When was the last time you heard an elected official in Boca Raton discussing environmental issues? Yes, Mayor Susan Whelchel did campaign on a platform of environmental sensitivity, but what specific actions are taking place?

To the City's credit, there is a program for waste water reclamation. However, this is the only "green" item on the City website. What is the City doing about low energy light bulbs, xeriscape landscaping to conserve water, and promoting bike paths to cut down on automobile traffic?

My research found an article that said the City purchased four hybrid vehicles in 2005 to ferry police personnel around town. Does the City still own these automobiles and are there plans in the works to purchase other fuel efficient vehicles? Does the City have any plans to build Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design ("LEED") certified buildings? If the City proceeds with its proposal to build a second multimillion dollar library will it be LEED certified?

If the City is acting in an environmentally responsible manner, it has not made the local citizens aware of its actions. While is it everyone's individual responsibility to be environmentally sensitive, the City should be leading the effort from the top down. Use this Earth Day as a platform for letting elected officials know that you care about the environment and that you want Boca Raton to be a "green" city.

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