The Florida League of Cities awarded the Town of Cutler Bay with the Environmental Stewardship Award for its Go Green Initiative, and specifically for its revolutionary Property Assessed Clean Energy District (PACE) Program. The Town was the first governmental entity in Miami-Dade County to achieve the Florida Green Building Coalition’s Silver Certification. WSH Associate Chad S. Friedman worked with the Town on its Green Initiative from its inception, drafting legislation at the state and county level and researching similar programs. The PACE Program is the country’s first partnership among cities aimed at reducing their carbon footprint. Over the next five years, the program is predicted to reduce carbon dioxide output by more than 35,000 metric tons, as well as stimulate the local economy by $735 million and create 4,500 jobs.
As a member of the Firm’s Private Land Use and Zoning Group, Chad provides counsel to owners, developers, investors and lenders throughout South Florida in land use and zoning matters. He has represented commercial and residential developers. Chad is also a member of our Sustainable Development Group, and advises private companies and governmental agencies on how to meet higher standards in green building practices. The Sustainable Development Group works in tandem with our Environmental Law Group, chaired by Partner Clifford A. Schulman, provide experience and knowledge on various environmental regulations and help government clients achieve a balance between economic needs and environmental protection.
Author(s): Brooke P. Dolara
