Bill > PR26-0430

This resolution declares an emergency regarding the need to modify the Green Building Act of 2006 to allow the construction of an indoor pool at the Congress Heights Recreation Center in Ward 8, despite challenges with meeting net zero energy standards. The resolution explains that current green building requirements would prevent the pool's construction due to space constraints, specifically the presence of heritage trees that limit geothermal well installation, and the high costs associated with meeting net zero energy standards. The community has consistently advocated for an indoor pool at the recreation center, and the Department of General Services (DGS) has been unable to design a pool that meets the Green Building Advisory Committee's (GBAC) strict requirements. The resolution notes that there are only two net zero pools in the country, neither of which are in a dense urban environment with challenging temperature and space conditions like Washington, D.C. By declaring an emergency, the Council seeks to expedite the passage of an amendment act that would exempt Ward 8 natatoriums from net zero energy compliance, ensuring that the community can finally have its long-awaited indoor pool without further delays.

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/PR26-0430