Long Beach Development News

Climate Commission Approves Minutes, Hears Drought Plan Updates, Elects New Chair and Vice Chair

The Climate Resilient and Sustainable City Commission meeting for June 25th, 2026, began with roll call, noting Commissioner Brown's excused absence. The minutes from the April 23rd, 2026 meeting were approved via motion by Commissioner Marsh and seconded by Commissioner Gaitan, with no public comment or commissioner questions. Following this, the commission received and filed a presentation from city staff on drought and the climate action plan. The presentation included updates on the Climate Action Plan (CAP) goals for drought, focusing on sustainable water supply, water efficiency, conservation, and locally captured water. Key action items discussed were implementing water use efficiency programs, community outreach on water conservation, improving green infrastructure, utilizing recycled water, and maximizing local water supplies, with a focus on equitable outreach to low-income and drought-vulnerable communities. The presentation highlighted 2025 accomplishments, including water use reports, turf removal for ocean-friendly gardens, a water-efficient device rebate program, updates to water resource and recycled water master plans, new green-certified businesses, community engagement events, a community survey for open space, a draft vision for downtown shoreline green space, and the provision of rain barrels. Dean Wang from Utilities provided further details on current and future initiatives, including the direct install appliance program, ocean-friendly gardens events, garden design seminars, the Haynes Generating Station recycled water project, and efforts to expand groundwater supplies to the western part of the city. The commission engaged in a detailed discussion regarding water resources, including groundwater usage, the Haynes power plant cooling system's impact on freshwater supply, the source and sufficiency of recycled water, and challenges in capturing and utilizing stormwater. The commission also discussed the process for creating and dissolving ad hoc committees, noting a previous committee closure and the formation of a new one to address gas-powered yard tools. A discussion ensued about the possibility of an ad hoc committee for the 91 freeway corridor's greening, with staff noting existing tree-planting efforts and challenges in community participation. The commission clarified its role as an advisory body to the city council. Finally, the commission received and filed announcements and resources from the Office of Climate Action and Sustainability, including updates on past spring events like the City Nature Challenge and tree planting initiatives, upcoming events such as 'Mulch Mayhem,' and planned new commissioner appointments. The meeting concluded with the election of officers: Commissioner Marsh was elected Chair, and Commissioner Bennett was elected Vice Chair.