On September 29, 2020, the Yolo County Board of Supervisors (Board) passed a resolution (Resolution No. 20-114) declaring a climate crisis requiring an urgent and inclusive mobilization of public and private resources to initiate a just transition to an inclusive, equitable, sustainable, and resilient local economy while also supporting and advocating for regional, national, and international efforts necessary to reverse the climate, social justice, and economic crises. The emergency resolution called for the creation of an advisory body charged with engaging the broader Yolo County community to ensure inclusivity in the development and implementation of the Yolo County Climate Action Plan (CAP). On May 4, 2021, the Board approved the Yolo County Climate Action Commission (YCCAC) composition and directed staff to begin recruiting individuals to serve on the group. More information related to YCCAC formation process and categories of membership are included in Attachment B.

Since the May 4, 2021, Board meeting, nine of the eleven YCCAC members have been appointed and the YCCAC held two meetings, one on September 30 and one on November 1, 2021. The third meeting is set to occur on December 2, 2021, at which the YCCAC intends to elect officers. Approval of the attached charter will formalize the structure and protocols for the YCCAC, including member duties and the decision-making process, which will allow the group to transition towards beginning work on the efforts necessary to reverse the climate, social justice, and economic crises.

The YCCAC reviewed the draft charter at the November 1 meeting and provided feedback to staff, which was incorporated into the document and reviewed by the Board Subcommittee on Climate. Staff recommend approval of the charter so that the YCCAC can elect officers and begin activities requiring a vote with an decision making structure in place.