A primary focus of the meeting was on the city’s climate action plan, which is in the process of being developed with the assistance of a yet-to-be-determined organization. The committee expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming kickoff of this initiative, with the goal of completing the plan by midsummer. This plan is expected to establish a concrete greenhouse gas reduction target.

In tandem with the climate action plan, the committee is working on updating the city’s Sustainability Action Plan, which includes a detailed list of 77 action items for fiscal year 2024. Among these, a notable item is the development of family-friendly workplace policies, which the committee views as a means to promote staff retention and integrate sustainable practices within the city’s operations. The Sustainability Committee is collaborating with the Human Resources department to craft these policies, which may feature paid family leave, flexible scheduling, teleworking options, job sharing, and ensuring a living wage for city employees.

The committee is also focusing on the Invasive Species Ordinance, a componet of the Land Development Regulations (LDRs), which is being refined in collaboration with the Planning and Zoning department. This ordinance is designed to protect local ecosystems from non-native species that can disrupt the balance of native flora and fauna.

With Earth Day approaching, the committee is organizing an event at the Heritage Center on April 19th to introduce the sustainability plan to the public. Plans are underway to ensure the event does not violate Sunshine Law requirements, which mandate open government meetings. The marketing strategy for the Earth Day event includes the use of social media platforms and email blasts, with the aim of drawing in attendees from various sectors, including city employees and members of the Pinellas sustainability and resiliency network.

The committee is also preparing for a presentation to the Board of Commissioners on April 2nd, which will report on the committee’s accomplishments and outline future recommendations. The draft for this presentation is scheduled for review on March 21st.

Additionally, the committee discussed revising the Seawall Ordinance to require new or renovated seawalls to adhere to minimum height requirements based on current flood projections. The incorporation of living seawalls as part of city improvements was considered as well, aligning with the goal of reducing vulnerability to sea level rise.

Another discussion centered on the net zero canopy loss policy, which is underway following a project kickoff in January. The committee is conducting research and learning from other municipalities to understand potential barriers to the policy’s implementation, which is contingent on the completion of a tree inventory – currently about 30-40% finished.

Lastly, public engagement strategies for the Earth Day event were deliberated, with the committee seeking a balance between a casual atmosphere and providing a structured experience where attendees can learn about the sustainability plan and how to get involved. Ideas included serving refreshments and giving away water conservation kits to encourage participation.