Council reaffirms Ithaca Green New Deal, drawing broad public support

The Ithaca Common Council voted on May 7 to reaffirm the city’s commitment to the Ithaca Green New Deal and the Justice 50 framework. The resolution drew multiple public comments in favor from neighborhood advocates, climate groups and local students, including representatives from Sunrise Ithaca, Bike Walk Tompkins and the Center for Community Transportation.

Public speakers highlighted the city’s earlier work on green building, the Justice 50 equity framework and the need to continue climate action at the local level amid federal rollbacks. Ace Dufresne, a Sunrise Ithaca youth leader, told the council that local commitment is “more important than ever” and urged continuation of the city’s climate justice work.

Council members affirmed the resolution as aspirational and consistent with staff recommendations. One councilmember noted staff advice that retaining prior goals in the record is a best practice so progress and shortfalls can be tracked over time. The resolution passed unanimously.

The reaffirmation does not, by itself, authorize new spending; it signals continued city support for climate and equity goals and directs staff and commissions to carry forward work under existing programs and any budgeted initiatives.