In this episode, we take a look at Pete's recent climate proposal and touch on the climate town hall that happened last night (9/4/19). We also take a deep dive into Pete's history in South Bend and how his message and actions towards that of climate change have been a guiding force for his mayorship.
Pete's climate crisis proposal
https://peteforamerica.com/climate
South Bend Policies
In 2015, Established Annual Lamppost Lighting Program, Providing Homeowners With Self-Install, Solar-Powered Lampposts For Their Front Yards. “The City of South Bend Department of Public Works is now accepting applications for the 2019 Lamppost Lighting Program, which assists homeowners with lighting enhancements in their neighborhoods. The program offers easy self-install, solar-powered lampposts for residential front yards. […] Since 2015, the Division of Engineering has conducted a residential Lamppost Lighting Program as a part of its Light Up South Bend initiative. The purpose of Light Up South Bend is to improve residential neighborhood safety through the installation of additional street lighting, including both street lights and residential lampposts.” [City of South Bend, 7/11/19]
For The 2019 Program, Lamps Were Discounted Based On Target Factors Including Income. “The cost-share program is available to homeowners in the city. For 2019, the City has selected two target areas based on income, number of vacant lots and need for lighting in the neighborhood. Homeowners who live within the target areas will pay a lower share of the total cost: Within target areas, homeowners pay 10% of total lamppost cost: $50.00. Outside target areas, homeowners pay 50% of total lamppost cost: $250.00.” [City of South Bend, 7/11/19]
In 2016, South Bend Used A Grant To Install 90 Solar Panels To The Century Center, A Move That Would Offset Over 19 Thousand Pounds Of Coal Annually And ‘Significantly Reduce’ Operating Costs Over The Next 15 Years. “The city has installed 90 solar panels atop Century Center as part of an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the city and save taxpayer money. The photovoltaic panels are expected to offset emissions by the equivalent of 2,015 gallons of gasoline or 19,104 pounds of coal annually, according to a news release. The panels were installed with a matching grant from the Solar Uniting Neighbors program and are part of a larger project that includes new heating and cooling systems and light fixtures. Consisting of $5 million in energy improvements, the project is expected to reduce operating costs at the center by a significant amount over the next 15 years. The new panels are part of an initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions citywide, and save taxpayer money, with more energy-efficient buildings and a clean-fuel vehicle program.” [South Bend Tribune, 6/23/16]
Buttigieg: “I’m Proud That We’re Setting An Example In Reducing Emissions And We Will Continue To Explore Solar And Other Renewable Energy Sources To Ensure A Greener, Cleaner And More Sustainable City.” [South Bend Tribune, 6/23/16]
In June 2017, Buttigieg Announced That South Bend Would Be Joining The Mayor’s National Climate Action Agenda, A Coalition Of Cities “That Embrace The Principles Laid Out In The Paris Agreement.” “Mayor Pete Buttigieg today announced today he intends for the City of South Bend join with cities and states that embrace the principles laid out in the Paris Agreement. ‘South Bend has already been directly affected by climate change. Meanwhile, renewable energy and green infrastructure industries are already creating jobs here. Withdrawing from Paris would hurt our community and our economy. Since President Trump has decided that America will no longer lead on this issue, South Bend will join cities and states around the country to continue addressing climate change, even if it means leaving Washington behind.” [City of South Bend, 6/02/17]
Buttigieg: “We Will No Longer Wait On Washington For Leader
