Cottage Grove explores electric vehicle options and sustainable projects funding

Cottage Grove's Public Works, Properties, and Sustainability Committee is taking significant steps toward enhancing sustainability in the community, particularly regarding vehicle purchases and facility projects. During a recent meeting on July 9, 2025, committee members discussed the importance of exploring electric vehicle options for lighter-duty equipment, despite previous financial constraints. The committee emphasized the need to continually assess the viability of electric options whenever new purchases are considered.

In addition to vehicle discussions, the committee highlighted the potential benefits of investing in a leaf vacuum, similar to one used by the City of Madison. This equipment could help manage leaf debris in local drainage systems, contributing to cleaner lakes and addressing community concerns about leaf accumulation. Committee members expressed interest in pricing out this option to gauge public support for such a sustainable initiative.

The meeting also revisited previous discussions about integrating sustainability into facility projects. The committee agreed that any proposed facility project should include sustainability options for consideration by the village board. This approach aims to prioritize sustainability in the budgeting process, ensuring that at least one facility project is presented with sustainability in mind.

As the committee moves forward, they plan to investigate the number of electric vehicle charging stations available in Cottage Grove, which will inform future decisions about electric vehicle adoption. The ongoing discussions reflect a commitment to sustainability and responsiveness to community needs, setting the stage for actionable goals that align with the village's vision for a greener future.