Environmental Sustainability Board

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY BOARD Wednesday, February 4, 2026 Conference Room 201 Regular Session 6:30 PM SECOND FLOOR OF CITY HALL 7008 SOUTH RICE AVENUE BELLAIRE, TX 77401 Agenda Chair Giles Dunn Vice Chair Secretary Board Member Patricia Ritter Phil Robertson Eyitayo (Tayo) Aina Board Member Board Member Board Member Elena Diiorio Stephanie Goldfield Pernia Latif Board Member Board Member Michelle Mastin Vacancy City of Bellaire Texas Page 1 of 20 Agenda Environmental Sustainability Board February 4, 2026 REGULAR SESSION - 6:30 P.M. A. Call to Order and Announcement of a Quorum - Giles Dunn, Chair. B. Approval of Minutes: Consideration of and possible action regarding the approval of the minutes of the Regular Session of the Environmental Sustainability Board (ESB) held on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. 12_3_25 ESB Meeting Minutes C. Introduction of Visitors - Giles Dunn, Chair. D. Citizen Comments. Note: Citizen Comments are limited to up to three (3) minutes per person. E. Council Liaison Comments - Ross Gordon, Council Member. F. Public Works Update - Earl Kugelmann, Assistant Director of Public Works. G. Board Business: Discussion and possible action on the following topic(s): 1. Administrative/General Items of Business. a. ESB Ordinance b. ESB Vision c. Walkability - Motion to send to Council via Staff Liaison for February Strategic Planning Session Concept Overview - Walkability 2. Review and Comment from the ESB Subcommittees. a. The Natural World i. Subcommittee presents updates on their top three initiatives ii. Board feedback b. Trash, Recycling, and Resource Conservation i. Subcommittee presents updates on their top three initiatives ii. Board feedback City of Bellaire Texas Page 2 of 20 Agenda Environmental Sustainability Board February 4, 2026 c. Energy Infrastructure and Sustainability i. Subcommittee presents updates on their top three initiatives ii. Board feedback 2026_02_04 ESB Supporting Materials H. New Business: Any ESB Member who wishes to bring New Business to the attention of the ESB shall do so now. Note: Consideration of New Business shall be for the limited purpose of determining whether the matter is appropriate for inclusion on a future Agenda of the ESB or for referral to staff for investigation. I. Adjournment. Next Meeting: Regular Session, Wednesday, March 4, 2026. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), requests for accommodations, interpretive services, or other special arrangements can be provided to assist with your participation in this public meeting. Please contact the City of Bellaire's ADA Coordinator, Alison Ford, at (713) 662-8257 or by email at aford@bellairetx.gov at least 48 hours prior to the meeting so that reasonable accommodations can be made. The City Hall is wheelchair accessible, and accessible parking spaces are available in the City Hall parking lot. City of Bellaire Texas Page 3 of 20  Environmental Sustainability Board (ESB) Board Meeting Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Meeting Minutes A. Call to Order and Announcement of a Quorum The regular Environmental Sustainability Board (ESB) was held via an in-person meeting with all participants at the City Hall (conference room 202). Giles Dunn, ESB Chair, called the meeting to order at 6:40 PM on Wednesday December 3, 2025. There was a quorum of members present. Voting ESB Members Present: Giles Dunn, Micki Mastin, Phil Robertson, Pernia Latif, Patricia King-Ritter, Elena Dilorio Absent: Phil Robertson, Eyitayo (Tayo) Aina Non-Voting ESB Members Present: Earl (CoB Director of Public Works), Jackie Georgiou (CoB Council Liaison) Votes Taken During Meeting Postpone meeting in January 2026 – approved 6-0 B. Approval of Minutes No minutes were submitted in time, will approve at the next meeting. C. Introduction of Visitors None D. Visitor Comments None E. Council Liaison Update Jackie shared that there are positive developments related to topics the ESB has raised in the pipeline. Jackie recently attended an NDC (Nature Discovery Center) meeting where partner organizations presented updates. She noted opportunities for ESB to collaborate more with partners to increase visibility and community engagement. Suggested activities: park walk-throughs, visiting the Discovery Center's exhibits, attending bird- watching groups, and learning about native vs. invasive species. Environmental Sustainability Board (ESB) – December 3, 2025 Minutes Page 1 of 4 Page 4 of 20 She encouraged breaking down “silos” so boards and partners understand one another’s work, especially around walkability and environmental initiatives F. City Services Update 1. Solid Waste & Recycling Statistics • Trash: 378.58 tons • Recycling: 67.94 tons (noted to be down from prior month) • Limbs/Green Waste: 45.77 tons 2. Fleet Issues • The department has recently operated with only two functional garbage trucks; two have been down. • Repairs have been ongoing: o One newer truck returned from repair but later presented issues related to acceleration and pressure, possibly a wiring harness or relay problem. o The older backup truck has been returned to service. • Crew members have been working 12–14 hour days due to equipment shortages. • Members shared resident observations, including bags being consolidated on lawns so crews could retrieve them later with a standard pickup truck. 3. Discussion: Trash Receptacles, Tippers, and Service Model Board members discussed: • Whether Bellaire should reconsider adopting standardized bins and automated tippers to reduce worker injuries, inefficiencies, and animal intrusion. • Past discussions around privatization of waste services and community preference for retaining city-run services. • Impact of budget constraints and aging equipment. • Desire to explore updated technologies (e.g., CNG or propane trucks). Staff and members acknowledged: • Introducing large receptacles would require community education and budget planning. • Any formal recommendations would need coordination with City administration. G. Board Business Discussion and possible action on the following topic(s): 1. Administrative / General Items of Business. a. Review of ESB Calendar (provided in agenda packet) Pumpkin Compost & Food Waste Program • Concerns were raised about incorrect addresses listed for pumpkin drop-off locations and mixed communication on availability. • A member noted that pumpkins had accumulated in undesignated areas. • The Nature Discovery Center location (for food waste) remains active. Environmental Sustainability Board (ESB) – December 3, 2025 Minutes Page 2 of 4 Page 5 of 20  • Board requested updated and accurate city web information. Holiday in the Park – December 4 • Members assumed recycling receptacles would be available but confirmed none are planned. • ESB will focus on education only at this event. • Member requested temporary use of clean curbside bins for the ESB booth; staff will check availability. Budget and Expense Reimbursement • ESB members have been personally covering event costs (e.g., pumpkin patch and upcoming Holiday in the Park candy). • Receipts totaling $18.82 were submitted by board members. • Council liaison advised that personal spending for city events is not appropriate, and expenses should be reimbursed through city channels. • Board will work with staff to determine proper administrative process. • Discussion included whether ESB needs a formal budget or can request funds ad hoc. General Discussion • Board noted: o Lack of recycling stations at city events. o Difficulty with contamination when bins are poorly marked. o Examples from West University and Austin where event waste-sorting is more established. Next Steps • Plan for Evelyn’s Park Earth Day Event and potential Earth Day efforts. • Consider field visit to West University to observe event waste-management practices. • Evaluate cost of “waste station” setups and identify appropriate city department for purchasing (likely Parks & Rec). Board Functioning & Morale The Chair shared concerns about board morale and effectiveness, noting several themes expressed by members over recent months: • Feeling unsupported by city departments • Lack of clarity around council guidance • Repeated requests for banners, budgets, or information going unaddressed • Difficulty coordinating with Parks • Overwhelming meeting load • Uncertainty about ESB’s role and impact The Chair stated the board is “in crisis” and outlined three steps to respond: • Step 1: Chair, Councilmember Jackie, Sharon, and staff will meet to address concerns, clarify expectations, and develop strategies for improvement. • Step 2: Evaluate changing frequency of meetings • Step 3: Let everyone come back in February refreshed (To be completed by Chair; discussion ongoing at time of minutes.) 2. Review and Comment from the ESB Subcommittees. See subcommittee information in agenda packet Environmental Sustainability Board (ESB) – December 3, 2025 Minutes Page 3 of 4 Page 6 of 20  H. New Business a. Any ESB Member who wishes to bring New Business to the attention of the ESB shall do so now. None I. Adjournment 1. Next meeting to be held on Wednesday February 4, 2026 2. Giles made a motion to adjourn 3. Meeting adjourned at 8:00pm Environmental Sustainability Board (ESB) – December 3, 2025 Minutes Page 4 of 4 Page 7 of 20 Concept Overview: “Bellaire Loops” Using existing sidewalks, the City could designate clearly marked walking loops of varying lengths supported by simple, family-friendly wayfinding elements. Illustrative examples (names flexible): • 3-mile loop: Red Loop (Cardinals) • 5–6 mile loop: Blue Loop (Blue Jays) • 1-mile family loop: Green Loop (Green Anoles) The concept prioritizes clarity, accessibility, safety, and community engagement rather than new construction. Strategic Opportunity The City’s recent acquisition of property adjacent to the Brays Bayou trail creates a timely opportunity to study: • Pedestrian connections to regional trails • Safety and accessibility improvements • Wayfinding strategies that enhance usability and resident awareness Planning Study Option The Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) offers subregional planning studies that could support this effort. A study would: • Evaluate feasibility and connectivity options • Identify best practices in pedestrian wayfinding • Develop cost estimates and phased implementation strategies • Inform future Council decisions with objective data Requested Council Direction Motion I move that the Environmental Sustainability Board recommend that City Council prioritize the creation, identification, and publicization of walkable routes throughout the City of Bellaire by incorporating walkability and pedestrian connectivity into the City’s Strategic Plan. This recommendation includes directing staff to evaluate opportunities to formalize and promote walking paths using existing sidewalks and infrastructure, as well as to explore the feasibility of connecting neighborhoods to the Braes Bayou Trail, including potential Page 8 of 20 connections made possible by the City’s recent acquisition of land adjacent to Braes Bayou. The intent of this motion is to enhance environmental sustainability, public health, and quality of life by encouraging safe, accessible, and connected walking options for residents of all ages. Page 9 of 20  Environmental Sustainability Board Meeting Materials City of Bellaire February 4, 2026 Page 10 of 20  City of Bellaire Resources Bellaire Collects OneBellaire Mobile App Stay informed and engaged in Bellaire Bellaire Collects allows you to find from anywhere! information quickly and conveniently for our recycling and trash collection Download the OneBellaire mobile app for programs. anytime, anywhere access to community news, information, and resources. By entering your address, Bellaire Collects Use it to: will let you know when your next collection • Find events & meeting information date is on the calendar. • Access the latest news & information from the City of Bellaire Using the Waste Wizard, you can also learn • Look up trash & recycling information how to dispose of certain items properly. • Pay bills online and much more! Download it now on any Android or Apple Download it now on any Android or Apple smartphone or tablet from Google Play or smartphone or tablet from Google Play or the Apple App Store. Search for Bellaire the Apple App Store. Search for Collects. OneBellaire Page 11 of 20  City of Bellaire Resources (Cont’d) Water Monitoring Resources Register and access from this link: https://belltx.aquahawk.us § The Bellaire resident utility portal powered by AquaHawk is a free service for City of Bellaire customers that allows the customer to monitor their own water usage, set and receive alerts, and gives them the tools to control monthly water bills. § Customers interested in using the portal must register to create a new account. Page 12 of 20  Recent ESB AchievementsJan 2023 Jan 2023 Dec 2024 Oct 2024 Mar/Apr ‘25 April 2025 Solar Panel Bellaire AquaHawk ESB Learning Food Diversion Water Sense Installation Collects App Program Water Water City Bellaire City Hall Trash calendar monitoring conservation City Bellaire Sept 2024 Nov/Dec ‘24 Oct 2024 May 2025 Oct 2024 Apr 2025 Air Bee n Bee Pumpkin Bellaire ESB Learning NDC Pumpkin Earth Day Composting Recycling Day Patch Girl Scouts / Waste Mulberry Park City Bellaire City Bellaire Management City Bellaire Evelyn’s Park April 2025 Oct 2025 Oct 2025 Dark Skies Bellaire NDC Pumpkin Proclamation Recycling Day Patch Page 13 of 20 City of Bellaire City Bellaire City Bellaire  Board Feedback Authority Confusion Time vs. Impact Mismatch Resource Ambiguity § What decisions actually happen at § I believe in monthly meetings it § I want our own social media the Board meeting each month provides continuity § Why am I paying out of pocket for § Council and City just say no to § Monthly meetings are too much, everything everything, so what’s the point what is there to decide? § I’d like a new banner for the ESB § Its unclear how to make a § I don’t have the time to attend ESB § I want our own social media difference events § The city is too slow, can’t we do this § What is the process for the city vs. § City doesn’t listen, I’m just spinning ourselves? council wheels Page 14 of 20  Framework: ESB IS Advisory as-is Sec. 2-122. - Environmental sustainability board. (a) Creation. There is hereby created the environmental sustainability board, which was established, in its original form, by Resolution No. 88-10 on May 9, 1988. (b) Purpose. The board shall serve in an advisory capacity to the public works department and to the city council regarding policy matters pertaining to environmental sustainability, and is responsible to the city council. (c) Membership and appointment. The board shall be composed of nine members to be appointed by the city council. (d) Duties and powers. The board shall have the following specific purposes: (1) Review and make advisory recommendations to city council in the initiation, prioritization, and development of programs, policies, and activities relating to environmental sustainability, including, but not limited to, energy and natural resource conservation and recycling; (2) Research and recommend financial resources to offset costs of programs and initiatives relating to sustainability, including without limitation grants, sponsorships, and cost-savings programs; and (3) Develop programs to educate the public and increase city residents' participation in and knowledge of environmental sustainability practices. Page 15 of 20 Absent Council direction, the ESB has no more authority than organized public comment  Comparison: ESB vs. Parks Council Parks, Recreation & Facilities City Works? Parks? Patrons for Bellaire Parks Parks & Recreation Advisory Board Environmental Sustainability Board (PRAB) (ESB) Page 16 of 20 This is not a critique of Parks, its an illustration of what clarity enables  Solution: Discussion Items 1. A clearly articulated environmental and sustainability vision from the City 2. Clear definition of whether the Board is purely advisory, active, or a hybrid with guardrails 3. A dedicated budget for the Board and or the City for environmental initiatives 4. Expense reimbursement for Board activities 5. Consideration of establishing a supporting charity, similar to Patrons/Parks 6. Ability to automatically place items on the City Council agenda 7. Opportunity to interview prospective Board candidates prior to Council selection 8. Current two-term limits, adjusting back to three 9. Attendance mechanics, be applied to council and city liaisons Page 17 of 20 Key Decision Points Are #1 and #2  #1 Vision is Needed to Benchmark Advice Bellaire’s vision for environmental sustainability is: [TBD] Currently it’s a blank slate, whether it’s a ”net zero” or goals on tree count, the ESB will be Page 18 of 20 continuously swimming upstream without it  #2 Choosing a Model City Integrated Advisory Only Advisory + Charity (Parks Model) (Staffed & Budgeted) § De facto arm of the City, similar to § Only advises, council and city staff § Hybrid model which allows those West University will present what it’d like the ESB to who wish to be hands on AND not § Semi-autonomous with its on opine on have ANY constraints budget and ability to act on its own § No budget, no events and no § Charity will fundraise, pay for its conviction education (directly) own resources, have its own social § Ability to staff and have resources § Will require a process and media channels, no term limits for events and education mechanics to allow it to work § Charity can educate/events § Not every member has time nor § Not every member wants to just § ESB will stay purely advisory capacity to do events give advice, they want to be “hands on” § Events: YES § Events: NO § Events: YES (charity) § Education: YES § Education: NO (City only) § Advise council: YES (both) § Projects: YES § Projects: NO § Projects: YES (charity) Page 19 of 20  Decision Input Requested from the Board Which operating model best reflects how members want the ESB to function in practice Page 20 of 20