Chairwoman Nicholson Calls for Milwaukee County to go Carbon Neutral by 2050

MILWAUKEE – The Committee on Parks, Energy, and Environment unanimously recommended for adoption two proposals sponsored by Chairwoman Marcelia Nicholson aimed at combatting climate change earlier today.

“Becoming carbon neutral by 2050 is essential if we want to avoid a climate catastrophe,” said Chairwoman Nicholson. “In many instances communities of color will be hit hardest by climate change. That is why it is essential for Milwaukee County to lead on this issue if we plan to achieve racial equity. I look forward to working with local governments across Wisconsin to reach our climate goals.”

The first resolution recommended by the Parks Committee commits Milwaukee County to becoming carbon neutral by 2050 and requests that the County’s Director of Sustainability develop and administer a strategic plan to achieve carbon neutrality in Milwaukee County facilities and operations by that year.

The resolution also affirms Milwaukee County’s interest in participating in We Energies’ Solar Now program. The program allows local governments to partner with the utility company to install solar panels on roof tops or land parcels and, in return, receive lease payments.

The second resolution furthers Milwaukee County’s commitment to advancing climate change solutions by officially joining the Wisconsin Local Government Climate Coalition. The County’s Director of Sustainability would serve as the representative for Milwaukee County and advocate on behalf of the County to support the coalition’s mission. There is no cost associated with joining the coalition.

These proposals build on previous County Board action on climate change, including a 2017 resolution aligning Milwaukee County with the principles and goals of the Paris Climate Agreement, and a 2019 resolution creating the City-County Joint Taskforce on Climate and Economic Equity. Chairwoman Nicholson is a Co-Chair of the Taskforce.

The County Board will consider both resolutions on Thursday, April 22, which is Earth Day.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.