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Williamsport council votes to pursue Audubon 'Bird Town' recognition
Summary
Council approved a resolution to pursue Bird Town recognition through the Pennsylvania Audubon Council and will form a community committee to identify conservation actions; vote passed 5-0.
The Williamsport City Council on Jan. 30 voted unanimously to adopt a resolution to pursue recognition as a Bird Town through the Pennsylvania Audubon Council, a statewide network of Audubon chapters.
Bruce Buckle, president of the Lycoming Audubon Society, described the Bird Town program and told council it is “an independent organization that is supported by the Pennsylvania Audubon Council.” Buckle said the program gives municipalities statewide recognition for conservation-minded actions and encourages partnerships among city officials, schools and community organizations.
Under the steps Buckle outlined, council adoption of the resolution is the first step. The city would then establish a Bird Town committee with municipal and community representation and complete a Bird Town application. The program requires an annual report of actions taken and offers voluntary certification levels — green, bronze, silver and gold — but no mandatory timeline to advance through those levels.
Valerie (administration) told council the mayor supports the initiative and that city staff have discussed coordinating Bird Town activities with parks revitalization efforts and state grant requirements. Buckle and council members noted Bird Town could help the community access grants; he cited a $7,500 grant applied for to address invasive species at the Robert Porter Allen Natural Area as an example of the types of funds Audubon groups pursue.
Council members discussed likely time commitments for city staff and emphasized that the program largely relies on community partnership. Council member Allison said he would support the resolution while noting that changes in future administrations could affect momentum.
Action: Council moved, seconded and approved the resolution by voice vote, 5-0.
Why it matters: The Bird Town recognition is a voluntary conservation program that could align municipal park projects and community conservation activities and may help the city access outside grant funding. The resolution does not impose a direct financial obligation on the city beyond staff time to participate in a committee and file annual reports.
Next steps: City administration and Lycoming Audubon will work to establish a Bird Town committee and complete the application process if the city wishes to proceed.
