Sustainability Advisory Board Agenda and Packet 2016 09 21

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CC4CA Colorado Communities for Climate Action Colorado Communities for Climate Action June 2016 Colorado communities with climate -protection goals are grappling with the reality that local actions alone will not achieve them. Local governments also need a better framework of state and federal climate policies to enable them to be more effective in their local climate actions. A new coalition, Colorado Communities for Climate Action, offers an opportunity for local governments to join forces on climate policy and work for state and federal actions supporting and complementing local climate -protection actions. CC4CA is this state's first consortium to represent municipalities and counties in advocating state and federal actions providing the authorities, tools, and policy frameworks Colorado communities need to reduce heat -trapping emissions enough to meet local goals and help stabilize our climate. Benefits of the Coalition Collaboration Working together through Colorado Communities for Climate Action, local governments can influence state and federal actions more than individual jurisdictions can alone. CC4CA will work for strong collaboration between state and local governments, maximizing the return on local efforts. Cost -Effectiveness One obstacle for local governments wanting to influence state and federal policies is the expense of advocacy. Pooling resources is the most cost- effective way to get the professional services local governments need to be effective on climate matters at the state and federal levels. Local Support The coalition will offer information on grants and other assistance, provide networking opportunities, and produce messaging materials in support of coalition priorities. Initial Policy Priorities In 2016, Colorado Communities for Climate Action will establish an influential presence in shaping climate policy and set the stage for coalition initiatives in 2017 and beyond. By unanimous consent, coalition members will identify several initial priorities, which could include: • Supporting in the General Assembly pro -climate bills and opposing bills undercutting state or local climate authority. The coalition has retained Frontline Public Affairs as its lobbyist before the state government. • Advocating an effective state plan to comply with the federal Clean Power Plan, and specific state actions to implement the new Colorado Climate Action Plan. • Communicating with the Governor's administration to urge more aggressive state climate actions. • Engaging in Public Utilities Commission and other state agency proceedings to represent local interests in climate protection, energy efficiency, and clean energy.