News and Updates
Statement: Climate Mayors Welcome New U.S. National Determined Contribution (NDC) to Target 61-66% of National Emissions Reductions Putting U.S. Cities on a Path Towards Economic Prosperity
WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 19, 2024) – To establish a new path forward in tackling climate change, the Biden Administration has released a new U.S. National Determined Contribution (NDC) target of 61-66% economy-wide greenhouse gas emissions reductions by 2035. On the ninth anniversary of the U.S. joining the Paris Agreement, Climate Mayors welcomes this latest target which will be essential in guiding national and local efforts to address the climate crisis head-on and ensuring America’s economic competitiveness globally. The new NDC sets a bold vision for reducing emissions, supporting clean energy growth, and building healthy communities. Cities and local leaders will be essential for delivering on this vision and pledge to continue and accelerate efforts to ensure that every resident has what they need to thrive: clean air and water, a safer place to live, and opportunities for good-paying jobs.
Climate Mayors and nearly 350 U.S. Mayors have witnessed the impacts of climate change firsthand, such as historic extreme heat waves, hurricanes, floods, and wildfires, all of which have taken a significant toll on our communities. We’ve also seen how advancing clean energy projects, efficiency programs, and transportation initiatives in our cities have not only advanced the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions but have delivered a host of benefits for communities. As a result of city-wide plans to achieve ambitious local targets, thousands of well-paying green jobs have proliferated in American cities and neighborhoods are experiencing less air pollution, better health outcomes, and lower energy costs. Collaboration between local, state, private, and philanthropic partners will continue to prove central in delivering on our goals and ratcheting up an all-of-society approach to climate action. Our mayors remain committed to building cities of the future that effectively meet the needs of constituents and continue to reduce harmful emissions under this NDC.
“Today’s announcement of a new U.S. NDC serves as an important goalpost for our unwavering ambition as subnational actors continue to lead the fight against climate change and advance America’s economic competitiveness,” said Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright. “Our membership of over 350 U.S. Mayors is ready to do its part to achieve our national target and build on the progress we’ve made over the last decade. Cities across the country are putting the best interests of their communities first by investing in advanced energy and water efficiency programs, more equitable access to green infrastructure, and clean energy solutions that are cutting emissions – further securing a healthy and economically prosperous future for our communities.”
Climate Mayors Announces Appointment of Laura Jay as Deputy Director to Drive Local Climate Strategy
Climate Mayors is thrilled to announce that Laura Jay will be joining Climate Mayors as Deputy Director beginning in 2025. In this role, she will help shape and execute the strategic vision of the organization as set by the Executive Director, Board and Leadership Committee. Laura is an accomplished professional, bringing 15 years of experience working in non-profits advancing solutions to address climate change. Laura's expertise will be instrumental in driving the mission of our expanding organization.
Most recently, Laura served as the Regional Director for North America for C40 Cities where she elevated the position of US mayors nationally and globally and supported the deepening of engagement at the local level to drive impactful change on the ground. Prior to joining C40, Laura served as a Project Manager at Terrapin Bright Green
where she consulted to government agencies, developers and non-profits to create more sustainability policies and designs. She has also worked at the U.S. Green Building Council on governance and strategic planning. Laura holds a Master’s Degree in Urban Planning from Columbia University and is based in Chicago with her family.
Climate Mayors Drive Bold Climate Action in 2024
This year has been BIG for local climate action. Our organization and membership of visionary mayors have taken bold steps to combat the climate crisis. Climate Mayors cities have led the charge, deploying cutting-edge clean energy solutions, advancing comprehensive city-wide climate plans, and enhancing the quality of life for all residents. We’ve built strong momentum and are moving full speed ahead into 2025 to continue delivering results and driving climate ambition.
This year, our mayors spoke and gathered at a host of events including the U.S. Conference of Mayors, Aspen Climate Ideas, Climate Week NYC, and COP29 to engage in regional, national and international conversations to keep the needs of cities at the forefront of climate conversations. Climate Mayors were proud to rally around our shared mission of protecting cities and fostering effective collaboration across local, state, national, and global partnerships alongside U.S. climate leaders such as Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Biden Administration Senior Advisor John Podesta.
We launched our new #Electrify50 commitment to accelerate the US electric vehicle transition. This commitment will save taxpayer dollars, improve public health, increase access to charging, and create clean energy jobs across the country. Climate Mayors also announced a formalized collaboration with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to help cities across the nation better prepare for and respond to the impacts of climate change.
To advance policies and solutions that reduce emissions and protect cities from climate impacts, our organization urged the current administration and Congressional lawmakers to take critical and immediate action. We called upon the Biden Administration to finalize the strongest possible standards for heavy-duty vehicles and advocated for Congress to pass a comprehensive clean emergency disaster relief bill. Climate Mayors also applauded the release of final guidance on elective pay for the Inflation Reduction Act’s clean energy tax credits, the EPA’s final emissions rules for vehicles, and the announcement of $7 billion for EPA’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund.
Following the Presidential election, Climate Mayors affirmed their unwavering commitment to accelerate local climate action and to defend the investments on the national and local level that have launched us on a trajectory toward a sustainable future. Regardless of federal action or inaction, Climate Mayors across the nation will continue to be pragmatic leaders and deliver programs that ensure our environment, communities, health, and economy all thrive. In 2025, we will double down on investments that will lower energy costs, make our air and water cleaner, and bolster resilience to climate disasters. Climate Mayors seeks to deepen regional partnerships to form a bulwark against efforts to roll back progress and expand collaboration with business leaders investing in America’s economic prosperity. Are you a local leader or organization looking to do the same? Join us in 2025 as we fight for the future Americans demand and deserve.
Bloomberg: What Can US Cities and States Do for the Climate Under Trump? Plenty
The Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of roughly 350 mayors working to drive change locally but also the federal level. In the West, cities including Phoenix and Salt Lake City, which have been struggling with water shortages in the Colorado River basin, “are starting to get together to share best practices on what individual cities can do to better manage water,” said Mark Gold, the director of water scarcity solutions at the National Resources Defense Council. “This concept of trying to move towards self-sufficiency to build climate resilience is something that we’re talking about at length,” Gold said.
Fast Company: The Biden administration launched 66,000 infrastructure projects. Pete Buttigieg talks about what’s next
I think local government is hugely important, and state government will be very important as well. None of the projects we’re talking about, these 66,000 projects, none of them was conceived here at headquarters. And none of them is being delivered directly by the federal government. We provide the funds. It’s really the state, the city transit agencies, tribes, and others who are making it happen. So I do think that they will continue to lead the way. I remember a few years ago when a number of cities came together on the Climate Mayors—not just U.S. cities, but cities around the world that were tired of waiting for their respective national capitals to catch up on sustainability—and realize that between them they had most of the world’s GDP anyway. I do think you’ll maybe see a renewed season of leadership from the ground up to make sure that things keep happening even if it’s less steady here in Washington.
PRESS RELEASE: 415 Mayors and City Councilmembers Urge Congress to Swiftly Pass a Comprehensive, Clean Emergency Disaster Relief Bill for Impacted Communities
Washington, DC (November 18, 2024) – Communities across the U.S. have been devastated by more than 160 disaster declarations since 2023. Today, 415 mayors and councilmembers call on Congress to swiftly pass an emergency disaster relief bill to support communities impacted by these disasters. The initial Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) disaster relief funding allocated by Congress will soon be exhausted, and local leaders are urging Congress to fully replenish this funding. Mayors and councilmembers across the country are on the front-lines of disaster response and in order to effectively support their communities in responding to the devastating effects of historic storms, they will require strong and consistent support from Washington.
Communities across the country are grappling with increasingly frequent and intensified extreme weather events caused by the climate crisis. This is their new normal. The safety and livelihoods of communities must be a priority in the context of a warming world. The letter asks Congress to fully fund FEMA’s recovery efforts, replenish the Small Business Administration’s loan program to help businesses and homeowners, provide a flexible funding structure to allow cities to address the specific recovery needs of their communities, and more. Fully funding recovery efforts is not merely a matter of good economic policy, but a fundamental obligation of the federal government to deliver support for constituents who depend on these resources in their most vulnerable times of need.
“Hurricane Helene was a storm unlike Asheville has ever experienced – leaving our community devastated and working to rebuild our homes, infrastructure, and businesses,” said Mayor Esther Manheimer of Asheville, North Carolina. “This storm has shown that no place is truly a haven from climate change. Asheville is on a long road to recovery and our community needs federal funding now to not only deliver much-needed relief but to prepare for inevitable future disasters that are becoming more frequent and intense due to our changing climate.”
As American cities continue to recover from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, local leaders who are a part of Climate Mayors—a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors committed to climate action; the National League of Cities, representing 19,000 cities, towns and villages nationwide; U.S. Conference of Mayors, representing over 1,400 cities with populations of 30,000 or more; and C40 Cities, a network of mayors from nearly 100 world-leading cities, including 14 in the United States, supported the letter and urged Congressional leadership to pass a clean, disaster emergency supplemental bill as soon as possible.
“As mayors, we are the first line of defense when disasters strike, and we see firsthand the profound impacts on our communities,” said Mayor Jane Castor of Tampa, Florida. “After the unprecedented disasters that struck Tampa Bay this year, back-to-back hurricanes, federal support is critical for a whole of government approach to disaster response. We need to ensure FEMA and our first responders have the funding ready when the next disaster strikes.”
“Cities across our country are experiencing unprecedented, and repetitive, weather-related disasters. I can personally attest to the importance of Federal disaster assistance funding as a lifeline for our residents and our city. Supplemental funding is imperative to meet the needs cities around our nation are facing,” said Councilmember Abbie Kamin of Houston, Texas.
“Our mayors and their communities are experiencing first-hand the personal impacts of extreme weather events, said Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright. “Rebuilding stronger, safer, and more resilient communities requires a true partnership with the federal government. With timely support from Congress, cities can recover from this historic year of disasters and rebuild essential infrastructure that prioritizes the well-being and future of our residents.”
“Local leaders are on the front lines, as more severe and more frequent natural disasters hit their communities,” said National League of Cities CEO & Executive Director Clarence E. Anthony. “Cities, towns and villages need a federal partner to support response, recovery and rebuilding with resilience in mind. NLC urges Congress to pass an emergency supplemental disaster funding bill without delay to provide federal agencies with the essential funds necessary for recovery efforts.”
"The U.S. Conference of Mayors is pleased to join with the National League of Cities, Climate Mayors, and C40 Cities to encourage mayors and other elected local officials to urge Congress to swiftly pass a comprehensive, emergency disaster supplemental appropriations bill. This bill is essential to fund the recovery from more than 160 major disaster declarations since 2023 that have impacted communities across America. Our cities and the people who reside within them desperately need this help and Congress must act now,” said Tom Cochran, U.S. Conference of Mayors CEO and Executive Director.
"Mayors in the US and around the world are on the frontlines of their communities' impacts to extreme weather caused by climate change. Every year we see more historic disasters and there is no time to hesitate in giving people the support they need to recover from these devastating events," said Laura Jay, Regional Director for North America at C40. "We, along with our partners at Climate Mayors, US Conference of Mayors and the National League of Cities, call on Congress to swiftly pass the Federal disaster assistance relief that communities desperately need."
In the letter, local leaders called for the supplemental funding to:
Fully fund FEMA’s recovery efforts for recent and future disasters
Replenish the Small Business Administration Assistance Loan Program to help business owners and homeowners rebuild
Ensure funding for the Economic Development Administration’s on-the-ground response programs
Refill the U.S. Department of Transportation Emergency Relief highway and transit funds
Provide funding to support long-term recovery efforts through the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Resilience program, which is essential for helping communities sustainably rebuild their infrastructure, and
Increase funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program for families and children impacted by major national disasters since 2023.
Read the full letter here.
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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 Twitter and LinkedIn.
Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com
About National League of Cities:
The National League of Cities (NLC) is the voice of America’s cities, towns and villages, representing more than 200 million people. NLC works to strengthen local leadership, influence federal policy and drive innovative solutions. Stay connected with NLC on Facebook, X, LinkedIn and Instagram.
Media Contact: media@nlc.org
About U.S. Conference of Mayors:
The U.S. Conference of Mayors is the official nonpartisan organization of cities with populations of 30,000 or more. There are more than 1,400 such cities in the country today, and each city is represented in the Conference by its chief elected official, the mayor. Follow our work on X, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, and Medium.
Media Contact: Sara Durr, sdurr@usmayors.org
About C40 Cities:
C40 is a network of nearly 100 mayors of the world’s leading cities working to deliver the urgent action needed right now to confront the climate crisis and create a future where everyone, everywhere can thrive. Mayors of C40 cities are committed to using a science-based and people-focused approach to help the world limit global heating to 1.5°C and build healthy, equitable and resilient communities. We work alongside a broad coalition of representatives from labour, business, the youth climate movement and civil society to support mayors to halve emissions by 2030 and help phase out fossil use while increasing urban climate resilience and equity.
To learn more about the work of C40 and our cities, please visit our website or follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.
Media Contact: c40@fgsglobal.com
STATEMENT: Climate Mayors, America Is All In and U.S. Climate Alliance on Future of Climate Action Under Trump: “We Will Not Waver…We Will Not Turn Back”
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the leadership of the country’s top subnational climate action coalitions – Climate Mayors, America Is All In and the U.S. Climate Alliance – issued the following statement regarding the future of climate action in America after Donald J. Trump was elected President:
“America’s climate-leading states, cities, Tribal nations, businesses, and institutions will not waver in our commitment to confronting the climate crisis, protecting our progress, and relentlessly pressing forward. No matter what, we’ll fight for the future Americans demand and deserve, where our communities, our health, our environment, and our economy all thrive. We will not turn back.”
Delegations representing these three coalitions will carry this message with them to the global stage, including to the UN Climate Change Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan and to Urban 20 (U20) 2024 Mayors' Summit in Brazil, where they will also strongly affirm America’s sustained commitment to working with the global community to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement.
America Is All In, the U.S. Climate Alliance and Climate Mayors together represent nearly two-thirds of the U.S. population and three-quarters of U.S. GDP through 24 governors, nearly 350 mayors, and thousands of public and private institutions.
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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 Twitter and LinkedIn.
MEDIA CONTACT: Climate Mayors, climatemayors@fgsglobal.com
About America Is All In
America Is All In is the most expansive coalition of leaders ever assembled in support of climate action in the United States. Mobilizing thousands of U.S. cities, states, tribal nations, businesses, schools, and faith, health, and cultural institutions, the coalition is focused on pushing and partnering with the federal government to develop an ambitious, all-in national climate strategy that meets the urgency of the climate crisis; scaling climate action around the country to accelerate the transition to a 100 percent clean energy economy; and promoting the leadership of non-federal actors on the world stage. With its Co-Chairs Michael R. Bloomberg, the U.N. Secretary General’s Special Envoy on Climate Ambition and Solutions, Washington Governor Jay Inslee, Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles, Apple Vice President of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives Lisa Jackson, and former White House National Climate Advisor and 13th U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Gina McCarthy, America Is All In, supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies and led by World Wildlife Fund, is driving a nationwide movement to cut U.S. emissions in half or more by 2030 from 2005 levels and reach net zero emissions by 2050, while protecting against the impacts of climate change.
MEDIA CONTACT: America Is All In, all-in@fgsglobal.com
About the U.S. Climate Alliance
Launched on June 1, 2017 to help fill the void left by the Trump administration’s decision to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris Agreement, the U.S. Climate Alliance is a bipartisan coalition of 24 governors securing America’s net-zero future by advancing state-led, high-impact climate action. Governors in the Alliance have pledged to collectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 26-28% below 2005 levels by 2025, at least 50-52% below 2005 levels by 2030, and collectively achieve overall net-zero greenhouse gas emissions as soon as practicable, and no later than 2050. The Alliance’s states and territories continue to demonstrate that climate action goes hand-in-hand with economic growth, job creation, and better public health. While reducing collective greenhouse gas emissions by 19%, Alliance members have increased their collective GDP by 30%. The coalition’s states and territories are employing more workers in the clean energy sector, achieving lower levels of dangerous air pollutants, and preparing more effectively for climate impacts and executing more pre-disaster planning than the rest of the country.
MEDIA CONTACT: U.S. Climate Alliance, press@climatealliance.org
STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Reaffirm Commitment to Local Climate Action and Pledge Continued Ambition Under Second Trump Administration
Washington, DC (November 6, 2024) – Today, Mayor Justin M. Bibb, Mayor of Cleveland and Chair of Climate Mayors – a network of nearly 350 mayors demonstrating local climate leadership through meaningful action – issued the following statement in response to the election of Donald Trump as President of the United States:
“As Chair of Climate Mayors, I’d like to reaffirm that our network of nearly 350 U.S. mayors are steadfast in our commitment to accelerating local climate action and meeting our established national goals under the Paris Climate Agreement during the second administration of President Donald Trump. Mayors engage closely with their communities every day and understand that we cannot afford the costs of exiting the Paris Agreement as was done in 2017. Climate Mayors nationwide have witnessed the impacts of climate change firsthand, such as historic extreme heat waves, hurricanes, floods, and wildfires, all of which have taken a significant toll on our communities. Which is why we are doubling down on climate action and continuing to reduce emissions, support clean energy growth, and build healthier communities. Our commitment to combating the existential threat of climate change and protecting the federal legislation that provides cities with vital funding remains unwavering.
“By utilizing funding and provisions within the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, our city leaders have launched us on a trajectory toward a sustainable future. Despite 60% of Inflation Reduction Act projects benefiting Republican districts, conservative congressional leaders continue to threaten our progress with sweeping rollbacks of much-needed support. These clean energy provisions have sparked a surge in clean energy manufacturing, private investment, and job creation, prompting 18 Republican members of Congress to urge leadership to keep them in place. As we enter the Trump-Vance administration, Climate Mayors will continue to fight for legislation that benefits hard-working Americans and protects the most vulnerable populations by engaging key partners, policymakers, and stakeholders in our fight for just and innovative legislation.
“We understand the urgent responsibility to deliver on U.S. climate action in the absence of national leadership. Our members will work alongside states, businesses and other sectors to ensure our cities are beacons of climate progress.”
Through the collective power of the network, cities can forge a path toward a sustainable and just tomorrow for all. As the big tent for local climate leaders, Mayors can demonstrate their commitment to keeping the U.S. on track through subnational climate leadership and benefit from the support of our growing network of Climate Mayors at https://www.climatemayors.org/join-us.
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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 Twitter and LinkedIn.
Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com
Context News: US cities seek to ‘Trump-proof’ inequality action ahead of vote
Still, U.S. cities gained significant experience in filling a perceived gap in federal policy during the first Trump administration, Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb said in an interview.
"We've been here before," said Bibb, who also chairs the national Climate Mayors group of more than 500 cities.
"America's mayors and Climate Mayors will work to continue to ensure that we take full advantage of the incentives, as we need to make sure we're addressing the climate crisis at the local level. We're already planning for either scenario," he said of the election outcome.
Wisconsin Examiner: How three big White House bills fixed streets and met climate priorities in one city
Climate change was a priority of Mason’s from when was first elected seven years ago. He committed the city to following the Paris Climate Accords.
Former President Donald Trump was in the White House at the time and withdrew from the accords in 2017. With federal policymakers uninterested in addressing climate change, Mason said, he looked elsewhere for support.
He joined the bipartisan Climate Mayors organization, municipal chief executives concerned about what many viewed as the central environmental concern of the time. He found the group invaluable for sharing ideas and learning what could work.
“You hear people, ‘Oh, you can’t do police cars that are electric,’” Mason said. “And then you go to a conference, and here’s 12 that are using electric vehicles as police cars.”
KIRO 7: First electric firetruck in the state coming to Redmond
The City of Redmond prepares to receive the state’s first electric fire truck as it looks to electrify its municipal fleets.
With the city’s goal of electrifying at least 50% of its fleet by 2035, the Redmond Fire Department will receive its first electric fire truck by the end of the year.
In August, the mayor of Redmond joined 350 U.S. mayors in a collaboration to increase the electrification of its government fleet.
“Electrifying municipal fleets and building our charging infrastructure is key to building a green economy in Redmond,” said Mayor Birney. “By investing in sustainable transportation alongside fellow Climate Mayors, we not only reduce emissions, but also lay the foundation for new opportunities for innovation and sustainability in our community.”
Governing: Hundreds of Mayors Agree to Set the Pace for Electric Vehicle Adoption
A bipartisan group of 350 mayors hopes to lead by example, committing to collectively electrify at least half of their fleets by 2030 and increase EV chargers by at least 500 percent by 2035.
They are members of Climate Mayors, a peer-to-peer network of city leaders in 48 states working together to address climate challenges. The majority are Democrats, but the group also includes Republicans. The announcement is meant to be a market signal to American makers of cars and light-duty trucks.
PRESS RELEASE: Climate Mayors and NOAA join forces to advance climate resilience
Today, Climate Mayors and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) that advances collaborative efforts to help cities across the nation better prepare for and respond to the impacts of climate change.
This MOU formalizes collaboration between NOAA and Climate Mayors to accelerate the use of climate information and expertise at the local level. The agreement will also ensure that NOAA’s world-class climate science and tools are easy for local leaders across the country to access, understand and use. By strengthening collaborative efforts between NOAA and Climate Mayors, mayors will have the resources they need to act on their commitment to take climate action in their communities.
“The climate crisis continues to threaten the lives and livelihoods of communities across the nation,” said NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad, Ph.D. “This partnership with the Climate Mayors will undoubtedly help make way for NOAA's vision of creating a more climate-ready nation — one that is ready for, responsive and resilient to the rapidly changing climate.”
“Impactful solutions only evolve from a deep understanding of climate science and what is truly at stake for cities in the face of climate change,” said Kate Wright, executive director of Climate Mayors. “By partnering with NOAA, Climate Mayors across the country will gain access to insightful climate data and services — enhancing their ability to prepare for and respond to a changing climate. This partnership will ensure that all communities, especially those most at risk, have the opportunity to bolster resilience and build a safer tomorrow.”
The MOU outlines ways for NOAA and the Climate Mayors to work together to boost climate resilience by improving the development and dissemination of climate information and services.
NOAA and the Climate Mayors agree to collaborate on the following actions, with the shared goal of increasing local access to climate science and tools:
NOAA will provide regional and local climate decision support services, including relevant climate information to help core partners and communities prepare and make decisions when faced with high-impact weather or climate-related events.
Climate Mayors will inform NOAA’s climate service development and delivery to support a climate-ready nation and provide annual reporting of data gaps.
Climate Mayors will highlight adaptation successes, contribute to case studies and lessons learned and encourage its members to participate in monitoring and evaluation efforts led by NOAA and its partners.
NOAA will annually brief Climate Mayors leadership on climate products, data, tools services and other relevant opportunities. The Climate Mayors will also receive timely updates on climate tools and other informational products related to seasonal and high-impact events.
The MOU will remain in effect for five years and will be reviewed every two years.
Climate, weather, and water affect all life on our ocean planet. NOAA’s mission is to understand and predict our changing environment, from the deep sea to outer space, and to manage and conserve America’s coastal and marine resources.
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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 Twitter and LinkedIn.
Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com
About NOAA
Climate, weather, and water affect all life on our ocean planet. NOAA’s mission is to understand and predict our changing environment, from the deep sea to outer space, and to manage and conserve America’s coastal and marine resources.
Media Contact: Lori Arguelles, lori.arguelles@noaa.gov, 571 439-4084
PRESS RELEASE: Northeast Ohio Mayors Unite to Deliver Climate Action that Benefits Local Residents
White House representative joins seven mayors across the region to coordinate implementation of the Inflation Reduction Act
Cleveland, OH - (August 29, 2024) — On Tuesday, August 27, seven mayors from the Northeast Ohio region met with White House representative John Lucey, Senior Advisor to the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs for Implementation, to discuss local and regional opportunities for clean energy, transportation, and infrastructure projects that will improve residents' health, safety, and environmental impact. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) is delivering unprecedented funding to cities across the country for transformative projects that reduce carbon emissions and improve lives. Tuesday’s meeting focused on how the region’s mayors and city leaders can ensure Northeast Ohio residents benefit from lower energy costs, infrastructure improvements, and climate benefits created by the IRA.
The convening took place as part of a two day workshop on IRA implementation, led by Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb, and organized with Climate Mayors, C40 Cities, and the Urban Sustainability Directors Network. The workshop gathered NE OH City staff and community stakeholders in a collaborative learning environment at Cleveland Public LIbrary where they worked to transform innovative ideas into actionable plans that will help build a thriving and resilient Cleveland and greater Northeast Ohio region.
Cities across Northeast Ohio are implementing transformative projects with support from the Inflation Reduction Act. Notable projects include:
$1 million US EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) planning grant awarded to Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency (NOACA) in support of a regional decarbonization framework for NE Ohio
$129 million CPRG Implementation Grant awarded to Cuyahoga County, the City of Cleveland and City of Painesville to develop solar on landfills
$3.4 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Service for transforming urban forestry maintenance and management in environmental justice communities in and around Cleveland
Two Solar for All awards that will benefit NE Ohioans. $156M for the Industrial Heartland Coalition and $156M to the State of Ohio for the equitable distribution of residential solar
Workforce development and forecasted economic and health benefits are integrated into each of these projects.
White House representative John Lucey led a mayoral roundtable discussion on local strategies for engaging residents and community stakeholders in project development, additional funding sources, and ensuring individuals and families have access to the tax breaks and funding for personal action.
Justin Bibb, Mayor of Cleveland, said, "Local leadership and collaboration is crucial in leveraging historical federal funding from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) and taking meaningful and equitable climate action in cities like Cleveland throughout NE Ohio that continue to experience climate vulnerability as a result of historic disinvestment."
Kate Johnson, C40 Cities, said “Cities are bringing the promise of federal climate funding to life. The Inflation Reduction Act provides unprecedented tools and funding to local governments to invest in projects that will improve health and safety, create good green jobs, and reduce emissions. The world is watching the U.S. for climate leadership, and events like today’s summit are proof that when mayors act, progress is achievable and everyone from local residents to global citizens feel the benefits.”
Kate Wright, Climate Mayors, said, “Today’s collaboration between Northeast Ohio mayors and the White House underscores the vital role that local leadership plays in driving impactful climate action. Climate Mayors is committed to aligning the efforts of our member cities with the unprecedented opportunities offered through the Inflation Reduction Act to not only advance sustainable infrastructure but also ensure that these initiatives directly benefit the residents of communities across the nation. This is climate action that is both ambitious and equitable, creating healthier, more resilient cities for all."
Julia Peek, USDN, said, “We are so excited to see this collaboration across cities and sectors in Northeast Ohio to help communities get the most out of the Inflation Reduction Act. This funding is creating opportunities for communities to have cleaner air, healthier families, well-paying jobs, and thriving places to work, live, and play.”
Kahlil Seren, Mayor of Cleveland Heights, said “As a Mayor addressing the climate crisis, I’m centered on the practical ways that I can secure a safe and healthy future for the people I serve. Federal funding for public EV chargers in our city is one of many practical examples of making it easier for all of us to contribute to the solution.”
Jack Bradley, Mayor of Lorain, said, “Lorain is proud to collaborate with county and state partners in addressing the critical issue of brownfield sites within our community. This joint effort reflects our shared commitment to revitalizing these areas, ensuring a safer environment, and unlocking new opportunities for development and growth. Together, we are turning potential hazards into promising futures for our residents and businesses.”
Annette Blackwell, Mayor of Maple Heights, said, “The City of Maple Heights is a city that has found its way back and that journey has included a focus on a better quality of life which include advancing environmental justice and addressing health inequities.”
David Weiss, Mayor of Shaker Heights, said, “The IRA’s rebates and education help support our broad-based climate change and sustainability efforts in Shaker Heights. Specifically, Direct Pay is helping us to electrify our fleet of city-owned vehicles. Through Direct Pay, we are eligible for a payment of $30,000 to offset our purchase of four EVs for our expanded mental health response program. That is nearly enough for one additional vehicle. In addition, we have been looking at options for solar on City buildings for several years and are closer now than at any other time because of the possibility of offsetting 30% to 40% of the cost through these programs.”
Michael Brennan, Mayor of University Heights, said, “Local leaders are working in concert to reduce greenhouse gas emissions on a local level. Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, local governments have resources to draw from. This roundtable was an excellent opportunity to show our constituents that like-minded leaders are making change happen incrementally at home, so that together we will create global progress.”
Shammas Malik, Mayor of Akron, said, "Forums like today's are vital to helping cities like Akron take advantage of federal funding and develop projects that serve the environment, our people, and our economies. We aim to leverage funding for the benefit of our community through initiatives that tackle important issues like housing rehabilitation, emissions-free transportation, clean energy integration, climate resilience improvements, and so much more."
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About Climate Mayors
Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network that has mobilized more than 750 U.S. mayors since 2014, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities. 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 Twitter and LinkedIn.
Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com
About C40 Cities
C40 is a network of nearly 100 mayors of the world’s leading cities working to deliver the urgent action needed right now to confront the climate crisis and create a future where everyone, everywhere can thrive. Mayors of C40 cities are committed to using a science-based and people-focused approach to help the world limit global heating to 1.5°C and build healthy, equitable and resilient communities. Through a Global Green New Deal, mayors are working alongside a broad coalition of representatives from labour, business, the youth climate movement and civil society to go further and faster than ever before. To learn more about the work of C40 and our cities, please visit our website, or follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.
About USDN
USDN brings local government sustainability practitioners together to learn, collaborate, and accelerate the work of local sustainability. By equipping them with the knowledge, resources, and partnerships they need to succeed, USDN helps advance change locally in member communities as well as across the field of practice. The aggregate impact and influence of our collective work makes an equitable, resilient, and sustainable society more attainable.
425 Magazine: City of Redmond Joins Initiative to Electrify Municipal Fleets
Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of mayors from across the United States committed to climate action. The goal is to electrify at least 50% of municipal fleets by 2030 and increase electric vehicle charging infrastructure by 500% by 2035, with at least 40% of charging investments to benefit disadvantaged communities, a release said.
"Electrifying municipal fleets and building our charging infrastructure is key to building a green economy in Redmond,” said Redmond Mayor Angela Birney in a press statement. “By investing in sustainable transportation alongside fellow Climate Mayors, we not only reduce emissions, but also lay the foundation for new opportunities for innovation and sustainability in our community.”
Letter: Climate Mayors, C40, and USDN Urge President Biden and Director of the Office of Management and Budget, Shalanda Young, on Fiscal Year 2026 Agency Budget Appropriations Priorities
August 20, 2024
Dear President Biden and Director Shalanda Young:
Local governments are committed to proactively preparing for climate change that avoid and minimize its negative impacts, to rebuilding stronger and better when disasters strike, to mitigating structural inequities, to slashing greenhouse gas emissions, and to building opportunities for Americans to thrive and reach their full potential. These goals require targeted investments in American cities to build out our nation’s sustainable infrastructure, to create well-paying “high road” jobs, and to support a resilient, clean energy future.
As members of Climate Mayors, a bipartisan network of over 350 mayors committed to climate action, the Urban Sustainability Directors Network (USDN), a coalition of local government sustainability leaders representing more than 320 communities in the US and Canada, and C40 Cities, a global network of nearly 100 of the world’s leading cities, we are writing to share our FY26 appropriations priorities for climate and clean energy programs. On behalf of these national organizations that represent mayors and sustainability offices that are leading on climate action and sustainability, we respectfully ask for your support in making federal funding more accessible for cities that are often capacity and resource constrained. Additionally, we recognize the federal government's budgetary constraints due to the Fiscal Responsibility Act (debt ceiling bill) and hope you consider these requests from our organizations. Local governments play a pivotal role in climate action and the federal government has a crucial role in supporting local governments in their place-based actions to achieve climate resilience. We ask that you review this paper, developed by C40 Cities, Climate Mayors and USDN to illustrate the roles that cities will play in implementing IRA and BIL, identify the tools and resources local governments need to deploy federal climate funds most efficiently and effectively, and recommend what federal agencies, state governments, funders, and climate advocates can do to help.
Remove Barriers to Help Local Governments Confront the Climate Crisis
In the face of frequent and immediate climate emergencies, local governments need funding and support to simultaneously cut greenhouse gas emissions, confront climate hazards, and address long-standing and intersecting issues related to equity, health, and economic opportunity. Thanks to the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), historic levels of funding are available for climate action; however, barriers remain for cities that are due to or exacerbated by the design of federal funding programs. We urge the federal government to adopt the following principles, which centers local climate action, and we urge the uptake of these specific recommendations related to individual program areas, to ensure that spending supports, and does not hinder, confronting the climate emergency.
Principles for Federal Support of Local Climate Action
Local governments are ready to meet this moment and build an economy that is inclusive, robust, and sustainable. Therefore, we urge federal agencies to adopt the follow principles to support local climate action:
Prioritize and expand programs where funding flows directly to local governments from the federal government.
Provide clear guidance to states on how to effectively engage local and tribal governments and community organizations in the award of state formula funding, to improve inclusivity and accountability.
Ensure that federal programs and funding (including IRA rebates and tax credits) reach disadvantaged communities and allow sufficient administrative and implementation flexibility to meet their needs, including pre-award flexibility to allow for the use of state and local data that is more up-to-date and in tune with community needs..
Simplify the process, remove administrative hurdles, and provide accessible funding and technical assistance to local and tribal governments and community organizations to ensure they can participate in funding opportunities, including budget allowances for pre-proposal costs for more programs, building on the recently announced and welcome changes to the Uniform Grants Guidance.
Provide technical assistance and other resources for post-award grants management that builds capacity within local governments and provides confidence in the ability to handle additional awards if received.
Ensure that federal spending is accompanied by workforce standards and funding for workforce development that prioritizes job quality and equitable access to well-paying high road careers.
Summary of the FY2026 Budgetary Requests
In addition to the federal government adopting the above principles for federal support of climate action, our organizations recommend the following budgetary requests for the following priority federal programs.
Building Decarbonization
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) - Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program
Increase funding for EECBG to $3.1 billion and broaden the scope and definitions within EECBG.
Fund the EECBG program annually.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) - Green and Resilient Retrofit Program (GRRP)
Renew this direct loan and grant program at $1 billion as initially authorized by the IRA.
Climate Resilience & Hazard Mitigation
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) Program
Increase BRIC program funding to $2 billion.
Require FEMA to brief on its current and planned strategies to help state, local, tribal and territorial governments effectively leverage the BRIC program.
Set aside funding to provide technical assistance to communities in the development of building codes, or, where local governments do not have jurisdiction over the building code, other strategies to decarbonize and improve the resilience of buildings.
Allow funding to flow directly to local governments.
Update the program to include heat waves as one of the natural hazards projects can address.
Maintain a streamlined benefit-cost analysis process in competitions where such data is required.
Community-Centered Transportation
U.S.Department of Transportation (DOT) Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program (RCP)
Fund the program at $205 million in FY26 including funding for out-years of current grants and new funding for additional grants.
Renew this grant program at $1 billion annually as initially funded in FY22.
Sustainability Workforce Development
U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Department of Transportation, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Provide additional funding for clean energy, transportation, and green infrastructure projects built with high road labor standards, and additional funding for projects built with domestic content standards.
Provide $500 million to help cities formalize community workforce agreements (CWAs) including support for CWA capacity building (training and technical assistance).
Building Decarbonization
Local governments are uniquely positioned to implement building decarbonization. Building decarbonization is a critical pathway for local governments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower energy costs, and provide healthier, more comfortable homes and places of work. We very much appreciate the increased emphasis on energy efficiency programs in the IIJA and the IRA, and we request that you include increases in the following programs.
U.S. Department of Energy
Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program - $3.1 billion
The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program represents the largest nationwide direct, equitable investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies at the local level in U.S. history. The legacy of the EECBG program provides local communities with consistent funding resources that will increase renewable energy capacity, technical knowledge, and deployment of energy efficiency projects at the local level.
EECBG is one of the most important programs for local sustainability offices, because it is flexible and much of the funding is given directly to local governments. The program empowers local governments to make decisive actions in their communities that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, reduce total energy use and costs, and spur economic growth with the creation and retention of jobs. Communities are able to use EECBG to directly implement their own energy and conservation goals and Climate Action Plans. The continued investments in the EECBG program will rapidly increase local government's capabilities to meet national carbon emission reduction goals while also improving local economies.
Therefore, we ask that you increase funding for EECBG to the ARRA-era funding level of $3.1 billion. We also ask to broaden the scope and definitions within EECBG to allow funding for:
community-based project development and implementation;
water efficiency;,
energy efficiency in building retrofit programs;
decarbonization of transit modes and buildings through electrification;
seed money for finance programs;
training and support services related to jobs;
an oversight mechanism that ensures rapid and equitable distribution of funds; and
the incorporation of labor and community standards for projects.
Finally, we urge you to recommend that the EECBG funding receive annual, permanent appropriations and additional funding for staff at DOE to implement the program. The predictability of funding enables cities to build capacity and plan for future investments and sustained programs.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Green and Resilient Retrofit Program (GRRP) - $1 billion
The Green and Resilient Retrofit Program provides grants or loans to landlords of HUD assisted properties serving very low-income families, seniors, and persons with disabilities. Projects can measure energy usage and efficiency, reduce energy use, improve energy and water efficiency, enhance indoor air quality, implement zero-emission strategies, and address climate resilience. This funding is essential to communities as it prepares and protects the most vulnerable residents and properties by reducing their exposure to hazards and by protecting life, livability, and property when disaster strikes. Therefore, we request that this program be renewed at $1 billion as initially authorized by the IRA.
Climate Resilience & Hazard Mitigation
In the face of frequent climate emergencies, local governments need continuous funding to proactively improve community resilience alongside the intermittent funding that comes following a disaster. There is disproportionately more federal funding available for disaster recovery than hazard mitigation, and the funding that is available for recovery is difficult to access and comes with procedural delays and obstacles. Therefore, we recommend additional funding and policy consideration for the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities Program.
Federal Emergency Management Agency
Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) Program - $2 billion
The national significance of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) Program lies in its ability to support states, local governments, tribes and territories across the country as they undertake hazard mitigation projects, reducing the risks they face from disasters and natural hazards.
For the FY 2023 competition, the program received 1,234 sub-applications from every state, 5 territories, and 35 tribes, requesting $5.66 billion in federal cost share funding. However, it was only able to fund 656 projects. We are thankful for these resources and the $1 billion authorized in the IIJA for FY2023. However, as with other grant programs relevant to sustainability, we also know that the program is consistently oversubscribed.
We request that the BRIC program be funded at $2 billion in FY2026, as included in the FY 2025 Appropriations Committee budget and the Homeland Security Appropriations Bill. We also request that additional funds be set aside as part of BRIC (or in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Energy’s Building Energy Codes Program) to assist communities in the development of building codes or, where local governments do not have jurisdiction over the building code, other strategies to decarbonize and improve the resilience of buildings and other community assets.
Finally, eligible direct applicants for BRIC funding include States, the District of Columbia, U.S. Territories, and Federally Recognized Tribal Governments. This process, while encouraging coordination within a State, also delays the distribution of funding to local communities and poses additional hurdles. We urge you to allow direct funding to local governments with a requirement that they coordinate with and get approval from the State Hazard Mitigation Officer on their projects.
Community-Centered Transportation
Local governments play a crucial role in shaping sustainable transportation systems that benefit their residents and the environment. Federal investments in community-centered transportation and clean mobility initiatives allow local governments to create comprehensive public transit networks, expand cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, enhance accessibility for all residents, and significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions. Ultimately, federal investment in local community centered transportation is vital for creating livable, sustainable urban environments that support both human well-being and environmental goals. Therefore, we suggest additional funding for the Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program.
U.S. Department of Transportation
Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program (RCP) - $1 billion
Federal highway policy in the mid-20th century allowed for the construction of highways where land costs were the lowest or where political resistance was weakest, often cutting through low-income and minority communities. Community members that remained have continued to deal with the impacts of highways, creating a physical barrier to
opportunity and other negative impacts. The DOT Reconnecting Communities Program helps reverse these harmful policies by advancing community-centered transportation connection projects that improve access to daily needs such as jobs, education, healthcare, food, nature, and recreation, and fostering equitable development and restoration. Therefore, we request that this program be funded at $205 million in FY26 to accommodate both ongoing grants in progress and new awards. We also recommend that this program be renewed at $1 billion as initially funded in FY22.
Sustainability Workforce Development
There are not enough contractors and workers available to meet the true need of building retrofits, construction, and clean energy installation to meet local climate goals. Current workforce development programs do not have sufficient scale for the training and reskilling necessary. We recommend that more opportunities be added for low-income and communities of color to benefit from the sustainability job boom and to access high-road, family-sustaining jobs that serve their communities. This is key to meeting just transition goals.
Labor Standards
High road labor standards sit at the intersection of worker rights, social justice, and environmentalism – and they offer a platform to build coalitions that can collectively pursue climate and equity goals with a more inclusive perspective. These standards include family-sustaining wages (i.e., prevailing wages for construction occupations, wage floors for other occupations), employer-provided benefits, career pathways, and safe and healthy working conditions. We request that you provide additional funding for clean energy, transportation, and green infrastructure projects built
with high road labor standards, and additional funding for projects built with domestic content standards through the following programs:
DOT On the Job Training Program,
DOT Public Transportation Technical Assistance and Workforce Development Program,
DOE Advancing Equity Through Workforce Partnerships,
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) EPA Brownfields Grant Program, and
EPA Innovative Water Infrastructure Workforce Development Grant Program.
We ask that at least $500 million should be provided through the above mentioned programs to help local governments formalize community workforce agreements (CWAs) between government, labor, and community stakeholders, including support for CWA capacity building (training and technical assistance), facilitated convenings, negotiations and collaborative oversight for such agreements, as well as support for aligning the workforce ecosystem around high road standards.
International Climate Financing
In addition to financing solutions to combat the climate crisis at home, the U.S. has a moral responsibility as a major contributor to climate change to lessen the burden it has passed on to countries who’ve done the least to cause the problem. Many low-and middle-income countries experience greater harm than do rich countries, but they have less wealth with which to repair the damage. Rich countries pledged to provide $100 billion a year by 2020. The US share of this, based on its past emissions, would be $40 billion. The US must, at a minimum, deliver on its commitment to provide climate financing of $11.4 billion per year to the developing world while mainstreaming consideration of climate change across all foreign aid funding. This level of climate finance would not only signal the commitment of the US government to addressing the global climate crisis, but would also spur the growth of green investment and business opportunities for US firms.
Conclusion
We appreciate your urgent consideration of the priorities noted above. Should you be interested in additional priorities and needs of local government needs related to climate and sustainability, please consider C40, Climate Mayors, and USDN as resources and call on us if you need information in this space. Should you have questions, please contact Cynthia McCoy, Urban Sustainability Directors Network Director of Federal Engagement at cynthiamccoy@usdn.org; Kate Johnson, C40 Director of Federal Affairs at kjohnson@c40.org; and Meghan Pazik, Policy Director at Climate Mayors, meghan@climate-mayors.org. .
Sincerely,
Kate Johnson, Interim Regional Director for North America, C40 Cities
Cynthia McCoy, Federal Engagement Director, Urban Sustainability Directors Network
Kate Wright, Executive Director of Climate Mayors
Axios: Justin Bibb and Climate Mayors embrace EVs
Why it matters: Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb chairs Climate Mayors, which was established in 2014.
The group believes that wider EV adoption delivers vast benefits, including cost savings, cleaner air, and good-paying jobs in a burgeoning industry.
Driving the news: The nearly 350 mayors also committed to dramatically increasing electric vehicle (EV) chargers in their communities.
Part of the group's pledge is ensuring that 40% of the new charging infrastructure benefits disadvantaged communities.
Between the lines: The pledge is a response to the Biden administration's goal to make 50% of all new vehicle sales electric by 2030.
What they're saying: "I'm excited by our collective commitment," Bibb said in a statement. "Transportation accounts for tons of toxic emissions, and it's up to us to lead by example by prioritizing clean technologies."
Reality check: As of last year, Cleveland's EV registration rate was among the lowest in big cities nationwide.
EVs accounted for only 2.2% of new vehicle registrations in the metro area, up marginally from 1.9% in January the previous year.
The big picture: Ohio plans to spend $169 million in federal dollars to install EV charging stations across the state over the next five years.
EV Info: Mayors Pledge to Electrify 50% of City Fleets by 2030, Increase Charging 500% by 2035
The commitment from nearly 350 US Mayors, as part of the Climate Mayors program, to electrify at least 50% of municipal fleets by 2030 and boost EV chargers by 500% by 2035 is a significant step forward in advancing the adoption of electric vehicles and addressing climate change.
Climate Mayors made the bold announcement for #Electrify50, on August 13, 2024, the second anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The IRA was a part of the the Biden-Harris Administration’s great success in fighting climate change, with the largest and boldest action for climate in US history, including comprehensive support of the fast-moving and exciting EV revolution in America.
It’s impressive how Climate Mayors has evolved over a decade from its inception in 2014. Their new commitment to electrify municipal fleets and expand EV charging infrastructure reflects a strong and sustained effort to address climate change at the local level. By focusing on cleaner air, green jobs, and equitable access to charging, they are setting a powerful example for other cities and communities to follow. This initiative could serve as a model for achieving broader EV adoption and advancing climate goals nationwide.
Semafor: To tear down Biden’s climate legacy, Vance needs to go through Ohio’s mayors
“In my private conversations with Senator Vance, he’s been very supportive of what we’re trying to do,” said Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb, who this week joined a group of 350 other US mayors in committing to electrify half their cities’ vehicle fleet by 2030. “But I’m certainly concerned about the election and the impact it could have. If [Vance] is elected we really hope to talk to him about how to support this.”
Bibb is a Democrat, but Ohio’s mayors have become a bipartisan bulwark in support of the IRA in a state where climate policy is usually much more divisive, said Joe Flarida, executive director of Power a Clean Future Ohio, an advocacy group that guides city governments on how to take advantage of IRA tax credits.
Electrive: 350 US mayors pledge to electrify 50 per cent of their fleets
The Climate Mayors initiative was founded ten years ago by US mayors who see climate change as a serious problem. Now, around 350 mayors from the initiative have formulated the joint goal of electrifying half of municipal vehicle fleets by 2030.