The City of Beacon has been recognized as a Climate Smart Community for the second time by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Achieving silver status, the highest level of certification, Beacon joins the City of Kingston and the Village of Hastings-on-Hudson in earning recertification in 2025. The designation will remain in effect for five years.

Beacon first received this recognition in 2020. Since then, the city has implemented several initiatives to maintain its status. These include conducting greenhouse gas emissions inventories and developing an action plan to reduce emissions from government operations through 2030. The city has also renovated its central firehouse to use geothermal heating and cooling, transitioned its vehicle fleet to battery-electric cars and trucks, and undertaken methane mitigation at the former Dennings Point landfill.

Mayor Lee Kyriacou emphasized the city's commitment to climate action, stating, "Since taking office in 2020, my administration has prioritized climate action at all levels of our operations." The city's efforts align with broader state goals, as the Climate Smart Communities program supports local governments in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing community resilience.

According to Mid Hudson News, the program recognizes municipalities that plan and implement actions to reduce emissions and improve resilience. Beacon's recertification highlights its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and positions it as a leader in climate action within the Hudson Valley.

Jeff Stevens