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5. POLICY BOARD BUSINESS 5.01: Receive Update on GreenStep Cities Program City Planner Anderson presented the staff report. City Administrator Ulrich reported that there was a spirited discussion at the previous Council meeting regarding the values that the community holds and are reflected in the visions of the Comprehensive Plan and Strategic Plan. He referenced a mention of prohibiting campfires and did not feel that would be appropriate for a city like Ramsey. He stated that the intent of the Council was to bring this item back to the EPB to determine which aspects of the program coordinate with the values of the City. He agreed that there are some things included in the program, which could be beneficial to the City in terms of becoming more efficient and cost effective. Chairperson Max noted that the intent is that this program is completely voluntary and any of the items in the program could be chosen or not chosen. Councilmember LeTourneau stated that the Council would like to see guiding principles of what would be considered under the program and what would not be considered. Board Member Valentine agreed that there was a spirited discussion at the Council meeting and noted that after listening to that conversation he believed that perhaps the Board should backup and discuss the foundation for the program, the intent and how items could be implemented. He noted that any item brought forward for consideration would go back before the City Council for review. He believed that it would be important to identify the guiding principles and provide clarification. He stated that rather than edit items out of the program, which includes so many items, the emphasis should remain on the guiding principles. Chairperson Max explained that should the City join this program it would open up alternative options and things that the EPB and City staff may not have thought about on their own, similar to the League of Minnesota Cities. Board Member Bentz noted that this program provides ideas but also acts as a reminder to things that are necessary, such as energy use tracking. City Planner Anderson confirmed that throughout the GreenStep Cities program he did identify that the energy uses were not being tracked on City buildings and monitored, as required, and he since has begun trying to go back in time to record those levels. He asked for input regarding the direction the Board would like to move forward and direction to staff, noting that information could be prepared for the March meeting for review. Board Member Lewis stated that he views this program as a recognition of things that the City is accomplishing and also acts as a resource for the City to use. He noted that nothing would be mandatory. Environmental Policy Board / February 3, 2014 Page 2 of 8