Minutes - Council - 01/28/2014 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mayor Strommen opened the floor for public comment. Wayne Buccholz, 14621 Neon Street NW, objected to elected officials considering this Program that was originated by the United Nation's Codes and Standards. He felt the lure was grant funds and the intent was to completely transform the City. He urged the Council to resist this trend and not consider laws that take away from freedoms instead of contributing to freedoms. Jim Bendtsen, 14131 Junkite Street NW, stated everything in this framework can be undertaken without joining this Program. He cautioned about taking grants that have additional conditions and requirements, noting many consultants would be happy to lecture for hours at no cost. Mr. Bendtsen felt this Program was a "Trojan Horse" that would lead to more restrictions and controls. Philip Muessig, GreenStep Cities Program Coordinator, described the GreenStep Cities Program and its expectation that while some cities may ban wood burning boilers, others would not. He reiterated the benefits of being part of the Program and assured the Council that it was developed in the offices of the League of Minnesota Cities, not by the United Nations. Councilmember Tossey stated rather than government making demands, he thinks the market will decide some of these action items. Mayor Strommen stated the EPB and staff have made the point that the focus is on what the City can do and guiding principles. She indicated the GreenStep Cities Program website shows a range of communities participating that have a wide range of interests. Mayor Strommen supported the suggestion of staff to table consideration to allow time to develop guiding principles. Councilmember Backous stated he also served with the EPB and thinks Ramsey would get more, publicity because it is the right thing to do. He stated many on the EPB have that type of expertise and he thinks the City does not need to join an organization when there is no benefit. Mayor Strommen stated there is benefit with the structure of a program and its collegiality. Bob Bentz, Environment Policy Boardmember, stated his support for the GreenStep Cities Program and for the City to lead by example. He urged the Council to not be shortsighted. John Enstrom, 8702 101S Avenue NW, stated his house has been heated with wood for 130 years and suggested, before proceeding, to find out if this Program has a proven track record. Mr. Enstrom stated he is a big conservationist but thinks there are higher priorities than this Program. Motion by Mayor Strommen, seconded by Councilmember LeTourneau, to table consideration of Resolution #14-01-021 Authorizing the City to Participate in the Minnesota GreenStep Cities Program and direct staff to draft guiding principles for discussion at a future Work Session. City Council / January 28, 2014 Page 11 of 13