2023 Annual CAP Progress ReportCity of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | A
ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
CLIMATE ACTION PLAN
2023
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 1
We acknowledge that Bainbridge Island is within the aboriginal territory of the suq´wabš
“People of Clear Salt Water” [Suquamish People]. Expert fishermen, canoe builders, and
basket weavers, the Suquamish People live in harmony with the lands and waterways along
Washington’s Central Salish Sea as they have for thousands of years. Here, they live and
protect the land and waters of their ancestors for future generations as promised by the
Point Elliot Treaty of 1855.
Published January 2024. For more information, visit www.bainbridgewa.gov/ClimateAction.
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 2
INTRODUCTION
The City of Bainbridge Island’s 2020 Climate Action Plan (CAP) identifies key actions the City
and community can take to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from energy use, buildings,
transportation, and waste generation and disposal. The CAP also identifies actions to protect natural
ecosystems and build resilience to prepare our people and our environment for the impacts of climate
change. Several initiatives were undertaken in 2023 to implement actions in the CAP and provide
meaningful opportunities for community engagement. This report highlights 2023 climate action
initiatives undertaken by the City, often in coordination with community partners and with the support
of the Climate Change Advisory Committee (CCAC).
The City of Bainbridge Island’s first Climate Action Plan (CAP) was adopted by City Council on
November 10, 2020. The 2020 CAP has three overarching goals:
Climate Action Plan
REDUCE
GREENHOUSE
GAS EMISSIONS
by 90%
by 2045
compared to
2014 levels,
with interim
goals in
2025 and
2035.
INSPIRE COMMUNITY ACTION
and partner with local and regional organizations
to take MEANINGFUL and EQUITABLE
climate change mitigation and adaptation actions.
90% by2045
60% by2035
GOAL 1 GOAL 2
GOAL 3
2014
25% by
2025
Ensure
Bainbridge Island is
CLIMATE
SAVVY
and can
WITHSTAND
THE IMPACTS
of climate change.
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 3
Reducing emissions is critical to slowing climate change.
Identify key actions you can take to help reduce the Island’s climate impact by visiting
www.ClimateSmartBainbridge.org.
2018 Community Greenhouse Gas Emissions
233,998 MTCO2e*
*metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 4
Hosted three community Climate Smart workshops with more than
380 attendees.
Salvaged over 13 tons of material from the remodel
of the Ted Spearman Justice
Center and diverted more than 26,000 pounds of building materials from
the landfill.
Provided 130 reusable cups
and lids for refreshments at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Ted Spearman
Justice Center.
Installed seven organic waste
bins to collect food waste and home compostable containers in downtown
Winslow.
Co-op members drove over
6,800 miles in 2023, preventing 2.7 metric tons of carbon dioxide in tailpipe
emissions by using electricity
instead of gasoline as fuel.
Added two EVs to the ZEV Co-op car share program at City Hall that
were used for 154 trips from
July–December 2023.
Increased the amount of electricity used on the Island
coming from renewable sources from 9% in 2021 to 11% in 2022 (the most recent year for which data is available).
Increased average
year-over-year growth in BI Rides service ridership by 31% in the first three months
of a City-funded marketing
campaign.
Added one new public EV charger at City Hall that was used 333 times from
July–December 2023.
Hosted nine Climate Smart community presentations reaching approximately 220
people.
Recognized three Climate Smart Leaders
on the Island.
Identified three new team leaders for the
Climate Smart Challenge.
Staffed Climate Smart booths at five events reaching more
than 400 people.
Hired one new City staff member to work on CAP
implementation, with a focus on sustainable transportation.
Reduced 146 tons of carbon
dioxide with actions completed by 300 residents in the Climate Smart
Challenge.
COMPOST
Provided more than 35 five-gallon water jugs, with rechargeable pumps,
for water refill stations at community events.
2023 KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
Status update on the 79 priority actions included in the 2020 CAP.
2023 CLIMATE ACTION BY THE NUMBERS
Implementation
• Hired the City’s first Sustainable Transportation Coordinator to support sustainable
transportation initiatives as outlined in the CAP and Sustainable Transportation Plan (STP).
• Developed and tested a climate and racial equity lens to consider climate change impacts
and equity considerations for City projects and programs.
21%
Complete
33%
In Progress
46%
Future Action
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 5
Energy
• Increased the amount of electricity used on the Island coming from renewable sources from
9% in 2021 to 11% in 2022 (the most recent year for which data is available).
• Coordinated with community partners to evaluate opportunities to generate 100%
renewable energy on the Island by 2040 and identify priority locations for potential solar
plus battery storage to add resilience as part of the US Department of Energy’s Energy
Transitions Initiative Partnership Project.
• Converted 94% of the City’s landscaping tools from gasoline to electricity fuel.
Buildings
• Identified parameters for a 2024 solar panel project on the Island to offset 274 metric tons
of carbon emissions associated with operation of the new Ted Spearman Justice Center.
• Released a Request for Qualifications to design and administer a 2024 residential heat
pump installation pilot program to reduce energy use in the winter and increase resilience
by cooling homes during summer heat events.
Transportation
• Increased the number of electric vehicles (EVs) in the City fleet to 3% of eligible vehicles.
• Worked with community partners to launch a new community EV car share program with
two cars and one public EV charger at City Hall.
• Completed a study identifying options and resources needed to convert all applicable
vehicles in the City’s fleet from fossil fuels to electricity.
• Supported BI Ride marketing efforts resulting in an average 31% year-over-year growth in
service ridership in the campaign’s first three months (July–September 2023).
• Completed a comprehensive study of actions to reduce transportation related GHG
emissions on the Island (such as providing e-bike subsidies, expanding EV car share options,
and increasing telework) and identified a data source and methodology for measuring the
reduction in vehicle miles traveled by people on the Island.
Natural Environment
• Created a climate-friendly list of tree and plant species with best practices for helping
urban trees thrive on the Island.
• Received recognition as a Tree City USA for the 18th year for a commitment to care for
and grow the Island’s urban forest.
• Began work to create an online GIS-based map showing existing and future flood/sea level
rise vulnerability for the Island.
• Completed the Yeomalt neighborhood stormwater drainage improvement project
and applied for grant funding to assess sea level rise adaptation strategies for
Manitou Beach Drive.
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Waste
• Supported local businesses with implementation of the 2023 waste reduction regulations.
• Adopted new municipal code requirements and a revised list of required home compostable
food service ware products for 2024.
• Installed seven organic waste bins in downtown Winslow to collect food waste and home
compostable food containers.
• Initiated efforts for the City to formally contract with Bainbridge Disposal for solid waste
services on the Island and to better identify waste streams and diversion opportunities.
• Adopted an ordinance requiring the City to procure, use, provide education about, and
report compost use, per House Bill 1799.
Community Engagement
• Increased community participation in the Climate Smart Challenge with 300 households
completing actions to help reduce 146 tons of carbon dioxide—equivalent to the GHG
emissions from approximately 31 gasoline-powered passenger vehicles driven for one year.
• Hosted three Climate Smart workshops to promote home energy conservation, climate-
friendly food choices, and electric vehicles and bikes with more than 380 attendees.
• Provided interpreters and translations of educational materials in multiple languages to
support more equitable community outreach.
Learn more about the City’s current and past climate action programming by visiting
www.bainbridgewa.gov/ClimateAction.
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IMPLEMENTATION
KEY GOALS IN CAP:
• Initiate implementation: put in place critical foundational elements for CAP implementation
and begin to implement the highest-priority actions with available resources.
• Consistently consider equity in all CAP implementation and engagement efforts.
• Update information and plans on a regular basis.
• Identify costs and funding opportunities for CAP implementation.
Sustainable Transportation Coordinator Joins the City
New staff joined the City in the fall of 2023 to lead the development and
implementation of non-capital projects and programs to reduce GHG
emissions from transportation and vehicle miles traveled (VMT) on the Island.
The new Sustainable Transportation Coordinator is working closely with staff
and community partners to develop and implement sustainable
transportation programs, such as Bike to Work/School Day events, and
develop education and outreach materials and programs to promote
walking, bicycling, and transit ridership on the Island. The position also coordinates the
Commute Trip Reduction program for City employees.
Applying a Climate Lens to City Projects
Staff collaborated with the CCAC to develop a climate lens tool to consider climate change impacts
when developing City projects, plans, and programs. The tool includes a series of questions to help
project managers identify opportunities to reduce GHG emissions, include elements that address
future climate change impacts, and consider actions to reduce GHG emissions associated with public
outreach efforts (such as food choices, meeting location and transportation options). Staff worked
with the Steering Committee for the Comprehensive Plan and the Winslow Subarea Plan periodic
updates to integrate use of the tool for community engagement efforts in 2023. The full climate lens
tool is slated for testing more broadly on City projects in early 2024, in partnership with a new racial
equity lens tool also developed in 2023.
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ENERGY
Key Goals in the CAP:
• Increase energy conservation and efficiency throughout the planned and existing built
environment, including customer-owned generation.
• Eliminate carbon-based energy sources from all energy sectors.
• Create energy self-sufficiency for emergency preparedness and increase energy
infrastructure reliability and resilience considering the changing climate.
Increasing Community Use of Renewable Energy
The City of Bainbridge Island was recognized as a Green Power
Partner by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
for 2022. The EPA established the Green Power Partnership
in 2001 to encourage organizations to voluntarily use green
power to protect human health and the environment. In 2022,
approximately 11% of electricity used on the Island came from
renewable sources—up from 9% in 2021. That includes 379 residential customers, 38 commercial
customers and two City-owned facilities generating renewable energy on the Island.
Analyzing 100% Renewable Energy Options
In 2022, the City was one of 12 communities in the country selected to receive technical assistance
from the US Department of Energy’s Energy Transitions Initiative Partnership Project (ETIPP). In 2023,
City staff and community partners worked with representatives from the Pacific Northwest National
Laboratory, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, and Spark Northwest to evaluate:
1. Anticipated electricity loads for
the Island in 2040, considering
increased vehicle and ferry
electrification.
2. Options for on-Island renewable
energy generation, with an
evaluation of potential solar, wind,
marine/tidal and waste-to-energy
resources.
3. Opportunities to increase the
community’s energy resilience
by allowing for all or parts of the
community to be able to operate as
an islanded grid during outages.
Multiple gatherings were held with collaborators on the Island in 2023, and a final report is
anticipated for community review in early 2024.
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Working with PSE to Address Energy Issues
The CCAC hosted a City Council Study Session with Puget Sound Energy (PSE) in February 2023
to discuss how the City, PSE, and the community can work collaboratively to achieve goals
outlined in the CAP. The session focused specifically on opportunities to increase the installation
of publicly available EV charging stations and identify future Community Solar project applications,
with additional questions regarding PSE’s progress in complying with the Clean Energy
Transformation Act.
PSE Franchise Agreement
City staff submitted final comments on the draft franchise agreement for review by PSE. A final
agreement is anticipated in early 2024. A subcommittee with representatives from City staff, the
CCAC and the Utility Advisory Committee (UAC) is working with PSE on a proposed memorandum
of understanding (MOU) to complement the franchise agreement and address shared goals related
to climate action, resilience, and reliability. The MOU is anticipated to include the following areas of
potential collaboration:
• Energy efficiency in existing buildings
• On-Island solar energy projects
• Electric vehicles and charging infrastructure
• Battery storage and resilience
• Reliability and undergrounding of power lines
Have you signed up to save
energy with PSE’s Peak
Energy Rewards Program?
You could get paid $75 a year and save
up to 15% on your heating and cooling
bill for installing a smart thermostat in your
home. PSE’s Peak Rewards, a demand
response pilot program specifically for
Bainbridge Island, uses smart technology
to help meet our community’s energy
demand to address electric capacity needs
on the Island. Simply enroll your smart
thermostat to get started. If you don’t already
have one, you can get one installed through the program with a rebate to help cover costs.
Participants receive $75 annually and will be eligible for higher rebates on heating equipment,
weatherization, and more.
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City Converts to Electric Landscaping Tools
In 2018, the City recorded close to 6,500 gallons
of fuel consumption for the use of gas-powered
equipment for vegetation management, accounting
for about 3% of the overall emissions from City
government operations. In January 2022, the City
ordered two zero-emission electric leaf blowers for
testing in its operations. After supply-chain delays,
they finally arrived in early 2023. Approximately
94% of the City’s landscaping tools were converted
from gasoline to electricity fuel in 2023. Two gas-
powered chainsaws with longer bars that can cut
large diameter trees were kept as backup tools for
use when authorized by the department lead or in the
event of an emergency. Learn more about electric
landscaping tool options on the City website.
Reducing Emissions from Community Use of Landscaping Equipment
Gas-powered landscaping equipment can contribute to noise and air pollution with negative health
impacts, especially for workers using this equipment for several hours a day. Two surveys were
released in July 2023 to solicit feedback from residents and local landscaping businesses about
how the City could support users in switching from gas-powered landscaping equipment to electric
equipment. More than 500 community members completed online or print versions of the electric
landscaping tools survey in July 2023. Fifty-one businesses completed surveys in either English or
Spanish, and eight were randomly selected to receive a $15 Ace Hardware gift card. City staff are
currently working on proposed next steps and anticipate review with the community and City Council
in 2024.
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BUILDINGS
Key Goals in the CAP:
• Reduce GHG emissions from all municipal, commercial, industrial, and
residential buildings.
• Establish procedures to ensure buildings and infrastructure are resilient to climate change
impacts (e.g., higher precipitation, sea level rise, wildfire risk and temperatures).
Offsetting Carbon Emissions from Electricity Use at the
Ted Spearman Justice Center
In May 2023, City Council directed the CCAC to recommend a project to offset approximately
274 metric tons of carbon emissions associated with operation of the new Ted Spearman Justice
Center from 2024–2045. In June 2023, the City Council directed the City Manager to pursue the
CCAC’s recommendations—a 15kW solar photovoltaic (PV) system on the roof of the new Justice
Center and a 120kW solar PV system elsewhere on the Island. For the latter, the City invited public
agencies to submit sites for consideration in January 2024.
2024 Community Heat Pump Pilot Program
City staff worked with a subgroup of the CCAC to outline a proposal for a community heat pump
pilot program. A community survey was launched on the Engage Bainbridge website in July 2023 to
gauge community interest in a City-sponsored heat pump education and incentive program with more
than 160 responses. A request for qualifications was released in October 2023 with full proposals
due in January 2024 to solicit a program administrator to help finalize program details, identify HVAC
installers and promote education and incentives for energy-efficient heat pumps. The City plans to
provide incentives to cover some or all the costs associated with ductless heat pumps for a limited
number of single-family homes, with a priority focus on low- and moderate-income households.
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Installing Solar + Battery Storage at Community Disaster Hubs
In October 2022, City Council authorized the use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to
install additional solar panels at the Waterfront Park Community Center and to install solar panels
and battery energy storage at Hyla School Middle School. The structural integrity of the roof at the
Community Center was evaluated in early 2023 to confirm the structural integrity of roof to support
additional solar panels as an initial step to releasing a bid package. While the roof was deemed
eligible to support additional panels, this project is currently on hold pending potential expansion
plans for the Senior Center (housed in the Community Center). City staff are working to develop
and release specifications for adding solar panels and battery storage at Hyla Middle School in
early 2024.
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TRANSPORTATION
Key Goals in the CAP:
• Reduce motorized vehicle miles traveled (VMT) per capita.
• Reduce GHG emissions from motorized transportation, including through electrification
of all modes (on-road, off-road, and ferries) and encourage reduction of air travel.
Enhanced Marketing for BI Ride
The City Council provided $100,000 to
Kitsap Transit in Transportation Benefit
Funds in 2023 to support communication
and engagement services related to
BI Ride, an on-demand bus service for
travel on the Island. The new campaign
was designed to increase awareness of
BI Ride service, increase use of the on-
demand app, and increase the overall
number of people using BI Ride.
In the first three months after launching
the marketing campaign, Kitsap Transit
reported approximately 37,000 BI Ride
webpage visits and an average 31% year-over-year growth in service ridership, exceeding the initial
goal of increasing ridership by 20%. Kitsap Transit plans to continue marketing efforts using these
City funds through late 2024.
City Hall Employees Bike to Work Day 2023
May of each year is designated as
Bike Everywhere Month—a time to
support, encourage, and celebrate
all things bicycling. City Hall
employees celebrated with a
Bike to Work event in May 2023.
All employees were invited to a
lunchtime celebration with special
guests from Kitsap Transit and
Squeaky Wheels, information on
bicycle commuting, and basic
bicycle repairs.
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Electric Vehicle Car Sharing Program
A new community car share program with EVs launched at City Hall in June 2023. Mobility for All—a
non-profit advocacy group based on Bainbridge Island—received grant funds from the Washington
State Department of Transportation’s Zero-Emissions Access Program to purchase two EVs and
two Level 2 EV chargers—one for the car share vehicles and one for public use. The City provided
parking stalls and electrical work
to support the program, which is
administered by ZEV co-op. From
July–December 2023, the new
public EV charger at City Hall was
used 333 times, while the car share
vehicles were used for 154 trips
covering 6,800 miles. Mobility
for All received a second grant in
2023 and plans to add a third EV
to the car share program along
with a solar-powered EV charger in
2024. For more information, please
visit https://zev.coop/.
Electrifying the City Fleet
The City added two 2023 Volkswagen
ID.4 EVs to the fleet in the Summer of
2023, bringing the total number of EVs
in the City fleet to three, or 3% of the
eligible fleet. The City also completed a
study to assess the best opportunities to
convert light-, medium- and heavy-duty
fleet vehicles to electric or alternative
fuel vehicles in 2023. That study
recommended the City prioritize resources
to install charging infrastructure and
complete associated electrical upgrades
to accommodate EVs as they are added to
the fleet. Three additional electric vehicle
purchases are planned in 2024 to replace
gas-powered vehicles in the City fleet.
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 16
IMPLEMENTING THE SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
The STP, approved by City Council in 2022, included endorsement of the Connecting Centers Program,
which calls for construction of a network of safe, low-stress bicycling infrastructure connecting Winslow
to the Lynwood Center, Island Center, and Rolling Bay neighborhoods and nearby schools. The
Connecting Centers Program also calls for traffic calming projects on key routes and identifies new
investments in public transit, mobility hubs, and community programs and policies designed to create
safe, comfortable, connected mobility networks for all modes of travel on the Island.
Public Works staff continued to work on identifying funding and implementing initial capital projects
identified in the STP, including the addition of bike lanes along Eagle Harbor Drive. A Sustainable
Transportation Coordinator was hired in late 2023 to collaborate with internal and external partners
on non-capital projects, programs and policies identified in the STP. A summary of key STP activities
completed in 2023 is provided below.
Grant Funding to Plan the Sound To Olympics Trail
The City recently received a $1.7 million federal award to plan
the Sound to Olympics Trail from Winslow to the Agate Pass
Bridge. The award is part of a larger, $16.13 million Rebuilding
American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant,
administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation. The grant
will plan and design 100 miles of new multi-use trails in the Puget
Sound to Pacific corridor, from Bainbridge Island to La Push, west
of Forks on the Pacific Coast. The RAISE grant was awarded to the
City of Port Angeles, and the City of Bainbridge Island was one of
several co-applicants. Projects on Bainbridge Island include crossing
improvements at High School Road and on several trail segments:
Sakai Park to Madison Avenue; Madison Avenue to Sportsman Club
Road; Sportsman to Koura Road; and Koura Road to the Agate Pass
Bridge. Approximately two miles of the route are funded to 100%
design under the RAISE grant, and 4.5 miles funded to 30% design. The grant does not fund trail
construction. New multi-use trails and improvements will be planned by the local governments, and
construction funding will be sought through future grants or other sources.
Slower Speeds Adopted Across the Island
The City Council lowered speed limits on the island with adoption of Ordinance No. 2023-03 in
January 2023. This action was identified in the STP to enhance safety for people biking and walking
in the community by decreasing speeds by no more than 5 MPH on major and minor roads. Most
local access roads on the Island now have a default speed limit of 20 MPH unless otherwise posted.
Quantifying Reduced Emissions with Implementation of the STP
The City recently completed a study to:
• measure the GHG emissions reduction potential of the Connecting Centers Program from the STP,
• evaluate additional strategies that could provide substantial progress towards reducing GHG
emissions on Bainbridge Island,
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 17
• establish 2021 VMT and transportation
related GHG emissions data for the
Island, and
• analyze the impact of federal and state
policies and legislation on future GHG
emissions related to transportation.
The report also quantified the potential
reduction in VMT and GHG emissions from
eight strategies that ranged from policy
changes, such as charging for parking in
Winslow, to incentive programs, such as
subsidies for electric bicycles. Key findings
from the study are highlighted below and in
an online Storymap, with a detailed report
posted on the City website.
Accelerating Implementation of the Sustainable Transportation Plan
The City was selected as one of nine cities nationwide to participate in City Thread’s 2023 Accelerated
Mobility Playbook technical assistance program designed to help fast-forward the build-out of mobility
networks highlighted in the 2022 STP. The Playbook outlines six specific strategies for Bainbridge Island
and concludes with a set of customized recommendations to improve mobility network implementation
methods, build lasting and effective partnerships with community stakeholders, and amplify existing
public support for changes to the city’s streets. Learn more and read the full report on the City website.
Strategies to Accelerate the Build-Out of Mobility Networks on the Island
BUILDING A NETWORK, QUICKLY: With community support and political will, it’s possible to rapidly accelerate the pace of network implementation (as outlined in the adopted Sustainable Transportation Plan) today.
RESOURCING STRATEGIC PARTNERS: Collaborate on localized outreach activities that diversify the base of support in neighborhoods to create working relationships build on trust and accountability.
BUILDING MOMENTUM AND CONNECTIVITY: Align with community partners to capitalize on growing popular support for infrastructure improvements that make it safer and easier for residents to walk, bicycle or use low-speed mobility devices on the City’s on- and off-street mobility network. 1
ORGANIZING SUPPORTERS: Engage residents with diverse viewpoints, representing interests outside of mobility infrastructure. Squeaky Wheels, in partnership with aligned community organizations, is well positioned to mobilize the community in a way that encourages businesses, elected officials, and residents to view mobility as an urgent need. 2
ACCELERATING CIVIC ENGAGEMENT: Develop communication and outreach campaigns to garner support for a safe, interconnected mobility network from people who drive every day.3
CULTIVATING LOCAL MESSENGERS: Create a diverse coalition that represents Island residents to communicate the vision for active transportation and the associated benefits and tradeoffs. 45
6
Implementing the eight recommended
strategies—combined with anticipated
electrification of vehicles and the
Seattle-Bainbridge Island ferry, and
reduced air travel/improved airplane
fuel efficiency—would reduce transportation-related
GHG emissions by approximately 40,000 metric
tons by 2045, or 67% of the associated CAP goal
to reduce transportation-related GHG emissions by
60,000 metric tons by 2045.
TARGET
WITH STP
Implementing capital projects from the Connecting
Centers Program in the STP could reduce total and
per capita on-Island VMT
by about 6%, which is
below the CAP target to
reduce VMT per capita
25% by 2030.
TARGET: REDUCE by 25%
VMT PER CAPITA
With STP implementation: 6%
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Key Goals in the CAP:
• Steward Bainbridge Island’s natural resources to function as healthy, resilient ecosystems
that can continue to serve multiple ecological functions including providing habitat,
maintaining the hydrologic cycle and storing carbon in the face of the added stresses
of climate change.
• Protect and maintain the integrity of our Island’s surface and groundwater resources in
the face of climate change.
• Steward our Island’s shorelines to allow for resilience in the face of climate impacts
including sea level rise.
• Support an agricultural system that prioritizes climate change resilience, local food
production, and ecosystem services including soil carbon storage and water management.
Climate Smart Tree Planting List
The City’s arborist worked with the Bainbridge Island Land Trust and the Metro Park & Recreation
District to create a preferred list of tree and plant species expected to be favored by climate change
projections for use on Island properties. While the primary focus of this list is to inform City planning
and restoration efforts, it can also be used to advise local landowners when planting new trees and
be applied to climate savvy development. Learn more on the City website.
Bainbridge Recognized as a Tree City USA for 18 Years
In early 2023, the City was recognized as a 2022 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation for
the 18th year. The City was recognized for making a commitment to care for and grow the Island’s
urban forest and for meeting the program’s four requirements noted below.
1. Maintaining a tree board or department.
2. Having a community tree ordinance.
3. Spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry.
4. Celebrating Arbor Day with an annual proclamation.
What to Avoid
These trees are not currently considered climate-ready due to pest
and diseases issues, or invasive tendencies. This list is subject to
change based on scientific research and changing pest forecasts.
• All “true ash” species (Fraxinus spp.)
• White-barked birches such as paper birch (Betula
papyrifera) and Himalayan birch (Betula jacquemontii)
• Tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima)
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Advancing the Groundwater Management Plan
In 2023, the City contracted with a consultant firm, EA
Engineering, Science and Technology, to continue work on the
City’s Groundwater Management Plan. The consultant team
worked with the staff and the Groundwater Management Sub-
Committee (comprised of members from the UAC, Environmental
Technical Advisory Committee and CCAC) to develop the
framework for the groundwater modeling that will inform the
plan. Staff anticipates completing the modeling in the first half of
2024 and building out the corresponding plan for City Council
approval before the end of the year. The plan will identify
groundwater management-related actions the City should
consider implementing over the next 5–10 years to mitigate
groundwater impacts from development and climate change.
Improving Water Quality & Aquatic Habitat
City staff completed water quality sampling throughout 2023 to
improve water quality and aquatic habitat on the Island. Staff
completed quarterly sampling events of 17 surface water sites
which continue to show that E. coli bacteria levels are impacting
the beneficial uses of our streams. Approximately 47% exceed Washington State water quality
standards. Targeted and enhanced bacteria monitoring is proposed in the upcoming Stormwater
System Plan. The City also adopted the salmon monitoring program from the Bainbridge Island
Watershed Council this year and successfully monitored four stream reaches with 11 volunteers.
Public Works staff will have 2023 data available in early 2024.
Mapping Sea Level Rise on the Island
In 2023, the City selected a consultant to conduct a Sea Level Rise Flooding Vulnerability and Risk
Assessment for the Island. This project will result in an online GIS-based map showing existing and future
flood vulnerability. The final report will inform capital facilities planning for the 2024 Comprehensive
Plan Periodic Update and summarize vulnerabilities for future adaptation efforts. Deliverables from this
project are due by June 2024.
Assessing Sea Level Rise Adaptation Strategies
The City applied to the Building Resilient
Infrastructure and Communities program to assess
sea level rise adaptation strategies for Manitou
Beach Drive. This project was advanced to the
next stage for potential award by the State in mid-
2023. If funded, this project will identify mitigation
and adaptation strategies for addressing shoreline
roads impacted by sea level rise in accordance
with best practices for both roadway safety and
shoreline management. Staff anticipates an update
on funding for this project in early 2024.
• Streamflow is continuously
monitored at five sites in
partnership with the Kitsap
Public Utility District. Some
streams show declines in
summer baseflow while
others are steady.
• Beavers are recolonizing
multiple watersheds and
altering stream hydrology.
While ecosystem recovery is
beginning in these flooded
streams, they currently show
diminished dissolved oxygen
and increased temperatures.
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 20
New Resources on Preparing for King Tides
King tides bring unusually high water levels, and they can cause local tidal flooding. Over time,
sea level rise is raising the height of tidal systems, and high tides are reaching higher and extending
further inland than in the past. King tides preview how sea level rise will affect coastal places.
The Island experienced a king tide event in December 2022 that was 0.7 feet above the highest
observed tide to date. That event caused flooding that obstructed access to roadways and impacted
private property. New resources are now available on the City website with tips on how to prepare
for king tides, including supplies to help prepare for localized flooding. Learn more about actions to
take to prepare for king tides.
Preparing City Infrastructure for Sea Level Rise
In early 2023, Public Works staff evaluated the impact of the December 2022 king tide event at
various sites around the City, including: Point Monroe Drive NE/Fay Bainbridge, Point Monroe Drive
NE, Manitou Beach Drive, NE Yeomalt Point Drive, the Wing Point sewer pump station, Lower Lovell
sewer pump station, Point White Drive NE, and the Pleasant Beach Drive residential sewer grinder
pump. Findings from this evaluation are being used to modify upcoming projects in these areas to
address future flooding potential and frequency. In those areas where solutions are not immediately
apparent, such as Point Monroe, residents should begin developing flooding adaptation strategies
based on emergency preparedness best practices.
Yeomalt Drainage Improvements
Work on the Yeomalt neighborhood
stormwater drainage improvement project
was completed in November 2023. This
project included the placement of new
storm drainpipes, ditch enhancements
and roadway paving along Yeomalt Point
Drive, Madrona Drive NE, and Dingly
Drive NE. The improvements will enhance
drainage conditions in the neighborhood,
including resolving localized roadway
flooding issues.
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 21
WASTE
Key Goals in the CAP:
• Reduce Island residential, commercial, and industrial waste generation.
• Increase diversion of waste from the landfill.
• Optimize collection and disposal systems to minimize GHG emissions.
• Ensure that any new waste-related infrastructure, such as transfer stations or composting
facilities, are not sited in current or future hazard areas.
Updates to Single-Use Plastic Waste Regulations
In June 2021, City Council passed Ordinance 2021-18, which only allows
single-use food service products to be provided when a customer asks or confirms they would
like to use them. In November 2021, City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2021-34 to reduce
plastic waste from food service and lodging establishments. Both ordinances were passed
in support of a priority action in the CAP to reduce single-use plastics to protect our marine
environment and reduce GHG emissions.
City staff held several meetings with Island businesses in 2023 to receive feedback on
implementation of the new regulations. Updates to Bainbridge Island Municipal Code Chapter
8.24 were adopted by Council in September 2023 based on feedback from local businesses
and City staff experience with implementation.
Key changes to the Disposable Food Service Ware and Waste Reduction Regulations
are listed on page 22 and available on the City website.
Business Outreach on Waste Reduction
The City partnered with the Bainbridge Island Chamber of Commerce, Bainbridge Island Downtown
Association, and Bainbridge Island Zero Waste to administer the Business Ambassador program
again in 2023. Business Ambassadors visited retail food establishments subject to the City’s waste
reduction regulations and worked with COBI staff to develop enhanced educational materials for
both business staff and customers.
Collecting Organic Waste in Winslow
In support of the City’s waste reduction regulations, seven bins
were installed in downtown Winslow to collect organic waste
in the summer of 2023. The new “Compost Only” containers
can accept food waste, napkins, wooden utensils, pizza
boxes and other natural fiber-based home compostable food
containers. The new containers include images and text in
five languages—English, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, and
Vietnamese—to help quickly communicate what goes where
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 22
2024
BAINBRIDGE ISLAND
2024 WASTE REDUCTION REQUIREMENTS
December 2023
NO MANDATORY DISPOSABLE CUP FEE: Island businesses are no longer
required to charge a $0.25 disposable cup fee. Businesses may continue to charge the
$0.25 fee but must remove any language previously added to receipts or menus stating
it’s a City requirement. Customers are still encouraged to bring their own reusable mug.
REUSABLE PRODUCTS FOR ONSITE DINING: Reusable food service ware is
required for onsite dining and encouraged for to-go orders. Businesses without onsite or
off-site dishwashing capacity may petition the City for a full or partial one-year waiver.
HOME COMPOSTABLE TO-GO PRODUCTS: In 2024, businesses must provide
the following food service ware products in a home compostable form for to-go orders:
WRAPPING HOT FOODS IN FOIL: Metal foil and metal foil-faced papers are
allowed to wrap hot foods, such as hamburgers and burritos.
SELF-SERVICE BINS FOR SINGLE-USE, TO-GO ITEMS: The following
single-use items can be made available to customers in cylinders, bins, dispensers, containers,
or other means on a self-service basis for to-go order after customers affirm they want them:
✓Condiments in packaging ✓Utensils (home compostable)
✓Beverage cup lids ✓Straws (home compostable)
STYROFOAM CONTAINERS: Expanded polystyrene food service ware items
(all #6 plastics and Styrofoam) are prohibited in the City of Bainbridge Island.
In June 2024, the sale and distribution of expanded polystyrene food service products
like containers, plates, bowls, clamshells, trays and cups will be banned in all of
Washington State.
Confused? Have questions? Please visit:
www.bainbridgewa.gov/ZeroWaste
✓ Clamshell containers
✓Cone cups
✓Cup sleeves
✓Cutlery (forks, knives, spoons, chopsticks,
including paper-bundled sets)
✓Drinking straws
✓Food boxes/folded paper takeout boxes
with polylactic acid (PLA) lining
✓Food contact paper/wax paper
✓Hot beverage cups
✓Napkins
✓Pizza boxes (takeout)
✓Platters (large oval plates)
✓Salad bowls
✓Serving tongs
✓Stirrers
✓ Takeout/catering trays/breakfast platters
(multiple compartments or one large
compartment)
✓Tasting spoons
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 23
for both residents and visitors from around the
world. Nearby containers collecting materials
for recycling and disposal to the landfill were
also updated with new signage.
City staff monitored contamination in the
new compost containers and worked with
Bainbridge Island Zero Waste to perform two
audits of materials collected in the containers
to assess container style and messaging for the
collection of organic waste in a public setting.
Common contaminants included plastic cutlery,
plastic lids, and plastic cups. City staff will continue to refine messaging and outreach to reduce
contamination. Learn more about what can be placed in the organic waste bins in this short video.
2024 Community Education on Waste Reduction
The City was awarded a $39,777 grant from the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Waste
Reduction and Recycling Education program in late 2023 to increase resident education about the
City’s waste reduction ordinance and provide tips and tools to increase food waste composting. Staff
plans to develop new educational materials, host community events and workshops, and provide
free, countertop food waste collection buckets for residents in 2024.
Zero Waste Hydration Stations for Community Events
City-sponsored Hydration Stations were operated by
the Bainbridge Island Chamber of Commerce during
Celebrate Bainbridge events in July 2023, allowing
event participants to fill reusable water bottles for free
at multiple locations. Hydration Stations were also
made available free of charge for Juneteenth and
National Night Out celebrations. Approximately 15
five-gallon bottles of water, with rechargeable pumps,
remain available for use at future events. All materials
are available at no cost for public events on the Island.
Please contact the Chamber of Commerce to learn more.
Reducing Waste at City Events
Reusable cups were provided at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Ted Spearman Justice
Center in November 2023 to reduce waste. Approximately130 reusable cups and lids were
provided by R.Cup, based in Seattle, with bins provided to collect used cups at the end of the event
for washing and reuse. The City’s employee Green Team also worked with department staff to
provide reusable and/or home compostable dishware for staff events throughout the year, often
borrowing large quantities of reusable dishes from Sustainable Bainbridge’s Zero Waste Tableware
Lending Library.
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 24
Repurposing Materials from a City Remodel
The Ted Spearman Justice Center is a former medical clinic that was renovated to serve as the City’s
new police station and municipal court. Clark Construction Inc. selectively salvaged over 13 tons
of material from the building to build a series of tiny homes. This project diverted more than 26,000
pounds of building materials from the landfill and provided affordable housing for local farm workers
at Morales Farm.
Fiberglass Sailboat Recycled
The City’s recently retired Harbormaster helped facilitate a project to keep abandoned fiberglass
sailboats out of the landfill. The City lifted an old boat out of the water, crunched it with an excavator
and then put it in a debris box for recycling. According to the recycling company, the fiberglass hull
was shredded and then put into glass reinforced concrete.
Evaluating Future Solid Waste Management Options
Bainbridge Island is currently served by Bainbridge Disposal, a locally owned waste management
and recycling company, regulated by the Washington Utility and Transportation Commission with
no contract or franchise agreement for solid waste services with the City. In August 2022, the City
contracted for a study to review the existing solid waste management system, evaluate collection
management options, and review diversion programs and facility options. A report outlining next
steps for the City to accomplish waste-related goals outlined in the CAP was presented to Council
in July 2023. Key highlights included a recommendation for the City to:
• formally contract with a waste hauler,
• study the composition of waste generated on the Island to better identify waste streams and
diversion opportunities, and
• designate a City staff representative to participate in the Kitsap County Solid Waste Advisory
Committee.
In September 2023, City Council authorized the City Manager to offer Bainbridge Disposal a period
of exclusive negotiation to prepare a solid waste collection and disposal contract and to assign a
staff member to represent the City on the Kitsap County Solid Waste Advisory Committee in 2024.
Work will continue to implement recommendations from this study in 2024.
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 25
New Compost Procurement Ordinance
In June 2022, the Governor signed House Bill 1799 into law requiring cities
and counties to implement a composting ordinance. In June 2023, the City adopted an
ordinance requiring the City to procure, use, provide education about, and report compost use
under specific circumstances. The ordinance requires the following:
• When planning City-funded projects or soliciting and reviewing bids for such projects,
departments shall identify whether compost can be utilized. Applicable projects include
landscaping, construction and post-construction, erosion prevention, stormwater runoff, and
filter pollutants, among others.
• When procuring compost, the City is required to prioritize local products, certified by
nationally recognized organizations, or derived from municipal solid waste programs.
• The City is required to provide technical assistance and education regarding the use of food
and yard waste compost to City staff, residents and businesses.
• The City is also required to measure and report the total
tons of organic material diverted throughout the year
along with the volume, cost, and source of the compost to
the Washington State Department of Ecology beginning
at the end of 2024 and each even-numbered year
thereafter.
Per State regulations, City departments are not required to use
compost products if they are not available within a reasonable
time or distance from the project; the compost products
available do not comply with City purchasing standards;
compost products available do not comply with federal, state,
or local health, quality and safety standards; or compost
prices are not reasonable or competitive.
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 26
WHY IS COMPOSTING IMPORTANT?
Composting food scraps creates a rich
soil additive and keeps these materials
out of landfills where they take up
space and release methane, a potent
greenhouse gas. A home composting bin
also provides a great place to dispose of
the home compostable food service ware
required for to-go orders from local food
establishments!
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Key Goals in the CAP:
• Increase the Bainbridge community’s awareness and knowledge about current and future
climate change related impacts and ways to reduce those impacts.
• Inspire action across the community and partner with local and regional organizations to
take meaningful climate change mitigation and adaptation actions.
• Empower and prepare COBI, Bainbridge Island residents, and Bainbridge Island
businesses for climate impacts and emergencies.
Island Residents Take Action to Reduce GHG Emissions
A total of 300 Bainbridge Island households joined the Climate Smart
Challenge through the end of 2023 and completed actions to help
reduce 146 tons of carbon dioxide—equivalent to the GHG emissions
from approximately 31 gasoline-powered passenger vehicles driven
for one year. Participation in the Challenge was highlighted in City
communications throughout the year with three special community
events in the Spring.
• Climate Smart plant-based protein food workshop and cooking demonstration (April)
• PSE webinar on smart thermostats and their Peak Rewards program (May)
• Kitsap County Electric Vehicle and Bicycle Expo (May)
Composting to Combat Climate Change
Everyone who earned at least 10,000 points in the Challenge through the end of May 2023
was entered in a drawing to win an outdoor or indoor composting bin. A total of three qualifying
households elected to receive a new bin for composting food waste at home. Congratulations to our
winners and thank you to everyone who participated!
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 27
Electric Vehicle and Bike Expo
More than 300 people attended the Kitsap Electric Vehicle and Bike Expo in May 2023 at
Woodward Middle School to learn more about electric vehicle and electric bicycle options for
low-carbon travel. The Expo was organized by Climate Action Bainbridge and supported goals
outlined in the City’s CAP and STP to:
• transition the City’s fleet to electric vehicles and biofuels,
• increase the number of electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles on the Island,
• increase the mode share of active transportation (such as biking and walking),
• support the use of electric bikes, and
• install more charging infrastructure for vehicles, bikes, etc.
Several dealers and approximately 20 residents had EVs on display, including the City’s first EV—a
Ford Mach-E for the police department, and an all-electric bus from Kitsap Transit. Attendees had an
opportunity learn more about electric vehicles, the new community EV car share program, and other
low-carbon travel options at booths with Puget Sound Energy, the City of Bainbridge Island, ZEV
Co-op, Pacific Mobility, Bainbridge Greenways, and others. Attendees also got to test ride various
models of e-bikes from BI Cycle.
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 28
Climate Smart Cooking Demo
Approximately 25 people attended a special Climate Smart in the Kitchen cooking demonstration
at BARN in April 2023 with vegan consultant and islander Nancy Travis. Attendees learned how
to lower their kitchen carbon footprint and add healthier plant-based ingredients to meals, all while
earning points in the City’s Climate Smart Challenge. Nancy hosted a live cooking demonstration
accompanied by tasty samples and a recipe and food swap handout.
Ordway Otters Receive 2023 Earth Day Proclamation
In the fall of 2022, Ordway Elementary School’s fourth graders were invited to pilot the City’s
Climate Smart Youth program. This six-week program helped students measure their carbon
footprints, identify concrete climate solutions,
and address climate anxiety. Ordway’s
Climate Smart 4th Graders also joined the
City’s Climate Smart Challenge and created a
team for Ordway so Otter families could work
together to help reduce GHG emissions on the
Island. In recognition of their effort to combat
climate change, Ordway’s Climate Smart
students were invited to accept the City’s 2023
Earth Day proclamation at the April 11, 2023
City Council meeting. Several students took
the podium to share their thoughts on climate
change.
Climate Smart Activities for Kids
The City’s Climate Smart Challenge has free lesson plans and activities to help students measure
carbon footprints, identify concrete climate solutions, and address climate anxiety. Lesson plans
with short videos and slide decks for Grades 4–6 and Grades 7–12 are available on the City
website. Climate Smart coloring sheets are also available for younger audiences.
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 29
Climate Smart Team Leaders
The Climate Smart Teams Program
provides a fun and impactful way to
learn about actions to both reduce
GHG emissions and prepare homes
and families for the impacts of climate
change. The Teams Program includes
a series of meeting agendas that
focus on climate and sustainability
solutions, emergency preparedness
and resilience with short videos,
guided discussion questions, and a
celebration to recognize the impact of
team members who complete actions
in the Climate Smart Challenge. From
October through December 2023,
three team leaders participated in
a special series highlighting climate
smart solutions for transportation, home
energy, and waste reduction.
Climate Smart Leaders
Three Islanders were recognized
as Climate Smart Leaders in 2023.
The Climate Smart Leaders program
celebrates individuals and groups
that are active in the Climate Smart
Challenge and taking the lead
on climate action in our community.
Leaders can be nominated by
themselves or others by completing a
short nomination form. Climate Smart
Leaders have:
• Earned at least 5,000 points in
the Climate Smart Challenge.
• Participated in the Challenge
Teams Program.
• Completed one or more of the
“Big Actions” in the Challenge.
• Taken other actions to lead on
climate action in our community.
Congratulations to the following
Climate Smart Leaders
recognized in 2023!
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 30
Climate Smart Community Outreach
City staff, volunteers, and contractors participated
in five community tabling events and provided nine
community presentations in 2023, reaching over
600 people in support of our CAP goals. The City
hosted a Climate Smart booth at the 2023 Earth
Day Expo with a hands-on game and fun stickers
for youth. City staff and CCAC volunteers also
helped support a Climate Smart Bainbridge booth
at the Farmer’s Market and the Senior Center’s
Senior Resource Fair. Thank you to everyone who
helped organize these events, and to community
members who stopped by to learn more!
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 31
APPENDIX: SUMMARY OF CAP ACTIONS
AND PROGRESS TO DATE
A total of 79 priority actions were identified in the 2020 Climate Action Plan. As of December 31,
2023, 17 of those priority actions were complete, 26 were in progress, and 36 were identified
for consideration and implementation in the future. For more information on specific actions and
proposed timing, please refer to Appendix A in the 2020 Climate Action Plan.
ACTION #DESCRIPTION 2023 STATUS UPDATE
GH
G
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2.A.1.a COBI will work with the CCAC to improve
the accuracy and site-specificity of data for
GHG emission categories that are currently
based on regional models (particularly
vehicles and air travel).
Complete: Completed
project to improve accuracy of
transportation-related data for
GHG inventory.
2.A.2.a COBI will complete the next GHG emissions
inventory by 2022 for the year 2021.
Complete the next GHG emissions inventory
for the year 2025 by 2026 and then
complete a GHG emissions inventory every
5 years thereafter.
Future Action
2.B.1.a COBI, working with the CCAC, will
approach academic institutions for assistance
to plan more rigorous analysis methods,
including ground-truthing of tree inventories.
Collaborations may include student
apprenticeships, student thesis research
opportunities, or collaborative research grant
proposals. Consider also joint studies with
Bainbridge Island Land Trust.
Future Action
EN
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G
Y
3.A.1.a All COBI projects (e.g., Police Station,
WWTP improvements) adopt requirements
to use high-performance retrofit
technologies where feasible (e.g., variable
frequency drives in HVAC systems, heat
recovery systems, and dedicated outdoor
air systems).
Future Action
21%
Complete
33%
In Progress
46%
Future Action
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 32
EN
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R
G
Y
3.A.1.b Work with PSE to: 1) raise awareness
about existing rebate and assistance
programs that will increase access to energy
conservation and efficiency programs,
focusing on low-income households and
nonprofit organizations; 2) explore creating
new incentive/rebate programs; and 3)
develop a local program to encourage
homeowners that have sufficient potential
to acquire customer-owned generation like
roof-top solar and small wind turbines.
In Progress: PSE incentives and
programs highlighted in Climate
Smart Challenge; Renewed
discussions with PSE, CCAC and
the UAC to collaborate with
PSE on efforts to reduce GHG
emissions and improve the safety
and reliability of electricity on
the Island.
3.A.2.a Use the Green Energy and Building Fund
to provide incentives to building owners
and residents to increase electrification
conversions and battery storage and to
assist in energy audits for residential home
projects, including affordable housing
(e.g., install energy conservation measures,
provide financial incentives for existing
building owners to transition from propane,
fuel oil, and wood stoves to all electric
buildings).
In Progress: Released a request
for qualifications to partner with
an organization to design and
implement a community heat
pump installation pilot program
in 2024; Invited two firms to
submit full proposals in early
2024.
3.B.1.a Work collaboratively with PSE, via the
PSE Franchise agreement update and
other mechanisms, to move towards a
100% carbon-free electrical supply,
preferably sooner than the Washington
State mandated goals.
In Progress: This is part of
the scope of work for the
ETIPP program and a topic of
discussion for the proposed PSE
memorandum of understanding
currently in review.
3.B.1.b Work with PSE and others to develop
incentive programs to increase installation of
renewable energy and passive photovoltaic
(PV) solar or other technologies on new and
existing buildings.
Future Action
3.B.1.c Adopt a policy that prohibits propane,
fuel oil, and wood stoves as the primary
energy source for all new municipal,
commercial, industrial, and residential
buildings and in renovations and additions
over a certain size.
Future Action
ACTION #DESCRIPTION 2023 STATUS UPDATE
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 33
EN
E
R
G
Y
3.B.1.d Develop incentives for existing commercial,
industrial, and residential buildings to
replace propane, fuel oil, and wood stoves
as their primary heating sources.
Future Action
3.B.2.a Develop and hold trainings/workshops
for Island and neighboring communities’
builders, contractors, architects, and
homeowners that can help Bainbridge
Island to implement the fuel-switch from
carbon-based to electrification of the
building stock.
Future Action
3.C.1.a Work with PSE to develop a local program
to encourage homeowners, businesses, and
other entities like BISD, BIMPRD, and BIFP to
acquire customer-owned generation like
roof-top solar and small wind turbines.
In Progress: As part of the
ETIPP program, community
stakeholders from public
agencies on the Island (and
PSE) participated in two site
visits to identify specific locations
recommended for future solar
installations.
3.C.1.b Research and develop microgrids for
community Bainbridge Disaster Hubs
(City Hall, Seniors Center, Bainbridge
Island School District (BISD), Island Wood)
in partnership with PSE and Bainbridge
Prepares.
In Progress: This is part of the
scope of work for the ETIPP
program with a public report
anticipated in early 2024.
3.C.2.a Work with partners (e.g., PSE) to
determine the feasibility of developing
large-scale neighborhood microgrids with
customer-based storage or utility-scale
energy storage, or a combined heat and
power biodigester sited adjacent to the
community pool.
Future Action
ACTION #DESCRIPTION 2023 STATUS UPDATE
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 34
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4.A.1.a Through the Sustainable Transportation
Planning Process and other means,
develop an ambitious plan to create
networks of pathways required to achieve
a substantial mode shift to biking and
walking, including separated or protected
biking and walking lanes.
Complete: Sustainable
Transportation Plan adopted
by Council in March 2022;
Implementation underway.
4.A.1.b Increase City staff time or hire a consultant t
o enhance the City’s capacity to identify
and apply for sources of funding (such as
federal grants for Safe Routes to Schools
nd public private partnerships for the
needed infrastructure).
Complete: The City’s first
Sustainable Transportation
Coordinator was hired in
September 2023 and is
working to identify and apply
for grant funding that supports
implementation of both the CAP
and the STP.
4.A.1.c Explicitly consider climate change mitigation
(e.g., greenhouse gas reductions) when
evaluating options as the City develops its
Sustainable Transportation plan.
Complete: Climate change
was a central tenet guiding
development of the STP, which
was adopted by Council in
March 2022.
4.A.2.a Require incorporation of non-motorized
transportation options into all new
development, e.g., by including sidewalks
or pedestrian trails linked to existing
and planned trail/sidewalk networks;
incorporating bicycle lanes and trails; etc.
Future Action
4.A.2.b Require all new development, and
improve existing connections between
developments, to accommodate non-
motorized and public transit transportation
options (including incorporation of bus
shelters and other amenities).
Future Action
4.A.3.a In consultation with Kitsap Transit, develop
a robust marketing/outreach/educational
program to inform Island residents and
those who traverse the Island from outside
about public transit options, including
park and rides (including, for example,
information for Island visitors on bus/transit
routes & options).
In Progress: The City provided
$100,000 to Kitsap Transit to
promote BI Ride 2023 with
remaining funds extended to
support additional marketing
efforts in 2024.
ACTION #DESCRIPTION 2023 STATUS UPDATE
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 35
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4.A.4.a Work with Bainbridge Island School District
on measures to discourage private-vehicle
drop-offs and pick-ups, encourage car-
pooling, biking and walking and promote
greater use of school buses.
In Progress: The City’s
Sustainable Transportation
Coordinator met with School
District staff in late 2023 to
discuss opportunities to partner on
multi-modal transportation options
for both students and staff.
4.B.1.a Transition COBI’s fleets to primarily electric
vehicles and using biofuels where electric
vehicles are not an option and encourage
other Bainbridge Island taxing districts to
also develop a plan.
In Progress: Received two
EVs for the City fleet in 2023,
increasing the total number of
EVs in the fleet to three, or 3%
of the eligible fleet; Completed
an assessment of EV options
and charging needs for the
City’s fleet with a proposed
cost and timeline to convert the
City’s fleet and install charging
infrastructure.
4.B.2.a Evaluate current code to see if need to
modify to increase the number of EV-charge
stations ready for all new development,
major renovations and that multifamily units
and commercial development include EV
charging infrastructure.
Complete: Adopted zoning
code updates in 2022 to
establish minimum requirements
for parking spaces with EV
supply equipment installed and
parking spaces provided with
sufficient electrical infrastructure
to allow for the future installation
of EV supply equipment
in certain types of new
development and expansion
projects.
4.B.2.b Install additional charging stations in
commercial centers, including Island Village,
Coppertop, Lynwood Center.
In Progress: Applied for grant
funding to add a public charger
at Lynwood Center in December
2023.
4.B.3.a Coordinate with Washington State Ferries,
PSE, and other entities as necessary to
evaluate the need for, and feasibility of,
establishing charging infrastructure on the
Island to service ferries.
In Progress: Part of large
stakeholder discussion for the
ETIPP program; Electrification
of the Bainbridge-Seattle ferry
and associated terminal is
anticipated in 2027.
ACTION #DESCRIPTION 2023 STATUS UPDATE
City of Bainbridge Island 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN PROGRESS REPORT | 36
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4.B.4.a Adopt a city-wide anti-idling ordinance
that includes an enforcement component
and work with the WSF and State Patrol to
reduce idling at the ferry parking lots.
Future Action
4.B.5.a Work with partners (e.g., Climate Action
Bainbridge and Puget Sound Clean Air
Agency) to provide public information on
benefits of reducing air travel.
In Progress: Included as an
action in the Climate Smart
Challenge.
4.B.5.b Work with service providers to help our
community develop and maintain the
digital infrastructure it needs to enable
more virtual meetings.
Future Action
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5.A.1.a Adopt Green Building Task Force
recommendations on green building
practices and standards for all new
municipal, commercial, industrial and
residential building and all renovations and
additions over a certain size
Future Action: Initial
recommendations from the Task
Force could not be implemented
due to State legislation.
5.A.1.b Require all new and renovated buildings
to apply the EcoAdapt Climate Change
Adaptation Certification Tool, or similar tool,
to identify and avoid climate risks as part of
the permitting process.
Future Action
5.A.2.a Develop training and outreach programs to
provide technical assistance to developers,
contractors, architects, landscape architects,
city employees, and homeowners on green
building that includes the cost/benefit to
occupants of green building, use of reused
and recycled materials, and the health
benefits from green buildings to occupants.
Future Action
5.A.2.b Work with the BISD, BIMPD, and BIFD
to ensure any new buildings they build
consider green building standards and
practices adopted by COBI.
Future Action
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5.B.1.a As recommended by the 2019 CCAC
Report on Sea Level Rise: 1) conduct a
systematic, high-resolution analysis of
exposure of City assets to sea level rise.
In Progress: USGS indicated
they would not be able to
participate in this project which
necessitated the City returning a
2022 grant from the Department
of Commerce for this work;
Finalized a consultant contract
to complete the re-scoped sea
level rise vulnerability and risk
assessment for completion in
late 2024.
5.B.1.b As recommended by the 2019 CCAC
Report on Sea Level Rise: 2) create a
prioritized list for addressing COBI assets
at high risk of sea level rise (e.g., roadways
that are expected in the coming decades to
be sufficiently flooded that they will not be
functional for motorized transit).
In Progress: Grant funds
will be used to identify public
infrastructure most at risk and
start developing adaptation
strategies to protect roads, water
pumps, sewage infrastructure
and more on the island in 2024.
5.B.1.c As recommended by the 2019 CCAC
Report on Sea Level Rise: 3) integrate sea
level rise analysis into all City planning
to identify and avoid or minimize risk to
planned infrastructure and development.
Future Action
5.B.2.a Conduct a high-resolution analysis of all
shoreline properties to inform landowners
of exposure to sea level rises, make this
information widely available for property
owners to use in decision-making, and
provide guidance on possible solutions and
regulatory requirements.
Future Action
5.B.2.b COBI integrates sea-level rise analysis into
all City permitting to help applicants identify
and avoid or minimize risk to existing
infrastructure and land uses and planned
infrastructure and development from sea
level rise or other climate impacts.
Future Action
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5.B.2.c COBI hosts community workshops on
climate impacts, how they might impact
buildings, and how to prepare buildings for
these impacts.
Future Action
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6.A.1.a Ensure that the City is using the most
appropriate, relevant and recent data and
information about natural resources, climate
change and other associated parameters
in decision-making. If data sources are
missing, identify how to obtain needed
information.
Future Action
6.A.1.b Develop and adopt a comprehensive
strategy for addressing invasive species
on City lands to reduce these significant
stressors on ecosystems. Comprehensive
strategy adopted with targets for eradication
and control. Mapping implemented.
Future Action
6.A.1.c Evaluate all COBI land acquisition and
development decisions for City lands or in
City review of private development using
the EcoAdapt Climate Change Adaptation
Certification Tool (or other similar tool) to
ensure decisions are climate informed.
In Progress: Staff training
planned for early 2024 using
a City staff-developed climate
lens.
6.A.2.a Work with COBI arborist and partnering
community groups, as appropriate, to create
a preferred list of tree and plant species
expected to be favored by climate change
projections for use in City planning and
restoration efforts. This list can also be used
to advise local landowners and be applied
to climate savvy development.
Complete: The City Arborist
developed an educational
document which is now posted
on the City website and will
be shared broadly with the
community in 2024.
6.A.3.a Conduct an assessment of stocking densities on
COBI owned lands and evaluate forest health
improvements and wildfire risk reduction.
Future Action
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6.A.3.b Ensure that COBI policies prioritize
wildfire risk reduction in proximity to
homes consistent with FireWise guidelines
and strengthen wildfire risk-reduction
design guidelines for Island construction
(residential and business) using approaches
such as reviewing new subdivision
standards for opportunities to integrate
wildfire risk reduction.
In Progress: The Bainbridge
Island Municipal Code was
updated in 2021 to allow
for certain wildfire mitigation
activities, including tree
removal and vegetation
maintenance without a permit
(in certain types of parcels).
Additional clarification on the
code amendments is pending
approval of the new Washington
State Building Code, which
includes elements related to
the wildland urban interface
(WUI). The WUI code adds
fire protection standards to all
structures based on proximity
to areas with “vegetative fuels”
that can contribute to wildfires
even if permits are not required.
The WUI code specifies
ignition-resistant construction
requirements for buildings,
decks, detached structures and
other components to protect
against fire ignition from embers.
The Bainbridge Island Fire
Department released a
summary of how FireWise
best practices related to current
City codes as documented
on pages 27–29 of the 2022
Bainbridge Island Community
Wildfire Protection Plan.
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6.B.1.a Incentivize and maximize opportunities for
incorporating water conservation features
in Green Design and Building Codes (see
Buildings Section Goal A).
Future Action: Note that all
Housing Design Demonstration
Projects (HDDP) would have to
meet a minimum green building
certification, which generally
includes water conservation
requirements. The Innovative Site
design checklist for HDDP projects
also has water conversation
measures.
6.B.1.b Continue a robust surface water monitoring
program that can identify trends in
streamflow and water quality to inform
adaptive management to protect stream
health and integrate into monitoring
climate change-sensitive parameters as
appropriate.
In Progress: Work is performed
annually.
6.B.2.a Complete and implement COBI’s
Groundwater Management Plan, including
incorporation of expected changes to
groundwater inputs and outputs under
climate change.
In Progress: Updates available
for discussion with the City
Council in Q1 2024.
6.C.1.a Ensure that planning for sea level rise on the
timeframe relevant to any proposed action’s
lifetime impact is explicitly incorporated into
the Shoreline Management Plan, including
incorporating capacity for inundation and
change to natural shoreline features, such as
planting for shifting vegetative communities,
infrastructure movement or abandonment to
adapt to habitat loss at shoreline.
Future Action
6.D.1.a Work collaboratively with individual farmers
and community groups including Friends
of the Farms, Master Gardeners, and
Kitsap Conservation District to identify and
promote agricultural policies that increase
carbon storage (e.g., soil sequestration) and
hydrologic integrity, and reduce emissions
including permaculture and reduced energy
inputs (e.g., fertilizer, fossil fuels).
Future Action
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6.D.2.a Work collaboratively with Kitsap
Conservation District to offer technical
resources to livestock owners for manure
management. Consider development of
a memorandum of understanding and
funding to support additional manure
management efforts.
Future Action
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7.A.1.a Centralize purchasing within COBI to
increase consistent adherence to COBI’s
sustainable procurement policy.
Future Action
7.A.2.a Adopt an ordinance to reduce the use
of single-use plastic food service ware,
including utensils and take-out containers,
by all Island food service establishments.
Complete: Council adopted
Ordinance 2021-18 in June
2021 and Ordinance No.
2021-34 in November 2021.
7.A.3.a Educate the community about ways
to reduce food waste and promote
opportunities for viable food to get to
those who need it, including food banks
and neighborhood giving.
In Progress: Information
included in the Climate Smart
Challenge.
7.B.1.a Work with Bainbridge Disposal to offer
curbside compost pickup for all commercial
facilities as a weekly service.
Future Action
7.B.1.b Require that all commercial entities
participate in the green waste program
once established and participate in
recycling.
Future Action
7.B.2.a Require, and where appropriate provide
incentives for, the reduction, collection and
diversion of construction and demolition
waste. Seek specific recommendation from
the City’s Green Building Task Force on
this action.
Future Action
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7.C.1.a Evaluate and support opportunities to
better accommodate on-Island or
more local processing of green waste
(e.g., through amendments to municipal
code and allowed uses).
Future Action
7.D.1.a Apply the EcoAdapt Climate Change
Adaptation Certification Tool to any new
waste-related infrastructure projects.
Future Action (using the City’s
Climate Lens Tool developed in
2023).
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8.A.1.a Develop a dedicated climate change
webpage on the City’s website including
links to climate mitigation/adaptation
resources on the CCAC website and make
the CAP widely available in on-line and in
print formats (copies at the library along
with GHG inventory, Sea Level Rise analysis
and Bainbridge Island Climate Impact
Assessment that will be updated periodically
by members of the CCAC).
Complete:
Visit www.bainbridgewa.gov/
ClimateAction; Print copies have
also been made available at the
library and Senior Center and
are available for download from
the City website.
8.A.1.b Consult with the Equity Task Force to ensure
outreach efforts and education materials
are designed and implemented to reach all
segments of the Bainbridge community.
In Progress: Transitioned
focus for action to work with
the City’s Equity & Inclusion
Manager hired in 2023; Climate
Manager partnered with
Equity & Inclusion Manager
to present climate and racial
equity lens for use in community
engagement efforts associated
with the Steering Committee
for the Comprehensive Plan
and the Winslow Subarea Plan
periodic updates in 2023;
Utilized interpreter for business
outreach event and translated
new education and outreach
materials.
8.A.2.a Include a climate change tip of the [month]
as a regular feature in the City Manager’s
report and on social media.
Complete (and ongoing):
Regular tips are posted in the
City Manager's Report, on
social media, and in COBI
Connects.
8.B.1.a Declare a climate emergency. Complete: Resolution
No. 2020-05 was adopted by
City Council in 2020.
8.A.1.b Be a regional leader in recognizing the
important role that municipal governments
can play in taking action to respond to
climate change.
In Progress: The City is a
member of the Puget Sound
Climate Preparedness
Collaborative and ICLEI—Local
Governments for Sustainability.
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8.B.1.c Work cooperatively with other jurisdictions
in Kitsap and King Counties (e.g., Poulsbo,
Silverdale, Kingston, Bremerton, Seattle)
and throughout Puget Sound to find
regional solutions including mitigation
and adaptation actions that would benefit
from economies of scale or the sharing of
lessons learned.
In Progress: The City is a
member of the Puget Sound
Climate Preparedness
Collaborative and the Urban
Sustainability Directors Network
(USDN); Staff participates in
quarterly calls with other USDN
members from WA, OR, and
Western Canada.
8.B.2.a Host workshops with hands-on
demonstrations for community members
to learn how to take specific actions (e.g.,
building a rain barrel, dehydrate food as
part of emergency preparedness, build
and use compost bin, use an electric bike,
construct a rain garden, assemble an
emergency kit, install less resource intensive
landscaping).
In Progress (and ongoing):
Held three community
workshops/educational events
in 2023 regarding electric
vehicles/bikes, low carbon food
options, and PSE programs to
reduce energy use.
8.B.2.b Host events for community project(s) to
bring people together to work towards
mitigation and adaptation (e.g., building a
community rain garden, working on a trail,
making signs for bike/pedestrian routes,
pulling ivy, planting climate resilient plants,
and constructing community pea patch).
In Progress (and ongoing):
Held three community
workshops/educational events
in 2023 regarding electric
vehicles/bikes, low carbon food
options, and PSE programs to
reduce energy use.
8.C.1.a In coordination with the COBI attorney,
review existing laws, regulations and
policies and revise as needed by asking the
following sorts of questions.
· Are current City laws adequate to
require, or at least encourage, GHG
emission reductions from City regulated
or endorsed activities as well as from
individual activities?
· Do they provide sufficient authority/
flexibility to respond to impacts and
emergencies?
· Are recommended mitigations/
adaptations actions allowed?
In Progress: First code updates
adopted in 2022 for EV parking
infrastructure requirements.
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8.C.1.b Hire a COBI Climate Mitigation/
Adaptation Officer to coordinate activities
between and among the various city offices,
inspect for compliance with climate related
code compliance, and serve as a City staff
liaison with the CCAC.
Complete: Climate Officer
(now Manager) started in
October 2021.
8.C.1.c Include Climate Change related
expenditures in the City budget for
education, code compliance, mitigation
and adaptation action items identified in
he CAP.
Complete: $100,000 annual
budget for CAP implementation
adopted as part of 2023–24
General Fund budget.
8.C.2.a Work with Bainbridge Prepares, the
Bainbridge Island Fire Department, and
others, to establish community centers
for recharging generators, cell phones
during outages, and providing emergency
food/water.
In Progress: Initial analysis
of solar and battery energy
storage options completed at
six community disaster hubs in
2022; Specifications for adding
solar at the Senior Center
drafted in 2023; Specifications
for adding solar plus battery
storage at Hyla Middle School
anticipated for development
in 2024.
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9.A.1.a Confirm COBI staff person to liaise with the
CCAC until a dedicated Climate Change
Mitigation/Adaptation Officer is hired.
See Section 8, Action 8.C.1.b.
Complete
9.A.1.b Identify a COBI staff person in each
department who will provide information
to the City staff liaison (Climate Change
Officer) identified in Action 9.A.1.a. This
person will provide department-specific
information on timelines for completing
actions and report on progress on CAP
actions led by that department.
Complete: Internal CAP
implementation team meets
approximately once a quarter.
9.B.1.a Consider and minimize the potential for
unintended and/or unequitable impacts
from each action prior to implementation.
In Progress: Referenced the
City’s draft racial equity lens for
two CAP-related projects during
the conceptualization stage
in 2023.
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9.C.1.a Produce a CAP progress report every year
that includes a review of actions undertaken
during the year and additional actions
needed (including those currently listed
as “other” rather than “priority” actions)
to meet the CAP goals for reducing GHG
emissions and preparing the Island for
climate impacts.
Complete: Provided quarterly
updates to the City Manager for
sharing with City Council and
released the 2023 CAP progress
report in early 2024.
9.C.1.b Update the GHG emissions inventory every
three to five years.
Future Action: The next
community inventory is
tentatively planned for 2024
using 2023 data.
9.C.1.c Update the CAP every five years.Future Action: The next update
to the CAP is tentatively planned
for 2025.
9.C.1.d Prior to the five-year CAP update, evaluate
the effectiveness of implemented actions in
terms of progress towards goals and targets,
in order to inform adaptive management.
Consider creating a dashboard of key
metrics as a tool for the evaluation and
associated communications.
Future Action
9.D.1.a Develop cost estimates for the highest
priority CAP actions and staffing
requirements and list potential funding
sources (in year 1).
Complete: Developed for
2022–2024 workplan items.
9.D.1.b Include a description in the City Manager’s
proposed budget of existing and proposed
projects that relate to CAP strategies
and actions.
Complete: Developed for
2023–24 budget.