local food access by assessing access, planning, and/or supporting programs or policies that increase local food access. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
Answer:
D. The municipality supports local farmers markets or food stands in the community.
D. The municipality supports local farmers markets or food stands in the community.
Notes:
Water Conservation
Question:
The municipality or municipal authority supports or promotes a program for residents, institutions, and/or businesses to conserve water.
The municipality or municipal authority supports or promotes a program for residents, institutions, and/or businesses to conserve water.
Answer:
A. Yes
A. Yes
Notes:
Question:
The municipal water, sewer authority, and/or water supplier has created and adopted a pricing structure designed to conserve water usage, where the price per unit increases with volume of water consumed or conveyed. (no volume discounts)
The municipal water, sewer authority, and/or water supplier has created and adopted a pricing structure designed to conserve water usage, where the price per unit increases with volume of water consumed or conveyed. (no volume discounts)
Answer:
A. Yes
A. Yes
Notes:
Water Planning and Protection
Question:
The municipality has developed and implemented a Stormwater Management Plan of Best Management Practices including all 6 minimum control measures, including Public Education and Outreach, Public Participation, Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination, Construction Site Runoff Control, Post Construction Runoff Control, and Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping, to meet the MS4 requirements.
The municipality has developed and implemented a Stormwater Management Plan of Best Management Practices including all 6 minimum control measures, including Public Education and Outreach, Public Participation, Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination, Construction Site Runoff Control, Post Construction Runoff Control, and Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping, to meet the MS4 requirements.
Answer:
A. Yes
A. Yes
Notes:
Question:
The municipality is actively working to restore wetlands and riparian areas, expand or revise current minimum riparian buffer zones, and/or implement living shoreline programs to provide natural flood abatement, breeding habitat, and improved stream conditions.
The municipality is actively working to restore wetlands and riparian areas, expand or revise current minimum riparian buffer zones, and/or implement living shoreline programs to provide natural flood abatement, breeding habitat, and improved stream conditions.
Answer:
A. Yes (documentation required)
A. Yes (documentation required)
Notes:
Question:
The municipality has an ordinance aimed to incentivize or mandate the protection and/or restoration of riparian buffers, wetlands, and waterways.
The municipality has an ordinance aimed to incentivize or mandate the protection and/or restoration of riparian buffers, wetlands, and waterways.
Answer:
A. Yes (documentation required)
A. Yes (documentation required)
Notes:
We have 6 other projects that have been previously completed. We have the two attached starting this August.
We have 6 other projects that have been previously completed. We have the two attached starting this August.
Question:
The comprehensive plan (or separate water-specific plans that are currently in use - such as a One Water plan or a flood mitigation plan) includes recommendations for: Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
The comprehensive plan (or separate water-specific plans that are currently in use - such as a One Water plan or a flood mitigation plan) includes recommendations for: Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
Answer:
A. encouraging low impact development or enhanced stormwater management techniques to manage stormwater runoff and onsite stormwater infiltration where geologically effective. - B. protecting and preserving wetlands, waterways/riparian buffers. - C. reclaiming developed land where flooding has occurred regularly and/or at increasing intervals and is contributing to significant flooding elsewhere in the watershed. - D. protecting homes and properties where vulnerable populations are at significant risk of flooding. - E. One or more of the above items are benchmarked and progress towards the goal is tracked and reported on.
A. encouraging low impact development or enhanced stormwater management techniques to manage stormwater runoff and onsite stormwater infiltration where geologically effective. - B. protecting and preserving wetlands, waterways/riparian buffers. - C. reclaiming developed land where flooding has occurred regularly and/or at increasing intervals and is contributing to significant flooding elsewhere in the watershed. - D. protecting homes and properties where vulnerable populations are at significant risk of flooding. - E. One or more of the above items are benchmarked and progress towards the goal is tracked and reported on.
Notes:
Planning and Zoning
Question:
The municipality has up-to-date zoning and related ordinances that reflect the objectives of the comprehensive plan. Select all that apply.
The municipality has up-to-date zoning and related ordinances that reflect the objectives of the comprehensive plan. Select all that apply.
Answer:
A. The municipal zoning ordinance was amended to achieve the goals of the most recent comp plan (flexibility will be granted where the comp plan was passed less than 24 months prior). - B. The municipality has an up-to-date subdivision and land development ordinance (SALDO) that reflects the objectives of the comprehensive plan. - C. The municipality has passed other ordinances or policies to support or incentivize the objectives of the comprehensive plan.
A. The municipal zoning ordinance was amended to achieve the goals of the most recent comp plan (flexibility will be granted where the comp plan was passed less than 24 months prior). - B. The municipality has an up-to-date subdivision and land development ordinance (SALDO) that reflects the objectives of the comprehensive plan. - C. The municipality has passed other ordinances or policies to support or incentivize the objectives of the comprehensive plan.
Notes:
Question:
The municipality regularly updates and effectively uses their comprehensive land use plan as a community engagement process and a guiding document. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
The municipality regularly updates and effectively uses their comprehensive land use plan as a community engagement process and a guiding document. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
Answer:
A. The comprehensive plan had a process for significant stakeholder engagement and included a plan with specific steps for reaching vulnerable and/or marginalized community members. (documentation required) - B. The comp plan includes implementable steps with specific timelines - C. The comp plan includes instructions for who is responsible for the implementable steps. - D. The comp plan includes mechanisms or guidelines for reporting progress towards those steps to the public and/or for making adjustments. - E. The municipal comprehensive plan is multi municipal.
A. The comprehensive plan had a process for significant stakeholder engagement and included a plan with specific steps for reaching vulnerable and/or marginalized community members. (documentation required) - B. The comp plan includes implementable steps with specific timelines - C. The comp plan includes instructions for who is responsible for the implementable steps. - D. The comp plan includes mechanisms or guidelines for reporting progress towards those steps to the public and/or for making adjustments. - E. The municipal comprehensive plan is multi municipal.
Notes:
Equitable Housing
Question:
The zoning ordinance provides for or accommodates a full range of housing opportunities.
The zoning ordinance provides for or accommodates a full range of housing opportunities.
Answer:
B. The municipality allows for four or five different types of housing. (documentation required)
B. The municipality allows for four or five different types of housing. (documentation required)
Notes:
https://ecode360.com/30871532
https://ecode360.com/30871532
Question:
An assessment has been completed analyzing the need for affordable/equitable housing in the community and region. It can be a part of the community's comprehensive planning process or completed by a community organization with municipal support. It is important that the assessment considers the region as a whole, because many communities have been segregated from the issues of the region they exist within. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
An assessment has been completed analyzing the need for affordable/equitable housing in the community and region. It can be a part of the community's comprehensive planning process or completed by a community organization with municipal support. It is important that the assessment considers the region as a whole, because many communities have been segregated from the issues of the region they exist within. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
Answer:
C. The assessment included considerations for access to transportation (including walkability and transit). - D. The assessment included considerations for fresh food and/or passive and active recreational amenities.
C. The assessment included considerations for access to transportation (including walkability and transit). - D. The assessment included considerations for fresh food and/or passive and active recreational amenities.
Notes:
Human Scale Development
Question:
The zoning and SALDO ordinances promote walkable, mixed use development. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
The zoning and SALDO ordinances promote walkable, mixed use development. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
Answer:
A. The zoning ordinance, SALDO, or district overlays have districts that permit retail, officies, commercial services, housing, and civic uses in the same district. (documentation required)
A. The zoning ordinance, SALDO, or district overlays have districts that permit retail, officies, commercial services, housing, and civic uses in the same district. (documentation required)
Notes:
https://ecode360.com/30871538
https://ecode360.com/30871538
Question:
The comprehensive plan encourages walkable/mixed use development. Select all that apply.
The comprehensive plan encourages walkable/mixed use development. Select all that apply.
Answer:
A. The plan calls for retail, offices, commercial services, housing, and civic uses to exist in same district. - B. The plan calls for publicly accessible areas within walkable/mixed use neighborhoods.
A. The plan calls for retail, offices, commercial services, housing, and civic uses to exist in same district. - B. The plan calls for publicly accessible areas within walkable/mixed use neighborhoods.
Notes:
Question:
The municipality is focused on maintaining, improving, or redeveloping areas as opposed to opening up new land for development and this is reflected in community planning documents and ordinances. Select all that apply.
The municipality is focused on maintaining, improving, or redeveloping areas as opposed to opening up new land for development and this is reflected in community planning documents and ordinances. Select all that apply.
Answer:
A. The municipal comp plan calls for limiting the expansion of land development to specific areas while protecting undeveloped land.
A. The municipal comp plan calls for limiting the expansion of land development to specific areas while protecting undeveloped land.
Notes:
Community Wide Greenhouse Gas Mitigation
Question:
The municipality has implemented and is actively enforcing Pennsylvania's energy-efficiency building codes. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
The municipality has implemented and is actively enforcing Pennsylvania's energy-efficiency building codes. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
Answer:
A. The municipality has conducted an assessment of how well Pennsylvania's currently adopted energy-efficiency building codes are being implemented and enforced. Must have occurred after Oct 1, 2018 when the 2015 IBC codes were adopted. - B. Municipal code officials have received training on the energy-efficiency codes.
A. The municipality has conducted an assessment of how well Pennsylvania's currently adopted energy-efficiency building codes are being implemented and enforced. Must have occurred after Oct 1, 2018 when the 2015 IBC codes were adopted. - B. Municipal code officials have received training on the energy-efficiency codes.
Notes:
Community Revitalization
Question:
The municipality is actively working to remediate blighted, vacant, and/or abandoned buildings and/or brownfields in their community. Select all that apply.
The municipality is actively working to remediate blighted, vacant, and/or abandoned buildings and/or brownfields in their community. Select all that apply.
Answer:
B. The municipality maintains a current inventory of vacant, abandoned, and/or blighted properties. (documentation required)
B. The municipality maintains a current inventory of vacant, abandoned, and/or blighted properties. (documentation required)
Notes:
Question:
A Historic Review Commission is active.
A Historic Review Commission is active.
Answer:
A. Yes
A. Yes
Notes:
Question:
A demolition ordinance has been adopted that includes provisions to ensure the mitigation of harmful pollutants including lead and asbestos.
A demolition ordinance has been adopted that includes provisions to ensure the mitigation of harmful pollutants including lead and asbestos.
Answer:
A. Yes (documentation required)
A. Yes (documentation required)
Notes:
https://ecode360.com/15644675
https://ecode360.com/15644675
Question:
The municipality operates a rental inspection program for all non-owner occupied buildings. Select all that apply.
The municipality operates a rental inspection program for all non-owner occupied buildings. Select all that apply.
Answer:
A. The municipality manages a rental inspection program. (documentation required)
A. The municipality manages a rental inspection program. (documentation required)
Notes:
https://ecode360.com/32993475
https://ecode360.com/32993475
Question:
The municipality has elected to administer and enforce Pennsylvania's Uniform Construction Code (UCC) and the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC). Select all that apply.
The municipality has elected to administer and enforce Pennsylvania's Uniform Construction Code (UCC) and the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC). Select all that apply.
Answer:
A. The municipality administers the UCC. - B. The municipality administers the IMPC.
A. The municipality administers the UCC. - B. The municipality administers the IMPC.
Notes:
Organization Details
Question:
On your municipality's profile page on the Sustainable PA website, we ask that each community share one action or project related to sustainability which the community would like to highlight. Please provide a description of what you would like to highlight in the comments section below. Please click on the "More Info" button to see how it will look on a community profile.
On your municipality's profile page on the Sustainable PA website, we ask that each community share one action or project related to sustainability which the community would like to highlight. Please provide a description of what you would like to highlight in the comments section below. Please click on the "More Info" button to see how it will look on a community profile.
Answer:
Below is our highlight
Below is our highlight
Notes:
Highlighted Sustainability Project: Trash Route Rebalancing Upper Chichester Township recently implemented a Trash Route Rebalancing Project to support our sustainability goals through smarter waste collection. Partnering with SCS Engineers, we redesigned our routes to reduce fuel use, emissions, and collection daysmoving from five days of trash collection to three, and expanding recycling from biweekly to weekly service on just two days. This more efficient system reduces vehicle miles traveled and supports higher recycling participation, all without increasing staffing or equipment. The project reflects our commitment to environmentally responsible operations and long-term resource efficiency.
Highlighted Sustainability Project: Trash Route Rebalancing Upper Chichester Township recently implemented a Trash Route Rebalancing Project to support our sustainability goals through smarter waste collection. Partnering with SCS Engineers, we redesigned our routes to reduce fuel use, emissions, and collection daysmoving from five days of trash collection to three, and expanding recycling from biweekly to weekly service on just two days. This more efficient system reduces vehicle miles traveled and supports higher recycling participation, all without increasing staffing or equipment. The project reflects our commitment to environmentally responsible operations and long-term resource efficiency.
Question:
On our Sustainable PA website, we will create a profile recognizing your community when you earn certification. Please provide a quote from an elected official or staff member on the value of sustainability in your community. Please see the More Info button for where it will be used. Please provide the name and title/position of the person who the quote should be attributed to in the first text box below, and provide the quote in the user comments box below that.
On our Sustainable PA website, we will create a profile recognizing your community when you earn certification. Please provide a quote from an elected official or staff member on the value of sustainability in your community. Please see the More Info button for where it will be used. Please provide the name and title/position of the person who the quote should be attributed to in the first text box below, and provide the quote in the user comments box below that.
Answer:
Nicole Whitaker, President, Upper Chichester Township Board of Commissioners
Nicole Whitaker, President, Upper Chichester Township Board of Commissioners
Notes:
"In Upper Chichester Township, we recognize that sustainability isn't just an environmental goalit's a commitment to our community's future prosperity. Our sustainability objectives focus on conserving natural resources, creating economic benefits through efficiency and innovation, and ensuring our township remains vibrant, resilient, and thriving for generations to come. Our initiatives reflect our dedication to responsible governance and our belief that environmental stewardship and community well-being go hand in hand." - Nicole Whitaker, President, Upper Chichester Township Board of Commissioners
"In Upper Chichester Township, we recognize that sustainability isn't just an environmental goalit's a commitment to our community's future prosperity. Our sustainability objectives focus on conserving natural resources, creating economic benefits through efficiency and innovation, and ensuring our township remains vibrant, resilient, and thriving for generations to come. Our initiatives reflect our dedication to responsible governance and our belief that environmental stewardship and community well-being go hand in hand." - Nicole Whitaker, President, Upper Chichester Township Board of Commissioners
Land Conservation Management
Question:
The municipality has written policies and/or incentives to conserve environmentally and ecologically sensitive places, including: (documentation required) Select all that apply.
The municipality has written policies and/or incentives to conserve environmentally and ecologically sensitive places, including: (documentation required) Select all that apply.
Answer:
A. Slopes over 25% and/or slide prone soils and geology
A. Slopes over 25% and/or slide prone soils and geology
Notes:
Question:
Municipal land use ordinances protect or expand valuable green space and ecologically important assets including: Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
Municipal land use ordinances protect or expand valuable green space and ecologically important assets including: Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
Answer:
A. improving parks/recreation, publicly accessible open space with greenways designated to connect parks and trails (documentation required)
A. improving parks/recreation, publicly accessible open space with greenways designated to connect parks and trails (documentation required)
Notes:
Question:
The municipal comprehensive plan includes recommendations: Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options. (documentation required)
The municipal comprehensive plan includes recommendations: Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options. (documentation required)
Answer:
A. for protecting woodlands and increasing tree cover in the municipality. - B. for preserving environmentally sensitive and/or ecologically significant areas. - C. for protecting productive agricultural areas. - D. for promoting community gardens and infill green space. - E. for expanding and/or improving parks, recreational spaces, and open space. - F. connecting parks and open with greenways and trails. - G. to expand park access so a majority of residents are within a walkable distance to a park. (must be under 1 mile - suggest 1/2 mile and have a goal of at least 90% of population) - H. to conserve and enhance areas where important wildlife and fish habitats exist and promote connectivity to allow species to migrate to suitable habitat (e.g., using land exchanges, conservation easements, leases; by removing barriers, etc.).
A. for protecting woodlands and increasing tree cover in the municipality. - B. for preserving environmentally sensitive and/or ecologically significant areas. - C. for protecting productive agricultural areas. - D. for promoting community gardens and infill green space. - E. for expanding and/or improving parks, recreational spaces, and open space. - F. connecting parks and open with greenways and trails. - G. to expand park access so a majority of residents are within a walkable distance to a park. (must be under 1 mile - suggest 1/2 mile and have a goal of at least 90% of population) - H. to conserve and enhance areas where important wildlife and fish habitats exist and promote connectivity to allow species to migrate to suitable habitat (e.g., using land exchanges, conservation easements, leases; by removing barriers, etc.).
Notes:
Parks and Habitat Programs
Question:
Sustainable landscape maintenance practices are used for all parks and municipal grounds. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
Sustainable landscape maintenance practices are used for all parks and municipal grounds. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
Answer:
F. The municipality limits water use by planting appropriate native species and timing waterings to conserve water.
F. The municipality limits water use by planting appropriate native species and timing waterings to conserve water.
Notes:
Question:
The municipality has been actively building out green space and parks to ensure access to all citizens. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
The municipality has been actively building out green space and parks to ensure access to all citizens. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
Answer:
A. The municipality has built or is in the process of building trail or walkable connections to all major parks, green spaces, and significant community amenities (grocery stores, community centers, libraries, etc...). (documentation required) - B. The municipality maintains or is currently building out the municipal park system such that everyone in the community is a walkable distance (less than .5 miles) away from a publically accessible park or green space. Doesn't apply to rural communities. - C. Parks that have been built or redesigned in the last 10 years included a robust public input process. - D. All municipal parks have been reviewed and redesigned to ensure access to those of all abilities.
A. The municipality has built or is in the process of building trail or walkable connections to all major parks, green spaces, and significant community amenities (grocery stores, community centers, libraries, etc...). (documentation required) - B. The municipality maintains or is currently building out the municipal park system such that everyone in the community is a walkable distance (less than .5 miles) away from a publically accessible park or green space. Doesn't apply to rural communities. - C. Parks that have been built or redesigned in the last 10 years included a robust public input process. - D. All municipal parks have been reviewed and redesigned to ensure access to those of all abilities.
Notes:
Transportation Planning
Question:
Community Leaders are actively involved with regional planning discussions/processes around improved transit and active transportation options. Select all that apply.
Community Leaders are actively involved with regional planning discussions/processes around improved transit and active transportation options. Select all that apply.
Answer:
A. Municipal leaders actively attend and support regional transportation planning initiatives or collaborations, including for example with a Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), County, Council of Government (COG) or other regional organization. - B. The regional organization that the municipality is involved with, has created a transit or active transportation plan.
A. Municipal leaders actively attend and support regional transportation planning initiatives or collaborations, including for example with a Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), County, Council of Government (COG) or other regional organization. - B. The regional organization that the municipality is involved with, has created a transit or active transportation plan.
Notes:
Question:
The comprehensive plan includes transportation-related recommendations and/or goals related to climate change, equitable access, and improving community health outcomes. Those transportation-related recommendations or goals include: (documentation required) Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
The comprehensive plan includes transportation-related recommendations and/or goals related to climate change, equitable access, and improving community health outcomes. Those transportation-related recommendations or goals include: (documentation required) Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
Answer:
B. Improving overall safety outcomes (vision zero) - C. Improving community health outcomes through active transportation - D. increasing equitable access to all modes of transportation - F. Increasing bicycle, transit, and pedestrian commuting
B. Improving overall safety outcomes (vision zero) - C. Improving community health outcomes through active transportation - D. increasing equitable access to all modes of transportation - F. Increasing bicycle, transit, and pedestrian commuting
Notes:
Mobility Options
Question:
The municipality is developing and maintaining residential multimodal infrastructure. Select all that apply.
The municipality is developing and maintaining residential multimodal infrastructure. Select all that apply.
Answer:
A. The municipality is developing and maintaining bicycling and walking trails that extend and connect the community's sidewalks, key community assets/amenities, and park systems.
A. The municipality is developing and maintaining bicycling and walking trails that extend and connect the community's sidewalks, key community assets/amenities, and park systems.
Notes:
Question:
The municipality has passed transit policies or built transit-related infrastructure. Select all that apply.
The municipality has passed transit policies or built transit-related infrastructure. Select all that apply.
Answer:
B. The municipality has implemented projects to improve first-/last-mile connections for transit riders by installing and/or updating small-scale infrastructure. (documentation required) - C. Information is collected, shared, and/or work is done in collaboration with transit authority.
B. The municipality has implemented projects to improve first-/last-mile connections for transit riders by installing and/or updating small-scale infrastructure. (documentation required) - C. Information is collected, shared, and/or work is done in collaboration with transit authority.
Notes:
Question:
The municipality has created and is implementing plans and policies to improve bicycle infrastructure and increase bicycle usage. Select all that apply.
The municipality has created and is implementing plans and policies to improve bicycle infrastructure and increase bicycle usage. Select all that apply.
Answer:
F. Police are trained on the rights and responsibilities of bicyclists and state law on passing bicycles.
F. Police are trained on the rights and responsibilities of bicyclists and state law on passing bicycles.
Notes:
Energy Use, Conservation and Green Building
Municipal Energy Use
Question:
Municipality has retrofitted or replaced at least 90% of street lights, outdoor lighting, and traffic signals with LED bulbs. Select all that apply.
Municipality has retrofitted or replaced at least 90% of street lights, outdoor lighting, and traffic signals with LED bulbs. Select all that apply.
Answer:
B. Yes (documentation required)
B. Yes (documentation required)
Notes:
Governance and Community Engagement
Public Safety
Question:
The police chief or other public safety officers offer a regular public forum (quarterly at the minimum) providing an opportunity for the public to discuss community concerns with police commanders. For example: 'Coffee with Chief' or regular neighborhood community meetings.
The police chief or other public safety officers offer a regular public forum (quarterly at the minimum) providing an opportunity for the public to discuss community concerns with police commanders. For example: 'Coffee with Chief' or regular neighborhood community meetings.
Answer:
A. Yes
A. Yes
Notes:
Question:
The municipality has assessed the state of the opioid epidemic or drug related incidences in their community, created a response plan, and has policies in place to mitigate the problem. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
The municipality has assessed the state of the opioid epidemic or drug related incidences in their community, created a response plan, and has policies in place to mitigate the problem. Select all that apply. Please note: This question limits maximum points making it possible to earn 100% credit without choosing all answer options.
Answer:
A. The community has assessed the state of the opioid epidemic in their community or has done so in partnership with a larger regional entity (COG, County, Health Dept., etc.). (1) - D. The municipality has Narcan and information for recovery services available for the general public. - E. The municipality has a policy where police officers are encouraged to exercise discretionary authority at point of contact to divert individuals to a community-based, harm-reduction intervention for law violations driven by unmet behavioral health need - F. The municipality has hired or works with an agency to provide a social worker to accompany law enforcement officers for certain types of calls.
A. The community has assessed the state of the opioid epidemic in their community or has done so in partnership with a larger regional entity (COG, County, Health Dept., etc.). (1) - D. The municipality has Narcan and information for recovery services available for the general public. - E. The municipality has a policy where police officers are encouraged to exercise discretionary authority at point of contact to divert individuals to a community-based, harm-reduction intervention for law violations driven by unmet behavioral health need - F. The municipality has hired or works with an agency to provide a social worker to accompany law enforcement officers for certain types of calls.
Notes:
Question:
The municipality has evaluated the efficacy of the community's emergency preparedness systems and has a plan for maintenance or improvement. Select all that apply.
The municipality has evaluated the efficacy of the community's emergency preparedness systems and has a plan for maintenance or improvement. Select all that apply.
Answer:
A. The municipality has assessed the efficacy of the community's emergency preparedness systems.
A. The municipality has assessed the efficacy of the community's emergency preparedness systems.
Notes: