Environmental Action Alert: Climate Action Plan for Berkeley lacking in the action part [Updated: 3/31/09]

Berkeley’s Climate Action Plan Sputtering

In November 2006, Berkeley voters passed Measure G by a whopping 81%. This measure authorized the city to reduce Berkeley’s greenhouse-gas emissions 80% by 2050. The city has since been drafting a Climate Action Plan, and the first draft appeared in January, 2008. Feedback on the plan was lukewarm at best, since the draft used the word “consider” much more than the word “do.” City staff released a second draft on Sept. 23, which received a more favorable response from the environmental community.

Public comment is still on-going, and debate continues around issues of transportation and land use. Questions still surround many issues including a Bus Rapid Transit program and the expansion of bus service into the Berkeley hills. However, despite real efforts to address these and other important issues, there is much talk about planning and little talk about putting any plans into action.

We need the Berkeley City Council to pass a vigorous version of the Climate Action Plan as an official policy document with binding force over all city policies, not just as a “reference document” with no legal force. Commit Berkeley to as many specific programs as possible in the next two general budget cycles.

Write Your Letter Today! Each letter represents the concerns of hundreds of voters. Send your letter today! Please follow these guidelines: Hand written letters are best. State clearly what action you want. Share a personal reason or experience. Include your address on the letter and envelope Write directly to: Mayor Bates and the Berkeley City Council 2180 Milvia St. Berkeley, CA 94704

Dear Mayor Bates and the Berkeley City Council, I encourage you to pass a vigorous version of the Climate Action Plan as an official policy document with binding force over all city policies, not just as a "reference document" with no legal force. Commit Berkeley to as many specific programs as possible in the next two general budget cycles. Thank You, [Sign with your Printed Name and Return Address]

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