EQEM 12/8/2020
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY AND ENERGY COMMISSION
Fridley Municipal Center, 7071 University Ave Ne
MINUTES
59/9a.9w ЉБͲ ЋЉЋЉ
Location: Zoom Webinar
Call to Order
Chair Hanson called the Environmental Quality and Energy Commission to order at 7:03
Approval of Minutes
Chair Hansen called for a motion to adopt the minutes from the November 10, 2020 Environmental Quality and
Energy Commission minutes.
Commissioner Foell made a motion to approve the minutes and Commissioner Dritz seconded the motionto
approve the minutes with the above-mentioned corrections.
MOTION PASSED unanimously
Roll Call
Ms. Workin led a roll call. The following commissioners were absent and present
Present: Amy Dritz, Mark Hanson, Justin Foell, Nick Olberding, Heidi Ferris, Sam Stoxen,
Absent: Paul Westby
Staff: Rachel Workin, Environmental Planner
New Business
1. Craig Park
Ms. Workin shared that the City was planning a project in Craig Park to resolve longstanding flooding issues.
expressed support for increased native landscaping. The group discussed nature play elements included in the
draft plans. Commissioner Hansen commented that due to the proximity of Springbrook Nature Center, it might
be more strategic to have the nature play elements in a different park. Commissioner Ferris said that there were
different types of nature play: formal and informal. She also commented that the project should include
educational components and highlighting the river connection. Ms. Ferris recommended tree planting for
transpiration and hammocking. The commissioners suggested including a road diet of Bellaire Blvd as part of
the project. Commissioner Stoxen asked if there was concern regarding groundwater. Ms. Workin clarified that
the project was aiming to direct water away from the neighboring houses, not add more water to the storm
wellhead protection plan.
2. Wind Up! Fridley
Ms. Workin shared that the City was planning to promote the Wind Source program through a campaign in
January and February. Commissioner Dritz recommended tying it to the Energy Action Plan goals and creating
more awareness regarding the
Council members. Ms. Workin commented that they have seen positive feedback on testimonial-based outreach.
3. Girl Scout Camp
Chair Hansen asked those who attended the Girl Scout Camp presentation to share any details. Commissioner
Olberding said that the Metropolitan
they shared options for designs in the area surrounding the lift station. Commissioner Foell said that those
re of any designs or the process they
would be taking to develop the designs.
4. 2021 Tree sale
Ms. Workin asked the Commissioners their opinion regarding targeting areas with less tree canopy during the
tree sale. Commissioner Stoxen asked how areas would be located. Ms. Workin said she would talk with the
targeted mailer be sent to these area. Commissioners were supportive of using the tree sale pricing to incentivize
plantings in under-forested areas.
Old Business
1. 2021 Organics Outreach
Ms. Workin requested commissioner feedback regarding promotion the organics program. Commissioners
recommended having a Fridley-specific recycling calendar that had organics information, providing a mailer
that focused on the items that could be recycled, discussing the ease of the program in the winter, and focusing
on volume vs. tonnage. The group discussed barriers to the program including multi-family and townhouse
participation and lack of financial incentive for sizing down in trash can size.
Adjourn
Commissioner Dritz moved to close the meeting at 8:03 Commissioner Stoxen seconded.
MOTION PASSED unanimously