Are cities that are applying for Recovery dollars still open to new ideas?

Below is a question posed during the May 19 conference call that we couldn't get to on the call:

Given that cities must apply [for Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grants] by 6/25, do you feel that most cities are done with their planning and are looking to do analysis to support their ideas as opposed to looking for new ideas? - Sam Solar

Just a quick note to the person who asked about the approaching deadline and whether or not cities are still open to ideas. Definitely would depend on the state/city, but applicants do have the option (depending on their size) to submit an initial form and then submitting the full plan within 120 days. so my guess is many cities (I know it's true here in new bedford) are getting that initial application in right away and buying more time for the full plan.  - Kalia Lydgate, Massachusetts Green Jobs Coalition, New Bedford, MA

I think a good idea for greening up america is to have central offices that home owners go to that recommend green contractors and sub contractors who have been pre-screened.These workers would get the green bucks from  the goernment.And the homeowners get the tax credit.That way you know that home owners aren't getting taken by dubious,fly by night hacks who take ther money and run.You could send a consultant to inspect the home to see its "needs",not wants,unless the home owner can afford them.And it wouldn't be what the contractor thinks the person needs but what actually needs to be done.

 I just watched NOW on PBS channel 2 and saw a Brilliant man named Van jones, I believe that was his name.And he was saying how a dollar spent on green jobs is a dollar that works in many ways.So the dollar pays for let's say insulating a house.The same dollar goes for the pay for the person doing the work,energy conservation,and also keeping people out of prison by employing them.It would also be responsible for future benefits, children today will want to grow up to be green workers.We could plant an organic garden at every school in this country so children can see where fruits and vegies really come from.Do you know some people don't know potatoes come from a plant and that the potato grows underground?We could plant some of these gardens on the roofs of schools and community building to cut down on the heat Islands in our cities and towns. I want to be part of this future,Michael A. Pagel

Is anyone else either working for or with a city to develop their plan for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant? I would love to compare notes and brainstorm if possible. In New Bedford, we are looking at a few different programs including a small Green Enterprise Zone, replacing LED lighting and capturing the savings for other programs, a revolving loan fund for weatherization, business incubation for contractors etc. to build up the industry so it will be sustainable beyond the ARRA and programs to do public education and engagement. Would love to not be reinventing the wheel so give a shout out if you're interested in collaborating and/or sharing perspectives.

Kalia

Founder, MA Green Jobs Coalition

Director of New Bedford Green Jobs, Green Economy Initiative/City of New Bedford Mayoral Fellow