The Institute for Local Government (ILG) and the Statewide Energy Efficiency Collaborative honored the city of Goleta at an Oct. 8 virtual award ceremony for its efforts to save energy and adopt policies and practices that support a more sustainable and vibrant community.
The city received a Platinum Level Beacon Spotlight Award in Sustainability Best Practices.
“The impacts of climate change have never been more apparent than in 2020,” said Erica L. Manuel, CEO/executive director of ILG. “From devastating wildfires, to hazardous air quality and the increased public health risks from COVID-19, we have all had to pivot and think critically about what matters most.
“COVID-19 changed the format of our recognition event, but it didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of our winners or the pride we feel for the hard work they’ve done this year.”
“Goleta is committed to implementing sustainability measures across all city departments, which saves money, conserves resources, and strengthens resiliency,” said Cindy Moore, city of Goleta sustainability coordinator. “We are honored to be recognized by the institute for local government for these efforts and proud to participate in the Beacon Program.”
The city was honored with the award due to its fulfillment of the highest rank in each of 10 categories that comprise ILG’s Sustainability Best Practices Framework. This entailed highlighting Goleta’s efforts in categories such as Green Building, Waste Reduction, Efficient Transportation, Open Space, and Community and Individual Action.
To achieve the feat, the city has undertaken notable projects such as the Jonny D. Wallis Neighborhood Park, a Strategic Energy Plan to reach its 100% renewable energy by 2030 goal, obtaining funding for a new Goleta train station, and elimination of single-use plastics within City Hall, among others.
Currently, 161 cities and counties throughout the state participate in the Beacon Program, which was established in 2009 to create a framework for local governments to share best practices that create healthier, more efficient, vibrant communities. ILG recognizes cities and counties for measurable accomplishments in five award categories:
Agency Greenhouse Gas Reductions, Community Greenhouse Gas Reductions, Agency Energy Savings, Agency Natural Gas Savings and Sustainability Best Practices. When a community achieves recognition in all five categories, it earns the prestigious Beacon Award.
Learn more about Goleta’s Sustainability Programs here. For additional information on the Beacon Program visit the ILG website, https://www.ca-ilg.org/beacon-program.