OneCape 2019: Message from the Executive Director

On July 29 and 30, we welcomed more than three hundred people, including local, state, and national leaders, elected officials, board members, representatives from environmental organizations and the business community, and concerned citizens, to the Wequassett Resort in Harwich for the sixth annual OneCape summit.

Over the course of the two-day event, the Commission’s mission to balance environmental protection with economic progress was reflected in plenary sessions, focused discussions, and hands-on learning experiences designed around region-wide efforts to enhance and protect our natural, built, and community systems. Experts and Commission staff led sessions focused on coastal resiliency, climate change, water quality, and housing. Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy, Social Finance Managing Director Navjeet Bal, and WBZ-TV Chief Meteorologist Eric Fisher were just some of this year’s notable speakers.

We demonstrated our new Cape Cod Coastal Planner, a communication and decision-support tool created by Cape Cod Commission staff that incorporates data on climate change hazards, adaptation strategies, and implications for local infrastructure and ecosystems. And we had the privilege of honoring former Orleans selectman Alan McClennen with this year’s OneCape award.

We are pleased that so many leaders from Cape Cod and beyond are dedicated to strengthening our region and protecting our environment. We look forwarding to working with you all to secure a resilient future for Cape Cod.