2014-2015 Work Plan

As outlined in City Code, the primary objective of the Environmental Policy Board is to review, consider, initiate and recommend to the City Council such policies, plans or projects which will enhance and preserve the natural environment of the City. The Board’s scope shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, matters of the preservation of the community forest, water quality, wetland preservation, ground water protection, control of soil erosion and air, noise and light pollution. The Environmental Policy Board shall prepare an annual work plan subject to the approval of the City Council.

Before discussing potential topics for the next Work Plan, Staff wanted to review some of the highlights/accomplishments of the Board from the past year:

• Assisted with coordination and planning of the 2013 Environmental Expo.
• Established various Subcommittees to focus on the Environmental Expo, Tree Sale, and Community Awareness and Outreach
• Assisted with revamping the Tree Sale to have the pick-up occur at a local business, making it more convenient for residents and introducing potential new customers to the business.
• Developed a Community Stewardship recognition program.
• Researched, developed guiding principles, and recommended participation in the Minnesota GreenStep Cities program (recommendation was not upheld).
• Continued assistance with developing articles for the Focus on Environment column in the newsletter.
• Reviewed and recommended approval of an Alternative Energy Systems ordinance (ordinance was adopted).
• Reviewed topsoil requirement and provided recommendation to accept new MnDOT specification (spec in City Code no longer exists in MnDOT's Construction Specification Book) as an equal until City Code is amended and recommended developing a menu of options for water conservation rather than just topsoil.
• Began review of individual zoning district bulk standards to identify potential revisions/amendments.

The purpose of this case is to develop a list of topics for potential inclusion in the next Work Plan.  Staff would encourage carrying forward the inventory of street trees item as this would assist with more accurate budgeting and scheduling efficiencies.  Staff would also encourage a greater emphasis be placed on educational outreach geared toward the general public.  This could include information on topics such as wetlands (what can/cannot be done within them), shoreline protections (e.g. maintaining natural, deep rooted vegetation to help protect against bank erosion), water conservation, and possibly backyard composting.  This could be accomplished through the Focus on Environment column, website and QCTV.  This would likely also result in more visibility of the Board and its mission.

The Board should be prepared to discuss what topics it wishes to address in the next work plan. Emphasis should be given to identifying a realistic number of items that could be accomplished over twelve (12) meetings. Once the draft Work Plan has been established, Staff will schedule it for review and consideration at an upcoming City Council Work Session. Board members are strongly encouraged to attend and participate in the City Council Work Session discussion.

Based on discussion.