Comments invited thru Nov. 13 on draft Climate Action Plan 2.0

[Julia Anne Malakie]

Hello WN residents,

Here is another plan you may want to comment on (separate from Walk Ride Roll) -- the draft of the city's next Climate Action Plan. See this page:

https://www.newtonma.gov/government/climate-and-sustainability/climate-action-plan

for links to the current 2020-2025 plan, the draft new plan, the online comment form or email address to use, and slides from, and video link to, a Nov. 3 public meeting.

Here, courtesy of Chris Pitts of the Waban Area Council, is a slightly tweaked AI summary:

Short take on Newton’s Climate Action Plan 2.0 (2026–2030): the City will
push faster building electrification, tougher energy codes/standards for
major projects, more EV/bike/walk infrastructure, deeper
waste-reduction/composting, and stronger flood/heat resilience—while
expanding homeowner education and incentives.
What will impact existing homeowners the most:
 
*Major renovations must be all-electric.* Newton’s Electrification
Ordinance requires electricity (no fossil fuels) for heating/cooling,
cooking, clothes drying, and electric or solar thermal for hot water in *new
construction and major renovations*. Expect this to shape equipment
choices (heat pumps, induction, electric dryers) when you undertake big
projects.

*Stricter energy codes for new buildings and additions.* The Stretch &
Specialized energy codes increase efficiency requirements for all new
buildings and new construction work, influencing insulation, windows,
air-sealing, and performance targets.

*Tree removal on private property needs a permit.* The Tree Preservation
Ordinance continues: removing certain trees requires a permit and arborist
engagement, with replacement or payment in lieu. Plan ahead for yard work
and additions.

*Stormwater rules when you redevelop.* The City will keep rolling out
its Stormwater Management Ordinance for *new and redevelopment projects
on private properties*, affecting drainage design, grading, and
permeable surfaces during home projects.

*Recycling is mandatory for all properties.* Newton’s recycling mandate
requires *all properties* (including homes) to separate recyclables;
your hauler must provide recycling service or you must show you have it.

*More support—and nudges—for home electrification.* The Plan doubles
down on Mass Save assessments, insulation/air-sealing, and switching at
end-of-life to heat pumps, induction, and electric dryers—framed as the
highest-leverage homeowner actions.

*Composting options and waste-reduction programs expand.* Expect
continued promotion of curbside composting (Black Earth), free drop-off
bins, and reuse/repair programs (Library of Things, Swap Shop, Fix-It
Clinics). Participation isn’t mandated, but momentum (and social norms) are
growing.

*Neighborhood resilience expectations.* Guidance emphasizes basement
waterproofing, sump pumps (with backup power), elevating mechanicals,
improving grading/gutters, and planting shade/yard trees—practical steps
homeowners are encouraged to take as heavy-rain and heat events increase.

*More EV charging and active-transportation infrastructure nearby.*
While not a mandate on you, adding public chargers, sidewalks,
bike/curb-ramp upgrades, and transit advocacy will shape mobility choices
and neighborhood streetscapes.

[This is Julia again, not AI.] After the public comment period, the draft Climate Action Plan will go to the Zoning & Planning Committee and then the full City Council. Typically with these plans, there is a vote by City Council to incorporate the plan into the Comprehensive Plan. It's unclear whether this would be voted on in December or in the next term.

I would welcome feedback, too, so besides using the online form or emailing comments to Climate...@newtonma.gov you may also cc me at jmal...@newtonma.gov or all councilors at cityc...@newtonma.gov -- and/or share thoughts in this thread.

Regards,

Julia Malakie

Ward 3 Councilor