Neenah embraces ecological principles

Council unanimously passes resolution
By Duke Behnke Post-Crescent staff writer

NEENAH — The city set the framework Wednesday for becoming an ecologically friendly community, provided it's economically feasible.

The Common Council unanimously passed a resolution endorsing principles of sustainability such as reducing dependence on fossil fuels and chemicals that accumulate in the environment.

The resolution says Neenah "will endeavor to apply these principles, when economically feasible, to its decision-making, planning, policy making and municipal practices."

It also challenges Neenah residents and businesses "to promote and embrace the philosophy and principles of sustainability."

Ald. Todd Stevenson opposed an earlier version of the resolution in committee because it did not contain the clause "when economically feasible" and could have bound the city to considerable costs.

"When we add the words 'when economically feasible,' I can support it," he said.

Mayor George Scherck introduced the resolution to the council. As a first step, he asked city staff to explore using solar energy in city buildings.

"While no one community can do everything, each of us has a responsibility to take whatever actions we can to make certain that our decisions do not have a negative impact on future generations," Scherck said.

The resolution calls for the creation of a Sustainable Neenah Committee to guide and promote actions to protect the environment. The mayor will appoint members of the committee.

Scherck said Neenah has made significant strides toward sustainability. It operates a successful curbside recycling program, uses waste oil to heat the city garage and has replaced incandescent light bulbs with fluorescent bulbs.

It also has expanded its trail system for pedestrians and bicyclists, and it has supported an environmentally friendly housing development called The Cottages at Woodside Green.

Scherck said while progress has been made, "too often the efforts are unconnected and not part of an ongoing, consistent initiative."

"By adopting the resolution, and creating a Sustainable Neenah Committee, Neenah will join a growing international network of communities committed to reducing dependence on fossil fuels, on chemicals and other manufactured substances that can accumulate in nature, and on activities that harm life-sustaining ecosystems," Scherck said.

Madison, La Crosse, Manitowoc and Marshfield are among Wisconsin cities that have adopted similar resolutions.