SAUGUS — As the region has seen in recent weeks, climate change is continuing to have an impact on the North Shore ― but the town has a plan.
To that end, Saugus has received a $74,500 grant for its climate adaptation and resilience plan; the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Program grant was awarded through the Baker-Polito administration.
Christopher Reilly, the town’s director of planning and economic development, said he was ecstatic when he found out the town had received the funding.
“Any time you can get that level of resources in a grant, it’s highly beneficial for the town,” said Reilly. “It’s a highly-competitive grant.”
A letter to the town from Gov. Charlie Baker’s office commended the town’s commitment to implementing priority climate change adaptation actions. It also stated that the governor’s office looks forward to partnering with Saugus on this important project.
Citing the size of the grant, Reilly said it’s clear that the Baker-Polito administration recognizes that combating climate change is an important issue in Saugus.
“That shows you that it’s a major priority, a policy priority,” said Reilly. “The understanding is there that the risk has evolved and that we need to be better prepared. The best way to do that obvious(ly) is planning.
“You want to spend whatever resources you have on projects that make sense. From a cost-effectiveness standpoint, from a practical standpoint, just being better prepared for hazards, that’s always a good planning approach to make sure you get the most bang for your buck.”
The town now needs to figure out the best way to use the grant funding. Reilly said it is too soon to say exactly which projects will come out of the funding, as it is an assessment grant.
“Right now, it’s sort of assessing what our biggest priorities or needs are and going from there,” he said.
