Submitted by Faith Van De Putte and Chuenchom Greacen.

Join fellow Lopezians on Feb. 21 from 6-8 p.m. at the Lopez Center for the Community and Arts for the Comprehensive Plan Outreach for Meaningful Public Action & Sustainable Solutions, or COMPASS. San Juan County is updating its Comprehensive Plan, a long-term vision for the islands’ future, and this time around, a crucial new element is being added: climate resiliency.

COMPASS is an interactive and informative exercise designed to empower San Juan County residents to address the challenges of climate change. It provides a platform for conversation, education, engagement and collective action. The aim is to generate actionable insights tailored to the islands’ unique community and environment.

Similar events will also be held on Shaw, Orcas and San Juan islands. These interactive sessions offer residents an opportunity to learn about projected climate impacts and sources of our county’s greenhouse gas emissions. Participants will also share personal observations of environmental changes and ideas on what we can do as a County to mitigate impacts and build community resilience.

Why should you attend? We’ve worked hard to design the process to be a fun and rewarding chance to engage with your fellow islanders. The input gathered will be directly submitted to the County Planning Commission and Council, shaping the climate element of the Comprehensive Plan and the accompanying Climate Action Plan. This ensures community perspectives are integrated into local climate policies.

COMPASS is more than just talk; it’s a bridge between community insights and policy development. The project is a collaborative effort led by Faith Van De Putte and Chom Greacen, in partnership with the Madrona Institute, Friends of the San Juans and the family resource centers on San Juan, Orcas and Lopez. Funding is provided by a Department of Commerce grant.

Visit www.madrona.org/compass to learn more.

Refreshments and child care will be provided. Contact 650-538-6538 in advance to arrange child care.

Don’t miss this chance to shape your community’s future. Your voice matters.