The YMCA’s application, presented by Helio Rosa, vice president of facilities and real estate, was a focal point of the meeting. It covers seven buildings across neighborhoods like Dorchester and Fenway. The application met all eligibility criteria. Board members expressed support, noting the straightforward nature of the application, and voted unanimously in favor, instructing the environment department to issue a written decision within seven days.

Another topic was the compliance rates under Berto, where larger buildings showed better compliance than smaller ones. Aiden Ken provided insights into the compliance landscape for the 2024 reporting year based on 2023 data. Over 3,600 buildings are required to meet the 2025 emissions limit, with approximately 85% already compliant. However, around 170 buildings that are not compliant could potentially meet the limit by utilizing renewable electricity options. About 75 to 80 buildings will need alternative compliance payments or other measures.

Concerns were raised about whether public-owned buildings, including those of the city and the Boston Housing Authority, are on track to meet upcoming emissions limits. The Berto team is engaging with the Boston Housing Authority to ensure they receive the necessary support for compliance.

Efforts to enhance engagement with condo associations and smaller building owners were a focus, as these groups showed lower compliance rates. The board acknowledged the challenges in reaching condo associations due to their organizational structure and limitations in available contact information. A comprehensive handbook for condo associations was developed, and a webinar was conducted to promote it. Further outreach strategies included mailings and accessing lobby areas of buildings to gather contact information.

The board also addressed the implications of compliance deadlines for building portfolios and individual condos. Buildings failing to report by the January 6 deadline risk facing compliance difficulties. Alternative compliance options, such as renewable energy certificates, were discussed, but the board emphasized understanding emissions data before opting for hardship compliance.

An administrative update revealed that 21 building portfolio applications had been received, though no new submissions for individual compliance or hardship plans were reported. The Equitable Emissions Investment Fund awards are underway, with grant packages sent to recipients. The Building Decarbonization Advisor Program, allocated $500,000, aims to assist building owners with decarbonization plans.