Curbing waste, containing storm water and clearing light pollution rank as Highland Park’s priorities in going even greener for the City Council's Sustainability Strategic Plan for 2016.
For its Sustainability Plan, the city chose to place its trust in sustainability consultant Quercus Consulting, a woman-owned business that is collaborating with the Chicago-based Bluestem Communications.
After initial research identified waste management, storm water management and light pollution as the top three issues of concern to citizens, the city took action by upgrading services and public awareness in those sectors.
Storm water strategies already in effect will continue, according to the city, which also plans to reduce its nighttime lighting and take other steps to mitigate light pollution.
The city’s new waste vendor, Lakeshore Recycling Systems, began its beat at the start of the year. Not only does it provide weekly recycling and trash services, but it also has contracted with the city to allow pick up of certain “bulky items” placed curbside for years to come. This spring, it will offer a system for organic waste disposal, including food scraps.
“As a community we do our utmost to provide and maintain sustainability practices,” Mayor Nancy Rotering said. “The city of Highland Park intends to make this process as easy as possible by providing programs and opportunities to inform the community on how each of us can make a difference. Working as a team, we can achieve our goal to become a more sustainable community.”
The city also recently updated its Facebook page to publicize efforts, posting “Highland Park! Don't forget that the City is doing its best to become a more sustainable community” and inviting the public to visit its website.
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