County Executive Adam Bello urges Monroe County municipalities to seek funding through the new Community Climate Action Fund pilot program

Monroe County, New York – Monroe County is taking another step toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions by introducing a new funding opportunity aimed at helping local governments turn climate goals into action.

During his recent State of the County Address, Monroe County Executive Adam Bello announced the launch of the Community Climate Action Fund, a pilot grant program designed to support municipalities that are working on projects intended to lower emissions and improve environmental sustainability. The initiative will provide matching grants of up to $10,000 for eligible projects that align with the county’s Climate Action Plan Phase II.

The new program reflects Monroe County’s broader effort to address climate challenges beyond county government operations. While the first phase of the Climate Action Plan concentrated on reducing emissions from county-owned facilities and services, the second phase expands that focus to include residents, businesses, nonprofit organizations and local municipalities across the county.

Officials say the funding can be used for a wide range of projects. Nearly 100 different actions identified within the Climate Action Plan qualify for support, covering areas such as transportation improvements, building efficiency, housing initiatives, energy consumption reduction and sustainable materials management. Municipal leaders are also being encouraged to collaborate with neighboring communities and local stakeholders to maximize the impact of proposed projects.

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County Executive Bello emphasized that the program builds on successful environmental efforts already underway in Monroe County and will allow those benefits to reach a wider audience.

“Building off of the success of our School Food Waste Diversion Program, the Community Climate Action Fund will enable Monroe County to reduce greenhouse gas emissions on a larger scale by funding projects in our municipalities,” said County Executive Bello. “Thanks to the innovation of our Department of Environmental Services we are introducing new ways to reduce waste and protect our environment. I encourage local municipalities to take part as we continue to advance Phase II of our Climate Action Plan.”

The announcement has also received strong support from county legislators who have long advocated for environmental initiatives and sustainability planning.

Legislator HughesSmith, who chairs the Environment and Public Works Committee, described the new grant program as an important milestone in the county’s ongoing efforts to address climate-related concerns. HughesSmith noted that local governments have a critical role to play in preparing communities for future environmental challenges and that county support can help accelerate meaningful action.

“Climate action has been a cornerstone of my work in the Legislature, and I am proud to have helped advance this initiative. I am grateful for the partnership of County Executive Bello and Legislator Baynes in bringing this effort to fruition,” said Legislator HughesSmith, Chair of the Environment and Public Works Committee. “The effects of climate change will be felt by every member of our community, and addressing those challenges requires both strong leadership and collective action. By investing in resilience and sustainability today, we can better protect our residents and strengthen our communities for the future. Monroe County has an important role to play in supporting and empowering local climate initiatives, and this new grant funding represents a significant step forward. I am proud to see this vision become a reality.”

Support for the initiative also comes from Legislator Baynes, Chair of the Recreation and Education Committee, who highlighted the significance of maintaining environmental investments despite increasing financial pressures facing local governments.

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“In a tightening budget environment, Monroe County demonstrates its commitment to climate action initiatives by funding the actions of our local governments,” said Legislator Baynes, Chair of the Recreation and Education Committee.

County officials believe the Community Climate Action Fund will help transform climate planning into tangible local projects. By providing direct financial assistance, the program aims to encourage municipalities to explore innovative solutions that reduce emissions while improving quality of life for residents.

The funding opportunity arrives at a time when communities across the country are seeking practical ways to address environmental concerns while balancing economic realities. Monroe County leaders hope the program will inspire local governments to pursue projects that not only advance sustainability goals but also create long-term benefits for neighborhoods, businesses and future generations.

Applications for the Community Climate Action Fund are now being accepted. Municipalities interested in participating must submit their proposals by 4:00 p.m. on June 17, 2026. County officials encourage eligible communities to review the available funding opportunities and identify projects that can contribute to the goals outlined in the county’s Climate Action Plan Phase II.