In an effort to better prepare for predicted climate changes in northern Arizona, as well as to achieve the City Council’s goal for strong climate action, City staff have created a planning process for the development of Flagstaff’s first community Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (Plan). The Plan will be centered on mitigation strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, adaptation strategies to address community vulnerabilities, and a prioritized list of actions.

Specifically, the Plan will:

• Set a goal to reduce Flagstaff’s community greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
• Outline the specific steps that our community will need to take to reduce GHG emissions.
• Outline actions to prepare for and adapt to climate changes.
• Focus on implementation, alignment with other City efforts, and return on investment.
• Build partnerships with community organizations and institutions.
• Draw on of the wealth of indigenous and scientific knowledge in Flagstaff and the technical expertise of City staff.

The planning process will engage community members, to develop community priorities, identify neighborhood-level vulnerabilities, and prioritize climate actions. The process will utilize a Steering Committee, made up of various community representatives, and a Technical Committee, representing local technical expertise.

Connection to Council Goal and/or Regional Plan:
Council Goal:
Take meaningful climate change action.   
 
Regional Plan:
Goal E.1. Increase energy efficiency.
Goal E.2. Expand production and use of renewable energy.
Goal E&C.1. Proactively improve and maintain the region’s air quality.
Goal E&C.2 Reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Goal E&C.3 Strengthen community and natural environment resiliency through climate adaptation efforts.
Goal E&C.4. Integrate the best available science into all policies governing the use and conservation of Flagstaff’s natural resources.
 
Financial Impact:
A consultant will provide facilitation, technical, and plan-writing expertise to support this Plan. During the budget hearings up to $100,000 was identified to pay for consulting services. Staff will return to City Council for approval of consultant contract in September.