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Ohio has 9 SolSmart communities, which include 6 Bronze (Cleveland, Franklin County, Athens County, Somerset, Amesville, and Athens), 2 Silver (Oberlin and Mid-Ohio RPC), and 1 Gold (Upper Arlington). Some of the benefits of solar development include economic development, increased property tax income, local power generation, achievement of local climate change and sustainability goals, and lower impact on the energy grid. SolSmart's role is to reduce soft costs to increase solar development within a community. Soft costs can account for close to 66% of the total cost of a solar PV system. It also looks to streamline local regulatory processes and can reduce cost of a typical system by $2500. Onerous permitting procedures without guidance can add $700 to the installed cost of a solar system. The technical assistance consists of working with local officials to update processes using best practices. There is no cost, but communities must commit staff time to working toward a SolSmart designation, with the delivery of assistance being conducted online or via conference call. Mr. Wyman then explained the point requirements for the three levels of SolSmart designations. Chairman Bullock summarized the presentation noting that the program does not seek to devote city dollars, however the goal is to unlock city processes to allow private property owners investment in solar. Councilmember Kepple asked what the benefits might be of Lakewood moving forward with SolSmart if the county is already doing it. Committee members explained that creating a better environment for solar to grow may increase opportunities to get outside funding for furthering solar projects/initiatives. They also added the designation may assist Lakewood's reputation and influence where people choose to move and live. Chairman Bullock asked where the SolSmart designation has attracted developers. Mr. Wyman stated that developers don't spend time on solar if the process is burdensome. SolSmart's assistance with soft costs and tailoring to a community provides a city with a level of control and furtherance of resources. Chairman Bullock inquired whether there would be enough staff involvement in SolSmart. Director Leininger stated the Planning Department has contemplated it and has assigned city planner Amanda Kramer to take a deep dive into the program. It appears Lakewood may already have Bronze level qualifications. Planning is also looking to kick off a rewrite of the zoning code and the city can capture SolSmart solar best practices through that process. The RFP for a rewrite will happen late this year and kick off in 2023. A code rewrite could be a 18-24 month process. Councilmembers expressed optimism on achieving higher levels of SolSmart and volunteered to help the Planning Department in their work. Motion by Chairman Bullock, seconded by Councilmember Kepple to recommend Resolution 2022-09 for adoption by the full Council.