We are deeply concerned about the changes and challenges that both climate and energy uncertainty promise to create for our community. We believe that Skagit County would be wise to prepare now to meet these challenges.

Communities that plan ahead will have distinct advantages over those that do not. How will our local economy be affected if the price of oil exceeds $100 a barrel? How will regional climate shifts affect our water supply? We hope you agree that it is vital for us to identify local vulnerabilities based on the potential impacts of peak oil and climate change, plan to minimize the disruptions they will cause, and take advantage of the opportunities they will offer.

All across the country, communities are acting out of prudence and in the belief that new technologies and change can re-invigorate their economies, help slow climate change, and free them from a dangerous dependency on oil tied to unstable regimes. Close to home, Seattle, Portland, San Juan County, Jefferson County, and Whatcom County have all adopted resolutions and/or devised plans to address the upcoming difficulties and help their communities thrive in challenging times.

We intend to ask the county commissioners 1) to immediately adopt a resolution affirming the need to be proactive in the face of climate change and fossil fuel transition, and 2) to create a task force to develop a plan to ensure the long-term health and vitality of the Skagit County community.

Would you be willing to sign your name to the Beat the Heat Letter that urges the above actions? We will present this letter to the county commissioners at the start of the new year.

Our choices today will shape tomorrow’s impacts and will help us not only endure, but thrive. As a local leader, you know the value of foresight and planning. As a parent, grandparent, or simply a member of this community, you know that we owe it to future generations to leave them a healthy, sustainable world.

Thank you for your time, for all you do for Skagit County, and for helping to ensure the long-term well-being of our community.

Sincerely,

Executive Board, Skagit Beat the Heat

Evelyn Adams, Kevin Green, Von Kuehn, Ron Larson, Vince Streano