Why use a third-party rating system? Will this increase the cost of development?

Using a third-party rating system, such as LEED or Minnesota Green Communities, ensures that buildings are meeting sustainability requirements that are widely recognized as best practices. Doing so also clarifies liability and also allows for more certainty for the design team in knowing the policy requirements will be met. The cost for engaging the third-party rater is typically less than one percent of the cost of a project and when examined early in the design process, studies show that utilizing sustainability practices contributes 1 to 3% to total costs on average.

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1. What developments does this policy apply to?
2. Why use a third-party rating system? Will this increase the cost of development?
3. How does the city have the authority to do this policy? Is this a code?
4. How were the listed rating systems selected?
5. How does this policy relate to the ever-evolving rating system versions and energy code?
6. How many projects does this apply to?
7. What happens if a developer chooses not to the follow the policy? What happens if the project doesn’t certify under the chosen requirements?
8. Can the city reduce taxes for homeowners if they choose to do this type of building?
9. What if a project can’t meet some requirements due to factors that are outside of project control (for example Green Communities requires public transportation locations nearby)?
10. Is the city considering specific incentives for the sustainable building policy?