Minutes - Environmental Policy Board - 04/02/2012

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Councilmember Backous stated that he believed there could be a tiered fee structure where for profit businesses would have a fee, whether it was for the Environmental Expo specifically or if the two events were combined, and the fee would be waived for not - for - profit companies and organizations. Board Member Lewis stated that he had attended a beekeeping class through the U of MN, which was booked solid and that that might draw some interest. Associate Planner/Environmental Coordinator Anderson stated that he's had Gary Reuter from the U of MN attend the event in the past as well as the MN Hobby Beekeepers Association. But, like many volunteer groups, they are stretched pretty thin and haven't responded to the invite for this year's event. Councilmember Backous inquired about geocaching and whether that may be an exhibit to explore. He suggested contacting the local geocaching group to see if they may be interested. Chairperson Max asked the new members if they'd looked at the EPB webpage yet. None of the new members had had a chance yet to view the page. Councilmember Backous asked what the Board's booth was going to include. Board Member Bentz stated that he liked the reuse or recycling topics. Board Member Lewis suggested getting feedback from citizens about topics they think the Board should work on. Chairperson Max suggested a focused question could be posed to attendees to get feedback. Associate Planner/Environmental Coordinator Anderson stated that the Board has in the past solicited feedback from attendees in various formats. Board Member Bentz stated that the Board typically has their approved work plan posted somewhere within its booth. Board Member Hiatt stated that he thinks the expo could be a tool to get ideas for future work plans. A general discussion ensued about the structure of the Board including the requirement of having an approved work plan and how the Board could possibly be more effective, especially if good ideas come up during the year that are not reflected on the approved work plan. Chairperson Max stated that the Board could maybe approach other Boards /Commissions to see how the EPB could help with them. Councilmember Backous stated that the work plan should be fluid to allow the Board to work on various topics if they arise during a year. Environmental Policy Board / April 2, 2012 Page4of6