Mayor Beatty receives testimony on climate initiatives from Safe Cities representative Anne Pernick

During the recent City Council meeting in Milwaukie, significant discussions centered around climate initiatives and pollution reduction strategies. The council heard from community members, including Anne Pernick from Safe Cities at Santa Earth, who praised the council's efforts in addressing climate and health issues.

Pernick emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach to reducing air and climate pollution from buildings. She urged the council to consider a dual strategy that prioritizes both a carbon pollution fee and a local energy use intensity target that exceeds the current standards set by the Oregon Department of Energy. This recommendation aims to tackle pollution from both new constructions and existing buildings simultaneously, which Pernick argued would provide substantial benefits for the community, including improved health and safety outcomes.

The council also acknowledged the receipt of three comments from residents regarding these initiatives, which will be included in the meeting packet for further consideration. The discussions reflect a growing commitment from local leaders to address environmental concerns and promote sustainable practices within the community.

As the council moves forward, the integration of these recommendations could play a crucial role in Milwaukie's transition to renewable energy, aligning with broader community goals for a healthier and more sustainable future. The next steps will involve further exploration of these policy options and their potential impact on residents' daily lives.