Boulder County is stepping up its climate action game with a hefty sum awarded to various municipal projects focused on sustainability. The County Commissioners announced that they're doling out $540,510 through Environmental Sustainability Municipal Matching Grants, an effort that pools resources from eight different cities and towns, according to Boulder County. These funds are set to fuel efforts like energy efficiency upgrades, solar power enhancements, and tree plantings, among other environmentally-conscious initiatives.
In a show of communal climate commitment, the local governments are not just recipients but active participants, tossing an extra $135,128 into the collective pot for an added boost to these eco-friendly endeavors. Commissioner Claire Levy hammered home the collective spirit of the grants, stating, "The sustainability matching grant program is a collective effort to address the climate crisis,” in a statement obtained by Boulder County. She added, "Together, we're building a healthier and more resilient community for all."
The generosity was spread based on population, with Longmont landing the lion's share of $199,235 earmarked for their Whole Home Health Program, and Boulder snagging $168,000 for resilience initiatives like landscaping demos. Lafayette is looking to green up with a $61,965 grant to expand and track their urban tree canopy, while Louisville, Superior, Jamestown, Lyons, and Nederland each received grants ranging from $15,000 to $40,344, earmarked for individual projects designed to buttress sustainability within their communities.
Funded by the voter-approved Sustainability Tax, these grants are part of a broader, long-term project aimed at curbing emissions and fortifying the community against climate change's impact. Lea Yancey, the grant program manager, underscored the significance of these efforts, "The cities and towns in Boulder County have all undertaken meaningful efforts to address climate change," she told Boulder County. Adding, “This program is designed to give communities additional resources to accelerate their climate work.” The tax, which extends until 2034, is a 0.125% sales and use tax that's been in play since 2019.
