Kingston government this Tuesday released a draft Climate Action Plan (CAP) that at 268 pages may set a record for length of a single city document. According to a press release, this draft CAP includes recommendations for comprehensive policies and programs that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance operational and energy efficiencies, reduce energy costs, support local job growth, and adapt to a changing climate while improving quality of life, saving taxpayer dollars, and promoting social justice.
That’s an extensive agenda. The plan says its adoption will create “green” jobs and address many initiatives “under the broad umbrella of sustainability.”
Mayor Shayne Gallo praised the efforts of the CAC and the Kingston Climate Smart and Green Jobs Community Task Force. “It is my hope that as part of our effort to improve the quality of life in the City of Kingston and continue to grow as a sustainable community, that you join me in the active participation of the endeavors set forth in this plan,” wrote Gallo.
The formidable plan, now available on the city government website, was prepared over a full year by climate analyst Rich Sciafo under a grant from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (Nyserda). Copies will be available at the city clerk’s office, the Kingston Library, the city parks department, Hudson Coffee Traders, and Monkey Joe’s. According to Kingston Conservation Advisory Committee (CAC) chair Julie Noble, a public meeting on the draft action plan will be held as part of the CAC meeting at the city hall on June 7 at 7 p.m.
Goals and initiatives are presented under six subject areas: energy and renewables; land use and transportation; materials management such as waste reduction, recycling and composting; sustainable resource management; outreach, education and training; and climate adaptation.
Slideshow image: Will global warming cause more frequent flooding, like the post-Irene deluge, at the foot of Broadway in the heart of the Rondout? Kingston’s new Climate Action Plan released this week says that a commitment, plan and systems are in place in case Kingston needs to adapt to a changing climate. Along the Rondout waterfront, risks to water and storm water syatems seem particularly acute. (Photo by Steve Noble)
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