MISSION VIEJO’S GREEN FUTURE

David Leckness Talks about Mission Viejo’s Green Initiatives

(Mission Viejo, Calif.) May 15, 2013 – Mission Viejo Solar Program Community Developer, Erin Lannon with Sullivan Solar Power and Dave Leckness, Councilmember for the City of Mission Viejo and local resident recently met for coffee to talk about Mission Viejo’s environmental and sustainability initiatives. Mission Viejo is a progressive city when it comes to educating residents about providing ample recreational areas for the community, as well as offering proactive solutions for conserving water and energy.

     When Council member Leckness was Mayor in 2009 he was able to take a bird’s eye view tour of Mission Viejo from the OC Sheriff’s helicopter. Seeing the city from another perspective showed Dave how many Mission Viejo residents had declared energy independence by installing solar on their homes. “Solar is cutting edge, I think every city should offer free solar permitting,” said Leckness, “As yourself where will you be in 20 years?  Because those 20 years will arrive, the question is where will you be in terms of solar? We (Mission Viejo) want to be cutting edge.” 
          
       Mission Viejo residents have the opportunity to take part in the solar movement through the Mission Viejo Solar Program. This Program is administered by Sullivan Solar Power, and offers residents the opportunity to get paid to get solar. Through this program residents are able to go solar for no upfront cost and receive up to $2,000 cash-back. The three-month initiative will come to a close on June 3, 2013.

      Mission Viejo has taken steps towards reducing the amount of water needed by planting, “Californian friendly” plants or native vegetation which can help conserve water and significantly reduce the amount of water needed. The new vegetation is being planted on Marguerite in front of the City Hall and Library. The city will be able to conserve water as well as create less pollution from run-off of pesticides, oil, or any other matter that will eventually end in the ocean.  

     If you are interested in learning more about Mission Viejo’s sustainability initiatives, visit http://cityofmissionviejo.org/DepartmentPage.aspx?id=3064. Homeowners who want to participate in the Mission Viejo Solar Program are encouraged to visit MissionViejoSolarProgram.org or call 1.800.SULLIVAN. The program will close on Monday, June 3, 2013 at 5:00 p.m.