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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017 Sustainability Agendas & Minutes • a ELGIN Sustainability Commission Agenda •Tuesday,January 10, 2017 • 6:15 PM Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex, City Hall Second Floor South Conference Room 150 Dexter Ct., Elgin, IL 60120 A. Call to order(chairperson) B. Roll Call (staff liaison) C. Approval of previous meeting's minutes D. Discussion Items E. Old Business 1. Partners for Places grant proposal &Community Gardens Continued discussion on community gardens projects in Elgin&meeting grant requirements. 2. Elgin Green Groups 350 letter of support Discuss any additional information found in commission research in letter of support for a carbon fee to address climate change and whether or not to move forward with letter 3. Sustainability Action Plan Update Discuss 5-year update on plan progress and current initiatives, make any adjustments and plan focus for 2017 F. Commissioner comments/announcements 1. "Bikes vs. Cars"film showing reminder 2. Sustainability Honor Roll votes in February G. Adjourn The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)of 1990.Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend — this meeting and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,or who have questions -- regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-6076,or TTY/TDD(847)931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. r ,..„ ELGIN Sustainability Commission Minutes • Tuesday,January 10, 2017 • 6:15 PM Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex, City Hall Second Floor South Conference Room 150 Dexter Ct., Elgin, IL 60120 A. Call to order(chairperson) B. Roll Call (staff liaison) Chairperson Knoerr and Commissioners Aagesen, Alvarez, Fitton, Hajek, Keare, Masterson and Segel present. C. Approval of previous meeting's minutes December 2016 minutes were approved. D. Discussion Items E. Old Business 1. Partners for Places grant proposal &Community Gardens Continued discussion on community gardens projects in Elgin& meeting grant requirements. Commissioner Fitton suggested that ECC could be a good fit to run the operation and it would be worth asking them. It could provide additional job training and enhance their culinary program. Commissioner Aagesen suggested that the Food Market Institute (FMI) could provide some industry trends. Aldi is actually looking at MetroFarms as a national supplier. Liaison will work on tours. Gotham Greens could be another option to tour. Growing Home in Chicago has a strong educational component. Perhaps City Planner Dave Waden could offer insight to planning on land. We need to inquire first if it is legal to do such this type of food production or if this scale would fall into agricultural zoning. It would be indoor, but still food production. Liaison will gather information on this project for Commissioner Alvarez and he can speak with Dave Waden. 2. Elgin Green Groups 350 letter of support Discuss any additional information found in commission research in letter of support for a carbon fee to address climate change and whether or not to move forward with letter Commissioner Aagesen said Washington had tried to pass a carbon fee legislation through their green groups and it did not pass, but there is good information on their progress. Elgin Green Groups 350 is helping make people aware of the amount of carbon going into the atmosphere. Corporations should have to think about the amount of pollution they are putting into the air. China is already working to introduce renewable energy. The commission agreed that the letter is a good cause, but the logistics behind the operation of such a fee and dividend aren't clear and the general public may not be ready. Education may need to reach more people first. Commissioner Hajek suggested tabling the letter for carbon fee indefinitely and keep an open mind. Liaison will reach out to Sandy Kaptain to send any updates the Elgin Green Groups 350 receives on the efforts. 3. Sustainability Action Plan Update "'" Discuss 5-year update on plan progress and current initiatives, make any adjustments and plan focus for 2017 Chairperson Knoerr suggested garden ordinances do not exist and its important we get that worked into our municipal code this year. People should be able to plant a garden in their front yard. Commissioner Alvarez said the zoning ordinance has a permitted use. An amendment would be needed to allow for such. Commissioner Aagesen suggested opening up the question on Facebook asking for public recommendations on what needs to be adjusted in our code to allow for more sustainable practices at the home and community level. "For example,there's been several issues discussed by the commission over the past few years...bees, gardens, plastic bag ordinances. What would you like to see happen?" The commission will continue to review progress report and make recommendations. F. Commissioner comments/announcements 1. "Bikes vs. Cars" film showing reminder 2. Sustainability Honor Roll votes in February G. Adjourn The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)of 1990.Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend — this meeting and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,or who have questions — regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-6076,or TTY/TDD(847)931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. r r ELGIN Sustainability Commission Agenda • Tuesday, February 14, 2017 • 6:15 PM Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex, City Hall Second Floor South Conference Room 150 Dexter Ct., Elgin, IL 60120 A. Call to order(chairperson) B. Roll Call (staff liaison) C. Approval of previous meeting's minutes D. Discussion Items E. Old Business 1. Partners for Places grant proposal &Community Gardens Continued discussion on community gardens projects in Elgin& meeting grant requirements. 2. Sustainability Action Plan Update Discuss progress report, make recommendations for future planning and select objectives to achieve in 2017 in addition to current initiatives F. Commissioner comments/announcements 1. Vote for Sustainability Honor Roll winner to be recognized at April meeting G. Adjourn The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)of 1990.Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend — this meeting and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,or who have questions — regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-6076,or TTY/TDD(847)931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. r ELGIN Sustainability Commission Minutes •Tuesday, February 14, 2017 • 6:15 PM Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex, City Hall Second Floor South Conference Room 150 Dexter Ct., Elgin, IL 60120 A. Call to order (chairperson) B. Roll Call (staff liaison) Chairperson Knoerr and Commissioners Aagesen, Alvarez, Fitton, Hajek, Hernandez, Keare, Masterson and Segel are present. C. Approval of previous meeting's minutes January 2017 meeting minutes were approved. D. Discussion Items No new discussion items. E. Old Business 1. Partners for Places grant proposal &Community Gardens Continued discussion on community gardens projects in Elgin & meeting grant requirements. Liaison will contact city clerk as whether it would violate OMA to have commission tour Metro Farms. There seems to be a grey area of whether it's considered commission business where it's research. Liaison updated the commission that the AID property zoned as Community Facility permitted use, and it would be easier to find a property with industrial zoning for such a project. Freight Farms comes and rehabs shipping containers. Growing Healthy People non-profit could be a good contact for the operations of such a urban farm/greenhouse. Commissioner Fitton will contact them and see if they could help, would be interested in expanding or at minimum provide a good model. 2. Sustainability Action Plan Update Discuss progress report, make recommendations for future planning and select objectives to achieve in 2017 in addition to current initiatives Commissioner Fitton suggested we look at requiring new construction to incorporate sustainable building practices like requiring builders to run conduit for solar or EV chargesr. It's expensive to put in after construction. In planning for subdivisions, the planning should include bioswales in the curb cuts and rain garden plantings in medians. Commissioner Hajek said the storm water ordinance handles it in masses, by storm water draining to detention basins. For 2017, some viable accomplishments can include amending ordinances to allow gardens to grow in any part of one's yard and requiring all multi family units to provide recycling. Chairperson Knoerr suggested walking signals don't automatically turn on with green traffic signals downtown, which is not pedestrian friendly. Liaison suggested this issue may be part of Complete Streets Plan and this concern will be passed along to the Elgin Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee. Another idea was to create a Native Plant certification program where homes could be flagged on Salesforce. This way, when code officers go around, they will know if a home has been certified to grow native plants in their yard, and thus not ticket for "weeds too tall." Commissioer Hajek found most of the objectives that were not completed or started had one of three obstacles: Ordinances, lack of funding or lack of education. Agriculture,for example, is driven by an ordinance change. Temporary agriculture could be modeled after the church by Woodbridge and Randall, with Troggs Hollow CSA farms. By the next meeting, commissioners should break up objectives by obstacle. Then the group can look at just those hindered by ordinances. If needed, the commission can break up into groups after that. Sol-smart is a free program, which was also mentioned. Communities can qualify and be certified, and then be provided technical support to encourage more solar throughout the community. This program may be worthwhile to pursue. F. Commissioner comments/announcements 1. Vote for Sustainability Honor Roll winner to be recognized at April meeting 2. Commission agreed to sponosor FVSN Lunch and Learn. The commission agreed to support the event in an amount not exceed $500. Liaison will check with city attorney if this would require any special notices in consideration of to the open meetings act. G. Adjourn The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)of 1990.Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,or who have questions regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-6076,or TTY/TDD(847)931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. i ELGIN Sustainability Commission Agenda •Tuesday, March 14, 2017 • 6:15 PM Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex, City Hall Second Floor South Conference Room 150 Dexter Ct., Elgin, IL 60120 A. Call to order(chairperson) B. Roll Call (staff liaison) C. Approval of previous meeting's minutes D. Discussion Items 1. Earth Day Sponsorship 2. Illinois Food Scraps Coalition Supporting Membership/Sustaining Partner 3. Fox Valley Sustainability Network Sponsorship 4. GreenTown Sponsorship E. Old Business (114 1. Sustainability Action Plan Update Discuss progress report and remaining objectives to tackle as they relate to known "obstacles" F. Commissioner comments/announcements 1. MetroFarms Tour 2. Lunch and Learn: Municipal Composting 3. 2017 Environmental Lobby Day on April 6 4. Lao Refugee Memorial Garden update G. Adjourn The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)of 1990.Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend — this meeting and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,or who have questions — regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-6076,or TTY/TDD(847)931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. r ELGIN Sustainability Commission Minutes • Tuesday, March 14, 2017 • 6:15 PM Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex, City Hall Second Floor South Conference Room 150 Dexter Ct., Elgin, IL 60120 A. Call to order (chairperson) B. Roll Call (staff liaison) C. Chairperson Knoerr and Commissioners Aagesen, Fitton, Hajek, Keare, Masterson and Segel are present. D. Approval of previous meeting's minutes February 2017 meeting minutes were approved. E. Discussion Items 1. Earth Day Sponsorship Liaison provided a budget for the 4th annual Earth Day Celebration at Hawthorne Hill Nature Center. Commissioner Fitton suggested we deliver flyers to elementary and early childhood buildings. The group would need to find the School District U-46 contact to get them approved by the central office. Liaison will reach out to Patsy Hirsh from the Master Gardner's Illinois Extension Office for possible seed donations. A motion was made to increase budget to $2000 to include flyer copies be distributed to schools. The motion was amended for the budget to not exceed $2500 to allow for ample marketing. The motion passed. 2. Illinois Food Scraps Coalition Supporting Membership/Sustaining Partner The commission agreed that the Organization Level sponsorship for $150 and for three people, would be a small investment and enough to get more information and be better educated to answer council questions related to food scrap composting. A motion to pay for the Organization Level sponsorship was made and passed. Commissioner Segel made a motion to purchase a year subscription to BioCycle. The motion failed. 3. Fox Valley Sustainability Network Sponsorship Liaison provided an overview of the network, the commission and city staff involvement thus far, and described why it might be worthwhile investment. Commissioner Hajek motioned the commission pay for the city sponsorship at the $1000 level. The motion passed. 4. GreenTown Sponsorship Commission Aagesen get more information from an event contact. There was a little confusion if this were a conference or an expo-type event. F. Old Business 1. Sustainability Action Plan Update Discuss progress report and remaining objectives to tackle as they relate to known "obstacles" Commissioners Aagesen and Hajek shared their breakdowns of the objectives into different categories. The commission agreed to look at these in more detail and each come back next month with some recommendations of objectives to tackle. G. Commissioner comments/announcements 1. MetroFarms Tour Liaison updated commission that the tour could take place either April 4 or April 18. 2. Lunch and Learn: Municipal Composting 3. 2017 Environmental Lobby Day on April 6 4. Lao Refugee Memorial Garden update 5. Kane County Food Hub Update Two potential locations from the Kane County RFP are in Elgin. Commissioner Aagesen will draft a letter supporting the options in Elgin and send it to the Elgin Development Group. H. Adjourn The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)of 1990.Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend -- this meeting and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,or who have questions regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-6076,or TTY/TDD(847)931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. I ► ELGIN Sustainability Commission Agenda • Tuesday, April 11, 2017 • 6:15 PM Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex, City Hall Second Floor South Conference Room 150 Dexter Ct., Elgin, IL 60120 A. Call to order(chairperson) B. Roll Call (staff liaison) C. Approval of previous meeting's minutes D. Communications 1. Sustainability Honor Roll Mayor Kaptain presents award to Advocate Sherman Hospital E. Discussion Items 1. Greenest Region Compact 2 Endorsement Review GRC2 and decide whether or not to move an endorsement forward to City Council 2. Trip to Freedom Field Discuss organizing summer trip to Freedom Field open to the public F. Old Business 1. Sustainability Action Plan Update Review objectives to tackle suggested by commissioners and narrow down list 2. Backyard Chickens Liaison to provide overall update on program and get feedback regarding expansion 3. Rain Barrel Sales Update on Rain Barrels sold and commitment for subsidies, set up potential pickup event G. Commissioner comments/announcements 1. MetroFarms Tour on Tuesday,April 18 2. GreenTown Conference on Thursday,April 27 3. Earth Day Celebration—determine who will help with set up and who will attend and cover Sustainability Commission table H. Adjourn The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)of 1990.Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend — this meeting and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,or who have questions — regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-6076,or TTY/TDD(847)931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. � r ELGIN Sustainability Commission Minutes •Tuesday,April 11, 2017 • 6:15 PM Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex, City Hall Second Floor South Conference Room 150 Dexter Ct., Elgin, IL 60120 A. Call to order(chairperson) B. Roll Call (staff liaison) Chairperson Knoerr and Commissioners Aagesen, Alvarez, Hajek, Keare, Masterson, and Segel present. C. Approval of previous meeting's minutes March 2017 meeting minutes were approved. D. Communications 1. Sustainability Honor Roll Mayor Kaptain presents award to Advocate Sherman Hospital E. Discussion Items 1. Greenest Region Compact 2 Endorsement Review GRC2 and decide whether or not to move an endorsement forward to City Council There's no cost to participate.The Metropolitans Mayors Caucus is looking for an endorsement. It can be considered for future framing of Elgin's action plan changes.The bigger the geographic area we can connect and move forward in the right direction, the stronger and more networked we are. We can learn from each other and accomplish goals together. It's another networking opportunity similar to the Fox Valley Sustainability Network. Commissioner Aagesen motioned to recommend Council adopt the endorsement of the Greenest Region Compact 2. 2. Trip to Freedom Field Discuss organizing summer trip to Freedom Field open to the public June 24 or July 22 would be good dates. Commissioner Masterson will check with Chet to confirm a date. Liaison will check on cost of the bus rental/trip and report to Commissioner Hajek. F. Old Business 1. Sustainability Action Plan Update Review objectives to tackle suggested by commissioners and narrow down list Commission will work in pairs to research some topics of interest as they relate the action plan and objectives not yet achieved as follows: • Commissioners Aagesen and Alvarez—multifamily recycling • Liaison and Commissioners Keare and Segel—solar • Commissioners Hajek and Chairperson Knoerr—gardens in front yard/side yard, and community gardens • Commissioners Aagesen and Masterson—solar for schools • Commissioners Alvarez and Hajek- analyze city code and what needs to be changed as well as look at potential text changes to ordinances. Groups will send over research to Commissioner Hajek to review how ideas could be impacted by municipal code. Commissioner Alvarez can be a resource for building code. 2. Backyard Chickens Liaison to provide overall update on program and get feedback regarding expansion The commission requested a report on calls/complaints to see if there's been any issues with the program. There is currently a waitlist of about 20 interested residents, and if no issues with the program, it should be expanded.Ten additional licenses were added last year, and the group should evaluate how many additional could be added to the ordinance, or if a limit is necessary. 3. Rain Barrel Sales Update on Rain Barrels sold and commitment for subsidies, set up potential pickup event Liaison provided update to number of rain barrels sold. A pickup event around Earth Day would be ideal for 2018. Liaison will look in to options to host presentations for Conservation@Home and Conservation@Work. G. Commissioner comments/announcements 1. MetroFarms Tour on Tuesday,April 18 2. GreenTown Conference on Thursday,April 27 3. Earth Day Celebration—determine who will help with set up and who will attend and cover Sustainability Commission table H. Adjourn The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)of 1990.Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,or who have questions regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-6076,or TTY/TDD(847)931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. r r Notice of Cancellation of Meeting SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION For the regularly scheduled meeting for May 9, 2017 The regularly scheduled meeting of Tuesday, May 9, 2017, has been canceled due no new discussion items and to allow commissioners extra time on current research projects. rThe next meeting will be on the regularly scheduled meeting date of June 13, 2017, at 6:15 p.m., Second Floor Conference Room, South Wing, City Hall, 150 Dexter Court, Elgin, IL 60120. Should you have any questions regarding the posting of this cancellation notice, please contact the staff liaison Molly Center at 847-931-5613. r (Pk ELGIN Sustainability Commission Agenda •Tuesday,June 13, 2017 • 6:15 PM Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex,City Hall Second Floor South Conference Room 150 Dexter Ct., Elgin, IL 60120 A. Call to order(chairperson) B. Roll Call (staff liaison) C. Approval of previous meeting's minutes D. Discussion Items 1. Beekeeping Presentation Elgin residents to provide an informational presentation on beekeeping and commission can discuss city ordinances and provide any recommendations 2. The Conservation Foundation's Fox River Initiative Presentation TCF staff will present on program and municipal partnerships 3. Metro Farms field trip recap Attendees to provide recap of the trip to Metro Farm and what next steps are recommended regarding Partners for Places grant opportunity E. Old Business 1. Sustainability Action Plan Update Review commissioner research findings and plan next steps to achieving objectives 2. Backyard Chickens Discuss program expansion 3. Trip to Freedom Field Discuss organizing summer trip to Freedom Field open to the public F. Commissioner comments/announcements 1. Liaison to update outgoing/incoming commissioners 2. Liaison to provide Climate Mayors update G. Adjourn The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)of 1990.Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend — this meeting and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,or who have questions — regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-6076,or TTY/TDD(847)931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. r • ,„! ELGIN Sustainability Commission Minutes •Tuesday,June 13, 2017 • 6:15 PM Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex, City Hall Second Floor South Conference Room 150 Dexter Ct., Elgin, IL 60120 A. Call to order(chairperson) B. Roll Call (staff liaison) Chairperson Knoerr and Commissioners Masterson and Segel present. C. Approval of previous meeting's minutes Approval was not voted on due to lack of quorum. D. Discussion Items 1. Beekeeping Presentation Elgin residents to provide an informational presentation on beekeeping and commission can discuss city ordinances and provide any recommendations Elgin resident Rizwan Arastu is a current backyard chicken keeper through the city's program. He discussed the benefits of beekeeping. For example bees pollinate a large amount of common crops. He discussed common concerns and addressed common misconceptions of bees and beekeeping.There may be many people that don't want to keep bees, but can appreciate the need to. Beekeepers are often eager to teach others and it's likely there are some in the area who would present at public meetings for people interested or those opposing to learn more about it. Liaison will share the presentation with the rest of the commission and follow up with Mr. Arastu. 2. The Conservation Foundation's Fox River Initiative Presentation TCF staff will present on program and municipal partnerships Trish Beckjord gave an overview of the Conservation Foundation, what they do and programs they offer. She introduced the Fox River Initiative, including both technical education and homeowner education. She discussed a new "conservation in our community" program where the organization can assist with special projects, better inform leadership and staff, and support MS4 permit requirements, educate and engage citizens, and more. They can provide recommendations on opportunities for green infrastructure and conservation design components. They can host HOA education programs, establish long-term management financing for conservation and green infrastructure components to both new and existing developments. She provided brochures on different programs that liaison will distribute to the entire commission at the next meeting. 3. Metro Farms field trip recap Attendees to provide recap of the trip to Metro Farm and what next steps are recommended regarding Partners for Places grant opportunity The commission tabled this item until the next meeting as most of those in attendance were on the tour. E. Old Business eliwk 1. Sustainability Action Plan Update Review commissioner research findings and plan next steps to achieving objectives Chairperson Knoerr briefly discussed a program she found called Edible Evanston. She thinks we need to think of an overall approach to an ordinance, not prohibiting things, but just establishing guidelines of what can't be there. Commissioners Aageson and Masterson are looking for ways to get middle schools and high schools access to places like Freedom Field or universities where there is scientific development of renewable energy.They would like to help them find programs that fund science projects in such areas area, especially as they relates to sustainability. Commissioner Segel has focused on the statute that was passed in the last session of 2016 dealing with the solar and wind industry. 2. Backyard Chickens Discuss program expansion Liaison has looked up complaint cases, and found none that were related to license holders in the backyard chickens program. There were currently 20 applicants on the waitlist to get licenses. Further discussion will continue at the next meeting to find recommendations on expansion of the program. 3. Trip to Freedom Field Discuss organizing summer trip to Freedom Field open to the public The commission will discuss a potential fall date when more commissioners are present. F. Commissioner comments/announcements 1. Liaison to update outgoing/incoming commissioners Commissioner announced the resignation of Commissioner Hernandez and non-renewals of Commissioners Alvarez and Fitton. One staff and one community-at-large member would be appointed prior to July meeting. 2. Liaison to provide Climate Mayors update Liaison briefly described Mayor Kaptain's involvement in Climate Mayors and his sign-on to a letter to President Trump supporting cities doing their part to honor Paris Agreement. 3. Announcements from Attendees Resident Todd Martin wished to discuss the Mayor's signature on the Climate Mayor's letter regarding the Paris Agreement. He suggested liaison find a baseline assessment of the emissions that was done during the working group of the sustainability formation in the 2000's. He suggested the front-end cost has already been paid for. He suggested the commission take action in writing a Climate Action Plan to address greenhouse gas emissions and goals to achieve reductions, and offered his assistance in such a project. G. Adjourn The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)of 1990.Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend - this meeting and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,or who have questions regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-6076,or TTY/TDD(847)931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. r II h ELGIN Sustainability Commisslon Agenda •Tuesday,July 11, 2017 • 6:15 PM Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex, City Hall Second Floor South Conference Room 150 Dexter Ct., Elgin, IL 60120 A. Call to order(chairperson) B. Roll Call (staff liaison) C. Approval of previous meeting's minutes D. Discussion Items 1. Beekeeping Discuss whether or not to recommend a city ordinance and what criteria to include 2. Metro Farms field trip recap Attendees to provide recap of the trip to Metro Farm and what next steps are recommended regarding the Partners for Places grant opportunity E. Old Business 1. Sustainability Action Plan Update Review commissioner research findings and plan next steps to achieving objectives 2. Backyard Chickens Discuss program expansion 3. Trip to Freedom Field Discuss organizing fall trip to Freedom Field open to the public F. Commissioner comments/announcements 1. Liaison to update outgoing/incoming commissioners 2. Liaison to provide Climate Mayors update G. Adjourn The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)of 1990.Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend — this meeting and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,or who have questions — regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-6076,or TTY/TDD(847)931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. r ELGIN Sustainability Commission Minutes •Tuesday, July 11, 2017 • 6:15 PM Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex, City Hall Second Floor South Conference Room 150 Dexter Ct., Elgin, IL 60120 A. Call to order(chairperson) B. Roll Call (staff liaison) Commissioners Aagesen, Hajek, Keare, Masterson, Segel and Waden present. Commissioner Aagesen assumed role of chairperson in Chairperson Knoerr's absense. C. Approval of previous meeting's minutes April 2017 minutes were approved. June minutes would be voted on at the following meeting when Chairperson Knoerr is present, as she was one of three present at that meeting. D. Discussion Items 1. Beekeeping Discuss whether or not to recommend a city ordinance and what criteria to include The commission discussed the Evanston ordinance and Naperville ordinance. More parameters could be wise when rolling out a new ordinance. The fencing maximum is six feet in the city, so that would need to be considered. Setback issues could vary, but ideally could depend distance from an occupied structure. Commissioner Waden provided that different areas of the city have different lot widths. For example, three have widths of about 65 feet, which is not very large. This may play a role in setbacks as well: A 20 foot setback would keep those homeowners from being able to participate. Setbacks could be modeled after the city's backyard chickens ordinance. Hives are typically elevated off the ground and take up about two square feet of space. Commissioner Waden will work with the city's GIS system to develop views of different lot sizes with setbacks marked. Commissioner Aagesen motioned the group come back with ordinance recommendations for a pilot program to review at the August meeting. The motion passed. 2. Metro Farms field trip recap Attendees to provide recap of the trip to Metro Farm and what next steps are recommended regarding the Partners for Places grant opportunity Liason and Commissioner Keare provided a recap of the tour. The commission expressed the city's role could be to support a feasibility study for such a project or look into ways to change zoning in areas to support projects like that. The commission motioned to put this idea aside for now and go focus on accomplishing action plan goals. During that process, if something is discovered to be a good opportunity for the grant, we can pursue it then. The motion passed. E. Old Business 1. Sustainability Action Plan Update Review commissioner research findings and plan next steps to achieving objectives It would be worthwhile to require new home construction and developments to run conduit so homes are solar ready. Commissioner Hajek will discuss with the planning department if there are restrictions or what requirements would involve. Comissioner Hajek suggested we look at what we want to do first, and then see if there is code that prohibits it, rather than the other way around. The group can then reate a wish list of ordinances to change. Commissioner Aagesen is working on a multi-family unit recycling survey. Commissioners Aagesen and Masterson are looking into providing educational presentations to schools and in the community. They hope to get Wanxiang Solar Panels manufacturers to come in and provide a demonstration. Liaison suggested the Alignment Collaborative for Education and U46 have a career fair that may be a good opportunity. She will provide a contact. 2. Backyard Chickens Discuss program expansion Given the increased interest, nearly inexistent complaint statistics and permit progress, the commission is recommending expansion without a limit to number of household licenses. Liaison will present a draft memo to the commission an upcoming meeting. The commission will assist in looking up other community statistics, such as license limits. In addition, it is a good time to review construction requirements. For example, perhaps it should not matter if a person prefers to use 1x8" or 2x4" wood for framing. In addition, the commission would research what prefabrication coops fit city specs and list them on the website, to save new license holders time in the permitting process if they are not building their own coop from scratch. 3. Trip to Freedom Field Discuss organizing fall trip to Freedom Field open to the public It would be feasible to rent a school bus for the trip. Liaison will see if the September 16 is available for a bus driver. F. Commissioner comments/announcements 1. Liaison to update outgoing/incoming commissioners The new Simple Recycling program launched. 2. Liaison to provide Climate Mayors update Amber suggested tracking bike traffic, etc., rather than greenhouse gas emissions, may be more feasible. G. Adjourn The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)of 1990.Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,or who have questions regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-6076,or TTY/TDD(847)931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. ELGIN Sustainability Commission Agenda • Tuesday, August 8, 2017 • 6:15 p.m. Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex, City Hall Second Floor South Conference Room 150 Dexter Court, Elgin, Il 60120 A. Call to order(chairperson) B. Roll Call (staff liaison) C. Approval of previous meeting's minutes D. Other persons present E. Discussion Items 1. Mayor's Monarch Pledge Consider providing support for Mayor's Monarch Pledge action items F. Old Business r 1. Beekeeping Discuss criteria and recommendations for a city ordinance 2. Sustainability Action Plan Update Review commissioner research findings and plan next steps to achieving objectives 3. Backyard Chickens Discuss program expansion 4. Trip to Freedom Field Discuss organizing fall trip to Freedom Field open to the public G. Commissioner comments/announcements H. Adjourn The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)of 1990.Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,or who have questions regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-6076,or TTY/TDD(847)931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. r i g, ELGIN Sustainability Commission Minutes • Tuesday, August 8, 2017 • 6:15 p.m. Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex, City Hall Second Floor South Conference Room 150 Dexter Court, Elgin, IL 60120 A. Call to order(chairperson) B. Roll Call (staff liaison) C. Approval of previous meeting's minutes June meeting minutes were approved. July meeting minutes were approved. D. Other persons present Rizwan Arastu was present and introduced himself. He recently presented to the commission on beekeeping and was happy to answer questions and partake in the tonight's discussion item. Chairperson Laura Knoerr announced her resignation. Chairperson Knoerr nominated Commissioner Aagesen to take her place as chair effective immediately. The motion was passed unanimously. Senior Management Analyst Laura Valdez attended and provided an update about the Student Representatives joining commissions. The Sustainability Commission is one of the boards and commissions that will receive a student representative for a term of the school year. The new position will be non-voting, but help provide additional perspective to community initatives. E. Discussion Items 1. Mayor's Monarch Pledge Consider providing support for Mayor's Monarch Pledge action items Commissioner Knoerr motioned that the commission support the Mayor's Monarch Pledge with signage and funding up to $1000. F. Old Business 1. Beekeeping Discuss criteria and recommendations for a city ordinance Consider setbacks vs. number of hives/size of yard. Maybe just a cap of 4 hives would be easier. Could break down by 2 per% acre, or 4 per 1/2 acre. If IDA is inspecting the health of the colonies, code would still be needed to inspect the zoning and setbacks. The permit fee would cover verifying notifications and code officer visit. Perhaps lower the $65 permit since it's not a small structure. When coming in for a license, we should provide people with information or resources. Perhaps we can create an online discussion board that is hosted on the cities website but not maintained by staff. It could have one group for chicken license holders and one for bees. Tia will help find a list of items. There are educational classes around the Fox Valley residents can take to learn about beekeeping. A motion for Liaison to bring a presentation forward to City Council with some recommendations and see if they would like to move forward with developing an ordinance. Lot sizes vary under 6,000 square feet to over 20,000. 2. Sustainability Action Plan Update Review commissioner research findings and plan next steps to achieving objectives Liaison will send out Sustainability Action Plan progress report spreadsheet to everyone since there are new members. Chair Knoerr said she had difficulty finding other cities that limit gardening in the front yard, many just noted not weeds over certain heights. Commissioner Hajek said native vegetation in the front yard should be allowed, but it could be an issue for code enforcement. Liaison will look into the Conservation at Home program more. Commission should review the progress report and look for some "low hanging fruit" action items that can be addressed. Commissioner Hajek suggested looking at it through the lens of items related to municipal code, investment or education, we could win by tackling some of the education-based items. Reviewing all educational items may be helpful to tackle low hanging fruit, and also make a big impact. Perhaps its better to redefine how we move forward that moving forward. The group could also look at a category per meeting and seeing collectively if this plan is supportive of the city's strategic plan or if that supports this plan. The commission expressed they are looking forward to hearing feedback from the community survey's sustainability question responses. 3. Backyard Chickens Discuss program expansion Commissioner Aagesen made a motion to have liaison ask council to bump up the number of licenses to 100. The motion passed unanimously. 4. Trip to Freedom Field Discuss organizing fall trip to Freedom Field open to the public Commissioners Aagesen, Masterson, Anderson, Knoeer, Hajek and Segel all plan to attend. Liaison will email Chet to followup. G. Commissioner comments/announcements Sustainability Honor Roll — Liaison put out a call for nominations and will send all nominees and survey link to vote after August 15. d Kane County Food Hub will be in Elgin and run by the owners of the Dream Kitchen Commission will reevaluate meeting start time for January 2018 H. Adjourn The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)of 1990.Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,or who have questions regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-6076,or TTY/TDD(847)931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. 4t= ELGIN Sustainability Commission Agenda •Tuesday, September 12, 2017 • 6:15 p.m. Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex, City Hall Second Floor South Conference Room 150 Dexter Court, Elgin, IL 60120 A. Call to order(chairperson) B. Roll Call (staff liaison) C. Approval of previous meeting's minutes D. Other persons present E. Discussion Items 1. Pumpkin Composting Event Discuss 2017 participation in the SCARCE Pumpkin Compost event the Saturday following Halloween and discuss logistics and availability of commission members F. Old Business 1. Sustainability Action Plan Update Review commissioner research findings and discuss next steps to achieving objectives G. Commissioner comments/announcements Trip to Freedom Field this Saturday, September 16 H. Adjourn The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)of 1990.Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,or who have questions regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-6076,or TTY/TDD(847)931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. r f••.. ELGIN Sustainability Commission Minutes •Tuesday, September 12, 2017 • 6:15 p.m. Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex, City Hall Second Floor South Conference Room 150 Dexter Court, Elgin, IL 60120 A. Call to order(chairperson) B. Roll Call (staff liaison) Chairperson Aagesen and Commissioners Hajek, Keare, Masterson, Miko, Segel and Waden were present. C. Approval of previous meeting's minutes August meeting minutes were approved. D. Other persons present No other persons present. E. Discussion Items 1. Pumpkin Composting Event Discuss 2017 participation in the SCARCE Pumpkin Compost event the Saturday following Halloween and discuss logistics and availability of commission members A motion was passed to participate in the regional municipal pumpkin composting day initiative on November 4, the Saturday following Halloween. The group agreed to keep the event in the old library lot located on the southwest corner of Grove and Kimball, where it was located last year. More marketing this year can increase participation. Ideas include adding text to the water bills that go out in October. Flyers and handouts can also be distributed to Jewel, Goeberts, Kleins, and other places where pumpkins are often purchased throughout town.The group should plan to bring items like a shovel,gloves, baseball bat, maybe bowling pins and even create a target of some sort to make the event fun, especially for kids. The liaison will create an updated flyer by the following week so commission can begin distribution. It may also be worthwhile to provide handouts to trick- or-treaters. F. Old Business 1. Sustainability Action Plan Update Review commissioner research findings and discuss next steps to achieving objectives Chairperson Tia suggested we develop a workshop or strategic planning meeting separate from regular business meetings.The workshop/meeting could allow time to reevaluate the current action plan and its unattained objectives as well as look at newer initatives and plans that should be incorporated into our focus, like the recently signed Mayor's Climate Action Agreement and the recently endorsed Greenest Region Compact II. Other items like the city issued community survey results, new comprehensive plan and strategic plan can t• influence such focus and decisions. Commissioner Segel suggested it is a good idea to also begin looking at grants in case current commission funding is not secured in the future. Right now,the group feels it can either target unachieved action plan objectives that are considered "low hanging fruit," or, the group can assess what action is most likely to trigger other actions. With a lack of unity on prioritization, Commissioner Miko motioned the group table this item until there is an opportunity to evaluate feedback from the community survey. G. Commissioner comments/announcements Trip to Freedom Field this Saturday, September 16 H. Adjourn The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)of 1990.Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,or who have questions regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-6076,or TTY/TDD(847)931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. r r 3 ELGIN Sustainability Commission Agenda •Tuesday,October 10, 2017 • 6:15 p.m. Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex, City Hall Second Floor South Conference Room 150 Dexter Court, Elgin, IL 60120 A. Call to order(chairperson) B. Roll Call (staff liaison) C. Approval of previous meeting's minutes D. Communications 1. Sustainability Honor Roll Councilwoman Rauschenberger presents award to Mauro Neuffer E. Other persons present F. Discussion Items 1. Community Survey Results Review community survey responses to sustainability questions. Full survey results are available on the city's website. 2. Partnership with Elgin Green Groups 350 to offer educational opportunities at the library and Hawthorne Hill Nature Center Discuss educational objectives and explore opportunities to partner with EGG350 or sponsor events like speakers on topics of sustainability,like community solar. G. Old Business 1. Sustainability Action Plan Update Review commissioner research findings and discuss next steps to achieving objectives H. Commissioner comments/announcements Pumpkin Composting Event on Saturday, November 4,9 a.m.-12 p.m. Commissioner volunteers needed to assist with entire event or half of the event. I. Adjourn The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)of 1990.Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend — this meeting and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,or who have questions — regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-6076,or TTY/TDD(847)931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. I r ELGIN Sustainability Commission Minutes •Tuesday, October 10, 2017 • 6:15 p.m. Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex, City Hall Second Floor South Conference Room 150 Dexter Court, Elgin, IL 60120 A. Call to order(chairperson) B. Roll Call (staff liaison) Commissioners Anderson, Hajek, Keare, Miko and Segel present. Commissioner Hajek assumed role of chair. C. Approval of previous meeting's minutes September 2017 meeting minutes were approved. D. Communications 1. Sustainability Honor Roll Councilwoman Rauschenberger presents award to Mauro Neuffer rik E. Other persons present F. Discussion Items 1. Community Survey Results Review community survey responses to sustainability questions. Full survey results are available on the city's website. The commissioners questioned where the satisfaction level came from in the sustainability results since there was no question specific to satisfaction. The group thought it may be worthwhile to conduct an online sustainability survey and/or hold focus groups, especially with key stakeholders in the area. Community asset mapping (for profit, non-profit, governmental, other commissions, etc) may prove beneficial in such outreach. The Fox Valley Sustainability Network helps us look at regional opportunities, but we also need to look at smaller groups, like Elgin Green Groups 350, Boys and Girls Club, Shared Harvest, etc. Connecting groups and institutions encourages others and provides support to initiatives. 2. Partnership with Elgin Green Groups 350 to offer educational opportunities at the library and Hawthorne Hill Nature Center Discuss educational objectives and explore opportunities to partner with EGG350 or sponsor events like speakers on topics of sustainability, like community solar. Pending review and approval of community solar presentation sent to the liaison from Sandy Kaptain, the group is willing to sponsor the community solar presentation at the library in January.The group is also interested in finding other ways to partner with and work with the group. • G. Old Business 1. Sustainability Action Plan Update Review commissioner research findings and discuss next steps to achieving objectives Between now and when the comprehensive plan and strategic plan are finalized, the group is interested in achieving some initiatives, or"low hanging fruit." Liaison will look into how long the commission's commitment is to pay Friends of the Fox. She will also add a commission budget discussion to the January 2018 agenda. H. Commissioner comments/announcements Pumpkin Composting Event on Saturday, November 4, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Commissioner volunteers are needed to assist with entire event or just a portion of the event if available. Liaison, along with Commissioners Hajek, Keare, Miko and Segel can volunteer. Liaison updated the commission on meeting with The Conservation Foundation and hopes to partner with them on native plant initiatives. Liaison also updated commission on plans to apply for and emergency efficiency reimbursement grant that could cover 75%of LED light fixture replacement project in The Highlands of Elgin golf course parking lot. I. Adjourn The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)of 1990.Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend — this meeting and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,or who have questions — regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-6076,or TTY/TDD(847)931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. C C I r ELGIN Sustainability Commission Agenda •Tuesday, November 14, 2017 • 6:15 p.m. Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex,City Hall Second Floor South Conference Room 150 Dexter Court, Elgin, IL 60120 A. Call to order(chairperson) B. Roll Call (staff liaison) C. Approval of previous meeting's minutes D. Other persons present E. Discussion Items 1. Proposed Procedural Changes for 2017 and beyond Discuss opportunities to bring more structure and efficiency to commission meetings 2. EnergySage marketing opportunity Review organization and discuss potential to partner for education and promotion of solar in the Elgin community 3. Fox Valley Sustainability Network Sponsorship Discuss commitment and terms of renewal from initial sponsorship F. Old Business G. Commissioner comments/announcements Next Fox Valley Sustainability Network meeting, 11/15/17 in Aurora "Importance of Sustainable Business and Economic Development" Commissioner Segel to provide brief recap of IL Soil, Food, Water and Composting Summit H. Adjourn The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)of 1990.Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend — this meeting and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,or who have questions — regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-6076,orTTY/TDD(847)931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. r ELG1N Sustainability Commission Agenda • Tuesday, November 14, 2017 • 6:15 p.m. Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex, City Hall Second Floor South Conference Room 150 Dexter Court, Elgin, IL 60120 A. Call to order(chairperson) B. Roll Call (staff liaison) Chairperson Aagesen and Commissioners Anderson, Hajek, Keare, Masterson, Miko, Segel, Waden present. C. Approval of previous meeting's minutes October 2017 meeting minutes were approved. D. Other persons present E. Discussion Items 1. Proposed Procedural Changes for 2017 and beyond Discuss opportunities to bring more structure and efficiency to commission meetings Liasion can create a website form for commissioners to complete when requesting new discussion items be added to the agenda. She can also create a Box folder for different discussion items with information, so the commission can reference that instead of digging through emails. Commissioner Anderson suggested we determine a "keeper" of the task list. There needs to be designated discussions for each procedural change. Liaison will inquire with the city clerk the roles of each staff liaison. Chairperson Aagesen will create a draft template for discussion items. The commission reviewed and approved 2018 dates. Commissioner Miko motioned to move meeting start times to 6:00 p.m. and the motion passed. Liaison will send an updated commissioner contact list to all. 2. EnergySage marketing opportunity Review organization and discuss potential to partner for education and promotion of solar in the Elgin community Commissioner Keare agreed to be the commissioner designated to solar initatives. Commissioner Miko motioned that the group think of questions and goals for EnergySage and send them to the liason and Commissioner Keare by December 1. They will have phone call with Energy Sage by December 8 and be able to follow up at the December meeting. Liaison also agreed to send commissioners the draft Strategic Plan. 3. Fox Valley Sustainability Network Sponsorship Discuss commitment and terms of renewal from initial sponsorship Commissioner Anderson suggested a goal of a sponsorship should be in place, such as helping attain something in city's Sustainability Action Plan. Commissioners Miko and Segel plan to attend the next Fox Valley Sustainability Network meeting. Liaison will ask for a report of accomplishments in 2017, as well as list of presentations/discussions. F. Old Business G. Commissioner comments/announcements Next Fox Valley Sustainability Network meeting, 11/15/17 in Aurora "Importance of Sustainable Business and Economic Development" Commissioner Segel to provide brief recap of IL Soil, Food, Water and Composting Summit Commissioner Segel will come up with a contact for ILFC and a summary of the event. H. Adjourn The City of Elgin is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)of 1990.Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend — this meeting and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting,or who have questions -- regarding the accessibility of the meeting or the facilities,are requested to contact ADA coordinator,at(847)931-6076,or TTY/TDD(847)931-5616 promptly to allow the City of Elgin to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. r C