Dubuque adopted a city-wide sustainability program in response to fears that the living standard of future would be impeded by the way residents were using resources.  

To create a solution that would be truly lasting and effective, leaders realized that the changes would have to be community-driven, not government-led.  Citizens were therefore responsible for creating the mission statements and were partners in finding solutions, while government acted as catalyst for projects and a tool for accomplishing them.  

This has led to the adoption of "smart" energy plans, green jobs training, intelligent lighting of public spaces, a new solid waste collections program, and more.

This case study was nominated for ICMA's Annual Awards Program.