Title
Update on 2024 Sea Level Rise Collaborative Workplan
Recommended Action
Briefing only. No action requested.
Report
Issue:
Update and discussion on the 2024 Sea Level Rise Collaborative Workplan.
Staff Contact:
Pamela Braff, PhD, Director of Climate Programs, 360.753.8249
Presenter(s):
Pamela Braff, City of Olympia
Wendy Steffensen, LOTT Clean Water Alliance
Rich Hoey, City of Olympia
Lester Kao, CohnReznick
Chris Livingstone, CohnReznick
Background and Analysis:
The 2024 workplan includes several Phase 2 and Phase 3 work items to continue the implementation of projects started in 2023. These projects include:
• Land Subsidence Survey - Perform a satellite land subsidence survey to improve our understanding of local subsidence rates.
• Groundwater Study - Conduct a groundwater study to evaluate tidal influence and the potential impact of sea level rise on groundwater levels.
• Financing and Governance Evaluation - Evaluate potential financing and governance mechanisms to fund and implement the Sea Level Rise Response Plan.
Staff will provide an update on the 2024 workplan items.
Climate Analysis:
This item is not expected to impact climate mitigation strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, the projects included within the 2024 workplan will help the Collaborative more effectively adapt to climate impacts that can no longer be avoided.
Equity Analysis:
These initiatives 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:
Not Applicable
Financial Impact:
The total cost to implement the 2023 workplan is $180,000. Costs are shared across the Collaborative Members and the necessary funding was included in each Member’s 2024 budget.
Attachments:
Presentation-CohnReznick
Presentation-Executive Committee