Environmental Advisory Council

EAC September 16, 2025, Minutes Members in Attendance: Grant Alger, Dan Ford, Steve Nelson, Kirstyn Gudknecht, Grant Rowe, Sustainability Coordinator, and Karyn Hyland, Planning and Zoning Director. Council members Dennis Livrone and Liz Wyckoff were also in attendance. Call to Order: The meeting was called to order at 6:42 pm. Approval of Minutes, August 19, 2025: The minutes were approved as submitted. Doylestown Climate Action Plan: Steve provided an in-depth overview of the Doylestown Climate Action Plan (DCAP) and the results of the 2019 greenhouse gas emissions inventory. He reviewed how the plan was created, how it addresses climate change, and its impact on the Borough. Steve also spoke about some of the legal limits the Borough can require with respect to the DCAP and how the Borough will act as an advocate for climate action and lead by example. Steve also shared the 18 main high-priority and short-term climate actions based on what is listed in the DCAP, and how the action steps can be implemented, and which steps to take to complete the plan. Following a discussion that included questions from EAC members, the EAC voted to approve the DCAP with certain amendments made by Grant R., specifically to edit language in the energy action items section, and—once complete— forward it to the Planning Commission (Nelson/Ford). Reports: • Outreach and Communications: The EAC will be at the Farmers’ Market on September 20, 2025, and will be joined at the table by Bike Doylestown. • Park Habitat Enhancements: Dan has finalized his analysis on Veterans Memorial and Chapman Parks. • Bird Town: Grant A. shared that a second bird crash study is being done and suggested the Borough continue to promote the “Lights Out” program. • Staff Report: Grant R. provided the staff report. The Borough Council passed a resolution to comment on the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed rule to remove greenhouse gas regulations for vehicles. Grant R. submitted the comment, and a page was created on the Borough’s website for the public to see the comment. Work continues creating educational signage at Chapman Park, updating the Green Points program, and setting up the new solar array at Borough Hall. Grant also shared a concern brought to our attention by a citizen, who inquired about the wild plants in Broad Commons. The area she was referring to was turned over and covered in mulch to help stop the spread of invasive plants, including Mugwort. The area will be replanted and allowed to return to its wild state. Old/New Business: Under the topic of new business, Grant A. shared two grant opportunities. One is an educational grant, and the other is a water quality fund. Dan let the Council members know that he will be moving from the Borough and will submit his resignation letter to Karyn. Dennis shared that he has been working with DelVal University to participate in a “One Health” presentation that will focus on our DCAP. Karyn, Grant R., and other members will participate in a public panel. As more information becomes available, Dennis will send it along to EAC members. Adjournment: There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:34 p.m. (Nelson/Ford). Respectfully Submitted by: Erika Fellman Minutes Secretary