Agenda Date: 05/26/2026
Subject:
Title
Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment
Body
From:
James L. Becklenberg, City Manager
Prepared by:
Brent Soderlin, Director of Public Works & Utilities
Laura Rosenbaum, Sustainability Coordinator
Presentations:
Austin Guimond, Water Analyst, The Brendle Group
Shelby Sommer, Senior Director of Planning & Engagement, The Brendle Group
PURPOSE:
In progress since February 2026, the City of Littleton launched a Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (CRVA). The CRVA will help the city better understand how changing weather patterns could affect the community now and in the future. The study session will show a preview of the analysis methodology, project tasks, and community engagement approach. Furthermore, it will provide a deeper understanding of the CRVA process and the context behind future recommendations.
LONG-TERM OUTCOME(S) SERVED:
Sustainable Community with Natural Beauty; Safe Community
DISCUSSION:
Littleton faces a range of climate-related risks, including extreme heat, wildfire, flooding, drought, severe storms, and extreme wind/tornadoes. Most of these identified risks are rated moderate to high and expected to worsen due to climate change. Key vulnerabilities include an aging population, people with disabilities, and lower-income residents, who face greater health, evacuation, and recovery challenges. Infrastructure risks are significant, especially to water supply (largely controlled externally), utilities, transportation, and aging stormwater systems. Extreme heat and drought are rising fastest, with heat waves projected to increase sharply and long-term water shortages likely. Existing City and regional plans provide relevant data and strategies, but gaps remain, particularly a coordinated, city-wide response plan for hazards like extreme heat. A summary of data, resources, policies, and plans has been attached to this memo for further reference.
This project will identify which community facil...
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