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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013-09-16 PACKET 03.c.City of Woodbury Environmental Commission Events and Initiatives Joint Commission Meeting Sept. 16, 2013 Commission Projects Minnesota GreenStep Cities Shortly after the 2012 joint environmental commission meeting, the EAC proposed to City Council that Woodbury join the Minnesota GreenStep Cities program. In November 2012, Woodbury joined the program and was recognized as a Step 3 City at the League of Minnesota Cities Conference in June 2013. The Commission utilized the GreenStep program as its work plan for 2013. Specific best practices within the program were chosen to be emphasized and commissioners were divided into subgroups based upon their interest. Commissioners are currently working within the following subgroups: Complete Streets Environmental Purchasing Waste Reduction and Recycling The Commission is also pursuing the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Eagle Valley Golf Course. Bike and Pedestrian Survey (Complete Streets) — "Complete Streets" are designed and operated to enable safe access for all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and transit riders of all ages and abilities." The Woodbury EAC subgroup is working on identifying and prioritizing complete streets gaps that create barriers to walking and biking. Community input forms the foundation of our project. To gather community input, the subgroup conducted an on -line survey in May 2013 gathering almost 500 responses of which 120 potential volunteers shared their e -mail voicing an interest in helping. In addition, community volunteers are being organized to hold Woodbury's first pedestrian /bicyclist traffic count in mid - September. Commission Sponsored Events • Woodbury Community Expo April 6 — The Commission hosted a booth at this annual event. The booth featured a new game designed by the commissioners focusing on waste reduction and recycling. The primary purpose was to educate the public regarding disposal practices. Participants were asked to sort random items into one of five bins labeled Recycling, Hazardous Waste, Compostable, Reusable, or Pills /Unused Medication. Based on the number of items that were correctly placed, participants could win a prize. • Curbside Recycling Event May 13 -16 —The Commission works with licensed haulers to provide a curbside recycling service, targeting appliances, tires and scrap metal. Haulers agree to offer a one- time reduced fee for this event. • Tamarack Swamp Tour July 16 —This was the second year that the city and commission hosted this annual event. The event was previously organized by the Ramsey- Washington Metro Watershed District. Tour guides led people through the swamp to educate them on the ecology and plants of the area. Other Commission Activities • Green Times Newsletter — The Green Times is published three times a year and focuses on topics related to sustainability. • Environmental Excellence Awards August/September — This is an annual awards program recognizing businesses, organizations, and individuals that are making Woodbury a more sustainable community. Award categories include: Green building, energy efficiency and conservation, green remodeling, Use of renewable or alternative energy, waste reduction and recycling, environmental education, water conservation, innovative stormwater management practices, sustainable business practices, and youth leadership. The Commission reviews the entries and presentation of the awards is made during a City Council meeting. Other City Projects • Regional Indicators Project - Woodbury was one of twenty cities to participate in the Urban Land Institute's Regional Indicators Initiative. The program focuses on community metrics related to energy, waste, and travel. The program facilitators are currently working to expand the project to 40 cities.