EQEM 07/09/2018
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY AND ENERGY COMMISSION
Fridley Municipal Center, 6431 University Ave Ne
MINUTES
WǒƌǤ ВͲ ЋЉЊБ
Location: City of Fridley City Hall, Conference Room A
Call to Order
Vice Chair Olberding called the meeting to order at 7:10 PM
Members present: Nick Olberding, Kyle Mulrooney, Paul Westby, Heidi Ferris, Justin Foell,
Absent: Mark Hansen, Sam Stoxen
Staff present: Rachel Workin, Environmental Planner
Approval of Minutes
Commissioner Mulrooney moved to approve the April 10, 2018 meeting minutes. Commisioner Westby
seconded the motion.
MOTION PASSED unanimously
New Business
Recycling
1)
Ms. Workin provided an update about changes in the recycling market as a result of new policies from
China that prohibit certain materials, raise contamination standards, and increase inspections. She stated
survey of current participants. Additional questions were suggested.
National Trails Day
2)
The group decided not to reschedule the National Trails Day event in 2018. It was suggested to integrate
the event into 49rs Day, and Ms. Workin said she would stay alert to planning information. The group
suggested a passport style event to encourage residents to explore different parts of the City.
Interest in Speakers
3)
Ms. Workin asked the group if there were any speakers they were interested in. The group recommended
hearing from the Parks Department regarding organizational changes. Commissioner Westby suggested
a presentation on sustainable yardcare; Commissioner Ferris recommended speakers on energy, food
justice, smart salting, Audubon, and integration of sustainability across organizational levels.
ERR planting maintenance
4)
Commissioners decided to host August meeting at East River Road planting. Ms. Workin stated that she
would provide more information on what tools to bring.
Old Business
49rs Day Parade
1)
Ms. Workin stated the Commissioners Foell and Hanson helped distribute over 700 magnets at the
parade, and recommended that the group participate again next year. Commissioner Foell said that one
recipient of a magnet requested every week recycle.
Other
1)July Drop-off July 14
nd
Ms. Workin stated that the next drop-off was on Saturday July 2.
2)Step 2 Award
Ms. Workin stated that the City was presented with the Step 2 GreenStep City award by the Great Plains
th
Institute on July 10 and also received an award for being a Tree City. She thanked the EQEC for their
diligence and work to make it possible.
3)New Development
Commissioner Ferris asked about the development at East River Road and 694. Ms. Workin stated that
this is a two-building industrial and commercial center with the primary occupant being Curtis 1000.
Commissioner Mulrooney shared an update on a transit-oriented development at the NorthStar train
station.
Adjournment
Commissioner Westby moved to adjourn the meeting and Commissioner Foell seconded the motion. The
meeting adjourned at 8:15
.