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Board Member Moore provided an update on a recent conference that she attended. She referenced <br /> a discussion regarding organics that occurred, noting that the organics recycling program in <br /> Ramsey seems to be very progressive compared to other communities in the metro. She stated <br /> that engaging youth in the community was a large focus of discussion as well. She explained that <br /> in some communities there are active youth groups completing projects and attempting to bring <br /> about new policies, while other communities were having difficulty engaging the youth <br /> population. She stated that perhaps that could be an item to add to the work plan as hat group <br /> seems to be instrumental in bringing about changes and implementing new projects. She noted <br /> that in some communities there are Master Gardeners that review landscaping plans to provide an <br /> additional element of input on tree types and vegetation. <br /> Councilmember Shryock stated that it is exciting to be involved with different Boards and see how <br /> things begin to come together. She referenced the discussion about education and encouraging <br /> residents. She noted that there has been discussion about smart sprinkler technology and there will <br /> be an attempt to bring forward resources to help residents take advantage of those. She referenced <br /> the Resilient Communities Program with the University of Minnesota that was completed and <br /> noted that perhaps that would be a group to consult on how to engage the youth population. She <br /> stated that there are a number of Master Gardeners in Ramsey and that would be a good resource <br /> that may be willing to provide assistance. She stated that community engagement is an element <br /> that the City Council would like to focus on, and these ideas are a great way to continue that effort. <br /> She encouraged the group to think about what they can do and mesh that together with the amount <br /> of time that staff has to assist in accomplishing those items. She noted that prioritization is also <br /> important, as items can be placed on a waiting list for future years. <br /> Board Member Hiatt stated that there is a new elementary school coming online within the year, <br /> which is a good opportunity to create a connection for engagement. He stated that the younger <br /> you start engaging youth with environmental issues, the more successful that endeavor will be as <br /> the information shared will continue to grow as those students continue on in their learning <br /> experience. <br /> Councilmember Shryock agreed that getting the youth involved helps to increase participation <br /> throughout the City, as those students will bring that information home to parents and <br /> grandparents. She stated that as the work plan is developed that will help the Board create the <br /> focus and plan to engage the students. <br /> Board Member Fetterley agreed that opportunity with a new school is great. She suggested perhaps <br /> investigating green architecture initiatives. She stated that as the community continues to grow, it <br /> would be nice to see some businesses engaging in green architecture initiatives. She agreed that <br /> when developing the work plan it will be helpful to find items of focus and then better define <br /> actions that will help to accomplish the goals. <br /> Board Member Hiatt stated that it was helpful that this was placed on the agenda now, which <br /> provides additional time for thought and planning. <br /> 6. BOARD / STAFF INPUT <br /> • Arbor Day Event <br /> Environmental Policy Board / April 15, 2019 <br /> Page 5 of 6 <br />