NORTH MANKATO — The North Mankato City Council is set to vote on the adoption of a comprehensive Climate Action Plan during its meeting Monday.
The plan outlines a long-term solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase resilience to climate change impacts and support sustainable development across the city.
According to city documents, the plan was developed over an 11-month period in partnership with climate consulting firm paleBLUEdot and was funded by a 2024 Local Climate Action Planning Grant from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.
More than 200 residents were engaged in the planning process through two public meetings, community surveys and involvement from a 29-member planning team.
The plan is built on research-based assessments, including a climate action baseline study, climate vulnerability assessment and a citywide greenhouse gas emissions inventory. It also includes analyses of tree canopy coverage, carbon sequestration and renewable energy potential.
Survey data showed strong community support for the city to act on climate change: 68% of respondents favored preparing for climate impacts and reducing greenhouse gas emissions while 62% supported North Mankato taking a leadership role in climate action, and 41% of respondents expressed extreme concern about climate change.
The plan sets a target “to reduce citywide GHG emissions by 55%, below 2020 levels by 2040” with a goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2050. The plan focuses on six key sectors — water and wastewater, greenspace and ecosystems, economy, transportation and land use, buildings and energy, and waste management.
Within these sectors, the plan outlines 22 strategies and 61 specific actions to be implemented over the next 15 years. According to documents provided by the city, the actions are aimed at improving environmental outcomes while also delivering economic benefits to the community.
The city estimates that full implementation of the plan could result in a cumulative $44.2 million in net cost savings by 2040. The transportation sector alone could see savings of more than $34 million, while buildings and energy could yield over $6 million in savings. Additional savings are projected through waste reduction efforts.
The plan is also expected to enhance economic development by signaling the city’s readiness to partner with businesses focused on sustainability, supporting job growth in green industries and attracting investment from companies aligning with climate goals.
The resolution directs city staff to use the plan as a guiding framework and review progress periodically for effectiveness and alignment with evolving practices.