Newport honored for environmental efforts

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The city of Newport’s steps to increase efficiency and reduce energy use have earned it a state environmental designation.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency last month named Newport a GreenStep city, recognizing the city for its efforts reduce its environmental impact through community outreach and more sustainable practices.

City officials applied to the GreenStep Cities program in April, laying out what it had done to improve sustainability in Newport. Renee Helm, the city staff member who coordinated the GreenStep application, said those efforts include things like a tiered water rate to encourage conservation, tree preservation ordinances and a park and trail plan to offer alternative modes of transportation.

“It’s a good recognition for the city,” Mayor Tim Geraghty said.

Despite the recognition, Newport officials said last week the city is still seeking ways to be more environmentally friendly.

City Administrator Brian Anderson said the city has purchased a new fuel-efficient squad car. And, officials are considering installing solar-powered lighting fixtures at a new park building being constructed this year at the Bailey School Forest.

Helm also said the city is planning to complete an energy audit of Newport City Hall and the city’s two fire stations.

Started in 2010, the MPCA’s GreenStep Cities program aims to encourage cities to cut costs and reduce energy consumption through the adoption of best practice measures that increase efficiency. Newport joins neighboring Cottage Grove — which was named a GreenStep city in December 2010 — and 46 other cities in being recognized by the state.

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