Candidates split on municipal electric utility and timeline for carbon neutrality

Energy policy and climate implementation were major topics at the Ward 5 forum. Cornell said she supports the city's Sustainable Energy Utility and renewable efforts, and applauded city programs (including rebates and geothermal pilots) that aim to reduce resident energy costs. "The SEU represents Ann Arbor living its values," she said, and she rejected the municipal‑utility ballot proposal on financial‑risk grounds.

Monroe said he also supports the SEU and favors the fastest feasible transition to renewables but wants additional study before pursuing municipalization. "The ballot initiative for A2PT simply creates a board that will help us understand if this is feasible," he said, adding that a second feasibility study is warranted before committing to full municipal ownership.

Both candidates addressed the city's A20 carbon neutrality target for 2030. Cornell highlighted the sustainability commission and incremental measures — tree canopy protection, transportation improvements and converting municipal fleets — while Monroe called for a detailed Office of Sustainability and Innovation road map with tangible milestones and emphasized mass transit investment.

On the green rental housing ordinance that took effect in January 2026, Cornell said the city provides free assessments and rebates to reduce tenant impacts and that the ordinance advances tenant rights; Monroe said incentives for landlords will be important to avoid passing compliance costs to renters.

No formal city action occurred during the forum; both candidates said they favor accelerating decarbonization while balancing fiscal prudence and resident protections.