This summer, I had the privilege to work with both the Town and Village of Hamilton. Both of these municipalities serve the areas surrounding Colgate, and are crucial to the operations in the wellbeing of the local community. While it is hard to define the wide range of local government responsibilities, some of the highlights include maintaining local infrastructure, hosting community events, and informing the public about current events. All this is done through remarkable collaboration across departments, and I am fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to work hand in hand with dedicated public servants and community members to complete my project.
My project centers around the Town and Village’s efforts to complete recertification as a New York Climate Smart Community (CSC). This state-developed and funded program focuses on local government efforts to both mitigate and adapt to the complex challenges that climate change presents. By being a certified CSC, Hamilton benefits in a variety of ways, including better success on grant applications, cost savings through greater efficiency, and conservation of green spaces for recreation and biodiversity. However, in order to maintain this certification, the municipalities must prove commitment to the program by submitting documentation on a variety of completed actions to gain 120 points. I was tasked with gathering said documentation on completed events whilst also completing additional actions to supplement the required points.
Throughout the project, I was able to learn about government operations whilst developing valuable professional skills. Specifically, I learned the significance of collaboration in local government, as I worked with multiple departments to gain a foundational understanding of current initiatives and projects. Similarly, I honed my communication and organizational skills, especially in file management and project tracking, to ensure everyone involved remains informed and aligned. These skills were critical throughout the project, and I am proud to say that both municipalities completed their recertification application. Additionally, we developed materials and resources that will help streamline future recertification efforts, which take place every five years.
Being an Environmental Geography and Economics student, I was very excited to work on a project that encompassed both my academic interests and personal values. I was able to contribute to a program that reflects the values of the local community while developing long-lasting and transferable skills. Regardless of where my career takes me, the collaborative, organizational, and analytical skills that I have developed will continue to serve me well. Just as importantly, the relationships I have created with officials, community members, and Colgate faculty members are invaluable. In the future, I hope to continue to participate in projects that reflect my values and help better local communities. — Matheson Williams ’27