We need city investment today on climate

Thank you to Leah Robshaw Robinson for spotlighting climate justice resources (“How we win: Organizing for environmental and climate justice” in the Sept. 21 edition of the Connector). I found myself answering yes to Leah’s questions: yes, I care deeply about environmental justice. Yes, I feel increasingly paralyzed by the enormity of the climate emergency. As I watch $23 billion worth of U.S. climate disasters this year unfold on the news, as I keep my kids inside on precious Minnesota summer days because of wildfire smoke – yes, I crave tangible, local, strategic action and organization.

If you feel the same way, I want to share a simple, immediate call to action you can take today. On Oct. 19, city council will vote for a franchise fee increase that will raise $10 million in 2024 to launch a neighborhood by neighborhood, fully supported transition to clean energy homes. The federal Inflation Reduction Act and Minnesota’s 100 percent clean energy legislation give us a precious gift - an opportunity to take bold, ambitious, critical steps toward decarbonization – but we need city investment to move quickly and ensure these resources are accessible to everyone. We cannot let this opportunity slip through our fingers.

If you too feel numbed by the enormity of the climate crisis, use your voice to push for this funding. It is time for Minneapolis to lead by example on what courageous climate action looks like. We need $10 million next year and then we need to scale that number up quickly in the years to come.

Call your council member, e-mail them, tell them how you feel about funding the Climate Legacy Initiative and what it means for you, your children, your grandchildren. And then hold them accountable when they are up for re-election in November – our future depends on it.

Kelly Sanderson
Kingfield