Statewide Climate Resiliency Committee Meets
Bipartisan committee met today in Sullivan County.
The New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) Climate Resiliency Committee met today during the organization's Fall Seminar in Sullivan County. The bipartisan committee is comprised of officials in the county positions most directly impacted by changes in the climate. This includes officials from public health, environmental health, transportation, emergency services, solid waste, planning, and agriculture.
The committee also includes representatives from the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (&‹NYSDEC), the NYS Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), the National Association of Counties (NACo), and the Nature Conservancy.
Under the leadership of Chair Mark Poloncarz, Erie County Executive, and Vice-Chair Martha Robertson, Chair of the Tompkins County Legislature, the committee seeks to address climate change in New York and identify solutions for working collaboratively to create more resilient communities.
“I am passionate about identifying ways to protect our county, as well as our state, our nation and the entire world, from the impacts of climate change,” said Poloncarz. “While the efforts in our individual counties might seem small against large-scale climate change, collectively and by working together we can make a difference in creating a healthier, thriving planet for all.”
Today's meeting included a presentation by NYSAC on &‹the Climate Smart Communities and Clean Energy Communities &‹programs; an explanation of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act from NYSDEC; and a presentation on Community Solar and Solar for All by NYSERDA.
“To say that counties are the ‘boots on the ground' in fighting climate change may sound like a cliché, but it's true,” said Robertson. “Whatever the State sets as its goals, counties are the bridge with local communities; we are essential in making real change happen. The CLCPA presents great opportunities to push ourselves, to fight for a better world for our kids and grandkids.”
NYSAC is a bipartisan association representing New York's 57 counties and the City of New York in Albany and Washington on matters germane to county governments. NYSAC educates and informs county officials and the public about issues that impact county governments across the state.
“The Climate Resiliency Committee offers county officials a platform for sharing ideas, working with state agencies, and developing partnerships to mitigate and prepare for the impact of climate change on our communities,” said NYSAC Executive Director Stephen Acquario. “I thank County Executive Poloncarz and Board Chair Robertson for their leadership on this committee.” |
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