2024-01-28 PWETC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mr. Schmidt indicated the County would like to be able to give a full tour of the new building once the certificate of occupancy is approved. The Commission thought seeing and being given a tour would be great. 6. Sustainability Super Meeting & Green Team Update Sustainability Specialist Bakken provided an overview of sustainability efforts and goals. Ms. Bakken explained that her achievements in 2024 included maintaining Green Step 5, adopting the Green to Go ordinance, and winning various awards. She also updated the Commission on solid waste and recycling, including data from cleanup and shredding days. Ms. Bakken indicated the Green to Go outreach included informational letters, listening sessions, and in -person business outreach. She explained plans for 2025 included increasing residential recycling rates, recognizing compliant businesses, and promoting the food scraps pickup program. Ms. Bakken discussed the participation in solar and non -solar rewards programs, noting a drop-off after the switch from Wind Source to Renewable Connect. She provided a graph showing solar and renewable energy permits year over year, which indicated an overall increase in solar adoption. Ms. Bakken mentioned that solar energy was becoming more affordable and that more companies were offering services, which should continue to increase participation. Looking ahead to 2025, she emphasized the need to expand outreach to reduce energy burden and mentioned sending letters to homeowners about available programs and free home energy squad visits. Ms. Bakken highlighted the partnership with Keystone Community Services to expand Mobile Food pickup areas and mentioned the continuation of the Energy Action Plan. She noted the city focused on business energy efficiency opportunities and working with partners to expand awareness. This was a key goal for 2025. She also stated that Roseville reached Green Step 5 for 2024 and was completing reporting for the Gold Leaf Program, which focused on climate action. She explained the bike plan was included as a community visioning project, and there might be physical awards for the work done. Ms. Bakken discussed the shift from focusing on May for pollinator protection to a more sustainable yard care outreach throughout the year. To finalize the new approach, a meeting with the City Council is planned for some time in February. Ms. Bakken indicated that climate action planning was amajor focus for 2025, with the hope of receiving formula funding from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program. A backup plan involves applying for a Page 4 of 7