Vernon Recognized As A 'Thriving And Resilient Municipality' By Statewide Organization

VERNON, CT — The town of Vernon has achieved gold certification from Sustainable CT, a voluntary program that recognizes "thriving and resilient municipalities."

Vernon earned Sustainable CT’s silver certification in June 2022 and November 2019. At the time, silver certification was the highest achievement possible.

To be eligible for Sustainable CT certification, municipalities complete a range of sustainability actions, from community building to enhancing local economies and fostering arts and cultural institutions. Vernon also achieved Climate Leader designation for its efforts to use renewable energy, enhance the efficiency of energy infrastructure, and to be good stewards of the environment.

"So much of what Sustainable CT urges communities to do is compatible with our goals of creating a
community where people want to live and work," Vernon Mayor Dan Champagne said. "I always urge our departments to serve our residents efficiently and effectively, and in ways that foster innovation,
collaboration and inclusiveness."

Sustainable CT reviewers recognized Vernon for a variety of achievements, such as creating an open space inventory and efforts to expand town-owned open space, the Live Here Love Trees program to educate property owners and add trees in the Rockville area, invasive plant management practices, watershed management efforts, providing free rides to the Vernon and Ellington farmers markets for people lacking transportation, and for sharing information residents can use to enhance energy efficiency in their homes.

Shaun Gately, Vernon’s director of development services, and his department led the effort to meet the gold certification requirements. All town departments played a role taking actions to help Vernon achieve gold certification.

Vernon joins Fairfield, West Hartford and Glastonbury in achieving gold certification.

"The Sustainable CT process is difficult, but rewarding in that it helps us look for ways to ensure we are making information and programs accessible to as many people in our community as possible,” Gately said. " It also gives us an added perspective to consider as we carry out our daily duties.”

Said Sustainable CT Executive Director Jessica LeClair, "We’re thrilled to celebrate Vernon for its impressive achievement. "Its certification and climate leadership exemplify the dedication and innovative spirit that are essential for building a sustainable future. We congratulate Vernon for its hard work and commitment to making Connecticut a better place to live, work, and visit."