AgdaPkt 2015-08-24 Joint SA and PAF

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ATTACHMENT 1 August 24, 2015 Honorable Susan I. Etezadi, Judge of the Superior Court c/o Charlene Kresevich Hall of Justice 400 County Center, 2nd Floor Redwood City, CA 94063-1655 RE: Grand Jury Report “Flooding Ahead: Planning for Sea Level Rise” Dear Judge Etezadi: On behalf of the City Council of the City of Redwood City, I would like to thank you for the opportunity to respond to the Grand Jury Report dated June 4, 2015, regarding the impacts of sea level rise on the County and the local jurisdictions and special agencies within the County. The following response to the Grand Jury Report was reviewed and approved by the City Council at its meeting on August 24, 2015. Analysis of the Report’s Findings and Recommendations Findings: The City has reviewed the twelve (12) findings in the Report and agrees with findings F2, F3, F6, F8, F10, F11 and F12. The City disagrees partially with findings F1, F4, F5, F7 and F9. F1. SMC is at severe risk for flooding due to the gradual rise in sea level, projected at up to 65 inches (167 centimeters) by the year 2100. Catastrophic SLR of nearly 15 feet is a possibility this century. Partially Disagree: The City agrees that significant risk due to sea level rise does exist. However, the data quoted by the Grand Jury has not been independently studied or verified by the City. F2. SLR is a threat countywide, including the upland areas. All residents depend on public infrastructure, especially wastewater treatment plants. Also, a significant portion of the countywide property tax base is within the area threatened by SLR. Agree F3. Although many local officials are now familiar with and concerned about the threat of SLR, there is inadequate public awareness of SLR's potential impacts on this county. Agree 6.1.I. - Page 4