Minneapolis is stepping up its game in the fight against climate change, with Mayor Jacob Frey spearheading the Minneapolis Climate Legacy Initiative. The project, touted as a historic step towards sustainability, aims to slash utility bills, boost green job opportunities, and push the city to carbon neutrality by 2050. "You can’t put a price on saving our planet – but the Climate Legacy Initiative triples our investment in climate work and paves the way for important climate initiatives across Minneapolis," Frey stated, as reported by the City of Minneapolis' official news release.
The initiative's first round of funding was recently distributed to over 20 community organizations, targeting specific areas that are in dire need of climate action intervention. It reflects Mayor Frey’s commitment made in July, joining forces with community leaders and city staff to launch the CLI. Yet, its more than just monetary support; it's about a future-proof strategy. As Mayor Frey said, "With this funding, we're committing to years of ongoing initiatives to protect our planet and future generations". A statement detailed in the City's announcement showed the mayor thanking fellow council members for their crucial roles in authoring the initiative.
Minneapolis is backing the CLI with $10 million annually starting from the 2024 budget—tripling previous investments in such efforts. According to Health Commissioner Damōn Chaplin, "We’re committed to reducing the impact of climate change in our city and doing our part locally in this global crisis," underscoring the local accountability in a worldwide problem.
This fresh injection of cash will empower residents to adopt energy-efficient systems, insulate homes, and augment solar energy usage. From the perspective of Chris Duffrin, President of Center for Energy and Environment, this partnership signifies a turning point; "The Climate Legacy Initiative creates potential to reduce carbon emissions while increasing energy affordability, specifically among Minneapolis residents who haven't historically had the means to invest in such improvements," Duffrin heralded.
Organizations like Elevate and Frontier Energy have expressed their gratitude and readiness to collaborate with Minneapolis. Gustavo Sandoval, Senior Project Manager at Elevate, relayed his eagerness in a statement, "We look forward to not only helping them achieve their goals but also inspiring other Midwest cities in the process." Similarly, Frontier Energy recognized the opportunity to work alongside the City, aiming "to achieve greater energy efficiency and sustainability."
The financing of the Climate Legacy Initiative will partly be sourced from an increase in gas and electric utility franchise fees, costing the average Minneapolis household about $12 more a year, as per the City's announcement. These funds will be channeled back into the community, promising to lower energy bills and foster more sustainable living practices. In addition to these funds, the City is also eyeing federal funds and city revenue tools to fully bankroll the CLI and Climate Equity Plan.
