Environmental Quality Commission

APPROVED MINUTES OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY CONTROL COMMISSION VILLAGE OF NORTHBROOK September 18, 2014 Chairman Jeremy Reynolds called the EQC meeting to order at 7:00 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, Brian Bruce, and Scott Robson. A full quorum was met. Also Present: Staff Liaison Andrew Letson, Kathleen Drewno and Connor Robson Members absent: Marjorie Satten and Sandra Garber Minutes The minutes of the August 21, 2014 meeting were reviewed and Chairman Reynolds identified two scrivener’s errors. A motion was made by Member Beeftink and seconded by Chairman Reynolds to approve the minutes as amended. On a voice vote, the motion passed unanimously. Chairman’s Report Chairman Reynolds stated that he had nothing to include under the Chairman’s report. Citizen Concerns Hear from the Audience Ms. Kathleen Drewno introduced herself to the Commission and stated that she was present as a representative of Go Green Northbrook. Mr. Connor Robson introduced himself, stated that he is a Boy Scout and was present to observe the meeting as a requirement for a merit badge. Village Northbrook Community Garden Update Member Bruce reported that the Community Garden is planning to install a railing for the new stairs at the Crestwood site. The new stairs have been successful in providing access to the garden for many Crestwood residents and the group wants to ensure that they are safe. Member Bruce stated that he met with Andy Cook who is planning to install a rain garden at the Crestwood site and all are in agreement as to the location. Finally, the Community Garden will hold their fall meeting during the week of September 22. Review of Winnetka Coal Tar Based Pavement Sealant Ban Chairman Reynolds introduced the topic by providing an overview of the concerns regarding polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH’s), which are present in pavement sealant. PAH’s have been shown to be dangerous to humans if consumed over a period of time. Member Paul expressed that he is interested in learning more about the potential impact on residents and long term effects of exposure. Chairman Reynolds provided a brief overview of the Village of Winnetka’s recent ban. Member Bruce expressed that he was interested in seeing how the implementation of Winnetka’s ban was coming along. The discussion shifted to alternative driveway sealants that do not include coal tar and the durability of asphalt based sealants. Member Robson stated that he has observed that many residents seal their driveways each year so he sees durability as less of a concern. Chairman Reynolds brought up that education of property owners may be preferable to a ban. Member Bruce suggested that as part of the Commission’s due diligence the group could survey local seal coating companies to determine what type of produce they use. Chairman Reynolds suggested that the group bring in someone from Winnetka to discuss the information they learned and their decision making process. Member Robson stated that he feels it will be important that the Commission be able to answer all of the questions that the Village Board may have. The Commission agreed to continue the discussion at the next regular meeting and invite someone from Winnetka to speak. New Business There was no new business discussed. Next Meeting The next regular meeting of the EQC will be held on October 16, 2014. Adjourn Member Bruce made a motion to adjourn the meeting was made at 8:20 p.m. The motion was seconded by Member Robson. On a voice vote, the motion passed. Respectfully submitted, /s/ Andrew Letson Liaison