Milford creates Climate Action Steering Commission after volunteer group seeks codification

Milford City Council on Aug. 20 adopted Ordinance 24-306 to create a Climate Action Steering Commission and formalize bylaws for a volunteer steering group that has been meeting to develop local energy and cost-saving measures.

The idea originated with a volunteer Climate Action Team organized by Ella O'Maley of Green Umbrella; Administrative Services Committee members reviewed the group's bylaws and recommended the law director draft an ordinance codifying the commission. Committee members said the group aims to identify measures that could save the city money and to model sustainable practices for residents and city operations. Committee minutes note Rashel Rapp and Vanessa Hannah co-chair the volunteers while the committee recommended a council representative serve as the commission's chairperson.

Resident Andy Dickerson voiced support during public comment, urging council to back the proposed commission and saying he looks forward "to work with the city to find further savings for us." Council discussion referenced possible future roles such as a sustainability coordinator and suggested that early codification would help secure resources and momentum.

Ordinance 24-306 was adopted unanimously. The ordinance establishes the commission and bylaws, assigns administrative oversight to Administrative Services/City Manager's office and directs staff to begin recruiting resident volunteers under the new rules. Councilmembers said the commission's work could inform energy use decisions for city facilities, fleet management, parks programming and future budget proposals.

Next steps: staff will begin recruitment per the adopted bylaws and report back to council; council also left open the possibility of later staff appointments or a dedicated sustainability coordinator if the commission's recommendations identify fundable savings.