School board, City Council forums to discuss climate change

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Candidates for Columbia's City Council and school board are set to participate in forums regarding energy and climate concerns.

Both forums will take place online, with the school board set to meet Monday and City Council on Thursday. Both events will start at 7 p.m.

All five school board candidates will participate, with four out of the six City Council candidates set to participate.

"This election comes at a critical time, as extreme weather events bring home the urgency of addressing the climate crisis," said Peaceworks Climate Educator Erica Ascani. "Columbia has adopted a Climate Action Plan, and now we are just beginning to implement it. Our public schools have yet to officially recognize and respond to this critical situation. It is essential for voters to know where the candidates stand on these climate and energy concerns," Ascani said.

Questions will revolve around energy, climate and environmental concerns. Organizers released the list of questions that will be asked of both City Hall and School Board candidates.

Links are also available for both the School Board and City Council forums for residents to be able to watch.