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Milton is awarded the Environmental Initiatives Award

Milton is awarded the Environmental Initiatives Award

MILTON, GA For the first time in its history, the City of Milton has earned a Silver Green Community distinction reflecting the government’s environmentally-friendly initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for all residents.

The Atlanta Regional Commission certified Milton as Bronze in 2012 and 2016. This program is designed to “create a healthier, greener, and more livable area.” The city was awarded silver status for its achievements up to 2021, although no certifications were issued for 2020. Milton received high marks under the points-based certification system for energy efficiency, water usage reduction, and green space.

Mayor Peyton Jamison stated in a press release that “This Silver Green Communities award recognizes the city’s considerable efforts and progress for making Milton, and our entire world, better.” “The City of Milton places a high priority in preserving our rural heritage, protecting our beautiful natural surroundings, as well as doing all we can to ensure that residents have access to the great outdoors for future generations.”

The Green Communities program supports governments in the following ways:

  • Reduce (negative) environmental effects through their actions, buildings and vehicles
  • Be a positive role model for the community and encourage civic pride
  • Encourage and inform citizens, businesses, or organizations to take green-minded steps
  • All these measures can improve citizens’ quality-of-life over the long- and short-terms.

Kelsey Waidhas, Atlanta Regional Commission Sustainability Coordinator, announced that Milton had been awarded this recognition during a Wednesday afternoon meeting. Seven other local governments, including four with platinum certifications, were also recognized.

Kerry Armstrong, Atlanta Regional Commission Board Chairman said Wednesday, “Congratulations all of our honorees.” “This is the culmination a lot of hardwork We’re proud of you.”

Each of these governments presented evidence of dozens individual initiatives before Atlanta Regional Commission representatives were invited to visit the sites. Milton, for example, was recognized for having a “cool roofing” (on City Hall), using rainwater for irrigation, replacing inefficient light bulbs, improving traffic signal coordination, and offering incentives for green building certifications. Waidhas specifically referred to the city’s green spaces program and tree-related initiatives such as the 2020 implementation a Tree Canopy Conservation Ordinance.

Teresa Stickels, who is the City of Milton’s Conservation Project Coordinator and oversees its environmental efforts said that the City of Milton has moved from bronze status to silver as more people express their desire to be green.

Stickels stated that protecting the environment is good for everyone. “We are excited to build on our momentum, and make even greater positive impacts in the next years.”

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