HomeMy WebLinkAbout5-11-15 EC MinutesCity of Falcon Heights
Environmental Commission Minutes
May 11, 2015
PRESENT: Commissioners Hall, Hartman, Montgomery, and Holmes, Council Member
Mercer-Taylor, Staff Liaison Moretto
ABSENT:
The meeting was called to order at 6:36 p.m. by Chair Holmes.
The minutes of the Mach 13, 2015 meeting of the Environmental Commission were
approved.
Urban Forestry Update – Andy Hovland
Mr. Hovland provided a detailed update regarding the condition of Falcon Height’s tree
inventory (iTree). Mr. Hovland also discussed ways in which to achieve the city’s goal of
diversifying the tree stock.
He also provided feedback regarding the new company planting the trees and was impressed by
their work. There is concern about the balance between the kinds of trees that are resilient to
climate change and other factors and those that are easily maintainable and aesthetically
pleasing.
Mr. Hovland responded to climate related questions such as flooding issues, tree installation
timing, and additional information. He said that the replanting project from the DNR is ending.
This means tree installation needs to happen quickly. Flooding can be problematic in situations
where the trees were planted poorly. Talk to Leslie from the Forest Service for more information
and data.
Cornercompia – Courtney Tchida
The Cornercopia is a UMN student organic farm program started eleven years ago. This program
provides produce and information for the greater community as well as students. Started with a
one acre field and has grown to five and a half acres. This site is near the Good Acre
development on the northeast corner of the St. Paul Campus. Their mission is to educate students
and the general public about organics and food related issues.
Might be interested in a CSA with Falcon Heights but do not want to step on Farmer’s toes.
They currently provide produce to the UMN and a few restaurants. They also have tours and an
open house. They would like volunteers for events like “weed” dating.
2015 Recycling RFP – Jean Buckley
The current RFP is in good shape for the 2015 proposal. There are some issues that need to be
resolved. The Commission wanted to include items such as future organics, low waste and high
use, multi-family educational information, possible translations, temporary hardships, every
week pickups, and a multitude of other items.
Staff Liaison Moretto will work with Jean Buckley to compose a final draft for the next
meeting’s packet.
Information and Announcements:
No information or announcements were made.
Community Forum:
No community forum was held.
ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Paul Moretto – Staff Liaison