2020-12-03 Citizens Climate Protection Committee MinCity of Edmonds - Mayors Climate Protection Committee ("CPC")
DRAFT
Meeting Minutes
December 3, 2020
Citizens Committee on Mayor's
Climate Protection Agreement
Mission of the CPS is to (1) Encourage citizens to be a part of the solution, (2) Encourage City
staff and citizens to conserve current resources, (3) Work with the City Council to implement
ideas, and (4) Effectively address the future impacts of climate change
In Attendance via zoom video call / phone:
• Citizens: T. C. Richmond and Lisa Conley (co-chairs), Dawna Lahti, Hank Landau,
Cynthia Pruitt and David Schaefer
• Staff. Shane Hope and Kernen Lien
• Guests: Bill Phipps
Call to Order, Review of Agenda, Introductions: The regular meeting of the CPC was
called to order at 8:30 am on a zoom video call initiated by the City. Attendees
introduced themselves.
2. Approval of October 2020 meeting minutes: Unanimously approved with changes
recommended by Cynthia.
3. City's Climate Progress: Kernen reported that Cascadia will present a draft public
engagement plan in January. He will use the CPC -suggested framework of major
milestones for the CPC January meeting. The goal is for the CAP update to be approved
by the end of 2021. City staff had a kick-off meeting with Cascadia Consulting attended
by CPC co-chairs. Cascadia plans public meeting introducing climate change in late
January. Cynthia asked if we can report hopeful direction at the public meeting. Cynthia
reported the Puget Sound Regional Council has GHG emission transportation information
since COVID. The City can report on its GHG reduction efforts which may include the
Waste Water Treatment Plant's carbon recovery plan and an update on the City's
progress toward improving the energy efficiency of buildings owned by the City.
4. Tree Code: Kemen presented a powerpoint on the draft Tree Code. (See Attachment A.)
The City's 2019 Forest Management Plan forms the backbone of the Draft Tree Code.
The worst public outcry is against clear cutting so the Tree Code is focused on retaining
more trees in subdivisions. No net loss is intent of tree reduction limits, changing setback
requirements, and allowing retention of groves with focus on retaining 30% of significant
trees. Replacement of each larger tree actually removed by developer may be
compensated through payment into a fund for purchase or voucher of replacement trees
to be planted as part of the City's Urban Forestry Plan. Who would administer this fund?
The Parks Department but the specifics of how that would work is not spelled out in the
Tree Code.
Kernen responded that views are not expressly considered in the Tree Code. Shane
responded to questions about views: public views are sometimes addressed.
Cynthia asked about how many subdivisions are forthcoming and Kernen replied that the
Tree Code applies to Short plats and there are about 10 per year; single family
development is not included unless it is in a critical area as designated by current City
code. Tree cutting companies consult with the City about critical area limitations. Tree
bank or fund would be established to which donations could be made for tree planting
and other tree programs.
In response to Hank's question, Kernen replied that the Tree Code does not address solar
corridors where trees would need to be removed to allow for the most solar exposure.
T. C. asked if the CPC wanted to submit a letter regarding the Tree Code for the public
hearing scheduled for 12/9. The CPC unanimously supported and T. C. volunteered to
draft for review and approval by CPC members, Shane and the Mayor.
5. Council Report: Council -member Johnson was unable to attend. Shane reported that the
Council continues to work on the budget, capital projects and analysis of the gaps in the
comprehensive plan. The Comp Plan will be updated in 2024 and will need to
incorporate climate and equity issues.
6. Diversity and Inclusion / Recruitment Subcommittee: The draft handout was
reviewed. It has been approved by the Mayor for use. It is available for CPC members
for targeted outreach, not for general distribution. Hank asked whether the City is
reviewing potential racism within City operation, using signage of reporting suspicious
activities and assuming technological facility of citizens as examples of dismissing the
voice of citizens.
7. Announcements and Other: None
8. Public Comment: None
9. Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 9:30 am
Next Meeting: January 7 @ 8: 30 am