I'm happy to report that Forest Grove has become the thirteenth city in Oregon (out of more than 800 across the nation) to endorse the US Mayors Climate Protection Agreement - thereby making a public commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.  While the Agreement is not binding, it is one more way for cities to show their good intentions, and provides citizens with a tool to hold their local governments accountable.  Forest Grove's decision follows its approval of a new Vision Statement, "Goal 1" of which is to "Promote safe, livable, and sustainable neighborhoods and a prosperous dynamic green city."  And not long ago, Forest Grove became the first city in Oregon to officially oppose all Liquefied Natural Gas terminals and pipelines in the state.  Even to a skeptic like me, it's becoming more and more apparent that this city is serious about going green. 

Forest Grove also joins Beaverton and Hillsboro as the third city in Washington County to endorse the Mayors Climate Agreement.  This might just give a little extra ammunition to citizens who suggest that perhaps Washington County itself should endorse the county-level version of the same document - the Cool Counties Declaration.  If you live in Washington County, ask the Board of Commissioners to consider doing just that - SIGN THE PETITION TODAY!

-Nick