For most local governments, implementing sustainable community strategies is not a matter of priorities; it is a matter of resources.
Now, a new statewide initiative is making it a little easier for local governments to garner tools that will help them pursue clean energy, increase energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and safeguard against the impacts of climate change.
This new initiative, CivicSpark, is a program administered by the Local Government Commission in partnership with the Governor's Office of Planning and Research, the Corporation for National and Community Service (AmeriCorps), and several local partners, including Los Angeles County and The Energy Network.
CivicSpark will deploy professional project managers, AmeriCorps members - 48 members selected through a highly competitive, national application process, and hundreds of volunteers throughout the state. CivicSpark teams will provide high-quality research, planning and project implementation services to local governments.
Local public agencies (cities, counties, MPOs, school districts, and others) interested in this valuable resource may apply now. Selected local government applicants could receive support as early as November 2014.
When it comes to climate change, California is thinking globally and acting locally. Local governments have been and will continue to take a leading role. The Energy Network is proud to support their efforts.