All of us must rise to the challenge of reversing an approaching climate catastrophe. Change can be difficult, intimidating, and unattractive. But it can also be exciting, beneficial, and financially rewarding. Our changing climate is an opportunity to seize on new ideas and economic strategies for the future.

Changes in weather and season patterns are already upon us. The Village of Homer, guided by young people, has taken steps to become a Bronze-certified Climate Smart Community. As County Legislator, I will view every policy decision through the lens of climate change, understanding that every decision can impact the water we drink, the air we breathe, and the land we occupy. Let’s use our accomplishments in Homer as a vision for countywide Climate Fairness. As County Legislator, I will:

• Lead on drafting a Cortland County Climate Action Plan, with goals for weatherizing homes, implementing renewable energy programs in county buildings, and increasing green transportation options

• Sponsor Climate Smart Community (CSC) initiatives, such as solar panel installations on county buildings, and set a county goal to achieve Silver-level certification by 2027

• Fund Rural Cortland with new statewide investments from the NYS Environmental Bond Act and President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act

Our Central New York economy is changing, and it has much to do with investments in green-energy jobs and technologies. With chip and battery manufacturing blossoming in Syracuse and Binghamton, Cortland County is well-positioned to develop our own green manufacturing industries. Let’s become a statewide leader in Climate Fairness and make smart investments in energy efficiency and sustainability.