Environmental Quality Commission

APPROVED MINUTES OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY CONTROL COMMISSION VILLAGE OF NORTHBROOK February 20, 2014 Chairman Jeremy Reynolds called the EQC meeting to order at 7:07 p.m. in the Shermer Study of the Northbrook Village Hall, 1225 Cedar Lane. The following Members were in attendance: Chairman Jeremy Reynolds, Michael Beeftink, Fred Paul and Scott Robson. A full quorum was met. Also Present: Liaison Jim Baxa Members absent: Sandra Garber, Linda Masters and Brian Bruce Minutes The minutes of the January 15, 2014 meeting were reviewed; a motion was made to approve the minutes as presented. On a voice vote, the motion passed unanimously. Chairman’s Report Conversion of Detention Basins to Native Plantings Grant Application; Chainman Reynolds spoke on the Best Management Practices (BMP) for using native plantings with the design of stormwater detention basins in lieu of typical grass which is widely used in today’s designs. Chairman Reynolds mentioned that at the next Environmental Quality Control (EQC) committee meeting that Andrea Cline from the Lake County Stormwater Committee will be present to discuss how the 319 grant program functions. Citizen Concerns Hear from the Audience There were no comments from the audience. Village Fiscal Year 2015/16 Stormwater Projects The committee reviewed the list from the Master Stormwater Management Plan and identified a couple of projects that may qualify for 319 grant funding. These projects included Dundee/Skokie Intersection, Sunset Lane, and Weller’s Subdivision. Chairman Reynolds stated he would reach out to the Village Engineer to discuss further. Earth/Arbor Day Celebration – April 26, 2014 Discussion focused on what the EQC commission was planning to present for the Earth/Arbor Day event. The Commissioners leaded toward displaying information on the Village’s Sustainability Plan. In addition, the group thought it might be beneficial to create a separate informational page on the Village’s website and to use social media to promote the Plan to create a forum for resident feedback. Green Vendor Event (after Earth Day) The Commission continued discussion on the idea for a second Green themed vendor event to bridge the gap between the annual Earth/Arbor events. Location where to hold the event was the topic focus as locations such as the Village Library or local Farmer’s Market were suggested. A suggestion to model the second event similar to “Go Green Wilmette” was recommended. Community Garden Update Chairman Reynolds read an update that had been provided to him by Member Bruce. The Community Garden has confirmed their participation in this year’s Earth Day event and has donated half of a plot to the Library for use in summer classes. A dedication ceremony is being planned for the enabling garden at the Crestwood site, which is tentatively scheduled for late May or early June. Finally, the Garden is seeking permission to install some improvements at the Crestwood site, including a possible expansion. New Business Member Scott Robson shared information on Go Green Northbrook and their interest to pursue the installation of a multi-user path along the West Fork North Branch of the Chicago River from Willow Road to Techny Road. The project is still in the conceptual stage and will require additional authorization from all property owners involved. Next Meeting The next regular meeting of the EQC will be held on March 20, 2014. Adjourn A motion to adjourn the meeting was made at 8:27 p.m. On a voice vote, the motion passed. Respectfully submitted, /s/ Jim Baxa Liaison