Sustainable CT

Marlborough has become one of 131 CT towns to participate in a voluntary certification program to recognize thriving and resilient Connecticut municipalities. As an independently funded, grassroots municipal effort, Sustainable CT provides planning assistance to municipalities and offers a wide-ranging menu of Best Practices. 

Municipalities choose Sustainable CT actions, implement them, and earn points toward certification as a Sustainable Community. Most importantly, Sustainable CT provides opportunities for grant funding to help communities promote economic well-being and enhance equity while respecting the finite capacity of the natural environment. 

Examples of action items include thriving local economics, good stewardship of land and natural resources, vibrant and creative cultural ecosystems, renewable and efficient energy infrastructure and operations, optimal health and wellness, and healthy, efficient, and diverse housing. We encourage you to learn more at sustainablect.org. 

ESTABLISHED: The Sustainable Marlborough Committee was established in 2022 and resides under the Town's Planning Commission.

STATUS: Marlborough is currently working toward becoming a Sustainable CT Bronze Certified Municipality.

CHARGE/DUTIES: The committee is comprised of members from the community, and advises the town’s Departments and various Boards and Commissions on how best to advance the principles of sustainability, equity, and environmental stewardship. Sustainable Marlborough Committee is further charged with fostering community support and pursuing continued growth and recognition through ongoing certification at the highest level developed by Sustainable CT.

MEMBERSHIP: Membership includes one higher-level municipal staff member, one elected official, the Planning Commission, and numerous community members who are appointed by the Board of Selectmen. 

LENGTH OF TERM: At the discretion of the Board of Selectmen

MEETING DATE/TIME/PLACE: Although a regular schedule of meetings has not yet been determined, the committee has been meeting bi-weekly at 7:00 p.m. at the Town Hall. Meetings are noticed in advance of meetings.

In addition to at least one initiative from each of the 12 required action categories, the major project in this phase of the program falls under Encourage an Equitable and Just Food System. 

How can you participate? 

1. Currently, the Marlborough Sustainable Team is seeking community input on Food Security. They are asking residents to fill out a short survey which can be downloaded from this link. The purpose of this survey is to understand the extent to which Marlborough residents are aware of various services that provide food to residents in need, and to determine the extent to which there is unmet needs for food assistance. Once completed, please drop off your survey in the box in the foyer of the town hall by June 16th. 
2. A public forum will be held on June 28th as a way to engage the community and create an opportunity for dialogue. A presentation will cover a number of topics such as an overview of what food insecurity is, services that are available at the federal, state, and local level, our findings regarding food insecurity in Marlborough, and the results of the survey. Additionally, an interactive discussion around ideas and resident interest for community gardens and learning about the benefits of composting. Please mark your calendar as more information will be forthcoming. 

For more information or to get involved, please contact Peter Hughes at planner@marlboroughct.net .