Sections
This section provides a brief overview of the "Getting Started" chapter and accompanying resources.
Form a planning team that will remain closely engaged with the process. Evaluate whether any important perspectives that may be missing and whether additional involvement is critical before moving forward.
Meaningful community participation is essential for equitable public planning. Particular emphasis should be placed on the experience, knowledge and expertise of frontline communities in understanding strengths, values, and vulnerabilities; shaping goals and strategies; and determining priorities for building resilience.
As stated in the principles of Equity in Climate Resilience, the practitioner should understand the historical legacies of racism, colonization, and socioeconomic differentiation that shaped the community.
Comprehensive plans and hazard mitigation plans are common in most communities and can be used in lieu of vulnerability assessments in some cases. Utilizing and improving such plans saves costs and minimizes duplication. Practitioners should document previous plans and initiatives.
During goal-setting, be sure to address the equitability of desired outcomes. What social equity goals need to be adopted as part of the resilience planning effort to achieve the long-term community vision?
Although internal meetings have been held with the full planning team, the kickoff meeting is meant to be held with the larger community. This meeting will provide a broad overview of the project plan, timeline, and project goals. This is also an opportunity to introduce the team working on the project to community members.
