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1. If the city is only responsible for 1.4% of the GHG, how will you mandate residential and commercial property owners to meet the goal of zero by 2050?

This is a topic for the Energy & Buildings focus workgroup to tackle.  Some peer cities mandate and some incentivize energy waste reduction.  Also keep in mind that if the utility companies reach their net-zero goals, that makes our goal easier to attain.

2. Can the composting that is available for the municipal buildings be offered to Royal Oak businesses?

Absolutely.  The city uses Midtown Composting company which services municipal, business, and residential customers. Also, there are other companies that offer similar services.

3. I would want to make sure we consider the implications on housing affordability because many of the goals are noble but if we create perfect houses that 5% of the population can afford is that really

Great point. It's something to keep in mind going forward.  Although, there are many low-hanging fruit actions that building owners can take to reduce energy waste and save money. (including no-cost behavioral changes)  An energy efficiency education program for residential and commercial buildings seems like a great initiative to get us started!  

4. Considering how much commercials emissions contributed to the overall emissions inventory, how are businesses being involved in this planning?

We are engaging in one-on-one discussions and presenting to the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce to ask the commercial sector to join the energy and buildings focus workgroup or offer feedback in a different format.

5. What exactly are the commitments for the focus groups?

The workgroups will meet 4-5 times over the late summer/early fall.  Each group will create its own meeting schedule and location. (in-person or online remote meeting) 

The main task for the workgroups is for them to vet specific ideas and bring forward the best actions/goals for their respective focus topic, as recommendations for inclusion in the sustainability plan.  Stay tuned for the workgroup kick-off information.

6. How do we plan to balance our goals with the economics (cost) to the city’s residents?

This is a substantial consideration within the goals/actions development process.  Each focus workgroup will be tasked with vetting their respective topic ideas against several criteria, including affordability.

7. Will you be contacting us with focus group assignments?

Yes!  Everyone who filled out the Interest Form (linked on www.romi.gov/sustainability) or responded to the focus topic question during the live presentation (and left contact info) will be contacted.  If neither of those apply and you would like to partici[pate in a workgroup, fill out the form at: www.romi.gov/sustainability

8. Where and how often will the focus workgroups meet?

The workgroups will meet 4-5 times over the late summer/early fall.  Each group will create its own meeting schedule and location. (in-person or online remote meeting)  Stay tuned for the workgroup kick-off information.

9. How do I get a bigger recycling toter for residential use?

The city only offers one size of recycling toters (large bin on wheels).  If you need more recycling capacity, you can also put out your old recycle bin (18 gal. green bin wi/yellow lid) or purchase an additional 65 gal. toter for $50.  To purchase an additional toter, call DPS at 248-246-3300 or email at dps@romi.gov

10. So will there be updated iterations of the sustainability plan as technologies change?

Yes.  We anticpiate revisting the plan every few years to make sure our goals and actions are still relevant.