EQC Meeting Date: January 21, 2026
To: Environmental Quality Commission
From: Risi Karim, Assistant to the City Administrator / Staff Liaison
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
* Sustainability Coordinator
Sara Pabich will begin as the City's new Sustainability Coordinator on Tuesday, January 20. She is joining us from the City of Rochester and will begin serving as the staff liaison to the Commission starting in February.
* Community Climate Leaders Program
The University of Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership is bringing the Community Climate Leaders program to Northfield!
The City is excited to partner with Carleton College and the University of Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership to bring the Community Climate Leaders Program to our community in Spring 2026! This program equips participants with practical climate knowledge, strategies for local action, and a network of peers committed to making a difference.
The City will support Northfield residents by covering the registration costs through funds made available from the Carbon Reduction Fund, contributing a total of $3,000 to the program.
Northfield residents can learn about climate change, what it means for Minnesota, and what can be done in our community to build resiliency. The online curriculum begins March 23rd, with in-person sessions taking place from 2:30-5:30 on Friday April 3, 17, May 1 and May 15th at the Weitz Center for Creativity at Carleton College room 133. The registration deadline is March 9th. This opportunity is being provided for free of charge by the City of Northfield, with support from Carleton College.
* MN Department of Commerce RFP - Microgrids at Community Lifeline Facilities
The City has been awarded a grant contract through the Minnesota Department of Commerce for the installation of a battery bank at the Nor...
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