Becoming a Carbon Neutral City: Lancaster, CA Mayor Rex Parris to Speak in Bend

Rex Parris is the popular three-term mayor of Lancaster, California, where he has put his city well on the way towards becoming a carbon neutral, zero net energy community. Parris will be in Bend on June 18th and 19th for several presentations about how his city has successfully developed a proactive strategy to reduce its contribution to climate change while providing substantial local economic benefits, including jobs.

“We all may feel a bit helpless when we confront the facts of climate change, especially the projections of how challenging life may become for our grandchildren,” says Mike Riley, executive director of The Environmental Center of Bend. “Lancaster, CA, offers an inspiring and practical example of making a real difference at the community level, a difference that’s good for the environment and the economy.”

Parris’ visit will include presentations to the Bend City Council, the City Club of Central Oregon and a free public presentation sponsored by The Environmental Center. Specific event details include:

Wednesday June 18:
Bend City Council Work Session, 6:30 to 7:00 pm, City Hall, open to the public

Thursday June 19:
City Club of Central Oregon, 11:30 am, St Charles Medical Center, Conference Center.
Pre-registration required. Register at www.cityclubco.org

Bend Community Center, 4 pm to 5:30 pm, 1036 NE 5th Street, Bend
(Corner of Greenwood and 5th). Free. Pre-registration is not required.

Learn more about Rex Parris and Lancaster, CA, from the New York Times.