ESAP Group Discussion – Education Hill

On July 4, 2025, twelve community members from Redmond’s Education Hill neighborhood met to discuss and complete the City’s Environmental Sustainability Action Plan (ESAP) questionnaire. The session focused on local climate resilience, energy use, transportation, waste, and natural resource protection.

Participants identified wildfire smoke, heatwaves, and flooding as top climate risks and emphasized the need for clean air and cooling shelters, backup power, and multilingual emergency communication. They supported public education, preparedness training, and improved accessibility for vulnerable residents.

In energy discussions, residents strongly backed electrification and home efficiency upgrades but cited high upfront costs as barriers. They recommended expanded rebates, low-interest loans, and technical assistance.

Transportation feedback highlighted reliance on personal vehicles but growing interest in sustainable options, with calls for safer bike infrastructure, more reliable transit, and additional EV charging.

Waste reduction received strong support, including expanding composting and promoting reusable containers. Participants urged better outreach and education on waste programs.

Finally, residents valued Redmond’s trees, green spaces, and water resources, advocating for tree-planting programs, native landscaping, and equitable park access. The group reflected Redmond’s cultural diversity and commitment to a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable community.