Minutes - Environmental Policy Board - 01/09/2006

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Chairperson McDilda asked for changes to the proposed 2006 work plan. He suggested adding the electronic version of the Tree Book and photo contest for a calendar to the work plan. Coordinator Anderson stated that there is the potential to make the Tree Book a more all inclusive tool, not being limited to a budget for paper copy with the web site. Chairperson McDilda stated that this would be an entirely different call out of menu item on the website and could occupy quite a bit of the Board's time. Coordinator Anderson stated that he and Environmental Specialist Bacon both sit on a web committee. He stated that once this plan was formulated, they could talk to the IT manager to determine parameters. Board Member Olds asked why it would have to be limited to the Tree Book. Chairperson McDilda suggested that it could be put in as the place holder as an electronic environmental piece to the web site. Board Member Olds stated there is a space on the web site which leads to the educational aspect of things that were talked about in the past to disseminate things to the public. Chairperson McDilda stated this will be submitted to staff, ~vhich ultimately goes to the Council for approval. He stated that the work plan and agenda should bring in more of the embodiment of Ramsey citizens for input. Board Member Max asked for clarification whether this would only include doing an electronic version. He stated that when talking only about electronic things, there isn't a volume benefit on printing costs to print a Tree Book or Wetland Book. He stated that some residents may possibly not even use an electronic version. Chairperson McDilda stated that these would be in addition to existing tools. Board Member Bentz asked if the electronic format was something that the EPB is permitted to do or would the Board's function simply be to come up with a recommendation to Staff. Coordinator Anderson stated that the EPB would provide recommendations for staff. He stated the IT personnel would set up a test site to see if it is usable and in a logical format. Chairperson McDilda stated that the EPB can piggy back on what the City staff is already doing with the web site. Environmental Specialist Bacon stated that there is an EPB icon on the existing web site. Chairperson McDilda stated that feedback for Comprehensive Plan Update is still an ongoing process for the EPB to offer input. He stated this should be left on the agenda for 2006. Coordinator Anderson stated that he had discussed this with the Community Development Director who was in agreement that the EPB should have some input on this matter. Environmental Policy Board / January 9, 2006 Page 10of16