Agenda - Environmental Policy Board - 12/21/2015

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said he explained other items are collected on recycling day, and it has been a very popular service for the City. City Planner Anderson stated most people are not coming to Happy Days to gather City information. When they do come up to a City booth, it is likely more for an opportunity to ask about a street repair, or restaurants or retail projects, or something of the sort. He said he wasn't surprised that there was not a ton of walk-up traffic talking about environmental issues. He noted that in the future, the tent for City information would likely be in the same general area. The City tent uses space that this is not used for paying customers, leaving more prime locations for paying customers. He commented he thought the question used to induce discussion of "What value do natural resources and conservation add to your neighborhood?" was rather difficult. He said many people asked if they should answer in terms of a percentage or number. He suggested changing it to a yes/no question, or use the words "does this add value" if there is a booth next year. He also commented the recycling program does add a value and a purpose to the City. When there are 450 cars coming through in a few hours like last spring, that indicates to him that it is a beneficial service. Acting Chairperson Valentine stated having a question like that is helpful in raising visibility and bringing a positive light to the City. He said he thought it did well to show the City's interest and raise positivity. City Planner Anderson suggested if the Board wishes to continue involvement next year, he would use trees and recycling as topics to draw people in. There are a lot of calls on these issues and there were people that came to the booth with specific questions on both topics. Board Member Lewis stated if the Board's participation in Happy Days continues, it must find a way to engage more people with things that will be of interest to them. He suggested printing out a recycling calender, or offering a recyclable grocery bag with environmental or recycling information inside the bag. Then this Board's participation becomes valid. He said he also heard a lot of questions that would be better directed to Parks and Recreation in the short time he was at the booth. Board Member Bentz explained he found that if he could get a resident to come over to answer the question posed, he could lead them into other conversations. They became interactive and asked questions. He said if he mentioned the parks and trails and asked if people use them, he found many people were not informed about the canoes and bikes that can be used. He said there should be something to keep parents as well as kids engaged at the booth. City Planner Anderson summed up that he heard a general consensus that there is some value to having a booth. People have to be drawn in, and there should be meaningful conversation. Staffs role would be to provide information. If Board Members wanted to be part of the booth, it would be their option. He stated he would take less time in discussions leading up to the event. Board Member Lewis asked if there is any budget to put together a swag bag. City Planner Anderson answered there is a budget. He said he didn't need to purchase anything this year because there was sufficient overflow from previous years. He noted the bags are almost gone, but it would be easy to get more and stuff them with meaningful items. Depending Environmental Policy Board / September 21, 2015 Page 5 of 7