Building a more sustainable future requires both creativity and collaboration. Snohomish County Public Utility District is deepening its commitment to environmental stewardship by launching an accessible platform for public engagement. Go Sustainable!, aimed at turning community ideas into tangible action.
This new initiative offers residents a clear channel to share suggestions, seek guidance, and collaborate on projects that advance sustainability across the region. From Camano Island to Edmonds, the utility emphasizes working hand-in-hand with the communities it serves to meet shared environmental goals.
Participants can submit proposals or questions covering a broad range of topics, including energy efficiency, water conservation, habitat restoration, electric transportation, and renewable energy development, through an intuitive online portal. Once received, submissions are routed to relevant PUD teams based on subject matter and feasibility.
The program prioritizes straightforward communication. If an idea aligns with current offerings, customers are connected directly with the appropriate division. In instances where proposals lie beyond the utility’s statutory scope, funding capacity, or operational focus, staff provide clear explanations and, when possible, point individuals toward alternative resources that may support their objectives.
Customers receive a confirmation upon submission and an initial response from a PUD specialist within one month. More complex suggestions may undergo additional review, with ongoing updates provided throughout. A final decision or update is issued no later than 90 days after intake for items requiring deeper analysis.
Internally, submissions are assessed by a multidisciplinary team of technical experts, who identify potential improvements, new initiatives, and strategic opportunities. Final determinations are made under the oversight of the PUD’s Environmental Stewardship Committee. The utility also tracks recurring themes in public input to shape future programs and long-term planning priorities.
As a locally owned utility, Snohomish County PUD sees community input as essential to advancing regional environmental targets. Go Sustainable! serves as a bridge between citizen concerns and the utility’s technical expertise and resources, reinforcing the belief that collective effort strengthens sustainability outcomes.
Residents are invited to explore the program page at snopud.com and complete the online submission form to get involved.
A separate community event, the Community Energy Run, is also approaching. This family-oriented 5K, scheduled for Saturday, October 3, from 9 a.m. to noon at the PUD Water Operations Center in Lake Stevens, will support the Community Energy Fund, which assists households facing difficulty covering their utility bills. Registration is open at run.snopud.com, with a participation fee of $50.