Moderna Institute presents Climate Compass project findings to Lopez Island Commissioners

The San Juan County Planning Commission received a significant update on community insights during their meeting on August 15, 2025. Representatives from the Moderna Institute and the Climate Compass project presented their final report, which compiled nearly 7,000 comments from 258 residents across Lopez, San Juan, and Shaw Islands. This extensive feedback will play a crucial role in shaping the county's comprehensive plan updates.

The report synthesizes community input gathered through various focus groups and public events, highlighting key themes and insights. The data collected will be made available for future analysis, allowing stakeholders to explore specific issues, such as water concerns, by searching relevant comments. This approach aims to ensure that community voices continue to inform planning decisions.

The presenters expressed gratitude for the commission's past incorporation of public feedback into planning processes and emphasized their commitment to ongoing engagement with the community. They offered to present their findings in future meetings, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in the comprehensive planning efforts.

In addition to this pivotal discussion, Chris Greason, chair of the climate and sustainability committee, also addressed the commission regarding the utility element, indicating a broader focus on sustainability issues within the county's planning framework.

The insights from the Climate Compass project are expected to significantly influence the county's future planning initiatives, ensuring that community needs and perspectives remain at the forefront of decision-making. As the commission moves forward, the integration of this feedback will be vital in addressing the evolving challenges faced by the islands.