Speak up. Make a difference.

Lora Rathbone, Sustainable Tri-Cities -

Governor Jay Inslee signs HB 1181 at Horn Rapids Solar Farm, Richland 5/3/23. Photo courtesy of Gov. Inslee's office.

With so much current bad news, it is encouraging to know that some progress is being made! Washington state HB 1181 passed in 2023, adding a requirement to the Growth Management Act that local comprehensive plans include a climate element.

“Climate elements must maximize economic, environmental, and social co-benefits, and prioritize environmental justice.”
(Washington State Department of Commerce)

The Benton-Franklin Council of Governments (BFCOG); Benton County; and the cities of Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, and West Richland are working together to plan for natural hazards worsened by climate — such as wildfire smoke, drought, and extreme heat — by including a climate element in their comprehensive plans. This Climate Policy Advisory Team (CPAT) includes representatives from several regional organizations, including Citizens Climate Lobby and Sustainable Tri-Cities. 

BFCOG plans to publish a draft of the regional climate plan next month. Public meetings will be held in September to gather feedback and additional input from the community. You can help local jurisdictions decide how to incorporate the regional draft into their comprehensive plans, which are required to be updated in 2026. 

Now is your chance to be heard!

Sustainable Tri-Cities will be offering workshops for discussion and support as we each find our voice in this critical matter. We encourage your participation so that together we can impact local sustainability. Working together strengthens our message! 

In preparation for workshop participation: