Sustaining the 9th - We can do it – Together

By Michael Drennan

Evanston residents have an unprecedented opportunity to enter the civic life of their community. This spring we elected a new mayor and majority to the City Council, soon complimented by new city manager. We ratified a plan envisioned wholly by your neighbors to reduce our carbon footprint thirteen percent; the only plan of its kind. And Northwestern's new president will consider a fifty year vision for the University, one that must recognize the vital role our City plays in that development.

We also face unparalleled challenges. Falling revenues and rising costs will demand courage of the new City Council to reconsider even our most cherished City programs. We feel the same pinch at home as we scramble to make ends meet and do less with more. Hard times demand united action. Together we can implement cost saving efficiencies in energy and transportation. Together we can coordinate travel efforts to reduce commuting times. Together we will keep an eye on our kids and neighborhood to improve the safety of all.

Coleen asked that I update her and the Ward on our progress to implement Evanston’s climate action plan. I am going one step further by inviting you to get involved. First, visit www.greenerevanston.org, home page for Citizens for a Greener Evanston (CGE). Whether you want to recommend your condo association to install solar thermal panels or recommend that the City Council vote yes to a green building ordinance, CGE will engage and empower you. To gauge your progress on adopting a "green" lifestyle visit www.zerofootprint.net/one_minute/evanston.  Measure your carbon footprint. You might be surprised at your progress. Or just email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Fact is reducing our carbon footprint means reducing the utility and transportation costs we face individually and as a community.  I believe Coleen understands this but she needs your support, ideas suggestions and insight to represent the 9th Ward to the city. Together we can help her at this critical juncture in our history. Together we can earn the pride of our grandchildren.