County officials vote to reduce greenhouse gasses
By Sylvie Belmond belmond@theacorn.com

By voting on Tuesday to develop a 2007 Climate Change Action Plan, Ventura County Supervisors are trying to set a good example for local residents.

The action plan contains a longterm commitment and enables the county to seek grants and extra funding to sustain its efforts, which have already been paying off.

For almost two decades, the Department of Public Works has been trying to reduce energy consumption not only through better design but also through traffic improvements that facilitate circulation, said county staff.

Local taxpayers already save about $94,000 annually because the county is retrofitting facilities to drive energy costs down, said Supervisor Linda Parks.

As energy rates rise, the savings should be even greater, said Parks, adding that the county's efficiency has resulted in $78,000 in cash rebates from suppliers.

The Oak Park Library alone saved $2,800 using natural lighting and energy-efficient glass that yielded a 27 percent reduction in energy consumption.

The county is hoping that the state's Global Warming Solutions law, which went into effect late last year, will help document where specific greenhouse gas reduction has been achieved, Parks said.

"Every developer is going to have to make buildings more efficient and consider car trips before they build," Parks said.

County officials said they want to promote more sustainable living habits. Their goal is to reduce air pollution and water consumption through public education.

"Conserving water also conserves energy," said Supervisor John Flynn. "We have to find a way to communicate with the population we serve. Everyone can contribute individually," he said.

Supervisor Steve Bennett suggested that the county must involve the cities in the policymaking process.

"It really is about what we're going to leave for the next generation," he said.

"It's going to take a regional effort to make a difference in the climate change challenges," said Supervisor Kathy Long.

Parks proposed a tree-planting campaign for the county. Tree canopies enhance quality of life because they improve air quality and reduce the temperature on hot days, she said.

Supervisor Peter Foy wanted concrete statistics to ensure that the investments to minimize green gases are based on factual information.

"It sure helps to motivate people if there is real value to tree planting," he said.

"It seems that the plan is based on facts and long-term benefits," said a speaker at the meeting.

"We can't afford not to take action," said another public speaker.

Visit www.builditsmartvc.org for more information about sustainable building and green gas emissions reduction.