AGENDA DATE: 2/5/2020
TITLE:
Title
Resolution Endorsing the “We Are Still In” Letter to the Virginia General Assembly Supporting Climate Action
BODY
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Authorize Board Chair to sign “We Are Still In” Letter and send to the Virginia General Assembly
ITEM TYPE: Consent Action Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Richardson, Henry, Stewart, Harper, and Lowe
PRESENTER (S): Greg Harper
LEGAL REVIEW: Not Required
REVIEWED BY: Jeffrey B. Richardson
BACKGROUND: On September 6, 2017 the Board of Supervisors passed a Resolution to Reaffirm Commitment to Support Local Actions to Reduce Climate Pollution. The Resolution further commits Albemarle County to develop a community-wide Climate Action Plan and this effort is underway. On September 5, 2018 the Board of Supervisors authorized the Board Chair to sign the “We Are Still In” Declaration to support climate action to meet the 2015 Paris Agreement. On October 16, 2019 the Board passed a Resolution to Establish Community-Wide Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Reduction Target.
STRATEGIC PLAN: Board of Supervisor’s Prioritized FY20-22 Strategic Plan: Develop Climate Action Plan. Natural Resource Stewardship: Thoughtfully protect and manage Albemarle County’s ecosystems and natural resources in both rural and development areas to safeguard the quality of life of current and future generations.
DISCUSSION: The Virginia General Assembly is currently considering a number of Legislative actions, such as the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), establishment of clean energy standards, greater customer access to clean energy, and policies and programs that reduce transportation-related emissions. The “We Are Still In” organization is urging Virginia members to sign a letter to their General Assembly representatives supporting these climate actions (Attachment A). The legislative changes will accelerate Virginia’s transition to a low-carbon, clean energy economy.
BUDGET IMPACT: Signing the letter does not have direct budget impacts.
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
Approve Resolution Endorsing the “We Are Still In” Letter to the Virginia General Assembly (Attachment B). The Resolution authorizes the Board Chair to sign the letter and send to General Assembly representatives listed in the Resolution.
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment A - “We Are Still In” Letter to the Virginia General Assembly
Attachment B - Resolution Endorsing the “We Are Still In” Letter to the Virginia General Assembly