Overland Park Celebrates LEED Gold Certification and Outlines Sustainability Improvements

Overland Park has achieved a significant milestone in its commitment to sustainability by earning a LEED Gold certification, making it the first city in Kansas to receive this prestigious recognition. The announcement was made during a recent government meeting, where city officials highlighted the collaborative efforts of various departments in the certification process.

The city’s internal sustainability task force, comprising representatives from multiple departments, played a crucial role in identifying and applying for 41 individual measures necessary for the LEED rating. This comprehensive approach involved input from external stakeholders, including Kansas Gas Service, WaterOne, and Evergy, ensuring that the city’s sustainability practices align with industry best practices.

Despite the success, officials acknowledged areas needing improvement, particularly in water usage and waste management. The city’s high per capita water consumption, driven by large lawns and golf courses, was a key factor in its lower scores in these categories. Additionally, the open market waste system complicates tracking waste output, making it challenging to improve recycling rates.

To address these issues, Overland Park is currently conducting a solid waste study and collaborating with WaterOne to enhance water conservation efforts. The city plans to celebrate its LEED Gold certification at an upcoming city council meeting on September 15, where officials will unveil a commemorative plaque.

Looking ahead, city staff are focused on refining their sustainability strategies and aligning them with ongoing plans, such as the urban forest plan and the electric vehicle readiness plan. By continuously measuring and recording successes, Overland Park aims to resubmit for certification every three to ten years, with aspirations of achieving the highest LEED Platinum rating in the future.

This achievement not only underscores Overland Park's dedication to environmental stewardship but also sets a benchmark for other cities in the region, showcasing the importance of collaborative efforts in fostering sustainable community development.