The Town of Lyme announced today that it had been recognized for meeting high standards in a broad range of sustainability accomplishments and had received prestigious bronze-level certification from Sustainable CT.
Sustainable CT is a statewide initiative that inspires and supports communities in becoming more efficient, resilient and inclusive.
In learning of the award, First Selectman Steven Mattson said, “I would like to thank the hard-working team of volunteers on our Sustainable Committee, as well as the volunteers on our boards and commissions, elected officials and Town staff who made this accomplishment possible. The award is further proof that Lyme is a great place to live.”
In its application for Sustainable CT certification, the Town of Lyme demonstrated significant achievements with 18 actions in 12 sustainable impact areas. The Town was awarded points for its emphasis of the importance of open space; its adoptions of an equity resolution and an affordable housing plan; its expansive communications with residents; and its active promotion of resources for maintaining dark skies, fighting invasive plant species, buying local, and linking residents to area social services and public transportation.
Programs of note that were launched as part of the Town’s efforts to receive certification include the Lyme Pollinator Pathway and Lymes’ Creative Arts. More information on all of the Town’s sustainable activities can be found here.
Lyme Sustainable Committee Chair Gavin Lodge said, “Being designated as a Sustainable CT municipality is a great honor and reflects a true team effort on the part of many volunteers, boards and commissions.” In particular, Lodge thanked the 11 volunteers who serve on the Sustainable Committee: Sue Cope, Sarah Crisp, Diana Fiske, Liz Frankel, Carleen Gerber, Wendy Hill, Carol House, John Kiker, David Lahm, Jim Miller, Alan Sheiness and Cynthia Willauer.
The Town needed at least 200 points to achieve bronze certification and received 275 points. Lodge said the next step would be looking at taking Lyme to silver certification, the highest current level of certification available.