Agenda - Environmental Policy Board - 09/19/2016

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Board Member Hiatt stated that while he likes the like prairie restoration idea, he thinks it would be more cost efficient to go with mulch. Motion by Board Member Hiatt and seconded by Board Member Anderson to recommend the City Council approve removing the plant material, leaving the trees, and then placing landscape fabric and mulch. Further discussion: Public Works Superintendent Riemer noted this decision will be considered for future median requests. City Planner Anderson described the locations of other medians that could be in similar situations including Brookfield and Village of Sunfish Lake. Board Member Hiatt asked about the opportunity to establish a maintenance fund to cover these types of costs. City Planner Anderson explained how that would be handled through homeowners' association documentation. Board Member Bernard noted most residents keep their own yards looking nice so since this decision sets a precedence, he supported the City doing nothing and asking the homeowners to take on this work as it is the entrance to their neighborhood. Board Member Trossen stated then the issue is that maybe only one or two residents would be willing to take that on so there isn't enough help to get the work done or cover the costs. City Planner Anderson noted one difference is that this median falls within the City's right-of-way so it is not similar to a resident working to keep their yard nice. Board Member Bernard stated in that case, he would support removing the plant material and placing wood mulch but does not think it will look as nice. Public Works Superintendent Riemer stated the public's general assumption is that this is City property and the City maintains it and so there is a potential concern of perception as well. Board Member Hiatt stated along Alpine Drive, that neighborhood takes good care of a public area. City Planner Anderson agreed but noted this is a much larger area. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Stodola, Board Members Hiatt, Anderson,Bernard,and Trossen. Voting No: None. Absent: Board Members Covart and Valentine. 5.02: Consider Goals of Recycling Program City Planner Anderson presented the staff report, noting the City is in year four of a five-year contract with Ace Solid Waste for curbside collection of recyclable materials. The purpose of this case is to review the goals developed related to the City's recycling program and discuss policy direction once the current contract expires. The focus is on the City's current organized curbside recycling contract and does not contemplate extending organized collection into solid waste disposal. City Planner Anderson described three options: enter into negotiations with the current service provider to extend the contract; prepare a Request for Proposal (RFP) for competitive bids for curbside collection of recyclables; or migrate to an open hauling system. City Planner Anderson noted that last month, the Board discussed several goals including maximizing recyclable materials covered, public education and marketing, customer service, and expanding the program to include new materials. Based on that discussion, staff drafted a document to address these objectives and also provide basic background information about the community, current recycling program, and County/State recycling objectives through 2030. City Planner Anderson read the list of program goals. Environmental Policy Board/July 18, 2016 Page 3 of 6