April 24, 2009

The mayor said the group would focus on new initiatives involving alternative energy and utilize government grants directed toward environmentally sound development.

"This task force will take us well into the future," he said.

Langford claimed his former administration saved about $1.2 million in energy costs at the Public Works building through minor conservation efforts, including replacing light bulbs.

"If we can do that much with little changes like that, there's a lot more we can do now," he said.

The mayor said the task force would also focus on providing information to residents about utilizing renewable energy to save personal money.

The task force is expected to be formed after the June primary election, but before the end of the year. It will consist of city residents who have an interest in changing the city's environment and have expertise in alternative energy, the mayor said.

Councilman Bruce Ward is partnering with the administration in its initiative and flanked Langford Thursday. Last year, Ward went public with his own proposal to develop a city wind farm similar to the county's farm, which he originally hoped to get on last November's ballot.

Ward said he expects his wind farm ideas to be considered by the task force, which could include development at the city's Public Works building and Duck Island.

But the councilman said there are many other ideas to be explored in the city, including solar energy.

"Suppose you get a tax bill, and there's one line that's an alternative energy credit," Ward said. "That's what we're working toward."

Catherine Ward, a Cherry Hill attorney specializing in environmental law, also briefed both men. Catherine Ward said she discussed some federal funding options with the administration to get them started, but was not retained by the city, nor would she be part of the task force.