Cities and towns across the United States are grappling with ways to reduce energy costs, conserve water, and limit their carbon footprint. Taos, New Mexico, is on the forefront of this collective challenge. On February 24, 2009, the Taos Town Council unanimously approved the Taos High Performance Building Ordinance. The new ordinance was the result of a yearlong effort by town officials, citizen volunteers, and hired consultants to encourage energy-efficient construction and design for town-owned buildings, new and renovated residential structures, and commercial property.