Environmental Sustainability Council

Falls Church Environmental Services Council Thursday February 20, 2014 - 7:30 - 9:30 pm Dogwood Room, G Corridor ACCEPTED Minutes - Prepared by Sarah Bayldon 1. Call to Order Members present: Tim Stevens (Chair), Ray Arnaudo, Sarah Bayldon, Bill Schellstede , Peter Oppenheimer, Peter Adriance and Suzanne Updike, City Staff present: Allison Lohrenz, Mike Collins City Council liaison present: Dan Sze Planning Comm Rep: Lindy Hockenberry Tree Commission Members also present but I did not get all their names. 2. Allison Lohrenz presented the Transportation Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan, Mobility for All Modes. This covers cars, bikes, pedestrians and all others. There was general agreement that the city should be made friendlier for modes of transportation other than cars, especially as the population grows both in the City and around it. The ESC would emphasize the environmental benefits of alternative modes. Paul Stoddard was interested in any suggestions people might have by 28 Feb along with justification as that makes it easier to support. All were invited to attend the Community Meeting on this topic on Saturday, March 15. The plan will go before the City Council in May. Specific issues: A. Suzanne - Plan tree plantings w/future sidewalks in mind so as not to block them. B. Bill S - Hook-ups for electric cars in new parking developments C. Bike racks for businesses, bulb outs to slow traffic D. Dan Sze - transportation is so important Chapter 7 was done out of order Bill offered to put together our comments. 3. The new preschool development on Cherry Street was discussed – Jessie Thackrey Pre- School. Site plan includes water retention area under parking lot. 4. Tim Stevens reported on the legislation updates. Community net metering did not pass but it was a good introduction to the concept. Bag fee also not passed as Saslaw said would have to be state-wide but incoming Marcus Simon supports it. Power purchase agreement notes: 5. The Green Fire viewing of documentary about Aldo Leopold on 27 February at the Community Center was recommended. Leopold was an early naturalist and conservationist. 6. The search for a new city arborist is underway. About 15 applied and 4 were to be interviewed. Expect to fill fairly soon. 7. Next meeting: March 20, 2014. (Minutes: Peter O) Community Center, Community Room 8. Approval of January Minutes 9. Adjournment – at 9:30.