Title
Briefing on Potential Amendments to the Olympia Sea Level Rise Response Collaborative ILA and By-Laws
Recommended Action
Information only. No action requested.
Report
Issue:
Discussion on possible updates to the Interlocal Agreement and by-laws for the Olympia Sea Level Rise Response Collaborative
Staff Contact:
Pamela Braff, PhD, Director of Climate Programs, City Manager’s Office, Climate Program, 360.753.8249
Presenter(s):
Pamela Braff, PhD, Director of Climate Programs
Background and Analysis:
The Olympia Sea Level Rise Response Collaborative (Collaborative) was established through an Interlocal Agreement (ILA) between the City of Olympia, Port of Olympia, and LOTT Clean Water Alliance in 2021. The ILA describes the intent, policy focus, scope, and by-laws of the Collaborative.
Throughout the first 4 years of implementation, Technical Workgroup and Executive Committee members have identified some challenges and opportunities to improve the existing ILA and operating structure of the Collaborative. During the March 7, 2025 meeting, the Executive Committee discussed some of these issues and requested that staff prepare a future agenda item to discuss potential amendments to the ILA.
Staff will provide a briefing on areas for possible updates to the Interlocal Agreement (ILA) for the Sea Level Rise Collaborative. This briefing will include discussions around the scope of the Executive Committee and Technical Workgroup, meeting frequency, and the Collaborative’s approach to strategic planning.
Climate Analysis:
The ILA provides a foundation for coordination and collaboration of sea level rise adaptation in downtown Olympia. This item is not expected to impact climate mitigation strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Equity Analysis:
The initiatives pursued by the Olympia Sea Level Rise Collaborative will provide additional data and guidance on how to fund and implement sea level rise response strategies. When appropriate, staff will consider how data collection and analysis for these work items can be designed to improve our understanding of who may benefit and who will be impacted by future projects and funding.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
There is considerable community interest in sea level rise planning and implementation of flood protection measures in downtown Olympia.
Options:
Briefing only. No action requested.
Financial Impact:
The ILA establishes the cost share requirements for the Collaborative Members to administer the collaborative and implement near-term projects identified in the sea level rise response plan. As of 2025, the total estimated cost to implement the Collaborative’s annual workplan is $180,000. Implementation of more significant mid-term and long-term adaptation projects is outside the scope of this ILA.
Attachments:
Interlocal Agreement (2021)