Mayor Pegeen Hanrahan spoke to members of UF's Student Senate on Tuesday about the city's commitment to eco-friendly practices and recent revisions to UF's Student Conduct Code.
During a question-and-answer session, Hanrahan touted Gainesville as one of the first cities to sign the Kyoto Protocol, which embraces a pledge ratified by several developed nations to dramatically reduce heat-trapping emissions. The U.S. is the only developed country that hasn't signed the agreement.
She also urged support for a two-year, half-cent sales tax, which will provide funding for conservation and about $20 million for park improvements.
In addition, she is using competition to push the city's environmental efforts further.
Hanrahan said she has an ongoing bet with Tallahassee Mayor John Marks that pits the cities' environmental pursuits against each other.
While Gainesville has taken many energy-saving measures, the use of fluorescent light bulbs is one area in which Tallahassee has the city beat, she said.
These bulbs decrease power plant emissions, as well as energy bills, she said. Bulbs will be sold at Saturday's game against Ole Miss for $1.
Hanrahan also spoke about the recently proposed regulations to UF's Student Conduct Code concerning open-container policies.
UF students deserve all aspects of the traditional college experience but should recognize their actions affect others and represent UF, Hanrahan said.
"It does mean being respectful, knowing your own limits," she said. "We have do it in a safe way, a way that doesn't wreak havoc on your friends and neighbors."
Hanrahan encouraged UF students to commit to involvement because UF is under the umbrella of Gainesville.
"You're stuck with the University of Florida," she said. "It will stay in your heart. It will stay in your mind."
After her speech, Sen. Benjamin Cavataro, Orange and Blue Party leader, proposed a friendly public debate between the Orange and Blue Party and the Gator Party, which was accepted by Gator Party Leader Sen. Shire Patel. The debate will be Oct. 6, the day before the Student Government election starts, and will be held at 1 p.m. on Turlington Plaza.
