Governor’s Task Force on Climate Change Seeks Public Input

Gov. Tony Evers’ Task Force on Climate Change is calling for public input as it begins planning policy recommendations for the governor ahead of the 2021-23 biennial budget. The task force will hold virtual listening sessions for members of the public that will cover a variety of climate-crisis issues and provide opportunities to share comments and recommendations. 

“The Governor’s Task Force on Climate Change is made up of leaders from various industries and communities, but we cannot do this work alone,” said Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, who chairs the task force. “Input from the public will be vital to developing recommendations that both reflect the will of the people and are informed by our diverse and knowledgeable communities.”

John Hermanson, of the Door County chapter of the Citizens Climate Lobby, said that participation in the meetings is a great opportunity for Door County residents to become active in supporting legislation for more sustainable practices at the state level. He also said it’s a chance for the public to become educated about how climate change is exhibiting its effects locally.

“The science is saying that there is a connection between climate change and water levels,” Hermanson said. “In Door County, we like our beaches; we like our shorelines; and we like our homes and businesses that are going underwater.”

Hermanson also said that small-particle pollution from urban areas elsewhere in the state negatively affects Door County’s air quality.

“A lot of people think we’re immune from air-quality issues, but we’re not,” he said.

The Wisconsin Farmers Union held a training for the virtual sessions during which potential participants learned to tell climate-change stories that move others to action by drawing upon personal experiences and values.

The virtual listening sessions will be held June 23, 6-8 pm; June 27, 12-2 pm; July 7, 6-8 pm; July 9, 6-8 pm; and July 15, 6-8 pm. (Session dates and times are subject to change.) 

In addition to these virtual listening sessions, members of the public are welcome to submit written comments and recommendations – and read the latest information – at ClimateChange.wi.gov.