HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-10-12Falcon Heights Environment
City of Falcon Heights
Environment Commission
Meeting Minutes
August 13, 2012
Present: Commissioners Diane Ross, Brian Goodspeed, Peggy Hall, Nina
Semmelroth, Mayor Peter Lindstrom, Deb Jones (Staff).
Absent: Jeff Connell, Rebecca Montgomery, Ethan Wagner, Isaac Mielke
1. At 6:30, those present were conducted to the roof of City Hall to view the solar
photovoltaic installation in progress. The installation is mostly complete. Public
Works expects to “throw the switch” sometime next month.
2. Model Beekeeping Ordinance. Staff provided a map and chart showing the
status of beekeeping in communities of Ramsey County. Only two cities, St. Paul
and Lauderdale, allow bees by permit. Six communities, including Falcon
Heights, prohibit beekeeping in residential zones. Seven do not address it in their
codes. Two had not been heard from in time.
Commissioners finished going over the model ordinance. They are in favor of
requiring a permit, beekeeper training and neighbor approval, similar to the
Minneapolis ordinance. A draft will be provided next month for final
recommendation.
3. Recycling. Staff liaison Deb Jones presented an overview of Ramsey County’s
“report card” on Falcon Heights recycling and an update on coming state EPA
requirements for 2016. On the whole, we do well, but there is potential for
improvement, such as business and event recycling. Grant money is available for
innovative recycling ideas. Commissioners were asked to think about it and
bring ideas next month.
4. Sustainability Workshops. The City was approached by professors and
students at the UM to sponsor these opportunities for residents to learn ways to
make our communities more sustainable. The dates are October 11 and
November 1. Everyone is invited! Co-sponsor are Lauderdale and St. Anthony.
Time and location information will be posted on the City website.
5. Adjournment. The meeting adjourned at about 8:30 p.m.