Item U09BOARD OF COUNTY CONEMSIONERS
AGENDA ITEM SUNUM ARY
Meeting Date: November 20, 2013
Bulk Item: Yes No X
Division: County Administrator
Department: Sustainability _ _
Staff Contact: Rhonda Haag, 453-8774
AGENDA ITEM WORDING: Approval of a Resolution of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe
County, Florida for Adoption of the Monroe County Climate Action Plan as developed by the Monroe County
Climate Change Advisory Committee and as reviewed and modified by County staff.
ITEM BACKGROUND: The BOCC is requested to adopt the Monroe County Climate Action Plan
(MCAP) as revised by staff. The purpose of the Monroe County Community Climate Action Plan
(MCAP) is to outline a course of action for the County government and communities of Monroe County
for a coordinated countywide strategy to minimize climate change impacts and to increase the
sustainability of the communities within the Florida Keys. The MCAP is an attempt to mitigate future
impacts by reducing community -wide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to 20% below 2005 levels by 2020
and to identify local adaptation needs for protection against future sea level rise. The MCAP has been
designed to support three (3) primary functions:
l .Provide clear guidance to County staff regarding when and how to implement key provisions of the plan
available for County action;
2.lnspire residents and businesses to participate in community efforts to address climate change issues;
3.Demonstrate Monroe County's commitment to climate change mitigation and adaptation.
The MCAP seeks to reduce GHG emissions and adopt mitigation and adaptation strategies in municipal and
community -wide activities. GHG reductions and climate strategies will be achieved in the areas of building
and community energy use, waste diversion, water conservation, natural areas, and transportation. The plan
contains strategies, objectives, measures, and actions that will direct the County's efforts and inspire the
incorporated municipalities, by creating a clear course of action so that everyone can have a role in creating
and achieving climate and sustainability goals. This MCAP drives and coordinates local efforts toward a
reduction in GHG emissions of 20% below 2005 emission levels by 2020.
PREVIOUS RELEVANT BOCC ACTION:
• 2007: BOCC approved the Monroe County Mayor's Climate Agreement Resolution 235 -2007
® 2010: BOCC approved the Southeast Florida Regional Climate Compact by Resolution 022 -2010
• 2010: BOCC commitment to reduce county GHG emissions 20% below 2005 levels by 2020, Resolution 067-
2010
• 2012: BOCC adoption of the Energy Efficiency Conservation Strategy Resolution IO2 -2012,
. 01/19/11: BOCC passed a resolution establishing a Climate Change Advisory Conunittee (CCAC) to make
recommendations regarding climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies
• 03/13/13 — BOCC accepted the Draft Climate Action Plan
• 10/16/13 — BOCC approved contract negotiations with Erin Deady, LLC for development of a sustainability
action plan and to set priorities for the MCAP
CONTRACT /AGREEMENT CHANGES: NA -
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS: Approval
TOTAL COST : To be determined INDIRECT COST: BUDGETED: Yes No X
DIFFERENTIAL OF LOCAL PREFERENCE:
Revised 7149
RESOLUTION NO —2013
" 1
1 1 1 1; ! 1 o 1 1' 1
1 ' p , t
WHEREAS, Monroe County, Florida, encompasses the uniquely beautiful natural
environment of the Florida Keys; and
WHEREAS, the Monroe County Board of Commissioners is dedicated to
preservation of the natural environment, conservation of energy and natural resources,
encouraging residents and visitors to be good stewards of the environment; and
WHEREAS, the Monroe County Board of Commissioners has made environmental
stewardship a priority by embracing the Southeast Florida Regional Climate Change
Compact, the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement, the ICLEI process for
developing a CIimate Action Plan, and by forming advisory committees including the
Monroe County CIimate Change Advisory Committee; and
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners established a target goal for the
county to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and associated energy costs for county
operations by 20% by the year 2020 relative to the 2005 baseline inventory as
established by the extension service; and
WHEREAS, the Monroe County Board of Commissioners formally established a
building standard for public buildings pursuant to Florida Statute §255.2575; and;
WHEREAS, Monroe County has completed an Energy Efficiency
Conservation S t rn t e g y for county owned buildings and transportation within
county geographical limits;
WHEREAS, Monroe County Board of Commissioners formally established the
Climate Change Advisory Committee and the committee has completed a Monroe
County Climate Action PIan and staff has reviewed it; and
WHEREAS, the revised Climate Action PIan is being presented for adoption.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA:
Section 1. The Monroe County Community Climate Action Plan, as
developed by the Monroe County Climate Change Action Committee and
1
revised by County staff, is hereby adopted.
Section 2 . The Plan is attached hereto and made a part hereof as Exhibit "A ".
Section 3. This Plan shall be used as a guide for the future development and
implementation of climate initiatives which will realize both emissions and
revenue savings for the County.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe
County, Florida, at a meeting of said Board held on the 20th day of November, 20I3.
By
Deputy Clerk
i
Mayor
H
EXHIBIT "A"
MONROE COUNTY
CLIMATE ACTION PLAN
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Monroe County Climate
Action Plan
March 2013
Prepared by the INIOM - 0e COLIMN' C1111MW CII'MIge Advis0ry COi11nlittee
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Monroe County Climate
Action Plan
March 2013
Prepared by the INIOM - 0e COLIMN' C1111MW CII'MIge Advis0ry COi11nlittee
ACKNOWLEGEMENTS
Developed and prepared by the Monroe County Climate Change Advisory Committee March, 2013.
This Monroe County Climate Action Plan is the result of true collaboration this document and its
supporting publications are the product of resources from various individuals and agencies. No additional
public dollars were dedicated to this effort. The Monroe County Clintate Change Advisory Committee
and support staff came together with purpose and realized the value of sharing resources, expertise and
information. Challenges became successes. Many have contributed to the process and this document. The
committee members and advisory staff are recognized here.
MEMBERS:
Chris Bergh (2011 -2013)
Harry Appel (2011 -2013)
Bob Glazer (2012 -2013)
Bill Hunter (2011 -2013)
Kelly McKinnon (2011 -2013)
Sherry Popham (2011)
Joel Reed (2011)
ADVISORY REPRESENTATIVES:
TJ Patterson, FL Keys Electric Cooperative
Julie Cheon, Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority
Alison Higgins, City of Key West
Vicki Boguszewski, Monroe County Health Department
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS:
Commissioner Sylvia Murphy, Liaison
MONROE COUNTY STAFF:
Don Riggs (2011 -2013)
Alessandra Score (2011)
Chuck Sherman (2012 -2013)
David Tuttle (2011 -2013)
Annalise Mannix (2011-2013)
John Forrer (2011 -2013)
Tom Genovese (2011 -2012)
Alicia Betancourt & Doug Gregory, University of Florida/IFAS Monroe County Extension
Nat Cassel, Assistant County Attorney, Monroe County
Rhonda Haag, Sustainability Program Manager, Monroe County
Michael Roberts, Monroe County Growth Management
Rosa Washington Monroe County Solid Waste
Table of Contents
I EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .......................................................................... ............................... 2
A INTRODUCTION ............................................................................. ...............................
4
II. LOCAL ACTIONS AND POLICIES FOR ADAPTING TO CLIMATE CHANGE
VARIABILITY................................................................................................ ............................... 4
B. THE POLICY CONTEXT OF CLIMATE PLANNING ........................ ............................... 6
1 Florida .................................................................................................. ..............................6
2. Southeast Florida Regional Climate Change Compact ........................ ............................... 7
3 Monroe County ................................................................................... ............................... 8
C. PURPOSE, SCOPE AND PROCESS ..................................................... ...............................
8
1 . Purpose ................................................................................................. ...............................
8
2 Scope .................................................................................................... ...............................
8
3 Process ................................................................................................. ...............................
9
III THE SCIENCE AND DATA .................................................................. ...............................
11
A CLIMATE SCIENCE ........................................................................... ...............................
11
.................................................................................................................... ...............................
15
B. VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT .................................................... ...............................
I5
C. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS ..................................................... ...............................
16
IV. RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ........... ...............................
20
A. CLIMATE CHANGE ADVISORY COMMITTEE TOP 6 RANKED
RECOMMENDATIONS........................................................................... ...............................
21
B. BENEFITS OF CLIMATE PROTECTION MEASURES ................... ...............................
22
C FOCUS AREAS .................................................................................... ...............................
22
V. CLIMATE ACTION PLAN GOALS & ACTION ITEMS ...................... ...............................
24
A. POLICY COORDINATION ................................................................. ...............................
24
B. IDENTIFY AND MONITOR RISKS & VULNERABILITIES ........ ...............................
28
C. EDUCATION AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT .......................... ...............................
32
D NATURAL SYSTEMS ........................................................... ............................... ..
35
E BUILT ENVIRONMENT .................................................................... ...............................
38
F. WATER RESOURCES & WASTEWATER ....................................... ...............................
45
G. RENEWABLE ENERGY .................................................................... ...............................
48
H. SOLID WASTE & RECYCLING ....................................................... ...............................
50
VII APPENDICES ........................................................................................ ...............................
59
APPENDIX A. — LIST OF MONROE COUNTY ACTIONS & RESOLUTIONS ...............
59
I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Welcome to the Monroe County Community Climate
Change Action Plan. The Monroe County Climate
Change Advisory Committee (CCAC), in
coordination with advisory Monroe County staff, has
developed this document through a collaborative
effort over the past two years. This document is a
critical milestone of the CCAC, which was charged
with the development of climate - related
recommendations for the Monroe County Board of
Commissioners.
The Committee has united best practices with
existing climate science and staff reports to provide the foundation for this Community Climate Action
Plan. The Plan calls for concerted action in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and anticipating and
adapting to local impacts of a changing climate. The recommendations presented here attempt to
accomplish those goals while also serving to protect Monroe County's unique quality of life and
economy, guide future investments, and foster livable, sustainable and resilient communities.
The plan provides for steps to move towards resiliency and reduce emissions by exploring alternative
policies and practices. It creates a platform for public outreach and public policy development to
effectively communicate the steps from risk to resiliency with the general public, voters, elected officials
and decision makers in Monroe County, Florida.
The specific recommendations put forth in this plan were developed through a collaborative process
involving subject matter experts and stakeholders from public and private sectors, universities and not -
for- profit organizations. These stakeholders brought specific subject area knowledge as well as
information on successful initiatives already underway locally or in other communities. Many of the
recommendations build upon best practices throughout our region. Others delve into new areas which call
for the integration of climate change into planning and decision making processes in ways that few local
governments have yet implemented.
The overall objective is to integrate climate adaptation and mitigation into existing systems and to
develop a plan that can be implemented through existing local organizations. It provides the common
integrated framework for a stronger and more resilient Monroe County community starting today, for
tomorrow, and into the future.
There are 72 action items detailed in the plan's 8 goal areas to be accomplished over the next 5 years,
with annual reports to mark progress. The recommendations will be implemented through several
approaches including:
• The development of policy guiding documents by local governing bodies;
• The development of operational guidance documents;
• The development of consistent goals and measures throughout the various governments in the County;
• A coordinated multi - disciplinary outreach and education program; and
• Processes for focused and prioritized investments.
Every organization in the region has a role to play in making Monroe County a resilient and sustainable
community.
II. LOCAL ACTIONS AND POLICIES FOR ADAPTING TO
CLIMATE CHANGE VARIABILITY
A. INTRODUCTION
The Florida Keys are on the front lines of climate change impacts such as sea level rise and increased
hurricane intensity. While greenhouse gas emissions produced within the Monroe County region
constitute only a small percentage of national and global quantities, Monroe County, because of its unique
vulnerabilities to sea -level rise and our international presence as a premier tourist destination, has an
opportunity to demonstrate leadership on this global issue by implementing the critical policies, practices
and investments that will eventually reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and prepare us for the
unavoidable impacts of climate change. We clearly have the most to lose. If sea -level rise is not curtailed
by immediate reductions in greenhouse gases, the Florida Keys may eventually become unlivable.
The burning of fossil fuels and deforestation
are causing an increase in greenhouse gases in
the Earth's atmosphere. There is consensus
among climatology scientists that this is
driving unprecedented climate change. Post-
industrial human activity has cumulatively
created an unprecedented negative impact on
global climate processes resulting in
accelerated changes in climate change patterns
that could threaten the future security and
stability of sovereign nations and human
society. The consequences are dramatic and are
already being witnessed through increases in
the melting of Arctic sea ice, an expansion of
the tropical zone and the rate of sea level rise
caused by melting glaciers, the heating
(thermal expansion) of the oceans and melting
ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica. In the
last 80 years, there has been an average 9 -inch
sea level rise here in south Florida.
Numerous estimates of future sea - levels have been made on both global and regional scales with regional
South Florida planning guidance available from a white paper on sea level rise projections developed by
the Sea Level Rise Technical Ad Hoc Working Group of the Southeast Florida Regional Climate
Compact entitled A Unified Sea Level Rise Projection for Southeast Florida available at
( http: southeastfloridacli .org/tidf'Sea °o2OLeveIP- 2O Rise. dt . The projection was an
integration of similar analyses recently conducted by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the South Florida
Water Management District, Miami -Dade Climate Change Task Force Science and Technology
Committee, Broward County Climate Change Task Force Science and Technical Subcommittee and
Florida Atlantic University.
Planning decisions for future public and private projects and adaptation efforts must recognize the need to
address sea -level rise. The current local and regional and sea -level rise projections do not account for
future increases in ice -sheet melting. Therefore we should consider current estimates to be conservative
Key West Airport flooding effects solely from high tide in May,
2012
and optimistic. Planning decisions should take into consideration medium to extreme sea level rise
predictions.
The long -term costs of having to implement adaptation measures intended to help cope with climate
change impacts due to inaction and the subsequent negative consequences to the economy, social
structure and environment make it necessary to implement mitigation actions now to avoid or minimize
long -term adaptation costs; even though mitigation may be costly in the short-term. We do have a chance
now to prevent the worst impacts of climate change. If we act effectively, we should be able to limit both
the magnitude of climate change and the severity of its impacts. The two major approaches to addressing
the potential negative aspects of climate change are mitigation and adaptation. Mitigation involves
actions to reduce GHG emissions to reduce the amount and speed of climate change. Adaptation involves
actions to reduce the impacts of climate change on existing society and the environment. Both mitigation
and adaptation strategies are contained within this document.
Given the overwhelming consensus that
anthropogenic or "man- made" greenhouse gas
emissions are causing global climate change,
Monroe County is joining an increasing number of
local governments committed to addressing climate
change at the local level. The County recognizes the
risk that climate change poses to its constituents, and
is acting now to reduce the greenhouse gas (GHG)
emissions, or "carbon footprint ", of both its
government operations and the community at -large
through the innovative programs laid out in this
Climate Action Plan. Ultimately, local action is
needed to reduce Monroe County's contribution
toward the problem of climate change and adapt to
its current and future effects. This Climate Action Doug Gregory highlights the effects of extreme high
Plan takes advantage of common sense approaches tide in Key West.
and cutting edge policies that our local government
is uniquely positioned to implement actions that can reduce energy use and waste, create local jobs,
improve air quality, preserve our local landscape and history, and in many other ways benefit Monroe
County for years to come.
B. THE POLICY CONTEXT OF CLIMATE PLANNING
1. Florida
Since 2006, the State of Florida has responded to growing concerns over the effects of climate change by
adopting various legislations and plans to address emissions and sustainability in the public sector.'
In 2006, the Florida Legislature passed the Florida
Energy Act (within Chapter 377, F.S.) which, among
other things, created the Florida Energy Commission
( "FEC "), and provided for renewable energy grants and a
solar rebate program. In 2007, Governor Charlie Crist
signed a series of executive orders aimed at reducing
greenhouse gas emissions and establishing an Action
Teant on Energy and Climate Change. Other legislation
was passed in 2007 directing the Florida Building
Commission to create a model green building ordinance
and in 2008; legislation was passed directing local
governments to include GHG reduction strategies into
their Comprehensive Plans. Legislation was also passed
in 2008 that requires newly constructed government
buildings to meet the rating requirements of the U.S.
Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy &
Environntenta! Design ( " LEED ") or the Florida Green
Building Coalition, or another comparable third party
"green" building rating system. This provision was later amended to include the International Green
Construction Code as an option for government building construction. In 2008, legislation was passed
that mandates the Florida Building Code be significantly increased in its energy efficiency requirements,
but the State has yet to adopt the International Green Construction Code as a standard for private
construction. Finally, in 20I0, legislation was passed that provides authority to local governments to
create energy financing and retrofitting programs and that revises the state's recycling targets to make
them more aggressive.
In the 2007 -2009 timeframe, the Florida Energy and Climate Change Action Plan was developed
(pursuant to Executive Order 07 -128), Phase 1 of the Report includes 35 findings and 30
recommendations. Among the categories covered are power generation, transportation and government
recommendations to lower and diversity energy use and diversity energy sources as well as take steps to
start planning for climate change impacts, It called for "organizing the state government for Florida's
energy future." Phase 2 of the report detailed 50 separate policy recommendations to reduce GHG
emissions and provide a framework for climate change adaptation strategies over the coming years and
decades. Finally, in 2008 an important amendment to the Florida Forever legislation made properties
subject to sea level rise eligible for state land acquisition funding. Section 259.I05 (17)(d), F.S.
In recent 2011 revisions to Florida's Community Planning Act, Chapter 163, F.S. local governments are
permitted to establish "adaptation action areas" in their comprehensive plans where the community
"identifies one or more areas that experience coastal flooding due to extreme high tides and storm surge,
1 This section taken from. The City of Marathon, Sustainability and Climate Plan. May 2012. Pages 26 -27. Energy
Systems Group and Erin L. Deady, PA_
and that are vulnerable to the related impacts of rising sea levels for the purpose of prioritizing funding
for infrastructure needs and adaptation planning." Specifically, the law states:
"At the option of the local government, develop an adaptation action area designation for
those loin -lying coastal zones that are experiencing coastal flooding dire to extreme high
tides and storm surge and are vulnerable to the impacts of rising sea level. Local
governments that adopt an adaptation action area may consider policies within the
coastal management elentent to improve resilience to coastal flooding resulting front
high -tide events, storm surge, flash floods, storm water nmof, and related impacts of sea
level rise. Criteria for the adaptation action area may include, but need not be limited to,
areas far which the land elevations are below, at, or near mean higher high water, which
have a hydrologic connection to coastal waters, or which are designated as evacuation
:ones for storm surge."
Other local governments in Florida and across the country are addressing these issues through various
efforts and in their requisite Comprehensive Plans. For instance, Smart Charlotte 2050, Charlotte
County's new Comprehensive Plan, (adopted in 2010) addresses climate change and sea level rise in the
data and analysis. The Plan states that the County would, "Consider climate change in County decisions
particularly along the coast ". Sarasota County also includes a discussion of sea level rise and climate
change in the data and analysis of its Comprehensive Plan. Several cities, including Punta Gorda and Ft.
Myers Beach also address these issues in their Comprehensive Plans, even though there is no state law
requiring it.
2. Southeast Florida Regional Climate Change Compact
The Southeast Florida Regional Clintate Change
Compact was signed by Broward, Miami -Dade,
Monroe, and Palm Beach Counties in January 2010
to coordinate climate mitigation and adaptation
activities across county lines. The Compact
represents a new form of regional climate
governance designed to allow local governments to
set the agenda for adaptation while providing an
efficient means for state and federal agencies to
engage with technical assistance and support. The
Compact calls for the Counties to work cooperatively
to:
I } Develop annual Team photo from the first Climate Summit held in 2009
Legislative Programs and jointly advocate for state and federal policies and
funding;
2) Dedicate staff time and resources to create a Southeast Florida Regional
Climate Action Plan to include mitigation and adaptation strategies; and
3) Meet annually in Regional Climate Summits to mark progress and identify
emerging issues. ( http:' .•'southeastfloridac .orb ).
3. Monroe County
Independent of the Southeast Florida Regional Climate Change
Compact, Monroe County has also adopted resolutions and policies to
advance climate change resiliency. The list of actions contained in
Appendix A demonstrates the commitment of the Monroe County Board
of County Commission in addressing climate change challenges.
C. PURPOSE, SCOPE AND PROCESS
1. Purpose
n�
The purpose of the Monroe County Community Climate Action Plan (MCAP) is to outline a course of
action for the County government and communities of Monroe County for a coordinated countywide
strategy to minimize climate change impacts and to increase the sustainability of the communities
within the Florida Keys. The MCAP is an attempt to mitigate future impacts by reducing community -
wide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to 201 below 2005 levels by 2020 and to identify local adaptation
needs for protection against future sea level rise. The MCAP has been designed to support three primary
functions:
I. Provide clear guidance to County staff regarding when and how to implement key provisions
of the plan; and
2. Inspire residents and businesses to participate in community efforts to address climate change
issues; and
3. Demonstrate Monroe County's commitment to climate change mitigation and adaptation.
The climate action plan seeks to reduce GHG emissions and adopt mitigation and adaptation
strategies in municipal and community -wide activities_ GHG reductions and climate strategies will be
achieved in the areas of building and community energy use, waste diversion, water conservation, natural
areas, and transportation. The plan contains strategies, objectives, measures, and actions that will direct
the County's efforts by creating a clear course of action so that everyone can have a role in creating and
achieving climate and sustainability goals, this Climate Action Plan drives and coordinates local efforts
toward a reduction in GHG emissions of 20° o below 2005 emission levels by 2020.
2. Scope
This Plan covers goals and strategies for GHG emissions resulting from local government and
community -wide activities within the County. It addresses the major sources of emissions in Monroe
County, Florida and sets forth goals and strategies in 8 focus areas that both the County and community
can implement together to achieve greenhouse gas reductions:
• Policy Coordination(P)
• Identify and Monitor Risks and Vulnerabilities (M)
• Education and Business Development (E)
• Natural Systems (N)
• Built Environment (B)
• Water and Waste Water (W)
• Renewable Energy (R)
• Solid Waste and Recycling (S)
The plan also creates a framework for documenting, coordinating, measuring, and adapting efforts
moving forward.
3. Process
The climate action plan took several years to develop and includes input from County and community
advisory groups, local leaders, stakeholders and staff. Following are of the major steps in the development
process.
Signatory to the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement
In 2005, the U.S. Mayors Clinrale Protection Agreement was launched by Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels,
and initially was signed by 141 mayors from cities across the country. The Agreement urged cities to
take the lead on climate change mitigation, and encouraged state and federal action on this issue. The
primary goal set for the signatories of this Agreement was to meet or exceed the Kyoto Protocol goal of a
7% reduction in GHGs from 1990 levels by 2012. Currently, the Mayor's Agreement has 1,054
signatories. (http ://www.usmayors.org/climatcprotection/apseement.htm )
Counties have also signed on to the Mayor's Agreement, including Monroe County in 2007 (see
Resolution 235 -2007 at h_tt :// fl- monroecounty .eivic ?NID =543 Although the
County does not have baseline GHG data from 1990, it has set its baseline in 2005, and committed to
reduce its GHG emissions 20% below 2005 levels by 2020 (see Resolution No. 067 -2010 at ht_ to:;:. fl-
monroecounty .civicplus.com/index.aspx ?NID =543) The Agreement suggests certain actions that
signatories can take to reduce their GHG emissions. For example, signatories are encouraged to increase
the use and production of renewable energy while updating their building codes and increasing
energy efficiency in public facilities, as well as increase the average fuel efficiency of their fleet through
the incorporation of alternative fuel vehicles.
Monroe County sought to fulfill its obligations to this Mayor's agreement
by increasing awareness of climate change, creating an inventory of GHG
emissions, working on near -term reduction efforts, and setting the GHG
reduction target. The County has also committed to work with regional
partners to develop a comprehensive CAP through participation in the
Southeast Regional Climate Compact. Finally, the County developed an
Energy Efficiency Conservation Strategy which helps the County work
toward its goals by focusing efforts on reducing fossil fuel energy use,
which contributes to the County's carbon footprint which was adopted in
(see Resolution IO2 -2012 & the Energy Efficiency Conservation Strategy
at httv:."
Membership in ICLEI
11f� [lf4[7.�1, MJ CMVfYalls� SInS.p
In 2008, Monroe County joined ICLEI, Cities for Climate Protection Campaign as a full member. ICLEI
is an international association of over 1,220 local governments who have committed to sustainable
development and practices ( http: 'www.iclei.ore) While Monroe County has already begun to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions through a variety of actions, this plan is a critical component of a
comprehensive approach to reducing county emissions. This approach, developed by the Cities for
Climate Protection Campaign identifies the following 5 milestones to reduce GHG emissions associated
with local government operations and the community at large:
Milestone I: Conduct a baseline emissions inventory and forecast
Milestone 2: Adopt an emissions reduction target for the forecast
year
Milestone 3: Develop a local climate action plan
Milestone 4: Implement the climate action plan
Milestone 5: Monitor progress and report results
Monroe County has completed Milestone 1 by using ICLEI's Clean
Air and Climate Protection (CACP) 2009 Software, and established
a 2005 baseline of emissions for County owned and/or controlled
operations. In 2010, the County achieved Milestone 2 by
approving its GHG emissions reduction target. This plan will
achieve Milestone 3. Additionally Monroe County coordinated with
our regional partners to draft appropriate mitigation and adaptation strategies under the Regional CAP,
and the County is already integrating some of these concepts and strategies into our Comprehensive Plan
which is currently being updated. Once the CAP has been adopted and implementation has begun, the
County is committed to monitoring and verifying its progress. This crucial step will allow the County to
adapt its plan to changing conditions and new data as necessary, focusing its efforts and resources in areas
that provide the largest GHG reductions.
Formation of Community Advisory Committees
Green Building Code Task Force Green Initiative Task Force (GITF):
Building Code Task Force was tasked with evaluating and = -
recommending updates to the Monroe County building
codes to increase community energy efficiency and overall
sustainability. Comprised of 10 commission appointees
with representatives from 5 cities, 3 regional utilities, and I
member of the U.S. Navy, the Task Force was renamed the
Green Initiative Task Force (GITF) in 2009 and expanded
its role of responsibilities to (1) include the development of
the GHG emission reduction target, (2) securing the
EECBG Program funding, and (3) drafting the County's
Sustainable Vision Statement (see Green Initiative Task
Force Sustainable Vision Statement at hum' fl-
monroecounty .civicrtluv,.eom/index.asp ?NID X541
In 2008, the county's Green
The Sustainable Vision Statement is a qualitative sustainability strategy for the County, outlining areas
that need improvement as well as opportunities for strategic development. It serves as the foundation for
future planning and was used to aid in the development of the County's Climate Action Plan (MCAP).
Covering a broad number of topics related to County and community sustainability, the Sustainable
Vision Statement suggests actions which guide county operation and provide community guidance on
climate change issues.
Teaching green building concepts at the )expo
The County also adopted the Florida Green Building Coalition's green commercial building standard for
all new construction of County -owned public buildings (see Resolution No. 147 -2010 at http:�f1
monroecounty. eivieplus ,cont/index.aspx ?NID=543 It is important to note that this standard was not
required in plans developed prior to the acceptance of this resolution or adoption of a Florida Statute
requiring that such standards be implemented.
Following the sunset of the GITF in October 20I0, the Climate Change Advisory Committee (CCAC)
was established by the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) in January 2011 as an expansion of the
GITF to include representatives from a broader cross - section of the county. The CCAC is an external
advisory group that is responsible for providing community input on all County - related climate
initiatives, recommending climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies to the BOCC and
developing a Community Climate Action Plan.
The minutes, agendas and member list for the CCAC can be found on the county website at ( http:llfl-
monroecounty.civicolus.com/index.aspx?NID= 386 &ART = 1490 &ADMIN =I) During 201I and 20I2,
the CCAC developed this draft Community Climate Action Plan with recommendations for a coordinated
countywide strategy in mitigating the causes, and addressing the local implications of climate change. The
Monroe County Community Climate Change Action Plan contains 74 recommended actions to be brought
before the Board for approval and implementation in 2013.
III. THE SCIENCE AND DATA
The CCAC determined early in the process that three types of
information would be helpful to guide their recommendations.
These include 1) a projection of sea level rise that might be
anticipated over time in Southeast Florida, 2) a communitywide
greenhouse gas inventory to understand the main sources of
greenhouse emissions in Monroe County and 3) an analysis of the
County's vulnerability to sea level rise should no action be taken
to address sea level rise.
A. CLIMATE SCIENCE
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)'s Fourth
Assessment Report affirms that "warming of the climate system is
unequivocal, as is now evident from increases in global average
air and ocean temperatures, widespread melting of snow and ice
and rising global average sea level. "' The IPCC report also
concluded it is extremely unlikely that global climate change of the
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(h) gk4W average ua ktirI fmm tide gauge (61tu) and
salrllitr (red) data sad (c) Ndabem I lemisphetr snmw com
for %1=h- r►pril The shaded asps relresenl cstimatcd
aecedminties.-
IPCC, 2007: Climate Change 2007: Synthesis Report. Contribution of Working Groups I, II and Ill to the Fourth Assessment
Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [Core Writing Team, Pachauri, RX and Reisinger, A- (eds.)]- IPCC,
Geneva, Switzerland, 104 pp.
past 50 years can be explained without external forcing and eery likely that it is not due to known natural
causes alone.
The burning of fossil fuels and deforestation are causing an increase in greenhouse gases in the Earth's
atmosphere that is driving unprecedented climate change. Post - industrial human activity has
cumulatively created a negative impact on global climate resulting in accelerated changes in climate
change patterns that could threaten the future security and stability of sovereign nations and human
society. .4 The consequences are dramatic and are already being witnessed through increases in the
melting of Arctic sea ice an expansion of the tropical zone poleward 6 and the rate of sea level rise
caused by melting glaciers, the heating (thermal expansion) of the oceans and melting ice sheets in
Greenland and Antarctica 7 . For instance, in the last 80 years, there has been an average 9" sea level rise
in south Florida,`
According to most scenarios, continued human emissions of greenhouse gases at current and projected
levels will lead to more dramatic and accelerated, potentially even catastrophic, changes in the Earth's
natural climate patterns. Given the continued rate of emissions and the atmospheric lifetime of those
emissions, global temperatures are expected to rise and climate change is expected to worsen even if tine
stopped emitting greenhouse gases immediately and completely. Specifically, as reported by the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change ( "IPCC ") a warming of about 0.2 °F per decade is
expected for the foreseeable future, and even if
greenhouse gases had been "kept constant at year 2000
levels, a further warming of about 0.17 per decade
would be expected." -
While historic evidence of climate change (global
warming), is well understood and documented, the
uncertainty about potential future impacts is large.
Although it is clear that human - produced greenhouse
gases is causing unprecedented warming of our
atmosphere and oceans, it is more uncertain, what the
rate and magnitude of this trend will be into the future -
because it is dependent on both complex feedback loops
(ice sheet degradation, methane releases from permafrost
and the deep ocean and albedo effects) and on how
quickly global greenhouse gas emissions are reduced.
Changes in CO2 (blue) and Temperature (rent) far put 350,000 years.
3 Global Business Network. 2007. Impacts of climate change A system vulnerability approach to consider the potential impacts
to 2050 of a mid -level greenhouse gas emissions scenario. Copies available at A_K} ��cttwn{clirnatechanp
4 The CNA Corporation. 2007. National security and the threat of climate change. Available from
ua�:w_securiJ ya ndel imiitc, cn n,t}rs:
3 National Snow & Ice Data Center, ht� 9tic. rrh1
6 Seidel, D.1., Q. Fu, W. J. Randall, T. J. Reichler. 2008. Widening of the tropical belt in a changing climate. Nature
Geoscience 1:21 -24.
7 Bindofl; N.L. and others. 2007. Observations: Oceanic climate change and sea level. In Climate change 2007; The physical
science basis. Contributions of Working Group I to the Fourth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate
Change. Solomon, S, and others (eds.) Cambridge University Press.
9 Miami -Dade County Climate Change Task Force, Science and Technology Committee- 2008. Statement on sea level in the
coming century. 9 pages.
9 Bindoff, N.L. and others. 2007. Chapter 5. Observations: Oceanic climate change and sea level. In Climate change 2007: The
physical science basis. Contributions of Working Group I to the Fourth Assessment Report of the Intergovern mental Panel on
Climate Change Solomon, S. and others (eds.) Cambridge University Press.
Vermeer and Rahmstorf concluded that emission reductions early in this century will be much
more effective in limiting sea -level rise than reductions later on.
The long -term costs of implementing adaptation
requirements due to inaction or too little action
today and the subsequent negative consequences
to the economy and social structure makes it
necessary to implement mitigation and
adaptation actions now to prevent or minimize
these long -term costs; even while recognizing it
may be more costly in the short -term. Unusual
droughts, Arctic sea ice disappearance, complete
melting of the surface of the Greenland ice sheet
and glacial discharges from Greenland and
Antarctica are unprecedented events that indicate we are already witnessing the initial disruptive effects
of climate change.
Temperatures & CO2 Increasing Globally
Human induced atmospheric carbon dioxide levels now exceed 390 part per million, greater than any time
in the past 350,000 years (Figure 2) It is noteworthy that temperature and CO2 increase concurrently
and that present levels of CO2 will lead to temperatures greater than human civilizations have to date
experienced at any time in the past. The time for action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is now if we
want to avoid catastrophic disruptions to the health and well -being of future generations.
Analysis by NASA's Goddard Institute for Space Studies shows that global average surface temperatures
in 2010 "tied" 2005 as the warmest on record 12 . The next hottest years, also with very close average
temperatures, are 1998, 2002, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2009 and 20I1. The period from January 2000 to
December 2009 is the warmest decade on record, followed by the 1990's, then the 1980's respectively.
These remarkable yearly and decadal trends, based on the Goddard Institute's global average surface
temperature analysis, GIb I LAW, are tracked from
1880 to 2011 (Figure 3).
Arctic Sea Ice
Increasing summer temperatures are causing
substantially above - normal Arctic Sea ice melting
The September 2012 minimum was significantly
below the 1979 to 2000 average minimum,
representing an area nearly twice the size of the state
of Alaska. The 2012 minimum was 18% below 2007
and 49 ° °o below the I979 to 2000 average.
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Arctic sea ice cxtcnl as of September 17.2012. along with daily ice extent
data fur 2007 and 2005 the prc"ous record low years. The gray area around
theaysragc line shows the two standard deviation range of the data From
National Snow and Ice Data Centers blip 'nside urg arcnssem¢nmw
10 Vermeer, M. and S. Rahmstorf. 2009. Global sea level linked to global temperature. PNAS 106(5):21527 - 21532.
11 National Academy of Sciences 2008, Understanding and Responding to Climate Change. hktn, ". del s- old.nas.cdu busiw'c limatc-
changt- basics.shtmI.
12 Goddard Institute for Space Studies, http:. "•'www- nasa.gov. topics earth features12011- temps.html
13 National Snow & Ice Data Center, http; "nsidc.org/
The six lowest seasonal minimum Arctic Sea ice extents in the satellite record have all occurred in the last
six years (2007 to 2012).
The melting of Arctic Sea ice does not directly contribute to sea level rise but it does cause additional
warming of the Arctic Sea because the water absorbs more heat from the sun than does ice.
Consequently, as the Arctic Sea adjacent to Greenland warms, it will increase the rate of melting of those
glaciers that rest on the seabed, thus accelerating the loss of the Greenland ice sheet that does cause an
increase in sea level.
Sea Level Rise Projections
Although floating ice, like Arctic Sea Ice, does not contribute to sea level rise, the melting of land -based
glaciers and continental ice sheets (Greenland and Antarctica) do. To date, most of the observed sea
level increases has been due to thermal expansion of the existing oceans as ocean temperatures have
increased. However, the rate of seal level rise is increasing and is expected to continue due to greater
melting of glaciers and ice sheets. Projections of future sea level rise predicted on increased land -based
ice melting and on how quickly civilization can curb and reduce CO2 emissions.
Because the impacts of climate change vary geographically, it is important to know what effects are
specifically expected for South Florida and the Florida Keys. According to the U.S. Global Change
Research Program, the Southeast region of the United States should expect the following impacts from
climate change to occur in the coming years 14 :
• Projected increases in air and water
temperatures will cause heat- related stresses
for people, plants, and animals.
• Decreased water availability is very likely
to affect the region's economy as well as its
natural systems.
• Sea -level rise and the likely increase in
hurricane intensity and associated storm
surge will be among the most serious
consequences of climate change.
• Ecological thresholds are likely to be crossed
throughout the region, causing major
disruptions to ecosystems and to the benefits
they provide to people.
• Quality of life will be affected by increasing
heat stress, water scarcity, severe weather
events, and reduced availability of insurance
for at -risk properties. Cities and agriculture
face increasing risks from a changing climate.
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Unified Southeast Florida Sea Level Rise Projection for Regional
Planning Purposes. Projections use historic Key West tidal data and the
United States Army Corps of Engineers Guidance (USACE 2009)
intermediate and high curves to represent the lower and upper bound for
projected sea level rise
In terms of Florida- specific impacts, the Florida Energy Commission (CEC) issued a report in 2006
detailing anticipated changes for the state. The report details specific impacts related to several sectors
and finds that "climate change impacts will affect all of the sectors considered in this report: sea level
rise, agriculture, snowpack and water supply, forestry, wildfire risk, public health, and electricity demand
14 Global Climate Change Impacts in the United States. Thomas R. Karl, Jerry M. Melillo, and Thomas C. Peterson, (eds.).
Cambridge University Press, 2009. And www.globalchange.gov
Monroe Cott ntN' Climate Act i
P at;cl
1980 1990 2000 7010 2070 2030 2040 7050 2060
and supply. " The report analyzed low, mid, and high emissions scenarios, noting that "all climate
models show increases in temperature, with the aggregate of several model runs containing a range of
warming from 2000 to 2100 from about +2 °C to about +6 °C ( +3.6 °F to about +10.8 °F). Increases in
temperature alone would impact the Florida hydrological cycle, with consequences upon the state's water
supply, hydroelectric power supply, agriculture, recreation, and ecosystems." Additionally, "Climate
change could produce compounding impacts —for instance, in the South Florida area, heightened sea
levels can jeopardize our drinking water supply in periods of prolong droughts and threaten flooding
during periods of increased rains."
The Florida Keys are on the front lines of climate change impacts such as sea level rise and increased
hurricane intensity. While GHG emissions produced within the Monroe County region constitute only a
small percentage of national and global quantities, Monroe County, because of our unique vulnerabilities
to sea -level rise and our international presence as a premier tourist destination, has an opportunity to
demonstrate leadership on this global issue by implementing the critical policies, practices and
investments that will eventually drive reductions of GHG emissions and plan for the impacts of climate
change. We clearly have the most to lose. If sea -level rise is not curtailed by immediate reductions in
greenhouse gases the Florida Keys will eventually become unlivable.
B. VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT
While climate change is the most important challenge facing our world and region today, our realization
of the problem now represents a significant opportunity for leadership and a change to insure a
sustainable future. Thus, this Monroe County Community Climate Action Plan ( "MCAP ") carries an
even stronger message of optimism than a work plan limited only to addressing the worst impacts of
climate change. The vision behind this MCAP is one of a better future for the Monroe County
community, economy and environment.
With a warmer atmosphere and ocean, hurricane frequency in the Atlantic Ocean is expected to decrease
but the intensity of hurricanes is expected to increase 16 as heat is the main driving force for hurricane
intensity.
15 Scenarios of Climate Change in Florida: An Overview. Dan Cayan, Amy Lynd Luers, Michael Hanemann, Guido Franco, Bart
Croes, (eds.). •=http':'www. energy .ca.gov /2005publications /CEC -500- 2005- 186fCEC- 500 -2005- 186- SF.PDF >.
is Knutson, T. R, and others. 2010. Tropical cyclones and climate change. Nature Geoscience 3:157 -163.
The "business as usual" scenario was developed by county G1S staff and provided an analysis of
vulnerability of major infrastructure at three sea level rise scenarios. A mapping exercise conducted by
the Planning Department indicated major areas at risk of tidal flooding due to sea level rise. The mapping
showed that I foot of sea level rise will substantially affect households, businesses and county
infrastructure. There is a greater than 75% certainty the 6.82 percent of developed land would be
impacted by a one foot rise in sea level. With a two foot rise, the impact is multiplied 14.19 percent of
developed land would be vulnerable. The three foot scenario shows impacts to 28.58 percent of
infrastructure and developed land. The inundation models show that the cost of inaction would be
tremendous. (See Monroe County Inundation Maps at:
http:// fl- monroccounty .civicplus.com/index.aspx ?N]D =543 )
Local impacts related to climate change, especially sea level rise, are already occurring. Critical public
infrastructure including beaches, roadways and especially storm water drainage treatment and conveyance
systems have already begun to show vulnerabilities to the current rate of rise of sea level, extreme rainfall
and seasonal high tides. Coastal communities have begun to seek infrastructure improvements to address
mounting drainage concerns. The predicted accelerated rate of sea level rise will further exacerbate the
impact of saltwater intrusion on our source of drinking water and on coastal habitats. Climate- related
challenges currently exist suggesting action to address these issues is needed today.
C. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
Emissions Must be Reduced
The buildup of greenhouse gases in our atmosphere is conceivably even more extraordinary than changes
observed thus far regarding temperature, sea level, and snow cover in the Northern hemisphere in that
current levels greatly exceed recorded precedent going back much further than the modern temperature
record. The latest monthly average atmospheric CO concentration, for December 2010, as measured at
Mauna Loa Observatory, Hawaii, was 389.69 parts per million (ppm)."
Global Greenhouse Gas Emissions
According to the Director of the Goddard Institute, Dr. James
Hansen, "If the warming trend continues, as is expected, if
greenhouse gases continue to increase, the 2010 [temperature]
record will not stand for long." M In response to the problem of
climate change, many communities in the United States are
taking responsibility for addressing emissions at the local
level. Since many of the major sources of greenhouse gas
emissions are directly or indirectly controlled through local
policies, local governments have a strong role to play in
reducing greenhouse gas emissions within their boundaries.
Through proactive measures around land use patterns,
transportation demand management, energy efficiency, green
building, and waste diversion, local governments can
dramatically reduce emissions in their communities. In
addition, local governments are primarily responsible for the provision of emergency services and the
mitigation of natural disaster impacts. While this Plan is designed to reduce overall emissions levels, as
I.. NOAA/ESRL, Dr. Pieter Tans, 2011, 18 Jan.:http7 www.esri.noaa.gov gmd/ccgg/trenda -.
Is Goddard Institute for Space Studies, "Research Finds 2010 Tied for Wartnest Year on Record," 2011, 18 Jan.
<http: www. nasa .gov'topi&carth/features/2010- warmest- year,html
Monroe Count% Climate Action Plan
the effects of climate change become more common and severe, local government adaptation policies will
be fundamental in preserving the welfare of residents and businesses.
Through the completion of a local emissions study, or "greenhouse gas inventory," our County has
determined emissions levels for the community as a whole and for Monroe County, Florida government
operations. Community -wide emissions represent the sum total of emissions produced within County
limits as well as emissions resulting from electricity use within the jurisdiction, even if said electricity is
generated elsewhere. In this way, the community -wide figures represent all major emissions for which the
community is responsible.
Monroe County Communitywide Greenhouse Gas Inventory
The Monroe County Extension Service staff conducted a communitywide greenhouse gas emissions
inventory. This inventory, based on emissions from 2005, 2008 and 2010, served as the basis the
Greenhouse Gas reduction recommendations. The use of gasoline and diesel fuel in the Transportation
sector accounts for 38 of the County's current emission of greenhouse gas. The Residential sector
(28 %) and the Commercial sector (21%) o) represent the bulk of emissions due primarily to the use of
electricity. The need for communitywide reductions in these sectors is reflected in the recommendations.
A 2011 inventory update will provide for a mechanism to measure progress and improve reduction
strategies in the future.
Emissions from the County's municipal operations are embedded within the community -wide totals. For
example, emissions from government buildings are included in the "Commercial" sector and emissions
from County fleet vehicles are included in the "Transportation" figure above. Government operations are
therefore a subset of total community emissions. The outcome for Monroe County Community Emissions
include adoption of a 20% reduction of the 2005 baseline equals a target for 1,510,819 MT CO2e in 2020
a reduction of 377,742 MT CO2e.
Year
Residential Commercial
Industrial
Transportation
Waste
TOTAL
2005
468,969
328,126
126,913
1 642,931
321,622
1,888,561
(24.83 %)
(17.37 %)
(6.72 °'0)
(34.04°1v)
(17,0 4%)
2008
464,437
331,037
121,353
598,315
f 58,835
1,573,977
(29.51 %)
(21.03 %)
(7.71 %)
(38.01 %)
(3.74°/6)
2010
442,166
330,279
119,973
593,012
56,974
1,542,404
(28.67%)
(21.41 %)
(7.78 %)
(38.45 %)
(3.69 %)
°lo
- 5.7154/6 0.656%
- 5.468% - 7.764 %
- 92.285%
- 18.329%
Change
(26,803) (2,153)
(6,940) (49,919)
* (264,648)
(346,157)
(MT
CO2e)
* A good portion of the reduction was realized through the change in waste disposal methods. This change should
not be discounted as many communities are looking to reduce emissions through alternatives to landfill waste
disposal. Consideration should be given to decrease the target emissions and increase the reduction goal.
County Operations Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions:
Monroe County Municipal Operation GHG inventory and Energy Efficiency Conservation Strategy
(EECS) has been designed using the following guiding principles:
1) reduce energy consumption associated with County operations and facilities;
2) reduce GHG emissions intrinsic to energy consumption in County operations; and
3) create new demand for green jobs and sustainable industry.
The County will use these guiding principles to assists in meeting the County's stated goals of a municipal
reduction of GHG 20% below 2005 levels by 2020.
The County selected calendar year 2005 as its baseline, and during that time period, operations consumed
15,968,524 kWh of electricity, 166,692 gallons of gasoline, and 74,132 gallons of diesel. Total energy
expenditures in that year were $2,599,255. Data were gathered from utility and fuel bills as well as
historical accounting information. As a member of the International Council for Local Environmental
Initiatives (ICLEI), the County used this organization's software to enter energy consumption figures and
calculate GHG emissions. In 2005, the County emitted 11,853 metric tons ofCO2 equivalents (CO,e).
To achieve the stated reduction goals, the EECS provides a performance framework to measure energy
consumption and emissions, take actions to reduce them, measure the results, and cross -check them
against the needed progress toward the 2020 goal. The framework provides Key Performance
Indicators (KPIs, commonly referred to as 'metrics'), a proposed interim target (10 0 •0 reduction below
2005 levels by 2015), and the ultimate 20 1 !.0 reduction goal for all KPIs.
Using this framework and baseline levels for KPIs, by 2020 the County will strive to
1) Reduce its electricity consumption from 15,968,524 kWh to 13,808,461 kWh;
2) Reduce its gasoline consumption from 166,692 gallons to 136,537 gallons; and,
3) Reduce its diesel consumption from 74,132 gallons to 59,354 gallons.
These consumption reductions correspond to reductions in GHG emissions of 1919 MT CO 300 MT
CO and 152 MT CO respectively.
County Municipal Sources
Calendar Year 2005
Metric Tons CO2e
Buildings and Facilities
7,421
Streetlights and Traffic Signals
823
Airport Facilities
1,353
Vehicle Fleet (Gasoline)
1,499
Vehicle Fleet (Diesel)
758
Total
11,853
This table illustrates Monroe County's Municipal greenhouse gas emissions by source type in metric tons (MT) of
CO.e. Emissions from electricity consumption in County -owned and operated buildings and facilities represents
63 1 n of the total 2005 GHG inventory, with the next largest source type being gasoline- powered fleet vehicles at
13%.
Projected Growth in GHG Emissions
For complete information regarding the emissions inventory and forecast, including methodology and
supporting data, please reference the Monroe County, Florida GHG Emissions Inventory Reports (see
Monroe Community Greenhouse Gas Inventory CY2010 at http: i l-
monroecounty.civicp lus.com/ind ?NID= 543; .
The County has also estimate an emissions forecast based on projections of current data and expected
future trends. The emissions forecast is a "Business As Usual" forecast, a scenario estimating future
emissions levels if no further local action (i.e. projects within this Climate Action Plan) were to take
place. The forecast indicates that for the purposes of this MCAP, Monroe County will experience little or
no population growth between 2012 and 2020. ( httv::`/kvys o mpplan.co m.'systein'n-
content/uploads/2011 i U4N o nro o20C'ountY %20-
20 U nincoMorated'%2 U N(i lati on°a20Prc iec Boris°4?0FINAL %20DCAR roved °'o24��- 5- 11.pdfi
Monroe County's Greenhouse Gas Reduction Target
Monroe County has set targets to reduce its emissions to 20 percent below 2005 levels by 2020. The
combination of measures that Monroe County has already implemented, is currently planned, and is
presented through this Climate Action Plan is designed to achieve this target. Reductions rely on the best
information currently available pertaining to population forecasts, future changes to building codes, and
vehicle fuel efficiency standards among other information.
Shown in the picture to the left is the county courthouse located in Key
West. It was one of four buildings in the "Jackson Square" complex to
receive energy upgrades as a result of a federal grant through the State's
Energy Office, to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy costs.
IV. RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE CLIMATE ACTION PLAN
The summary table below identifies the focus areas within the Monroe County Climate Action Plan, the
number of strategies within each focus area, and the contribution of each focus area toward the GHG
reduction goal. Each focus area has a dedicated section within this document where specific actions (both
new and those already employed) are described.
While the Monroe County local government cannot address climate change by itself, government policies
and practices can dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions from a range of sources and help prepare
Monroe County for the anticipated impacts of climate change. In addition, Monroe County will assist
residents and businesses in their endeavors to reduce emissions through programs explained in this Plan.
By working together, Monroe County can not only do its part toward achieving a stable climate - we can
reap the benefits of healthier air, lower costs for utilities and services, improved transportation and
accessibility, a more vibrant local economy, and many other positive side effects of reducing our carbon
footprint.
Monroe County Climate Action Plan Summary Table — Focus Areas
Description Number of
Focus Area Distinct
Strata Les
F Policies and actions that include leadership and long term
planning to address climate adaptation and mitigation needs.
10
Actions to identify and monitor the most vulnerable areas and
` facilities that will be affected by sea level rise in Monroe County.
7
t Actions that will increase awareness of change impacts and
6
promote local business development response.
Policies and actions to identify vulnerable natural landscapes and
increase resilience through implementation of strategies.
7
Policies and strategies to promote sustainable practices and
efficiency, develop adaptation measures, and reduce GHG
15
emissions.
Policies and programs to reduce water demands protect supply
and address wastewater treatment needs.
12
Policies and strategies to promote local renewable energy uses
` and development.
5
Policies and programs to reduce waste generation and, promote
recycling.
12
A. CLIMATE CHANGE ADVISORY COMMITTEE TOP 6 RANKED
RECOMMENDATIONS
The committee took on the task of ranking the recommendations into three categories:
• High -- Critical project, will not meet Task Force mission without it
• Medium -- Important project with significant outcomes, worthy of consideration and resources
• Low -- Important but mitigation and/or adaptation outcomes may not merit implementation with
current resources; implement if resources allow.
The CCAC reviewed and approved 72 recommendations which were deemed critical and important to the
meet the challenges of climate change. These recommendations represent a cross - section of natural,
urban, local and regional interests reflective of the diversity of the County, its collaborative nature and
regional focus.
Listed below are the top 6 recommendations that the Climate Change Advisory Committee recommends
as priority items. Some type of action has already been taken on several of the total 72 ranked actions.
TOP 6 RECOMMENDATIONS
Action P -2.1: Revise Monroe County Comprehensive Plan to address strategic
planning related to climate change mitigation and adaptation needs.
Action P -1.1: Develop an implementation strategy for the Monroe County
Community Climate Action Plan.
Action P -2.3: Create policies for future development to incorporate sea level
rise inundation vuInerabiIities for the life expectancy of the infrastructure.
Action M -2.2: Use improved inundation mapping to identify the sections of
roadways, critical structures and natural areas that will be
affected by sea level rise projections,.
Action P -1.3: Provide advocacy and leadership for adoption of climate change
policies and legislation with local, state, and federal entities.
Action P -2 4: Incorporate "Adaptation Action Area" designation into local
comprehensive plans and regional planning documents to identify
those areas deemed most vulnerable to sea level rise and other
climate change impacts,
B. BENEFITS OF CLIMATE PROTECTION MEASURES
In addition to addressing climate change, measures taken to reduce greenhouse gas emissions have other
important benefits. The most obvious of these is the potential for significant cost savings. In 2008,
Monroe County spent over $3,107,000 on energy to power buildings and fuel its vehicle fleet. Many
of the measures in this plan "pay for themselves" quickly by reducing direct costs, such as fuel or energy
used, and also indirect costs such as maintenance. For instance, a "right- sized" vehicle fleet is less
expensive to purchase and fuel, while also being less costly to maintain.
A key strategic side benefit of climate change mitigation activities is enhanced energy security through
reduction in total demand. Climate protection measures can also spur business and job growth during
the design, manufacture, and installation of energy efficient technologies. Climate change mitigation
activities, particularly those related to transportation, help to clean the air by reducing vehicle emissions.
Finally, mitigation activities help to engender a greater degree of choice for Monroe County residents. For
instance, more transit options combined with transit - oriented development practices make for a more
vibrant, livable community.
In light of the compositional changes already made to Earth's atmosphere, we have already set the planet
on a course for some degree of climate change. Many of the actions identified here to mitigate GHG
emissions will also help government, businesses, and residents to adapt to a changing climate. For
example, extreme and prolonged heat waves can put considerable strain on the reliability of energy
delivery in peak periods; possibly leading to service disruption during times when cooling is most needed.
By increasing efficiency across Monroe County, such service disruptions are less likely and the County
will be able to better cope with those situations. Additional measures aimed solely at climate adaptation,
such as modifying flood protection and heat emergency response programs will also be addressed in this
Climate Action Plan.
In addition to this Community Climate Action Plan, Monroe County is also addressing climate and
energy issues through inclusion of a Climate and Energy Element in its Comprehensive Plan that is being
updated (see http: //keyscc - )m]2plan.conVsv stem /w c ontent/uploads; 2010'02:'7 6.0- E ne_r y v_°- Conservatio_ n -
and- Climate2.pdf1
C. FOCUS AREAS
Each of the focus areas within the Monroe County Community Climate Action Plan is explored in the
following pages. In each focus area, goals with supporting strategies are explored. A Goal is an objective,
end result, or target that supports a focus area and an Action is a means of realizing the objective. Each
focus area draws on the actions of both the local government and Monroe County, Florida residents and
businesses, although some areas may be largely one or the other.
Focus Area]: Crass - Cutting Goals & Strategies
Several focus areas are considered cross - cutting strategies because they are integral to successful
implementation of the other focus areas. The first three focus areas; Policy Coordination, Identify and
Monitor Risks, as well as Education and Business Development are cross - cutting focus areas which will
build on the other focus areas. Given the broad reach and embedded nature of the goals for these focus
areas, emission reductions were not calculated for these focus areas. Emission calculations are listed for
actions in the other focus areas wherever possible.
Efficiency is a critical and common component of this plan. Energy, water and fuel efficiency strategies
are woven into all of the focus areas.
Focus Area Z: Government Operations & Community Goals & Strategies
Government operations strategies are specific to the internal operations of Monroe County, Florida. They
apply to buildings Monroe County owns or leases, vehicles used to provide services, lighting of
roadways, etc. Community strategies require involvement and participation from citizens. Each action is
noted as one or both of these.
Focus Area 3: Emissions Reductions
Calculating expected emissions reductions for each goal requires making assumptions about degree of
implementation, technology, and individual behavioral changes several years into the future. The
uncertainty associated with these assumptions makes it difficult to assign exact reduction totals to each
goal or action item. To address this uncertainty and provide a simple but useful reference for reduction
potential, a series of symbols and percentage ranges has been devised to represent the emission reductions
associated with each goal and its strategies. Specific implementation assumptions and GHG reduction
estimates are listed in the Appendix.
Focus Area 4. New and Existing Actions
This Climate Action Plan includes a combination of existing policies and programs as well as new ideas
based on best practices from around the country.
V. CLIMATE ACTION PLAN GOALS & ACTION ITEMS
Priority Rankings of Recommended Action Items:
• High -- Critical project, will not meet
Climate Action Plan mission without it
• Medium -- Important project with
significant outcomes, worthy of consideration
and resources
• Low — Important but mitigation and/or
adaptation outcomes may not merit
implementation with current resources;
implement if resources allow
Planning Horizon:
Each action item has associated implementation actions, indicators to track progress, and timelines.
Implementation timelines are broken down into three phases:
• Short -term: 2013 -2014
• Mid -term: 2015 -2016
• Long -term: 2017 -2020
These periods sync with the 2020 target identified and makes the Plan consistent with the State timelines
for implementation.
For each action, the County will assign performance targets that will provide guidance on the overall
progress toward the goals. Staff will be responsible for communicating these in the Progress indicator
Timelines for each action item.
Staff Comments are included in red italics.
A. POLICY COORDINATION
The goal is to create collaborative intergovernmental practices and mechanisms in Monroe County that
serve as a tool for the County, municipalities and other public and private entities to reduce countywide
greenhouse gas emissions to 20% below 2005 by 2020. This can be done by coordinating strategies,
programs, and other sustainable initiatives that mitigate the causes and assist in adaptation to the
regional consequences of climate change, with special emphasis on intergovernmental coordination of
adaptation activities. The Policy Coordination section includes two goals on climate leadership and the
Monroe County Comprehensive Plan with 6 and 4 supporting strategic action items, respectively.
Goal P -1 : Leadership. Create collaborative community and intergovernmental practices in
Monroe County that serve as a tool for the County, municipalities, and other entities to
address climate change mitigation and adaptation needs.
P -l.l: Develop an implementation strategy for the Monroe
County Community Climate Action Plan.
Monroe County should assign a working group of employees
the task of developing an implementation strategy for the
Community Climate Action Plan for adoption by the BOCC.
This should include measurable objectives, specific
department/personnel assignments and cost estimates.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Short -term
Implementation strategy will be developed as part of the
Sustainability Master Plan currently under contract.
P -I.2: Provide resources and leadership to the Southeast Florida Climate Change Compact to advance
mitigation and adaptation efforts to address the potential negative impacts related to cli►nate variability
and change.
Monroe County is the most vulnerable partner within the SE FL Compact with respect to climate change
induced sea level increases. Not only is our primary source of drinking water threatened by sea level rise,
but our very homes, businesses and infrastructure are also directly at risk. The County should continue to
actively support the implementation of a Regional Collaborative Climate Action Plan with the
neighboring counties through the Southeast Florida Regional Climate Compact to address the impacts
of sea level rise and other related climate change impacts.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Short-term
The County is an active member of the Compact and has committed to providing staff resources to this
on -going effort.
P-1.3: Provide advocacy and leadership for adoption of climate change policies and legislation with
local, state, and federal entities.
Encourage all agencies, utilities and franchisees operating
within Monroe County to adopt climate change
mitigation plans to minimize greenhouse gas emissions
and adaptation plans to minimize potential impacts of sea
level rise. Monroe County should collaborate with local
municipalities and other public and private entities to
coordinate, develop, and implement a suite of planning
tools to address climate change mitigation and
adaptation strategies.
Monroe
Teaching at the GLEE Energy Expo leadership
legislation
County should continue to demonstrate
in advocacy for climate change issues and
to the National Association of Counties,
Florida Association of Counties and the Florida League of Cities, and in Washington, DC and
Tallahassee. Support proactive environmental and climate change public policies and standards that
support adaptation funding to meet those needs.
An example of such an effort would be to work with local utilities to research incorporation of "smart
metering ", "smart load management" devices, the potential benefits of solar power as distributed
generators and electric cars as household storage systems. Similarly, the Florida Keys Aqueduct
Authority could be encouraged to implement innovative measures for increasing their energy efficiencies
and reducing water withdrawals.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Short-term
This is a continuation of existing efforts.
P -1.4 Action: Maintain and support a Monroe County Sustainability Office.
Monroe County should maintain and support a Sustainability Office to provide an identified point of
contact for the County's sustainability related issues. Activities of the office should include oversight of
energy efficiency and climate change policies, initiatives, and sustainability programs, countywide
coordination to local governments, development of climate mitigation and adaptation plans and
implementation strategies, and to serve as liaison and support for multi- county climate change strategies
and agencies in which Monroe County participates.
The office should identify governmental and community adaptation needs, educate employees; identify
sources for future grants; and provide/advise-'encourage sustainability actions, best management practices,
and energy efficiency for Monroe County government operations and the communities within the County.
A mechanism needs to be developed to direct a percentage of the savings from energy efficiency
measures and grant monies to fund the Sustainability Office with minimal dependence on ad- valorem
taxes.
Priority: High
Planning Horizon: Short-term
This is a continuation of existing efforts.
P -1.S: Provide staff and resources to an inter - departmental task to 1) address energy efficiencies
and adaptation needs for BOCC government operations and 2) development of an implementation:
strategy for the Monroe County Community Climate Action Plan.
Monroe County should provide support for an active
Energy Reduction Task Force to effect the target reduction
adopted by the BOCC in 2010 of at least a 20 reduction
in energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions
below 2005 levels by 2020. This goal is to be
accomplished through completion of a Governmental
Operations Climate Action Plan for operations under the
purview of the BOCC. In addition, Monroe County will
need to assign a working group of employees the task of
developing an implementation strategy for the Community
Climate Action Plan for adoption by the BOCC.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Short -term
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Implementation strategy will be developed as part of the Sustainability Master Plat currently tinder
contract.
Action P -1.6: Maintain a community BOCC Climate Change Advisory Coniniittee
Monroe County should maintain an advisory committee to assist and advise elected officials and the
Office of Sustainability on climate related issues. An advisory committee similar to the existing one is an
ideal forum for community coordination in the important area of addressing climate change needs in
Monroe County.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Short -term
This is a continuation of existing efforts.
Goal P -Z : Comprehensive Plan Integrate climate change planning into Monroe County's
Comprehensive Plan and climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies into the Land
Development Regulations.
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P -2.1: Revise Monroe County's Comprehensive Plan
to address strategic planning related to climate change
mitigation and adaptation needs.
The Monroe County Comprehensive Plan should
include strategies to address the impacts of climate
change. Adaptive management principles should be
used to continually review and revise climate mitigation
and adaptation policies, objectives, and Land
Development Regulations. Revisions to the Plan should
include:
• Creating a Climate Change Element within the
Monroe County Comprehensive Plan which can be
a model to other local government efforts.
• Address greenhouse gas reduction and energy conservation strategies that promote compact, bicycle
and pedestrian - friendly development; increase public transportation; reduce reliance on automobiles,
the construction of energy efficient buildings; and address the potential effects of rising sea levels,
and other climate change issues.
• Consider climate change impacts as a factor in evaluating land use proposals.
• Include climate change mitigation and adaptation in all relevant elements of the Comprehensive Plan
including; future land use, transportation, infrastructure, coastal management, conservation,
recreation and open space, intergovernmental coordination, and capital improvements.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Short-term
The Comp Plait includes an Enemy & Climate Element
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P -2.2: Incorporate the "Adaptation Action Area" designation, into local comprehensive plans and
regional planning documents to identify those areas deemed most vulnerable to sea level rise and other
climate change impacts.
"Adaptation action area" or "adaptation area" means a
designation in the coastal management element of a local
government's comprehensive plan which identifies one
or more areas that experience coastal flooding due to
extreme high tides and storm surge, and that are
vulnerable to the related impacts of rising sea levels for
the purpose of prioritizing funding for infrastructure
needs and adaptation planning." §163.3164(1), F.S.
(2011). Adaptation Action Areas will include the built
environment as well as natural areas and be used as a
development tool to guide policies and regulations that
will serve to reduce future risk and economic losses
associated with sea level rise. Adaptation Action Areas
will account for both existing and needed infrastructure.
Vulnerable natural areas can be protected by directing
development to non - vulnerable areas.
Priority: Planning Horizon: Mid -term
Growth Management will be evaluating various alternatives for AAA's. They do not anticipate
designating action areas in the near term.
B. IDENTIFY AND MONITOR RISKS & VULNERABILITIES
Monroe County should take advantage of all available tools and resources to complete the task of
determining where the impacts of climate change will first occur, and what should be done to assure
sustainability.
To assist in making planning decisions, actions include a series of mapping, modeling and monitoring
measures to identify vulnerable areas and risks. These include improved analysis and mapping
capabilities for identifying areas at risk in the County that are vulnerable to sea level rise by utilizing the
most recent LiDAR data; encouraging dedicated state and federal funding sources for reoccurring and
continued development of local integrated modeling efforts and continuous data gathering; and
collaborating with adjacent counties to establish an integrated network of early warning signs that track
long -term changes across the Southeast Florida region.
The Identify and Monitor Risla and Vulnerabilities section contains three goals related to coordination of
technical information, identifying vulnerabilities and monitoring adaptation needs with 2, 2, and 3
supporting strategic action items, respectively.
A vulnerable beach area on Boca Chica.
Goal M -1: Coordinate with peer organizations and assure availability of up -to -date scientific and
technical information.
M -l. l: Encourage and participate in long -term regional modeling.
Monroe County should participate in the long -term and regional modeling efforts including
hydrologic, geologic, and groundwater quality and levels; water quality (including
precipitation; and groundwater withdrawals.
Encourage and seek dedicated local, state and federal
funding for modeling efforts and data gathering including
monitoring of scientific data that improves our knowledge
of climate change impacts for Southeast Florida and the
down - scaling of global climate models to enable increased
awareness of climate change predictions for Monroe
County.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Short-term
Orr going (all planning horizons)
tide gauges;
temperature);
M -1.2: Seek technical support front state and federal agencies and universities for development of
climate change scenarios appropriate for Monroe County.
Monroe County shall engage the support of state and federal agencies (e.g., FDEP, FDOT, SFWMD,
NOAA, USGS, FEMA, USFWS, USACE), and universities that can provide technological and logistical
support and work with state, county, and local planning bodies to develop regional scenarios of climate
change and analyze potential changes in vulnerability.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Short-term
Goal M -2: Identify the most vulnerable areas and facilities that will be affected by sea level rise in
Monroe County.
M -2.1: Improve inundation mapping and uodeling
Improve current analysis and mapping capabilities to identify areas of the county vulnerable to sea level
rise by utilizing the best available LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) elevation data, GIS, aerial
photography and other appropriate data, including direct observation at spring high tides. Initial analyses
should focus on levels of sea level rise projected by the Southeast Florida Regional Climate Change
Compact Counties, Technical Working Group report, "R un fed sea level rise projection for South
Florida ", April 2011. Those projections included a range of sea level rise of 3 -7 inches by 2030 and 9 -24
inches by 2060. Similar ranges have been adopted by the USACOE and the SFWMD.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Short-term
SE FL Regional Climate Compact
Mid to long term
M -2.2: Use improved inundation mapping to identify the sections of roadways, critical structures and
natural areas that will be affected by sea level rise projections.
Now that airports, hospitals, schools etc. have been mapped,
expand the mapping of potential sea level rise impacts to the
natural and built environments. Identify critical elements of
our residential and business community infrastructure
(natural areas, county roads, community centers, shopping
areas, etc.) that will be affected by the increased flooding
caused by sea level rise impacts during regular and extreme
high tides. p
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Short-term
Mid to long term
Implementation strategy will be developed as part of the
Sustainability Master Plan currently under contract.
Goal M -3: Create a countywide sea level rise monitoring and adaptation process.
MZ. Develop a monitoring program to evaluate and observe climate charge impacts and responses
on the natural and built environments within Monroe County.
An ongoing monitoring program to document climate change related
impacts on the built and natural area is needed to identify best
management practices for improving adaptation responses to protect both
the natural and built environments. Particular emphasis will be on
monitoring the amount and rate of sea level rise, but temperatures,
rainfall and drinking water availability are also important. Monroe
County should seek data being collected by other agencies and
supplement it, where needed, with in -house monitoring.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Mid -term
M -3.2: Develop plaits with service providers for the delivery of routine
and emergency services to areas impacted by each of the current SLR
projections.
Maintain a database of critical roads and infrastructure vulnerable to sea
level rise according to the various sea level rise projections. To maintain
maximum functionality within the communities of Monroe County as sea
levels increase, Monroe County needs to provide leadership to the
business community in developing strategic plans for the delivery of
routine and emergency services.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Mid -term
Mid to long term
Marathon City Marina
Work with Emergency Management to coordinate databases
Action M -3.3: Create a framework to evaluate vulnerabilities and prioritize drenr for adaptation
actions.
Effective adaptation options will be limited, as will the funding necessary to implement them. Some
vulnerability will severely impact the residential quality of life and sustainability of business. These
should be prioritized and adaptation options should be planned.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Short-term
Mid to long term
C. EDUCATION AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
This section contains two goals on education and business and
workforce development with three and four supporting
strategic action items, respectively. Education is a critical need
for addressing climate change mitigation and adaptation
because of the ongoing confusion surrounding the issue with
regard to its causes, potential impacts and means for
ameliorating these potential impacts. Business development
efforts are important to help provide the expertise and
resources for addressing the challenges of mitigation and
adaptation that require adoption of new technologies.
Goal E -1: Increase awareness and understanding of potential climate change impacts as well as
mitigation and adaptation needs.
E -1.1: Promote climate change education regarding the potential impacts of climate change and sea
level rise on the County's built and natural environments and potential mitigation and adaptation
strategies to minimize those impacts.
An active communication and education strategy is needed to help the general public understand the need
for mitigation and adaptation responses to climate change. The potential for harm to the built
environment and declines in the local environment require rational responses. A first step would be to
educate residents and commercial interests on existing rules, ordinances, etc., and promote Florida -
Friendly Landscaping ( http:.-www.floridayards.oriz) along with national and international programs with
appropriate non - governmental organizations. Information is needed as well for residents and business
owners to learn the potential impacts of sea level rise on the existing built environment and the county's
roadways, properties and critical infrastructure.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Short-term
OF IFAS E.rtensiou currently helping with efforts led by Sustaivability Office.
E -1.2: Develop education programs to highlight the differences between storm surge and SLR and the
appropriate hazard mitigation & adaptation techniques far each.
Storm surge and sea level rise are related subjects in that
both can and will cause flooding, but they result from
different natural phenomena and have relatively different
impacts. It is important for people to understand the
similarities and differences in developing adaptations to
both while recognizing that while sea level rise is a gradual
and permanent phenomenon whereas storm surges are
infrequent and temporary but extreme events.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Mid -term
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E -1.3: Encourage climate change education into e-Yisting curricultun at local schools within Monroe
County School District.
Climate change awareness must be integrated into every school's curriculum. The education of students
can make a profound impact upon a community. Educating the youth of Monroe County will help to
ensure that in the next 50 years the correct practices are put into place to further climate change impacts.
The four steps necessary to guarantee the education of Monroe county students include reviewing
curriculum, teacher training, curriculum integration, and providing resources. Pre and post evaluation on
Survey Monkey will be conducted to measure the climate change education and behavior modifications.
To ensure success, this program will be piloted at Sigsbee Charter School and modified based on
feedback.
1. Review Curriculum: Review existing science curriculum K -7 that addresses the Next
Generation Florida Sunshine State Standards.
2. Teacher Training: In order to reach out to students, teachers must be invested and educated
thoroughly in climate change concepts. Staff and members of the Climate Change Advisory
Committee will come speak with teaching staff about climate change and how these lessons can
be applied in their classrooms.
3. Curriculum Integration: Knowledgeable professionals will meet with teachers to finalize
how climate change curriculum can be written and integrated into existing curriculum at each
school. Discussion of pertinent materials and guest speakers needed at each school will be critical
at these meetings.
4. Providing Resources: Teachers will be provided with materials and guest speakers to aid in
the full integration of the climate change curriculum into the classrooms.
Priority: Medium
Planning Horizon: Mid -term
Goal E -2: Business & Workforce Development Expand local green workforce and business
opportunities through training and business development initiatives.
E -2.1: Develop greets workforce capability within the Corntty.
Local tradesmen and contractors need training in green technologies if
appropriate construction techniques are to be implemented. Green
industries grow the local economy. Therefore, green job training and
retraining must be priority issues for the County.
Monroe County should look for technical training opportunities to enhance
the local workforce. This enhancement can be accomplished directly
through collaboration with the FKCC and the MC School Board to develop
green job training. Funding opportunities exist to support curriculum
development to train students in energy management and installation of renewable energy systems.
Key West ball field lighting retrofit
Local green workforce enhancement can also be accomplished indirectly by requiring green job skill
development for the appropriate county employees in Engineering, Project Management and Public
Works, by requiring green credentials and outcomes into solicitation proposals.
Priority: Medium
Planning Horizon: Mid -term
E -22: Require climate change adaptation training for contractors to learn green building practices
and to protect the natural shoreline against sea level rise.
The Monroe County Building Department should consider training requirements for contractors to remain
informed of the best management practices for green building practices and protection of private property
against sea level rise effect while maximizing protection of the natural shoreline.
Priority: Lora° Planning Horizon: Short-term
Action E 23 Enhance Sustainability of Existing
Businesses
Existing businesses should be encouraged when
possible to retrofit existing infrastructure and practices
to reduce their carbon footprints through a green
business certification program. Furthermore, Monroe
County should encourage, through policy, sustainable
practices with particular sensitivity to and focus on
businesses of historical and cultural significance. w
Priority:
Planning Horizon: Mid -term i
Key West waterfront area
Action E -2.4: Enhance Sustainable Development of New Businesses.
Initiate a sustainable business development effort to encourage growth of new green businesses. This
could include evaluation of opportunities to provide incentives for green business development and to
create economic and similar other incentives to encourage environmental (green) businesses to relocate to
the county. Coordinate and partner with local chambers of commerce to establish "green" initiatives.
Priority:
Planning Horizon: Mid -term
INIonr0e COil ntr` Climate ;Aetiun
D. NATURAL SYSTEMS
One of the largest attractions of Monroe County is the natural
system encompassed within its boundaries. For the period 2007-
2008, approximately 83% of residents and 92% of visitors
participated in recreation -based activities, and these activities
contributed $2.109 billion to the local economy. Coincidentally,
commercial fishing represented 9% of private sector employment.
However, the ecosystems that support recreational and
commercial activities are also among the most vulnerable to a
changing climate. There is extensive documentation detailing the
effects of warning seas on the coral reef ecosystems, and sea
level rise on coastal habitats and the plants and animals that they
support.
Monroe County should encourage activities designed to 1) better understand the effects of climate change
on the Florida Keys ecosystems, 2) to develop adaptation strategies that ensure their sustainability, and 3)
to support restoration programs for those systems already impacted. To achieve these goals, partnerships
with other governmental and non - governmental organizations and the private sector are needed to
develop holistic strategies that ensure these ecosystems continue to be vibrant and healthy, and provide
the services upon which the residents of, and visitors to, Monroe County depend.
The Natural Resource Section contains three goals on vulnerability, adaptation and resilience with 2, 1
and 3 supporting strategic action items, respectively.
Goal N -1: Vulnerability -- Identify vulnerability of natural resources (i.e. natural areas, species,
groundwater) to coastal hazards and climate change impacts including storms, sea level rise, drought
and rainwater flooding.
N-1. 1: Coordinate with state, regional and national strategic planning efforts to evaluate the
vulnerabilities of the natural environment to climate change impacts.
Monroe County should coordinate with other state, regional and national
strategic planning efforts to prepare for climate variability and change.
For example, the SE Florida Climate Change Compact's regional
Climate Action Plan, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Commission/Fish and Wildlife Research Institute's species vulnerability
assessment, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. - 'Landscape Conservation
Cooperative scenario planning, the Florida Keys National Marine
Sanctuary management planning, the South Florida Water Management
District water supply planning, and the NOAA "Coastal and Marine
Spatial Planning" under auspices of the National Ocean Policy.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Mid -term A Key Deer on Big Pine Key
Interagency coordination is ongoing and continues to be an important component of most of the Comp
Plan elements, particularly agencies with natural resources responsibilities.
Action N -1.2: Evaluate and support protections and
restoration programs in potential climate change affected
natural habitats.
Some habitats and other resources of concern include the
Keys' freshwater lenses (i.e., groundwater), freshwater
wetlands and pine forests as well as coastal wetlands.
Protecting and restoring these wetlands should help reduce
saltwater intrusion driven by sea level rise, storm surges and
the highest tides of the year. Wetlands also help to retain
and filter storm water runoff, reducing potential pollution
from the built environment. Restoration may include filling
or plugging ditches, installing culverts to allow storm surge
to run off, and fire management to create or maintain high
frequency, low intensity fire regimes in fire- dependent
uplands and wetlands of the lower Keys - which will slow
the succession from pine and herbaceous species to
broadleaf species dominance.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Mid -term
ff7die the need for aggressive land acquisition is recognized, acquisition priorities include reduction of
evacuation times, endangered species habitat protection and reduction of takings claims. Climate
change, while a real consideration is of medium priority compared to these more immediate priorities
That being said — conservation land acquisition is a top priority for Monroe County and will aid in
meeting climate change/SLR objectives as well.
Goal N -2 Adaptation. Develop strategies that promote the adaptive capacity of natural systems to
changing environmental conditions resulting from climate change.
N -2.1 — Promote and encourage policies that provide adaptive capacity to species and habitats to
respond effectively to changing conditions, especially to those that are particularly vulnerable to
climate change.
The ability of coastal species and habitats to respond effectively to sea level rise is dependent upon their
ability to migrate inland with rising waters. This ability may be facilitated by adopting strategies that
provide migration corridors. For example, approaches that conserve beach berms and/or discourage
shoreline hardening should be considered when appropriate. The Land Development Regulations, Tier
System, Habitat Conservation Plan for Big Pine and No Name Key and other rules and regulations do
these things and should be retained and improved upon as conditions evolve.
Some species of fish, wildlife and/or plants are particularly sensitive to changing climate in the Florida
Keys. For example, loggerhead turtles depend on beaches for nesting and sea level rise predictions
suggest that Keys beaches are likely extremely vulnerable to increasing sea level rise. Policies that
encourage conservation and restoration of key habitats and landscape features should be encouraged to
provide opportunities for these species to successfully survive and adapt. The Land Development
Chris and Nate Bergh demonstrate that pine
rockland forests and associated freshwater
wetlands and lenses are at risk from sea level
Regulations, Tier System, Habitat Conservation Plan for Big Pine and No Name Key and other rules and
regulations do these things and should be retained and improved upon as conditions evolve.
Priority: Planning Horizon: Long -tern
This is a continuation of existing efforts.
Goal N -3: Resilience. Increase the resilience of the natural and urban landscapes to climate
change through implementation of mitigation and adaptation str
N -3.1: Identify, protect, restore and enhance sites where `green
infrastructure' (e.g. mangroves, natural beaches, freshwater
wetlands, coastal berms, coral reefs), alone or in combination
with built infrastructure can increase resilience of the natural
and built environments.
A healthy green infrastructure not only increases resilience to
natural systems but it also protects people and the built
environment from coastal hazards and climate change impacts
including storms, sea level rise, drought and rainwater flooding. In
addition, maintaining functional green infrastructure provides
corridors for migration of shore side habitat inland as sea level
rises.
Priority: Planning Horizon. Long -term
N -3.2: Ensure that Monroe County Land Authority continues to place a high priority on purchasing
natural areas for conservation purposes and support efforts of federal, state, nurnicipal and private
interests to purchase natural areas for conservation purposes.
This action item reinforces and helps to put in action the protection of existing green space for
maintaining a healthy green infrastructure.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Short -term
This is a continuation of existing efforts.
N-3.3: Support the recommendations of the Florida Reef Resilience Program's "Climate Change
action Plan for the Florida Coral Reef System 2010- 2015" through participation in recommended
management, education and research areas, as appropriate.
Protection of the marine environment surrounding Monroe County is critical to maintaining a productive
fishing and tourist economy. The Florida Reef Resilience Program's Climate Action Plan's vision is to
achieve: 1) increased resilience to global climate change impacts via active management of local reef
impacts; 2) enhanced communications and awareness about climate change impacts on reefs and reef
Eroded beach shoreline of Boca Chica.
users; and 3) targeted research about those impacts. More detailed information is available at:
httn://fn /`2ORee 42{IA ction° �20Plan- WrB.pdf
Priority:
E. BUILT ENVIRONMENT
Energy consumed in residential buildings accounts for 29.5%
of Monroe County's total GHG emissions. Improving the
efficiency of our residential building stock will contribute
significantly to achieving the county's greenhouse gas
reduction target, while saving residents money on utility bills
and reducing the need for new infrastructure. This chapter
focuses on opportunities to retrofit existing residential
buildings, increase the quality of new construction, and to
ensure that future activities in these sectors are compatible
with our community's climate protection goals.
Emissions from transportation are a common sight to nearly
everyone in the Keys. Besides emitting greenhouse gases,
transportation fossil fuels also produce a host of criteria air
pollutants when combusted, reducing local air quality and
affecting our health. Transportation accounts for 38% of
Monroe County's total GHG emissions. This chapter focuses
on programs and policies to reduce emissions from
transportation and includes design - oriented approaches as well
as expansion of alternate modes such as walking, biking, or
public transportation to and from the most common
destinations in Monroe County, Florida.
Planning Horizon: Short -term
Broadly speaking, the use of fossil fuels for energy (including electricity, heating, transportation, and
other uses) is the single largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. While
Florida is a strong leader among US states in terms of implementing low or no carbon energy sources,
fossil fuels still supply a considerable share of energy for electricity, heating, transportation, and other
energy - producing uses. Emissions from fossil fuel combustion for energy, including transportation,
represent 88.5% of the community's total GHG emissions. Energy Production is a cross - cutting focus
area in that nearly all activities that take place in the community require energy of some sort. While
Florida Keys Electric Coop and Keys Energy Services are working hard to increase the percentage of
electricity generated through renewable sources, opportunities also exist for citizens and Monroe County,
Florida local government to produce small -scale renewable energy or fuels, offsetting the need for fossil
fuels. The programs and projects within this focus area are designed to spur local government and
community investment in renewable energy sources including those that produce electricity, heat, and
mobile fuels.
A resilient vehicle transportation infrastntcture is a must in Monroe County to maintain our quality of
life while adapting to sea level rise. Early identification of areas that require improvements and
integrating them into the current planning process will help to sustain our neighborhoods and economy.
A section of Old U.S. I on Boca Chica
Early identification of needed improvements also minimizes needed expenditures and enables the County
to take advantage of state and federal funds.
The overall vision is to have a functional mass transportation system and ride sharing progrant
throughout Monroe County for island to island travel and low- carbon transportation alternatives for travel
within each of the island communities. As the shift: to alternative fuel vehicles occurs, most cars will
include electric engines, either wholly or as a plug -in hybrid. Commuter parking areas with electric
charging stations at each island community center will help facilitate a transition to electric vehicles for
both "drive down" tourists and residential commuters.
Ground level commuter parking areas should be raised several feet equal to or higher than the height of
the adjacent US 1 highway to protect against SLR, and where possible storm surge. As the shift to electric
vehicles occurs these small limited distance vehicles will be less likely to be used for storm evacuation.
As an alternative to removing multiple vehicles per household from a storm's path (burdening evacuation
times) we should be encouraging the use of one conventional fueled vehicle for the entire family while
leaving the commuter vehicle in these relatively safe commuter parking areas.
The more the County is able to encourage mass transit use, the less people will be dependent on cars,
which will result in a reduction in CO2 emissions. Economic and energy savings for travelers will occur
because dependency on oil for personal transportation will be reduced. The Built Environment section
contains four goals, landscape, adaptation, mitigation and transportation with supporting strategic action
items.
Goal B -1 : La_ ndscape Promote the conservation of native species and sustainable landscape
practices.
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B -1.1: Promote Florida - Friendly Landscaping principles that encourages native flora and discourages
Ilse spread of invasive exotics species (http:11ww wfloridayards.or .
Florida- Friendly Landscaping promotes resilient landscapes
that require minimal fertilizer and pesticide applications and
is more adaptable to natural rain cycles, thus also
minimizing the need for artificial irrigation. Native
landscaping is a good mitigation and adaptation practice for
landscapes within the built environment.
This action will also increase carbon sequestration and to
help reduce energy costs. Review current buffer
requirements to encourage a balance of trees, understory,
shrubs, and groundcover. Reduce pea -rock and turf grass on rights of way whenever possible and replace
with native ground cover, plants, and trees.
The development of strategies to respond to potential increases in undesirable exotic and invasive species
is critical. Emphasis on prevention of new invasions through education, early detection of and rapid
response to new invasions and control of well - established invasive species populations that have
particular impacts on climate change vulnerability (e.g. Australian pines are bad in any natural area but on
dunes they promote coastal erosion which can reduce resilience of the dune itself and therefore everything
landward of the dune, to waves, storm surges and rising sea levels. The Florida Keys Invasive Exotics
Task Force should review their existing policies and activities in context of climate change and sea level
rise ( http:. , ",. - 'www.floridainvasives.org/Keys .
Priority: I.ow Planning Horizon: Short -term
This is a continuationlerpansion of e-Yisting efforts.
B -1.2: Encourage creation of neiv community gardens and produce markets.
Community gardens and produce markets are great ways to encourage healthy eating.
Monroe County should adopt policies to encourage community gardens by reducing
barriers and cost, and search for opportunities to use public spaces for establishment of
community gardens and produce markets.
Priority: Lo Planning Horizon: Short -term
Goal B-2: Built Adaptation Incorporate adaptation to climate change impacts, especially sea
level rise and storm surge in building codes, the planning of developments and provision of
services, as appropriate.
B -2.1: Develop and imple►nent adaptive planning and zoning policies, regulations and programs to
ensure that appropriate land use, construction and redevelopment activities address file potential
impacts of sea level rise on Monroe Con sty's infrastructure.
Monroe County will ensure that netir, renovated and replacement residential and commercial buildings are
designed in a manner which takes into consideration the impacts from global climate change, including
rising sea level and storm surge, to assure resilience and sustainability.
Establish an ongoing process to review local and regional zoning and building code requirements
implemented by other counties, determine their applicability to Monroe County, and adopt as a local code
when appropriate regarding the need for resilience of existing and proposed structures in areas at risk to
inundation and climate change.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon. Mid -term
Goal B -3: Built Mitigation Identify measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through
changes in building codes and practices.
B -3.1: Consider Land Development Regulations to increase energy efficiency, promote renewable
energy systems, and other green construction practices for new and remodeled residential and
commercial structures.
Monroe County typically does not adopt building codes that are more stringent than those enacted by the
State of Florida because it is cumbersome processes that must be repeated each time the state building
codes are updated. An alternative means for incorporating new green building standards that are
applicable to Monroe County is through land development regulations. The State of Florida has indicated
that while it will adopt the 2012 International Building Codes, it will not be adopting the 2012
International Green Construction Code recently developed by the International Code Council. The
Florida State Green Building Model Ordinance provides guidance on incentives for green building and
adaptation for climate change
(www.southembuildin , s.or , T resources / pdfs/Model Green Buildings Ord. df ).
Homeowners, businesses and builders need guidance and assistance in creating homes and offices that
minimize the use of non - renewable energy. The creation of near net -zero buildings is a goal for county
residents that can only be facilitated by appropriate policies and assistance from local governments, their
departments, and the local utilities.
Incorporating energy efficient design, construction, maintenance and waste reduction standards through
the use of regulation, education and incentives is a goal. The county should encourage greener, more
efficient, and more durable construction practices locally by establishing an ongoing process to address
local zoning and building code requirements that recommend the following:
1. Encourage builders to construct all new and renovated buildings to meet green building standards to
be developed in the green building ordinance;
2. Encourage each municipal building department to have at least one "greed' accredited official on
staff within a two -year time frame;
3. Encourage licensed personnel in each building department to have continuing education units (CEUs)
of emerging energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies with the next two -year cycle;
4. Incorporate RFP specifications that will require accredited individuals on design teams and
incorporation of green building practices.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Mid -term
B -3.2: Reduce hupervinus surfaces to reduce storm
hater runoff.
Impervious surfaces have proven to reduce storm
water runoff in the built environment and need to be
expanded to reduce pollution to the near shore
environment. Ongoing consideration is needed for
incorporation of impervious asphalt and concrete in
appropriate situations.
Priority: Medium
Planning Horizon: Mid -term
High -tide flooc High -tide flooded road on Big Pine Key
ise of public transportation, ride sharing, and a shift
to fossil fuel efficient and electric commuter vehicles through the provision of the appropriate
infrastructure. This goal encourages adaptation — `to build resilience into our transportation
infrastructure,' and a mitigation element `to reduce the current level of vehicle miles travelled and
thus the amount of carbon emissions.
A resilient vehicle transportation infrastructure is a must in the Keys to maintain quality of life while
adapting to sea level rise. Early identification of areas that require improvements and integrating them
into the current planning process will help to sustain our neighborhoods and economy. This early
identification of needed improvements also minimizes needed expenditures and enables the County to
take advantage of state and federal funds.
The overall vision includes a functional mass transportation system and ride sharing program throughout
the Keys for island to island travel, and low- carbon transportation alternatives for travel within each of
the island communities. As the shift to alternative fuel vehicles occurs, most cars will include electric
engines, either wholly or as a plug -in hybrid. Commuter parking areas with electric charging stations at
each island community center will help facilitate a transition to electric vehicles for both "drive down"
tourists and residential commuters.
Ground level commuter parking areas should be raised several feet equal to or higher than the height of
the adjacent US 1 highway to protect against sea level rise, and where possible storm surge. As the shift to
electric vehicles occurs these small limited distance vehicles will less likely be used for storm evacuation.
As an alternative to removing multiple vehicles per household from a storm's path (burdening evacuation
times) we should encouraging the use of one conventional fueled vehicle for the entire family while
leaving the commuter vehicle in these relatively safe commuter parking areas.
The more the County is able to encourage mass transit use, the less people will be dependent on cars,
which will result in a reduction in CO emissions. Economic and energy savings for travelers will occur
because dependency on oil for personal transportation will be reduced.
B -4.1: Encourage a fiinctional county ivide public transportation system and coordinate
transportation- related adaptation policies across jurisdictional boundaries.
1. Pursue funding opportunities for public mass transit, at
the local, state and federal level.
2. Coordinate with the municipalities and the South Florida
Regional Transportation Authority to improve the mass
transit system functions on a regional level to allow Keys
residents effective mass transit within the entire county and
to the mainland.
3. Encourage vehicle ride sharing where mass
transportation is not practical.
4. Provide the infrastructure and support facilities to
encourage and enhance the use of mass transportation and
ride sharing.
a) Establishing commuter - parking facilities in each island community.
b) Provide electric charging stations (preferably solar powered) at each of these parking facilities.
c) Raise parking facilities above high water levels.
Priority: High
Planning Horizon: Long -tern
B -4.2: Enhance bicycle and pedestrian safety, and promote their use to reduce miles driven.
Psr�e -12
7 -Mile Bridge south of Marathon
1. Develop a countywide bicycle/pedestrian plan integrated with the FDEP Overseas Heritage Trail and
the commuter parking areas.
2. Provide more bicycle routes and bike racks throughout the County.
3. Provide bicycle and pedestrian ways for connecting residential areas to recreational areas, commuter
parking, schools, shopping areas and employment areas.
4. Promote a bike share program.
Priority: Medium
Planning Horizon: Short-term
B-4.3: Promote the infrastructure and encourage use of alternative fuels and alternative fitel vehicles.
Alternative fuels such as biodiesel, propane, and eventually
hydrogen can reduce dependence on fossil fuels, but such
alternatives need government support or encouragement. Grant
funding should be sought to fund evaluation pilot projects. One
method of encouraging the needed transition is for the local
governmental entities to acquire and use alternative fuels
whenever possible. Other possible approaches include:
1. Encouraging the establishment of alternative
fueling/charging stations.
2. Working with the MC School Board and FKCC to create
and expand training programs.
i -
A Monroe County hybrid car
3. Introducing alternative fueled vehicles when replacing county vehicles. Encourage municipalities to
do so as well.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Mid -term
B -4.4: Encourage creation of a Florida Keys Electric Highway.
The installation of fast - charging stations throughout the Florida Keys along U." "' ` •'
increase use of electric vehicles by both residents and tourists. The
creation of a Florida Keys Electric Highway would greatly complement
the current designations of the Florida Keys Scenic Highway and the
Overseas Heritage Trail. Promote electric vehicles or shuttle services for
island transportation and provide leadership by purchasing electric vehicles
for use in the county fleet. Encourage accessible "plug in" locations for
electric vehicles in new development projects or major renovations. Install
electric fast - charging stations at all the major county facilities
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Mid -term
B-4.5: Develop raised commuter parking at transportation hubs to provide support for increased mass
transit usage and to protect parked vehicles from sea level rise and storm surge.
The Livable CommuniKeys Plans envision Community
Centers throughout the Keys where commercial activity
will be centralized. The centers lend themselves to
bicycling and walkable communities, and provide a focal
point for commuter parking. These commuter parking
areas should be elevated (with fill) above the projected
sea level rise. Where possible, they should also be
elevated higher to protect against storm surge. Such
elevated areas will provide safe parking for short range
commuter vehicles that will not be used for evacuation,
thus encouraging the transition to alternative fuel
vehicles.
Elevated commuter parking areas are defined as areas
where the parking level is raised to heights equal to or above that of the adjacent U.S.1 roadway and are
sufficient in size to provide reasonable access for the nearby community. Multimodal infrastructure (e.g.,
raised commuter parking) and support facilities (e.g., electric charging stations) are needed to encourage
the use of electric vehicles for on- island transportation and the use of mass transportation for island to
island transportation. Sites throughout the County along the U.S.I corridor are needed to provide
commuter parking at ground levels equivalent to the adjacent highway to provide protection from
anticipated sea levels and the concomitant increases in extreme tides and storm surges.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Long -term
Action B -4.6: Establish video conferencing facilities to allow residents and employees to participate in
advisory and commission meetings without having to drive long distances
The three primary county meeting facilities (Murray Nelson, Marathon, and Harvey Government
Centers), will be equipped and staffed to provide Keys -wide video teleconferencing by the public and
county employees during BOCC and other meetings. This action would significantly reduce miles
traveled within the county and travel costs for both residents and employees. The time saved would also
increase government and business productivity.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Short-term
Duval Street high tide flooding
F. WATER RESOURCES & WASTEWATER
The water and wastewater infrastructure in the Florida Keys are important, but
also vulnerable to sea level rise. The well fields which supply water to Keys
residents are located on the mainland, and are susceptible to salt water
intrusion as sea level increase. Alternative means of providing drinking water
to the island chain will be needed. The pipes, pumps and ancillary equipment
will need to be hardened against the salt water. In addition, Monroe County
has invested years of funding and resources into developing and implementing
advanced wastewater systems, many of which may be vulnerable to rising seas_
Water conservation strategies are needed to minimize extraction of potable
water from the mainland well fields to help stave off salt water intrusion.
Alternative sources of water will be needed. Continued and new efforts will be
needed to minimize wastewater contamination of our near shore waters. The Water Resources &
Wastewater section includes three goals on drinking water, alternate water source and near shore water
quality protection with 5, 5, & 2 supporting strategic action items, respectively.
Goal W -Z: Drinkina Water. Support conservation strategies for protection of water
resources.
W -1.1: Advocate for sustain entation of the Comprehensive Everglades Restorations Plan
(CERP) projects that increase the flow of freshwater into lower east coast aquifers and Florida Bay.
CERP projects will increase the resiliency of the local drinking water supply by helping to curtail
saltwater intrusion into the Biscayne Aquifer, the primary source of drinking water for the Florida Keys,
and will improve the resiliency and quality of the Florida Bay ecosystem. Monroe County should
review, in coordination with appropriate agencies, the impacts of climate change and sea level rise
on the Everglades and support adaptive management efforts to mitigate impacts.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Short-term
W -1.2: Support clinnnate change and conservation strategies of FKAA and SFWMD to protect the
existing freslnvater supply for Monroe County.
Monroe County should support the inclusion of adaptation measures that address impacts from climate
change in future updates of the FKAA Water Plan ( http: !'www.fkaa.com/alt� su pply rlan.htm the South
Florida Water Management District's Lower East Coast Regional Water Supply Plan
( http::: www.sfwmd.gov; portal pagg/portal.'xweb%20-
%20release% 203% 20w ater° o20suao lvrwater%20supply %20planning and other regional water
management activities to ensure that Monroe County's source of potable water supply is conserved and
protected.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Short-term
W -1 .3: Provide support to implement water conservation measures.
r r
Monroe County should provide resources to assist local
governments, South Florida Water Management District and
FKAA in implementing regional water conservation strategies
as a water supply demand management tool.
The county should fully promote government and public
water -use audits to establish a baseline, and identify efficiency
and conservation opportunities using state -of -the -art leak
detection technology and other strategies.
Staff should coordinate with the Monroe County Health
Department to encourage and facilitate gray water use.
Policies should require that new and replacement toilets, showerheads, and other water fixtures purchased
by the County be low -flow, consistent with EPA's MaterSense (www.ena.aov1WaterSense) or Energy
Star ( www.energystar.aov) programs.
The county shall promote partnerships and consistent conservation policies and reduced per- capita -use
goals with all users within the County including homeowner's and condominium associations.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Short-term
W -1.4: Endorse partnerships with FKAA and all county wastewater utilities to implement energy
efficiency nteasures.
It takes a lot of energy to treat and distribute water. It is important for our wastewater and water systems
to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Short-term
W -1.5: Require installation of a rain detection device on all automatic or tinter - controlled irrigation
systems to cease irrigation daring periods of rainfall.
Irrigation of landscape should be curtailed during rainy periods. Rain- detection
systems should be installed in any automatic (timer controlled) irrigation
system.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Short -term
FKAA J. Robert Dean Water Treatment
Plant in Miami Dade County
Goal W -2: Water Quality Protection. Implement measures to protect near shore water
quality.
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W -1.1: Protect Wastewater Treatment Plants and collection systems from infiltration and inflow.
Monroe County should work in coordination with all utilities and municipalities to maintain infrastructure
protection and adaptation through infiltration and inflow program development to prevent loss of
groundwater and reduce the need for additional treatment requirements.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Long -term
W -2.2: Complete conversion of wastewater systems in the Heys to Advanced Wastewater Treatment
(A WT).
Advanced wastewater treatment is necessary to protect near shore water quality from septic tank and
cesspit pollution.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Short -term
Goal W -3: Alternative Water Supply. Encourage the development and expansion of
alternative water supply systems (AWS) for the Florida Keys
W -3.1: Evaluate the reclamation and reuse of treated wastewater relative to potential benefits in
addressing climate change impacts
Monroe County should work in coordination with all
utilities and municipalities to evaluate current plans for
utilization of treated wastewater for reclamation and
reuse. Reuse reduces total water withdrawals from the
aquifer well fields. Wastewater infrastructure should
utilize the most energy efficient technology available
and feasible. The County should also evaluate
technologies to better utilize wastewater byproducts to
produce renewable energy.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Short -
term
W -3.2: Encourage the conversion of abandoned septic tanks to non potable rainwater collection
cisterns in accordance with Florida Department of Health procedures.
A very substantial number of stormwater - sequestering containers exist throughout the Florida Keys
in the form of soon- to -be- abandoned septic tanks are a valuable resource for reducing overall water
consumption at minimal cost. Rainwater harvesting should be fully encouraged to diminish
stormwater effects and to increase the supply of secure, widely distributed fresh water.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Short -term
W -3.3 Support legislation and ordinances that encourage rain water harvesting.
RL
Recognition of the potential and encouragement of the practice of rainwater harvesting to supplement
non - potable and potable water supply should be encouraged by all levels of government. While
decreasing demand through water efficiency and conservation are the primary means to protect the
aquifer and reduce the associated energy consumption, harvesting rainwater can and should be fully
exploited to increase the supply of water.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Short -term
OF Extension rain barrel education
W -3.4: Work with FKAA to plan for the eventual owpansion of the reverse osmosis plant in Florida
City to increase the capacity to treat waterfront the Floridan Aquifer.
As salt water intrusion into the Biscayne Aquifer continues with sea level rise, the need for reverse -
osmosis treated water from the Floridan Aquifer will increase and expansion of the existing facility may
be the most cost - effective means of maintaining the water supply for Monroe County in the mid -range
time frame.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Long -tern
W -3.5: Work with FKAA to evaluate the long -range feasibility of developing new or
upgrading /erpauding existing desalination plants in the Keys.
In the long -term time horizon, advances in sea level rise may require that more of Monroe County's water
supply be provided by desalination. Technological improvements may make desalination more cost
effective.
Priority: Medium
Planning Horizon: Long -tern
G. RENEWABLE ENERGY
The Renewable Energy section includes a single goal with 5 supporting strategic action items.
Monroe Colinty Climate Action Plan
Energy consumed in contntercial buildings and industrial processes
County's total greenhouse gas emissions. Improving the
efficiency of our commercial building stock and reducing the
energy intensity of the local industrial sector will contribute
significantly to achieving Monroe County, Florida's greenhouse
gas reduction target. The use of fossil fuels for energy (including
electricity, transportation, and other uses) is the single largest
contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
Emissions from fossil fuel combustion for energy, including
transportation, represent 88.5% of the community's total GHG
emissions.
Opportunities exist for citizens and Monroe County government A wind farm in Huron County, Michigan
to produce small -scale renewable energy, offsetting the need for fossil fuels. This focus area is limited to
energy production exclusively goals and strategies that focus on end use energy efficiency are included
in other focus areas. The programs and projects within this focus area are designed to spur local
government and community investment in renewable energy sources including those that produce
electricity, and mobile fuels.
Goal R -1: Support the expansion of renewable energy sources and remove the
barriers to projects that support sustainability.
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Action R -1.1: Support legislation to establish a ntininuent 20% renewable portfolio standard.
Monroe County should support state legislation which is consistent with the 2008 Florida Energy and
Climate Change Action Plan to establish a 20% renewable portfolio standard for 2020. Additionally the
County should support a "carve out" of a certain percentage of the Renewable Portfolio Standard for
distributive and solar energy as "Renewable Distributive."
Priority: High Planting Horizon: Short -term
Action R -1.2: Implement a Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) or similar program for Monroe
County residents and businesses.
In 2010, the State of Florida established the framework for dependent special districts, municipalities and
county governments to implement low- interest PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) financing
programs to advance implementation of renewable energy, energy efficiencies, and hurricane mitigation
measures on homes and businesses through HB 7179, amending Chapter 163, F.S. A PACE program in
Monroe County would significantly create local jobs, increase property values and reduce greenhouse gas
emissions within the county.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Short -term
Action R -1.3: Incentivize solar water heating systents and the
installation of electrical generating renewable energy systents on
all new construction.
This effort could involve collaborations with utilities or other
k
agencies. -
A solar water heating panel installed
account for 21% of Monroe
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Short -term
Action R -1.4: Encourage the electrical utilities, Florida Keys Electric Cooperative and Keys Energy
Services, to adopt practices to increase use of renewable energy.
The current fuel source percentages for Keys Energy Sen ices electrical output consists of about 50- 65 ° •'0
natural gas, I0 -25% coal, and 114Y nuclear with the remainder coming from pooled resources (taken
from Florida Municipal Power Agency, 3 Phase Times newsletter, March 2010). The current fuel source
percentages for the Florida Keys Electric Cooperative electrical output consists of about 72 ° natural gas,
21%' nuclear, 6% coal, 1% oil, 0.1% solar (T.J. Patterson, personal communication).
The utilities should be encouraged to implement incentive programs to increase the use of renewable
energy within the county and minimize the use of fossil fuels, especially coal, as a fuel source. Of all the
available fossil fuels used for electrical generations, coal emits the most greenhouse gases. The County
should recognize and support local utilities which build their own renewable energy facilities such as
Florida Keys Electric Cooperative's Simply Solar program
( http:e', ,- 'www.fkee.com/Green/SimpleSolar.cfm) .
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Mid -term
Action R -1.5: Encourage local alternative energy studies to evaluate their feasibility in achieving the
County's greenhouse gas emissions goals.
Solar energy is well documented as a viable source of
renewable energy but national wind studies indicate the
wind potential for Monroe County is limited and wave or
hydro turbine technologies are still at the research and
development stages. A more detailed evaluation of wind
potential in Monroe County is needed because many
residents believe our proximity to the prevailing ocean
breezes may make both onshore and offshore wind
energy feasible. Work cooperatively with municipalities
and other agencies to develop consistent permitting
requirements for renewable energy projects.
Priority: Medium
Planning Horizon: Mid -tern
H. SOLID WASTE & RECYCLING
Solid waste management and especially a community's level of recycling have become the measure of
local government's commitment to sustainability. Recycling in particular seems to be the most obvious
indicator reflecting a sustainable lifestyle. The amount of waste generated by a community is a measure
of inefficient use of resources. Many communities are striving to reduce solid waste not only to reduce
costs associated with collection, hauling and landfilling but also to reduce our overall dependence on
extraction of finite raw materials.
Pigeon Key solar panels
The Solid Waste & Recycling section focusing on various aspects of the community's use and disposal of
goods with the overall goal of achieving zero waste by 2025. This section includes three goals with three,
five and two action items, respectively.
Strategies to reduce solid waste disposal are an essential
piece of reducing the emissions that cause global warming.
Recycling, composting, and reducing overall consumption
serve to decrease upstream, energy intensive production
processes. Monroe County should adopt a goal to achieve
Zero Waste by 2025. Zero Waste means that all discarded
material is recycled, composted, or reused as waste -to-
energy. The County has already increased recycling from
6% to 21 of total solid waste through 2010. With waste
to energy credits the County has already reached a
cumulative 70 -75% level of recycling.
While substantial progress has been made, further
reductions in solid waste generation clearly need more effort and may need to include amendments to the
County Comprehensive Plan and the renegotiation of the solid waste collection and haul -out contracts.
The Solid Waste Recycling Action Plan should consider adoption of existing programs and criteria,
including concepts such as EPA's Waste Hierarchy and their WasteWise Partnership Program: EPA's
WasteWise partnership program - http:// ww epa. /et) awaste/ tiartnershigs /wasiew EPA
Waste Hierarchy -- http : / /www.ena.gov /wastes/nonhaz /municipal /wtetnonhaz_htm. The Action items
listed below under this goal are suggested for inclusion in a Solid Waste/Recycling Action Plan.
S -9.7: Revise County solid waste disposal structure to enhance waste diversion.
Revise the County solid waste disposal rate structure in order to maintain and enhance incentives,
outreach programs, and other activities designed to increase recycling and composting. Renegotiate
franchise arrangements and haul out contracts, where necessary, to maximize the efforts to reduce solid
waste shipments to the mainland.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Short-term
S -1.2 Adapt progressive, phased in, zero waste programs designed to he end user friendly for residents
and businesses.
Goal S -1: Create a Solid Waste/Recycling Action Plan to achieve zero waste by 2025.
Provide support for partnerships with municipal solid waste operation
to maximize efficiency. Utilize existing data from successful
programs in Florida to guide BOCC. staff development of a Solid
Waste and Recycling Action Plan. Consideration of a variety of
source reduction programs need to be assessed not only for both
financial and environmental costs and benefits.
Priority: High Planning Horizon:
Short-term
Goal S -2: Implement specific recycling plans for the residential, business, institutional
and construction sectors.
5 -1.3: Develop alyd lack the Solid Waste Actiolr Plmr tlirorrglr key perforrrrarrce indicators - - -- - --
Track solid waste GHG emissions including waste to energy and waste transport emissions.
Evaluate performance and progress of measures in the County Solid Waste/Recycling Action Plan.
Evaluate reduction achievements in the Comprehensive
plan.
Priority: High Planning Horizon:
Short -tern
S -I.4: Implement ordinances that encourage economic
oppartrurities for recycling /reuse business ventures and
reevaluate eristing ordinances to remove restrictions
that may discourage recycling
Examples of implementing activities include: 1) Support
regional bottle bills and inexpensive disposal options; 2)
Incorporate business opportunity measures in the County Solid Waste/Recycling Plan; and 3)
reduction goals into the Comprehensive plan.
Incorporate
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Mid -term
S -1.5: Monroe County should create air action plan to handle storm related solid waste.
The action plan should include means for composting as much debris as possible as well as its use in the
waste -to- energy plant.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Mid -term
We are 5 years now from base line of 2005 and are at a 219'o recycling rate countywide. (For annual
recycling rates in Monroe County and throughout the state visit the FDEP Solid Waste Management in
Florida website: http_r rwww.dep.st ate. fl. us /waste;c;ileeories'rec�clinl;' W 1errortdata/]0_data.htm .. To
further improve recycling rates, Monroe County should consider the following Action Items, including
those which ensure consistency with Monroe County's Comprehensive Plan Solid Waste element
( www.monroecounty -fl . gov/Document V iew.ast)x ?DID =32)
More on the latest statewide recycling information can be found in the following 2010 75% Recycling
Goal Report to the Legislature:
http:/ +www.dep.state.fl.us`waste/quick tonics.publications/shw re cyclinp,•'75tiercent/75_recycling epart
pf
S -2.1: Develop goals, objectives and policies to expand local capacity to process recycled
materials and promote development of reuse, recovery, and light
manufacturing activities.
Expanding local capacity to process and use recycled materials has
the potential to reduce the GHG emissions associated with
transporting materials elsewhere as well as create local jobs in the
waste management sector. The County should adopt goals which expand the types of materials that are
collected for local reuse and recycling, in order to increase waste diversion.
Incentive programs need to be designed to decrease the export of waste out of the County, increasing
climate change mitigation efforts. Expanding local capacity to process recycled materials has the potential
to reduce the GHG emissions associated with transporting materials elsewhere as well as create local jobs
in the waste management sector. The County's goal should be to expand the types of materials that are
collected for local reuse, in order to increase waste diversion.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Mid -term
5 -2.2 Consider a Pay As- You- Throry residential solid waste program.
A pay -as- you -throw program will encourage residents to recycle and to conduct at -home yard waste and
composting to avoid user fees for excessive solid waste or organics. An accompanying educational effort
can greatly assist residents adapt to the program. The County can use the composted material in
conjunction with construction debris for fill in sea level rise adaptation efforts.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Mid -term
5 -2.3 Evaluate the use of existing transfer stations far a community organics compost program.
Food and yard waste are around 4045°0 of our County's waste
stream. Monroe County should determine best composting and/or
fuel production methods for managing organic waste and evaluate
programs for adoption in Monroe County.
Conduct a feasibility study that results in recommendations
regarding the design of a rebuilt Transfer Station and material
recovery facility as well as recommendations regarding what
types of waste processing equipment and material recovery
systems to incorporate.
Explore Waste Prevention, Recycling and Composting Option
from 30 US Cities: htt2: /1www.ena.ggv /M conserve °'downloa�is•'recy- com/toc.pdf
Compost Use in Florida (IFAS Contributor)
http:."-'www.dgp.state.fl.us/wastg/quick tonics. public,. tions" documents 'enmpost.pdf
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Short-term
5 -2.4. Develop a program for mandatory recycling far commercial (i.e. non - residential) businesses,
government, agencies, and organizations
In 2009 only 14% of commercial units /properties in
Monroe County participated in scheduled recycling.
htt zf`ranpprod.den,stateAusiwww rcra/reports/WR/Re
cycling /2009AnnualReport/AppendixG/M onroe.pdf
In 2010 only 19% of commercial units /properties
participate in scheduled recycling;
http :f,`anoarod.deo.state.fl.us'www rcra/reports /WR/Re
gycling'2U l OAnnual ort/ArrrrendixBf I3B.adf
Recycling in Marathon
Goal S-3: Expand efforts to eliminate waste at its source.
Information on waste management for public buildings can be found at:
http: / /www ..dcp_ stale fl.u waste / categories /hazardous/paees /st
The following measures should be considered
1. Provide a range of container sizes and types for all commercial recycling accounts, priced
accordingly to minimize the amount of solid waste generated. Pricing must provide comparisons for
equivalent size /type/ collection frequency of recycling containers versus trash collection.
2. Commercial recycling and trash collection rates to be incorporated into all franchise agreements.
Provide education about tax credits to businesses for recycling of all end -of -life products like
furniture, appliances, fixtures, electronics to appropriate end of product life handlers and recyclers.
4. Expand low cost hazardous and electronic waste program for commercial users with convenient
drop off locations and hours.
5. Provide comprehensive commercial recycling education opportunities.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Short-tern
S -2.5: Develop goals, objectives and policies to increase recycling of recoverable waste front all
construction sites throughout Monroe County.
The DEP has best management practices, reports and legislation related to C & D recycling;
http; :' , 'www .dep .state.fl.us. waste / categories 'recvclin
1. Encourage pre- processing of C &D in franchise/license agreements, building permits or ordinances with
possible incentives (fee rebates).
2. Incentivize C &D recycling (on -site or off - site), and the use of recycled building materials.
3. Develop a partnership with in- county recycling companies to keep most construction debris in county
for use in adaptation efforts to combat sea level rise.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Long -term
3.1: Lobby the State of Florida to allow focal communities to regulate retail bags, especially single -ruse
plastic bags, and implement such a program as soon as possible.
Each year millions of discarded plastic shopping bags end up as litter in the environment when
improperly disposed. The same properties that have made plastic bags so commercially successful and
ubiquitous- namely their low weight and resistance to degradation have also contributed to their
proliferation in the environment.
VI. NEXT STEPS
In May of 2012, the City of Los Angeles became the largest city in the United States to implement a ban
on single -use plastic bags. Many other municipalities throughout the US and the World have
implemented similar bans. For more information on actions by other US and World entities, see:
http:''www.dep.state.fl.usr waste /retail gggs /list_USA.htm .
In Florida, the Energy, Climate Change, and Economic Security Act of 2008 (House Bill 7135) signed
into law by former Governor Crist created Section 403.7033, Florida Statutes. This section requires the
Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to perform an analysis and submit a report to the
Legislature by February 1, 2010 regarding the necessity and efficacy of both statewide and local
regulation of bags used by consumers to carry products from retail establishments. Until such time that
the Legislature adopts the recommendations of FDEP, no local or state government may enact any
regulation or tax on the use of such retail bags
The FDEP produced a report on the use of retail bags in 2010 and is available on their Retail Bags web
page: httn :'`www. del ), state. fl. usewaste /retailbaps -/ efa ult.htm . However, the legislature has not adopted
the recommendations of FDEP so the restrictions on local governments to regulate shopping bags
remains.
Priority: High Planning Horizon: Mid -term
3.2: Monroe County government should adopt Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) policies
for their internal operations to set a positive example for other government entities and local
businesses.
Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) policies help to reduce costs and mitigates greenhouse gas
emissions. Information on development of EPP policies can be found on the US EPA website:
http:.°''www.epa,gov.'e-' . Other similar activities the County could encourage through EPP policies
include options and opportunities for extending producer responsibility for product waste at the local
level.
Priority: Medium Planning Horizon: Long -term
While some of the actions recommended herein are
well underway, over the next year Monroe County tyrcauntypwanners
staff will engage community members, businesses, yterutlllties
institutions, and other stakeholders through a ransportabon agendes t c
�[7 ebpers/real estate Lora! btrsi
Climate Action Planning Task Force to prepare for Local
any prerequisite or additional actions needed to -> ssionals Farmers /disc
begin Plan implementation. response Elededlead
pa�rndes
trol agency CULZIJIaE -
These prerequisite actions include: hatlae Amertur
RAL
RESOURCES 1) 1) Creating citizen advisory groups for programs _ MmmlgrarM
L? -a require considerable community engagement. F r�
21 Gathering bids for contracted services and
equipment.
3) Making necessary changes to local policies or
existing programs, including staffing,
Figure 1. Some important groups and sectors to
involve in vulnerability assessments and
adaptation strategy development.
County staff should develop climate change preparation strategies that are integrated across natural and
human systems. Action plan efforts should involve decision makers at all levels in this community - driven
process. This work will not replace existing work that has been done on climate change preparations.
Rather, it will augment that work and thinking by bringing experts and decision makers from the range of
impacted resources together to discuss and plan for responses in a coordinated and integrated manner.
By making the process compatible with other efforts to characterize and plan for climate change, it will
build momentum and provide clarity on scientific projections, local impacts, local• and regional
vulnerabilities, and innovative and effective adaptation strategies. These strategies will be developed
specific to the focal region, but they will also be widely applicable to other coastal communities.
Staff should work across the different sectors of a community by use of a convening organization such as
the Monroe County Office of Sustainability, which becomes the local driver of the project. The process is
guided and moved to implementation by a committee of interdisciplinary local leaders and experts
(elected leaders, county /city water'land use planners, farmers, real estate agents and/or developers, natural
resource managers, business leaders, climate scientists, and others). The process is adapted to each
community based on local vulnerabilities, economic drivers, climate change impacts, values, and
traditions. The primary role is to convene local experts to identify the likely impacts and develop
ecologically -sound solutions that develop resilience in a collaborative and interdisciplinary manner.
The recommended process includes the following steps or services (in approximate time sequence order,
although many steps are overlapping in time):
1. Identification of appropriate convening partner with capacity
2. Relationship building among local experts and decision makers
3. Development of steering committee made up of interdisciplinary experts and leaders
4. Science synthesis specific to the area of interest, in language appropriate for mixed audiences
of scientists and non - scientists
5. Communication of science synthesis to local experts and decision makers
6. Gathering of natural resource experts and managers to identify climate change vulnerabilities
and develop strategies for increasing resilience
7. Reporting of natural resource output by lead participants
8. Gathering of socioeconomic experts and managers to identify climate change vulnerabilities
and develop strategies for increasing resilience
9. Communication of findings in multiple formats and venues
10. Meeting of elected leaders where workshop participants present information on vulnerabilities
and adaptation strategies
11. Implementation steps outlined by steering committee and others
12. Final release of adaptation strategies in multiple formats and venues
Table 2. Example of matrix used for vulnerability assessment across sectors (resources and populations
are examples only workshop participants will fill in matrix during breakout sessions). Additional
information on where/how /when specific local resources are impacted is collected so that targeted
adaptation strategies can be developed and mapped, increasing the likelihood of implementation.
Resource or
population
Local dam(s)
Barrier island
wildlife
reserves
Agriculture
Likely impact
Increased storm severity
and runoff could
compromise safety and
storage
Sea level rise, storm
surge, and increased
hurricane risk could lead
to loss of areas for
breeding and wintering
birds (terns, plovers, etc_.)
Loss of water availability
due to changes in
precipitation and higher
i People with
Increased ozone
asthma and
formation from higher
heart disease
temperatures will cause
specific
more heart attacks,
populations
asthma, and demand for
health care services
Table 2
Exposure
High exposure
to changes in
precipitation
and runoff
High due to
direct impacts
from climate
change and
loss of
Sensitivity
sensitivity
only extreme
storms will
cause overflow
_ or failure
Some species
more sensitive
than others
Medium due to Some crops
irrigation more sensitive
than others
_ (cotton _
V'
Adaptive Capacity
Low because dam
received poor marks on
its safety inspections
and is upstream of
residential development
Low because of
extensive loss of
habitat and disturbance
Farmers with access to
new technology and
resources have greater
- 1- - - - - -- - - -
- - - --
Higher in areas Some People without
with poor air populations insurance or those far
quality more sensitive from health care
than others services have lower
(elderly, young) adaptive capacity
Outcomes and measurements of success integral to Monroe County:
• An updated county climate action plan based on expert and public input
• Prioritization of climate related projects
• Increased resources made available for adaptation strategies and implementation
• Timely dissemination of outcomes (through reports, presentations, video, etc.)
• Increased decision -maker receptivity to the county's climate action plan
One expected outcome with multiple benefits is increased consensus for research supporting ecosystem
management, marine sanctuary protection and healthy fisheries. Those in turn create benefits for tourism,
commercial fishing, real estate, and other significant aspects of the local economy. The synergy of shared,
forward - looking ideas and solutions will build upon existing plans and provide a blueprint for increased
resiliency.
VII. APPENDICES
APPENDIX A. - LIST OF MONROE COUNTY ACTIONS & RESOLUTIONS
Independent of the Southeast Florida Regional Climate Change Compact, Monroe County also has
adopted resolutions and policies to advance climate change resiliency. The following list of actions
demonstrates the commitment of the Monroe County Board of County Commission in addressing climate
change challenges.
1. U.S. Mayors Agreement on Climate Change - 2007 (Resolution 235 -2007)
Resolution of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida endorsing the U.S.
Mayors Climate Protection Agreement as amended to reduce global warning pollution; Authorizing
full membership in the ICLEI local governments for sustainability and participation in the Cities for
Climate Protection Campaign.
2. Establish the Green Building Code Task Force - 2008 (Resolution 177 -2008)
A resolution by the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners establishing a Green Building
Code Task Force to recommend green standards for new building codes.
3. Establish a sunset date for the Green Building Code Task Force - 2008 (Resolution 345 -2008)
A resolution by the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners amending resolution number
177 -2008 to change the terms and sunset date of the Green Building Code Task Force to October 1,
2010,
4. Establish the Green Initiative Task Force - 2009 (Resolution 121 -2009)
A resolution of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County renaming the Green Building
Code Task Force to the Green Initiative Task Force; Changing that the recommendations be made to
the Board of County Commissioners rather than the Building Department and that the Task Force
provide recommendations not on local technical amendments but on green standards for
implementation in Monroe County to improve local quality of life and create a more efficient
government.
5. Establishment of the Monroe County Employee Green Team — December, 2009
The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners approved the establishment of an Employee
Green Team to develop a government operations climate action plan.
6. Southeast Florida Regional Climate Compact - 2010 (Resolution 022 -2010)
Resolution of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County Florida pledging their
commitment to appropriate staff resources and expertise within budget constraints to participate in the
regional climate team with Miami -Dade, Palm Beach and Broward counties toward the development
of a Southeast Florida Regional Climate Change Action Plan.
Monroe County Cliniate Action Plan Page 59
7. Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant — 2010
Development and Implementation of a $3.2M grant in partnership with the Cities of Key West,
Marathon and Islamorada. Accomplishments included installation of solar water heaters on low-
income families, county -wide educational programs, installation of solar powered lighting,
greenhouse gas inventory, hybrid vehicles, building retrofits and an energy conservation strategy for
Monroe County government operations.
8. Greenhouse Gas Target for County Operations - 2010 (Resolution 067 -2010)
Resolution of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County Florida adopting a goal for
reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to 20% by 2020 as measured from a 2005 baseline inventory.
9. Florida Green Building Coalition Commercial Building Standard - 2010 (Resolution 147- 2010)
Resolution of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida adopting the Florida
Green Building Coalition's green commercial building standard for county buildings in addition to
the Florida Building Code as the standard to be used for construction of all public buildings from the
date of this resolution.
10. Support for Multi- jurisdictional Financing Energy Assessment grant — July 2010
Approval of letter of support to City of Lantana for application to the Environmental Protection
Agency for the Climate Showcase Communities Grant to establish a multi jurisdictional Financing
Energy Assessment Program.
11. Climate Change Advisory Committee — January 2011
The Climate Change Advisory Committee was created to include a cross - section of community
interests to develop a Community Climate Action Plan.
12, Adoption of the SE Florida Climate Compact's Sea Level Rise Projections — 2011
The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners adopted the Compact's sea level rise
projections as guidance for the Climate Change Advisory Committee in their determinations of
potential sea level rise impacts.
13. Monroe County Comprehensive Plan — 2013
Monroe County staff is currently developing a Climate and Energy Element for inclusion in the
Monroe County Comprehensive Plan.
11auroe County Climate Action Platt pa-c60