Minutes - Environmental Policy Board - 12/01/2008

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Chairperson McDilda commented that in doing projects of this nature not only does the community benefit, but the public is also being educated. Board Member Sibilski suggested working with the Boy Scouts and other organizations, where the Board could suggest a project for those organizations to complete. Board Member Bentz suggested sponsoring a challenge of sorts where different organizations could develop a project concept and the winner would receive a plaque. Board Member Stodola confirmed that noise pollution is included in the Board's scope and questioned what could be done to eliminate train whistles. Environmental Coordinator Anderson advised that there could be whistle-free zones established but explained that certain safety issues would need to be addressed before that could happen. He advised that the Public Works Department had been working on that issue for quite some time. Board Member Stodola advised that if he had spent the night in the home he purchased before purchasing he would not have purchased the home because of the train. Environmental Coordinator Anderson stated that he would check on the progress of the whistle- free zones with the Public Works Department and update the Board on that item. He summarized the following items for the work plan: an Arbor Day tree planting event, in conjunction with the Park and Recreation Commission; an educational demonstration event; a water conservation theme for 2009, including an irrigation tips brochure, septic and well upkeep, xeric landscaping; logistics for a compost site; and a whistle-free zone. Chairperson McDilda advised that the whistle-free zone should be an update at the next meeting rather than an item on the 2009 work plan. Environmental Coordinator Anderson advised that he would have a proposed work plan for the Board to review at the next meeting fOJ further discussion, with final approval from the Board in January and hopefully Council approval ofthe plan in January. BOARD AND STAFF INPUT Environmental Coordinator Anderson advised that he recently met with some of the tree vendors that have historically been involved with the expo and tree sale. He advised that they are currently planning to hold the event on the last Saturday in April, which would hopefully allow for the distribution of seedlings from the DNR. He advised that he is hoping to develop a website for the Environmental Expo itself, rather than just listed on the City website. He advised that the Planning Commission would be meeting on Wednesday night and would be discussing proposed topsoil regulations. He advised that the proposed regulation would require a minimumc of four inches of topsoil on a lot being improved with the new construction of a principal structure; a six month timeframe not only to install the topsoil but to also establish a lawn;. a definition of compost would be included, as well as organic matter. He passed out the latest issue of the Shade Tree Advocate. Board Member Max questioned if the option to use seedlings could be investigated rather than mature tree plantings. Environmental Policy Board / December 1, 2008 Page 5 of7