Milwaukee Council Proposes Creation of Climate Action Committee for Plan Revision

The City Council of Milwaukie, Oregon, convened on July 15, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, with a primary focus on the establishment of a Climate Action Committee. The meeting began with an introduction from staff member Katie, who outlined the proposal for the committee, which had previously been discussed in a work session in March.

Katie emphasized the importance of the Climate Action Committee in supporting the implementation of the city’s climate action plan, originally adopted in 2019. The committee aims to enhance community engagement, provide diverse perspectives, and assist in updating the climate action plan as it approaches its six-year mark. The proposed committee would consist of seven community members, with the option to include two youth members, reflecting feedback from the council regarding committee size and recruitment challenges.

The roles and responsibilities of the committee would include monitoring and updating the climate action plan, offering policy recommendations, and facilitating outreach to the community. This structure is designed to ensure that the committee is effective and responsive to the needs of the city as it navigates climate-related challenges.

During the discussion, a council member inquired about the workload involved in revising the climate action plan and whether it would fit within the current scope of city staff resources. This question highlights the council's consideration of the practical implications of the committee's formation and its impact on city operations.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to addressing climate issues through community involvement and strategic planning. The next steps will involve finalizing the committee's structure and responsibilities, ensuring that it is well-equipped to contribute to Milwaukie's climate goals.