EQC Meeting Date: April 17th, 2024
To: Members of the Environmental Quality Commission
From: Risi Karim, Assistant to the City Administrator / Staff Liaison
Title
Staff Update
Body
Action Requested:
The EQC receives updates from staff
Summary Report:
This update includes items not included as agenda items for this meeting.
* Less Mow May
This year the City is rebranding No Mow May to Mow Less May. Less Mow May is an effort to support pollinators who emerge from hibernation or migrate to Minnesota in early spring and are in deep need of nectar and pollen for food. A Resolution for the initiative was passed by Council in March to temporarily suspend enforcement of portions of the City Code relating to Turf Grass and Weed management, allowing participating residents to refrain from mowing their lawns from May 1 until June 10, 2024 without penalty. A few other cities have also passed the initiative with the rebrand moving to Mow Less May.
Similar to last year we will have residents who wish to participate to register in advance for Mow Less May, the initiative will take place from May 1 to May 31st with a grace period of two weeks to get lawns back in compliance with City code. This is 100% optional for residents but they must register in advance.
* Paper Shredding Event
The City has organized and sponsored a paper shredding event at the Streets and Parks Maintenance Facility (1710 Riverview Drive, Northfield) that is occurring Saturday April 27th from 9:00am to 12:00pm.
A few more volunteers are still in need for the event.
* Earth Day
Northfield Earth Day Celebration will be taking place Saturday April 27th.
The City is a gold level sponsor for the event. A $500 Sponsorship was made using the Carbon Reduction Fund.
* District Energy Study
Staff is still working with Ever Green Energy to discuss the feasibility and financial impact of the study. Final report and presentation will be forth coming
Alternative Options:
N/A
Financial Impacts: ...
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