The Lowell Sustainability Council on July 24 decided to postpone a vote on whether to send a letter supporting a specialized stretch code for building energy performance, saying the council needs clearer evidence of the policy's tangible benefits for renters and low‑income households before taking a position.

AC, a council member, asked for concrete projections: "What will supporting actually mean, in terms of benefits for the lower residents?" AC asked for calculations of greenhouse gas reductions and for payback estimates that show how much energy cost savings would flow to renters and building owners.

Jake, who earlier said he had spoken with a Markley representative about their LEED ambitions, and other members agreed the idea is sound but questioned its timing given limited resources for low‑ and moderate‑income households. Mary urged coordination with the City of Lowell Sustainability Division and noted the division is already developing multi‑year strategies focused on renters.

Why this matters: nearly 56% of housing in the city is renter‑occupied (council estimate cited during discussion), and members expressed concern that building performance requirements could shift costs to tenants unless paired with targeted support. Council members repeatedly said they want data showing whether and how a specialized stretch code would lower household energy use or bills in practice.

Next steps agreed at the meeting included delaying any formal letter of support until more evidence is gathered, and approaching Catherine and her team in the sustainability division to identify existing analyses and outreach plans. Council members proposed inviting landlord groups and neighborhood renters‑focused organizations to a future meeting in September to help shape any advocacy or communication.

No formal vote to endorse the stretch code was taken; the item was tabled to a future meeting so the council can review data and coordinate with the sustainability division's planned renter‑focused work.