
Former Pasadena Mayor Rick Cole
[UPDATED] The Angeles Chapter of the Sierra Club has endorsed former Pasadena Mayor Rick Cole for the District 2 seat on the City Council in the upcoming March 5 election, according to a statement issued by Cole’s campaign.
Morgan Goodwin, Senior Director of the Sierra Club Angeles Chapter, is a quoted as citing Cole’s extensive record of leadership in advancing environmental sustainability in Pasadena and Southern California.
Goodwin also highlighted Cole’s commitment to implementing renewable energy, promoting water conservation, and advocating for urban infill practices.
“Rick Cole has a long and consistent record of leadership on making cities livable and environmentally sustainable,” Goodwin said. “In Pasadena and across Southern California, he’s earned the respect of the environmental movement for putting in place common sense solutions to promote renewable energy, water conservation and watershed management.”
The Sierra Club, founded in California in 1892 and boasting over one million members nationwide, maintains 13 active chapters in California alone. The Angeles Chapter is the largest segment of the organization and includes hundreds of Pasadena residents.
Reflecting on his upbringing in Pasadena, Cole said he has been committed to environmental stewardship throughout his adult life. He said it’s imperative to transition to renewable energy sources amidst the looming threat of climate change.
Cole is a member of the Steering Committee of Pasadena 100, the group that has spearheaded the goal of 100% carbon-free sources of energy for Pasadena Water and Power’s electricity grid by 2030, which the Pasadena City Council approved a year ago.
“Throughout my career in public service in Pasadena and beyond, I’ve worked to ensure we protect our natural resources,” Cole said in the statement. “Now given the threat of climate change, I’ve championed a shift to renewable energy sources – which are now cheaper than fossil fuels.”
Cole’s campaign has also earned the support of other sectors of the community, including local business, labor, environmental, education, and neighborhood leaders. Previously, Cole served for 12 years representing District 2 on the City Council, including terms as Vice Mayor and Mayor.
Cole currently serves on Pasadena’s Planning Commission, advocating for zoning reforms to foster sustainable housing development and championing initiatives aimed at revitalizing North Lake.
To learn more about Rick Cole, visit www.rickcoleforcouncil.com.