Advocates press county to restore energy audit and sustainability manager removed from 2027 budget

David Gilbert, speaking for Guilford Clean Power Now, told the board that commissioners had previously directed the county manager to include an energy audit of county facilities and a manager of sustainability, resilience and renewable energy in the 2027 budget but that those items were later removed.

"Your action in removing those items from the budget sends a message that you are not making a clean energy future for Guilford County a priority," Gilbert said, reminding the board of a draft energy policy that includes a transition to 100% clean county operations by 2050. He said more than 40 advocates have appeared at board meetings pressing for the policy and urged commissioners to follow through on commitments.

County staff acknowledged receipt of public input and told the board they are seeking budget options within available resources. The comment was recorded during the public-comment segment and no formal vote or budget amendment was taken at the meeting.