A Sustainable CT fellow told the Simsbury Sustainability Committee that the nonprofit'run municipal certification program offers bronze, silver and gold recognition and a match fund that provides up to $6,000 in dollar‑for‑dollar support for community projects once a town is registered.

Amelia, introduced as the Sustainable CT summer fellow working with both Sustainable CT and the Capitol Region Council of Governments, said Simsbury was previously certified in 2019 but is not currently certified. She described the certification framework, the point‑based action categories and the documentation typically required for an application, such as event flyers, photos and vendor lists.

Why it matters: Sustainable CT certification packages eligibility, best practices and small grants that towns can use to support projects such as composting initiatives and community gardens. The fellow said the match fund is available to anyone in a registered town, including residents, and can support community‑centered projects.

Documentation and volunteer needs: Committee members discussed that much of the work to reapply is documentation — gathering evidence of existing programs (for example, the annual library fair), attaching photos and entering actions in the online form. The fellow encouraged volunteers to help gather materials and enter information on behalf of the town.

Examples and use cases: The fellow said common uses of matching funds include composting projects and community gardens. Committee members identified existing local initiatives that could qualify, including community gardens with waiting lists. The fellow said the Sustainable CT marketing and match programs can also help identify peer municipalities and potential grant sources.

Attribution and scope: Quotes and attributions come from the Sustainable CT fellow, identified in the transcript as Amelia, and committee members who discussed certification logistics. The committee did not take formal action to reapply for certification at the meeting; members discussed options, potential volunteer roles and next steps to decide whether to pursue recertification.

Next steps: The fellow invited committee members to reach out with questions and to consider volunteer help for compiling the documentation needed if the town elects to pursue recertification.