The EcoDevelopment Kit serves as s a roadmap to assist DIY clients that Marilyn coaches, as well as clients who acquire her services for a comprehensive project, or those that want something in between and hire Marilyn for a la carte assistance. Designed to navigate any type of project, commercial, agricultural, industrial, remodel, tenant improvement, addition, and/or new residential construction, this package fulfills your project needs from inception through completion.
The EcoDevelopment Kit includes:
- Collection of all information that is readily available on the property to give the client an enhanced vision of the property for developing talking papers, including aerial photo of project site, USGS map, County Surveyors documents, jurisdiction utility offices documents, and prior permits and reports
- “Talking papers” that include 1) graphic description illustrating what improvements the client wants on the property 2) written description of what the project will be (ex. expand a warehouse, remodel portion of existing commercial building, add a guest house). These papers are essential as a starting point for gaining bids from contractors.
- Owner’s “vision papers”, which help communicate the project to the client and eventually the architect.
- Identifying “pockets of freedom”, jurisdictions that offer the option to build alternative buildings with the least amount of restrictions and inspections, enabling freedom in design and construction
- Obtaining building permits
- Obtaining entitlement permits and navigating public hearings
- Obtaining permission of private associations
- Due diligence and researching permits including Planning Department, Fire Marshall, Public Works/Environmental Health, and handicap codes
- Alternative energy sources, water catchment, alternative sanitation systems, emergency services access, etc.
- Assembling and managing an expert green team of consultants
- Masterplan (in phases) making sure all pieces come together seamlessly
- Assembling and managing team for LEED certification
- Determining if the project qualifies for incentives and rebates from the State, utility providers, and other entities, and how to qualify, apply, and ensure that these incentives are received.
- Identifying and managing construction costs including permits, infrastructure, furnishings, alternative energy and sanitation systems, landscaping, etc.
- Stakeholder management
- Preparation of Operation Manual for LEED certified projects, which assist in maintaining the building after completion and into the future