Mount Vernon has earned Silver-level recognition in the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission's (MORPC) Sustainable2050 initiative, becoming the first municipality in Knox County to join the program.
The City Council passed a resolution to participate, and MORPC confirmed the designation this month after evaluating Mount Vernon’s sustainability efforts. The city scored 71 points across five goals, with projects ranging from river restoration to bike-friendly programs.
Mayor Matt Starr said the recognition reflects Mount Vernon’s commitment to practical, community-driven sustainability.
“Stewardship really begins at home, and we are honored that the City has earned Silver Level recognition through MORPC’s Sustainable2050 Program,” Starr said. “We are also grateful to be in such good company with communities that are taking thoughtful, practical steps toward long-term sustainability.”
Starr added that the program is collaborative rather than prescriptive.
“MORPC has served as a true partner by helping Mount Vernon more clearly define a sustainability plan that works for our community, reflects our values, and builds on the good work already happening here,” he said. “This recognition gives us a strong foundation to continue moving forward.”
MORPC’s Director of Sustainability Brandi Whetstone praised the city’s leadership, noting the broader impact of its achievement.
“The City of Mount Vernon’s elevation to Silver status within the Sustainable2050 initiative demonstrates the powerful impact of local leadership in driving regional environmental progress,” Whetstone said.
She added that the city’s efforts highlight the long-term benefits of sustainability.
“When communities commit to actionable environmental priorities, they do more than protect our natural resources—they build healthier, more resilient neighborhoods and strengthen economic vitality for generations to come,” Whetstone said. “Mount Vernon’s dedication serves as a vital reminder that our collective sustainable future depends entirely on the concrete steps our cities take today.”
Mount Vernon’s projects include the Knox County Active Transportation Plan, the First Fridays Bike Valet, the Kokosing River Restoration, and infrastructure improvements such as the Mansfield Avenue Shared Use Path and Catherine Street Reconstruction. Recreational amenities like Captain Hunter’s Landing Splash Pad also contributed to the city’s score.
Sustainable2050 is a voluntary program offering technical assistance, collaboration, and recognition to Central Ohio communities. Members align local goals with MORPC’s Regional Sustainability Agenda and can earn tiered designations from Bronze to Platinum. Currently, 39 communities participate across MORPC’s 15-county region, with 21 certified at varying levels.
Mount Vernon’s Silver designation places it among Central Ohio’s leading voices for sustainability, signaling Knox County’s entry into the regional push for a greener future.
