​​Climate Mayors Welcomes 2024 Leadership Team

Climate Mayors closes out the year by welcoming a new leadership team and looking ahead to key 2024 climate action priorities

December 12, 2023 – Today, Climate Mayors looked to the future as it ushered in its new leadership team and honed in on new pathways to supercharge climate action in 2024. With Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway of Madison concluding her term as Chair of the organization, Mayor Justin Bibb of Cleveland, Ohio will take over as Chair for the 2024 year. Having served as Vice-Chair in 2023, he will continue to build his climate legacy as a strong advocate for elevating local climate leadership. Mayor Kate Gallego of Phoenix, Arizona, who has held her Vice-Chair position since 2021, and new incoming Vice-Chair, Mayor Lauren McLean of Boise, Idaho will round out the Climate Mayors leadership team. Over the past year, cities have begun to feel the transformative impacts of federal investments like the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. 2024 will be another crucial year to further accelerate climate action, with no time left to waste in implementing ambitious plans to reduce emissions and build more climate-resilient communities across the country. These admirable leaders have served as models for city-led solutions to the climate crisis, and are positioned to continue their leadership with an acute focus on issues such as environmental justice, building and fleet electrification, and public health and safety over the next year.

The first millennial Mayor of Cleveland, Ohio, Mayor Justin Bibb has served as mayor since 2022. As Vice-Chair of Climate Mayors for the past year, Mayor Bibb has worked tirelessly to advance key policy initiatives that support cities and elevate local voices at the federal level. Mayor Bibb has emphasized the crucial role of local leadership 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, which continue to experience climate vulnerability as a result of historic disinvestment. As an elected leader devoted to advancing racial, social, and health equity in his hometown, Bibb has highlighted the importance of public-private collaboration and maintained strong ties to community-based organizations focused on achieving the change that Cleveland communities want and need to see in their city. With climate justice at the heart of his platform, Mayor Bibb works to represent and uplift the concerns of community members who have experienced adverse effects to health and wellbeing as a result of climate change. To ensure this remains of priority, he appointed Cleveland’s first Director of Sustainability and Climate Justice during his first year as mayor. Mayor Bibb has continued to prioritize environmental justice by advancing affordable solar energy for low and moderate-income families in the city, championing the15-minute city framework as an economic and climate justice policy that connects communities while decreasing transportation emissions and air pollutants, and mobilizing historic federal funding totake multi-level action in order to rapidly decarbonize the Greater Cleveland region. Mayor Bibb also passed an improved Complete and Green Streets Ordinance, which calls for a restructuring of Cleveland's roads to prioritize people over cars, and is working to reduce flooding and boost communities’ access to water and green spaces through new climate resilience proposals. As Chair of Climate Mayors, Mayor Bibb has highlighted three priorities for his one-year term: 

1. Increase the recognition of Climate Mayors at the national and international levels and showcasing city success stories

2. Build up funding infrastructure for the organization

3. Emphasize and empower regional engagement with peer mayors

4. Ensure federal funding benefits communities of color and those most vulnerable to climate change 

“I am honored to step into the role of Climate Mayors Chair and to continue to champion ambitious climate action for more just and sustainable cities,” said Mayor Bibb. “With this platform, I will work together with fellow Climate Mayors, the federal government, public and private institutions, and community-based organizations to leverage historic federal funding in a way that benefits communities across the country – particularly those that are most vulnerable to climate impacts due to historic injustices.”

Mayor Kate Gallego of Phoenix, Arizona has held office since 2019, serving as Vice-Chair of Climate Mayors since 2020 and Vice-Chair of C40 Cities since 2021. Continuing her role as Vice-Chair of Climate Mayors in 2024, Mayor Gallego emphasizes that climate action must be prioritized in local, state, and federal elections and that Climate Mayors must have a strong voice in advocating for a sustained commitment to the promises made in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).On the local level, Mayor Gallego aims to make Phoenix the most sustainable desert city on the planet – and that means tackling the dual challenge of heat and water. Phoenix was the first city in the country to take the American Forests’ Tree Equity Pledge in 2021, a commitment that all neighborhoods achieve a standard of shade cover by 2030. Under Gallego’s leadership, Phoenix established the first publicly funded Office of Heat Response and Mitigation in the nation to drive innovative strategies for a cooler, more comfortable city.  Additionally, new water conservation policies and regional working groups aim to build common ground among Western mayors and local officials to uplift conservation successes that demonstrate a shared commitment to reducing dependence on the strained Colorado River. Phoenix is instituting conservation measures at all scales – from Sustainable Desert Development policies that significantly reduce water use in new construction, to incentivizing residents to adopt native desert vegetation and efficient appliances. Going into her 3rd year as Vice-Chair of Climate Mayors, Mayor Gallego has identified three key priorities for 2024: 

1. Sustain commitments of Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and highlighting local implementation success stories

2. Continue to uplift and support the efforts of the Western Water Security regional working group

3. Expand meaningful engagement opportunities for Climate Mayors members

“Cities have long led on the forefront of climate change solutions – and with more federal funding flowing than ever, we’re taking our commitments to new heights,” said Mayor Gallego. “I am excited to continue my role as Vice-Chair of Climate Mayors to serve Phoenix and the nation at large, especially at such a pivotal time.  Together with Mayors Bibb and McLean, I am committed to leveraging the Climate Mayors network to advance people-first climate initiatives that meet the unique needs of our communities.”

In 2019, Lauren McLean became the first woman to be elected Mayor of Boise. In her time as mayor, she has proved her steadfast commitment to advancing localized climate solutions – believing strongly that mayors, local governments, and tribes know best what residents and communities need to be prepared for climate impacts now and in the future. Mayor McLean has seen the worsening climate impacts first hand in Boise. Last summer, the city experienced its second hottest summer, with nearly twice as many days over 100 degrees than 30 years ago. But under McLean’s leadership, the city has fought climate change ambitiously — especially through the city’s goal to be powered by 100% clean electricity for its government operations by 2030, which Boise is on track to meet five to six years early. In 2021, Mayor McLean joined The America the Beautiful initiative, a coalition of 70 mayors committed to conserving 30 percent of American lands by 2030. McLean has worked to build out Boise’s program to protect 30 percent of open space and parks – specifically with the plan to double the city’s tree canopy. And looking to future generations, mayor McLean launched the Youth Climate Action Council, which unites young people from across Boise to take action on climate issues with creative projects. As incoming Vice-Chair, Mayor McLean highlighted 2 key priorities for the 2024 year:

1. Ensure that crucial funds for climate action flow directly to cities, particularly for those in traditionally red states.

2. Cultivate new ways for Climate Mayors to connect and leverage expertise between member cities, and continue empowering cities to advance climate priorities.

“Climate Mayors is providing crucial guidance to city leaders across the country to access funds and pool resources and knowledge to advance meaningful climate solutions,” said Mayor McLean. “The role of local governments in creating a climate ready future for our kids and theirs cannot be understated, as we hear from our residents every day how important this work is to them. I am thrilled to join Mayors Bibb and Gallego on the leadership team and to continue this essential work for Boise and beyond.”

For media inquiries please contact climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Climate Mayors Announces New Chair, Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb

At a virtual convening today, Climate Mayors announced their new Chair to drive local climate action in 2024

December 12, 2023 – Today, Climate Mayors looked to the future as it ushered in its new leadership team and honed in on new pathways to supercharge climate action in 2024. With Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway of Madison concluding term as Chair of the organization, Mayor Justin Bibb of Cleveland, Ohio will take over as Chair for the 2024 year. Having served as Vice-Chair in 2023, he will continue to build his climate legacy as a strong advocate for elevating local climate leadership. Mayor Kate Gallego of Phoenix, Arizona, who has held her Vice-Chair position since 2021, and new incoming Vice-Chair, Mayor Lauren McLean of Boise, Idaho will round out the Climate Mayors leadership team. 

The first millennial Mayor of Cleveland, Ohio, Mayor Justin Bibb has served as mayor since 2022. As Vice-Chair of Climate Mayors for the past year, Mayor Bibb has worked tirelessly to advance key policy initiatives that support cities and elevate local voices at the federal level. Mayor Bibb has emphasized the crucial role of local leadership 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, which continue to experience climate vulnerability as a result of historic disinvestment. As an elected leader devoted to advancing racial, social, and health equity in his hometown, Bibb has highlighted the importance of public-private collaboration and maintained strong ties to community-based organizations focused on achieving the change that Cleveland communities want and need to see in their city. With climate justice at the heart of his platform, Mayor Bibb works to represent and uplift the concerns of community members who have experienced adverse effects to health and wellbeing as a result of climate change. To ensure this remains of priority, he appointed Cleveland’s first Director of Sustainability and Climate Justice during his first year as mayor. Mayor Bibb has continued to prioritize environmental justice by advancing affordable solar energy for low and moderate-income families in the city, championing the 15-minute city framework as an economic and climate justice policy that connects communities while decreasing transportation emissions and air pollutants, and mobilizing historic federal funding to take multi-level action in order to rapidly decarbonize the Greater Cleveland region. Mayor Bibb also passed an improved Complete and Green Streets Ordinance, which calls for a restructuring of Cleveland's roads to prioritize people over cars, and is working to reduce flooding and boost communities’ access to water and green spaces through new climate resilience proposals. Having such robust experience in implementing policies and projects, Mayor Bibb is sure to contribute to the momentum and scale of fellow Climate Mayors’ climate ambitions during his term.

As Chair of Climate Mayors, Mayor Bibb has highlighted three priorities for his one-year term: 

1. Increase the recognition of Climate Mayors at the national and international levels and showcasing city success stories

2. Build up funding infrastructure for the organization

3. Emphasize and empower regional engagement with peer mayors

4. Ensure federal funding benefits communities of color and those most vulnerable to climate change 

The Climate Mayors is proud to welcome the leadership and innovation of Mayor Bibb as the youngest Chair of our organization. As the world inches closer to reaching irreversible climate tipping points, we acknowledge that there is no time to waste. We must meet the moment and address the climate crisis with urgency and tact – that work continues today. 

I am honored to step into the role of Climate Mayors Chair and to continue to champion ambitious climate action for more just and sustainable cities,” said Mayor Bibb. “With this platform, I will work together with fellow Climate Mayors, the federal government, public and private institutions, and community-based organizations to leverage historic federal funding in a way that benefits communities across the country – particularly those that are most vulnerable to climate impacts due to historic injustices.”

“Cities have long led on the forefront of climate change solutions – and with more federal funding flowing than ever, we’re taking our commitments to new heights,” said Mayor Gallego. “I am excited to continue my role as Vice-Chair of Climate Mayors to serve Phoenix and the nation at large, especially at such a pivotal time.  Together with Mayors Bibb and McLean, I am committed to leveraging the Climate Mayors network to advance people-first climate initiatives that meet the unique needs of our communities.”

“Climate Mayors is providing crucial guidance to city leaders across the country to access funds and pool resources and knowledge to advance meaningful climate solutions,” said Mayor McLean. “The role of local governments in creating a climate ready future for our kids and theirs cannot be understated, as we hear from our residents every day how important this work is to them. I am thrilled to join Mayors Bibb and Gallego on the leadership team and to continue this essential work for Boise and beyond.”

For media inquiries please contact climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Climate Mayors, C40, and Urban Sustainability Directors Network Release New Paper Detailing How Partnership and Collaboration Can Maximize the Impact of Federal Climate Investments

Today, we’re excited to announce the release of the new Climate Mayors, C40, and Urban Sustainability Directors Network paper:

Maximizing the Impact of Federal Climate Investments: The Unique Role of Cities. City governments are uniquely positioned to drive progress on climate action because they are the most directly connected to residents, and are nimble enough to innovate and test solutions that can scale. This new paper details how cities are key to meeting climate targets and the additional support needed to optimize the unprecedented opportunity provided through federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act. There is a unique opportunity for local governments to collaborate on implementation, but there are considerable challenges to realizing the potential of BIL and IRA funding. However, other actors – the federal government, states and state agencies, the philanthropic community, and climate advocates – have the chance to take action to empower cities to unleash the full potential of federal funding. The paper was developed by C40 Cities, Climate Mayors, and the Urban Sustainability Directors Network as part of their partnership to support cities to access and implement funding made available through the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in order to advance ambitious climate action. Together, we will ensure that cities are ready to meet the moment.Read the paper in its entirety HERE.

Statement: Climate Mayors Celebrates the One-Year Anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act and Looks Ahead to Elevated Climate Action in Cities Across America

One year ago today, President Biden signed the historic Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) into law delivering billions of dollars in grants, incentives, and tax breaks to help make cities more sustainable and equitable. We’re celebrating this year of climate progress by highlighting the hundreds of millions of dollars already won by member cities since the passage of the IRA as well as from other climate investments included in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and (BIL) and American Rescue Plan (ARPA). These historic investments in climate action will increase energy security through clean power generation, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower energy costs for families, and support inclusive career training programs and new green jobs that will help workers put food on the table and care for their families. With more federal funding available than ever, Climate Mayors is excited by the promise of accelerated climate progress in cities across America and ready to get to work on implementing these ambitious programs. Together, with local leaders lighting the path forward, the future of public health, safety, and sustainability is bright. We know that cities are uniquely positioned and skilled to deliver the benefits of the IRA, and we’re excited to support them along the way.

“Today we celebrate the Inflation Reduction Act and President Biden's commitment to advancing climate action. For a decade Climate Mayors have been leading the way on climate ambition. Now, fueled by federal investments, cities are turbocharging their climate initiatives and catalyzing collective progress towards meeting U.S. climate goals. As an organization we are supporting mayors in meeting this unprecedented moment and delivering on the promise of a more equitable and sustainable future. ” – Kate Wright, Climate Mayors’ Executive Director

“The Inflation Reduction Act is helping to take climate action in Madison to new heights. Our community will be benefiting from cleaner electric vehicles and renewable energy, and both homeowners and renters will see expanded access to home energy efficiency and the utility bill savings that it generates. All while helping grow the green workforce in Wisconsin. The IRA makes impactful climate solutions accessible. We’re pleased to recognize the one year anniversary of this historic legislation and look ahead to the many successes to come.” – Mayor Rhodes-Conway of Madison, Climate Mayors Chair

 “Phoenix is addressing the impacts of climate change head on, from advancing heat mitigation strategies to pioneering new solutions to protect our water resources. This milestone investment will help us raise the bar like never before. Known as the “electric valley” and for our spirit of innovation, we’re embracing the opportunities provided by this federal support to modernize our infrastructure and capitalize on job creation potential. The issues faced by communities across the country demand alignment from all levels of government, and the Inflation Reduction Act provides Phoenix with renewed ability to meet the moment with urgency and creativity.” – Mayor Gallego of Phoenix, Climate Mayors Vice-Chair

“Cities cannot fight climate change alone. Green transportation-oriented development through the use of bike lanes and ramping up neighborhood accessibility to public transit are among the goals we intend to achieve thanks to the funding released through the Inflation Reduction Act. Further, we’re implementing solar power on the roofs of low-income housing to make energy both accessible and affordable. We celebrate the one year anniversary of the IRA and look forward to continuing to harness its potential in order to uplift communities and empower them to take full advantage of the sustainable provisions and incentives on the table for them.” – Mayor Bibb of Cleveland, Climate Mayors Vice-Chair

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, the Climate Mayors coalition reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, please visit our website and follow climate mayors on X and LinkedIn.

For media inquiries please contact climatemayors@fgsglobal.com.

Mayoral Terms End, but Climate Legacies Live on Forever: Recognizing Mayor Michael. B Hancock

Mayor Michael B. Hancock of Denver began his term in 2011 and will close this chapter in July of 2023. During this time he also served on the Climate Mayors steering committee in 2019. This leadership has set the stage for continued climate innovation in Denver now and in the future.

“As my time as Mayor of Denver comes to a close, I reflect with gratitude on the great opportunity to serve this incredible city and its people. It's been an honor to work alongside fellow Climate Mayors to drive our collective mission of decarbonizing cities, strengthening environmental justice, and supporting the green transition. The best of Denver's story is yet to be written, and I am excited to witness its next chapter as a proud resident and advocate for our beloved city." - Former Mayor Michael B. Hancock

Mayor Hancock’s legacy often focused on making sustainability accessible to individuals within the community. The successes below showcase how sustainable living and policy making was woven into the fabric of a diversity of communities throughout his term. 

• Announced the 2021 Climate Protection Fund, which allocated $57 million to climate investments 

• Allocated rebates for energy efficient heating and cooling, covering up to 100% of the cost for low income households

• Allocated funding for neighborhoods and small businesses to go green 

• Oversaw the Energize Denver building performance ordinance, which has been hailed as the nation’s gold standard to drastically cut buildings’ reliance on fossil fuels

• As of June 2023, the Climate Protection Fund (CPF) fund has committed $172 million in climate investments, and 60% of that directly benefits Denver’s most climate-vulnerable people and communities

• Committed $18 million in community solar, with 30 percent of the power generated allocated to pay bills for Denver Public Schools families with lower incomes 

• From 2008 to 2021, Denver reduced its GHG emissions by more than 30%

• Doubled spending on climate across all agencies from 2021 to 2023 (in 2023’s budget, over $150M was dedicated to climate action)

• 833 households have installed or reserved a heat pump through Climate Action Rebates

• 159 Certifiably Green Denver businesses

• Over 100 people enrolled in green workforce training programs

• $300k given out in 2022 to 37 minority and/or women-owned small businesses to fund sustainability projects

• Enacted an ordinance that requires all buildings of 25,000 or more square feet to record their energy usage and report publicly in a format that allows for comparison of energy performanceamong such buildings

The Climate Mayors organization thanks Mayor Hancock for his commitment to leading in Denver and creating a model for mayors across the U.S. “We are deeply appreciative of Mayor Hancock’s advocacy for the health and prosperity of all Denver communities. From home electrification rebates to critical investments in solar power, Climate Mayors thanks Mayor Hancock for his inspirational leadership,” said Kate Wright, Climate Mayors’ Executive Director. The former Mayor put people first by prioritizing policy transformation and concrete funding support to ensure residents had equitable access to a more sustainable lifestyle. The ripple effect from the efforts in clean energy, transportation electrification, and green business will be felt for generations to come.

For media inquiries please contact climatemayors@fgsglobal.com.

Statement from Climate Mayors Supporting New White House Guidance on Direct Pay for Tax Credits in the Historic Inflation Reduction Act

June 14, 2023 – Today, President Biden released initial guidance on direct pay for tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act. The historic bill includes billions of dollars in provisions that help address the climate crisis and move the country towards a clean energy economy. Direct pay is a critical mechanism for tax exempt entities like non profit organizations, state, local and Tribal governments, public utilities, and rural electric cooperatives to gain access to clean energy tax credits for the first time. With transformative incentives such as tax credits now being made available through the bill, Climate Mayors is keen on ensuring cities have access to as much support as possible to continue decarbonizing, electrifying and adapting in the face of climate change. Our member cities are thrilled to receive this guidance as they have ambitious plans for using the credits to support various programs and projects to lower energy costs for consumers, advance renewable energy deployment, and advance environmental justice. From electric vehicle charging infrastructure to solar power to widespread building electrification, these funds will be highly transformative for the speed and efficacy of the green transition at large. With this support and guidance from the White House, clean energy financing can be transformed and accelerated for cities across the country. Our Mayors aim to use direct pay to take climate action plans further and faster than ever. Climate Mayors thanks the Biden administration for providing useful guidance on direct pay for Inflation Reduction Act tax credits and continuing to factor in public and stakeholder needs when creating guidance. This attention to accessibility ensures that cities and municipalities will be able to utilize and amplify investments to their fullest potential. Together, we will raise the bar on clean energy advancement across the nation.

“Once again, the Biden Administration has reinforced its commitment to meeting our nation’s climate goals,” said Madison Mayor and Climate Mayors Chair, Satya Rhodes-Conway.

“With this new guidance, Climate Mayors members are prepared to meet the moment and deliver a greener, cleaner future. In Madison and across the country, local leaders are switching to renewable energy, investing in clean transportation, and creating good, green jobs in the process. We are grateful to the administration for its continued support in ensuring that cities can take full advantage of this historic climate funding.” “The guidance shared today from the White House demonstrates that the Biden Administration continues to deliver to meet local needs,” said Phoenix Mayor and Climate Mayors Vice-Chair, Kate Gallego.

“It is imperative for governments to incentivize the clean energy transition to ensure climate targets are met, and this administration has prioritized accessibility to maximize impact.” “The Biden Administration and Inflation Reduction Act continue to break down barriers for local leaders to implement critical climate forward infrastructure,” said Cleveland Mayor and Climate Mayors Vice-Chair, Justin Bibb.

“The direct pay guidance further uplifts Cleveland's – and the nation’s – efforts in growing our clean energy economy by opening the doors to folks previously under the radar. A true good faith investment in equitable access across the board.” “The guidance and support provided by the Biden Administration today is a crucial step in our continued progress toward a clean-powered, resilient future for Americans,” said Houston Mayor and Climate Mayors Chair Emeritus, Sylvester Turner. “Through direct pay, local leaders can supercharge clean energy projects in our communities to make impactful strides toward climate and clean energy goals.”

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, the Climate Mayors coalition reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, please visit our website and follow climate mayors on Twitter and LinkedIn.

For media inquiries please contact climatemayors@fgsglobal.com.  

Infrastructure Week - Climate Mayors Special Report

Mayors have long been leading the charge on climate and at last, we have necessary support from the federal government to be even more ambitious with our local climate action. This is a historic moment for climate action in cities – we have the chance to go beyond our current emissions reduction targets. Climate Mayors across the country are meeting the moment and advancing sustainable infrastructure projects to help their cities adapt to the challenges of climate change. As Accelerator for America celebrates Infrastructure Week to highlight the benefits of, and ongoing need for increased investment in pipes, ports, roads, rails, and other infrastructure, Climate Mayors is recognizing how sustainable infrastructure projects can bolster resilience to extreme weather and climate change, boost clean energy jobs, strengthen and modernize our electric grid, and advance environmental justice:

Mayor LaToya Cantrell, New Orleans, LA - Resilience

Mayor LaToya Cantrell and The City of New Orleans secured funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for Bayou Bienvenue Central Wetlands project in the Lower 9th Ward. The Bayou Bienvenue Wetlands and surrounding communities suffered significant devastation by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. These funds will help the city get through significant public outreach and planning to restore and create natural buffers to help reduce the impacts of storms, rising sea levels, and other extreme weather events made worse by climate change. The Bipartisan Infrastructure law made $10 million in funding available for habitat restoration and resilience awards for underserved communities through National Coastal Habitat Restoration and Resilience Grants. 

Mayor Justin Bibb, Cleveland, OH - Workforce Development

Mayor Justin Bibb is using funding from the American Rescue Plan Act to help the City of Cleveland to invest in critical workforce development infrastructure that will provide the backbone for maximizing the benefits of federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS Act and Inflation Reduction Act. The workforce development programs will bolster the pipeline of workers ready to build out the city’s green infrastructure, remediate brownfields, and deliver a clean energy economy.The Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act provided billions of direct and flexible aid to America’s cities to support pandemic relief and spur economic recovery. 

Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway, Madison, WI - Public Transit

Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway and Madison, WI, are taking advantage of federal dollars, including funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, to purchase 46 electric buses for the bus rapid transit program set to transform public transit in the city. The new all-electric rapid transit system will reduce travel times, better connect major employers and key parts of the city, increase mobility options, reduce pollution, and put the city on track to meet its climate goals. President Biden is right, “It’s a big deal”.The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law includes $5.6 billion in funding to support the replacement of transit vehicles with low- and no-emission vehicles through the Low or No- Emission Bus Grants.

Mayor Kate Gallego, Phoenix, AZ - Water Security

Federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help the City of Phoenix build an advanced water recycling system, providing a crucial boost to the city’s drinking water supply. As the West sufferers from a historic drought fueled by climate change, Mayor Kate Gallego is taking advantage of federal funds to invest in infrastructure that will ensure access to the region’s most vital resource in the years to come.The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides $8.3 billion in Reclamation water infrastructure in the 17 Western States across nearly 20 programs to boost water security in the region.

Mayor Andre Dickens, Atlanta, GA - Environmental Justice

Mayor Dickens is using federal funding to re-connect neighborhoods and build a sense of community. The Stitch, an infrastructure project in Downtown Atlanta aiming to reconnect divided communities and restore environmental justice, received federal funding from the Reconnecting Communities program of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The project will create a 14-acre green space park, provide affordable housing and transportation, and right historic wrongs over Interstate 75/85 intersection that deliberately divided a historically black community in the 1950s. Bipartisan Infrastructure Law included historic funding to help reconnect communities through the Reconnecting Cities Pilot Program with a focus on prioritizing environmental justice communities.

Mayor Tim Keller, Albuquerque, NM - Green Space and Economic Development

Nearly $11.5 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is being used to transform Albuquerque’s defunct downtown rail line into a green pedestrian parkway that will reinvigorate the local economy and promote community connectivity. The Rail Trail envisions sustainable infrastructure that manages stormwater, features native plant species, and offers shade for visitors all while promoting economic development. Mayor Tim Keller is demonstrating how sustainability and economic development can go hand in hand.RAISE Discretionary Grant Program helps communities build transportation projects that have significant local or regional impact and improve safety and equity. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law included a $7.5 billion boost to RAISE grant programs.

Three Climate Mayors Reach the End of their Terms and Leave Behind Climate Legacies

Three members of the Climate Mayors’ Steering Committee will soon conclude their terms as city mayors. Yet, their leadership in climate action leaves behind unforgettable legacies.

Several leaders of Climate Mayors will be concluding their terms as mayors and stepping down from their positions within the steering committee. Mayors Eric Garcetti of Los Angeles, Steve Adler of Austin, and Greg Fischer of Louisville have dutifully served their communities as champions for local climate action and progressive policy making. With Climate Mayors’ own co-founder Mayor Garcetti, and others leaving office it seemed timely to take a look back on all the considerable impacts these mayors have made on our climate and their local communities.

Mayor Eric Garcetti has held office since 2013 and in the following year he co-founded Climate Mayors alongside former Mayor Nutter of Philadelphia and former Mayor Parker of Houston. Since then, the bipartisan organization founded to build political will for federal and global climate action has welcomed almost 500 mayors into its fold. In addition to being Chair of Climate Mayors from 2014-2020, he also served as Chair of C40 Cities – a global city-led organization in the fight against climate change – from 2019-2021. In addition to his national leadership in building political momentum for climate action, Mayor Garcetti holds an impressive track record for environmental wins in LA. Below is just a sampling of the positive change created during his term:

• Launched Los Angeles’ Green New Deal, an ambitious update to​ the city’s first-ever Sustainable City Plan from 2015. It aims to secure clean air and water and a stable climate, improve community resilience, expand access to healthy food and open space, and promote justice for all

• Establishedfirst in the nation Climate Emergency Mobilization Office (CEMO) to foster collaboration with policymakers and community leaders to create opportunities to improve sustainability and resilience at L.A.’s most burdened communities.

• As of 2018, LA had the most solar power installed out of any city in the US and was named the #1 Solar City in America in 8 of the last 9 years

• LA became the first city in the U.S. to launch an electric car share program designed to serve low-income residents in 2017

• Invested $150 million into two LADWP programs targeting low-income multifamily energy efficiency and building electrification, including free upgrades for renters

• Installed the most publicly available and commercial electric vehicle chargers of any city in the nation

• As of 2020, LA’s GHG emissions are down 36%. In 2016 alone, L.A. reduced its city-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 11%, equivalent to taking 737,000 cars off the road

• Created over 60,000 green jobs

• Attracted $695 million in green investments and supported 340 startups as of June, 2022 through the LA Cleantech Incubator

"In the year 2100, when the human race looks back at the challenges this century brought us, I know they will be grateful for everything Mayor Garcetti and the City Council accomplished in this past decade on climate, and for everything we are going to accomplish next." – Los Angeles City Councilmember Paul Koretz."We appreciate the leadership and partnership of the Mayor's Office in championing innovative and equitable solutions to the health, climate, and environmental justice threats our communities face. The establishment of the first-in-the-nation Climate Emergency Mobilization Office is a lasting legacy that will center frontline, indigenous and vulnerable communities in policy design, and will ensure that the benefits of a just transition will be shared by all."– Martha Dina Argüello, Executive Director Physicians for Social Responsibility - Los Angeles

Mayor Steve Adler has held office in Austin since 2015 and will term out of office in January 2023. On the national stage, Mayor Adler has served on the Climate Mayors steering committee since 2019 and has been a member of C40 Cities since 2006. Climate leadership on this stage – from a Texas mayor – exemplified how climate progress can even take shape in states historically tied with fossil fuel production and consumption.During his time in office, Mayor Adler has been a progressive force for climate action in the red state of Texas. Below are some examples of transformative work at the local level:

• Project Connect is a new light rail and bus network designed to connect neighborhoods around Austin. It aims to improve access to daily needs like jobs, healthcare, and education. By reducing people’s reliance on cars, the project also aims to play a role in tackling Austin’s carbon footprint and helping the City of Austin reach its goal of net-zero emissions by 2040

• A 400-mile All Ages and Abilities Bicycle Network is being built throughout the city to help Austin achieve its mode-shift goals. Late last year, 215 miles — over 50% — of the network had been completed.

• In 2021, the revised and updated Austin Climate Equity Plan was adopted by Council. Austin’s original climate plan was adopted by the City Council in 2015, with the goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and the intention of updating the plan every 5 years. The revised plan accelerates Austin’s goal to become a Net Zero city by ten years – from 2040 to 2050.

• Created new green jobs with an equity lens through theAustin Civilian Conservation Corps

• The Community Climate AmbassadorsProgram recruits individuals to host community conversations and lead projects with historically underrepresented groups about climate change, racial equity, and sustainability

• The Austin Youth Climate EquityCouncil empowers Austin’s next generation of climate champions with the tools to engage in community issues around climate change, environmental policy, and environmental justice

• Awarded 493Bright Green Future Grants to Austin area schools for sustainability-focused projects and education. 70% of all Title 1 schools in Austin have received funding, which includes schools with higher numbers of students from low-income families

• Adopted the 2021Residential International Energy Code which, will save energy and GHG emissions, and remove mandatory natural gas hookups for residential homes

“The most important lesson learned here is that we will never come close to overcoming climate change without centering racial equity and community leadership.” Shane Johnson, Sierra Club, Austin Office of Sustainability Steering Committee Tri-Chair“It is not the power of one but the power of many perspectives, communities, and knowledge to shift the direction of climate impacts.” – Shaun Auckland, SPEER , Austin Office of Sustainability Advisory Group Member

Mayor Greg Fischer has held office in Louisville, Kentucky for over a decade, beginning in 2011 and closing out in January of 2023. Fischer has been active on the national and global level as a champion for climate action through service on the Climate Mayors steering committee and participation in Global Covenant of Mayors. Mayor Fischer also signed the We're Still In letter, committing Louisville to pursue the requirements outlined in the Paris Climate Agreement, regardless of national leadership decisions. His keen awareness of the ramifications that city emissions have on the national and global environment turbocharged actions taken at the local level.During his terms, clean energy and resilience were top of mind as showcased in the achievements here:

• Mayor Greg Fischer created the Office of Sustainability in 2012 and tasked the office with drafting the city’s first-ever sustainability plan, Sustain Louisville

• Adoption of the original Sustain Louisville Plan in March 2013

• In 2022, Mayor Fischer signed an executive order committing Louisville to the science-based target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions community-wide by 2040. The order was an update to prior set goals of 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions community-wide by 2050, and helps Louisville meet its commitment under the Cities Race to Zero.Following this Executive Order, Louisville Metro Council passed a resolution reaffirming the same goal, building on a previous resolution for100% renewable electricity for Metro operations by 2030, 100% clean energy for Metro operations by 2035, and 100% clean energy community-wide by 2040

• Since 2016, Louisville Metro has leveraged over $15 million in private capital toward energy efficiency and renewable energy projects through its Energy Project Assessment District (EPAD) Program, a financing mechanism that allows non-residential property owners to repay private loans for energy improvement projects.

• In September 2019, Mayor Fischer declared a Climate Emergency at a youth-led climate strike to recognize the urgency to halt, reverse, mitigate, and prepare for the consequences of climate change and restore the climate for future generations. Hundreds of Louisville students, parents, concerned citizens, and politicians joined cities around the world in a day of global protest to demand action on climate change.

• On April 4, 2022, Louisville Metro was accepted into the U.S. Department of Energy’s Communities Local Energy Action Program (LEAP) pilot which provides technical assistance to cities to develop sustainability programs that benefit environmental justice communities. 

• The Solar Over Louisville campaign was launched in June 2022. The plan encourages residents to install solar panels and simplifies the process of doing so

• Louisville received the distinction of being one of less than 100 cities around the world to make CDP’s annual A List in 2021 and 2022. The global environmental nonprofit’s list recognizes major progress in climate action and transparency.

“As Louisville Metro Government’s leading Community Partner in the sustainability space, the Louisville Sustainability Council is honored to have had the opportunity to work so closely with Mayor Fischer over the years. Mayor Fischer has greatly contributed to helping our city dream and achieve significant sustainability milestones. We will deeply miss Mayor Fischer’s energy, passion, and support for climate mitigation and education.” – Julia Murray, Executive Director, Louisville Sustainability CouncilThe Climate Mayors organization thanks Mayors Garcetti, Adler, and Fischer for their commitment to maintaining focus on one of the most pressing issues of our lives. They  challenged the organization and their cities to reach new heights in promoting climate justice, equity and sustainability for all.

“It has been an honor to work alongside these mayors. Their dedication to climate resilience, emissions reduction, environmental justice, and community prosperity has produced positive impacts that will be felt for generations to come,” said Kate Wright, Climate Mayors’ Executive Director. “Their climate leadership will serve as a guiding light to their successors and we aim to continue to make bold and inspired climate action in Los Angeles, Austin, and Louisville going forward.”

For media inquiries please contact climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Climate Mayors Celebrates Mayor Sylvester Turner's Successful Leadership As Chair

As mayor of the nation’s fourth-largest city and a strong advocate for climate action, Mayor Sylvester Turner ends his term as Chair of Climate Mayors with several significant accomplishments that helped to elevate the discussion on climate.

As mayor of the nation’s fourth-largest city and a strong advocate for climate action, Mayor Sylvester Turner ends his term as Chair of Climate Mayors with several significant accomplishments that helped to elevate the discussion on climate. Since he was first elected mayor of Houston, Texas, in December 2015, Mayor Turner has focused on key initiatives to advance climate priorities in his city and to support the work of the Biden – Harris Administration. As Chair of Climate Mayors, Mayor Turner has led the organization through a year of remarkable progress at the federal level that built on the years of leadership at the local level to develop a clean energy economy. As the job of implementing federal climate policy turns to mayors and governors, Climate Mayors is grateful to have Mayor Turner continue to help lead the organization as he transitions to Chairman Emeritus. In addition to being Chair of Climate Mayors, Mayor Turner is a member of the Environmental Protection Agency’s Local Government Advisory Committee, Board Chairman of the Resilient Cities Network, and a member of C40 Cities.

“It’s been an honor to serve as Chair of Climate Mayors. Communities in Houston have been hit hard by extreme weather, and it has been mission critical to do our part in stopping and adapting to the climate crisis. We’ve been able to drive progress by making strategic investments in climate resilience, electrification of the transportation sector and renewable energy,” said Mayor Turner. “I know Climate Mayors will continue to be a leading force in facing the climate crisis and championing the health and prosperity of U.S. cities. ”

As Mayor of Houston, Mayor Turner made the city more resilient, sustainable, and equitable over his two terms. Launched in 2020, the Resilient Houston strategy and Houston’s Climate Action Plan identify specific actions to rise above challenges, emphasizing the most vulnerable populations. Since then, Turner’s efforts have created new programs, projects, and policies that help Houston prepare, adapt, and recover from shocks and stresses like the COVID-19 pandemic, extreme weather, and systemic inequities. Mayor Turner undoubtedly positioned Houston as a leader in resilience and demonstrated the city’s commitment to build forward and build better, even in the face of economic and climate challenges.Highlights of his climate leadership:

• Launched Resilient Houston in February 2020 to provide a framework to protect Houston against future disasters – from hurricanes to extreme heat waves – and chronic stresses such as aging infrastructure, poor air quality, and flooding. Resilient Houston set 18 high-level targets, corresponding with the strategy’s 18 goals that will be used to measure the progress and impact of the city’s resilience work from now to 2050. Turner’s leadership helped the city deliver 3 of the 18 targets over the last 2 years and set the city up to continue making progress toward the goals.

• Released Houston’s first Climate Action Plan in April of 2020 to meet the Paris Agreement goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, improve air quality, build climate resilience, and leverage Houston’s role as a leader of the global energy transition. In just two years, Turner led the city to complete 3 of the Climate Action Plan’s 12 targets and created a path to achieve all the targets in the years to come.

• Negotiated a new retail electricity contract. As of July 2020, all of Houston’s municipal buildings are 100% powered by renewables, and the City purchases more renewables than any other city in the country.

• Led the establishment and passage of a historic decarbonization policy for Houston’s buildings, recognizing that buildings in Houston are responsible for 40% of both municipal and city-wide emissions. By implementing the decarbonization policy, Houston is estimated to prevent over 40% of the City’s direct and indirect emissions by 2030 and produce unprecedented energy savings for building owners and occupants.

• Released the “Living with Water” strategy in 2020, invested over 780 million in drainage infrastructure – with a focus on Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) – to adapt Houston to a changing climate, and created the GSI Tax Abatement program to encourage the implementation of green stormwater infrastructure in private development.

• Created the Complete Communities initiative to revitalize and improve Houston’s most under-served neighborhoods by partnering with local stakeholders to leverage resources to create a more equitable and prosperous city for all Houstonians.

• Worked with the City Council to purchase nearly 100 battery electric vehicles to replace the City of Houston’s current aging fleet of internal-combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, furthering progress towards a goal of the Houston Climate Action Plan to convert all non-emergency, light-duty municipal vehicles to electric by 2030.

• Developed the Sunnyside Landfill Solar Project as a shining example of collaboration with the energy industry and community residents. The project will transform a 240-acre former landfill that has sat dormant for more than 50 years into the largest urban solar farm in the U.S. The project addresses long-standing environmental justice challenges and revitalizes a historically underserved and under-resourced community as part of the energy transition, generating clean energy, and creating jobs and training opportunities in one of the fastest growing job markets today.

• Founded the nonprofit Evolve Houston and partnered with it to establish an all-new Equity Program. As part of this program, the eMobility Microgrant Initiative awards microgrants to local electromobility projects that address community mobility needs and e-mobility access in the Greater Houston area.

• Led by example and inspired Houston’s business community to join in the ambition to lead the global energy transition, fostering public-private partnerships, promoting energy innovation and attracting CleanTech incubators such as GreenTown Labs, and working with the private sector to scale up clean hydrogen and carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) developments.

• In 2021, Mayor Turner traveled to Scotland, United Kingdom for the United Nations’ Climate Change Conference, or COP 26. He joined world leaders and mayors from across the world,  met with National Climate Advisor Gina McCarthy, and attended the Climate Breakfast with Mayors featuring Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry.

For media inquiries please contact climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Climate Mayors Announces New Chair, Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway

At a virtual convening today, Climate Mayors announced new leadership to drive ambitious climate solutions at the local scale

December 14, 2022 — Today, at a virtual convening of the organization’s leadership and press, Climate Mayors announced that Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway will become the next Chair of the network of nearly 500 U.S. mayors across the country committed to climate leadership in their cities. In this role, Mayor Rhodes-Conway will help catalyze urgent action at the local scale to promote climate solutions, set an example of action for leaders at all levels of government, and support greener, safer and more resilient cities across the country. Also announced at the event were the incoming Vice-Chairs: Kate Gallego, Phoenix, AZ; and Justin Bibb, Cleveland, OH.

The 58th Mayor of Madison, Satya Rhodes-Conway was elected in 2019 as the city’s second female mayor and the first out LGBTQ person to serve as Mayor of Madison. In her time as Mayor, Rhodes-Conway has prioritized affordable housing, transportation, climate change and racial equity. She brings to the organization extensive experience in local policy, having worked with mayors across the country for over a decade and served three terms on the Madison Common Council. Under her leadership, Madison has invested in renewable energy consistent with goals for city facilities to be powered by 100% renewable energy by 2030. In addition, the city has invested in a $160 million all-electric bus rapid transit system that will improve mobility, lower transit emissions, take thousands of cars off the streets, and encourage sustainability in both new and existing affordable housing operations to lower bills for residents. The city is also working to rapidly transition streetlights to LED lights, retrofit affordable housing for efficiency and health, and build green infrastructure for stormwater management. On earth day in 2021, Mayor Rhodes Conway announced Climate Forward  – a plan to advance climate action in Madison, rapidly reduce emissions, make the city more resilient, and improve peoples’ lives. 

“I’m honored to serve as Climate Mayors chair at this critical time for climate action in cities,” said Mayor Rhodes-Conway. “Cities have long been our climate leaders, and during my time as Climate Mayors chair, I am eager to work with other Mayors, the federal government, and numerous partners to help ensure that the unprecedented federal investments in climate solutions reach U.S. cities and their residents.”

Mayor Rhodes Conway succeeds Mayor Sylvester Turner, who has been a long-standing climate champion for the City of Houston. In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, Mayor Turner launched Resilient Houston, worked at transitioning the Energy Capital of the World to a clean energy future, and increased the resilience of communities across the city by prioritizing health, job creation, equity, and sustainability. Turner also spearheaded the Houston Climate Action Plan — a science-based, community-driven strategy to make Houston’s transportation networks, building operations, and waste systems as clean and efficient as possible. Under Mayor Turner’s leadership, the City of Houston has committed to purchasing 100% renewable energy and is the largest municipal user of renewable energy in the nation. As incoming Vice-Chairs of the organization, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego and Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb will continue driving city-led climate action to create more sustainable, equitable, and healthy cities for all. Mayor Bibb has a keen focus on environmental justice and equitable access, while Mayor Gallego often takes aim at extreme heat and resilience in their respective cities. Under their leadership, Climate Mayors will continue to catalyze membership and deeply engage cities, while holding the frontline for climate action in the U.S.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to work alongside Mayors Bibb and Rhodes-Conway toward our shared mission at Climate Mayors,” said Mayor Gallego. “Our leadership team will continue to put people first in the fight against climate change. Challenging ourselves and our cities to meet the unique needs of our local communities while driving progress forward in clean energy, adaptation and sustainable innovation.”

“I’m honored to serve amongst seasoned Climate Mayors Gallego and Rhodes-Conway as Vice-chair. Supporting the conditions for climate justice to thrive in Cleveland and in cities across America is a critical step toward creating an equitable tomorrow for all”, said Mayor Justin Bibb.

Read more about the leadership team here. 

About Climate Mayors Representing over 74 million Americans from 48 states, Climate Mayors is a peer-to-peer network of nearly 500 U.S. city mayors who have committed to fighting climate change. Originally founded in 2014 by 3 mayors, the network’s ranks swelled to almost 400 mayors in response to the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement in June 2017. Climate Mayors is committed to accelerating equitable climate action to help each member city achieve their climate goals, while working together city-to-city, with states, and the Biden administration to increase national climate ambition. For more information, please visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on Twitter and LinkedIn.

For media inquiries please contact CLIMATEMAYORS@FGSGLOBAL.COM

Climate Mayors Announces New Policy Director to Help City Leaders Navigate Climate Legislation

Meghan Pazik joins Climate Mayors as the new Policy Director to help lead member cities into thoughtful policy creation and program implementation.

November 16, 2022 — Today, Climate Mayors, a network of over 500 U.S. mayors across the country committed to climate leadership and progress in their cities, announced the appointment of Meghan Pazik as its new Policy Director.Pazik joins Climate Mayors after working on Capitol Hill, most recently as a Legislative Assistant for the Office of Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26). Here, Pazik led several climate initiatives, including assisting the Congresswoman on her work with the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis and Natural Resources Committee. Prior to her work with Congresswoman Brownley, Pazik was a Legislative Assistant for the Office of Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06), where she worked across energy and environment programs to pass pertinent climate legislation. Meghan holds an MS in Energy and Climate Policy from John Hopkins University. From Loyola University, Meghan earned a BA in Environmental Studies and BA in Communications.“I am excited to be working with a dedicated network of mayors and diverse stakeholders on climate action,” said Pazik. “Local leaders are at the center of combating the climate crisis. I am proud to help communities across the country implement the largest federal climate investments in history.”

About Climate Mayors: Representing over 74 million Americans from 48 states, Climate Mayors is a peer-to-peer network of over 500 U.S. city mayors who have committed to fighting climate change. Originally founded in 2014 by 3 mayors, the network’s ranks swelled to almost 400 mayors in response to the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement in June 2017. Climate Mayors is committed to accelerating equitable climate action to help each member city achieve their climate goals, while working together city-to-city, with states, and the Biden administration to increase national climate ambition. For more information, please visit www.ClimateMayors.org and follow Climate Mayors on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Media Contact: ClimateMayors@fgsglobal.com

Climate Mayors Announces New Membership & Communication Manager to Support Communication Around City-Led Climate Initiatives

Rachel Paris Joins Climate Mayors as Membership & Communication Manager to provide research and communications insight to empower city-level climate action.

October 13, 2022 — Today, Climate Mayors, the network of more than 500 U.S. mayors across the country committed to climate leadership and progress in their cities, announced the appointment of Rachel Paris as its new Membership & Communication Manager. Paris joins Climate Mayors from Climate Action Campaign (CAC), where she spearheaded communications projects to support grassroots climate action initiatives. Prior to her position at CAC, Rachel held several research and strategic communications roles across the federal policy and advocacy space at American Bridge 21st Century (AB21). Rachel holds a Bachelor of Science in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from Yale University. “After several years of advocacy work at the federal level, I am so excited for the opportunity to work with our Climate Mayors to show we can govern with the urgency the climate crisis requires, '' said Paris. “I'm especially thrilled to work with local leaders, as cities will play a critical role in delivering the full potential of the recently passed climate and infrastructure bills.”

About Climate Mayors Representing over 74 million Americans from 48 states, Climate Mayors is a peer-to-peer network of over 500 U.S. city mayors who have committed to fighting climate change. Originally founded in 2014 by 3 mayors, the network’s ranks swelled to almost 400 mayors in response to the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement in June 2017. Climate Mayors is committed to accelerating equitable climate action to help each member city achieve their climate goals, while working together city-to-city, with states, and the Biden administration to increase national climate ambition. For more information, please visit HTTPS://CLIMATEMAYORS.ORG/ and follow Climate Mayors on TWITTER and LINKEDIN.

Media Contact: CLIMATEMAYORS@FGSGLOBAL.COM   

Climate Mayors Statement on the Inflation Reduction Act Celebration Ceremony

After Climate Mayors gathered at the White House to celebrate the signing of the Inflation Reduction Act, Climate Mayors Chair Sylvester Turner and Co-Chair Kate Gallego issued the following statement: “It was great to hear from fellow mayors, President Biden, Vice President Harris and others how the Inflation Reduction Act can help us achieve our climate targets and become a model for cities around the country,” said Mayor of Houston, TX and Climate Mayors Chair Sylvester Turner “Climate Mayors and respective cities alike face unique challenges presented by the climate crisis. At last we have the federal resources to confront these threats head on and shape a sustainable, safe and equitable future for our communities.” Phoenix Mayor and Climate Mayors Co-Chair Kate Gallego adds, “cities have been on the frontlines of the climate crisis for decades, so the passage of this historic legislation could not have come soon enough. Climate Mayors thanks President Biden and Senator Schumer for bringing this bill to pass, and we look forward to the bright future of climate solutions, lower energy bills, and job creation to come. As the celebration concludes, the work starts now.”

Climate Mayors Statement on the Passage of the Inflation Reduction Act

In response to the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 Climate Mayors Chair and Mayor of Houston Sylvester Turner issued the following statement:  

“The Inflation Reduction Act is the biggest investment by Congress to address and accelerate climate action in U.S history, and a massive victory for cities and towns around the country. At last, local leaders will be granted the influx of tools and resources needed to combat the climate crisis, create jobs, and address environmental injustice in our communities. Mayors have long been at the frontlines of the climate crisis, doing what we can to move our communities and country closer to the Paris Agreement goals. This bill will be an incredible boost to those efforts. The funding outlined in this bill will allow cities around the country to bolster their clean energy capacity, restore manufacturing jobs, lower energy costs, and address pollution in marginalized communities. This legislation comes not a moment too soon as our cities grapple with extreme heat and an impending hurricane season that grows more devastating with each passing year. Thank you to President Biden, Senator Schumer, and leaders in the Senate and House for working tirelessly to get this bill across the finish line. There’s more to do, but help is finally on the way, and we look forward to shaping the clean energy economy of the future.”

Climate Mayors Network Announces New Steering Committee Members to Strengthen City Climate Action

New members will support committee in continuing to catalyze local climate action among Climate Mayors’ 500+ network members

AUGUST 2, 2022 – Today, Climate Mayors, the network of more than 500 U.S. mayors across the country committed to climate leadership and progress in their cities, announced the addition of eight new Steering Committee members to serve as critical voices within the Climate Mayors network and across the country — highlighting urgent and essential climate leadership occuring in cities throughout the United States. The new members of the Steering Committee are: Justin Bibb, Cleveland, OH; Ed Gainey, Pittsburgh, PA; Indya Kincannon, Knoxville, TN; Lauren McLean, Boise, ID; Jeffrey Mims Jr., Dayton, OH; Daniel Rickenmann, Columbia, SC; and Michelle Wu, Boston, MA. The Climate Mayors’ Steering Committee makes clear that mayors across the country have and will continue to step up and lead on climate, regardless of the decisions made at the federal level.

These eight mayors join the Steering Committee with returning members: Tim Keller, Albuquerque, NM; Steve Adler, Austin, TX; Michael Cahill, Beverly, MA; Jim Brainard, Carmel, IN; Mary Casillas Salas, Chula Vista, CA; Eric Johnson, Dallas, TX; Frank Cownie, Des Moines, IA; Jim Hovland, Edina, MN; Lucy Vinis, Eugene, OR; Lioneld Jordan,  Fayetteville, AR; Sylvester Turner,  Houston, TX; Greg Fischer, Louisville, KY; Eric Garcetti, Los Angeles, CA; Satya Rhodes-Conway,  Madison, WI; Jacob Frey,  Minneapolis, MN; LaToya Cantrell,  New Orleans, LA; Buddy Dyer, Orlando, FL; Kate Gallego, Phoenix, AZ; Ron Nirenberg, San Antonio, TX; Jane Castor, Tampa, FL; and Regina Romero, Tucson, AZ.

The Steering Committee works alongside the Climate Mayors’ Chair, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, and Co-Chairs, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego and Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway to continue driving city-led climate action to create more sustainable, equitable, and healthy cities for all. With the addition of these new members, the Steering Committee will continue to catalyze membership and more deeply engage their regions, in addition to showcasing how Climate Mayors are addressing and preparing for climate impacts in cities across the US.

“Cities experience the impacts of climate change firsthand — and local leaders are central to supporting the solutions that will create more climate resilient and equitable communities for the future,” said Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner. “While climate policy stalls at the federal level, cities know we cannot afford to waste time. We must take climate action into our own hands — and the Climate Mayors Steering Committee will lead us.”

“Mayors have long been at the frontline of bold climate and emissions reductions efforts — and our Steering Committee mayors are leading this effort both within our network and in their own communities. We are thrilled to have the support of these new members working towards a brighter future for all,” said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego.

“As mayors, we know from experience that climate impacts us all. Whether red or blue, big or small, all cities are facing these impacts,” said Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway. “In the face of this challenge, our strength is derived from our diversity of experience. I look forward to working with these new members as we continue to tackle the greatest and most pressing challenge of our time.”

Following former President Donald Trump’s announcement of his plans to withdraw the U.S. from the landmark Paris Agreement in 2017, more than 300 mayors joined the Climate Mayors coalition and pledged to continue working toward meeting the goals of the Agreement within their cities. The bipartisan network has since grown to over 500 mayors, representing cities ranging in size and region — demonstrating the overwhelming support for climate action among the vast majority of Americans.

About Climate Mayors Representing over 74 million Americans from 48 states, Climate Mayors is a peer-to-peer network of over 500 U.S. city mayors who have committed to fighting climate change. Originally founded in 2014 by 3 mayors, the network’s ranks swelled to almost 400 mayors in response to the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement in June 2017. Climate Mayors is committed to accelerating equitable climate action to help each member city achieve their climate goals, while working together city-to-city, with states, and the Biden administration to increase national climate ambition. For more information, please visit https://climatemayors.org/ and follow Climate Mayors on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com  

Climate Mayors Statement on the Proposed Inflation Reduction Act of 2022

 In response to the announcement of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 Climate Mayors Chair and Mayor of Houston Sylvester Turner issued the following statement: 

 “The proposed Inflation Reduction Act 2022 is a historic advancement for climate and clean energy in the United States. For years, mayors, governors, activists, businesses, and the scientific community have sounded the alarm for bold climate legislation at the federal level. At last, that day has arrived.“ This bill will provide the necessary funding to advance clean energy projects around the country, clean up communities impacted by decades of pollution, help everyday consumers save on their energy expenses, and create millions of jobs. Federal investments in climate and clean energy will finally provide local leaders with the resources and tools to implement their vision for cleaner, more sustainable, and more equitable communities. Cities have made tremendous climate progress in recent years but we can only go so far – this legislation will help ensure our country delivers on our climate commitments to the world.“ Congress must not delay in passing this landmark investment in our clean energy and economic future. The Senate and House must take this bill up swiftly – we cannot wait any longer.” 

Statement from Climate Mayors on Biden Administration’s Executive Climate Actions

Washington, DC (July 20, 2022) – Today, following President Joe Biden’s announcement that his administration would be taking steps to address extreme heat and expand wind power, Climate Mayors’ Chair Mayor Sylvester Turner released the following statement: “We thank President Biden for his actions today — both to aid the communities most affected by extreme heat with immediate relief and financial support, as well as to expand our country’s renewable energy infrastructure and ensure affordable, reliable energy in the longer-term. “While the Senate delays critical federal climate legislation, frontline and other overburdened communities continue to have their lives, livelihoods, and homes threatened by climate impacts. As the responsibility to deliver results is once again passed to cities, states, businesses, and non-federal institutions, we know that is not enough – bold, federal action is essential to meet our climate targets and mitigate the worst climate impacts. We must act with a unified purpose to rein in emissions and rapidly scale-up clean energy to ensure a just transition for all.“Today’s actions from the Biden Administration are a welcome step and we urge them to take any other feasible measures to reduce the burden of climate on our communities and build a more equitable, resilient future for all Americans.”

About Climate Mayors Representing over 74 million Americans from 48 states, Climate Mayors is a peer-to-peer network of 474 U.S. city mayors who have committed to fighting climate change. Originally founded in 2014 by 3 mayors, the network’s ranks swelled to almost 400 mayors in response to the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement in June 2017. Climate Mayors is committed to accelerating equitable climate action to help each member city achieve their climate goals, while working together city-to-city, with states, and the Biden administration to increase national climate ambition.

For more information, please visit WWW.CLIMATEMAYORS.ORG.

Statements From Climate Mayors Co-Chairs in Response to Supreme Court Ruling on West Virginia v. EPA

June 30, 2022: Today, the Co-Chairs of Climate Mayors released the following statements in response to the Supreme Court’s ruling in the case of West Virginia v. EPA:

Mayor of Houston, TX and Climate Mayors Chair Sylvester Turner: “The Supreme Court’s decision is a significant blow to our nation’s ability to combat the climate crisis and protect the health of our most vulnerable communities. But as we have done time and again, local leaders will continue to step in to fill the void and cut emissions, prioritize public health, and ensure environmental justice for all. We urge Congress to support us and to act swiftly to protect community health and our collective climate.” 

Mayor of Madison, WI and Climate Mayors Co-Chair Satya Rhodes Conway: “This is familiar territory for mayors. We have long been at the frontline of emissions reductions efforts and have no intention of slowing down. Meeting the scope and scale of the climate crisis will require actions at every level of government and we hope this decision inspires Congress to act swiftly to pass vital climate legislation.” 

Mayor of Phoenix, AZ and Climate Mayors Co-Chair Kate Gallego: “This disappointing decision is a clear signal that local leaders will need to lead the charge for meaningful action to cut emissions. We will continue to prioritize the health and safety of our communities and environment and urge Congress to take the much-needed and long-delayed steps to get federal climate legislation over the finish line.”  

About Climate MayorsRepresenting over 74 million Americans from 48 states, Climate Mayors is a peer-to-peer network of 474 U.S. city mayors who have committed to fighting climate change. Originally founded in 2014 by 3 mayors, the network’s ranks swelled to almost 400 mayors in response to the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement in June 2017. Climate Mayors is committed to accelerating equitable climate action to help each member city achieve their climate goals, while working together city-to-city, with states, and the Biden administration to increase national climate ambition.

For more information, please visit WWW.CLIMATEMAYORS.ORG.

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com 

Climate Mayors Statement on the Supreme Court’s Decision in West Virginia v. EPA

June 30, 2022 — Today, Climate Mayors' Executive Director Kate Wright released the following statement on the Supreme Court's decision in West Virginia v. EPA: “Today’s ruling from the Supreme Court is a major loss for the United States and our efforts to support climate-resilient and sustainable communities. Cities are on the front lines of the climate crisis and are often the first to feel the effects of dirtier air and unrestrained industries. Many cities like Houston, Phoenix, Madison, Boise, Augusta, Maui, Cleveland, and New Orleans are already taking action to meet ambitious goals to reduce emissions and promote cleaner, more equitable communities. But while mayors are taking bold measures to decrease pollution, their actions alone are not enough. Addressing climate impacts requires reducing emissions in every sector of our economy, across every segment of society—and robust legislative and policy support will be critical to reaching our climate goals and protecting city residents.”

About Climate Mayors Representing over 74 million Americans from 48 states, Climate Mayors is a peer-to-peer network of 474 U.S. city mayors who have committed to fighting climate change. Originally founded in 2014 by 3 mayors, the network’s ranks swelled to almost 400 mayors in response to the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement in June 2017. Climate Mayors is committed to accelerating equitable climate action to help each member city achieve their climate goals, while working together city-to-city, with states, and the Biden administration to increase national climate ambition. For more information, please visit WWW.CLIMATEMAYORS.ORG. 

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com 

Climate Mayors Gather in Reno for Leadership Forum on Local Climate Action

Group released declaration affirming their support for local and state action to reduce emissions and pollution

Reno, NV – June 6, 2022—Last week, Climate Mayors from cities and towns around the country gathered in Reno, NV for the Climate Mayors Leadership Forum. In partnership with C40 Cities, the forum brought together local leaders, Biden Administration officials, and policy experts to share ideas, demonstrate best practices, and celebrate advancements in local climate action and the Cities Race to Zero. At the close of the Forum, the mayors released a declaration of their collective commitment to expand electric vehicles in their cities. “Cities are at the forefront of the climate crisis and mayors across the United States are coming together here to tell our stories, and learn from one another in investing in clean energy, greening our economies, and creating more sustainable and resilient communities,” said Houston, TX mayor and Climate Mayors Chair, Sylvester Turner. “I am looking forward to our continued partnership with C40 Cities and USCM for this meeting to prioritize the work we are doing.”

“It was a pleasure bringing together this group of local climate champions to exchange ideas and chart a path towards a clean, resilient and equitable future,” said Climate Mayors Executive Director, Kate Wright. “Mayors are on the ground confronting the everyday challenges posed by the climate crisis. With the support of the federal government, they are the ones best positioned to confront those challenges.”

“The Climate Mayors Leadership Forum was an exciting opportunity to hear from fellow mayors and officials from the Biden Administration,” said Phoenix, AZ mayor and Climate Mayors Co-Chair Kate Gallego. “Mayors represent a diverse array of communities— each with unique challenges and opportunities— but the lessons learned from each other are invaluable to keep our communities on track to meet our urgent climate goals in the race to a zero-carbon future.”

“I am thankful the Climate Mayors network was able to bring this tremendous group of leaders together to tackle one of the most significant challenges facing our communities and planet,” said Madison, WI mayor and Climate Mayors Co-Chair Satya Rhodes-Conway. “Local leaders know all too well that climate change is impacting lives right now. Fortunately, we have Mayors around the country stepping up to shape a sustainable future for generations to come.”

"C40 is honored to continue to be a partner with Climate Mayors on this critical event," said Laura Jay, Regional Director for North America at C40 Cities. "The Climate Mayors Leadership Forums provides the opportunity for US mayors to discuss their climate challenges and share innovative solutions that are being deployed in cities. These past two years have shown us more than ever how important it is for mayors to learn from each other in the face of challenges such as COVID-19 and climate change. We're happy to continue our work with Climate Mayors to help great healthier, sustainable, and equitable cities across the country."

During the forum, mayors engaged in dialogue with administration officials to highlight city-level climate priorities and how funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law can aid in those efforts. Mayors also held a discussion with Matt Petersen, President & CEO of Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator and Climate Mayor Board Chair, and Nick DePorter, Sr. Lead Manager of Public Policy and Economic Graph at LinkedIn on generating green jobs in their communities. The forum concluded with Mayor Justin Bibb, of Cleveland Mayor LaToya Cantrell, of New Orleans, Mayor Lauren McLean, of Boise, Mayor Hardie Davis Jr., of Augusta, Mayor Steve Adler, of Austin, and Mayor Michael Victorino, of Maui sharing case studies from their cities to highlight building resilience, achieving carbon neutrality, and electrifying municipal vehicle fleets.

About Climate MayorsRepresenting over 74 million Americans from 48 states, Climate Mayors is a peer-to-peer network of 474 U.S. city mayors who have committed to fighting climate change. Originally founded in 2014 by 3 mayors, the network’s ranks swelled to almost 400 mayors in response to the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement in June 2017. Climate Mayors is committed to accelerating equitable climate action to help each member city achieve their climate goals, while working together city-to-city, with states, and the Biden administration to increase national climate ambition.

For more information, please visit WWW.CLIMATEMAYORS.ORG.