Rosemount adopts Sustainable Purchasing Framework to meet GreenStep Cities goal

The Rosemount City Council on Jan. 21 adopted a Sustainable Purchasing Framework intended to advance the city’s GreenStep Cities ranking and standardize internal purchasing toward environmental goals.

Stormwater Specialist Jane Baron and Solid Waste and Recycling Coordinator Violet Penman presented the policy and described four purchasing priorities: recycled-content paper, Energy Star-certified equipment, WaterSense-labeled water-saving fixtures and low-toxicity cleaning products. Penman said the framework also promotes source reduction, repair of electronics and using reusable or compostable supplies at city-sponsored events.

Penman said the framework follows existing state guidelines for recycled paper content and includes a cost-control provision that prevents staff from paying more than a 10% premium for sustainable alternatives when a non-sustainable alternative is available at lower cost. She added contractors and capital construction projects are excluded from the policy; it applies to internal operational purchases.

“Implementation will consist of sending this to department heads for staff distribution,” Baron said, adding that many common products already meet Energy Star or WaterSense standards and that the policy is a “basic starting point” the city can adapt over time.

Council Member Klimpel moved to approve the policy; Council Member Tyson seconded. Roll-call votes recorded Klimpel, Tyson, Esler and Weisensoe as voting “aye.” The motion passed 4-0.

Staff said the Environment and Sustainability Commission drafted the policy with input from department heads and that the policy is one of several actions the city must adopt to reach Step 3 in the GreenStep Cities program.