The City of Spokane is embarking on a transformative journey to address the pressing challenges posed by climate change. As part of this effort, we're undertaking a major update to our Comprehensive Plan, a foundational document guiding the city's growth and development. This update, mandated by the Washington State Growth Management Act and due in 2026, presents a unique opportunity to integrate climate considerations into every aspect of our city's future.
Community members can weigh in on Spokane’s climate and resiliency planning efforts through Engage Spokane, an online community space to offer input and help shape the future of our thriving city.
Project staff provided an overview to City Council and discussed the draft final engagement plan on Aug. 29, 2024. Watch the recording of the study session below:
The project consultants have prepared the Final Draft Community Engagement Plan (CEP) to inform the community engagement and planning efforts around climate resilience. The CEP provides a high-level direction for climate engagement, identifies values and priorities, and outlines examples of key tactics and opportunities for engagement as the process gets underway. The final draft document recognizes the nuances required for successful and equitable engagement around climate impacts and environmental justice, including emphasizing Tribal engagement and formal consultation. The CEP will also support the more general Periodic Update process by emphasizing discussions around climate planning.
We are interested in learning about additional ideas for outreach activities and engagement opportunities that could further support the climate planning process. Please provide feedback or share questions to climateplanning@spokanecity.org.
To assist with community understanding of terms used in climate planning, we have prepared a glossary of the most common terms. This may be updated throughout the process to reflect other terms as they are used.
City Council adopted Resolution 2024-0038 to initiate climate planning that implements the requirements of HB 1181 under the comprehensive plan periodic update. The Public Participation Plan is included as Exhibit A to provide high level guidance and engagement principles.
The City of Spokane has hired a robust and experienced consultant team to help lead our climate planning efforts. This team is led by BERK Consulting with supporting consultants Cascadia Consulting Group, Kauffman & Associates Inc, Parametrix, and Fehr & Peers.
Coming Up
Throughout 2024 and 2025, we will be working through a process to understanding Spokane's unique climate impacts and hazards, gather data and community feedback, and conduct analysis on our climate risk and community vulnerabilities.
With climate planning, we will work to:
Climate change isn't just a distant threat—it's already affecting our community in tangible ways, from more frequent and severe heatwaves to disruptions in our natural landscapes and ecosystems. By integrating climate resilience and greenhouse gas reduction strategies into our Comprehensive Plan, we're taking proactive steps to safeguard our city's well-being and ensure a thriving, sustainable future for all residents.
WA Department of Commerce has published the Final Guidance for Climate Planning that outlines the requirements in greater detail. Visit the Commerce's Climate Program website for more information.
Our Comprehensive Plan serves as the roadmap for Spokane's future growth and development. The WA Legislature adopted HB 1181 in 2023 that added a requirement for cities to include a climate element into the comprehensive plan. By integrating climate considerations into this plan, we're not only addressing immediate challenges but also laying the foundation for a more sustainable and resilient city in the years to come. From land use and transportation to housing and economic development, every aspect of the Comprehensive Plan will reflect our commitment to climate action.
Climate change affects everyone, regardless of age, background, or socioeconomic status. By proactively addressing climate risks and vulnerabilities, we can:
Climate-resilient infrastructure and policies can help mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events, reduce risks to public health, and safeguard our homes and businesses.
By reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable practices, we can protect our natural resources, safeguard biodiversity, and preserve the beauty of our region for future generations.
Climate change disproportionately impacts vulnerable communities, exacerbating existing inequalities and injustices. By centering equity in our climate planning efforts, we can ensure that all residents have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
Sign up for email updates to stay up to date on the latest developments in our climate planning efforts.
Got questions or ideas? Reach out to our team members for more information.
Tirrell Black
Assistant Planning Director
tblack@spokanecity.org
509.625.6500
Maren Murphy
Senior Planner (Climate Element)
mmurphy@spokanecity.org
509.625.6500
The WA Department of Commerce climate planning grant is supported with funding from Washington’s Climate Commitment Act. The CCA supports Washington’s climate action efforts by putting cap-and-invest dollars to work reducing climate pollution, creating jobs, and improving public health. Information about the CCA is available on their website.
