Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey was at Edison High School Wednesday afternoon to announce what he calls an historic investment into the city's Climate Equity Action Plan, which includes $8 to $10 million in new spending annually. That begins next year.
The City of Minneapolis aims to be one of the most sustainable cities in the world. This Climate Equity Plan sets a goal to significantly reduce climate pollution by 2030 and become carbon neutral by 2050.
Frey says part of the plan includes weatherizing every home in the city.
"We're going to start first with our lower income communities to make sure their homes are weatherized, that there's proper sealants, that there is passive energy use where it's possible," says Frey. "And we're going above and beyond what we've ever done before. So this means that homes are equipped to deal with the hottest and the coldest days of the year. And you all know we have these extremes in Minnesota."
Frey says the money will be raised through fees on residents' gas and electric bills amounting to between $8 and $12 a year for the average homeowner.
"So is it a big plan? Sure it is," Frey says. "But it's one we're committed to, and one we're ready for. We plan on leading the nation on climate work, and the climate legacy initiative will help us do this."
The city's Climate Action Equity Plan lays out dozens of ways Minneapolis plans to reduce climate damage in the coming years and beyond.
Minneapolis City Council President Andrea Jenkins says this is not a political cause.
"This is a human cause," says Jenkins. "It requires all hands on deck to protect our community, our state, our planet."
Climate change is already impacting Minneapolis communities. This Climate Equity Plan sets a goal to significantly reduce climate pollution by 2030 and become carbon neutral by 2050.
But it’s not just about the environment. It’s about people. This work prioritizes diverse residents, organizations and businesses, especially in our Green Zones. It reduces utility bills and increases green jobs. It creates a healthier, more prosperous future for everyone.
Partnering with community members to improve racial equity.
Tackling climate change and improving people’s lives.
The City of Minneapolis is committed to take on these challenges. It will take time, but together we create the future. Our City. Our Plan.
You can read the entire 2023 plan from Minneapolis here.
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