One of the first steps a municipality can take is adopting a resolution to affirm its commitment. Resolutions can be general like those modelled on the US Mayors' Climate Protection Agreement. 

Ideally, sector specific resolutions are also adopted like building carbon neutral buildings in line with the Architecture 2030 Challenge or making high density mixed-use centres a priority like Portland’s 2040 Growth Concept.

In many municipalities, similar commitments made by senior management are equally important. These statements educate council, staff and the public and help align the interests, ideas and resources necessary for implementation.