During a recent government meeting, the city’s Natural Resources Program Manager, Kerry Rappold, provided an update on the development of the Climate Action Plan, a key initiative aligned with the city council's goals for fiscal years 2023-2025. Rappold emphasized that the project, which commenced in August, is currently in its initial stages, focusing on gathering data and establishing a framework for future strategies.

The Climate Action Plan aims to address climate change through two primary approaches: mitigation, which involves reducing the causes of climate change, and adaptation, which prepares the community for its impacts. Rappold highlighted the importance of transitioning to clean energy, enhancing sustainable transportation, and improving waste management as critical mitigation strategies. Adaptation efforts will include disaster preparedness and restoration of natural areas.

Rappold noted that the city is already making strides in green energy usage, with all city facilities powered by 100% green energy and community participation at 14%. The plan will also consider carbon sequestration methods, such as tree planting, and explore carbon credit trading as potential strategies.

The development process will involve extensive modeling of greenhouse gas emissions and public engagement. Rappold outlined a timeline for the project, indicating that public forums and community surveys will be conducted in early 2024 to gather input on proposed strategies. A draft plan is expected to be presented to the planning commission and city council by late spring 2024, with adoption anticipated shortly thereafter.

The meeting concluded with Rappold inviting questions and comments from attendees, signaling an open approach to community involvement in shaping the Climate Action Plan.