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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013-05-07; City Council; 21218; Equinox Center 2013 Quality of Life PresentationCITY OF CARLSBAD - AGENDA BILL AB# MTG. DEPT. 21,218 5-7-13 CM EQUINOX CENTER 2013 SAN DIEGO REGIONAL QUALITY OF LIFE DASHBOARD PRESENTATION DEPT. DIRECTOR CITY ATTORNEY CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDED ACTION: To receive a presentation from the Equinox Center regarding San Diego County sustainability. ITEM EXPLANATION: The Equinox Center recently completed the 2013 San Diego Regional Quality of Life Dashboard (Exhibit 2). The Dashboard is a tool to stimulate dialogue around new solutions for the San Diego region's sustainability challenges. Equinox Center staff will provide a presentation to Council regarding the document's findings. FISCAL IMPACT: None. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Pursuant to Section 15061 of the CEQA Guidelines, the activity is covered by the General Rule that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. Where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA. EXHIBIT: 1. 2. E-mail from Communications Director Sarah Benson requesting opportunity to provide Carlsbad City Council with an oven/iew of the 2013 San Diego Regional Quality of Life Dashboard. The 2013 San Diego Regional Quality of Life Dashboard. DEPARTMENT CONTACT: Sheila Cobian (760) 434-2959, sheila.cobian@carlsbadca.gov FOR CITY CLERKS USE ONLY. • COUNCIL ACTION: APPROVED • CONTINUED TO DATE SPECIFIC • DENIED • CONTINUED TO DATE UNKNOWN • CONTINUED • RETURNED TO STAFF • WITHDRAWN • OTHER-SEE MINUTES • AMENDED • Council received the report. Sheila Cobian From: Sarah Benson <sarah@equinoxcenter.org> Sent: Thursday, January 31, 2013 3:31 PM To: Sheila Cobian Cc: City Clerk Subject: Request for Presentation at Council Meeting: 2013 Quality of Life Dashboard Attachments: Equinox Center Backgrounder 2013.pdf; Equinox Center Directors 2013.pdf Dear Sheila and Carlsbad City Clerk, On behalf of the Equinox Center, an independent, non-partisan, not for profit research and policy center, I am contacting you to formally request inclusion on the agenda for an upcoming Carlsbad City Council meeting. As we have done in past years, we are requesting approximately 10 minutes of time in order to present to the Council findings from the 2013 San Diego Regional Quality of Life Dashboard. This brief presentation would provide highlights from the 2013 Dashboard, focusing specifically on findings relevant to the Carlsbad City Council and championing policy solutions from your region. First published in 2009, the annual Dashboard is a set of 14 indicators that together provide an easily digestible snapshot of how our region is performing across a variety of key quality of life factors, including: water usage, air quality, land use, waste, job creation, energy and climate change, housing affordability and economic prosperity. The Dashboard shows how individual cities and municipalities are performing, as well as how our entire region compares against others in California. Most importantly, the Dashboard clearly outlines what the implications of these measures are for policy makers, and helps policy makers to set clear, actionable targets for the future. Together, the Dashboard indicators and recommendations help policy makers plan for the future, so that our region can accommodate its projected growth (600,000 people in the next 20 years) while preserving or enhancing our current quality of life. Thank you for your consideration. Attached you will find a one-page backgrounder on Equinox Center and a list of financial supporters and board members. You can download an electronic copy ofthe 2013 Dashboard here: http://www.eauinoxcenter.org/Regional-Dashboard.html Please feel free to contact me or an Equinox Center team member at (760) 230-2960 with any questions. If you are interested in scheduling the presentation, please reply with the date and time ofthe first available council meeting so we can confirm our speaker. Sincerely, Sarah Benson Communications Director Equinox Center 545 Second St, #3, Encinitas, CA 92024 Tel: 760-230-2960 www.equinoxcenter.org Follow us on Facebook and Twitter. QUALITY OF LIFE DASHBOARD EQUINOX CENTER Healthy Environment • Strong Economy • Vibrant Communities TABLE OF CONTENTS ge Rating Indicator (lo; [12] (14; (is) (is; (19) ;20 (22'] 26 ; 1 • • • D ti • D 24 ta AIR QUALITY Unhealthy Days for Elderly and Children CLEAN JOBS Job Creation CLIMATE CHANGE Municipal Action on Climate Change ECONOMIC PROSPERITY Employment ENERGY Renewable Energy ENERGY Residential Electricity Consumption HOUSING AFFORDABILITY Income Allocation Toward Housing ,. LAND USE Conserved Land, Parks and Trails LAND USE Residential Development TRANSPORTATION Transit Ridership TRANSPORTATION Vehicle Miles Traveled •..••••* WASTE Per Capita Waste Disposal WATER Consumption WATER Beach Closures and Advisories B Improved from the previous year nWorsened from the previous year M| m < 1% change from previous f>4fm year in either direction ¥^ Did not change from S# the previous year Q No data from previous year to compare |M Needs priority attention In 2012, San Diego County met federal emissions standards for ozone for the first time since 1997. Housing affordability Improved slightly for the average family, but homelessness rose by 8.6 percent In 2012. While the numbers improved slightly from 2010 to 2011, San Diegans on average still drive more miles every day than residents of Los Angeles. Cover photo credtts: Top left: The San Diego Foundation Top Right: SANDAG Bottom: Outdoor Outreach WhatYouCanDo ,2 ; Key Findings 28} Organizations Consulted 29) Acknowledgements Beach water quality worsened In 2011, due to wetter weather and an electricity blackout that caused sewage pumps to fall. ABOUT EQUINOX CENTER Our mission Equinox Center is a non-partisan, independent, regional entity that advances innovative solutions to balance regional growth with our finite natural resources. Our mission is to ensure a healthy environment, strong economy and vibrant communities for the San Diego region. WHAT YOU CAN DO How you can make a difference Are you passionate about issues like reducing pollution, climate change, preserving our beaches and natural areas? Do you worry about the availability of well-paying jobs, the rising cost of living, or ever-increasing traffic? No matter where you live in San Diego County, or what your political bent, we want you to join our growing network. What we do ::• Why we do it How we do it Policy Outreach IMPLEMENT OUR IDEAS FOR CHANGE The 2013 Dashboard contains a simple idea or policy option for each indicator topic. Implement one of these ideas or encourage your employer or an elected official to do so. For additional ideas, visit wyiw.equinoxcenter.org/ Regional-Dashboard. CHAMPION OUR CAUSE Stay infonned about key issues facing our region and what you can do about them by following us on Facebook, Twitter or through our e-news. Ifyou are a Millennial, join our Leaders 2020 network. Sign up to stay In touch at wvvw.equlnoxcenter.org. INVEST IN OUR PROGRAMS Your financial support allows us to continue our research, expand our network of support and ensure a high quality of life in the San Diego region. Look for the donation envelope inside this publication or donate securely online at www.equinoxcenter.org. INVITE OTHERS TO ENGAGE Invite your friends, colleagues and business associates to join our online community, attend our events or donate to Equinox Center. Share our reports, videos, maps and graphics, with your network and use them to voice your opinions around Important growth Issues. For additional bright spots, ideas for change, methodology, references and links: WWW.equinOXCenter.OI^/Regional-Dashboard O www.faceboolc.com/EquinoxCenter ©EquinoxCenter |jf|| ^0 aSDLeaders2020 San Diego duality of Life Networlt .equinoxcenter.org San Diego Quality of Life Dashboard 2013 KEY FINDINGS Key findings from the 2013 San Diego Regional Quality of Life Dashboard The findings of our 2013 Dashboard engender cautious hope. In this report, we see slow but steady improvement in job growth, a slight Improvement in housing affordability and a number of environmental indicators such as renewable energy and air quality continuing to move in the right direction. We commend those who are responsible for advancing thoughtful policies and programs to achieve these gains. 102012, we experienced slow, but steady job growth, and slight improvements in housing affordability, renewable energy and air quality. Though encouraging, we don't see the 2013 report as a cause for celebration. The gains we have seen are slight, and in some cases, it appears that returning to "business as usual" is already causing us to use our natural resources less efficiently. Consumption of our most precious resource, water, has increased. Meanwhile, public health, tourism and ecosystems in the southern part of the county are still threatened by poor water quality in the Tijuana River. Despite increases in housing affordability, homelessness rates have risen. The region's 40-year transportation plan created by the San Diego Association of Governments was found in December 2012 by a Superior Court judge in violation of State law for not doing enough to reduce air pollution. 7b achieve sustainable regional growth and a superior quality of life, more progress is needed to create jobs with livable wages and to ensure we protect our natural resources. Progress on these challenges will require vision, leadership, a prospering economy and a collaborative approach to the San Diego region's future. One notable development in 2012 is the culmination of The San Diego Foundation's Our Greater San Diego Vision project, which lays out the collective hopes, aspirations and concerns of many ofthe region's residents and provides a blueprint for decision makers going forward. In addition, 2012 saw the election of new leadership in many communities, and though Equinox Center is firmly non-partisan, we believe there is always opportunity for positive change when new leadership emerges and new voices are engaged. Whnt gets measured get'; managed better We are pleased that Equinox Center's Dashboard can provide the analytical foundation for the important conversations that need to happen to turn new vision and leadership into action. And we are hopeful that through our other initiatives, such as our Leaders 2020 sustainability network for Millennials, and our work with corporations who are committed to social responsibility, we can help bring creativity and innovation to the dialogue about how to ensure a prosperous economy and healthy environment for all San Diego County residents. When that happens, we will truly have cause to celebrate. EQUINOX^-GENTER Healthy Environment • Strong Economy • Vibrant Communities Photo credits Oeft to right): Civita by Sudbenry Properties Outdoor Outreach North County Transit District San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy San Diego Foundation Sullivan Solar Power Measuring what Matters: About the San Diego Regional Quality of Life Dashboard Equinox Center's principal publication, the San Diego Regional Quality of Li^ Dashboard, combines our research efforts with our outreach strategy to advance intelligent policy in the region. Using clear metrics, targets and benchmarks from more than 50 credible academic, govemment or non-governmental sources, the Dashboard tracks our region's annual performance on critical, interlinking quality of life issues, and provides examples of where things are working and ideas for how we can improve. YOUR GUIDE TO THE DASHBOARD Whether an indicator is trending up or down, we can always make improvements. "One Idea for change" offers practical solutions and policy ideas for Improving quality of life in the region. Charts or infographic diagrams help illustrate how San Diego County compares to state or national benchmarks, to other regions, or how San Diego County communities compare to each other. This year's Dashboard is full of "bright spots" that highlight examples of how and why gains have been achieved in our community. San Diego Quality of Life Dashboard 2013 More Bright Spots and Ideas for Change can be found at: www.equinoxcenter.org/Regional-Dashboard. AIRQUALITY Unhealthy Days for Elderly and Children How are we doing? Number of Unhealthy Air Quality Days for Older Adults & Children (San Diego, 2000 - 2011) Children's Asthma Hospitalization Rates, 2011 per 10,000 Persons Under 17 Air quality in San Diego County continued to improve in 2011. The number of unhealthy days for the elderly and children decreased from 19 to 13 from 2010 to 2011 and is significantly lower than neighboring counties. In 2012 San Diego County finally met federal emissions standards for ozone, but the county still has problems meeting EPA's particulate matter standards. Vehicle emissions are responsible for the vast majority of emissions in the San Diego region. VERY UNHEALTHY FOR EVERYONE UNHEALTHY FOR EVERYONE UNHEALTHY FOR SENSITIVE CROUPS Why is it important? Children who live in communities with high levels of pollution tend to have higher instances of asthma, often resulting in higher hospitalization rates, missed school and therefore, lower overall opportunity. ••-> Air pollution costs California more than $28 billion annually and $1,200 per person in Southern California due to lost worker productivity and public health costs. Pollution related illnesses also drive up health insurance premiums for individuals and employers. -> If climate models are accurate, we will see an increase of hot sunny days in our region, with an increase in ozone pollution, and corresponding health problems. San Diego Quality of Life Dashboard 2013 CONSCIENTIOUS RESIDENT Choose to walk, bike or take transit just one day a week to reduce traffic congestion and decrease pollution. For more ideas for change, visit www.equinoxcenter.org llllllii '03 '04 '05 '06 '07 '08 '09 What is the measure? Number of days air quality is considered unhealthy for children and older adults in San Diego County. ore Efficient Vehicles = Healthier Air Diego County Air Pollution Control District provides incentives to local businesses to replace high-emission diesel engines with more efficient, clean ones. In Fiscal Yeai 2011-2012, more than 200 diesel engines were cleaned up resulting in over 70 tons of smog-forming pollutants being removed from San Diego's air. www.equinoxCGnter.org/airqualitv HOW WE COMPARE Number of Unhealthy Air Quality Days for Older Adults & Children (Select Counties, 2011) Riverside | LosAngeles | SanDiego | San Mateo San Bernadino Sacramento San Francisco : EQUINOX CENTER, 2011; CLEAN JOBS Job Creation How are we doing? In 2011, environmental technology jobs represented 8 percent of all new jobs created in San Diego regional technology start-ups, a slight increase from 2010. The City of San Diego hosted 44 of the 96 new environmental technology start-up jobs in San Diego County over the last year. POLICYMAKER Create workforce training programs for lower skilled workers that align with clean tech employer needs and market demands. For more ideas for change, visit www.eq uinoxcenter.org Why is it important? -> Clean technology represents a growing sector of San Diego's economy and is central to our region's strategy for maintaining global competitiveness. -> The clean economy produces and generates demand for new goods and services that benefit our environment, fosters new supply chains, and allows innovators to generate new business models. -> The clean tech sector creates jobs of all education and skill levels and offers higher median wage than many other sectors. According to CONNECT, the average annualized wage for environmental technology jobs is $72,517. San Diego County Technology Start-Up Jobs (New Jobs 2011) Software Pharma/Bio/Medical Defense & Transportation Enviioninentai Teciinology Communications Computers Electronics Recreatltonal Goods NUMBER OF jOBS ^TCQUIMOJCCENTER 2012; CONNECT 2012 San Diego Quality of Life Dashboard 2013 What is the measure? Percent of new clean technology jobs out of the total number of new technology jobs created in the county. ^ Streetlight Retrofits Result in job Creation The San Diego Street Light Working Group focuses on saving energy and saving taxpayers money by retrofitting less efficient streetlights with newer LED technology. The collaboration, which includes 13 of San Diego County's 18 municipalities, has retrofitted 55,000streetlights, saved cities S3 million, and generated more than $25 million in local job creation for electrical contractors, suppliers and lighting manufacturers. www.eqiitnQxcenter.org/dfanjobs HOW WE COMPARE NUMBER OF NEW ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY START-UP JOBS BonsatI: 1 Carlsbad: 10 Encinitas: 22 Fallbrook: j Oceanside: 2 Poway: 2 San Diego: 44 San Marcos: 7 Vista: 6 CLIIMATE CHANGE Municipal Action on Climate Change How are we doing? Since the 2011 Dashboard was published, all jurisdictions have completed baseline greenhouse gas emissions inventories. In addition, many municipalities have joined together to prepare an adaption plan to address sea level rise. The region and jurisdictions would benefit from regular Inventory updates and a commitment to implementation and evaluation of climate action plans. One promising development Is the creation of a tool by USD's Energy Policy Initiative Center which will assist cities In planning to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. More information at: www.sandiego.edu/epic Why is it important? -> According to the San Diego based Climate Education Partners, 85 percent of residents of San Diego County believe climate change is happening, and over 60 percent believe it is caused mostly by human activities. The majority of residents are concerned about the impact of climate change on them personally. ~> Climate change could threaten San Diego's quality of life by causing longer and more frequent droughts, reducing water supplies. Increasing the risk of wildfires and causing the loss of coastal lands and beaches. • •> Statewide targets require our region to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which will result In improved air quality & public health, as well as energy savings. Municipal Action On Climate Change HOW WE COMPARE lurisdiction Baseline Reduction Inventory Targets Develop Plan implement Monftorlfig Plan & Evaluation Climate Adaptation Plan CARISBAD • ; CHULA VISTA • • CORONADO 0 DRMAR 0 0 EL CAJON ENCINITAS :o ESCONDIDO IMPERIAL BEACH LA MESA -..f...J -.-,.-1-..,-,.-,-....., W . ) . , ;•© LEMON GROVE NATIONAL CITY OCEANSIDE 1 'ZMZ POWAY .,:i:X-:i-i SAN OIEGO SANOIEGOCOUNTY SAN MARCOS -1+-*-: EE Zji.li SANTEE •:T,:jB.r — -SOLANA BEACH • 0 — - VISTA • 0 0 TE>, 2012: ICLEI, 2012: SUt DIEM; EOU •DATIOa. 2012 f THI CITY Of SAN OiECO IS PART QFrKC SAN DIECO BAT SEA LEVEL KI5C AOAPTATIOK STRATESrAMO IK AD0PTIN6 irS OWN CLIMATE MITIGATION AHD ADAPTATION What is the measure? Local government progress on climate mitigation and adaptation. ^ Green Taxis for the Airport In an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the Airport Authority entered into a unique public-private partnership with the California Center for Sustainable Energy, Mossy Toyota, taxi operators and the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System to bring the first green taxis to San Diego International Airport and the region. The Green Taxi Program provides incentives to taxi companies to switch to cleaner, more fuel-efficient taxis. More than 30 percent ofthe airport's taxi fleet has now switched to hybrids, saving taxi operatois over $12,000 a year In fuel costs and providing a 64 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions over a typical taxi model. The Airport is also committed to converting all airport taxis and shuttles to electric or clean- burning alternative fuels by 2017. wviw.eqiiinoxcentfit.otg/climatechange POLICY MAKER Streamline permitting for the Installation of low- carbon fueling Infrastructure and electric vehicle charging stations. For more Ideas for change, visit www.equinoxcenter.org How are we doing? The number of persons employed in San Diego began to increase in 2011, for the first time since 2008 with an increase of about 15,000 jobs. However, the growth rate ofthe working age population increased more than the growth rate of employment, indicating a still sluggish economy. The San Diego region did not see as much of an increase in employment as the Bay Area or Silicon Valley in 2011, but fared better than Los Angeles and the California average. Year over year job growth numbers in San Diego County show improvement, with unemployment hovering around 8.5 percent in the 3rd Quarter of 2012, which is below the California average but above the national average. 0% . Santa Clara ••San Francisco • I San Diego LosAngeles CaUfomia" Why is it important? -> A sustainable economy includes a diverse mix of industries and offers a variety of jobs to community members of varying skills and backgrounds. Employment is a key determinant of San Diego's economic prosperity. An adequate supply of jobs that support the housing, transportation, health, and recreational needs of local residents is vital to a healthy and sustainable quality of life. What is the measure? The number of persons employed annually in San Diego County compared to the working age population. San Diego Quality of Life Dashboard 2013 CONSCIENTIOUS RESIDENT Support a regional "buy local" campaign that results In more dollars circulating through the local economy, and creates job growth. For more ideas for change, visit www.equinoxcenter.org * CONNECT Launches "Look Near First" Campaign CONNECT's Nearsourcing Initiative was launched in 2012 to match San Diego companies in need of outsourcing with local manufacturers and production resources. The initiative encourages local innovation companies to "look near first" and ultimately keeps economic growth and job creation in our region. www.equinoxcenfer.org/prosperiiy Number of Persons Employed and Working Age Population, San Diego, 2002 - 2011 j- -i 4 15,000 jobs were gained between 2010 and 2011 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2D08 ENERGY Renewable Energy i How are we doing? In 2011, San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), the region's energy utility, reached its goal of increasing renewable energy sources to 20 percent of total sales. Compared to the previous year, solar installations per 100 residents in the county increased on average by 46 percent, due to substantial expansion of both residential and non-residential installations. •~> Increasing renewable energy improves air quality, reduces public health costs, and increases energy security for the region by diversifying our energy portfolio. The State of California's Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) currently requires electric utilities to increase procurement from eligible renewable energy resources to 33 percent by 2020. •-^ Distributed renewable energy sources like solar photovoltaic systems can produce energy during peak energy usage times (for example during hot, sunny weather when there is high demand for air conditioning) and thus help mitigate the need for rolling blackouts due to excess demand on the grid. 10 5an Diego Quality of Life Dashboard aoi3 POLICYMAKER Streamline the permitting systems across the region and revise housing and zoning codes to make it easier for residents, businesses, and utilities to install renewable energy sources. For more ideas for change, visit www.equinoxcenter.org What is the measure? Percent of total electricity supply generated from renewable sources for SDGSiE's service area. ^ Harnessing Wind Power in San Diego's Baclicountry The County Board of Supervisors approved the Tule Wind Project to be constructed in McCain Valley, consisting of 128 wind turbines which generate enough energy to power 60,000 homes. The project brings more local renewable energy to San Diego, helps the region meet renewable energy and climate goals, and creates 39 permanent jobs. wmrw.ecjuinoxcenter.org/energy 2011 SDG&E Renewable Energy Mix Solar PV; 0.07% Conduit Hydro; 0.50% Digestei Gas; 0.61% Landfill Gas; 5.78% Biomass; 10.46% Geothermal; 23.16% Wind; 59.42% Renewable Energy as a Percent of SDG&E Sales, 2011 30% i 1 1 i—i i )--t--~l i—-ferj^-'-^-M* 25% I Kilowatts of Solar Installed per 100 Residents. San Diego Jurisdictions, 2011 HOW WE COMPARE CARLSBAD CHULA VISTA CORONADO DEL MAR EL CAION ENCINITAS ESCONDIDO IMPERIAL BEACH UMESA LEMON GROVE NATIONAL CITY OCEANSIDE POWAY SAN DIEGO UNINCORPORATED SAN MARCOS SANTEE SOLANA BEACH VISTA Ncte: Vwse totals do not Include New Sofar Homes Partnership (NSHP) installs or SOG&r' Smart Community' owned systems. RESIDENTIAL NON-RESIDENTIAL IJ 14 15 11 ENERGY Residential Electricity Consumption How are we doing? Average per capita electricity consumption essentially stayed flat from 2010 to 2011. San Diego County residents consume around 10 percent less electricity per capita when compared to the state of California average, and slightly less than three comparable Southern California counties. What is the measure? Total per capita per day residential electricity use (does not include self generated energy, for example, rooftop solar on residences). POLICYMAKER Cities can promote energy efficiency financing programs such as Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) and invest in collaborathre efforts between different sectors to make installations and retrofits easier on the homeowner. For more ideas for change, visit www.equinoxcenter.org 12 San Diego Quality of Life Dashbd * Energy Efficiency a Cornerstone in New Mission Valley Development Sudberry Properties and SDG&E partnered to create a plan for Civita, a new mixed- use development in Mission Valley, to surpass current state efficiency standards by 15 percent The project's 4,800 residences will feature highly efficient fixtures and appliances. Why is it important? -> Meeting our energy needs through efficiency and conservation is 3 to 5 times less expensive than deriving energy from fossil fuels or renewable sources. "•> Using less energy reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Improves regional air quality and reduces public health spending resulting from air pollution. -> According to the Department of Defense, increasing energy efficiency and renewable energy will improve energy security by lessening the impacts of energy price fiuctuations, confiicts abroad, and natural disasters. -> Supporting programs and policies for energy retrofits bolsters the local clean tech economy and creates jobs that can't be outsourced. -> In 2013 the state of California will update the Buiiding Energy and Efficiency standards to reach a goal of zero net energy for residential buildings by 2020. I Per Capita Residential Energy Consumption Per Day by County, 2011 — T" T f r"'-\ r ! ^ 1 r t-—-- ': CALirORNIA TARGETI ! % t JO -,- reduction ty 2 I Ac reduction by 2 >20 .'3! 20% m 2030 ••• 1 1 20% m 2030 ••• 1 1 Y COMMISSION 2012; HOW WE COMPARE Daily Per Capita Residential Electricity Consumption, 2005 • 2011 San Bernadino 6.26 Riverside 8.17 Orange 5.99 Los Angeles ^^^^^^^ San Diego 5.82 ffffff f f f f ( ffftfl KWH/DAY R2012. 13 HOUSING AFFORDABILITY Income Allocation Toward Housing How are we doing? About half of all renters and homeowners in San Diego County are spending more than 30 percent of their income on housing. The numbers have improved slightly (by 3.3 percent for homeowners and 4 percent for renters) from the previous year. However, compared to other regions and the State of California average, more San Diego residents spend more of their income on housing. San Diego County experienced a net increase in the number of affordable housing units (3,377). with the largest increase relative to households at or below median income occurring in El Cajon. Though some ofthe indicators look better this year than last, we note that the number of homeless in the region increased by 8.6 percent from 2011 to 2012. Budget cuts at the state level and the loss of redevelopment agencies will affect the region's ability to add more affordable housing in the region going forward. 14 POLICYMAKER Reduce parking requirements for affordable housing developments near transit, similar to what the City of San Diego did in October 2012. Reduced parking requirements encourage developers to build affordable housing by reducing the costs of building, and also have the added benefit of encouraging residents to walk, bike or take public transit. For more ideas for change, visit www.equinoxcenter.org San Diego Quality of Life Dashboard 2013 Why is it important? According to Federal standards, households paying over 30 percent of annual income on housing are at higher financial risk. They also have less discretionary income to purchase other goods and services that support local economic growth. Housing costs influence our region's competitiveness against other metropolitan regions in attracting or retaining businesses and a talented workforce. When housing in core areas is not affordable, people move to less expensive areas, usually farther away from jobs and services. This increases traffic congestion and transportation costs in addition to negatively impacting air quality. What is the measure? The percent of residents in the San Diego region who spend more than 30 percent of gross income on housing. ^ Revitalizing Barrio Logan While Providing Affordable Housing Options e Mercado del Barrio Project in Barrio Logan is a 6.8 acre mixed-use residential and commercial district that provides affordable housing to 92 families white eliminating bllgtit in a local enterprise zone. The project utilizes Smart Growth and LEED design principles and is located near public transportation, downtown jobs, and Chicano Park, www.equinoxcenter.org/housing UTm HOW WE COMPARE Percent of Households That Can Afford to Purchase Median Priced Home •PV San Francisco SanDiego LosAngeles Percent of Occupants Spending 30% or More of income on Housing, Select Regions, 2011 Designated Affordable Housing Units San Diego Jurisdictions, 2011 Carlsbad Ctiula Vista Coronado Del Mar El Caion Encinitas | Escondido UNITS PER 1000 HOUSEHOLDS UNDER MEDIAN INCOME 15 LAND USE Park Access How are we doing? Due to data constraints, in 2012 we had to omit our conserved lands indicator and develop a new baseline for our parks access indicator. According to the most recent data, on average there are 473 acres of accessible park per 1,000 people in San Diego County. The National Recreation and Parks Association recommends 10 acres of park space per 1,000 residents. While our region has significant parks assets, some parts ofthe county are still considered "park poor" by national standards (less than 3 acres of park per 1,000 residents). Why is it important? -> Access to parks and open space areas is a selling point for local companies who are working to retain and attract workforce talent for our innovation economy. -> Green spaces appeal to tourists and locals alike, increase nearby property values, and subsequently contribute to our regional economy. -> Restoring and utilizing urban green space, like canyons and riparian areas, cleans up and makes our neighborhoods safer, and provides outdoor educational and recreational opportunities in otherwise densely urbanized areas. -> Conserved lands and green spaces help preserve wildlife habitat, improve air quality, provide flood and water pollution controL and mitigate against climate change. 16 San Diego Quality of Life Dashboard 2013 POLICYMAKER Encourage joint use agreements and partnering to leverage existing green spaces at schools and public facilities, especiaUy in "park poor" neighborhoods. For more ideas for change, visit www.equinoxcenter.org Solana Beach Del Mar What is the measure? The number of acres of park (including parks, schoolyards, beaches, forests, mountains and canyons with public access) per 1,000 residents. itectingSan Diego's Unique yons for Public Use In November 2012, the San Diego City Council designated 6,600 acres of City-owned canyons and open space for permanent protection. Because of the City's action, and the work of nonprofit groups like San Diego Canyonlands who advocated for this designation, nearly 10 square miles of open space, an area 8 times the size of Balboa Park, will be available to urban residents to enjoy. www.eqainoxcenter.org/land-use San Diego County Park Access, 2012 El Cajon Lemon Grove Coronado National City' 0 1 2 I Miles •ttatDfi Source. SANDAG Population Estimates 2012, American Comnnunity Survey Income Estimates 2006 - 2010, SANDAG Conserved Lands 2012, SANGIS Park Layers 2012, Equinox Center 2012 Additional Map Layers from SanGIS 9 m Imperial BeacK'.. LAND USE Residential Development How are we doing? Because of an adjustment to SANDAG data due to benchmarking against the 2010 Census, there is a large jump in residential acreage numbers and thus in our indicator for this year. It is impossible to compare 2012 numbers to 2011 numbers for that reason, but we have included them here for future reference. The number of building permits increased slightly from 2011-2012, and the vast majority of homes being built continue to be multi-family units which, over time, should result in smaller amounts of land being developed per 100 new residents. POLICYMAKER Streamline permitting, and revise zoning ordinances and design guidelines to encourage infill development in town centers or urban areas. For more ideas for change, visit vvww.equinoxcenter.org What is the measure? The number of acres developed or zoned for residential use for every additional 100 persons in San Diego County. ^ Creating a Livable, Walkable Downtown Lemon Grove i emon Grove is redeveloping their downtown by creating a central gathering place featuring higlitights like energy producing windmills, solar trees and a neighborhood farmer's market. Redevelopment plans prioritize a mixed-use development with retail and hve stories of affordable housing. Why is it important? ••> SANDAG estimates that San Diego County will need approximately 230,000 new housing units by 2030 and by that time we will have consumed 89 percent of all developable land within the region. Thoughtful land use development, such as placing residential communities near job centers, can save residents money in fuel costs by reducing vehicle miles traveled and improve air quality. -> Well-designed, strategic density of land use reduces water and electricity consumption, and ensures that future generations will have access to open spaces. Change In Population vs. Change in Residential Land, San Diego County TRANSPORTATION Transit Ridership How are we doing? The percent of San Diego's population that commutes to work on public transit declined slightly by 0.25 percent from 2010 to 2011, dropping farther behind cities like Portland and Los Angeles, which both saw an increase in the percent of commuters using public transit. The number of San Diegans who drive alone to work remains a high 76 percent. The average number of hours of delay per auto commuter also rose from 2009 to 2010. BUSINESS LEADER To encourage employees to bike to work, provide cyclist-friendly infrastructure, such as bicycle parking, lockers and showers for employees. Encourage employee carpooling through Incentivized ride share programs. For more ideas for change, visit www.equinoxcenter.org ^ Flexible Buses Serving Smaller Communities Residents in Carlsbad, Encinitas, Ramona and Solana Beach have access to a new, flexible transit option from North County Transit District, designed to replace fixed loutes that had been eliminated. The FLEX system allows customers to travel anywhere in the service Why is it important? -> High performing public transit, with strong connectivity between transit hubs, residential areas and work centers can provide a cost- effective transportation alternative for San Diego County residents of all ages and economic backgrounds. -> The use of transit services can reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality. What is the measure? The percent of the population that commutes to work via public transit. HOW WE COMPARE % of Population Commuting to Work Via Transit for 2011 (Select Regions). Dallas 1.1,1,% San Diego 3.03% L.A. 6.23% ^^^^^^^^^^ i||l|l[xU||y Portland "X'A'X:A'A! 6.33% Transportation to Work (San Diego, 2011) Worked at Home; 6% Taxi Cab, Motorcycle, Bicycle, or Other; 2% Walked; 3% Public Transportation; 3% Carpooled; 10% Drove Alone; 76% Annual Hours of Delay, Per Autocommuter San Diego Urban Area, 1982 • 2010 \ - -f~^ 1 i ll L r 1—(-—' r ll •Sfi '90 '9; '94 'g6 '9ff ' II EQUIIHIX CEHTCtt 2012; T f TMHf PmT«TtO« 19 TRANSPORTATION Vehicle Miles Traveled How are we doing? Average highway vehicle miles traveled (VMT) declined slightly from 2010 to 2011, primarily due to gas prices. In 2010, we saw a 25 percent reduction in gas prices, which resulted in travelers driving longer distances. As gas prices rose in 2011, drivers reduced their driving slightly. San Diego VMT numbers remain higher than the state average and higher even than LosAngeles County's. What is the measure? Per capita vehicle miles traveled (VMI) is an estimate (based on actual data) ofthe average number of freeway miles driven by an individual in San Diego County on a daily basis. 20 San Diego Quality of Life Dashboard POLICYMAKER Improve vehicle parking and bicycle infrastructure at transit hubs to make the "last mile" of connectivity easy for commuters. For more ideas for change, visit www.equinoxcenter.org Why is it important? -> San Diego's high VMT results in traffic congestion, air pollution, noise pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions, and leads to increased fuel costs for drivers. •-^ Decreasing VMT by encouraging mixed use development, and improving walking and cycling infrastructure engenders a stronger connection between people and their environments, encourages people to work and spend money locally, and allows people to support their local economies. •-> Senate Bill 375 (2008) committed California to enact measures that cut vehicle miles traveled in order to decrease greenhouse gas emissions. Total Dally Vehicle Miles Traveled All Roads Excluding State Highways San 1.71% Carlsbad 3.36% Chula Vista 0.00% e Coronado 92.5% 0 Del Mar 3.37% 0 El Cajon 0.00% 0 Encinitas 0 Escondido 0.00% 0 Imperial Beach 7.31% 0 La Mesa 33-9% 0 Lemon Grove 4.72% 0 National City 5.53% 0 Oceanside 0,37% 0 SanDlegc 0.29% 0 Poway 7.12% 0 San Marcos 22.5% 0 Santee 0.00% © Solana Beach 2.55% © Vista 2.48% 0 Unincorporated percent Increase fiiecivase from the pfvvlous year. TOTAL VMT (THOUSANDS) Highway Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT), Select Regions, 2010 and 2011 HOW WE COMPARE * Rolling Out the Red Carpet for Cyclists The Encinitas Bike and Pedestrian Committee organized "Two Wheel Thursdays" to encourage all level of cyclists to get on their bikes for a safe, social evening ride around downtown Encinitas, with stops at local businesses for refreshments. Other cities in the region such as Solana Beach, Carlsbad, and the City of San Diego have also been enhancing cycling infrastructure and creating Bicycle Friendly Business Districts. In 2012, the City of San Diego introduced the region's first bike sharing program. www.f/qijinQxcei5ter,0fg/trar sport at ton California SD County Orange County LA County SF County LA County SF County I OCMRTMCNTO WASTE Per Capita Waste Disposal How are we doing? Average waste disposal in San Diego County declined slightly from 2010 to 2011 but San Diego County's average daily per capita waste disposal continues to be higher than the California statewide average and surrounding counties, with the exception of Orange County. Why is it important? Landfills in Orange County will not accept our waste after 2016, and some of our own landfills are close to being at capacity. -> Waste disposal generates greenhouse gas emissions and other pollution that affects air and water quality. -> More than half of waste disposed of at landfills could be composted, recycled or reused. Improved waste management would extend the life of our landfills, which are difficult to site and expensive to build. -> Redesigning and restructuring products or manufacturing processes to reduce or reuse waste, and increasing recycling and composting efforts moves us toward a more sustainable approach to resource use and encourages new jobs In these areas. POLICYMAKER Expand commercial food waste recycling programs in the region and consider expansion into residential curbside pickup, as has been done successfully in Portland, Oregon and several other California counties. For more ideas for change, visit www.equinoxcenter.org HOW WE COMPARE San Diego County's average daily per capita waste disposal continues to be slightly higher than the California statewide average: Avg Waste (LBS) Disposed Per Capita Per Day Select Regions of California, 2011 Avg Waste Per Capita Per Day California State & San Diego County, 2011 ^ 6.01 5.43 6-20 nniiiiiiii SanDiego Los Angeles Oiai^e Counly Riverside ^tsBarbtra SBcramento H ™ j , ! L 04 06 08 & RGCOVER, 2012 What is the measure? Average per capita number of pounds of solid waste disposed of each day In San Diego County: includes waste that is brought to landfills, incinerated, and exported, and reflects both residential and commercial waste. It does not include waste that has been recycled. Avg Waste (LBS) Disposed Per Capita Per Day, San Diego County Jurisdictions 2011 0.12 LBS O 0.28 LBS O •3.02 LES O 0.03 LBS O 0.58 LBS O -0,72 i-PS © 2 2 San Diego Quality of Life Dashboard 2013 ^ Putting an End to Cigarette Butts on Our Beaches in an effort to prevent the most commonly littered item froin reaching San Diego County beaches, I Love a Clean San Diego and the Surfrider Foundation have launched fhe Cigarette Litter Prevention Program. The program has installed ash can collectors on street posts and lamps in Oceanside, La Mesa, and North Park. In their most successful month so far they were able to coUect approximately 2,500 cigarette butts. CARLSBAD CHULA VISTA CORONADO DELMAR EL CAJON ENCINITAS ESCONDIDO IMPERIAL BEACH LA MESA LEMON GROVE NATIONAL CITY OCEANSIDE POWAY SAN OIEGO UNINCORPORATED SAN MARCOS SANTEE SOUNA BEACH VISTA -0.2! ! • -0.82 -0.43 •0.0^. : •0.16 ' •0.17 U •0.13 LBS © 0.41 LBS O •1.23 I r. ~ 0.09 I- •0.33 I ••• 0.14 LBS O •0.30 LBS © WASTE (IBS) Green arrows indicate a decrease In average waste disposal froi In 2011,13 San Diego County jurisdictions decreased average daily waste per capita as compared with only seven jurisdictions In 2010. s indicate an increase. 23 WATER! i Consumption How are we doing? Per capita municipal and industrial water use increased by about 2 percent, from 130 gallons per day to 133 gallons per day from 2011-2012. Average per capita water use increased in 16 of the 24 water districts in San Diego County. Since over 50 percent of all residential water consumption in the region is used for landscaping, the increase in use is due in part to dryer weather in 2012 compared to 2011. Why is it important? The San Diego region currently imports about 70 percent of its water from the Colorado River and Northern California, but extended droughts, aging infrastructure, legal and regulatory concerns, and the potential for earthquakes put this supply at risk. -•> San Diego's semi-arid climate means local water sources are scarce, yet our growing population, biotech and pharmaceutical companies, and high- value agricultural sector depend upon a consistent, clean water supply to thrive. Regional water rates continue to climb due to increasing costs of imported water, construction and financing costs. ••-> California state law SBX7-7 requires urban water suppliers to achieve a 20 percent reduction in per capita water use by 2020. Recent studies at Scripps Institute of Oceanography show that the Colorado River will not be able to support its scheduled exports to California if climate models are accurate. San Diego Quality of Life Dashboard 2013 POLICYMAKER Employ steeply tiered pricing structures that incentivize conservation and discourage the waste of water and consider seasonal pricing to take into account supply shortages at certain times of year. For more Ideas for change, visit www.equinoxcenter.org What is the measure? The average amount of water consumed per person each day in San Diego County (municipal and industrial). This number includes residential, commercial and industrial consumption (minus recycled water) divided by the population ofthe service area. ^ Fixing Leaks in Coronado and Imperial Beach The Cities of Coronado and Imperial Beach partnered with Californ American Water Company and the EPA to promote "Fix a Leak" week, encouraging residents to check household plumbing fixtures and irrigation systems for leaks. Local data suggests that on average 12 percent of water used Indoors In San Diego County is lost to leaks. www.equinoxcerrter.org,/water I A 2012 Equinox Center study on water effidency in single family homes found that we could be using water 20 to 30 percent more efficiently than what water managers project over the next 20 years, primarily by using existing technologies. To read more, visit www.equinoxcenter.org/media- center/publica tions.html Daily Per Person Municipal & Industrial Water Use by Water District, 2012 • DAILY USE PES PERSON IN&I WATEH WITHOUT RECYCLED (GALLONS) Municipal & Industrial Water Use in Gallons Per Day, 2012 SHADING FROM LIGHT TQ DARK BLUE SHOWS LESS TO MORE WATER CONSUMPTION. (g(@@(?XiXD@8^IXiXS»2)®8KSl®^ MAP LOCATIONS t RECYCUD AND C Note: Camp Pendleton, Del Mar, and Yulma are exempt from having to set targets. National City and South Bay Irrigation District together make up the Sweetwater Authority (3) How are we doing? HOW WE COMPARE San Diego County's total number of closures and advisories increased from 2010 to 2011. One cause of increased beach closures in San Diego is the September electricity blackout that caused two sewage pumps to fail and contaminate a lagoon and river that feed into the ocean. Despite the higher closures and advisories, 97 percent of San Diego's beaches earned A or B marks during dry weather from Heal the Bay, although only 76 percent did during wet weather. San Diego's water quality monitoring continues to suffer setbacks due to inefficient testing methods and inaccurate or unavailable data. Percentage of Beaches Earning A or B Marks Why is it important? -> Local beaches improve the quality of life of San Diegans and draw tourists from around the globe. In 2011 alone, 31 million tourists spent $7.5 billion dollars at San Diego's businesses. -> Activities upstream generate pollutants that flow into our creeks, rivers, bays, and oceans through irrigation and storm water runoff, threatening the health of local residents that swim in contaminated waters as well as the health of our natural areas. -> Current methods of beach bacterial testing require long incubation periods with the result that beaches with harmful levels of bacteria often remain open while the contamination is present and then closed after the short-lived sources of contamination have already dispersed. 26 San Diego Quality of Life Dashboard 2013 BUSINESS LEADER Favor porous paving materials In parking lots and on walkways in order to improve water filtration and decrease wet weather and Irrigation runoff. For more ideas for change, visit www.equinoxcenter.org San Diego Los Angeles San Francisco Dty Summer Weather ////// mill Wet Weather Beach Advisories and Closures in Beach Mile Days (BMD), San Diego County, 2005 - 2011 What is the measure? The number of days San Diego beaches were closed or posted with advisories because of health risks on contact with water, as measured in beach mile days. (Beach Mile Days = # of days x length of beach posted with an advisory or closed.) * UCSD*s Green Roof Reduces Polluted Runoff The roof of the Charles David Keeling Apartments on the campus of U.C. San Diego contains a 4,ooo-f- plant garden that absorbs and naturally filters rainwater and reuses its own irrigation water on-site, in addition to supporting biodiversity and acting as natural insulation. Lv/jv?.-ipi'^t,water Total Number of Beach Closures and Advisories in 2011 « NONE # 1-10 • 10-30 • IWORE THAN 30 PRECIPITATION CLOSURES ADVISORIES '05 *o6 '07 '08 '09 27 ORGANIZATIONS CONSULTED ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Agrl Service, Inc. American Community Survey American Water Co. www.agriservicemc.comfindex.html www. census.gov/acsMww www.omwater.com We are grateful for our growing network of talented volunteers who help Equinox Center achieve its mission. Bureau of Labor Statistics www.bls.gov Equinox Center Steward's Research and Communications CaUfornia Association of Realtors (CAR) ' www.car.org Board of Directors Council Policy Task Force Task Force California Center for Sustainable Energy (CCSE) www. energycenter.org Robert Bingham Marty Brown Scott Anders Brace BIgelow California Department of Finance www.dof.ca.gov Marty Brown Aaron and Lori Contorer Marty Brown Larry Marcus California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development www.oshpd.ca.gov Elcelyx Therapeutics Randall Greenslate Martyn Collins Tricia Whittemore Califomia Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecyde) California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) www.calrecycle.ca.gov www.dot.ca.gov Charles Butler American Faucet and Scott Grimes/Orca Fund Aaron Contorer Pam Hardy CaUfornia Department of Water Resources • www.water.ca.gov/urbanwatermanagement Coatings Corporation Larry Marcus Scott Grimes Scott Tritt California Energy Commission www.energy.ca.gov Aaron Contorer Contorer Foundation Scott Peters and Lynn Gorguze Cynthia Morgan Melanie Venter CaUfornia Public UtiUties Commisskin www.cpuc.ca.gov/puc Ann Hunter-Welborn Andrew Narwold CleanTECH San Diego www.cleantechsandieog.org Trevor Callan (Chairman) Callan Capital Lori Pfeiler Dashboard CONNECT www.connect.org Rol Ewell Strategic Keith Solar Volunteers County of San Diego www.sdcounty.ca.gov SeaWorld Parks Advisors Dr. Mark Thiemens Kirby Brady Climate Education Partners www.sandiego.edu/climate and Entertainment Bruce Bekkar Blake Tye Billy Brownlow Energy PoUcy Initiative Center (EPIC), University of San Diego www.sandiego.edu/epic Scott Grimes Orca Fund Reed Caldwell Blake Tye Sarah Harvey Environmental Health Coalition www.environmentalhealth.org Scott Grimes Orca Fund Reed Caldwell Leaders 2020 Sarah Harvey Greenlnfo Network www.greeninfo.org Phyllis Huckabee lared Criscuolo Leaders 2020 Rita Kreig Heal the Bay www.healthebay.org Quidel Corporation Malcolm Davles Steering Committee Kristlne Schindler ICLEI - Locat Governments for Sustainability USA www.icleiusa.org Bill Malloy Malloy and Company Janle DeCelles KIrby Brady Andrew Talbert Move San Diego www. movesandiego.org Lori Pfeiler San Diego Habitat Paul Eichen Sarah Dawe National Association of Home Builders vmw. nahb.com Lori Pfeiler San Diego Habitat leremy Hayden Kyle Dupree National Technical Information Service (NTIS) www.ntis.gov for Humanity Katherine Kennedy Stephen Heverly National Unhrersity System Institute for PoUcy Research www.nusinstitute.org Dane Chapin Ellen Kirk Georgette Kakridas North County Transit District www.gonctd.com USAopoly David Lynn Pauline Ma Port of San Diego www.portofsandiego.org Melanie Venter David Lynn Jocelyn Maggari Regional Task Force on the Homeless www.rtfhsd.org Venter PR Larry Marcus Jocelyn Maggari San Diego Association of Govemments (SANDAG) www.sandag.org Marion Paul Chandler Martin San Diego Canyonlands www.sdcanyonlands.org Equinox Diane Rosenberg Sterling McHale San Diego Coastkeeper www.sdcoastkeeper.org Center Staff Blake Tye Anthony Mendiola San Diego County Air Pollution Control District www.sdapcd.org/index.html Ann Tartre OUf Walter Melanie Venter San Diego County Water Authority www.sdcwa.org Executive Director OUf Walter San Diego Economic Development Corporation www.sandiegobusiness.org Sarah Benson Communications Director San Diego Gas & Electric www.sdge. com/index Sarah Benson Communications Director San Diego Geographic 1 nformation Source (SanGIS) vfww.sangis.org Racfiel Terrenes Development Associate San Diego Housing Federation www. housingsandiego.org Racfiel Terrenes Development Associate San Diego International Airport Autfiorlty www.san.org Texas Transportation Institute www.tti.tamu.edu The San Diego Foundation www.sdfoundation.org U.S. Census Bureau www.census.gov U.S. Emrironmental Protection Agency www.epa.gov Walk San Diego www. walksandiego.org 28 San Diego Quality of Life Dashboard 2013 29 SUPPORTERS We gratefully acknowledge the following organizations, companies and individuals for their support of Equinox Center and the San Diego Regional Quality of Life Dashboard. Individuals making gifts of $500 or more and companies making gifts of $1,000 or more are listed on this page. Brown Family Trust ORCA FUND A Sempra Energy utility* Here for you, every day." CONTORER FOUNDATION ll UnioiiBank Commitment To CommUNITY The Parker Foundation Gerald T. and Inez Grant Parker AMN Healthcare Dane and Katherine Chapin David Brown Scott Benson Bob and Darcy Bingham Eric and jenni Busboom Dane and Katherine Chapin Charles and Susan Butler Ellis Family Foundation Roi Ewell Todd Gutschow Phyllis Huckabee Katherine Kennedy Ellen Kirl< William and Shenell Malloy Mary Matava Scott Peters and Lynn Gorguze Lori Pfeiler Lisa Shaffer Melanie Venter QUALCO/WW Larry Marcus Family Fund SeaWorld ADVENTURE PARKS Hiiiiter EQUINOX CENTER 545 Second Street, Suite 3 Encinitas CA 92024 760-230-2960 www.equinoxcenter.org Buchanan Ingersdl ABooneypc CALLAN CAPITAJL CH^f«m Solutions for Vifeai0i Hattie Ettinger Conservation Fund Mi, To inquire about underwriting opportunities and other ways to support Equinox Center's work, contact us at 760-230-2960 or communications@equinoxcenter.org. Unified Port o/San Diego MALLOY & COMPANY te NEWS pProcopio #at&t Report design by Parallax Branding+Interactive www.thinkparallax.com ^PARALLAX Branding + Interactive Printed January 2013 on recycled paper with soy based ink. San Diego Regional Quality of Life Dashboard Key Findings Presented to Carlsbad City Council by Lani Lutar and Sarah Benson May 9, 2013 Equinox Center: • non-partisan •balanced •solutions to regional growth 2013 Dashboard: Cautious Hope Economic Prosperity 15,000 Jobs gained in 2011 Job Growth Rate in 2012 =1.9% 8% of new technology jobs in clean tech sector San Diego County New Start Up Jobs (2011) Air Quality Improved 77% decrease in number of unhealthy days over past decade. From 19 days to 13 in past year. Renewable Energy In Carlsbad: an increase of 28% in Kw solar installed per 100 residents Carlsbad increased 28% from 2011 to 2012; 460 residential installations. Transportation and Traffic Traffic delays on the rise = 37 hours/year 13.6 San Diego: 13.6 Orange County: 12.9 Los Angeles: 10.7 Highway vehicle miles traveled per capita per day Housing Affordability Half of all renters and homeowners spend 1/3 of income on housing Homelessness increased by 8.6% in 2012 Beach Water Quality Worsened over past couple of years Problematic in South County Water Consumption On the rise = 133 gallons/person/day (county wide) Carlsbad M.W.D. consumption was 170 gallons per person per day! (2012, does not include recycled) Bright Spots in the Region •Flexible bus service through NCTD’s FLEX system helps encourage more local transit ridership to the train station and shopping areas in your community. 619-615-2973 communcations@equinoxcenter.org www.equinoxcenter.org Questions?