2012-01-24_PWETC_Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Chair DeBenedet noted inclusion in best practices of LED street light use that he'd previously brought up as a future consideration and discussion for the City; and the relatively short payback period indicated on this website versus his original estimates; causing him to question what was delaying the City moving in that direction. Ms. McKeown noted the promotion of peer learning among cities rather than recreating the wheel in each city; and advised that best practices had originally been pulled nationwide. Member Vanderwall questioned if subjective and/or quantitative evaluations were available through this program for participating cities. Ms. McKeown advised that at this point, there were not sufficient results, but they were currently working on such documentation through case studies on older best practices. Ms. McKeown admitted that the program had taken off quicker than anticipated and was proving somewhat overwhelming, with other agencies framing their work on the GreenStep Cities model. Given today's budget climate, Member Vanderwall questioned the viability and long-term existence of this program. Ms. McKeown assured Commissioners that the program was intended to be long- term, since it was run by the MPCA, and has had one staff person dedicated to the program who had been working on similar programs for some time, but now it was more focused and made more sense. Ms. McKeown advised that the Commissioner of the MPCA was strongly supportive of the program and would continue to defend it, as well as the partners around the table who are likewise committed. Through upcoming workshops, one on retrofitting for cities and counties to be held at the U of MN through Sen. Franken's office, Ms. McKeown noted that the program would become even more visible and gather further momentum. Chair DeBenedet sought Member input on whether to explore this program further at a future PWET Commission meeting, opining that there were some aspects that were of strong interest to him, and would ultimately save the City money. At the request of Member Stenlund on the cost of the program, Ms. McKeown advised that there was no cost to the City. Member Vanderwall noted that there would be some cost in staff time to get documentation in place on best practices already in place. Member Vanderwall questioned if most cities performed a preview of best practices in place prior to passing the resolution. Page 5 of 10