Yavapai News

SEDONA, Ariz. - The city of Sedona is introducing a new initiative called the Sustainable Neighborhoods Pilot Program, which aims to empower residents to work together to create sustainability projects in their neighborhoods. The program, launched by the city's Sustainability Department, invites residents from neighborhoods, homeowner associations, and neighborhood organizations to join and participate in this unique opportunity.

Residents who are passionate about sustainability will have the chance to collaborate with their neighbors in designing and leading projects that enhance the environmental and social strength of their communities. The city will provide administrative support and connect residents with resources to ensure the success of these projects. Examples of potential projects include home energy efficiency upgrades, educational workshops, community gardens, and neighborhood cleanup days.

To learn more about the program and the application process, interested residents are encouraged to attend an Open House on Monday, February 5, 2024, at The Hub at Posse Grounds Park from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Zach Schwarz, the sustainability coordinator for the city of Sedona, expressed excitement about the program, stating, "We know there are a lot of interested and passionate residents in Sedona who care deeply about sustainability and climate action. This program offers a fantastic way for our residents to act on their passions while also building closer ties with their neighbors."

The Sustainable Neighborhoods Pilot Program focuses on five key categories: Energy, Land, Air, Water, and People. Applications for the program will be available starting on February 6, 2024, after the Open House. City sustainability staff will select two neighborhoods to support in this initial round. Successful projects will earn program credits for the neighborhood, and at the end of the calendar year, neighborhoods with enough credits will be recognized by the City Council and on the city website. The city may also install signs outside each neighborhood to highlight their sustainability efforts.

Residents are encouraged to discuss the program with their neighbors and brainstorm potential project ideas to include in their application. The program aims to not only enable residents to take action on their sustainability goals but also foster closer connections within the community.

The Open House event will provide refreshments, and efforts are being made to make the event bilingual for Spanish-speaking residents. For more information, residents can visit the program website at www.sustainableneighborhoodnetwork.org/sedona or contact the Sustainability Department at Sustainability@sedonaaz.gov or (928) 203-5123.

To find out more, go to this link: https://www.sedonaaz.gov/Home/Components/News/News/6071/473