Protect Takoma

From Climate Change.

I've spent a lot of time on my own learning about climate change, was an intern at Citizens Climate Lobby, and began to see Earth becoming as harsh an environment for life as Mars or the Moon while participating in research for MMAARS and the Human Space Program.

I am grateful for what I've learned

more recently about what affects Takoma Park specifically from the various committees including:

• Climate Action Coffee

• Friends of Dorothy's Woods

• Takoma Stormwater Solutions

• Pollinators

• Community Food Forest

As well as webinars presented by county representatives.

I don't pretend to have all the answers. Some of the incumbents have worked on these issues for years. I come to the table with an open mind and vow to respect the information provided by residents, the city staff, and outside sources.

That being said, I was particularly interested in the Somerset SIP (Shared Infrastructure Project) which found a way to tackle stormwater at its source, on private property, rather than waiting until it hit the streets and drains. About a year or so ago I'd suggested that to a councilmember, not knowing about Somerset, so I guess I was already aligned with a new approach. I'd like to look into that more.

Many people want or have ADU's in their basements and they become uninhabitable and downright dangerous with floodwater and mold. We need to protect residents and their tenants from such exposure.

It's also great to connect across borders to Somerset and other places, like Forested in Bowie which specializes in forest agriculture. and follow their lead. While Takoma Park is unique in many ways, it's always good to learn best practices from others.

Connect Takoma: When we connect, we care.