By Michael P. Walsh
Special to the Voice
Sustainable CT, a statewide initiative that inspires and supports communities to become more efficient, resilient and inclusive, has recognized the city for achieving Bronze-level certification as a sustainable community.
Sustainable CT Executive Director Jessica LeClair said West Haven met high standards in a broad range of sustainability accomplishments to qualify for the prestigious Bronze certification, which is good for three years.
“We are delighted to have regained our status in Sustainable CT after having it go dormant for a number of years,” Mayor Dorinda Borer said. “This recognition shows the commitment we have made to create a thriving and resilient community and inspires us to continue our efforts down this path. I’m proud of the work our assistant grant writer, Vanessa Hruszko, did to help us get to this point.”
“Next stop, Silver certification!” Borer exclaimed.
In its application for Sustainable CT certification, West Haven demonstrated “significant achievements” in 13 sustainable impact areas, LeClair said, ranging from inclusive community building and thriving local economies to vibrant arts and culture and clean transportation.
The city amassed 265 points in 21 of 78 possible action categories, far exceeding the required 200 points for Bronze certification, according to Hruszko, who prepared West Haven’s certification application.
“This project really highlights the work the city is doing in terms of equity, climate resiliency, the arts and inclusiveness,” Hruszko said. “The city has made great strides in keeping citizens educated on the great projects being worked on and providing wonderful programming for all residents. This application process has assisted us with identifying new grant and funding opportunities we’re currently working on.”
Area communities also receiving Bronze certification were Beacon Falls, Cheshire, Guilford and Woodbridge.
“Congratulations to our certified communities,” LeClair said. “We are inspired by the leadership and commitment of these communities. From elected officials and town staff to resident volunteers, these certified towns are improving opportunities and the quality of life for all.”
“Once again, our municipalities have successfully initiated and implemented projects that address climate resilience, energy efficiency, equity, land conservation, waste reduction and economic development, among other important priorities,” said co-Chair Nicole Chevalier of Sustainable CT’s board of directors. “The work these towns do is critical to achieving the state’s ambitious environmental and climate objectives, and we are incredibly proud of them.”
The Sustainable CT program includes actions that help cities and towns build community connection, social equity and long-term resilience. It includes an action road map and support tools that are especially relevant, Chevalier said, as communities seek practices and resources to promote racial justice and respond to the ongoing challenges of climate change and economic uncertainty.
Board co-Chair Michael Purcaro said he sees profound changes taking place across the state.
“By recognizing the natural environment as the foundation for the health and well-being of all people, our sustainable initiatives are driving real change in towns and cities across Connecticut,” Purcaro said. “We’re seeing improved efficiency in the delivery of government services, significant cost savings and a stronger sense of community.
“We congratulate our award recipients and commend them for their collective work to create a more vibrant state that provides opportunities for all to thrive.”
Sustainable CT is philanthropically funded, with support from the Emily Hall Tremaine Foundation, the Hampshire Foundation, the Common Sense Fund, the Connecticut Green Bank and the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut.
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