City of Hood River Takes Action on Climate

In November, Hood River became the first city in Oregon to pass a resolution recognizing a Climate Crisis and committingHood River to go carbon free in its own operations by 2035. The City doesn’t just talk the talk, it walks the walk. Hood River has a long history of leadership on climate and sustainability issues.

In recent years, the City has changed its street lights from incandescent bulbs to LEDs, installed solar panels on the fire station, waterfront park bathrooms, and public works administration building and will be purchasing first-generation, hybrid-electric police interceptors this year. The City spearheaded development of the Hood River County Energy Plan and provided funding for the Hood River County Energy Coordinator position. The City Council just voted to add a solar array to the wastewater treatment plant.

Not only will these energy efficient actions reduce the City’s carbon footprint, they will save taxpayers money. Did you know a hybrid police car saves about $2,800 in fuel costs per year compared to a gas powered vehicle? The new solar array at the wastewater plant will generate a 5.6% return on investment. That’s a big win-win for Hood River.

We want to express our thanks to the City Council for their leadership, and especially to  councilors Megan Saunders and Tim Counihan who drafted the resolution.