The City Council recently passed an ordinance to include the Climate and Sustainability Commission in the city's Municipal Code. This Commission, which replaces the Sustainable Tacoma Commission, will continue to focus on community involvement and ensure the Tacoma Climate Action Plan stays effective and accountable, according to the City of Tacoma.
The City of Tacoma has introduced an ordinance to establish the Climate and Sustainability Commission in response to residents' concerns about the climate emergency. Council Member Kristina Walker noted, "Following discussions with the Charter Review Committee and community members during the past year, I was thrilled to see a huge outpouring of community support for protecting and enhancing the work of this commission." In addition to creating the commission, the City Council has also taken steps to support sustainability through initiatives like urban wood reuse, solid waste recycling tax incentives, legal protections for trees, efforts to reduce landfill waste, and funding for safer pedestrian infrastructure.
Walker emphasized the need for diverse representation on the Commission, saying, "There is a lot more work to do and I hope all our community members who are eager to help steer the City’s approach to our climate emergency will apply for a position on the Climate and Sustainability Commission when we have open seats." She also pointed out that the ordinance includes a seat for youth on the commission. The City of Tacoma encourages public involvement through volunteer committees, boards, and commissions, which provide advice to the City Council and staff. More information is available on the City of Tacoma's website.
