Climate and Environment Commission (CEC) 2025 Priorities

Summary

This document outlines the Climate and Environment Commission's (CEC) 2025 priorities, focusing on actions related to the city's Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP). Key areas include:

• Energy: Advocating for Columbia Water & Light to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2030 (a shift from 2035), removing the 3% rate cap for renewable investments, and supporting energy efficiency funding options for families and rental housing.
• Housing, Buildings, and Development: Monitoring the implementation of energy and resource efficiency standards for municipal buildings and advocating for the adoption of the International Building Energy Conservation Codes.
• Transportation: Monitoring public works efforts to revise street design standards to prioritize pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users, and improving bus service efficiency.
• Natural Resources: Advocating for ecological planning in publicly-owned natural areas and utility easements, and collaborating on water rate structures to encourage reduced water use.
• Implementation: Aligning city educational programs with CAAP goals and exploring community outreach events to celebrate progress.

Citizen Impact

Residents can expect continued efforts to increase renewable energy use by the local utility, potentially impacting energy costs and reliability. The focus on energy efficiency in buildings and transportation infrastructure aims to create a more sustainable environment and potentially improve local air quality.

Confidence

high