Sustainability Commission

MEETING MINUTES SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION October 9, 2014 The Sustainability Commission met in Community Conference Room of the Village at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 9, 2014. In attendance were: Present: Don Anderson, Chairman Daniel Dorfman Laurie Leibowitz Gloria Threats Brian Wolkenberg Absent: Richard Heller Michael Shalen Jerry Witkovsky Also Present: Andrew Lichterman, Assistant to the Village Manager Approval of Minutes Commissioner Wolkenberg motioned and Commissioner Threats seconded to approve the minutes from the July 15, 2014 meeting. The minutes were unanimously approved. Public Comment There was no public comment. Energy Assessment Program – Presentation by Kami Farahmandpour Chairman Anderson welcomed Mr. Farahmandpour (Kami) to the meeting and noted that he hopes this presentation would help to give the energy subcommittee ideas to pursue and allow a better assessment of our partner Energy Impact Illinois. Kami noted that he is a forensic building envelope consultant with expertise in the science of buildings. Kami reviewed energy consumption in homes and illustrated that water heating, appliances, electronics, and lighting are significant sources of energy consumption in residential homes. Kami reviewed the pros and cons of insulation and noted that air sealing is more important than insulation. Additionally, Kami noted that changes in occupant behavior can account for 6-8% energy savings and is zero cost, but relies heavily on public education. Kami recommended that anyone recommending building improvements be property vetted. He noted that energy audits should be conducted by an independent contractor. He suggested tools such as a FAQ and standardized form be created to help consumers compare contractor pricing and conduct proper due diligence. Kami emphasized that energy efficiency programs should be practical so residents can be convinced of the benefits. The program should focus resources in areas that yield meaningful results. He noted that building codes are also another tool to increase energy efficiency but that contractors may also use codes to mislead homeowners into over improving their property. Chairman Anderson thanked Kami for his thorough presentation. Kami stated he would remain available as a resource to the Commission. Kami exited the meeting. The Commission evaluated the presentation and thought that overall it was beneficial and offered practical advice and suggestions for moving forward with an energy efficiency program. Chairman Anderson stated follow-up conversation will be held with Energy Impact Illinois so the commission can better understand their funding and process for vetting participating contractors. Commission Wolkenberg noted a lot of good recommendations were offered but prioritizing action steps is still a challenge. Commissioner Leibowitz noted it will be important for the Commission to educate residents and help mitigate misinformation. Commissioner Threats stated that the presentation offered lots of new knowledge and inquired about the best means of communicating with residents. Commissioner Dorfman stated the presentation was thorough and the Commission will need to prioritize and implement an effective communications strategy. Chairman Anderson thanked everyone for their input and challenged the group to contemplate next steps. Water Assessment Update Mr. Lichterman stated that he recently attend the Healthy Lifestyle Expo and the Farmers Market where he handed out brochures promoting the water conservation program. He noted the BMW Plumbing reported that they have begun receiving calls related to the program. Other Items for Discussion Smart Irrigation Systems Mr. Lichterman noted that as a follow-up to the last meeting, he determined there are 531 residential irrigation systems present in the Village. He also noted that Shepard Middle School has completed several energy efficiency improvements at their facility and the Commission can take a tour at any time. Adjournment Commissioner Threats motioned to adjourn. Commissioner Dorfmam seconded. The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 PM. Respectfully submitted, Andrew Lichterman Assistant to the Village Manager