This is a Moms Clean Air Force exclusive interview with Columbus, Ohio Councilwoman Elizabeth Brown:
What is unique about protecting your Columbus’ resources?
What I love about Columbus’ efforts, is that we have programs to effect change at all levels – in your own backyard or in the operations of some of our largest energy users. Our GreenSpot program makes environmental responsibility accessible for all residents by giving them a toolbox to live more sustainably. Equally so, Columbus has become a natural logistics hub for many business so there is an opportunity for central Ohio to continue to grow in renewable use.
As a mother are you concerned about the effects of climate change on your children and the children of your city?
As the mother of one (and another on the way) and already seeing climate change manifest through environmental disasters, it’s very concerning to think of what my children’s futures will look like. The refugees of my daughter’s generation will be climate refugees, fleeing natural disasters and prompting the global community to confront the very real economic and logistical consequences.
Why is a bipartisan effort so important, and how can efforts to address clean air and climate change be achieved in our current political climate?
Bipartisan cooperation is the only way to get things done! We cannot allow one side to characterize climate action as a “pet issue” or pretend it is a binary choice between being business friendly or not. Our efforts to impact climate change today drive how well our economy can compete tomorrow.
Is there anything you’d like to share with Moms Clean Air Force’s one million members?
Just my deep gratitude. Without friends, neighbors, and citizens becoming advocates for issues they care about, we cannot make change. Thank you for living your values and speaking up to elected officials about ways we can do better.
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Elizabeth Brown was elected in November of 2015 to Columbus City Council. Brown has prior experience in economic development, nonprofit service, and state government. Brown served as an economic development manager to the City of Columbus, worked with middle school students to improve literacy as a City Year Americorps member, and has been published in New York Magazine and National Public Radio affiliate WOSU.
Brown and her husband Patrick Katzenmeyer are active members of the community. Brown is on the board of The Center for Balanced Living, a mental health treatment center that specializes in eating disorders. Katzenmeyer serves as the treasurer to the board of Wild Goose Creative, a local arts organization. They live in Columbus’ Victorian Village neighborhood, along with their daughter Carolyn.
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