Arlington County Press Release

Ocotber 17, 2007

Arlington County Board Member Jay Fisette Elected President of Virginia Municipal League

Announces "Go Green Virginia" initiative, encouraging environmentally friendly practices by Virginia localities

ARLINGTON, Va. - Arlington County Board Member Jay Fisette on Tuesday became the first Arlington County representative elected president of the Virginia Municipal League (VML).

Fisette unveiled "Go Green Virginia," a VML initiative to inform, encourage and support local governments' efforts to put in place practical strategies that are both economically viable and environmentally responsible, in his speech to VML's Annual Conference in James City County.

"In the coming year, the League will focus on energy conservation and environmental protection," Fisette said. "Through 'Go Green Virginia' we will recognize communities that take innovative steps to reduce energy usage and promote sustainability."

Initiative encourages friendly competition

Fisette outlined a six-point plan that included the following elements:

• Green Government Challenge: competition to encourage Virginia's cities, towns and counties to put in place environmental policies and take practical actions that reduce carbon emissions generated by local government operations and buildings. Participants who earn 100 "green points" will earn VML's certification that they are a "Green Government." The top three jurisdictions, within three population brackets, will receive special public recognition at the 2008 VML Annual Conference. (This idea was modeled after the "Green Living Challenge devised by Arlingtonians for a Clean Environment.)
• Ad hoc advisory committee: eight to 12 participants, including local elected officials and non-profit experts will be appointed to help guide the initiative.
• "Best practices" regional forums: VML will sponsor four or five public gatherings across the state to educate and provide a venue for local governments to exchange ideas and information on successful programs.
• Best practices" Green Book: VML will survey members and catalog proven programs and practices used in communities across the state to promote sustainability.
• Monthly column: in VML's magazine, to further the initiative.
• Additional support for VML: for targeted environmental legislative action.

"The interest among our constituents and across America in addressing global warming is palpable, and has led to major initiatives at NACO (National Association of Counties), NLC (National League of Cities, the Conference of Mayors and NGA (National Governors Association)," Fisette said.

Background

Established in 1905, VML is a statewide, non-partisan association of city, town and county governments whose mission is to improve and assist local governments through legislative advocacy, research, education and other services. Its membership includes all 39 cities in Virginia, 156 towns and 12 mostly urban counties. For more information about VML, visit their website.

Jay Fisette, who served as president-elect of VML in 2006-2007, was elected president for a one-year term on Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2007 at VML's Annual Conference in James City County. He also has served as an at-large member of VML's 13-member governing Executive Committee and as a member of its Legislative Committee.

Fisette has served on the Arlington County Board since November 1997 and was its Chairman in 2001 and 2005. His biography is available on the County website.

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Arlington, Va., is a world-class urban community that was originally part of the "10-mile square" parcel of land surveyed in 1791 to be the Nation's Capital. It is the geographically smallest self-governing county in the United States, occupying slightly less than 26 square miles. Known for its urban villages and transit-oriented development, Arlington maintains a rich variety of stable neighborhoods, quality schools and enlightened land use. In 2002, the county was the first recipient of the Environmental Protection Agency's highest award for "Smart Growth." Home to some of the most influential organizations in the world - including the Pentagon - Arlington stands out as one of America's preeminent places to live, visit and do business.

Last Modified: October 17, 2007

For more information, visit http://www.arlingtonva.us or call Bonnie Parker at 703-228-3882 (voice), 703-228-4743 (TTY) or e-mail Bparker@arlingtonva.us.