City Welcomes First Sustainability Coordinator

Westerville’s Sustainability Coordinator David R. Celebrezze views his work as a thread that connects all aspects of the community. He joined Westerville Public Service in May. He is tasked with developing, implementing and overseeing comprehensive department and community-wide sustainability programs.

One of Celebrezze’s first initiatives was partnering with the Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO) to implement the Save More Than Food campaign this past summer. The campaign consisted of educational materials, social media posts and signage that helped convey the importance of composting food scraps for residents and businesses, and shared easy-to-implement ways to reduce waste.

Additionally, Celebrezze works closely with environmentally-focused organizations, such as the Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District, which helps protect the community’s water system, and internal and external partners that assist with the City’s energy conservation efforts. He also represents the City in various regional initiatives, including Sustainable2050, which was developed by the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission to help communities track their sustainability efforts towards achieving sustainability goals.

Celebrezze has a life-long passion for sustainability and the environment and has spent the past 20 years working with the public and businesses on these issues. Prior to joining the City, he helped support Columbus’ sustainability efforts through the Columbus GreenSpot program and the Columbus Climate Action Plan.