Dear Mayor Taylor and City Council Members, I’m writing in strong support of the proposed City Council Priorities and Workplan for 2020-21 (Item G1 on the August 18th 2020 Agenda https://menlopark.org/DocumentCenter/View/25943/G1-20200811-CC-City-Council-priorities >). I appreciate the focus on equity and sustainability in the proposed Work Plan, and bold leadership to prioritize 16 key projects over the next year, while continuing to respond to the pandemic. In particular, thank you for prioritizing implementation of the recently adopted Climate Action Plan. As cities grapple with massive budget cuts and increased needs among residents due to COVID, Menlo Park is wise to continue leading on climate with well-designed sustainability programs that can be a major asset. For instance, for every dollar Invested in Climate-Resilient infrastructure, six dollars are saved. You’re likely aware that we are now headed towards twice the level of warming as the Paris Climate Accord sought to contain, which will disproportionately impact bayside communities. Our swift action over the next decade will make a world of difference; Menlo Park can lead local efforts to cut carbon and fossil fuel use. We are seeing cities within Silicon Valley, the broader Bay Area, and beyond follow Menlo Park’s lead which is providing out our vision that as a center of innovation we can have an impact far beyond our size. Let’s celebrate the progress so far and make sure that we continue to move forward on climate policy, even in this remarkably tough time. I hope you and your families are staying healthy and safe. All the best, _________________________________ Mitchel J. Slomiak Vice Chair, Advisory Board Menlo Spark mslomiak_at_(domainremoved) 650-322-6349 [cid:7D0689A3-D988-4B2D-9B2D-550BAC41C835] Achieving Climate Neutrality as a Community Received on Tue Aug 18 2020 - 14:44:10 PDT
