Some push for Austin to become model in energy efficiency

Some people want to turn Austin green.

 

A resolution on Austin becoming a global-climate friendly city was recently submitted to the Parks and Recreation board by a group of individuals, including Friends of the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center and the Rev. Glenn Monson of Our Savior's Lutheran Church. The resolution was initiated at the Friends group's annual meeting.

"Basically the group wants our support in bringing the resolution to city council," said Dennis Maschka, director of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry. "It falls really well under what we already do."

What does it mean to be a global-climate-friendly city?

--Trees are regularly planted and replaced in city parks and boulevards.

--Recreation trails are maintained to promote outdoor exercise.

--City government offices work with local utility companies to determine ways to save energy and clean up pollution, and they track the utilities' progress.

--Building codes are improved to promote energy efficiency.

--The city acquires vehicles with enhanced fuel efficiency, such as hybrids, to reduce carbon emissions.

--Neighboring cities are encouraged to become global-climate-friendly communities.

According to Maschka, the Park and Recreation board is reviewing the resolution.

"It makes sense for everyone in the city to practice conservation," he said.

Nature center Director Larry Dolphin says he believes that the city can easily reduce the amount of energy used by at least 10 percent.

"We can be more conscientious, and we can be a model city," he said.

Maschka and Dolphin both said they do not believe it will cost the city a lot of money to adopt the resolution.

"It will hopefully save money in the long run," said Maschka.

Dolphin says they are hoping to get Austin Utilities involved in the process. The Austin Utilities Web site (www.austinutilities.com) offers several energy and water conversation tips.

The resolution will be discussed again at the next Parks and Recreation Board meeting on April 4.