Now that the STARS 2.0 Public Comment Period is open and many have had a chance to look at the review documents, it seems like a good opportunity to provide some guidance for those of you that would like to participate but are not sure where to begin.

The STARS Technical Manual is a large document and reviewing it as a whole can be somewhat daunting. A couple of resources have been created to help break down and explain the proposed changes. An overview of major changes being proposed is available on the STARS website and specific changes are outlined more fully in the Summary of Proposed Changes document. In addition, staff have posted a webinar covering the process of submitting feedback, as well as explanations of the major changes being proposed.

After reviewing the supporting materials, there are two ways to participate (both are encouraged):

1. Submit one or more comments using the online form. You can submit a comment on a single credit or on an entire STARS subcategory and you may return to the form as many times as you wish. If your time is limited, one approach would be to pick an area of particular interest and focus your review and feedback there. For example, some of the more substantial changes being proposed are in the Curriculum, Climate, Grounds, Water, Planning & Coordination, Diversity & Affordability, Investment, and Public Engagement subcategories.

2. Complete the System-Wide Issues Survey. This is a brief, six-item survey covering high-level changes being considered as part of the technical development process. It represents an opportunity to weigh in on the overall structure of STARS moving forward.

By way of reminder, the public comment period will close November 30, so comment early and often!

The draft of STARS 2.0 includes some exciting new ideas and credits and reflects a lot of thoughtful discussion and feedback on the part of STARS Participants, Technical Advisors, Steering Committee members, and others. Your participation in the Public Comment Period will help make the final version of STARS 2.0 that much stronger.