03-10-04 Minutes
CHANHASSEN ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION (EC)
REGULAR MEETING
March 10, 2004
Meeting called to order at 6:35 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Kim Grant, Ron Olsen, Jo Mueller, Deborah Yungner
MEMBERS ABSENT:
Marcus Zbinden, Dottie Shay
STAFF PRESENT:
Jill Sinclair, Environmental Resources Specialist
COUNCIL PRESENT:
none
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
February minutes were approved.
GUEST SPEAKER, TAMMY JOHO, CARVER COUNTY RADON COORDINATOR:
Tammy introduced herself saying that she works for the county Environmental Services and is
the radon coordinator. She is also a senior at the U of M and will graduate this May. She said
that the county received a grant in order to increase public education on radon. Tammy says she
has or will be giving talks on radon to schools, realtors, day care professionals and the general
public. She explained that radon is a naturally occurring gas that is the second leading cause of
lung cancer. Radon can enter a home through cracks in the foundation, pipes, water supply or
windows. Radon is dangerous because it’s odorless, colorless and tasteless and therefore
undetectable unless tested for. There are no safe levels of radon, but the EPA has set an action
level at 4pCi/l. The county sells short-term and long-term test kits. If the results come back high
for a home, there are retrofit designs that can be installed in a home to reduce the levels. The
cost of construction is about $1250. Radon Resistant New Construction (RRNC) is available for
new homes being built. It generally costs between $350-$800.
WASTE MANAGEMENT RECYCLING TOUR:
Ron said the tour went well and that the
plant manager was knowledgeable and answered many of the questions that Sheldon wasn’t able
to. He said that he would support the change to the ordinance because WM is trying to increase
recycling and make it a profitable endeavor. This needs to be done if recycling is to succeed, he
added. Jo argued that there are three things that make her hesitant to support the change. 1.
There’s a cost savings to WM that is not passed on to the customers. 2. How does the city know
that the current recycling isn’t already going to the facility where the residual rate is so high? 3.
Can the residuals be tracked? WM need to be held responsible. Jill informed the commission
that WM request for an ordinance amendment has been filed and is scheduled to be heard by the
City Council on April 12. The commission will need to make a recommendation for the report
by the end of the month. Kim brought up the fact that WM has not complied with the current
ordinance requiring monthly reports of recycling volumes. Jo suggested that a subcommittee
come up with a recommendation. The commission planned to meet on March 15 at 6 pm to
discuss the issue further.
ARBOR DAY:
Jill said that Marcus had followed up with all the schools and poster were in
from St. Hubert’s. The commission tossed out ideas for thank you gifts for the volunteers.
Suggestions included earth stamps, lunch bags, or medals.
STRATEGIC PLAN:
The commission reviewed the final draft of the plan. Deborah wondered
about adding the phrase “sustainable communities” or “sustainable future” to the document. Or
in the Vision section adding “…for building a sustainable future.” The commission decided to
postpone approval until April.
JULY 4 PARADE:
The commission wondered if last year’s signs were saved. Jill said she will
check with Marcus and Dotti. The commission decided it would hand out coupons and
brochures for the recycling center and candy. Ron said he would check with the Chaska HS
Environmental Club to see if they would like to partner with the commission for a float. Jill will
contact Marcus about the availability of the Green Guardian.
GENERAL DISCUSSION:
Ron said he contacted the high school Env. Club and got the name
of an interested student, Logan Jensen. Ron contacted Logan and found out a little about her.
He said she’s interested in organic farming and might be interested in getting involved with the
community gardens. Deborah wondered what her knowledge base was and Ron that it was
average or above average for a 16 yr. old. Deborah believes this should be a real educational
experience for her and that Logan should have a title. The commission thought it may ask the
council to give her a title or position.
Meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m.
Prepared and Submitted by Jill Sinclair
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