Cincinnati City Council has adopted a motion that directs city administration to create a green roof incentive and present it at the next council meeting on August 6.

In a statement accompanying the motion, Councilmember Chris Bortz says that the program could be structured as a no interest or low interest loan that could be repaid as the building owner realizes the cost savings.

"Short term, an extensive green roof will add roughly $20-$25/SF over the cost of a traditional roof system," he says. "Longer term, a green roof will cost the owner less than a traditional roof system."

Bortz says that green roofs last two to three times longer than a traditional high-quality roof system and four to six times longer than the average newly-built roof.

"Other savings for the owner are also realized by reduced energy demand, reduced stormwater runoff, improved indoor air quality, and a quieter interior setting," Bortz says.

Councilmember Chris Monzel was the lone "no" vote.

Photo credit: "Roof garden" by user