Tristan Bogart: Driving Sustainable Change in Michigan City

This story, by Razaq, is part of our series of stories highlighting youth participation in municipal government. See here for more coverage. This story also appeared in Elkhart High School’s ‘The Pennant,’ on May 28, 2024.

Tristan Bogart, a Commissioner for the Michigan City Sustainability Commission, plays a pivotal role in advancing local legislative efforts focused on sustainability. In a recent conversation, Bogart, a rising Sophomore at Ivy Tech Community College in Michigan City, shed light on his responsibilities, approach, and the inspiration driving his commitment to a greener future.

Bogart’s interest in sustainability was first sparked by observing the success of Michigan City’s public schools in implementing solar panels. “Seeing what the local public schools did with adding solar panels and how that tremendously decreased their prices really got me into the idea of sustainability,” he said. The significant reduction in energy costs for these schools showed him the economic benefits of sustainable practices, and it fueled his dedication to similar projects on a broader scale.

As a Commissioner, Bogart emphasizes the importance of pushing legislative recommendations to the city council. “We help push legislative recommendations to the city council for their consideration, and they would be the ones to pass it,” he explained.

His work primarily revolves around the economic implications of sustainability initiatives. “I mostly focus on the economics of things rather than social aspects, as I believe if people don’t feel a difference in their pockets, especially with how prices are now, they won’t follow you no matter how you try to put it.”

Tristan Bogart: “We’re on the right path, and with continued effort and collaboration, we can achieve great things.” Photo provided by Moments Captured by Danielle Stark.

One of Bogart’s ongoing projects is expanding facilities for electric cars, including the addition of charging stations at Michigan City’s beach. “Electric vehicles are the future, and it’s essential that we provide the infrastructure to support them,” he noted. By making electric vehicle usage more convenient and accessible, this initiative promotes a cleaner environment and encourages residents to adopt greener transportation options.

Bogart adds, “We are also working on a pilot program at our police department Michigan City Police Department (MCPD) to obtain three electric police cars and approximately 3 electric bikes. We would need to install chargers for those, and this pilot program will determine if it’s an economically & financially viable.”

In addition to supporting electric vehicles, Bogart is deeply involved in a community-led effort to maintain the cleanliness of the city’s beach.

Bogart clarified, “We as a commission share the like-minded goal of beach clean-ups and support it, but there is no official commission project regarding it.” Key people performing the clean ups are Unsalted No Sharks which is a local apparel brand in Michigan City. Bogart added, “There’s also a group led by Mike Kilbourne and Nora Ryszka who are local residents here in Michigan City. We also have business and individual environmental awards as well so we can annually recognize those businesses and residents helping keep our great city cleaner.”

The Michigan City Sustainability Commission, where Bogart serves, plays a critical role in the city’s efforts to promote sustainable development. The Commission focuses on a wide range of initiatives, including waste reduction, energy efficiency, and the promotion of green infrastructure. Their mission is to integrate sustainable practices into all aspects of city planning and operations, ensuring long-term environmental health and economic vitality. The Commission is unique in Indiana for the number of youth representatives: Currently, there are two high school and two middle school students serving. Additional youth representation of up to eight Commissioners is being considered by the Commission.

Another notable project by the Commission, under the leadership of Commissioner Tim Bauer and former commissioner Daisy Lee, is the development of green spaces and community parks throughout Michigan City. These efforts not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the city but also promote a healthier and more connected community.

Bogart’s approach shows the importance of making sustainability financially incentivized to the public. By focusing on economic benefits, he aims to drive broader community support for sustainable practices. His work not only helps reduce costs but also fosters a culture of environmental responsibility within the community. “Sustainability is also about creating a better quality of life for everyone,” he noted.

Looking ahead, Bogart is optimistic about the future of sustainability in Michigan City. He hopes for a community where sustainable practices are integrated into everyday life, benefiting both the environment and the local economy. “We’re on the right path, and with continued effort and collaboration, we can achieve great things,” he concluded.

Bogart added he may possibly run for a local office such as City Council in the future.

For more information on the Michigan City Sustainability Commission, visit their website or their Facebook page.