Longmont City Council has made significant strides in addressing the challenges posed by extreme heat, as highlighted in their recent meeting on April 8, 2025. The council approved the completion of a comprehensive Heat Action Plan, a crucial step in implementing recommendations from the city’s Climate Action Report aimed at enhancing public health in a warming climate.

The Heat Action Plan consolidates various initiatives, including climate risk mapping, community-driven cooling solutions, and health programs, to tackle the increasing risks associated with extreme heat. The plan identifies critical gaps and outlines intervention strategies that align with existing city goals, emphasizing public health benefits and environmental co-benefits.

Key recommendations from the plan include establishing specific goals and metrics for heat management, integrating these into emergency planning efforts, and adapting existing protocols for extreme cold to address extreme heat. The council is also considering new code amendments focused on heat safety, particularly for vulnerable populations such as outdoor workers.

In addition to policy changes, the city is actively seeking grants to fund these initiatives and plans to launch an educational campaign to raise awareness about heat-related health risks. This campaign will inform residents about the signs of heat illness and available resources, particularly targeting older households that may lack cooling systems.

As Longmont prepares for an increase in heat days due to climate change, these proactive measures aim to safeguard the community's health and well-being. The council will continue to refine these strategies and engage with the public for further input and direction.