12-10-97 Minutes
CHANHASSEN ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
December 10, 1997
Meeting called to order by Uli Sacchet at 7:10 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Andrew Leith, Uli Sacchet, Bill Coldwell, Jack Atkins, and Susan
Markert
MEMBERS ABSENT:
Susan Wright, Susan Morgan, Maureen Farrell and Greg Havlik
STAFF PRESENT:
Phillip Elkin, Water Resources Coordinator
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
November 12, 1997 minutes were approved.
RECYCLING PROJECT UPDATE:
Members discussed the design of the magnet. Andy’s
comment regarding a magnet design proposed … “ this is not a cool magnet, you’ve got to have a
cool magnet to get noticed”. After much discussion and sketches, it was decided that the magnet
would have the Reduce-Re-use-Recycle symbol with a maple leaf in the middle. White and forest
green were the colors selected. White letters on a green background would be the first selection,
but if that proves to be too costly, green letters on a white background is the next choice.
Commissioners envisioned a similar size and shape magnet as the Radon awareness magnet that
was recently distributed. Upon checking with postal rates, Jill discovered that no extra postage
would be needed with this size and weight magnet. Jill is currently evaluating samples of
adhesives for mounting the magnet in the newsletter. Commissioners were reminded that the
newsletter is mailed the same day that it is delivered from the printer. This means that several
volunteers would be needed for 1-2 hours the day of mailing to help stuff the newsletter.
Phone message items were reviewed by the Commission and found to be in several different
formats. Uli and Andy decided that they would meet and edit the information into a script. It was
decided that the line should give quick access and informational. “ Be specific, but be brief”
An issue that was discussed but not resolved was -What geographical range of resources should
be included? There are some local sites but several services are only located in Minneapolis and
further.
GOAL REVIEW
: The following notes surmises the discussion held on each issue. In response
to bringing issues to the council it was asked if the council could bring a list of questions or hot
topics to the environmental commission.
?
Identify what is special to Chanhassen and educate residents about it before it’s destroyed.
?
Address loss of wildlife. Sue Markert volunteered to start, or organize a wildlife journal to
document species.
?
Suggested species list for planting in yards. Wetland species, tree species, prairie, butterfly,
etc.
?
Compile list of recommendations of what residents can do to improve their
environment/neighborhood.
Environmental Commission Minutes
December 10, 1997
Page 2
?
Survey residents, commissioners, and/or city council to determine environmental concerns and
‘hot topics’.
?
Arbor Day celebration - Mr. Leith pointed that at this time last year commissioners were
already planning for the 1997 program. It was agreed that planning should begin next meeting.
Discussion to be continued…
CITIES BY NATURE’S DESIGN:
Commissioners watched a video provided by Jill on
restoring and protecting existing tree coverage in Urban areas. Mr. Coldwell asked Phillip if he
turns the lights off at home when he watches TV , then turned the lights back on. The video
presented material that was strikingly similar to the previous discussion; i.e. protecting existing
tree resources, encouraging re-planting and putting a monetary value on trees.
GENERAL DISCUSSION:
Bill passed around a brochure on Green Home suggested a buyers
checklist. Next meeting he will bring an outline for a Green House. Members read the
resignation letter from Greg Havlik.
Meeting was adjourned at 9:05 p.m.
Prepared and Submitted by Phillip Elkin
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