Dexter Earns Gold Achievement in Environmental Leadership

The Village of Dexter was recognized for environmental leadership at the Michigan Green Communities conference in Lansing on Nov. 2.

As part of the recently expanded Michigan Green Communities Challenge, participating local governments were awarded gold, silver, bronze or member seals of achievement reflecting community leadership in areas such as natural resource conservation, green economic development and energy efficiency.

Dexter achieved gold status for several projects, including the 2011 installation of 120 LED streetlights in the downtown area and its tree replacement program aimed at preserving and inventory of trees throughout the community.

The Michigan Green Communities Challenge is a new tool to help local leaders measure their progress in implementing energy, economic development and environmental improvements. It is supported by the Michigan Association of Counties, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Michigan Economic Development Corporation Energy Office, Michigan Municipal League and Michigan Townships Association. It uses a rating system to recognize sustainability accomplishments and serves as a guide for community leaders looking to learn from their peers.

The program launched in 2009 and emphasized energy efficiency projects in an effort to help local governments prepare for and make the best use of federal Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) funds.

“It is great to be part of a community that has such high standards for environmental excellence and to continue to be recognized for the village’s commitment to environmental excellence,” village manager Donna Dettling told Heritage Newspapers. “Receiving the Michigan Green Communities Gold Award on Nov. 2, 2012 makes it even more meaningful.”