A first-ring suburb of Minneapolis, Columbia Heights, Minnesota is continually working to become a more sustainable community. Many of the city’s qualities are already focused on green technology, resilience, sustainability, justice, and equality.
Sustainable
Green Technology
Solar panels are installed on municipal buildings. Residents, public works, and the police department all operate a growing number of electric vehicles.
Reduced Waste
Residents use extra large recycling bins, extra small garbage bins, and compost bins for food scraps and yard waste. All 3 bins are collected curbside. The city’s recycling center also accepts plastic bags, white styrofoam, motor oil, steel, large cardboard, and many other materials. Events use compostable plates, bowls, cups, and utensils. Items that need repair are kept out of landfills through community Fix-It clinics.
Earth-Friendly Practices
Yards, parks, schools, and municipal properties have native plants, rain gardens, and pollinator habitats. Residents have helped the city fulfill the Mayor’s Monarch Pledge to the National Wildlife Federation. Several residents keep bees, chickens, and vegetable gardens. The school features an edible schoolyard and outdoor classroom. A food forest grows free produce in a city park.
Community
Diversity
Columbia Heights prides itself as one of the most culturally diverse cities in the state. Restaurants of many nationalities are popular. Residents can learn about each other through public storytellings, block parties, art shows, and library events. Equality is also celebrated at an annual PRIDE festival. Regular exchanges maintain a relationship with the Sister City of Łomianki, Poland.
Community Service
Streets and parks are cleaned up twice a year by many groups of residents. Fresh produce is given to residents who need assistance. Pet beds are hand made and donated to a local animal rescue organization. The city recycling center is completely staffed by volunteers. Partnerships between community groups, churches, and volunteer organizations are common.
Community Celebrations
The annual Columbia Heights Jamboree is a popular mid-year festival including a community art fair, parade, carnival, and fireworks display. Movies in the Park, Music in the Park, and Dog Day are celebrated in late summer. Autumn celebrations include the annual Monarch Festival, and a Halloween showcase of land, water, and air vehicles from the fire department, hospital, and public works. Winter attractions include a snow and ice skating event, an ice plunge, and a stop from the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train.
