EQC Meeting Date: August 19, 2026
To: Environmental Quality Commission
From: Sara Pabich, Sustainability Coordinator
Title
Staff Update
Body
Action Requested:
The EQC receives an update regarding staff activities.
Summary Report:
This update includes items not included as agenda items for this meeting.
Greater Minnesota Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Community Program: The City of Northfield has been selected to participate in the Greater Minnesota Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Community Program, which will provide technical assistance to explore potential EV charging sites. The City will evaluate the Northfield Transit Hub, Northfield Community Resource Center, and potential multifamily housing locations. Participation in Phase 1 will position the City to be eligible for potential Phase 2 funding to support EV charging infrastructure construction.
Upcoming EQC Meeting: Breanna Wheeler will attend the November 2026 EQC meeting to present her findings and provide an update on the Hauberg Woods restoration pilot project. The project focused on removing invasive species, increasing native biodiversity, and engaging volunteers and community partners in restoration efforts.
Composting: On August 3rd, City Council directed staff to prepare bids, timelines, and other relevant information for a universal residential curbside organic recycling program for further Council review and consideration of release for proposal.
Speed Limit Study: The Speed Limit Study will include a public survey beginning August 19, followed by two opportunities for community engagement. An open house on September 3 will gather public input on current speed limits, and a second open house on October 28 will share the study’s recommendations and gather additional feedback.
Riverwalk: Environmental Quality Commission will not be participating in the Riverwalk event for the month of August. We had hoped to secure a spot by getting off the waitlist; however, we were unable to obtain a space for this month. As a result, we will not be participating in the August event.
Budget Townhall:
• August 17th: At 6 p.m. in the 2nd floor Training Room at City Hall (801 Washington Street), City Administrator Ben Martig will provide an overview of the proposed budget, budget process, and timeline. The session is held in partnership with the Northfield Area Chamber of Commerce, and all community members are welcome. Questions may be submitted in advance. Submit questions here:www.northfieldmn.gov/BudgetQuestion <http://www.northfieldmn.gov/BudgetQuestion>
• August 18th: At 6 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at City Hall, community members will have the opportunity to engage with Council members and provide feedback on the proposed budget.
Complete the 2027 Budget Survey: <https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KY3W2FC>
• July 29th: Budget Townhall was recently held to provide an overview of the budget and an opportunity to discuss key budget-related information. A recording of the Townhall is now available to watch: City of Northfield Budget <https://www.northfieldmn.gov/193/Budget>
Alternative Options:
NA
Financial Impacts:
NA
Tentative Timelines:
NA