News and Updates

Isabelle Klein 8/7/25 Isabelle Klein 8/7/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Executive Director Condemns Trump Administration’s Proposed Rollback of Cost-Saving Solar Program

Washington D.C. (August 7, 2025) – Today, Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright issued the following statement in response to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed cancelation of the critical Solar for All program, a $7 billion investment which helps low-income and rural Americans access cleaner, more reliable, and more affordable solar energy. Solar for All is projected to lower energy bills for American households by $400 each year:

“Solar for All is a transformative program helping mayors across the country deliver affordable, reliable, and clean solar energy to families who need it the most,” said Kate Wright, Executive Director of Climate Mayors. “No hardworking family should have to choose between keeping their lights on and putting food on the table. Attempting to cancel Solar for All could result in one million Americans seeing their energy costs go up. Climate Mayors around the country remain steadfast in their commitment to deliver innovative clean energy solutions that lower energy bills, create good-paying jobs, and cut toxic pollution.”

About Climate Mayors

Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities since 2014. Representing 46 states and nearly 60 million Americans, Climate Mayors reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on X, Bluesky, and LinkedIn.

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 8/7/25 Georgia Panitz 8/7/25

Mayors and Governors Encourage Americans to Act Now to Claim Thousands of Dollars in Clean Energy Incentives

WASHINGTON, D.C. (August 7, 2025) — Today, Climate Mayors, a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors representing 46 states, joined together with the U.S. Climate Alliance — a bipartisan coalition of 24 governors representing approximately 60 percent of the U.S. economy and 55 percent of the U.S. population — announce a nationwide effort to encourage Americans to take advantage of cost-saving federal clean energy tax credits before they expire.

Federal financial assistance is available for a limited time for Americans looking to go solar, buy an electric vehicle, and upgrade their home with cleaner, more affordable energy. With the clean energy tax credits, choosing rooftop solar, heat pumps, or electric vehicles can save consumers thousands of dollars up front — while helping lower their monthly energy bills for years to come. But under recent federal changes adopted by Congress, many of these federal incentives have new deadlines and are set to expire soon.

“These clean energy tax credits have helped American families and businesses save money, and now is the time to take full advantage of them,” said Climate Mayors chair Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. “We have a narrow window to get the word out and help our communities benefit from these proven, popular credits which are making clean energy more affordable and accessible across the country.”

“At a time when household budgets are already stretched thin and the cost of living is too darn high, switching to an electric vehicle, installing a heat pump, or making your home more energy efficient can help save on everyday costs and pay dividends in the long run,” said U.S. Climate Alliance co-chair Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers. “Now is a great time for folks thinking about making the switch to take advantage of federal clean energy tax credits while they are still available.”

“The federal government is making clean cars more expensive — taking away these incentives right when Americans need them the most,” said U.S. Climate Alliance co-chair California Governor Gavin Newsom. “In addition to spreading the word about these incentives before they disappear, the Alliance’s governors will continue fighting for additional solutions to lower energy costs and save people money on their bills.”

Until September 30, consumers can save up to $7,500 on electric vehicle purchases, on top of any existing state and local rebates. And through the end of this year, consumers can save tens of thousands of dollars on a long list of home energy and efficiency upgrades, in addition to existing state and local incentives. Consumers can identify a full list of federal clean energy tax credits and their expiration dates using Rewiring America’s calculator. More detail on expiring residential clean energy tax credits can be found in the chart below.

States and cities across the two coalitions will be engaging consumers and businesses over the coming months to ensure as many people as possible can take advantage of these federal incentives before they expire. Just last week, Colorado announced the launch of its statewide Energy Savings Navigator, a new easy-to-use digital tool that connects the state’s consumers to more than 600 energy rebates and 18 different energy bill assistance programs, including federal tax credits expiring later this year.

“We are taking action to ensure that Coloradans can easily access clean energy savings, especially in the face of tariff uncertainty,” said U.S. Climate Alliance member Colorado Governor Jared Polis. “We continue to do all we can to make people aware of how you can reduce costs on energy bills and keep money in your pocket.”

Following expiration of these time-limited federal incentives, Americans will continue to be able to leverage other federal, state, and local programs to support their transition to clean energy solutions.

Georgia Panitz 7/29/25 Georgia Panitz 7/29/25

Climate Mayors Affirm Commitment to Public Health While EPA Abdicates Responsibility To Protect Americans From Climate Pollution

Washington, D.C. (July 29, 2025) - Climate Mayors leadership including Chair and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, Vice Chair and Boise Mayor Lauren McLean, and Vice Chair and Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens condemn the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposal to dismantle the Endangerment Finding and roll back greenhouse gas emissions standards. Climate Mayors stand united in defending the science, common sense, and protections that keep our communities safe and healthy.

Statement from Climate Mayors Chair Mayor Kate Gallego (Phoenix, AZ), Vice Chair Mayor Lauren McLean (Boise, ID), and Vice Chair Mayor Andre Dickens (Atlanta, GA):

“Today’s actions by the Trump Administration fail to protect Americans’ health and wellbeing—the most basic responsibility of government. Undermining EPA’s ability to protect people from pollutants is a rejection of science and common sense. The regulations that the Administration is undermining have resulted in better air quality in communities across the country and are central to America’s ability to prevent the worst impacts of climate change.

This retreat from science-based standards will result in increasingly intense summer heat, unpredictable rainfall patterns resulting in floods and drought, and economic harm and health impacts to American families. Mayors will not back down from our mission to safeguard our residents’ health and build better, safer, and more affordable cities.”

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Isabelle Klein 7/7/25 Isabelle Klein 7/7/25

Climate Mayors FY26 Priorities Letter

On behalf of Climate Mayors, a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors from across the United States, I write in strong support of funding in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 appropriations bills for resiliency programs that grow our economy and create good-paying jobs while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and lowering costs for consumers. We urge you to maintain funding for the following programs in FY26 appropriations that are critical in ensuring our economy continues to thrive:

Support funding for the Low-Income Household Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to ensure that seniors and other vulnerable Americans can pay their energy bills.
Maintain funding for the Low or No Emission (Low No) Program to help local governments and transit agencies replace aging buses and enhance access to jobs
Preserve the Promoting Resilient Operations for Transformative, Efficient, and Cost-saving Transportation Program (PROTECT).
Fund the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) Program to increase nationwide resiliency.
Protect the Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund to help cities plan for and address decreasing water supplies.
Support efforts to increase tree coverage in America’s cities by funding the Urban and Community Forestry Program.
Support consumer awareness of energy efficiency technologies by fully funding ENERGY STAR.
Protect Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding to support key resiliency projects across the United States.
Invest in workforce development programs to grow local economies and strengthen our cities’ ability to remain competitive.

Read the full letter and recommendations therein HERE.

Climate Mayors appreciates Congress’ work to support these critical programs. We look forward to working with you in continued partnership.

Sincerely,

Kate Wright

Executive Director, Climate Mayors

Isabelle Klein 7/2/25 Isabelle Klein 7/2/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Leadership Reaffirm Commitment to Clean Energy and Affordability Following Congressional Rollbacks

Despite setback from the federal government, Climate Mayors Chair Mayor Kate Gallego and Vice Chairs Mayor Lauren McLean and Mayor Andre Dickens say Climate Mayors will continue pursuing the popular green programs and policies creating good-paying jobs, reducing toxic pollution, and lowering energy, food, and housing costs

Washington D.C. (July 3, 2025) – Today Climate Mayors leadership including Chair and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, Vice Chair and Boise Mayor Lauren McLean, and Vice Chair and Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens released the following statement in response to the passage of the Congressional megabill gutting clean energy tax credits, raising costs for working families, and jeopardizing Americans’ health and well-being:

“Today, Congress betrayed its promise to the hardworking people of this country by passing a bill that guts clean energy tax credits, raising costs for families and businesses at a time when more than half of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. Creating more affordable cities that don’t price out the people who built them means investing in the tools and programs that we know lower costs - and that includes clean energy. We have seen firsthand these tax credits have made energy more reliable, more affordable, and more abundant; it has revived American manufacturing and created tens of thousands of good-paying jobs right here in our cities. By gutting clean energy tax credits, Congress is threatening to take us backwards instead of looking towards our future. As portions of our country suffer through yet another record-breaking and dangerous heat-wave, we will not let our cities be pawns of special interests. We will keep fighting the cost of living crisis that has been exacerbated by climate change.

“As mayors, we have the power and the authority to keep pushing forward on the programs and policies that will create more affordable, more prosperous, and healthier cities. Climate Mayors stand ready and able to partner with other state, local, and business leaders to unleash abundant, affordable, and clean energy, create more good-paying jobs, and build healthier, safer, and more prosperous cities nationwide.”

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

6/20/25 6/20/25

PRESS RELEASE: Mayors Gallego and Mendenhall Release Climate Mayors’ Western Waters Call to Action to Protect Water Access Across the Colorado River System

As the climate crisis threatens people’s access to water, Climate Mayors’ Call to Action lays out concrete federal and state-level recommendations for reducing water costs, increasing water security, and ensuring Western communities continue to enjoy safe and reliable access to water

Phoenix, AZ (June 20, 2025) - Today, Climate Mayors Chair Mayor Kate Gallego of Phoenix, AZ, and Mayor Erin Mendenhall of Salt Lake City, UT unveiled Climate Mayors’ Western Waters Call to Action, a comprehensive policy paper for how local, state, and federal governments can work together to keep water flowing safely, reliably, and affordably in the West.

Reliable access to water has been a pervasive issue in the western U.S., which is drier and more arid than other regions in the country. Climate change has led to an increase of 29% more drought-related disasters since 2000 and making water scarcer. To ensure people continue to enjoy uninterrupted access to safe and drinkable water at low costs, western cities are adapting to this new climate reality and are taking steps to build water security in the Colorado River system. Climate Mayors established the Western Water Security Regional Cohort as a way for western mayors to share best practices and recommendations for how to improve water security while maximizing water conservation, but an all-of-government approach is crucial to ensuring western cities can keep enjoying uninterrupted access to clean water at low costs.

“Western cities are confronting the reality that climate change is threatening access to water resources, and leading innovative and collaborative efforts to protect our shared supply,” said Phoenix Mayor and Climate Mayors Chair Kate Gallego. “In our mission to make Phoenix the most sustainable desert city in the world, we’ve implemented forward-thinking policies, such as requiring our largest water users to recycle at least a third of the water they use, resulting in a 30-year trend of year-over-year reductions in water use. Climate Mayors’ Western Waters initiative highlights cities’ innovative conservation best practices and invites our state and federal partners to join us in being the best stewards we can be of our limited freshwater resources, especially in the threatened Colorado River basin.”

“Water is precious, and we’re serious about conserving water in Salt Lake City without disrupting people’s lives. It’s a mix of conservation programs and partnerships with state and federal agencies that have allowed us to reduce our overall water consumption by more than 30%, while our water service area population has grown by 19% since the year 2000,” said Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall. “Mayors are doing their jobs - we need federal and state governments to help us unlock the full suite of policies and solutions that preserve and improve our water security. Our Call to Action provides a blueprint to do just that.”

The Call to Action was the result of multiple convenings of the Climate Mayors’ Western Water Security Regional Cohort which included mayors from both the Upper and Lower Basin, including Mayor Gallego and Mayor Mendenhall. The policy paper provides recommendations for how federal and state action can implement an all-of-government approach to address the complex and interrelated challenges of water insecurity, while protecting the Colorado River system and ensuring people across the West can continue to safely, affordably, and reliably access water. As cities across the country, and especially those along the Colorado River, get ready for the summer months that bring increased droughts and water scarcity, this Call to Action highlights the leadership of cities and the critical steps that are needed at the State and Federal levels.

“Climate Mayors are tackling the challenge of water scarcity with creativity and innovation,” said Kate Wright, Executive Director of Climate Mayors. “But we need help from our state and federal partners. The federal government needs to double down on solving our water crisis in the west, not walk away from it. Our Call to Action asks our state and federal partners to join us in leading the charge on water security and ensure western communities continue to enjoy safe, reliable, and affordable access to water, no matter where they live.”

Federal Recommendations

Invest additional funding to water and drought mitigation programs and water and wastewater infrastructure
Restore FEMA Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program
End federal taxation of water conservation rebates, creating the same tax conditions that energy conservation rebates have enjoyed for years and encouraging conservation by reducing recipient costs and utility administrative burden
Create block grant programs available to local governments and states to allow for flexible grant funding to increase water efficiency programs across the West (such as funding to create water leak monitoring programs, residential rebates, and more) – similar to the Energy Efficiency Block Grant Program
The Department of Interior and Bureau of Reclamation should exert their authority to ensure sustainable management of the Colorado River system that strengthens water security for future generations; ongoing negotiations related to post-2026 Colorado River system operations must be based on the concept of permanent measures for all states and sectors
Create a local government advisory commission or other official channel to include local government voices that represent communities in Western Water decisions
Invest unobligated federal drought money to local and tribal governments for flexible water resilience use, such as: water recycling infrastructure, natural drought resiliency infrastructure, stormwater reuse projects, etc.
Use Presidential Emergency Authority to designate drought conditions in the West as a natural disaster to initiate increased funding to vital communities

State Recommendations

Align and integrate local governments into state water and climate planning
Collaborate with and integrate local governments into the Upper and Lower Colorado River basin negotiations, especially in instances in which they are the primary water users
Invest in state drought resiliency fund for water recycling infrastructure programs for local governments and farmers to reduce uptake of water from Colorado River Basin
Regularly coordinate and convene state, local, agricultural, tribal, and private entities to address state water goals and identify cross-sectoral solutions as well as public-private partnerships and investments
Allocate state funding and/or expertise to assist communities with 1) water infrastructure, such as smart meters, aging pipelines, and water reuse facilities; 2) rate studies and rate design; 3) long range resiliency planning such as state water plans, land use plans, and economic development plans; and 4) conservation incentive programs
Develop programs to help communities with revenue stabilization and water affordability as water demand decreases

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Isabelle Klein 6/11/25 Isabelle Klein 6/11/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Executive Director Responds to Trump Administration’s Rollbacks of EPA Power Plant Standards

Washington D.C. (June 11, 2025) – Today, Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright responded to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) announcement that it will roll back mercury and greenhouse gas emissions standards for power plants across the country. The repeal of the two rules issued under the Clean Air Act would loosen emissions requirements for hazardous mercury by as much as 70% and eliminate pollution monitoring regulations for coal and gas-fired power plants.

“These rollbacks undermine the ability of mayors to shield their residents from harm and would allow corporations to pollute our air and water, and erode the quality of life for children and families across America,” said Kate Wright, Climate Mayors Executive Director. “Weakening the safeguards around toxic pollutants like mercury not only jeopardizes the health of city residents, especially those in historically underserved neighborhoods, it also hinders the ability of local leaders to build stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities. The EPA has a responsibility to protect our health and environment – not eliminate the safeguards that protect us from breathing in harmful toxins every day.”

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

6/5/25 6/5/25

PRESS RELEASE: 175 Local Leaders Double Down on Call to Protect the Critical Clean Energy Tax Credits Creating Jobs, Boosting Local Economies, and Unleashing American Energy

Washington, D.C. (June 5, 2025) – 175 mayors, council members and county commissioners, representing 45 states and the District of Columbia and over 31.6 million Americans, signed a letter calling on Congress to preserve all clean energy tax credits driving local economic booms, good paying jobs, and lower energy bills in cities and towns nationwide. Of the signatories, 81 are members of Climate Mayors, a network of U.S. mayors demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities.

Clean energy tax credits are allowing state and local governments, churches, hospitals and schools to lower their operating costs while making critical upgrades to their infrastructure, including installing solar panels and charging stations, and trading in diesel-powered school buses emitting toxic chemicals into our air for clean electric school buses. These tax credits give local governments the certainty they need to create better and safer cities, bringing tens of thousands of good-paying jobs and boosting local economies in the process.

“We are excited about these projects and the benefits they will bring to our communities. However, as local leaders, we are concerned that repealing these clean energy tax credits could create economic uncertainty in our communities, as it would prevent us from accessing those important benefits. The consequences of this repeal would raise energy costs by $489 a year for families, result in up to 97,000 net fewer American jobs, hurt private sector investments, slow economic growth, and make the U.S. less globally competitive,” the local leaders wrote. “We look forward to working with you to preserve these vital tax incentives. We also ask that you consider us as partners in crafting bipartisan policies that ensure economic certainty, job creation, and a clean energy future for local communities.”

Any repeals would hit local governments and organizations the hardest, and the loss of access to credits could threaten the success of projects nationwide. More than 1,200 organizations, including over 500 state and local governments, have been able to take advantage of clean energy tax credits to support local projects while lowering costs for families and businesses and reducing pollution.

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Isabelle Klein 5/22/25 Isabelle Klein 5/22/25

STATEMENT: CLIMATE MAYORS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RESPONDS TO SENATE MOVE ROLLING BACK CALIFORNIA’S CLEAN-AIR WAIVERS ‘A MAJOR STEP BACKWARDS.’

Washington, DC (May 22, 2025) – In response to today’s Senate vote to eliminate California’s ability to set its own clean air and emissions standards – denying a right that has been granted by the federal government to states and local governments for nearly 50 years – Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright issued the following statement:

“Today’s move by the Senate to eliminate California’s authority to establish pollution standards for cars through clean air waivers is a major step backwards for cleaner air, American innovation and global competitiveness, and a threat to state and local authority. Thanks to these waivers, California gave states and local governments across the country a blueprint for how to create a booming economy that is lowering fuel costs and boosting access to good-paying jobs while making sure people had the right to clean air free from cancer-causing pollutants.

“State and local leaders are uniquely positioned to understand and respond to the needs of their community members. Efforts to undermine their ability to act will only hurt consumers and harm public health. Our mayors know that health comes first and have seen the economic benefits that an electric vehicle transition can bring. From manufacturing jobs to lower costs, our cities are poised to continue this progress and take steps towards a healthier and more prosperous future.”

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 5/14/25 Georgia Panitz 5/14/25

STATEMENT: CLIMATE MAYORS SAYS PROPOSED HOUSE PACKAGE WILL RAISE COSTS, THREATEN JOBS OF WORKING AMERICANS

Washington, D.C. (May 14, 2025) - In response to House committees approving portions of the reconciliation package rolling back critical investments that have benefited cities nationwide, including cuts to clean energy tax credits and clawbacks to climate programs from the Inflation Reduction Act, Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright issued the following statement:

"These proposed bills defy common sense - at a time when nearly half of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck, we should be lowering costs, not raising them. These programs and tax credits have provided a critical boost to local economies across the country, creating hundreds of thousands of good-paying jobs, driving billions in private investment, and revitalizing U.S. manufacturing. If Congress goes through with these spending cuts, it’s everyday Americans who will foot the bill in the form of higher energy costs and lower job opportunities.

Clean energy is more affordable, more reliable, and better for people’s health and safety. American energy dominance and security depends on unleashing more of it. Gutting these programs would be inviting instability and chaos, hiking up energy costs at a time when Americans are demanding lower bills.

Climate Mayors across the country have seen firsthand how clean energy tax credits have benefited their communities, in red and blue states alike. Earlier this year, 133 mayors and local leaders sent a letter to Congress urging them to preserve clean energy tax credits. We stand united and firm in calling on Congress to listen to their constituents and keep these programs in place so we can keep innovating, keep people’s energy bills affordable, and build a better, more prosperous, and healthier future for American families.”

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About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Isabelle Klein 4/29/25 Isabelle Klein 4/29/25

Climate Mayors Surface Transportation Reauthorization Priorities

Dear Chairman Graves and Ranking Member Larsen:

On behalf of Climate Mayors, a bipartisan network of nearly 350 Mayors from across the United States, I write to urge the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee to support policies and programs in the upcoming surface transportation reauthorization bill that advance zero and low-emission technologies and reduce greenhouse gas emissions while creating good-paying jobs, promoting innovation, and enhancing our country’s global competitiveness

Read the full letter and recommendations therein HERE.

We look forward to continuing our engagement with your committee and appreciate the opportunity to submit input.

Sincerely,

Kate Wright

Executive Director, Climate Mayors

Georgia Panitz 4/10/25 Georgia Panitz 4/10/25

STATEMENT: CLIMATE MAYORS CHAIR MAYOR KATE GALLEGO RESPONDS TO WHITE HOUSE ATTEMPT TO HAMPER LOCAL CLIMATE ACTION

Phoenix, AZ (April 10, 2025) – In response to President Trump’s executive order to curb state and local authority on climate action, Climate Mayors Chair and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego issued the following statement:

“The federal government does not have the authority to strip cities and states of their abilities to make laws that best serve their residents. Not only does this latest overreach step on local rights, it also fails to acknowledge the true costs of delaying the transition to a clean energy economy—both the enormous costs of continued environmental destruction and the political and social harm of retreating American leadership.

In Phoenix, we expect to hit record or near-record temperatures this week, demonstrating the consequences of inaction that are already at our doorstep. Instead of undermining local efforts to protect the health and safety of our residents, federal action to modernize our infrastructure and bolster our national competitiveness would be more productive. To ensure our country’s long-term prosperity, we need to double down on investments in advanced manufacturing that will deliver a clean energy economy, grid resilience, and workforce development pathways that prepare our residents for good-paying jobs in emerging industries.

Climate Mayors will continue to represent the best interests of our communities and work with state partners to advance policies that will bring economic security, health and safety to our cities and our country.”

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 4/9/25 Georgia Panitz 4/9/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Chair Mayor Gallego Calls on HHS Secretary to Protect Program Helping Americans Keep the Air Conditioning on in Summer

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) has been pivotal in helping 6 million Americans keep their homes cool amidst skyrocketing bills from record breaking heat waves, including in Phoenix where 2024 saw a record-breaking 113 consecutive days of 100 degrees or higher.

Washington, D.C. (April 8, 2025) - Following Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s visit to Phoenix, Climate Mayors Chair Mayor Kate Gallego issued the following statement:

“American cities experienced the hottest summer on record last year. It’s our responsibility to make sure households across the country can stay safe and healthy when temperatures climb. From desert cities in the Southwest to coastal cities in the Northeast, communities across the country are impacted by deadly summer heatwaves. The Trump administration must honor its commitment to support working families by doubling down on – and not dismantling – critical programs like LIHEAP. Here in Maricopa County, nearly 36,000 households rely on LIHEAP for their energy bills.

“There is nothing wasteful about ensuring families can keep their lights on and air conditioning running during the hottest months of the year. I strongly urge Secretary Kennedy to swiftly reinstate LIHEAP so that Phoenix families— and the many people nationwide who rely on this assistance— have the resources they need to stay safe in extreme weather.”

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 4/7/25 Georgia Panitz 4/7/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors on Trump Administration Cuts to National Disaster Response

As weather disasters increase in frequency and strength, cost taxpayers billions of dollars, and endanger the lives of Americans, U.S. cities need a strong federal partner to build more resilient communities, help adequately prepare for and recover from weather disasters, and keep people safe

Washington, D.C. (April 7, 2025) - In response to a slew of action from President Trump putting life-saving programs and disaster recovery for local governments at risk, including an executive order shifting responsibility for disaster preparedness from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to state and local governments, layoffs of FEMA staffers, and reports that FEMA is ending its Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) Program - the biggest program helping U.S. communities and cities plan and prepare for weather disaster events including hurricanes, floods, and wildfires - Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright issued the following statement below:

“Disaster events aren’t going away - in fact they are only getting worse. Mayors are the first line of defense when disaster strikes, and have seen firsthand the profound impacts on their communities. From wildfires in Los Angeles to record hurricanes in Florida and North Carolina, and rising heat across the country, the effects of climate change are here. Meeting this moment demands a whole-of-government response; we cannot be walking away from the critical federal resources and programs we need to help cities plan for disaster events and keep Americans safe.

FEMA is an essential partner for our mayors and cities, providing critical medical evacuation assistance, urban search and rescue teams, and satellite and ground communications support - all of which can help save more lives when a disaster strikes. When a winter storm hit Kentucky in February and caused deadly foods, FEMA provided critical, individual assistance and additional life-saving personnel to help flood victims. If the Trump administration abandons its responsibility to help communities plan for, respond, and recover from weather disasters, it’s the American people that will have to foot the bill - and cities in states like Florida, Louisiana, and Texas will pay the highest price.

To honor their obligations to the American people and save lives, the Trump administration must reform - not eliminate - FEMA, restore the BRIC program, and ensure FEMA has the resources and capacity it needs to support cities in their efforts to protect their communities before, during, and after crises. Climate Mayors are ready and willing to work with Congress to make the improvements to FEMA we need to ensure the country is prepared to deal with what will surely be another record-breaking and devastating summer.”

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

4/1/25 4/1/25

PRESS RELEASE: First-of-its-Kind Tracker Shows How Local Governments Are Driving Clean Energy Investments Through Direct Pay

The new tool tracks the slew of clean energy projects and economic benefits local governments are bringing to their communities

Washington, D.C. (April 2, 2025) – The Local Government Direct Pay tracker, a first-of-its-kind tool showing how federal tax credits are helping support clean energy projects in U.S. cities, was launched today by Climate Mayors, C40 Cities, the Urban Sustainability Directors Network (USDN), and Atlas Public Policy. Direct Pay allows local governments and other tax-exempt organizations to claim tax credits for investing in clean energy projects for the first time, helping bring good-paying jobs to their communities and build cheaper, safer, and more reliable energy.

The Local Government Direct Pay tracker currently accounts for more than 100 clean energy projects across 29 states and 59 jurisdictions, including Wisconsin, Ohio, Michigan, Texas, New Mexico, Florida, and Indiana. The projects reflected in the tracker demonstrate how clean energy tax credits, which the private sector has benefited from for decades, are now helping local governments and nonprofits unlock innovative clean energy projects, from installing solar energy and creating more energy independence, to purchasing electric vehicles and reducing toxic pollution. The Local Government Direct Pay tracker’s interactive dashboard allows users to filter projects by Congressional district, project type, and tax credit.

“Cities are unlocking their energy ambitions thanks to Direct Pay, helping us go further together in pursuit of our common goals of energy security, economic prosperity, and affordability for all,” said Kate Wright, Executive Director of Climate Mayors. “The private sector has long enjoyed tax credit benefits. Now, local governments can also take advantage of this critical tool to bring back local manufacturing and deliver cheaper, cleaner, and more reliable energy to their communities. We’re thrilled to be able to showcase the great projects cities from all over our country have undertaken to improve people’s lives.”

“Direct Pay is allowing cities across the country to deliver benefits to their residents, from lower energy costs to new jobs in the growing sector of clean energy,” said Kate Johnson, C40 Cities Regional Director for North America. “The Direct Pay tracker shines a spotlight on exciting projects that are improving Americans’ lives, demonstrating how local leaders are continuing to implement transformative change for their communities.”

“It’s exciting to see hundreds of truly impactful projects popping up in small towns and big cities across the country,” said Julia Trezona Peek, Chief Strategy and Partnerships Officer at Urban Sustainability Directors Network. “These tax credits are helping create local jobs, saving residents dollars, and directly contributing to healthier and more resilient communities.”
“These projects provide significant benefits to their local communities. By collecting project data across cities, the Direct Pay Tracker showcases the cumulative demand for and impact of the tax credits nationwide. As Direct Pay enables more projects, we are excited to see the map grow,” said Annabelle Rosser, Senior Policy Analyst at Atlas Public Policy.

Cities with projects reflected in the Direct Pay tracker include:

San Antonio, TX: installed solar panels in 42 sites across the city , which are expected to save up to $11 million in energy costs over the next 25 years, while creating full-time jobs and reducing pollution.
Madison, WI: more than $350,000 from Direct Pay tax credits and rebates will be used in the procurement of electric vehicles (EVs) and the installation of EV charging infrastructure at city-owned sites and facilities – investments that not only increase options for commuters, but supports cleaner air and better health outcomes for all.
Pateros, WA: this small town of 611 people with almost 200 days of sunshine a year used direct pay to power its water reservoir and wastewater treatment plant using solar energy, reducing its energy costs by over 45%.

The Direct Pay tracker will be updated in real time as new projects are added. Local governments are invited to submit their clean energy projects here.

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

About C40 Cities

C40 is a global network of nearly 100 mayors of the world’s leading cities working to confront the climate crisis. Mayors of C40 cities employ inclusive, science-based, and collaborative approaches to cut their fair share of emissions in half by 2030, help the world limit global heating to 1.5°C, and build healthy, equitable, and resilient communities.

About the Urban Sustainability Directors Network

The Urban Sustainability Directors Network (USDN) is a peer-to-peer network dedicated to advancing the field of local sustainability by supporting more than 3,000 local government professionals from 330 communities across the US and Canada that serve more than 100 million people.

About Atlas Public Policy

For a decade, Atlas Public Policy has equipped businesses and policymakers with the tools and insights they need to make strategic, impactful decisions that are pragmatic and serve the public interest. Atlas builds analytical tools and dashboards using powerful, accessible technology, and offer expert advisory services to tackle a wide range of current and future pressing issues.

Media Contact: press@atlaspolicy.com

3/24/25 3/24/25

ICYMI: Mayors Highlight Programs Lowering Costs, Boosting Local Economies, and Fighting Climate Change

Washington, D.C. – On Wednesday, U.S. mayors Lauren McLean (Boise, ID), Leirion Gaylor Baird (Lincoln, NE), Andy Schor (Lansing, MI), Indya Kincannon (Knoxville, TN), and Brandon Johnson (Chicago, IL), held a press call to showcase how investments in clean energy and infrastructure programs are lowering costs for Americans, supporting local businesses, reducing pollution, and fighting climate change. The mayors are part of the Mayoral Climate, Affordability and Prosperity Working Group, led by Climate Mayors, C40 Cities, and the Urban Sustainability Directors Network (USDN). The press call comes as the Trump administration’s Energy Department is preparing a “hit list” of clean energy projects to roll back, potentially threatening good-paying jobs, cutting back on innovation, and ceding the clean energy race to China.

“Here in Boise and across the cities that are here today, we know that the challenges we face are multifaceted…and the decisions we're making will have an impact on the quality of life of our kids and our grandkids into the future,” said Mayor Lauren McLean. “So whether it's sharing innovative ways to lower energy costs, to create stable jobs, or even to improve infrastructure, the conversations that we've shared in this working group have been key to help me and all of us navigate shared but unique challenges…we have an incredible opportunity in the face of these challenges, to come together and create a variety of solutions that will sustain our economies today and into the future.

“We know that when we invest in our workforce, we're strengthening our employers and our businesses. We're helping bolster our economy and make Lincoln an even better place where everyone can afford to take care of themselves and their families…We chose to invest in our families, in our businesses, and our workforce in ways that we believe will strengthen Lincoln's economic vitality and our resilience far into the future,” said Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird. “We allocated over a quarter of our American Rescue Plan funds into workforce development initiatives that are making life better for people here in Lincoln.”

“[In Lansing] we’re dealing with the changeover in going from natural gas to renewables…and I feel like all of this not only means good for our Earth, and our economy, and our sustainability, but it's all economics that's going to save us money,” said Mayor Andy Schor. “It's going to ensure that we have more jobs, high paying jobs. You talk about a battery plant, especially with electricians, and then building cars – these are high paying jobs. We're really proud of the economic impact that sustainability managers are leading to here in Lansing.”

“This working group is a good way for us to translate the work that we're doing to help with affordability, to help with quality of life and health through our actions on climate,” said Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon “The projects that we're doing here in Knoxville are helping to not only mitigate the effects of climate change, they improve quality of life [and] improve jobs.”

“Chicago, we tend to go big–we have a very robust climate agenda that is committed to fostering a just and a more equitable green economy, while also driving economic prosperity for everyone,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “I'm really excited about the collective work that we’re doing across the country demonstrating that we can have a planet that can be sustained and drive economic prosperity at the same time.”

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

About C40 Cities

About the Urban Sustainability Directors Network

The Urban Sustainability Directors Network (USDN) is a peer-to-peer network of over 3,000 local government professionals from 330 communities across the United States and Canada. USDN strives to create equitable, resilient, and sustainable communities by advancing the field of local government sustainability and equipping practitioners to be catalysts of transformative change.

3/19/25 3/19/25

PRESS RELEASE: Mayors Highlight Programs in their Cities that Lower Costs, Boost Local Economies, and Fight Climate Change

Local leaders showcase how investments in clean energy and infrastructure programs are lowering costs for Americans, supporting local businesses, and building a future-ready workforce

Washington, D.C. (March 19, 2025) – While the federal government cuts programs and policies that lower costs for working people and build a healthier and safer future, U.S. mayors of the Mayoral Climate, Affordability and Prosperity Working Group, led by Climate Mayors, C40 Cities, and the Urban Sustainability Directors Network (USDN), are advancing efforts to invest in critical infrastructure projects that are boosting local economies while tackling the impacts of climate change. Mayors Lauren McLean of Boise, ID, Andy Schor of Lansing, MI, Brandon Johnson of Chicago, IL, Indya Kincannon of Knoxville, TN, and Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird of Lincoln, NE hosted a press call highlighting how programs in their cities are reducing costs for families and businesses, creating good-paying jobs, and reducing pollution that is accelerating climate change.

The climate crisis is a cost of living crisis. From 2017 to 2023, insurance premiums rose by 34% across the country, partly because of extreme weather. Longer and hotter summers caused cooling costs to jump by nearly 9% in just one year, to a national average of more than $700 a month. By tackling rising energy, food, and housing costs through green policy initiatives, U.S. Mayors are making sure families have affordable energy options, food on the table, more money in their pockets, and job opportunities in a changing global economy.

“Increasing our tree canopy has created, in part, dynamic long-term solutions to challenges that Boise faces,” says Mayor Lauren McLean. “It’s through these community-driven solutions that our residents may be safe, our economy resilient, and our city welcoming for years to come.”

“Lansing has been a leader in Michigan to ensure a healthier future for our residents. I’m proud to have hired the city’s first Sustainability Manager and appointed a Sustainability Task Force. Together, they created action plans and a tree canopy report to help guide our efforts. Lansing is also home to a brand new LG Energy Solution battery cell plant that will employ over a thousand workers and produce the technology needed to power the vehicles and products of the future,” said Lansing Mayor Andy Schor.

"Chicago is steadfastly committed to bold climate action that generates benefits for our residents and communities," said Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. "Through initiatives like Green Homes Chicago, Green Social Housing, and the Climate Infrastructure Fund, we're working to reduce energy costs for Chicagoans while creating new economic opportunities within the green economy. As we move forward, we will continue working to advance economic prosperity for all Chicagoans."

“Our urban forestry project is enhancing the quality of life for all Knoxville residents, creating job opportunities for local landscapers and helping combat the effects of climate change,” said City of Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon. “We’re taking a community-wide approach through extensive partnerships with Trees Knoxville and other organizations. The City’s Urban Forestry Division, contractors and volunteers have planted 1,300 trees and increased education and certification opportunities.”

“Lincoln’s Future-Ready Workforce Initiative equips our residents with skills needed for high-demand careers that support economic growth and long-term community resilience. By investing in training opportunities that align with evolving industry needs, we are helping to create stable, high-wage jobs while ensuring our workforce is prepared for careers that will power our city’s future,” said Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird.

“Seattle is focusing on creating high-paying local jobs at every skill level, while reducing climate pollution and making our buildings, transit, and food production more efficient. We know that climate change is here and happening now, so we’re equally focused on building community resilience and helping neighbors prepare for extreme weather events. Every time we install heat pumps, that also air condition, into homes at no or low costs, develop green spaces for cleaner air and shade, and make infrastructure updates for long-term sustainability, we’re expanding our climate workforce and increasing affordability and prosperity for residents,” said Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell.

These programs that local leaders are advancing are already delivering benefits to their constituents. By sharing best practices and information about steps their cities are taking, members of the working group will continue efforts to advance these critical projects even as cities face the threat of broken federal funding commitments.

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

About C40 Cities

About the Urban Sustainability Directors Network

Georgia Panitz 3/12/25 Georgia Panitz 3/12/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Executive Director Condemns Trump Administration’s EPA Rollback of Key Environmental and Public Health Protections

Washington D.C. (March 12, 2025) – Today, Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright condemned the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) plans to rollback critical protections that limit air pollution, ensure clean waterways, eliminate dangerous chemicals, and protect the environment and human health:

“With this walkback of bedrock laws that keep us safe, the Trump administration is abandoning its pledge to provide for the health and well-being of our communities. The rollback of more than 31 environmental and health protections is a setback to all the great progress local leaders have made in building healthier, cleaner, and safer cities. This only benefits polluters looking for a blank check to keep emitting harmful and toxic chemicals – prioritizing unrestrained greed over the health of the American people.

“Our mayors will remain steadfast in their commitment to the safety of their residents and ensuring everyone can breathe clean air and drink clean water. The proposed rollbacks from the Trump Administration are an intentional effort to create chaos and will result in serious and immediate implications for communities’ health and harm our environment and economy.”

About Climate Mayors

Georgia Panitz 3/5/25 Georgia Panitz 3/5/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Leadership Pays Tribute to Former Chair and Houston Mayor, Congressman Sylvester Turner

With news Congressman Turner passed away, Climate Mayors remembers the former Chair as a long-standing climate champion, committed to making sure Houstonians and Americans across the country could breathe clean air and enjoy the benefits of a clean energy economy

Washington D.C. (March 5, 2025) – Today, the Chair of Climate Mayors, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, and the Executive Director of Climate Mayors, Kate Wright, released a joint statement following the passing of U.S. House Representative Sylvester Turner (TX-18) at 70, the former Houston Mayor and Climate Mayors Chair:

“On behalf of nearly 350 Climate Mayors and our board of directors we grieve the loss of an incredible public servant and dedicated climate champion in Congressman Turner today. He will be remembered for his unwavering commitment and lifelong dedication to serving the people of Houston. As mayor, Sylvester Turner served as Chair of Climate Mayors in 2021. During this time, he set an example for other US mayors and convened and inspired our membership around critical issues such as clean energy and climate resiliency and represented Climate Mayors on the global stage at COP26. Locally, he led the fight for ambitious climate action that always put Houstonians’ economic and physical well-being first. Current and future generations of Houstonians in the nation’s fourth most populous city will continue to experience the benefits of his climate-forward projects and programs, including launching Houston’s first Climate Action Plan and committing to becoming carbon neutral by 2050; preventing illegal dumping through the One Clean Houston campaign; and providing over 20,000 jobs for young adults through his Hire Houston Youth program, focusing predominantly on serving lower income neighborhoods and providing them with a path to a more economically secure future.

“It was an honor to work alongside Congressman Turner. We will continue taking his vision forward and ensure cities across the country continue to meet the needs of our residents through policies that reduce toxic pollution, create better-paying jobs for Americans, and build safer, healthier, and more equitable cities.”

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About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

3/3/25 3/3/25

PRESS RELEASE: Mayors Showcase Climate Solutions That Improve Public Safety Amid Waning Federal Support

Local leaders highlight how investments in smart solutions are making cities safer places to live by meeting basic needs, caring for public spaces, and building resilience.

Washington, D.C. (March 4, 2025) – As federal support for climate action faces rollbacks and uncertainty, mayors are taking the lead in implementing bold solutions that protect their communities and build a more resilient future. Members of the Mayoral Public Safety Working Group supported by Climate Mayors, C40 Cities, and the Urban Sustainability Directors Network (USDN) have engaged in information and resource-sharing efforts to trade best practices, initiatives, and programs that use climate action to improve public safety in local communities. Members of the working group hosted a press call to discuss how member mayors are engaging in collaborative efforts, including Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb, Climate Mayors Chair Emeritus and America Is All In Co-Chair, Mount Vernon Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard, and Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans.

Case Studies:

Cleveland, OH

Cleveland’s Summer Safety Plan, a comprehensive approach to proactively address crime during the hottest months, resulted in a decrease in overall violent crime in 2024.

“In Cleveland, our Summer Safety Plan is a testament to the success of an all-of-government approach that prioritizes data-driven strategies. Since 2023, our city has seen significant drops in murder, grand theft-motor, and overall violent crime,” said Mayor Justin M. Bibb of Cleveland, Climate Mayors Chair Emeritus and America is All in Co-Chair. “Public safety is more than just supporting our law enforcement. It’s about collaboration to keep our roads safe, our public spaces clean, and our youth and residents engaged and proud to live here. Every Cleveland resident deserves to feel safe and that starts with building a more resilient city for all.”

Mount Vernon, NY

Mount Vernon is bringing together all departments across the city — including aging, fire, public works, and police — to launch the Summer of Safety initiative to address rising crime rates, particularly during hot summer months, by investing in public green spaces.

"Mount Vernon is committed to fostering safer, stronger communities by confronting the root cause of violence and prioritizing the well-being of all residents. Our Summer of Safety initiative strengthens public safety through reimagined public spaces, creating a vibrant, more connected city.” said Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard. “By investing in our parks and offering residents positive outlets, especially during hot summer months where crime tends to increase, we are building the foundation for a more safe Mount Vernon.”

New Orleans, LA

New Orleans is building a network of resilience hubs, to offer commercial-scale solar power and back-up capacity during blackouts or extreme weather events. The City is partnering with Together New Orleans to expand the Community Lighthouse Project and install solar arrays at community institutions including congregations, civic institutions, and non-profit organizations. In normal times, the solar array can help defray the cost of electricity, and if the wider grid goes down, the facilities have battery storage to restore power and allow these institutions to respond to immediate community needs.

“New Orleans is a city of strength and resilience, and our Community Lighthouses are turning that spirit into action,” said New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell. “The Community Lighthouses are more than just safe spaces for our residents after extreme weather—they're lifelines for our communities, strengthening energy independence and delivering essential support when it's needed most. By investing in more sustainable and resilient solutions, we’re not only preparing for the next emergency—we’re keeping our residents safe and building a stronger New Orleans.”

Philadelphia, PA

The city of Philadelphia is taking bold and innovative steps to promote safer streets through its Philly Streetlight Improvement Project (PSIP). The citywide project to convert the city’s streetlamps to better and brighter LEDs has shown the benefits of improving public safety while creating jobs and cutting costs.

“My mission is to make Philadelphia the safest, cleanest, greenest, big city in the nation, with economic opportunity for all. As a cost-neutral, job-creating initiative that both reduces emissions and enhances public safety, our Philly Streetlight Improvement Project (PSIP) checks all of those boxes at once. A study by the University of Pennsylvania's Crime and Justice Policy Lab shows 15% reduction in crimes overall, including a 21% decrease in gun crimes, on blocks where old streetlights have been replaced with brighter, more efficient LEDs. Meanwhile, the project is projected to reduce municipal emissions by nearly 10%. This initiative, combined with our ambitious goal to plant 15,000 trees and our One Philly, United Citywide Cleaning Program, demonstrate how our sustainability initiatives are improving safety and wellbeing in our neighborhoods.” said Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker.

Rochester, NY

Rochester is investing in water infrastructure and lead removal programs to safeguard one of the most vital resources, ensuring the health and security of residents: water.

"Ensuring safe, clean water for all Rochester residents is at the heart of public safety and community well-being,” shared Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans. “Just as access to safe housing, good jobs, and clean air makes our neighborhoods stronger, so too does our commitment to safeguarding the spirit of our city—our water. By embracing our unique water assets, we are building a healthier, safer, and more vibrant Rochester for generations to come."

Tampa, FL

In Tampa, Mayor Jane Castor is focused on building stronger communities by progressing stormwater and resilience projects. As Tampa experiences rising temperatures and stronger storms, the city is building smarter and greener infrastructure that reduces flooding and creates cooler conditions in parks and on sidewalks during hot days. A $36.6M bond has allowed Tampa to complete projects such as the El Prado storm garden that are addressing vulnerabilities in the city’s central and lower basins most susceptible to flooding.

"In Tampa, we see the impacts of climate change every day, from rising temperatures to stronger storms. But we also see an opportunity to lead. That’s why we’re not just talking about resilience, we’re making it part of everything we do,” said Tampa Mayor Jane Castor. “With a full-time Resilience and Sustainability Director, a Climate Action and Equity Plan guiding our decisions, and a commitment to greener infrastructure, we’re building a city that’s stronger, safer, and more sustainable. Every step we take today protects our future.”

Connecting Public Safety and Climate Action

Investing in climate action goes hand-in-hand with investing in public safety. Climate solutions are critical tools for addressing core public safety concerns, including reducing crime, creating clean and vibrant public spaces, and protecting residents from harm during extreme weather. The working group has identified three core focus areas for implementing programs and initiatives where climate action and public safety intersect, including:

Basic Needs: A safe city is also one where residents have their basic needs met, from access to nutritious food, well-paying jobs, safe housing, and clean water and air. Across the country, mayors are improving public safety by meeting the basic needs of every resident through climate-smart solutions, such as investing in building green, affordable housing, reducing air pollution, and creating jobs in the rapidly growing green economy. These efforts help to ensure their residents are safer by avoiding hunger, exhaustion, disease, injury, and financial struggle.
Public Spaces: Caring for public spaces is essential for the safety and sustainability of communities. Well-designed streets protect pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike, and prioritizing road safety measures reduces accidents and injuries. Planting trees and caring for public parks encourages community engagement, boosts foot traffic, and generates positive economic impact for local businesses. In a comprehensive review of 45 studies, the International Journal of Environmental Research & Public Health has shown that parks and trees significantly reduce city crime.
Resilience: The impacts of climate change, including the increase of extreme weather events and an increasing number of extremely hot days, pose significant risks to individuals across America and require forward-thinking solutions to ensure residents’ safety. In 2024, the U.S. experienced 27 confirmed weather and climate disasters costing at least $1 billion in damages, which added financial stress to local economies. Whether it be rising temperatures, increases in flooding, or the growing prevalence of wildfires, local leaders are taking proactive steps to ensure their cities are better prepared to face these challenges and residents' safety remains paramount.

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

About C40 Cities

About the Urban Sustainability Directors Network

The Urban Sustainability Directors Network (USDN) is a peer-to-peer network of local government professionals from communities across the United States and Canada dedicated to creating a healthier environment, economic prosperity, and increased social equity.