During a recent government meeting, members of the Environmental Sustainability Advisory Board (ESAB) expressed concerns regarding the lack of accountability and progress on an ordinance aimed at achieving 100% renewable energy for city operations by 2035. The ordinance, passed in March 2020, mandates an annual review by the city manager's office, but no reports have been submitted to date, leading to disappointment among board members.

Kay, a long-serving member of the ESAB, highlighted the need for the city manager's office to fulfill its responsibilities under the ordinance, emphasizing that accountability is crucial for the city's strategic sustainability goals. The board has been actively involved in various sustainability initiatives, but the absence of the promised reports has raised questions about the city's commitment to its environmental objectives.

Discussion also centered on the feasibility of the 2035 timeline for transitioning to renewable energy. Concerns were raised about the current reliance on purchasing wind energy credits rather than being powered directly by renewable sources. Board members noted that achieving true renewable energy status would require significant changes to the city's electrical system, including the possibility of establishing a separate municipal power grid.

The conversation further revealed that the original timeline for the ordinance was set for 2050, but was amended to 2035 during a city commission meeting, raising doubts about the practicality of such an aggressive goal. Board members stressed that any proposed changes to the ordinance should originate from the city commissioners, who are better positioned to assess the budgetary implications and overall feasibility of the sustainability initiatives.

City staff confirmed they are working on potential revisions to the ordinance, but emphasized the importance of community engagement before presenting any changes to the city commission. The discussions underscored the need for a balanced approach that considers both environmental sustainability and fiscal responsibility, as the city navigates the complexities of transitioning to renewable energy.