1:15 pm. – 2:15 pm.
Breakout Sessions
Stakeholder buy-in does not always equate to the same support from the general public. For some Central Ohioans, an insight2050 approach is the obvious way to sustainably accommodate the region’s anticipated population growth. But for others, valid lived experiences and complicated perceptions about gentrification have tainted topics like density and revitalization. Community buy-in is an integral part of the insight2050 initiative and can only be gained through trust. But building trust takes time, and development shifts happen quickly. This breakout session is intended to be an honest, constructive conversation about the inclusivity of Central Ohio’s approach to development, and how the region can move forward from a history of structural inequalities to a socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable future that is truly accessible to every Central Ohioan.
Trailmix! Making the Case for More sponsored by Murphy Epson
In 2018 Central Ohio Greenways developed a bold vision to add 500 more miles of high-quality regional trails to the existing network of 230 trail miles. Learn how data experts, advocates, public officials and private funders are making the case to rapidly fund and build these trails. Panelists will discuss how data-focused efforts prioritized trail projects based on potential positive impacts on public health, the environment, social equity and the economy – and how the session participants can help spread the word. By prioritizing and communicating the benefits of new trails, these innovative leaders are accelerating the pace of building this bold, timely and essential Regional Trail Vision.
House Bill 6 Redux : An Uncertain Future for Ohio’s Energy Standards sponsored by Kegler, Brown, Hill + Ritter
The events that have shaped 2020 have been unexpected and tumultuous. Energy policy in the state of Ohio has matched the volatility of the year. This summer, we learned of the corrupt actions that allegedly transpired to pass House Bill 6 – a bill that makes Ohio electricity consumers subsidize two nuclear power plants, and two coal-burning power plants – and protect it from a statewide referendum. Hear from a group of bipartisan state legislators leading the charge to repeal and potentially replace House Bill 6.
Rivers Run Through Us: Reconnecting People to Waterways
Metro Atlanta is home to many great natural treasures, such as the Chattahoochee, Flint, and South Rivers, but access to these waterways in many areas is limited. In this session, hear from regional experts about three different initiatives that are all leveraging strong partnerships with a similar goal – reconnecting people to waterways through collaborative, community-based conservation to meet social equity and environmental objectives. The Chattahoochee RiverLands, Finding the Flint, and South River Forest projects are at different stages, but all aim to reconnect the community to the natural environment by creating new trail networks and parks near rivers and greenspaces, while preserving these vital natural resources.
Weathering the Storm for Home Weatherization
This session explores the recent disruptions to home energy efficiency program delivery due to the pandemic, how practices and programs are evolving to meet the challenges, and the critical partnerships that help make the work possible. These programs are more important than ever for increasing the safety and comfort of the home while reducing household energy costs. Eliminating hazardous gas leaks and improving ventilation for better indoor air quality means a healthier living environment, and making energy efficient upgrades means lowering household energy costs for low-income and recently unemployed residents. Not to mention, energy consumption has shifted to the home during the pandemic when many offices and schools remain closed, underscoring the value of home energy efficiency programs. Learn how these programs positively impact our communities, how you and your organization can help promote participation in the programs, and how they are being delivered safely to residents who can benefit the most.
