The Board of Education recognizes the importance of energy conservation and is committed to the analysis, development, and initiation of conservation measures throughout the District for the purpose of reducing energy consumption, particularly in these times of declining levels of natural energy resources and increasing cost of these resources. The Board maintains an aggressive and responsible program to reduce consumption of energy by its facilities and to provide education to both staff and students on the conservation of energy.
The District is committed to an energy conservation program that addresses not only capital-related energy projects but ongoing, day-to-day energy related issues as well. All staff are urged to participate actively in a program of energy conservation by assisting in the efforts to eliminate the wasteful use of energy in the operation of the District’s buildings. Cooperation will be required of each employee and each student to achieve a meaningful energy conservation program that results in a more efficient use of energy resources. Involvement of staff and students is essential to a successful program of energy conservation.
Energy Manager
The Director of Facilities and Operations is designated as the Energy Manager of the District and he/she shall report directly to the Board of Education and the Superintendent, or their designee, on matters pertaining to energy conservation.
Minimum Indoor Air Temperature
The District will comply with the Property Maintenance Code of New York State, part of the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code, which requires that indoor occupiable work spaces be maintained at a minimum temperature of sixty-five (65) degrees from September 14 to May 31 during the period the spaces are occupied. There are exceptions for areas of vigorous physical activities such as gymnasiums as well as processing spaces such as coolers or freezers. However, by law, code or regulation there is no maximum temperature specified. Ventilation requirements only require fresh air, not cool air-conditioning.
Long-Range Considerations
The energy conservation program is an important factor to be considered in planning effective use of school facilities, new construction, remodeling or rehabilitation programs, and modernization projects.
Recycling
The Board is committed to protecting and improving the environment by recycling commonly used materials, waste prevention strategies and purchasing recycled products when feasible. This District-wide recycling plan shall include:
a) A conservation education program to teach students about their social responsibility for preserving our resources, and involvement of all students and personnel in a comprehensive effort to reduce, reuse and recycle waste materials;
b) A concerted effort to purchase recycled and biodegradable items;
c) Separation of waste into appropriate categories for the purposes of recycling; and
d) A cooperative effort with community recycling programs.
Environmental Conservation Law Sections 27-2101- 27-2117
General Municipal Law Section 120-aa
19 NYCRR Sections 1221-1228 and 1240
Energy Conservation Code of New York State 2007
Adopted February 26, 2019