Southern California Gas Company has awarded Costa Mesa $50,000 to conduct a crucial climate vulnerability assessment for low-income and disadvantaged communities that may be disproportionately impacted by climate change.
The $50,000 grant is the only one awarded in Orange County and is part of SoCalGas’s Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Planning Grant created to assist cities.
The Energy and Sustainability Division, under the City Manager’s Office, is in the process of developing Costa Mesa’s first Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – a comprehensive strategy and roadmap to help address the impacts of climate change.
“We are embarking on an exciting journey to develop our first climate action and adaptation plan that prioritizes equity and community resilience, said City Manager Lori Ann Farrell Harrison. “I want to express my gratitude to SoCalGas for awarding the City of Costa Mesa the climate adaptation and resilience grant. It will enable our city to expand our work in developing an inclusive climate action plan that specifically addresses the needs of vulnerable community.”
The climate plan will put equity at the center of the planning process, and will identify greenhouse gases reduction and adaptation measures that enhance public health, community resilience and promotes the creation of local green jobs.
The grant will supplement the council approved climate plan budget, and will allow the City to do targeted outreach and engagement to vulnerable and underrepresented communities in Costa Mesa.
The Division of Energy and Sustainability is responsible for developing and implementing citywide programs and initiatives that reduce Costa Mesa’s carbon footprint, increase resource efficiency, minimize waste generation, and enhance the natural and built environment.
The sustainability team works with various City departments, community-based organizations, regional and state agencies, and the business community to build a stronger, more sustainable and equitable city together.
Click here for more information https://www.costamesaca.gov/government/departments-and-divisions/public-works/sustainability.