Environmental Quality Commission

APPROVED MINUTES OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY CONTROL COMMISSION VILLAGE OF NORTHBROOK March 21, 2013 Chairman Jeremy Reynolds called the EQC meeting to order at 7:08 p.m. in the Terrace Room of the Northbrook Village Hall, 1225 Cedar Lane. The following Members were in attendance: Chairman Jeremy Reynolds, Sandra Garber, Brian Bruce, and Linda Masters. A full quorum was met. Also Present: Liaison Andrew Letson, Members absent: Scott Robson, Fred Paul, and Michael Beeftink. Minutes The minutes of the February 21, 2013 meeting were reviewed. Member Masters made a motion to approve the minutes as presented and was seconded by Member Bruce. On a voice vote, the motion passed unanimously. Chairman’s Report Chairman Reynolds welcomed new member Sandra Garber. The group introduced themselves and provided a short description of their experiences. Member Garber provided information on her background and stated that she is excited to become involved with the group. Chairman Reynolds provided an update on the EQC/Stormwater Subcommittee meeting that was held earlier in the evening. He stated that overall he was pleased with the proactive steps that staff has already taken to incorporate best management practices in upcoming stormwater projects. The Commission requested that Staff Liaison Letson provide a timeline of when stormwater projects will be conducted. Citizen Concerns Hear from the Audience There were no members of the public who wished to speak. Village Staff Liaison Letson stated that earlier in the day he had received a draft copy of the sustainability plan, but had not yet had time to review it. Chairman Reynolds asked if there would still be an opportunity for the Commission to review the plan, and Staff Liaison Letson confirmed that there would be. Member Masters reported that Member Robson was able secure contact information and would be setting up a meeting in the near future to discuss the Techny Basin/Willow Festival area. Chairman Reynolds stated that there had been no word to this point from the Farmer’s Market; however they’ve sought the presence of the Commission in the past. Member Garber stated that she would be willing to represent the Commission at the Farmer’s Market since she lives nearby. Chairman Reynolds reported that he had not been able to complete the update of the draft 50/50 drainage brochure; however it will be ready by the Earth/Arbor Day Event. Member Bruce stated that the Northbrook Community Garden currently has about 50 active gardeners and 22 people on a waiting list. Staff Liaison Letson provided Member Bruce with a map of Village-owned properties prior to the meeting. Member Bruce stated that it was his opinion that the West Side Reservoir MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY CONTROL COMMISSION March 21, 2013 Page 2 of 2 would be an ideal location for another community garden. The plots would be installed using raised beds and separated far enough apart to accommodate the Village’s lawn mower. The only thing the community garden would require is a water spigot. Staff Liaison Letson stated that he would discuss with staff and report back at the next meeting. The group discussed conducting another river cleanup. In the past, the Commission has cleared brush. It may be possible for the Commission to partner with the Friends of the Chicago River or another group to conduct a cleanup. In addition, the Commission could solicit help from the schools or a scouting group. Member Masters stated that she would get more information for the next meeting. The Commission’s Earth Day booth was discussed. The idea of providing a map of the Village where residents could show the location of their rain gardens, bio-swales, rain barrels, etc. was discussed. This map would provide some baseline information to help populate a GIS layer of green stormwater infrastructure throughout the Village. Staff Liaison Letson stated that he would print a map and provide an easel. New Business There was no new business discussed. Next Meeting The next regular meeting of the EQC will be held on February 18, 2013. Adjourn Member Bruce made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:02 p.m. The motion was seconded by Member Garber. On a voice vote, the motion passed. Respectfully submitted, /s/ Andrew Letson Liaison