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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 1999No Quorum Present Evanston Environment Board Thursday, December 16, 1999 7:30 PM Board Members Present: Tim Andruss Leroy Davis Lucy Elam Tom Fischl Judy Freitag Bob Gemmell Dan Hartnett Mardi Klevs Sharon Lieberman Gwendolyn Burton Poole Lynn Ruble David Schreier Matt TerMolen Staff Member: Linda Lutz, Ecology Center Coordinator Next Meeting The next meeting of the Ladd Arboretum Committee will be Thursday, January 20, 2000 at 7:30 PM at the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully submitted, Linda Lutz Ecology Center Coordinator Draft- Not Approved No Quorum Present Evanston Environment Board Thursday, November 18, 1999 7:30 PM Board Members Present, Board Members Absent: Staff Members Present: Others Present: Bob Gemmell Mardi Klevs Sharon Lieberman Gwendolyn Burton Poole Lynn Ruble Tim Andruss Leroy Davis Lucy Elam Tom Fischl Judy Freitag Dan Hartnett David Schreier Matt TerMolen Linda Lutz, Ecology Center Coordinator John Hays, Evanston resident Laura Siv'itz, Medill JoumSlism School A quorum was not present for the Environment Board. The following minutes reflect the discussion that took place. October 1999 Minutes Page one: change November 1 B, 1999 to October 21, 1999. Paragraph four, first line strike 'the" Page two: paragraph four. The last sentence should be prefaced by Someone else commented, that new regulations... Page three under Clean Air Resolution, the second sentence should read: The Board's general opinion is that what the Board endorses be accurate. Discussion: City Planning functions The Board initiated a request to Dennis Menno regarding questions that me Board had regarding issues and initiatives such as emAronmentaily sound building/development, energy conservation, and landscape requirements Specifically the Board wanted to know: How does the City respond to the Comprehensive General Plan') How does the City implement the Comprehensive General Plan? How are the goals and objectives of the plan met? Evaluated? Coal -burning power plant Resolution The Board reiterated that materials on the Coal burning power plant resolution should be sent to IEPA director Tom Skinner. The "resolution" was sent to the Mayor and she signed the Environment Board suggested resolution. Sustainable Practices Ms. Lieberman announced that a federal law had been passed regarding the use of integrated pest management. issues of notification, and the use of least toxic pesticides. A national school IPM advisory board has been established. The State of Illinois wanted the right to know clause where there would be notification if toxic pesticides used on grounds or buildings. Under this type of provision people who register at the school will be notified by phone when pesticides are used Illinois law requires the school to send out a notice at the beginning of the school year. This process will begin in September of 2000 and you will have to know that you can register. The Board endorsed the school protection act asking for stronger language in the act. Ms Lieberman can respond by e-mail with the Board's support of the initiative Tree Watch ComEd will be tree trimming in Evanston beginning in December and continuing through March. A private tree trimming service with be phase in over three years on parkway trees. A letter conceming trees in the Ladd Arboretum will be added to the December packet. 4* Leaf Blower Ordinance The Board noted that enforcement of the leaf blower ordinance saw a large change this year. A number of tickets were issued for leaf blower use during the Period when gas -powered backpack style leaf blowers are banned Mr. Gemmell will rewrite the leaf blower ordinance report for the December meeting_ Mr. Gemmell raised the additional issue of lots of leaves being swept into the streets primarily by landscapers. Perhaps landscape companies aren't informed that you can't put leaves in the street. If landscape services were required to register then information on leave practices could be disseminated. The City does have an ordinance that prohibits placing leaves in the streets The question of how a homeowner disposes of leaves from parkway trees that fall into the street remains an issue. Ms. Lieberman reported that when she attended the 3`d ward meeting there was some discussion about making the homeowner responsible for informing the landscape company of City of Evanston ordinances. EPA environmental group Ms. Klevs reported that a US Department of Energy person would be giving her a meeting agenda. From a meeting with City Manager, Roger Crum suggested or the EPA group work with the major energy consumers, especially the big institutions with the idea of reducing emissions and energy consumption. Ms. Klevs suggested that a Department of Energy person come to a Board meeting and explain DOE programs and resources, in particular the energy star programs. Other Business Aldermanic references Ms. Lutz reported that several references had been made to the Environment Board regarding the leaf blower ordinance and idling motors. Ms. Lutz will report that the leaf blower 1999 report will be discussed at the December meeting and forwarded to the Human Services Committee, The Board will need the respective ordinances, which Ms. Lutz will research and send out to the Board. It Board terms The Board noted that the December meeting would be the last meeting for Mr. Hartnett and Mr TerMolen who have both served on the Board for 8 years. Citizen Comment John Hays introduced himself to the Board as a member of the Cable Commission. and coordinates the AARP tax program. The concern that Mr. Hays addressed to the Board regarded a coffee roasting business. Mr. Hays told the Board that roasters are covered in the City code. Mr. Hays is concerned that if the present owners of Castle Coffee sell out will the new owners have to comply as strictly. Currently Castille Coffee complies with City codes. Mr. Hays told the Board that Castille Coffee had received the appropriate approval from the Zoning Board. Mr. Hays questioned whether the current k)cation. a B-2 district now does not include coffee roasters Mr. Hays has discussed this issue with Jim Wolinski, Director of Community Development regarding the issue. Mr. Lutz mentioned that Mr. Hays could contact the Cook County Environmental Control agency. Mr. Hays questioned whetherthe City is abdicating its responsibilities by not enforcing the City's Environment Code (section 4-10). Ms. Lutz inGude the code in the December packet Ms. Poole noted that there have been a number of letters and issues in the Evanston Review that highlight odors including Evanston Hospital and roofing fumes at the Post Office. Ms. Ruble mentioned that the State environmental code over lays the City codes. Ms. Klevs deals professionally with odor issues for the EPA specifically in the areas of whether there are air pollution effects. is the operation large enough to fall under regulation, and noted that there is no scientific monitoring equipment for odors It can be particularly problematic as a small amount can smell but not be toxic and is hard to measure scientifically. Municipalities depend on larger entities to enforce Generally the county must come out and inspect. Next Meeting The next meeting of the Ladd Arboretum Committee will be Thursday, November 18. 1999 at 7:30 PM at the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully submitted, Linda Lutz Ecology Center Coordinator Draft- Not Approved Evanstpn Environment Board Thursday, October 21, 1999 7:30 PM Board Members Present Board Members Absent Staff Members Present. Others Present: Discussion with Sharon Felgon Leroy Davis Bob Gemmell Dan Hartnett Mardi Klevs Sharon Lieberman Gwendolyn Burton Poole Matt TerMolen Tim Andruss Lucy Elam Judy Freitag Lynn Ruble David Schreier Karen Taira, Ecology Center Educator Sharon Feigon, Evanston Plan Commission Ms. Lieberman introduced Sharon Feigon from the Plan Commission. Ms. Feigon is a member of the Evanston Plan Commission, which is a citizen advisory board staffed by the City of Evanston Planning Department. Several questions posed to Ms. Feigon involved the Hill Development and whether energy efficiency or the use of environmentally friendly building materials was discussed. Ms. Feigon is new to the Plan Commission and did not think these issues were part of the Hill discussion. The CTA area was discussed and apparently the CTA will be fixing the area for multiple benefits. Ms. Feigon noted that her focus is on transportation within the Evanston. Transportation issues other than parking were not really addressed. A transportation committee will be formed with the RTA and City funds will be used to research and do data collection to assess the needs of the community. The study will help pay for the basic research There is not an established relationship with a CTA person. It would be nice to encourage bicycle use as Evanston has a high rate of ownership, however there is no one person dealing with the issue. The Interreligious Sustainability Circle has an interest in transportation. They are interested in planning a one -day program of closing downtown to vehicle traffic. The idea of trolleys was discussed noting that Niles has free trolleys that run all day. Mr. TerMolen asked whether any work is being tied into the transportation section of Northwestern. Ms. Feigon was not aware of any connection. Ozone emissions during the time period from 1994 — 1999 in Evanston only exceeded standards in two of the years. However, the ozone numbers are really high. New regulations should lower those standards. Being located along the lakefront affects ozone production. Ms. Klevs noted that emissions from our area end up in the Kenosha area. It takes 3 hours for ozone to form. Conditions come to our area from the southwest. New regulations may not affect the ozone numbers as much as officials claim. Ms. Lieberman asked that the Board be informed about action plans regarding transportation; the Board would like to endorse environmentally oriented initiatives. Ms. Feigon indicated that Dennis Marino be contacted regarding environmentally oriented initiatives that could be introduced prior to a building or green space being changed or developed. The Board explained that it would like to see the planning process be more long term in order to incorporate environmental initiatives into the planning and construction processes. The Board could hold hearings as it did when the gypsy moth issue first developed in Evanston. Mr. Hartnett noted that the Board is advisory and makes recommendations. City Council retains authority over the issues reviewed by the Board. Ms. Lieberman noted that sustainability issues should go with zoning processes as the Environment Board proposed several years ago. Mr. Hartnett recalled that the CTA tree issue came to the Environment Board and ComEd received unfavorable publicity. The CTA didn't do anything. The Plan Commission or the Planning Department could address this type of issue. Ms. Klevs noted that the City should take a proactive approach to the CTA to get DOT money. Funds could cover the entire plantings for the CTA. Clean Air Resolution The Board discussed the proposed Clean Air Resolution. Several questions regarding numbers and causality were raised. The Board's general opinion is that it is important what the Board endorses be accurate. The general consensus was that older plants are not retrofitted with the technology that %VW allow them to meet stepped up air quality requirements. The legislature determines the current requirements: so either the plants comply or they don`t_ U the older plants meet standards, they comply. Ms. Klevs indicated that perhaps the older plants are held to different standards. The Board clarified what they had agreed to and Board members unanimously supported the resolution. Ms. Klevs requested that a copy go to Tom Skinner, Director of the IEPA. The resolution will be forwarded to Mayor Morton. September Minutes The minutes of the September Board meeting were accepted with corrections made to the second paragraph on page two. Reports Ms. Klevs will call the Planning Department to invite a staff member to come to the November meeting of the Environment Board Recent reports on leaf blower compliance were discussed with positive indication of enforcement. The Board planned to send a thank you letter to Commander Galivan from the Police Department for attending the July Board meeting; a copy will be sent to Chief Kaminski. The closing will read 'for the Evanston Environment Board.' Ms. Klevs reported that the USEPA met with City Manager, Roger Crum. A member of the USEPA Energy Star program will be contacted about appearing at the December meeting. Next Meeting The next meeting of the Ladd Arboretum Committee will be Thursday, November November 18, 1999 at 7:30 PM at the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully submitted, Linda Lutz Ecology Center Coordinator }r it Evanston Environment Board Minutes September 16, 1999 P►stt-roc ARRMng Members present: Tim Andruss, LeRoy Davis, Dan Hartnett, Mardi K 9M Sharon Lieberman, Lyn Ruble, Matt TerMolen Members Absent: Lucy Elam, Tom Fischl, Judy Freitag, Bob Gemmell Others Present: Carol Kerrs David Kraft Staff Present: Linda Lutz Ecology Center staff Introduction The Board welcomed new member Lyn Ruble and introduced themselves. Clean Air Resolution The Board welcomed Ms. Kerrs and Mr. Kraft who spoke on a municipal resolution being circulated by the Illinois Environmental Council {IEC}. The IEC is asking municipalities to pass a grass roots resolution that will ask the State of Illinois to require that all 24 coal burning power plants be brought up to current air quality standards with necessary technology. Mr. Kraft and Ms. Kerrs would like to see the Environment Board recommend that the Mayor sign a resolution regarding coal burning power plants coming into compliance with current technology. Ms. Kerrs is an Evanston resident and noted that coal plants contribute significantly to air pollution in Illinois, in fact the coal plants are the biggest single source of pollution. So far, communities representing 1.3 million people have passed similar municipal resolutions. The resolution is intended to be presented to the Governor. In Illinois regulations of coal burning power plants are achieved through legislation. legislative initiatives to bring older coal buming power plants up to the standards requested in the resolution was not passed in the spring legislative term. The IEC is now taking the tack of the municipal resolution to affect legislation. Mr. Kraft noted that utilities burning coal have more pollution. Utilities are selling power plants as a result of de -regulation. Mr. Kraft's goal is to get Illinois to come into compliance with standards. He noted that the profits on the sale of power plants are very high and felt that some of the profits should be cycled back into Gean air initiatives. Mr. Kraft would like to see ComEd establish a fund with profits of the sale to be put back into clean air solutions. He estimated that the book value of the upcoming ComEd sale is 1.2 billion and the sale pnce is 4.6 billion. Mr. Kraft notified that there are non -attainment areas in Illinois. Mr. Hartnett noted that r s there could be a due process clause that may affect utilities that hive •grandfadmmed status. Ms. Klevs added that with the new USEPA rules, facilmas are not always grandfathered and are held in compliance with new standards Ms. Klevs said that there is a distinction between requiring profits to be used to Wgxvm technology versus having the new owner pays. Mr. Kraft noted that the IEC's goal is to have 2 million people represented in municipal resolutions by the fall legislative session. Mr. Kraft noted that the resolution is an advisory recommendation. Mr. Kraft did not see a down side to passing the resaktion. The Board noted that they were somewhat skeptical regarding the numbers represented in the sample resolution. The general wording of the paragraphs that did not contain numbers did not pose an initial problem for the Board. Mr. Andress noted that the resolution did not appear any less substantial without the numbers. Ms. Lieberman said that ultimately the Board is advising the mayor. Ms. Klevs recused herself on any decision regarding the resolution. Ms. Lutz will e-mail board members with a draft resolution; comments on the resolution can be sent to Ms. Lieberman. Sustainable Practices Committee Ms. Lieberman noted that the legislature has passed two bills that require schools to implement Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Parents must be notified of outside chemical use and spraying on school grounds. Ms. Lieberman asked the Board for permission to make a presentation on behalf of the Environment Board regarding the two bills to the School Boards of both District 065 and #202. The Board endorsed Ms. Lieberman 's presentations to both school districts. The federal government is considering a School Environmental Protection Act that has been introduced in the US Senate. This is similar to the new state regulations. It defines IPM issues, requires staff receive advice on use, and requires pre -notification. Ms. Lieberman plans to write a letter to the US Senate on the issue. Comprehensive General Plan Ms. Kelps asked questions on how construction work, such as the new Hill project, implements environmental issues as outlined in the comprehensive general plan. The Board reviewed this issues of the comprehensive general plan and requested that Ms. Lutz invite a member of the Plan Commission to speak with the Board at the October meeting. Environment Board Survey Ms. Lieberman noted that the Board received one response so far. Leaf Blower Report Ms. Lieberman had received information that when a citizen calls the police and is able to give the police the name of the company, their vehicle license plate number and other information that would be effective for finding the company, the police will send a letter to the •affender'. Ms. Lieberman will be writing Police Chief Kaminski to thank the police for the increased enforcement of the leaf blower ordinance. Ms. Lutz has received about a dozen notices of tickets issued in September for leaf blower ordinance violations. Tree watch: No Report Community Meetings: No Report Evanston Hospital: Odor issues The Board noted that the City of Evanston indicated that some of the complaints regarding the smell at Evanston Hospital were determined to be skunk spray. Ms. Klevs notes that the county has been out several times to Evanston Hospital and the hospital is in compliance. Ms. Klevs will be an inspector for the next call on Evanston Hospital. Ms. Klevs noted that summer inversions accentuate nighttime odors and that most'bad burning' is done at night. Other Business The Board requested information on drop off recycling. Ms. Lutz will follow up. Next Meeting The next meeting of the Environment Board will be Thursday, October 21 st, at 7:30 PM in room 3650 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully submitted by LINDA LUTZ t Evanston Environment Board Minutes July 15, 1999 Ofvft-Not A22W24 Members Present: Bob Gemmel(, Dan Hartnett, Sharon Lieberman, Members Absent: Tim Andruss, LeRoy Davis, Lucy Elam, Tom Fischl, Judy Freitag, Matt Ter Molen Others Present Mardi Kievs Bob Brodsky Fred Wittenberg Staff Present: Tom Gallivan. Police Commander Karen Taira, Ecology Center staff A quorum of the Board was not present. The following minutes reflect the discussion that occurred. Leaf Blower Report General discussion noted that people working out of their homes objected to the constant noise generated by leaf blowers. The Board reported that of the 22 communities that have a leaf blower ordinance, 16 use police for enforcement. Currently Evanston's leaf blower ordinance is in the City code as part of the noise ordinance. The City has a flyer that outlines the current leaf blower regulations. The Board discussed the issue of responsibility of the homeowner to educate the company they chose for their lawn care service. Commander Gallivan noted that calls about leaf blowers have low priority. If the police can get a license plate number, the Police Chief writes the owner of the vehicle a letter. The group discussed whether police on patrol will enforce violations without a call from citizens. Often citizens call in a violation and will not leave their name_ Several suggestions from the Board for better enforcement included- 4 Have citizens issue tickets like handicap parking program • Landscape companies should be licensed ♦ To what extent can we put the burden of responsibility on the homeowner (such as in Skokie) ♦ Develop another pamphlet specifically for the homeowner to develop community awareness, increase people's concern about all aspects of lawncare services • City needs an environmental officer to deal with quality of life issues; would not be law officer but could have ticketing ability with the police as backup ♦ Perhaps grant funding would be available for the position especially if the * I environmental officer had responsibility for more major industrial issues Mr. Hartnett and Mr. Gemmell commented that Evanston is over regulated and urcier enforced. The leaf blower ordinance is not working; the city council passed the ordinance knowing that enforcement would be a low priority. Perhaps the Council; should know that the ordinance just doesn't seem to work in its present form, has no enforcement, and should be let go. Discussion will continue at the next meeting regarding whether the Board will continue to follow up on this issue. Tree Watch Ms. Lieberman reported that she had read in the paper an agreement to do only spot cutting or cutting in a "V". The Board will continue to follow up on this issue. Ms. Lieberman will contact Alderman Wynne on her July public meeting. Ms. Lieberman had given handouts for the meeting. Other Business Ms. Klevs reported that the USEPA in Chicago has 15 employees who live in Evanston that have been meeting and discussing projects that could be done in Evanston. Some issues being discussed are sustainable development. sharing professional expertise concerning energy efficiency, and trying to build partnerships in the 'Energy Star" program. Ms. Klevs queried the Board on whether this would be helpful and does it fit into the work of the Board. The Board discussed working with City Council and the Alderman. It would be good to have another group supporting the same purpose as the Environment Board which may then have a greater impact. The USEPA usually has more of a relationship with planning staff not politicians. Next Meeting The next meeting of the Environment Board will be Thursday, September 16th, at 7:30 PM in room 3650 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully submitted by LINDA LUTZ a f Evanston Environment Board Minutes June 17, 1999 Draft -Not Aamyed Members Present: Tim Andruss, Tom Fischl, Judy Freitag, Bob Gemmefl, Sharon Lieberman, Members Absent: LeRoy Davis, Lucy Elam, Dan Hartnett, Matt Ter Moien Others Present: Mardi Klevs Staff Present: Linda Lutz, Ecology Center Coordinator Ms. Lieberman welcomed Mardi Klevs and reviewed her background. Ms. Klevs has submitted an application to be on the Environment Board. May Minutes The Board approved the May 20, 1999 minutes of the Environment Board with the following correction: Under sustainable practices committee the third line changed from to school grounds to "to children walking to school." Partners for Clean Air Ms. Freitag reported that she and Ms. Elam did the annual awareness training for the Parks/Forestry Division earlier in the day. The Parks/Forestry employees were responsive and work tasks are changed when possible on ozone action days. Copies of the 10 tips for home and work were distributed as well as book marks, key chains. pencils, and card holders. The ozone action day flags that were purchased several years ago are in the Parks/Forestry offices. Sustainable Practices Committee Ms. Lieberman reported that she attended a committee meeting of the Evanston Sustainability circle with several in attendance. The group seemed to be interested in developing a butterfly garden area with natural plantings as one of nine action items they have developed. An additional area that the group was interested in was the reduction in the use of herbicides and pesticides Peter Jans Golf Course Mr. Fischl reported that the Peter Jans course does some of the same environmental practices as the Wilmette Golf Course especially concerning pesticide and herbicide issues. The goals as noted in the Audubon program are improvement of habitat and increasing the richness of wildlife. At Peter Jens there is not an emphasis on non - golfers walking the course. Peter Jans has added a lot of trees and done a signWk=t amount of replanting and improvements over the last 10 years. Mr. Fischl will check to see if there is anything written down on what is happening in terms of landscape management of the Peter Jans course. Leaf Blower Ms. Lieberman reported 2 incidents of the ordinance violation. She noted that some lawn service personnel think that the leaf bknver ordinance will put them out of business. The Board discussed the difference in "complaints" vs. ordinance violation; reporting a leaf blower in use in an ordinance violation. There have been questions on the effectiveness of the enforcement of leaf blower use during the times that use of the blowers is prohibited. The Board discussed other ways to enforce the ordinance; perhaps other City employees such as inspection personnel can report violations. Mr. Fischl volunteered to ask Police Chief Frank Kaminiski to the July meeting of the Board to discuss enforcement issues. Downtown Shopping Issues Mr. Fischl discussed with the Board concerns of the downtown merchants regarding customer parking availability. Shoppers seem to be leaving Evanston and many merchants report their worst business in a long time. Concerns included the lack of available space in parking garages for business employees. When employees can't park in garages they park on the streets taking parking spaces that customers generally use. Proposed new construction should alleviate merchant parking on the streets. Community meetings Mr. Gemmell expressed interest in attending the ward meeting at St. Lukes church on Saturday, July 10, at 9:30 AM to speak briefly on the Environment Board and issues that the community would like to see the Board pursue. Mr. Fischl will be attending the June 24th meeting of the Nichols Neighbors and will speak on behalf of the Board. Trees Mr. Andress distributed information from the Illinois Natural History Survey on the Asian Long -homed Beetle. He will investigate pricing information on the material. Mr. Andruss suggested that perhaps the Board could use some of its annual financial .! allotment for educational material. The southwest Evanston area could be a target area for informational literature. The education process might even attract partners such as Target. Jewel, and/or Best Buy. Evanston Comprehensive Plan Ms. Klevs questioned the type of practices the City of Evanston uses regarding environmental issues and promoting green practices. The Board discussed the Comprehensive Plan for Evanston done by the Planning Department. Ms. Lutz will see that Ms. Klevs receives a copy. August Meeting The Board agreed not to hold an August meeting. Next Meeting The next meeting of the Environment Board will be Thursday, July 15th, at 7:30 PM in room 3650 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully submitted by LINDA LUTZ ON; Evanston Environment Board tila May 20, 1999 Members Present: Tim Andrus Bob Gemnell. Dan Hartnett, Sharon Lieberman, Matt TerMolen Members Absent: Staff Present: Visitors: Sub -Committee Reports LeRoy Davis. Lucy Elam, Tom Flschl, Judy FrMtcxg Linda Lutz Mardi Klevs Partners for Clean Air Ms. Lleberman reviewed the Partners for Clean Air program and the yearfy awareness trnining for the PciftlForm- try DMdon. This year's training should take pierce In June. Tree Watch Mr. Hartnett mentioned that he would like to photograph the Skokie Swill right of way, T Ns area could be used as a hails for ImprovIM other rkjht of wcr/ areas. He wlfl determine where trees are located, information gathered can be used to education on effective power line vegetation. Charcoal Bins Mr. TerMolen questioned whether the area from Dempster to Lee Street Beach would be having charcoal bins and receptacles. Mr. Lutz wit check out the situation with Mr. D'Agosilno and report back to the Board. CW 64A,uw Ua 0-0160 5c� Sustainable Practi a Committee Ms. Lieberman noted t at on May 3rd she reported the lfis Johnson company was spray( parkway trees using large hoses. The drift from the spraying was close to hod grounds. Mr. D'Agostino sx-spected that they were spraying for elm eeties. He will revle:-i the ordinance and check to see If a permit Is required, as well as condit(oris such as low wlnd speed, and whether people could be walldng In the area at or near the time of spraying. Ms. Lieberman discussed a forum held in Highiand Park sponsored by the League of Women Voters on Sustainabillty with Scott Bernstein, a member of the President's Council on Sustainahility. Ms. Lieberman c nntacted Judy 1 Eisass to determine It the Evanston League of Women vohw's would be Interested In a similar forum. Ms. Lieberman will continue k) Check on other organizations that might be Interested In this type of fonun as well as what the level of Interest would be. Co-sponsors could Include rime Evanston Environmental Association, and Ecology Center. the faun) coLdd be presented In Spring 20M. Ms. Lieberman reported that inquiry cards were passed out at the Environmental Fair at the Evanston Library. Ms. Lutz wry send more copies of the post card to the Library over the next several months. Ms. Lieberman talked with Alderman Wynne about cMerx*g her June town meeting. Mr. Gemmell expressed interest In going to the meeting and rP-SAntir►c3 the Bocnd'z intent in .0lciting Information from on environmental iwues that they would like to see the Board investigate. Mr. T6ri den will speak with Alderman Moran on the same sutiect. Ms. Lieberman reported that IPM grants of S5,000 are ava cable to schools and other agencies to institute rind IPM program. Rec�3nt kjawation requires that schools have an IPM program. Ms. Lieberman wffl contact both school districts regarding the new legislation on betKki of the Beard. Air pollution regulations regarding diesel truck emissions recently passed In the legislature for non -attainment areas such as the metropolitan Chicago area. The Board Inquired what Is reviewed during the taxi inspections; Ms. Lutz wNl find out. The Board discussed possible City policies on truck emLedons locally such as requiring well tuned up vehicles doing contractual work for the City such as water and sewer work. Least Blowers Ms. Lieberman gave a history of the Environmental Board's involvement with the lenf hAnwer Lssue. Mr. Gemmell reviewed data tribie:5 from 1997 and 1998. The 1997 tables included calls In March wN..ae the 1998 tables did not. No tickets for vlo;aflons were Issued In 1998. Mt. Gerrdrnell gave members copies of the narrative report and asked the Board to study the recommendations. The Board will review and discuss in June and revise the document before submitting to the City Council. The Board discussed submitting 3-4 articles on environmental issues. The Ion f blower report could he sent out to the Evanston Revfew followed a month or so later by the ozone article. The Board discussed Ms. Efam's article and made several suggestions. Ms. Lutz will add suggestions. The Board liked receiving Infommation through e- a mail. drone Is a tough regional Issue; particulate matter comes to the Chicvgo area and WISConsln from the "Aheot and southwest Conditions are right for ozone formction; the regional area Is a non - attainment area. The Beard discussed whether irklual acthons nee a difference with such a masslve problem. Ctilzens can add momentum by �J.-L . tng the problem with government agencies who in tum may be more forceful in rogtkkikwvs nncf enforcement. Mr. TerMolen will talk to the Evanston review and Roundtable regarding a pros release and periodic c;overoge m part of public: service announcements. ECTV could also be approached for coverage. Next Meeting The next meeting of the Evanston Environment Board wilt be Thursday, June 3 7th In room 3650 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfuly submitted Linda Lutz Evanston Environment Board Minutes April 15, 1999 Draft —Not AegMMg Members Present: Tom Fischl, Bob Gemmefl, Dan Hartnett. Sharon Lieberman, Matt Termolen Members Absent: Tim Andruss, Leroy Davis, Judy Freitag, Lucy Elam. Others Present: Steve Perkins Staff Present: Linda Lutz, Ecology Center Coordinator Interrellglous Sustainability Project Steve Perkins, Associate Director for The Center for Neighborhood Technology, explained his thinking on creating a be with sustainability and religion. The Interrefigious Sustainability Project is the result of a collaboration among people of different religious perspectives to create a vision for a sustainable Chicago metropolitan region. The Project has printed a document for public distribution call One Creation. One People, One Place, that explains how to engage religious congregations in action oriented activities that promote a sustainability philosophy. Mr. Perkins explained that the Project is breaking a new frontier and Evanston is a pilot site, or circle. There are two additional circles in the area; one in Oak Park, and one in western Cook County. The goal of the project is to have 30 circles in the Chicago area. In Evanston 30 people from a dozen religions, have attended monthly two hour meetings where there is a speaker for one hour and facilitated discussion for one hour. Twice a year the group is doing habitat work combined with religious reflection on what habitat restoration means. The "circle" moves back to the congregation and tries to make changes in the congregation. Desired actions from congregations would include energy efficiency, pesticide reduction, planting butterfly gardens, public ministry, and reduced use of toxins. Mr. Perkins explained that since the Project is new he has no idea where it will go; especially as individual congregations personalize the project. For Evanston the goal is to determine what kind of Evanston is envisioned for 2030. The Evanston circle is developing their notions and figuring our how to get there. The goal is to avoid politics and keep the project very open ended. Mr. Perkins expressed interest in an ongoing dialogue with the Environment Board as a resource that congregations can tap into, especially with youth. The first work project for the Evanston circle is habitat restoration set for April 24-25. The group also has a web site, The Board thanked Mr. Perkins for � ,, to the meeting. Partners for Clean Air Ms. Lutz reported that Ms. Elam will be e-n%ailing an ozone article to Board members. Partners for Clean Air training is slated for 7-00 AM on May 27th with the Parks/Forestry Division. Sustainable Practices Committee The Board discussed the Peter Jans Golf Course. Mr. Fischl explained that the manager of the Wilmette Gotf Course (which is working towards the Audubon certification) is a member of the Peter Jans Board. Mr. Fischl indicated that many of the positive environmental practices that VYimette uses are also being initiated at Peter Jans. The fact that the land is owned by the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District is problematic. Leaf Blowers Mr. Gemmell has begun drafting a report on the leaf blower ordinance. Mr. Gemmell reviewed the report dated October 1997 and confirmed that the Board wanted to issue a report on year two of the ordinance. He will include data on the second year and mention the broader issue of noise. Additionally he'll suggest how enforcement possibilities can be expanded (park rangers, parking enforcement, etc.) as well as focusing on community education. Ms. Lutz will check on the cost of including the leaf blower brochure In the Arts and Recreation magazine. Copies have been sent to the community centers and libraries. Additionally they will be sent to Neighborhood groups and put on digital Evanston. Community Environmental Issues Ms. Lieberman contacted Alderman Wynne and will participate in her town meeting in mid -June at St. Luke's Church. Mr. Fischl will contact the Nichols Neighbors to see if a Board member can attend their meeting and gather information on the environmental issues that interest people. Ms. Lieberman will also contact Alderman Feldman. The Board discussed what kind of agenda the Environment Board should be following for the public meetings. It was agreed that a review of past issues and accomplishments should be presented acknowledging that some of the Environment's Board work has come directly from the City Council while other issues are the result of individual and/or citizen interest. The goal of the meetings should be to find out what concerns people have, what issues the public would like to see the Environment Board work on, etc. The Board will work on an agenda at the May meeting. Other Business Ms. Lutz said that there would be a representative at the Earth Fair at the Library on Sunday April, 25. Ms. Lutz and Ms. Lieberman will work out a comment card to be passed out for people to record environment issues that concern them. Ms. Lieberman noted that she had received a complaint about micro wave towers. The Board discussed the MWRD lease, issues with moving the current locks, status of the canal, and regulation issues. Canoe Trip The Board will be viewing the North Shore Channel by canoe on Saturday, June 28th at 2:00 PM. Next Meeting The next meeting of the Environment Board will be Thursday, May 20th, at 7:30 PM fin room 3650 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully submitted by UNDA LUTZ f Evanston Environment Board Minutes March 19, 1999 Draft -Not AQoroved Members Present: Leroy Davis. Tom Fischl, Judy Freitag, Bob GemmelL Sharon Lieberman. Members Absent: Tim Andruss, Lucy Elam,Bob Gemmell, Ralph Hovnaruarn, Matt Ter Molen Others Present: John Kestler Staff Present: Linda Lutz, Ecology Center Coordinator The Board welcomed Tom Fischi recently appointed to the Environment Board. The Board introduced themselves to Mr. Fischl. Mr. Fischl is an active member of the Peter Jans Community Golf Course Board and a business owner in Evanston. Partners for Clean Air Ms. Freitag reported that Ms. Elam is drafting an article on ozone. Ms. Lutz will talk to Paul D'Agostino of the ParkstForestry Division to see if his employees should have a training session on Partners for Clean Air for this year. Mr. Gemmell discussed the community based design program for engineering students at Northwestern. Teams of two students work with community based organizations on environmental issues and solutions. Several projects have focused on clean air and the Paxton landfill. Citizens for Public Interest and the Chicago Legal Clinic help with finding projects for the students. The student groups have largely served as interpreters of the formal reports and what the reports mean to the community. Leaf Blowers Mr. Gemmell had nothing to report. He will update the report based on the previous information received from the Police Department. The 1999 leaf blower brochure should be ready in April. The Board discussed several issues that would help with compliance: home owners need to be more responsible regarding the services they employ, increased enforcement, and licensing lawn care services. The Board discussed having a public forum where issues associated with the ordinance and lawn care services can be presented, such as, leaf blower noise, dumping of leaves, and enforcement. Mr. Gemmell additionally suggested that the Board put the old issues on hold and see what's new in the community regarding environmental issues. Open meetings could provide a forum for the Board to explain the issues the Environment Board is working on, as well as determining the environmental issues that citizens are concerned aboci- Ar Ms. Lieberman will contact Alderman Wynne to see if the Board could present the public forum as part of another public meeting. Mr. Gemmell additionally suggested a questionnaire as another vehicle for gathering people's opinions on environmental issues. Ms. Lieberman added that the community could also better understand what the Environment Board does and what it does not do. If certain issues, such as leaf blower ordinance enforcement. were shown as important to the community, enforcement polices could change. Several ideas such as using Parts Rangers and Parking Enforcement personnel to help with leaf blower enforcement and community education could be effective. Sustainable Practices Committee Ms. Freitag will be calling Senator Berman regarding pesticides in public schools. Mr. Fischl noted that he is a member of the Peter Jans Golf Course Board and would be more than willing to help with the Audubon Golf Course program. Ms. Lieberman will forward information to Mr Fischl on the program. Streets and Sanitation Quarterly Report The Board noted that disposal costs should go down as more items are recycled with the new recycling program Evanston Community Garden Ms. Lieberman noted that she had received a complaint about rodents in the community gardens at James Park. Ms. Lutz reported to the Board that the Health Department is aware of the issue and is working on it. Rodents were a problem in the recycling center: with the closure of the recycling center, the rodent population may diminish. Some gardeners are being asked to change their garden practices to reduce the attractiveness of particular compost areas to rodents. Potholes Ms. Lutz reported on the 3 different types of material used to patch potholes. Cold patch is used when the temperature is below 40 degrees. Asphalt producers are in production from April to November and the material needs to be applied while Its warm. A rolled asphalt mixture is used in situations outside these 2 conditions. Canoe Trip The Board discussed a trip on the North Shore Channel. Ms. Lutz offered the Ecology Center canoes. Several available dates include May 22, May 29, May 30, after 4:30 PM The Board will finalize plans at the next meeting. Next Meeting The next meeting of the Environment Board will be Thursday, April 45th, at 7:30 PM in room 3650 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully submitted by UNDA LUTZ Evanston Environment Board Minutes February 18, 1999 Draft -Not Aocro"d Members Present: Tim Andruss. Leroy Davis, Lucy Elam, Judy Freitag, Dan Hartnett, Sharon Lieberman, Matt TerMolen Members Absent: Bob Gemmell. Ralph Hovanian Others Present Matt Hammer Elisabeth Krebs, Medill Student Staff Present;: Paul D'Agostino, Superintendent Parks/Forestry Linda Lutz, Ecology Center Coordinator The Board welcomed Leroy Davis recently appointed to the Environment Board. The Board introduced themsehres to Mr. Davis. Mr. Davis has been a state inspector for air quality for a number of years. Board Vacancy Ms. Lieberman announced that Ms. Scheinker had resigned from the Board. She has taken a new job that does not allow for Board participation. Charcoal Waste Ms. Lieberman introduced Mr. D'Agostino and invited him to speak with the Board on charcoal waste receptacles and the tree trimming program. Mr. D'Agostino said more charcoal receptacles will be installed at the lake front this spring. Some residents thought that the crushed stone surrounding the areas was too bright and that will be addressed in the new sites. Approximately 6 areas will be installed from Dempster to Sheridan Square, as well as Twiggs and Harbert Parks. Some will be installed in less formal picnic areas as well as free standing ones. Generally the charcoal waste is cleaned once a month in the picnic areas. The residue collected is spread on the compost area at James Park. Charcoal receptacles will be stenciled with instructions (including Spanish and Polish) explaining how to use the receptacle. The Board suggested posting notices on bulletin boards as well as in a brochure that encourages the use of the charcoal receptacles. Perhaps a packet of Environment Board brochures could be available at the Beach office run by the Recreation Division. The Board thanked Mr. D'Agostino for his efforts with the charcoal receptacles. i Tree Trimming Mr. D'Agostino reviewed the history of Evanston's tree program During the 1980's a computerized inventory of trees was made. At that time the Forestry crews shifted their focus from doing area trimming (5,000 trees a year) to response to citizens calls for trimming (1200- 1500 a year). Three years ago the stack of requests was 3 to 4 years old. In an effort to get back on schedule they are converting back to area trimming. Forestry has 13 full time employees. From June to September all employees are involved in removing diseased elms and planting new trees. This time framework leaves 2 - 3 months to trim trees. Currently past requests have been reviewed and prioritized by blocks. No new requests are being taken at this time. Mr. D'Agostino explained that the proposed budget which has not been finalized will add 2 employees over the next three years for a total of 6 new employees. These employees will trim trees 12 months a year. In year one, $600,000 will be spent on 2 employees, a chipper, and a bucket truck, plus $240.000 to hire a contractor to assist in trimming. Costs will average $150 to $180 per tree. In 5 - 6 years the tree trimming should be caught up and on a reasonable cycle. The importance of a short trimming cycle is: trees are healthier, trees can withstand severe storms better, storm damage is reduced, overtime involved with storm damage is reduced, healthier trees are worth more money to individual property owners, and public safety is improved so stop lights and stop signs are not covered by tree branches. For the most part most trees can be trimmed any time of the year. Oaks and elms are an exception and can not be trimmed when leafed out as insects are attracted to fresh cuts on wood. The tree inventory will be updated. A 6 inch tree 15 years ago is probably a 12 inch tree now. Trees on public property will be inventoried by a contractor that uses hand held computers and can do the 30,000 parkway trees in 2 weeks. Information is then down loaded into the City's computer system_ If the trimming cycle is shortened to 5 - 6 years then trees in the parks can be trimmed also ( 10,000 more trees). Trees are selected for each block depending on soil samples, width of the parkways, and site lines of commercial buildings. Different species are assigned to different blocks on the theory that some kind of canopy will develop on each block. The look will vary depending on the species. Tress are being selected on the basis of location, especially where there are power lines. Saucer Magnolias, and Japanese Tree Lilacs are being used where a low growing tree is needed. Parkway replacement trees are 2 'lz to 3 inch caliper trees unless the homeowner pays $100 and then a 3 '/: to 4 inch tree is planted. Elms are hard to replace. The Dutch Elm disease is transmitted via root grafts undeir the ground especially is there is less that 40 feet between trees. If there is rapid defoliation or more than 10% of the tree is infected, the tree must be removed in 30 days. The faster the tree is removed, the better chance there is that the disease won't travel to the next tree. Regarding gypsy moths, Mr. D'Agostino said he has been receiving information from the State. No spraying is planned for Evanston this year. The closest areas to be sprayed are Wheeling and Crystal Lake. Moth counts are increasing. Forestry crews are trained and know what to look for. There is no sign of the Asian Longhorn beetle in Evanston. Of the 2 dozen "sightings most were box elder bugs. Mr. D'Agostino is not currently working with Commonwealth Edison on tree trimming as the utility is not trimming in Evanston right now. The City is working on a new franchise agreement and tree trimming is being discussed as part of the agreement. Mr. D'Agostino now has jurisdiction for the Union Pacific right away but has no relationship with the CTA which has no tree trimming policy. Once the City improves an area the City has to maintain it; this is the case with the Union Pacific area. Although their is no consistent approach to rights -of -way, the Parks/Forestry division is gradually improving rights of way. The east end of the Ladd Arboretum will be the site of a 2 year deep tunnel project. Seventeen trees were transplanted to adjacent parks in December. Approximately 17 additional trees will be cut to provide a staging area for the deep tunnel project. The area will be restored in 2 years. Environment Board Minutes There were no minutes from the January 1999 meeting as a quorum was not present. City Council Minutes The Board discussed the City Council minutes that are in each Board packet. Mr. Andruss and Ms. Elam do not want to receive minutes. Minutes should be sent to Ms. Lieberman, Mr. Hartnett, Mr. Termolen, and Ms. Freitag. Partners for Clean Air Ms. Elam is drafting an article on ozone for the March meeting. Sustainable Practices Committee Mr. Andruss has walked the Peter Jans course. He plans to do the same with the Wilmette course that is working towards Audubon certification. Issues Mr. Andruss wants to address include environmental planning, habitat development, IPM, water conservation, outreach and education. Ms. Lieberman reviewed an article in the Evanston Review on a local group that focuses on inter religious sustainability. Ms. Lieberman will invite a representative of the group to talk with the Board. The Board discussed air quality and Mr. Davis explained that the federal government has implemented a plan to test diesels as well as cars with the new IM240 process. Federal highway dollars given to the states are predicated on having a vehicle testing program. The new testing program does take longer than the old one. Tree Watch Mr. Hartnett volunteered to head up the Board's 'tree watch' program. As discussed for the last few years, there is a need for a consistent approach, especially to tree trimming. Salt Use The Board asked Ms. Lutz to gather information on salt use in Evanston. Sodium chloride costs $30 a ton, while calcium chloride costs $600 a ton. A true cost would include issues like potholes, pothole repair, tree damage, parkway damage, and other maintenance costs. The Board would like to know what type of asphalt is used in repairs and why some sections of road develop more potholes. Next Meeting The next meeting of the Environment Board will be Thursday, March 18th, at 7:30 PM in room 3650 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully submitted by LINDA LUTZ Evanston Environment Board Minutes January 21, 1999 Men*m Present: Tim Andruss, Sharon Lieberman, Matt TerMolen Members Absent: Leroy Davis, Lucy Elam, Judy Freitag, Bob Gemmell, Dam Hartnett, Ralph Hovanian, Bess Scheinker Others Present: Matt Hammer Staff Present: !Caren Taira, Environmental Educator, Ecology Center A quorum was not present; the following represents the Board discussion. Charcoal Waste Charcoal Mr. TerMolen will revise the charcoal waste memorandum that will be sent to Paul D'Agostino to include a request to add charcoal waste receptacles to beaches south of Dempster Street. Public Hearing: Tree Trimming The Board noticed an article about tree -trimming in the Evanston Review. Current tree -trimming cycle seemed to indicate that trees were trimmed every 30 years instead of every 6 years. The Board would like more information on tree -trimming perhaps even a discussion with Paul D'Agostino on the subject. City of Evanston: Environmental Purchasing The Board is curious what products are used by the City? Is there a more environmental product available? How are decisions made within the City? Compost Odor An article in the Chicago Tribune discussed rules for odor suppression in compost piles. The Board would like a follow up on applications for Evanston. Next- Meeting The next meeting of the Environment Board will be Thursday, February 18th, at 7:30 PM in room 3650 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully submitted by LINDA LUTZ