Implementation Actions
I 1- I 1: Organize for climate action implementation
I 1- 1 Establish a City "CARP Implementation Team" comprised of staff representatives from all key City departments.� The task of the CARP Implementation Team should be to meet regularly to support the initial and on-going prioritization and implementation of annual implementation actions and projects and to support reporting and progress updates.
I 1- 2 The Mayor's Office will work with Planning Department, City CARP Implementation Team and staff to develop annual implementation plans that specify a work sequence and timeline for implementation tasks, estimates necessary funding and staffing resources, and outlines an accountability process, to be presented to City Council for comment and approval coordinated with the city's annual budgeting process. Progress updates will be reported to the City Council on a semi-annual basis.
I 1- 3 Establish clear guidance and direction for the participation in and support of the CARP implementation actions by all City of Omaha departments.  Encourage continuing education of municipal staff relevant to environmental stewardship and CARP plan actions.
I 1- 4 Establish and implement a policy to review existing and future City of Omaha policy and ordinance changes as well as building and zoning variance requests against the goals, strategies, and actions of this Climate Action and Resilience Plan to ensure alignment of changes with this plan.
I 1- 5 Fund and support climate and sustainability staffing required to:
�Facilitate discussion among large users to reduce emissions through business and industrial strategies.
�Participate in technical resource programs as they are available through County, Regional, State, Federal, and non-profit provider partners.
�Support City of Omaha department managers and staff as they implement CARP actions within their service area or area of expertise.
�Convene the internal City of Omaha CARP Team.
�Ensure the maintenance of a City of Omaha Climate Action and Resilience Plan webpage (https://www.omacap.org/) supporting CARP resources for the community.
�Coordinate and organize volunteer groups and events.
�Engage City boards and commissions to ensure the CARP is integrated into their work plans.  
�Facilitate implementation progress reporting and accountability.
I 1- 6 Develop a CARP resources HUB on the City's Climate Action website (https://www.omacap.org/) with resources supporting CARP strategies and actions.  Information should include energy efficiency options for homes and businesses, including available energy programs, available incentives and rebates, where to purchase ENERGY STAR appliances, lawn alternatives, composting, soil restoration and other content as appropriate.
I 1- 7 Review Climate Action and Resilience Plan implementation progress and impacts on a regular basis (1-2 year cycle).  Review should include development of an updated community-wide and municipal operations GHG inventory.  Strategies and actions should be reviewed for implementation progress and for continued appropriateness.  Based on the review, adjust, add, and remove detailed CARP actions as appropriate.
I 2- I 2: Facilitate and collaborate with external support needed for climate action implementation.
I 2- 1 Continue and expand sustained outreach and engagement efforts that seek to build and maintain direct relationship with under-resourced, traditionally marginalized, and climate vulnerable communities within Omaha in support of CARP implementation. Organize regular community meetings focusing on different demographics and locations to address climate action concerns and build awareness of opportunities for the community.
I 2- 2 Create or identify an existing commission to act as a primary community member body to support the implementation of the CARP.  Commission�s annual work plans should include support of the implementation of the CARP; supporting City staff in any relevant departments; receiving updates on City CARP projects and progress; being provided with opportunity to comment on identification of annual CARP implementation priorities, projects, and budgets; and providing input on plan adjustments as needed.
I 2- 3 Establish a coordinated annual communication and education campaign supporting the communication and educational needs of each of the CARP sections.  Include the expansion of the City's Climate Action website (https://www.omacap.org/) for the creation and dissemination of climate-related information across all sectors.  The site must include metrics for measuring climate action and CARP goals, along with learning resources, and access to partner organizations working with the city to further and promote climate goals.
I 2- 4 Establish a roster of Climate Action Speaker's Bureau and Volunteers to support building community awareness of the CARP and support implementation actions.
I 2- 5 Establish jurisdictional partnerships that advance CARP strategies to advance and accelerate action.  This can include government entities like Douglas County, the State of Nebraska; utilities like M.U.D. and OPPD; institutions like Omaha Public Schools; Omaha businesses, and community groups.
Transportation and Land Use
TL 1- TL 1: Decrease citywide Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) by 10% by 2035.
TL 1- 1 Prioritize  transportation funding to support the implementation of the Active Mobility Plan, Vision Zero Action Plan, MetroNEXT, and other initiatives promoting safe, convenient walking, biking, and transit.
TL 1- 2 Based on ConnectOmaha: Active Mobility Plan, construct 100 centerline miles of new facilities for bicyclists and 100 centerline miles of new facilities for pedestrians by 2035.
TL 1- 3 Require universal accessibility in all street environments, including ADA ramps, traffic signal safety enhancements, accessible seating, shaded sidewalks, and protected bike paths and lanes.
TL 1- 4 Improve transit, walking, and bicycling connections to key regional transportation hubs, including Eppley Airfiled, the Amtrak station, the street car route, and any future hubs.
TL 2- TL 2: Increase public transit commuter ridership from 1.3% to 5% by 2035.
TL 2- 1 Partner with Metro Transit and others to develop and implement strategies to increase public transit ridership.
TL 2- 2 Advocate for the increase of dedicated funding for transit construction and operations to meet the goals of this plan.
TL 2- 3 Adopt and implement mixed-use zoning and transit-oriented development zoning on and in proximity to major transit corridors, areas of civic importance, and business/entertainment districts.
TL 2- 4 Support expanded public transit utilization through improvements to infrastructure including bus stops convenient to institutions, educational facilities, employment centers, retail areas, and event venues.
TL 3- TL 3: Increase average population per developed acre by 10% by 2035.
TL 3- 1 Eliminate parking minimums.  Institute parking maximums.  Prioritize universal accessibility.  
TL 3- 2 Include walkable mixed-use neighborhood goals and strategies in the revised Comprehensive Plan and revise zoning codes to favor walkable, connected neighborhoods in the existing built environment, near schools and new development, including form-based code along transportation corridors with goal of improved pedestrian experience such as frequent access points and greenspace as well as allowing more "missing middle" housing including accessory dwelling units, duplexes, and triplexes.
TL 3- 3 Create a development capacity study to identify and prioritize sites for infill and redevelopment.  Include annual evaluation and revision of the study.
TL 3- 4 Include a focus on equity, affordability, and environmental sustainability as a part of all Request for Proposals issued by the municipality and into the application and review of projects requesting TIF financing particularly in development/redevelopment proposals in areas identified within low/moderate income neighborhoods.
TL 4- TL 4:  Increase battery electric vehicle (BEV) use to 15% of vehicles on the road by 2035 and expand EV charging infrastructure to meet demand (from approximately 1,263 vehicles to 51,800 vehicles citywide).
TL 4- 1 Implement an "EV Ready" building ordinance that requires new developments to have wiring capacity to charge electric vehicles and establish minimum parking requirements for exclusive EV use.
TL 4- 2 Develop and implement an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Readiness Plan.  Plan should create citywide and city facility electric vehicle (EV) charging station study and masterplan to map existing infrastructure, determine the current and future demand for EV charging stations, and to identify options for increasing number of electric charging stations in public parking areas (e.g., schools, parks, libraries, City-owned parking garages, near City Hall) and in commercial and high-density residential areas.  Plan should explore EV charging technology options and consider approaches for increasing charging availability for residents of multi-family housing, particularly within low/moderate income neighborhoods. Plan should include implementation strategies to meet citywide EV charging demand and promote adoption of EVs within the community.
TL 4- 3 Develop and implement an electric bicycle (e-bike) incentive program.  Program details must prioritize early adoption in low/moderate income neighborhoods through a tiered qualification system.
TL 4- 4 Develop and promote a fleet operations conversion playbook, designed to assist public and private area fleet owners with fleet conversion from internal combustion to electric vehicles.  Include options for the leverage of funding and grant opportunities. Goal 20% electric fleets by 2035.  
TL 4- 5 Collaborate with partners to create of a funding and purchase plan for battery electric buses, paratransit vehicles, and other zero emission vehicles across all public transportation services. Include Metro, the school systems and other contracted transportation services. Find alternative companies who can provide other zero emissions options.
TL 5- TL 5: Establish viable renewable fuels in the economy and support infrastructure expansion and fuel adoption.  Achieve 30% diesel consumption replacement by 2035.  (Renewable fuels include hydrogen, renewable diesel, and bio diesel).
TL 5- 1 Conduct a Renewable Fuels Study to identify viable no/low emission fuel alternatives, sources, and markets in the region. Study must include an analysis of efficiency, land use impacts, supply chain, and economic potential for the regional economy.
TL 5- 2 Partner with the United States Department of Energy Hydrogen Hubs and other potential partners to identify opportunities for expanding hydrogen supply and utilization in the regional economy.
TL 6- TL 6: Achieve 50% conversion of gasoline vehicles and equipment within non-public safety use municipal fleet to EV's by 2030.  Achieve 100% conversion by 2035.
TL 6- 1 Conduct a municipal fleet inventory and EV transition Implementation plan.  Effort to identify opportunities for electrifying, right-sizing, and improving overall efficiency of vehicles to meet CAP Goals.  Include implementation recommendations to incorporate EV's through right-timing purchases with a planned vehicle-replacement schedule.
TL 6- 2 Adopt a policy requiring 100% of new light-duty City fleet vehicle purchases to be electric vehicles, or use no/low carbon alternative fuels by 2030, and 100% of new medium and heavy-duty city fleet vehicle purchases to be electric, use no/low carbon alternative fuels, or meet high-efficiency standards, by 2040.
TL 6- 3 Partner with OPPD or other appropriate entities to install appropriate charging infrastructure for city fleet, employee, and public vehicles.  
TL 7- TL 7: Achieve 20% conversion of municipal operations diesel fuel utilization to renewable fuels by 2030 and 100% by 2035.
TL 7- 1 Develop and implement a diesel free transition plan. Identify viable strategies to institute carbon-free diesel alternatives for City fleet operations.
TL 8- TL 8: Increase fuel efficiency of remaining municipal operations combustion engine fleet by 5% by 2030 and 10% by 2035.
TL 8- 1 Include eco-friendly driving guidelines in standard operating procedures in employee training and guidelines. Include a strict anti-idling policy.
TL 8- 2 Include PHEV and hybrid electric models in evaluations for all city vehicle purchases that are not capable of being full electric vehicles. Prioritize fuel efficiency in selection criteria for all vehicle purchases.
Buildings and Energy
BE 1- BE 1: Improve total citywide building energy efficiency (all sectors) by 10% for electricity and natural gas by 2035.
BE 1- 1 Adopt and maintain building codes to within one cycle of current best practices for energy efficiency.
BE 1- 2 Expand and promote existing whole house efficiency retrofit programs. Goal: 20% of owner occupied homes participating by 2035 (approximately 2,600 annually).  
BE 1- 3 Develop and promote a "building tune-up" program that assists property and business owners to identify cost-savings from energy efficiency upgrades.  Goal: 10% of commercial properties participating by 2035 (an estimated 150 businesses annually).
BE 1- 4 Develop meter-based incentive programs targeted at energy efficiency, specifically promoting programs for renters and households located in LMI neighborhoods.  
BE 1- 5 Develop a CARP resources HUB on the City's Climate Action website (https://www.omacap.org/) with resources about energy efficiency options for homes and businesses, including available energy programs, available incentives and rebates, and where to purchase ENERGY STAR appliances.
BE 1- 6 Expand promotion of low-cost energy savings measures, including smart thermostats, high-efficiency insulation, LED light conversion, and other emerging technologies.  
BE 1- 7 Partner with area educational institutions to prioritize energy efficiency and resiliency in construction and retrofits.   
BE 1- 8 Utilize existing and emerging technology to create a central hub for the distribution of home energy efficiency information and resources.
BE 1- 9 Establish a voluntary energy reporting program, or "Energy Benchmarking" for homes and commercial buildings, including existing private buildings, existing public buildings and new construction.
BE 2- BE 2:  Increase adoption of high performance building construction technology, and through regular updating of code achieving 1% Net Zero households and commercial properties citywide by 2035.  (Net Zero buildings are energy efficient buildings that produce as much energy on-site as they consume in a year)
BE 2- 1 Update zoning codes to identify and address alternative energy systems and their use on private property.  
BE 2- 2 Develop and promote pre-approved plans for alternative energy systems in residential and commercial construction/retrofits.  Incentivize the installation of alternative energy systems with the expedited review of pre-approved plans.  
BE 2- 3 Develop and promote a "green building" program and guide.  Include incentivization and resources for property owners and businesses to assist/off-set costs.
BE 2- 4 Require projects receiving city financial incentives or support to be built to meet or exceed an energy efficiency standard, like Sustainable Buildings 2030 (SB2030), LEED Gold, Enterprise Green Communities, the 24 National Green Building Standard ICC/ASHRAE 700, or an equivalent certification.
BE 2- 5 Develop competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) for effective and innovative Net Zero pilot projects.  Focus on "Net zero building in every neighborhood" to establish visibility of strategies within the community. RFPs should encourage redevelopment on infill properties and existing surface parking lots along development corridors.  RFP's should focus on equity, affordability, livability, and compliance/support of Climate Action and Resilience Plan goals.
BE 3- BE3: Achieve 15% total residential and commercial and industrial building "fuel switching" from on-site fossil fuel combustion to electrification or renewable fuels by 2035.
BE 3- 1 Develop and promote a group purchase campaign and marketing for no/low carbon HVAC systems.  Target retrofits in existing housing located in older neighborhoods.  Goal: 10% residential market conversion (2,000 households annually) and 10% commercial/industrial market conversion (an estimated 150 businesses annually) by 2035.
BE 3- 2 Explore the creation of a Green Hydrogen utility, an energy efficiency utility, or a stormwater utility.  
BE 3- 3 Develop and promote expansion of existing programs incentivizing the purchase, upgrade, and installation of energy efficient and no/low carbon heating and cooling systems and building electrification.  Specifically target initial expansion in existing, older housing stock and neighborhoods.
BE 4- BE 4: Increase customer owned and customer purchased renewable electricity to 20% of citywide building electric use by 2035 (10% on-site and 10% green source purchase in addition to percentage provided through standard grid electricity portfolio).
BE 4- 1 Coordinate and promote separate residential and commercial Solar Group Purchase campaigns to reduce the cost of adoption through volume purchasing power and district-level planning.  The commercial Solar Group purchase campaign to include/focus on properties identified in the "Possible High Solar-Performing" assessment effort.  Focus program details on low/moderate income households and small/emerging businesses for early adoption through incentives and/or cost sharing programs. Target 2,000 households and 150 businesses annually (approximately 4,000 KW hours).
BE 4- 2 Identify "Possible High Solar-Performing" commercial properties within the city and produce detailed solar feasibility assessments for each site.  Assessments to include potential solar generation and economic performance and return on investment estimates, information on incentives, financing and ownership models, and next step resources. Provide solar assessment reports to properties and conduct an informational workshop to assist building owners and businesses in understanding the assessments and next step potential.  Goal: 20-50 properties included annually through 2035.
BE 4- 3 Incorporate evaluation and promotion of energy systems and energy alternatives into the application and review of projects requesting TIF financing.  
BE 4- 4 Explore establishing an incentive or cost sharing program to reduce the costs for solar PV for income qualified homeowners.  Combine the incentive with the city's annual Residential Group Purchase Campaign.
BE 5- BE 5: Increase the renewable energy share of the electric utility portfolio serving the community from 35% to 65% by 2035.
BE 5- 1 Adopt a formal resolution supporting OPPD's net zero carbon commitment.  As a part of the resolution, establish a Clean Grid Task Force to prioritize and develop programs supporting the commitment.  
BE 6- BE 6: Reduce share of population living in high energy poverty from 40% to 20% by 2035.
BE 6- 1 Assist OPPD in the development and promotion of alternative/renewable energy system installation.  Prioritize installation of systems in established neighborhoods comprised of aging housing stock.  Target 20,000 MWh of clean energy through 2035.
BE 6- 2 Develop a webpage on the City's Climate Action website (https://www.omacap.org/) with resources about renewable energy options for homes and businesses, including available renewable energy programs, and available incentives and rebates.
BE 6- 3 Collaborate with partners to explore the development tools to finance energy efficiency and renewable energy retrofits for commercial and residential buildings that have low barriers to entry and limited risk for local government and that are broadly accessible to households and building owners, including rental properties, throughout the community.
BE 7- BE 7: Improve total municipal building energy efficiency by 20% by 2035 (electricity and natural gas, including water and wastewater infrastructure).
BE 7- 1 Develop and implement energy efficiency guidelines for municipal buildings.  Establish minimum standards for energy efficiency, "net zero" buildings, alternative energy generation, and high-efficiency appliances/equipment.
BE 7- 2 Conduct an energy audit on all municipal sites and buildings.  Identify high-priority projects for energy efficiency improvements in the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and city maintenance.  Goal: Complete Audit and Project Prioritization in two years, with implementation targeted in five years.
BE 7- 3 Conduct a fuels audit on all municipal sites and equipment.  Identify high-priority projects for conversion to electric and/or fuel switching to a renewable alternative. Goal: 20% government building thermal �fuel switching" from on-site fossil fuel combustion to electrification by 2035.
BE 8- BE 8: Increase renewable energy to 100% (on-site and green source purchase) of municipal building electric use by 2035.
BE 8- 1 Conduct a renewable energy feasibility study across all municipal sites and equipment.  Identify high-priority projects for initials conversion to renewable energy systems and a timeline for implementation to maximize cost savings available through the IRS direct pay tax credit for local governments.
Waste Management
WM 1- WM 1:  Complete Waste Characterization Assessment for the City of Omaha by December 2025 to establish up-to-date baseline waste management data,
WM 1- 1 Complete Waste Characterization Assessment for the City of Omaha by December 2025 to establish up-to-date baseline waste management data.
WM 2- WM 2: Engage institutions and businesses in measuring and reducing their current solid waste production.
WM 2- 1 Collaborate with waste haulers, Pheasant Point Landfill, and the County to explore options for establishing annual non-residential waste volume metrics.
WM 2- 2 Develop and promote a waste audit and diversion assistance program for local businesses.  Focus on tracking and reporting of waste streams; identifying reduction, diversion, and beneficial use opportunities; financing sources; and partners.  Collaborate with waste haulers and the County to identify commercial garbage loads with a high level of recyclable materials for identification of early adoption participants.  Goal: 60 business waste audits completed annually with businesses engaged in measuring and diverting waste.
WM 2- 3 Provide outreach and education to City businesses in reducing greenhouse gas emissions through their supply chains and to encourage businesses, especially restaurants, to have onsite waste diversion options for all packaging used or served to customers.  Coordinate with action I2-3.
WM 2- 4 Partner with OPS and other institutional uses to implement and/or expand waste reduction programs.  
WM 3- WM 3: Decrease annual citywide residential solid waste per household, per the City of Omaha solid waste contract, by 10% by 2035.
WM 3- 1 Create a comprehensive communication campaign to reach the residential sector providing standardized information and communications on waste reduction, recycling, and organics collection options and incentives. Include learning tools devoted to reduction, reuse, recycling, repairing, and composting. Coordinate with action I2-3.
WM 3- 2 Develop and implement a comprehensive waste management plan, utilizing a thorough examination of existing and distinctive programs implemented in other communities.  Include learning, outreach, and circular economy priorities in plan elements.
WM 4- WM 4: Increase organics (food, yard waste, compostable products) diversion by 20% of total Municipal Solid Waste by 2035.
WM 4- 1 Develop an organics waste collection program at municipal buildings, and event centers. Invite commercial property owners, County, School District, and other public agencies located within the City to participate in the program. Goal: 10% business organics waste collection participation (an estimated 150 businesses annually) by 2035.
WM 4- 2 Establish and promote participation in a curbside and community composting program.
WM 4- 3 Develop and promote a food waste reduction program to support the recovery, redistribution, and diversion of organic waste.  Include food donation and distribution, along with accessibility to such programs in low/moderate income neighborhoods.  Include initial waste diversion pilot programs with the intent to scale operations for all residential, commercial, and industrial uses.
WM 5- WM 5: Increase recycling diversion from 25% to 50% of total Municipal Solid Waste handled by 2035.
WM 5- 1 Expand recycling at all municipal facilities, and all public spaces. Target 50 percent diversion of waste from landfill to recycling facilities by 2030, and 90 percent by 2035.  Invite County, School District, and other public agencies located within the City to participate.
WM 5- 2 Develop and implement a recycling program for multifamily residential housing communities.  Target early adoption for residential communities located in low/moderate income neighborhoods.  Include incentives/program funding opportunities for property owner/management to adopt and promote.
WM 5- 3 Establish a recycling marketing campaign directed toward improving retail/commercial businesses adoption and promotion. Coordinate with action I2-3.
WM 6- WM 6: Increase capture and use of solid waste energy potential, including beneficial use of landfill gas, achieve a 30% increase in beneficial use by 2035.
WM 6- 1 Expand current programs to increase the capture and use of solid waste energy to provide 100 percent of landfill energy needs.  Collaborate on a feasibility study for utilization of excess energy capture into new beneficial uses.
Water and Wastewater
W 1- W 1: Promote reduced water consumption and wastewater generation citywide with a targeted reduction of 10% each by 2035.
W 1- 1 Develop, promote, and implement a program supporting the installation of low-flow water fixtures in residential and commercial sites.  Consider integration of such a program with a coordinated energy and resource efficiency audit as identified in the Buildings and Energy sector of this plan. Goal: achieve 500 households and 50 businesses upgraded annually.
W 1- 2 Partner with M.U.D.  to expand the water leak detection programs in place throughout the municipal water supply/cycle with the goal of reducing water leaks by 50% by 2035.
W 1- 3 Adopt water resource efficiency standards for all municipal/public facilities.
W 1- 4 Partner with M.U.D.  to establish a conservation-oriented rate structure for water services. Include capacity support to implement an income-based tiered billing structure.
W 1- 5 Expand and promote the existing rain barrel program. Utilize existing and emerging technology as a platform for promotion, outreach, and learning tools.  
W 1- 6 Develop and implement policies requiring rainwater/greywater collection and use at city facilities.
W 2- W 2: Increase capture and use of wastewater energy resources and achieve a 40% increase in beneficial use by 2035.
W 2- 1 Expand current programs to increase the capture and use of heat generated by the City's sanitary sewer and water treatment systems to provide 100 percent of the City's Municipal Water Resource Recovery Facility (MRRF) energy needs.  Collaborate on a study for the utilization wastewater energy capture options such as those through the US DOE Sustainable Wastewater Infrastructure Accelerator.
W 2- 3 Conduct a "wastewater to hydrogen" generation and feasibility study which identifies the potential of generating green hydrogen or other alternative fuels through the wastewater treatment process.
W 3- W3: Update design standards and implement plans to meet projected climate change storm water and flood mitigation requirements.
W 3- 1 Update the city's existing flood maps to reflect the most recent and best available data. Include the development of a flash flooding risk map with a focus on flooding risks to vulnerable populations and critical infrastructure.  Adopt all updates to future floodplain mapping as well as best practices for floodplain management
W 3- 2 Develop a Green Infrastructure Manual or Playbook for the incorporation of green infrastructure into development in alignment with 2024/35 Stormwater Management Plan update.
W 3- 3 Adjust existing zoning to reduce the total square footage of impervious surfaces city-wide.  Focus on the pavement elimination, floodplain preservation, and green stormwater management facilities. Target: 25% allowable impervious surface decrease.
W 3- 4 Develop and implement a floodplain conservation and enhancement plan to preserve and reduce development impact on floodplains. Prioritize preservation of all floodplains and their natural functions. Include native habitat restoration as a part of preservation efforts.  
W 4- W4: Increase groundwater, stream, river and wetland water quality protection and restoration.
W 4- 1 Develop and implement a "green technology station" to demonstrate and market green infrastructure technology and water quality impacts. If possible, incorporate the site as a part of a "resilience hub" to serve as a community center during extreme weather events.  
W 4- 2 Update stormwater design criteria to prioritize the mitigation of flash flooding risk and preservation of natural stream and wetland flows as a means of reducing flood risks and increasing storage capacity during extreme weather events.
W 4- 3 Develop green and other stormwater management infrastructure to increase the share of city-wide impervious surfaces changing to a Best Management Practices (BMPs).
W 4- 4 Partner with federal, state, and regional entities to develop a voluntary property buyout plan for properties at highest risk of flooding.
W 4- 5 Establish and promote an �Adopt-a-Drain� program to continue to improve removal of debris from storm drains and waterways.
W 4- 6 Establish a stormwater utility and rate structure that incentivizes stormwater management best practices, including reduction in impervious surfaces and incorporation of green infrastructure into stormwater management plans.  
Local Food and Agriculture
FA 1- FA 1: Increase production of and access to local food, particularly serving low income and food insecure individuals.
FA 1- 1 Establish a local food resources hub.  Include urban agriculture and soil quality information and learning tools, links to nutrition and healthcare resources, local food access and distribution resources, partner organization links, and learning tools.
FA 1- 2 Partner with community organizations, OPL, and others to create a garden tool lending and food exchange program.
FA 1- 3 Create a food and agriculture working group, comprised of representatives of local neighborhoods, community-based organizations, healthcare representatives, local food coops/distribution centers, and city/county officials.  Work group objectives include promotion of local food production, establishment of stable and affordable local food supply chains, expansion of sustenance gardening community-wide, and expansion of the use of local food supplies across local institutions/businesses.
FA 1- 4 Implement and expand existing policies and regulations permitting urban agriculture.  
FA 1- 5 Encourage community gardens in multifamily residential developments.
FA 1- 6 Establish "Grow Omaha" central community food plot/garden, a visionary project supported by the City and partners that trains youth and residents from the community in local food growth. Program to include community garden space, food forest, and an urban market garden where youth can learn how to manage urban agriculture and food produced is donated to community members in need. Explore inclusion of a year round indoor growing facility.
FA 1- 7 Plant fruit and nut trees in appropriate City-owned properties and rights-of-way throughout the City.  Explore partnerships with local organizations to collect and distribute fruit and nuts from planted trees.
FA 1- 8 Increase food access opportunities through grocery stores, farmers markets, urban farms, and food reuse in underserved areas.
FA 2- FA 2: Reduce food waste and hunger, achieve a 50% reduction in food insecurity citywide by 2035.
FA 2- 1 Collaborate with waste haulers, Pheasant Point Landfill, and the County to explore options for establishing annual food waste volume metrics.
FA 2- 2 Develop a food security assessment and food security playbook.  Identify likely scenarios related to food-related emergencies.  Identify methods of establishing and securing a local foods plan to assist in the partial response of a food-related emergency.
FA 2- 3 Develop and expand on existing food donation programs designed to provide easy, timely access to healthy food options in low/moderate income neighborhoods and vulnerable populations.
FA 3- FA 3: Increase adoption of regenerative, carbon positive soil, crop, fertilizing, irrigation, and drainage management practices to 50% of crop land in use by 2035.
FA 3- 1 Develop, promote, and implement an Omaha Agricultural Services Marketplace, intended to promote and reward local farmers for the use of regenerative agricultural, healthy soil, and water conservation practices.  Explore options for the establishment of an incentive program for local farmers to implement these practices.
FA 3- 2 Partner with M.U.D.  to offer water service rebates/incentives for farmers utilizing smart water management practices.
FA 4- FA 4: Protect and preserve agricultural land while increasing its resilience to climate shocks.
FA 4- 1 Establish an Omaha agricultural land gift program focused on converting agricultural lands to sustainable/regenerative practices.  
FA 4- 2 Establish a grant program designed to support area farmers in establishing long-term viability and succession strategies.  Target early eligibility and adoption on farms utilizing/converting to regenerative farming practices as well as low/moderate income households  and identified vulnerable population households.
Greenspace and Ecosystems
GE 1- GE 1: Increase tree cover, particularly in the priority neighborhoods, from 24.9% to 27.9% by 2040 emphasizing non-invasive species and climate adaptive species (an increase of 11.9% over existing tree canopy area - The proposed framework does not include land in use as agriculture in calculations of potential tree canopy increases).
GE 1- 1 Establish and implement a community canopy plan address the definition, character, and preservation needs of city tree canopy, prioritizing a "no net loss" policy. Plan to include Street Tree and Landscape Design Standards and a master list of native, drought resistant, non-invasive, and climate-adjusted species to be used in all public improvement projects. The plan should also include potential ways to support trees on private property including wide distribution of access to best tree canopy practices, learning tools, incentives, resources, and partner organizations devoted to healthy tree canopy.
GE 1- 2 Update City�s Landscape ordinance to include a minimum tree coverage per lawn area or per impervious surface coverage and to require planting islands in parking lots for all new construction or expansion projects. Promote diversity of native canopy trees, shrubs, and groundcovers appropriate to the lot and its surroundings.
GE 1- 3 Incorporate tree canopy, native grasslands, and emerging green infrastructure into the stormwater post-construction program recommendations for mitigation and management practices.  
GE 1- 4 Preserve existing forested areas through practices that re-purpose already developed areas, such as establishing codes that retain minimum canopy cover on new developments and minimize removal of native soil, ground cover, and shrubs.
GE 1- 5 Create a city tree grow program or facility to support new tree planting needs with climate adaptive species.
GE 1- 6 Develop funding/financing strategies to implement green infrastructure and maintenance practices community-wide.  
GE 1- 7 Require soil profile rebuilding at all building project sites to reduce erosion and runoff contaminated with fertilizers, increase soil carbon stores, support long-term soil building, and improve new tree survival and growth rates.
GE 2- GE 2: Increase pollinator supportiveness and achieve a 10% turf replacement with native grasses, plants, and wildflowers citywide by 2040 (approximately 210 acres annually).
GE 2- 1 Complete a Land Conversion Opportunity Study. Analyze public and private property for unused turf and impervious areas, and create a Ground Cover Conversion Implementation plan by census tract to convert identified areas to native grasslands, wetlands, shrub, and forested areas.  Identify incentive opportunities and establish an outreach campaign in coordination with action I2-3.
GE 2- 2 Collaborate with partners to create a Green Omaha! Program to identify existing acres on public agency and school properties and convert them to native prairie installations.  Program will collaborate with partners to establish and expand native prairie education and interpretive opportunities for students and community members.
GE 2- 3 Establish an "Omaha Lawns to Legumes" incentive program to support replacement of lawns with alternatives including native grasses, wild flowers, pollinator friendly plantings, and vegetable gardens.  Prioritize lawn replacement in portions of the city with increased stormwater management needs and higher vulnerable populations and LIDAC communities.
GE 2- 4 Partner with the University of Nebraska Extension office to development and promote a series of workshops on Omaha ecology, including lawn alternatives, gardening, landscaping, composting, soil restoration, and wildfire mitigation and protection.  Utilize the results of these workshops as learning tools, accessible through a centralized informational hub.
GE 3- GE 3: Reduce heat island effect through citywide impervious surface coverage reduction of 10% by 2040, with a prioritization of reduction of �dark� surfaces, particularly in neighborhoods identified with higher heat island impacts (approximately 270 acres annually).
GE 3- 1 Identify underutilized paved areas and develop an incentive and assistance program to support the conversion of unused turf and impervious areas in the city to sustainable green space as outlined in the City's Land Conversion Opportunity Study (see actions in GE 2).
GE 3- 2 Explore creation of a Heat Island Reduction Incentive / Award program. Incentives and awards from governments, utilities, and other organizations can be an effective way to spur individual heat island reduction actions. Incentives might include below-market loans, tax breaks, product rebates, grants, and giveaways. Awards can reward exemplary work, highlight innovation, and promote solutions across the public and private sectors.
GE 3- 3 Review and update Green Streets or Living Streets policy to guide inclusion of  "green" street infrastructure including "green" roundabouts, curb-side bio-swales, rain gardens, and permeable median islands in alignment with the goals of this plan.
GE 3- 4 Develop an outreach campaign coordinated with local social non-profits and community groups to help build awareness of heat island risks and establish a foundation for action. Coordinate with action I2-3.
GE 3- 5 Eliminate off-street parking minimums and increase tree canopy requirements in surface parking lots.
GE 3- 6 Collaborate with partner organizations to develop and promote a cool roofs/cool pavements incentive program.  
GE 4- GE 4: Reduce invasive species and increase climate resilience and biodiversity of City�s tree canopy, parks and greenspaces.
GE 4- 1 Use the Street Tree and Landscape Design Standards to create a "Guide to Natural Landscaping" to increase the use of climate adaptive plants and high carbon sequestering species in landscaping projects.  Work with partners to develop and promote the guide to inform the public and professional landscapers and include it on the City's Climate Action website (https://www.omacap.org/).
GE 4- 2 Partner with area nurseries and landscaping companies to increase the availability of native and ecologically well-adapted non-invasive species in the local market.  
GE 4- 3 Develop and promote a Omaha Habitats Plan to establish best practices for the establishment and propagation of native habitats across the city.  Utilize existing and emerging technology to centralize and promote learning tools, best practices, partner organizations, and access to certification programs.    
GE 5- GE 5: Increase connectivity, accessibility and equity of City�s parks and greenspaces.
GE 5- 1 Conduct a greenspace and preservation assessment. Target early adoption efforts on the preservation and expansion of greenspace in low/moderate income neighborhoods. Coordinate assessment with findings of the Citywide Ground Cover and Heat Island Assessment and Urban Forest Management Plan and include best practices for stormwater management, and increased plant diversity and pollinator-friendly habitat.
GE 5- 2 Incorporate the connectivity and preservation of greenspaces as a priority into current and future city planning efforts, including the pending Omaha Comprehensive Plan and the Omaha Parks Master Plan update.  
GE 5- 3 Update zoning and subdivision design criteria to incorporate natural systems and green infrastructure in site development requirements and public improvement projects.  
Health and Safety
HS 1- HS 1 : Decrease the impacts of Air Quality on the health of the community with a focus on vulnerable populations (Based on the City's Vulnerability Assessment and the US EPA CJEST Map).
HS 1- 1 Develop and expand existing programs and campaigns dedicated to air quality.  Utilize available and emerging technology in combination with regional health system partners, as a means of promotion and location for resources, metrics, best practices, and learning tools.  Focus on impacts of indoor air quality and air quality impacts from wildfires and extreme heat.  Coordinate with action I2-3.
HS 1- 2 Support and partner with area educational institutions to identify and promote air quality-related learning objectives through learning tools and training programs directed at students and healthcare professionals.
HS 1- 3 Develop and promote an incentive program for the reduction of commercial/industrial emissions for local businesses.  Include options for sustained funding mechanisms.  Target small/emerging businesses and businesses operating in low/moderate income neighborhoods for early adoption through a tiered incentive program.
HS 1- 4 Partner with neighborhood associations to establish dialogue focused on disaster preparedness. Utilize the proposed Livability and Sustainability Hub to serve as a central location for communication, collaboration, and learning tools.  Include an adopt-a-neighborhood campaign and OEM CERT-like training availability.  Coordinate with action I2-3.
HS 2- HS 2: Develop resilient emergency shelters to provide community refuge.
HS 2- 1 Establish heating and cooling centers, supported by renewable energy generation and battery backups. Include the development and implementation of a communication/promotion strategy to widely share availability of these centers among vulnerable populations. Coordinate with action I2-3.
HS 2- 2 Utilize metro-area transit stops as "mini-resilience hubs", operating on renewable energy systems and providing charging capacity, climate event updates, and action recommendations.
HS 2- 3 Conduct a needs assessment of accessible community centers for extreme weather or other emergency situations. Create a development improvement plan, if needed.
HS 2- 4 Install and maintain additional shade structures, tree canopy, water features, and drinking water stations in public spaces. Target early adoption for areas identified as having high potential for urban heat island impacts, and particularly within existing/older residential neighborhoods.
HS 3- HS 3: Provide climate change related public health communication.
HS 3- 1 Develop and implement an outreach campaign targeting air pollution, allergies, ozone exposure, and extreme heat events. Coordinate with action I2-3.
HS 3- 2 Ensure all emergency communication between government and the public is available in multiple languages across all platforms.
HS 3- 3 Advocate for the development of environmental education-integrated curriculum across school districts and private education institutions.
HS 4- HS 4: Increase preparedness for and capacity to respond to emergency situations.
HS 4- 1 Partner with area agencies to develop a Natural Disaster Response, Relief, and Recovery Plan.  Focus on communications, property adaptation and resiliency, housing needs, risk assessment, land acquisition, and critical infrastructure resilience.   Identify the location of critical facilities including hospitals, medical service providers, senior homes, childcare facilities, shelters, major and alternate transportation routes, public transit facilities and locations where hazardous chemicals are used or stored.
HS 4- 2 Support DCEMA in the update and expansion of the existing Local Emergency Operations Plan (LEOP) to consider evacuation routes, transportation, shelter-in-place locations, power needs/generation, and potable water needs.  In particular, existing plans should identify and specifically plan for responses for the most vulnerable populations.
HS 4- 3 Create a City of Omaha Office of Emergency Preparedness, to oversee preparations and coordinate mid and long-range response efforts to climate-related events across a number of agencies and jurisdictions.
HS 5- HS 5: Provide climate impact related mental health care.
HS 5- 1 Partner with area health care institutions to develop and promote climate-related mental health resilience.
HS 5- 2 Partner with area health care institutions, emergency services, and recovery services to develop training and education to respond to physical signs of climate-related illness.  Prioritize identification and response for vulnerable populations.
HS 6- HS 6: Provide community social support networks.
HS 6- 1 Create a public health and climate change working group comprised of area health care network providers, non-profits, Douglas County Health Department, and city officials. Focus on the identification and development of coalition members, community support mechanisms, adaptation strategies, communication campaigns, and learning opportunities. Coordinate with action I2-3.
HS 6- 2 Establish an Adopt-A-Neighbor campaign, or "neighborhood resilience watch" to create neighborhood-level support for vulnerable individuals during extreme weather events and emergencies.  
HS 6- 3 Develop a �Climate Migration and Refugee Response Scenario Plan.� Plan details must address provision of housing, education, health care, and economic impacts, and particularly in low/moderate income neighborhoods.
HS 6- 4 Provide travel vouchers to vulnerable individuals to use during extreme heat and weather emergencies since lack of transportation is highly correlated to heat vulnerability.
Resilient Economy
RE 1- RE 1: Capture the full range of economic values of Climate Action, both market and non-market (economic gains in the market and avoided costs or externalities).
RE 1- 1 Conduct a climate-economy development assessment. Identify the economic potential derived from climate action in the local economy. Include scenario development and evaluation of climate migration, energy shortfalls, new/renewable green industry development, and supply/demand fluctuations.  Specifically evaluate scenarios for potential impacts in low/moderate income and other vulnerable populations.
RE 1- 2 Require environmental impact, climate risk, and vulnerability analysis and adaptation plans to be incorporated into City infrastructure projects and capital improvement budgets.
RE 1- 3 Create an economics and climate change working group, comprised of area business interests, land developers, city officials, and economic development organizations.  Focus on identification of climate-related economic opportunities, communication strategies, and the adoption of policies benefiting small/emerging businesses.
RE 1- 4 Establish a "Green Tech and Business Incubator" to support the establishment of innovative energy and sustainability-driven business within the community. Target small/emerging businesses and those which can support a "just transition" for early adoption and use.
RE 2- RE 2: Develop the equitable workforce and entrepreneur opportunities of Climate Action in the economy.
RE 2- 1 Partner with local union halls to provide training and certification programs for the installation and maintenance of renewable energy systems, green technology, energy efficiency retrofits, and new construction.
RE 2- 2 Partner with area educational institutions and trade schools to establish targeted job training and entrepreneurial development programs in renewables, green technology, and construction. Target 1,000 new "green careers" by 2030.
RE 2- 3 Adjust existing evaluation criteria for the Economic Equity and Inclusion Program (EEIP) to include climate and resiliency impacts in quarterly reporting and assessment.
RE 3- RE 3: Support local businesses operations in building marketplace climate resilience.
RE 3- 1 Ensure water, road, utilities, and other public infrastructure is prepared for climate change based on climate change projections, the Risk and Vulnerability Assessment, and the Emergency Management Plan.
RE 3- 2 Develop economic "green zones" and policy initiatives directed at economic development rooted in environmentally-conscious businesses and industries.  Zones should initially be established in low/moderate income neighborhoods, and policies should prioritize small/emerging local businesses.
RE 4- RE 4: Prepare for and guide climate change migration to the benefit of the community.
RE 4- 1 Create a climate migration and refugee assessment and accompanying climate migration and refugee response plan.  Identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats for Omaha when facing a migration/refugee crisis.  Establish a playbook for critical initial steps and considerations for communication, housing, health care, and education needs.
RE 4- 2 Expand and implement the Housing Affordability and Action Plan (HAAP), and refine requirements of the plan to consider climate impacts in implementation.
RE 5- RE 5: Establish sustainable financing for the City�s climate action implementation.
RE 5- 1 Establish a policy that accounts for all energy efficiency and renewable energy operational cost savings of City buildings and fleets.  All savings to be invested into a Climate Action Fund as one source of financing for the City's climate action efforts.
RE 5- 2 Utilize Tax increment Financing (TIF) to incentivize Mitigation and Adaptation actions in line with the goals of the CARP.
RE 5- 3 Explore the potential of collaborations with donors, philanthropists, and non-profit foundations to develop a Climate Action and Equity Fund for the City of Omaha.
RE 5- 4 Identify a sustainable funding source for increased utility assistance for low-income residents, including support for energy efficiency projects, such as weatherization. e.g. green bank funding, revolving fund, connected to on-bill-financing.