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Commissioner Posson stated that he is also suggesting that the Commission look at potable water supply as well because the City is on a water budget. He added that the Commission may be familiar with the 20- percent reduction by 2020, which will create some challenges for reductions on a per capita basis. He indicated that an example is the project the Commission recently recommended approval where it added the requirement for sub - meters for each of the residential units. He noted that without that, there would not have been an incentive for the renters to reduce their water usage because there would have been a general rate. He added that he believes by adding those types of conditions, the Commission can improve the way projects coming before this Commission are approved for development in the City. Commissioner Posson stated that in his memo, he outlined some ideas on how the Commission may want to partner with the Energy and Environment Committee. He noted that these are being offered just to get the discussion going, and he thinks there may be some additional items that Commissioners may want to have staff do some research on prior to the Commission's discussion. He requested that the Commission set up a policy discussion on those two items. Chair Blank noted that this is an area Commissioner Posson has knowledge of. He indicated that he knows there are energy star appliances for electricity and gas and inquired if there any energy star appliances for water. Commissioner Posson said no, adding that energy star is strictly and primarily applicable to electricity. Chair Blank commented that the thought occurred to him that the sub -meter issue really does not conserve any water; all it does is inflict the pain of water consumption on the residents, and if they are willing to pay for it, they can use as much water as they want. Commissioner Posson replied that it is true, but they are paying for their water use. Chair Blank stated that he is not suggesting that it is a bad idea but that he is just thinking out loud. He noted, for example, that if he is consuming too much electricity, he can go and purchase a high- efficiency electrical appliance or install solar panels on the roof; but if he is consuming too much water and he already has the low -flow toilets and shower heads by regulation, he does not know how he can get water efficiency. He noted that washing machines are energy efficient and assumed that some of the newer ones are supposed to be water - efficient as well. Commissioner Narum stated that she thinks Commissioner Posson has a good point that the best way that people can conserve is to make them conserve. Chair Blank stated that he is not debating that it is not a good idea; he just wants to know how he can consume less water so he can conserve water. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, April 24, 2013 Page 7 of 11