The American Flood Coalition (AFC) is a nonpartisan coalition of cities, elected officials, civic groups, military leaders, and businesses that have come together to advocate for national solutions to sea level rise and flooding. The coalition formed based on the principle that protecting communities vulnerable to flooding and sea level rise is a national issue that must be met with national solutions. The AFC proactively addresses the threat of flooding by advocating for smarter planning and investments that protect our nation’s residents, economy, and military installations. As of September 2018, at least 23 coastal municipalities in Florida have joined the coalition.

Staff recommends that Boynton Beach consider joining the coalition because membership will provide the following benefits to the City:

• Advocacy for federal funding and national solutions to sea level rise as part of a strong national nonpartisan group with D.C. presence and resources
• A forum for best practices and support in developing local and state-level responses to sea level rise flooding and access to a national network of members
• A platform and tools to communicate with residents on sea level rise challenges and solutions

The City is revising its Climate Action Plan to include greater focus on climate adaptation and resilience initiatives. Membership in the American Flood Coalition will enhance the City’s resilience planning and implementation by exposing us to best practices in addressing challenges of flooding and sea level rise. It will assist in community engagement programs by providing communication tools, and will connect us to potential future funding opportunities. There are no costs or legal obligations associated with joining the AFC and members are free to withdraw at any point.

There is no impact to the City’s budget. 

Not adopt the proposed resolution.

Joining the American Flood Coalition will support the City’s ability to plan and implement initiatives in the Climate Action Plan that address challenges of sea level rise and flooding.