Environmental Action Committee Urges Marin County to Prioritize Sea Level Rise Planning

The Marin County Board of Supervisors meeting on August 21, 2025, focused on critical discussions surrounding climate adaptation and resilience planning in response to rising sea levels. Key stakeholders, including representatives from the Surfrider Foundation and the Environmental Action Committee of West Marin, emphasized the urgency of addressing the impacts of climate change on local communities and infrastructure.

During the meeting, concerns were raised about the lack of comprehensive analysis in the recent report regarding the economic impacts of sea level rise, particularly in areas with underground infrastructure. A speaker highlighted that the absence of above-ground utilities could lead to significantly higher costs for essential services like water and electricity during climate-related disasters.

Ashley Eagle Gibbs, Executive Director of the Environmental Action Committee, urged the county to adopt a precautionary approach by planning for the highest levels of sea level rise. She pointed out the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, such as atmospheric rivers, which have already caused damage to coastal properties and septic systems. Gibbs called for a proactive discussion on managed retreat and the need for updated local coastal program guidelines to ensure future generations can access coastal resources.

Carl Nicholas from the Ascension Beach Fire Protection District expressed gratitude for the county's attention to Stinson Beach and highlighted the connection between climate adaptation and the ongoing construction of a new fire station. He noted that the district is preparing to respond to a range of disasters, including flooding and storm impacts, which are expected to increase in frequency and severity.

Supervisors acknowledged the importance of the report and the need for collaborative efforts to address the challenges posed by climate change. They discussed the necessity of engaging the community in long-range planning and the potential for special districts to fund adaptation strategies. The board emphasized the importance of balancing immediate solutions with long-term planning to ensure the resilience of Marin County's coastal communities.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the pressing need for Marin County to prioritize climate adaptation strategies and engage stakeholders in developing comprehensive plans to address the impacts of sea level rise and extreme weather events. The board's commitment to collaboration and proactive planning aims to safeguard both the environment and public access to coastal areas for future generations.