Mayor Murray signing the update of the Living Buildings Ordinance
Hello Friends and Partners...
Hope you are staying warm and safe and are well prepared as we move towards colder and wetter days. Preparedness certainly is the theme of our work at the moment. We are sharing news of the release of the Seattle Climate Preparedness Strategy and the launch of the "Resilient Seattle" initiative along with good news about how the City continues to prioritize resources and actions that will help Seattle advance equity and environmental progress. As always, thank you for being a partner in this work.
Jessica Finn Coven, Director
Office of Sustainability & Environment
KEY SUSTAINBILITY UPDATES
Accepting Comments on Seattle's Climate Preparedness Strategy
While we are committed to continuing to reduce our climate pollution, we already have begun to experience impacts of our changing climate.
The Seattle Climate Preparedness Strategy is the City's overarching plan for how we will prioritize investments and actions in order to ensure our economy, public health, and built infrastructure remain strong in the midst of a changing climate. OSE is seeking comments through November 30. Please send comments or questions to Tracy Morgenstern.
Mayor's Budget Supports Environmental Priorities
Mayor Murray's budget--released on September 26--has several notable investments that support Seattle's steadfast commitment to addressing climate change and advancing racial equity and environmental justice. More details can be found in this overview. The City Council is now reviewing the budget and is accepting comments. The next public hearing is on October 25. More information here.
Environmental Legislation Signed by Mayor
On Friday, October 7, Mayor Murray signed several bills that are strongly supported by the environmental community and support the work that OSE is doing. The bills continue to advance Seattle's progress on climate change, equity, transportation, and building sustainability.
More info here.
'Resilient Seattle' Initiative Launched
On Thursday, October 13, Mayor Murray convened a diverse set of stakeholders from community-based organizations, the private sector, government, academia, and the arts community for a "Resilient Seattle Workshop"--the first step in an effort to grow the city's ability to become more resilient to the shocks and stresses of the 21st century. Participants explored a range of issues including natural challenges such as earthquakes, floods, and climate change, along with humanitarian issues such as homelessness, inequity, and affordability. In the near future, Seattle will name a
Chief Resilience Officer (CRO)--an innovative new position in city government and funded by 100 Resilient Cities - Pioneered by the Rockefeller Foundation. The CRO will lead the city's resilience efforts and continue to engage stakeholders, resilience experts, and City
staff in drafting a comprehensive Resilience Strategy.
The Office of Sustainability & Environment collaborates with a wide range of stakeholders to develop innovative environmental solutions that foster equitable, vibrant communities and shared prosperity.
