Ella B. Scarborough CRC and Area Leaders Recognized for Sustainability Efforts

Drone shot of the Ella B. Scarborough Community Resource Center

Mecklenburg County shone brightly at this year’s Sustain Charlotte awards, an event recognizing local sustainability leaders and initiatives for their work in improving our community, environment, and economy both now and for generations to come.  

Awards were presented on Monday, April 28, at a ceremony at the Revelry in Camp North End.  

Rev. Janet Garner-Mullins, a member of the Mecklenburg County Air Quality Commission, received the Most Inspiring Individual award in recognition of her grassroots sustainability efforts. She was honored for her work to improve air quality, renewable energy adoption and sustainable food systems across our community.

Park and Recreation senior planner Katie Lloyd was also recognized as a nominee in this category for her leadership in park projects and expanding the greenway network. She was honored for her efforts in enhancing public health and recreation, stormwater management, and climate resilience goals.  

Solid Waste Director Jeff Smithberger stands with the recipient of Sustain Charlotte's Recycling Excellence award, Ezekiel “Zeke” Tallant.
Jeff Smithberger and Ezekiel “Zeke” Tallant

Mecklenburg County Solid Waste Director Jeffrey Smithberger presented an award for Recycling Excellence to community member Ezekiel “Zeke” Tallant, a steadfast advocate for waste reduction who has led neighborhood cleanups and recycling initiatives at work.

The Ella B. Scarborough Community Resource Center was named Most Inspiring Building Project for its integration of geothermal energy, solar panels, and water conservation strategies. The former shopping center was named as a “catalyst in revitalizing the Eastway neighborhood and setting a standard for future community-focused developments.”

Also winning honors was the Town of Davidson. The community took home the award for Inspiring Government Agency for its Climate Action Plan, which lays out ambitious goals to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. 

Learn more about Mecklenburg County’s environmental stewardships efforts.