​Across the nation, people in both red and blue states are realizing that modernizing our communities with 100% clean and renewable energy will help create jobs and boost local economies. Cities like Aspen, CO, Greensburg, KS, and Burlington, VT, have already achieved 100% clean energy.

Solar prices have rapidly declined in the past five years. Renewable energy is already the fastest-growing source of new U.S. electricity generation and is a major U.S. employer with 3.3. million Americans now working in the industry. Solar installer and wind technician are the two fastest growing jobs in America. Clean energy jobs offer higher wages than the national average, and are widely available to workers without college degrees, according to new Brookings Institution research.

In a recent national survey of U.S. adults, 83% of respondents said they support a goal of 100% clean energy. Since 2016 over 165 cities and counties (including the City of Sarasota) and 7 states have passed 100% clean energy commitments. Because of these commitments 25% of Americans now live in a community that has pledged to provide clean energy, good paying jobs and a healthy environment and economy for its citizens.

By signing this petition, I add my voice to the majority and convey to the leadership of Sarasota County that it is time to pass a resolution that establishes time-bound goals to achieve 100% clean energy for all county residents and businesses.