One of Michele’s first tasks was to bring all City departments together to discuss the implementation of the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement, which Mayor Lou Ann Palmer signed August 1, 2007.  This group of senior staff members, known as the Environmental Management Task Force, began meeting in October with the hope of reducing the City’s pollution and increasing its energy efficiency.  The task force’s primary goal is to reduce internal carbon emissions by 7% within the next four years.  In an

effort to achieve its goals, the City joined the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) this past summer.

 

On January 4^th, the City Commission held its first ever workshop on sustainability. Experts from Sarasota and Chicago joined the discussion at City Hall including, Mary Ann Smith, Chicago Alderman 48^th ward; Michael Carlson, AIA, LEED accredited professional; Albert Joerger, PhD; Melissa Meehan, Southeast Coastal Organizer for the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy; and Ken Shapiro, Representative, Florida Green Building Coalition.  To watch the workshop click here:

Video.

 

The City is looking forward to engaging citizens and providing education about sustainability and green issues.  The City worked with the local League of Women Voters and Sarasota Network for Climate Action to host a public educational forum, last August, on global climate change at the local library.   Stay tuned for more forums.

 

For more information on the City’s green initiatives, visit yourgreencity.sarasotagov.com

 

The purchase of alternative fuel vehicles was first approved by the City Commission in 2004.  By Spring 2005, the City acquired two hybrid vehicles.

 

The City now has five hybrids:   three Toyota Priuses and two Ford Escapes.  All five run on a combination of gasoline and electricity.  The Priuses and Escapes are used by employees within the Code Compliance and Public Works Departments. 

 

More hybrids may be added to the City’s fleet as replacement vehicles are needed.

(‘Green Initiatives’ - Continued)

Five alternative fuel vehicles are in the City of Sarasota fleet, including this Toyota Prius.

It’s February….Time to plan your

SPRING GARDEN!

 

 

 

 

 

 

· Plant trees to reduce carbon dioxide emissions

 

· Plant native vegetation to reduce exotic plant encroachment and improve wildlife habitats

 

· Reduce your usage of pesticides and fertilizers

 

· Do not dispose of oils, chemicals or pollutants on the ground

Here are a few green friendly tips

from the City’s Environmental Coordinator:

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Fees at the Skate Park are $5 for a daily pass or $30 for an annual pass.

Reserve the Skate Park

Looking for a unique party location for your youngster’s next celebration?  Host a private party at the Sarasota Skate Park!  The rental fee is $150 for up to 15 skaters for two hours.  Each additional skater is $10 each.  Reservations are required at least two weeks in advance.  Contact Susan Martin or call 941-954-4101 ext. 5403

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