The City of Clearwater recently earned a Green City certification from the Florida Green Building Coalition (FGBC), a non-profit organization with the mission “to lead and promote sustainability with environmental, economic, and social benefits through regional education and certification programs,” according to their website.
Mayor Hibbard accepted the certification at the December 17th Clearwater City Council meeting. “We’ll proudly display it,” Mayor Hibbard remarked, as he accepted the award.
It was noted that this achievement is especially remarkable in the current economic climate, which has presented unique challenges for government. Despite facing cutbacks in budgets and personnel, Clearwater has been able to meet the requirements for Green City certification, with the attendant long-term benefits resulting from such distinction.
The FGBC reserves this certification for governments that “function in a more efficient manner through better internal communication, cost reductions, and effective risk and asset management.” Not only will Clearwater receive the environmental benefits of going green, but economic benefits as well, while experiencing a more efficiently run city.
“This is a great accomplishment for the City of Clearwater and its residents, and I am proud of the hard work that our residents, volunteers, and staff do on a continual basis to preserve Clearwater’s sustainability,” said Mayor Hibbard.
The FGBC was “founded in the belief that green building programs will be most successful if there are clear and meaningful principles on which 'green' qualification and marketing are based.”
To learn more about Clearwater’s sustainability, programs, and environmental initiatives, visit www.myclearwater.com/green.
