Guest Opinion | District 3 Candidate Brandon Lamar: The Urgent Need for Climate-Resilient Urban Planning

In the aftermath of the days leading up to Hurricane Hilary’s arrival in Pasadena, one truth has become undeniably clear: the importance of investing in climate resiliency has never been greater. As the storm clouds gathered and uncertainty hung heavy in the air, the significance of proactive urban planning to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events has been thrust into the spotlight. Our city cannot afford to wait any longer; we must take immediate action to safeguard our future against events that were once considered statistically unlikely.

As I step forward as a candidate for District 3, I recognize the profound responsibility that lies in shaping our city’s response to the changing climate. Hurricane Hilary and a 5.1 magnitude Earthquake have highlighted the urgency of this task, a responsibility I am fully committed to embracing. By making climate justice and resiliency a cornerstone of my platform, I aim to ensure that our community is well-prepared to navigate the challenges that lie ahead.

Urban planning, once guided by historical data and assumptions of predictability, must now pivot towards an adaptive approach. The era of relying on the past to predict the future has come to an end, as Hurricane Hilary and the 5.1 magnitude Earthquake showed us that unprecedented events can and do occur. To address this new reality, we must incorporate cutting-edge climate science, data-driven modeling, and expert analysis into our planning efforts.

The heart of our resiliency lies in the strength of our urban infrastructure. We must reimagine our buildings, utilities, and transportation systems to withstand the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. Retrofitting existing structures and investing in modern, sustainable designs for new construction will serve as a solid foundation for our climate resiliency strategy.

However, the responsibility for climate resiliency does not rest solely on the shoulders of government. The private sector plays a crucial role in this effort. Encouraging businesses to adopt environmentally friendly practices and integrate resiliency measures into their operations will contribute to a more robust and adaptable local economy.

In the midst of this challenge, we must also take a moment to express our gratitude to the unsung heroes who continue to stand strong while preparing for Hurricane Hilary: the Pasadena city employees and first responders. Their diligent and tireless efforts to prepare Pasadena for the storm’s arrival did not go unnoticed. Their dedication serves as a reminder of the strength of our community and the importance of unity in the face of adversity and uncertainty.

In conclusion, Hurricane Hilary has given us a sobering glimpse into the future we must confront and prepare for. As your next representative for District 3, I am committed to working with groups like the Pasadena 100 Coalition and the Climate and Environmental Leader Accountability (CELA) Coalition and championing the cause of climate justice and resiliency. Let us embark on this journey together, bolstering our city’s defenses, and ensuring that our homes, families, and businesses are equipped to withstand the challenges of a changing climate. The time for action is now, and I pledge to make this mission a priority as your next representative. Together, we can shape a future that is not only stronger but more adaptable, ensuring that Pasadena remains a beacon of resilience for generations to come.

Brandon D. Lamar is a candidate for the District 3 Pasadena City Council seat.