This ordinance requires that new residential building construction projects and building addition projects to meet specific energy performance standards. The ordinance creates energy performance standards for the areas of cooling equipment, heating equipment, duct work, windows, water heaters, and lighting. Homeowners should be provided with an owner's manual that includes information on the house's green features. The ordinance also establishes ventilation standards to limit people's exposure to contaminants. In addition, the ordinance creates a plan to divert construction, demolition, and land clearing materials from landfill disposal by requiring the waste to be salvaged, reused, or recycled.

A resolution setting out guidelines requiring recipients of $100,000 or more of city economic development assistance in one year to pay employees a living wage, defined as 110% of the federal poverty level for a family of four, or 100% of poverty line for companies who provide health insurance. In addition, at least 60%of new jobs created as a result of such assistance must go to St. Paul residents.