Mayor Graham Richard today released the Green Ribbon Commission report that outlines a comprehensive energy and clean air plan for the community.

“We appreciate the hard work and commitment of the members of the Green Ribbon Commission,” said Mayor Richard. “Their findings reinforce the urgency to reduce energy consumption and air pollution. All of us must work together to improve our environment. The work we do today will produce cleaner air and save money on energy costs. This enhanced quality of life will help us attract and retain jobs.”

The Commission was co-chaired by Randy Roberts, President of Lincoln Printing and Regina Leffers, Chair of the Board of Synergid Commercial and Director of Construction Education at IPFW.

Additional Commission members:
-Julie Donnell, President of Friends of the Parks of Allen County

-Gonzalee Martin, Agriculture Natural Resources Purdue Extension Services

-Greg Meszaros, Director of Public Works and City Utilities for the City of Fort Wayne

-Pat Oppor, Owner of Targeted Services, P.C.

-Nelson Peters, Allen County Commissioner

-Marsha Ryan, President and Chief Operating Officer for Indiana Michigan Power/AEP

-Joe Steensma, Owner of Industrial Solutions Group Inc.

-David Van Gilder, Lawyer with Van Gilder & Trzynka, P.C.

-Dr. Larry Wiedman, Professor of Biology at the University of St. Francis and Director of the Environmental Science and Field Studies Programs

The Green Ribbon Commission report will be presented at several public forums this fall. The entire report is also available online at www.cityoffortwayne.org. A full schedule will be released in the coming weeks.

The Green Ribbon Commission recommendations are listed below. The recommendations also include goals and performance measures to reduce energy costs and consumption and improve air quality. The Commission, which was established by Mayor Richard, began meeting in May to create the action plan. The Commission acknowledged the work the City has done to improve services through the “Green City Initiative”:

  • Develop and adopt a City Energy Policy
  • Reduce dependence on traditional automobiles and trucks
  • Increase availability of transportation choices
  • Improve energy efficiency of existing buildings
  • Build energy efficient new or renovated buildings
  • Implement energy efficient city services
  • Create energy efficient employee culture
  • Add renewable energy sources
  • Support developers, homeowners and landlords in reducing energy use
  • Ensure energy and environmentally supportive city policies, plans and codes
  • Encourage green economic development
  • Lobby for energy efficient policies and regulations
  • Prepare for carbon credit exchange