February 16, 2023 - v. 3, number 4
Apply NOW:
The 2023 Sustainable CT Fellowship Program

Deadline: Monday, February 20
The deadline of February 20 is quickly approaching to apply to be a Sustainable CT Fellow for the summer of 2023.

We're placing highly qualified college students across the state’s Councils of Governments (COGs) to help cities and towns become registered, certified, or recertified with Sustainable CT. 

Fellows gain valuable experience working within a professional setting and are directly engaged with cutting-edge sustainability initiatives, local government operations, and regional coordination and operation.

Don't miss this opportunity to advance your career, enhance your education, and make a difference!
Climate Leader Webinar Series: Becoming a Bicycle Friendly Community
More than 500 communities across the nation have achieved the Bicycle Friendly Community designation from the League of American Bicyclists. Beyond earning 10 points for your town as a part of your Sustainable CT certification (Action 6.1.5, Implement Complete Streets), achieving at least the bronze-level status in this program will make your community a welcoming place for bicyclists. February 23, 11-11:45 a.m.
More in Our Climate Leader Webinar Series: Streamlining Solar Permitting in Your Community
Hear from representatives from the Great Plains Institute and Cadmus as they discuss the SolSmart designation program and how they can help your community achieve national recognition at no cost. March 22, 11 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 
A Seat at the Table: CCM Offers Training on Running for Public Office
The Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM) is partnering once again with the Campaign School at Yale University to invite Connecticut’s communities of color to learn about the important opportunities that await when you decide to run for office or serve on a board or commission. Join this training virtually on February 25 and March 4. 
A Sustainable CT Webinar: Sustainable Snow Management
Don't Think Spring just yet. Sustainability in winter operations is more important than ever. Winter maintenance professionals must employ best practices to minimize salt use and maximize their operations for both fiscal and environmental stewardship. Sustainable CT Action 3.14, Implement Sustainable Snow Management, was newly added in 2023. Mary McCarthy, T2 Center Program Director, and Shannon O’Loughlin, T2 Center Educational Program Coordinator, will talk more about the activities within this action and specifically about the CT Green Snow Pro training opportunities and how it can help your town earn points for your certification. March 9, 1-2 p.m.
The February Episode is Now Available
We caught up with Sam Gold, Executive Director of the Lower Connecticut River Valley Council of Governments, for a wide-ranging discussion about Connecticut's demographic challenges, affordable housing, regional planning and implementation, energy, and some trash talk, too. Listen, enjoy, and share. 
DEEP: Next Steps in Waste Management
As a follow up to Governor Lamont’s recent announcement of key waste management proposals, the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has announced next steps in addressing the future of waste management in Connecticut. They include:
 
A Comprehensive Materials Management Strategy draft amendment. Written comments are due by March 10.  
 
$1.5 million in state grant funding through the Sustainable Materials Management Grant Program. An informational webinar is on March 7, and applications are due by March 31.  
 
Information to solicit input on materials management infrastructure. A listening session is on March 14 and concept papers and public comments are due by April 14. 
The Next Sustainable CT Coffee Hour:
February 17 at 10 a.m.
The Fundamentals of the Homelessness Response System

Our Category 12 Actions focus on sustainable, compassionate homelessness prevention, and the February Coffee Hour will provide an opportunity to learn about homelessness providers and resources for your communities. Staff from the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness and Coordinated Access Network providers from across the state will be on hand to provide information and answer your questions.

Join Sustainable CT for (virtual) informal discussions most third Fridays of each month at 10 a.m. We share program updates and resources, explore your questions, and strengthen the network of Sustainable CT champions. These sessions are free and open to all.
And speaking of housing...
Something to write home about
The Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut has announced that on March 16, 2023, the Center for Housing Equity and Opportunity in Eastern Connecticut (CHEO) will officially launch. The Center will facilitate a coordinated, regional response to address housing affordability in Eastern Connecticut including throughout New London, Windham, and part of Tolland Counties. Bravo, CFEC, and to all your partners in this important work. There's no place like (an affordable) home.
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