[See the news article on this resolution: Alaska towns developing climate change adaptation plan. -Ed.]

KENAI PENINSULA BOROUGH
RESOLUTION 2007-069
A RESOLUTION COMMITTING TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF A LOCAL CLIMATE
CHANGE IMPACT PLAN

WHEREAS, the Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly has recognized the need to develop a community understanding of the potential impacts, adaptation to, and opportunities from climate change and learn what local actions could be taken and then consider appropriate steps to address these issues; and

WHEREAS, numerous Alaskan commissions and panels charged with identifying Alaska’s climate change indicators, have been considering the local impacts measured through research and observations. These include the University of Alaska International Polar Year Scenarios Network for Alaska Planning (SNAP) activities, Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Policy (ACCAP) research on public infrastructure impact costs, the Denali Commission’s community surveys, Governor Palin’s Sub-Cabinet Panel on Climate Change, the Alaska Army Corp of Engineers, and Homer’s Global Warming Task Force; and

WHEREAS, numerous University of Alaska scientists have presented information developed from their research that points to both short term and long term impacts to the natural environment and surrounding communities, including increased risks of forest fire, floods, and coastal erosion; and

WHEREAS, local actions to increase energy efficiency and alternative energy developments are expected to reduce the high cost of energy needed to heat our homes and our businesses and, when incorporated into a borough energy plan that would reduce the use of fossil fuels, will be effective in adapting to climate impacts, producing financial savings, strengthening our economy, improving air quality and lead to a healthier, sustainable community;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE ASSEMBLY OF THE KENAI PENINSULA BOROUGH:

SECTION 1. That the Kenai Peninsula Borough commits to develop a Climate Change Impact plan that will promote public awareness of the benefits of developing and implementing a plan that improves our local economy, and that protects our resources and borough residents.

SECTION 2. That the Assembly requests the Mayor to specifically develop a Climate Change Impact plan that includes:

1. 1. Study and assess the Borough’s vulnerability
   The Kenai Peninsula Borough shall work with local and agency experts to assess vulnerabilities and opportunities associated with climate change.
2. 2. Set goals and prioritize
   Based on the assessment, the borough shall develop a prioritized list of goals and targets that reduce climate change vulnerabilities and enhance opportunities, including goals based on a borough energy plan that prioritizes cost savings and reduces emissions.
3. 3. Develop the plan
   Produce a concise plan that describes the action and policies for adapting to climate change by reducing the negative impacts and taking advantage of opportunities. The plan will include a description of timing, financial impact, responsible parties, and potential partners.
4. 4. Implement the plan
   The Borough administration will implement the plan provided that any parts of the plan requiring appropriation will necessitate Assembly approval and/or notification.
5. 5. Monitor efforts and reevaluate the plan
   The responsible parties will document results and accomplishments towards the goals in the plan and will periodically report those findings to the Mayor, Assembly and public in order that they may determine if revision of the plan or if an alternative approach is necessary to reach the goals set in the plan.

SECTION 3. That this resolution takes effect immediately upon its adoption.

ADOPTED BY THE ASSEMBLY OF THE KENAI PENINSULA BOROUGH THIS 8TH DAY OF JANUARY, 2008.