The Carbon Neutral movement is a way to brand and differentiate Hermosa in a way that attracts business, tourists, investment and like minded residents.  It can not only help the city increase revenue, but through the lens of carbon neutrality the city can reduce costs.  Organizations are understanding that CN is the new proxy for efficiency in not only buildings but operations as well. 

         Being first brings with it a sense of urgency that will motivate us to maximize our resources.  The city is in year two of a 3 year grant for $410K to do a carbon neutral overlay to the general plan and about to solidify its strategic goals for the year.  We must act now to focus that money and strategy on being the first carbon neutral city. 

         This Carbon Neutral movement is entirely consistent with our culture as Hermosans.  We've always been the leader in what's cool.  As innovators and iconoclasts we have championed west coast jazz at the lighthouse, the beat movement at the Either Or Bookstore, surfing, skateboarding, volleyball, punk rock, beach tennis.  Carbon Neutral is the next logical progression for the innovative Hermosa Beach. 

         Hermosa Beach is uniquely positioned to be the first Carbon Neutral city.  It is an ideal test bed for all kinds of new technologies.  Because of our town's small size, advantageous climate, lack of heavy industry and disruptive culture we can be first and take the benefits that come with it.  

         This Carbon Neutral movement will allow us to renew our brand and reinvent city operations; but without your support we will be lose this unique opportunity and our ability to be competitive with our larger and wealthier beach cities to our north and south.