Sally Elmiger is Ann Arbor Township's natural features consultant.  She evaluates development proposals in the context of several ordinances that protect natural features and draws on her training as a landscape architect to suggest solutions that protect those features.  A developer recently proposed building ball fields within a high-quality native woodland, featuring mature trees and a significant, native ground layer.  They accepted Sally's recommendation that they instead use a portion of the property that is already disturbed and permeated with invasive, non-native species, preserving the woodland.

The deadline to apply for Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grants has been extended to August 10, but many communities tell us that they are stymied by the complicated, onerous federal application process.  For entitlement communities who follow the process correctly, this is free money to help you identify and implement high-value energy reduction activities. We have mastered the Fedconnect system and submitted complete applications on behalf of several cities including Troy, Midland and St. Clair Shores.  Once the grant is approved, our proprietary Rapid Energy Assessment Process (REAP) will accurately identify the high-value energy-saving measures that also fit the stringent EECBG goals. Our process is a grant-eligible activity, and can be paid for with a portion of the award. There would be no out-of-pocket costs to you. Our REAP team includes LEED Accredited Professionals, code officials, community planners, economic development specialists, low-impact development experts and experienced grant writers.  Contact Zak Branigan, AICP, LEED AP for more information.

City of Rochester plans
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