Archived Minutes of Core Committee Meetings

From Edgewater 2020

Edgewater Environmental Sustainability Project Minutes December 10, 2009

Attendees: John Aquilina, Helen Cameron, , Anne Comeau, Jared Desecki, Jason Liechty, Carmen Vidal-Hallett, Tom Murphy, Francoise Pierre, Allen Stryczek, Peter Locke, and Nick Penneff

1. Planning Calendar: 2010

a) January, 2010 meeting with Edgewater School Principals (Pre-Planning meeting 12-14-09 at Osterman offices):

The Green Schools team will work with Rep.Osterman’s and Sen. Steans’ staff to set up a meeting with all Edgewater School principals. Helen Cameron offered Uncommon Ground for a breakfast or lunch meeting some time in January. To encourage Principal’s attendance and make it a worthwhile session for the educators, the following topics were suggested:

• How to access state level green initiative grants and where to get assistance in filing for these grants
• Creation of a network of school personnel to pool ideas/solutions to green issues
• How to create an organic school project and where to get support for it.
• Jared suggested that perhaps an experienced speaker could be brought in as well.

Jared set up a preliminary planning meeting for noon Monday December 14th.

b) February: 2/11/10 7:00p.m.

Helen confirmed that Uncommon Ground has set aside Thursday, February 11 7:00 p.m. for a Green Room Session regarding the Sustainability Project. The group discussed potential themes for the session. One was to promote the wider March 8th event. Tom Murphy pointed out that we need to broaden the appeal of the Project so that a wider audience beyond the current environmentally concerned group will support the project and take steps within their own homes and businesses. One theme was to promote Sustainable Development in the Neighborhoods: Examples – the rebuilding of the Edgewater Library on Broadway and the new Dominicks on Foster and Sheridan. The first has had little input, but community input was sought for the Dominicks project which did include suggestions for sustainability. Therefore the questions continue

• What does the community want to see in development spaces and can we have meaningful oversight as the project becomes a work in progress (plans seem to change as the building process occurs, so there needs to be monitoring)
• Are there other developments that are “in the works” that can use sustainable input
• Call to Action

c) March: 3/8/10 7:00p.m. – 9:00 p.m. (at the latest)

EESP will host our annual Edgewater’s Community Environmental Awareness Report. Moderated by Harry Osterman and Heather Steans. Potential venue: Emmanuel Congregation. This event will be used to report on the progress to date of the EESP.

• What have we accomplished this year (Examples: EESP Report, NEW Ravenswood Garden, Devon Streetscape, Energy Efficiency workshop etc.) 15 minutes

• Those teams or groups that have been directly involved in sustainability projects in their homes or neighborhoods will be invited to give updates and provide information to others on how to accomplish change. (Example: Energy Efficiency Audit for Clennons/Green Dream Group; NEW Ravenswood Garden/GreenCorps/40thWard) 30 minutes

• Breakout Sessions led by team leaders, followed by a wrap up session & report to the group by one of the breakout groups. 20 plus 10 minutes to report

• Electronic voting: The issues or questions posed will need to be crafted so that meaningful input is received. Peter Locke will follow up on the electronic voting tools – cost, availability, etc. 10 minutes

April (Earth Day event at Loyola with EESP giving a session presention)

July (Fundraiser at Uncommon Ground)

August (Farmer's Market attendence to promote EESP projects and focus on specific environmental activities for individual efforts)

2. Activities:

a) Meetings -

• Renewable Energy committee will meet on Thursday, December 10th to discuss the potential projects and funding availability for these initiatives. Several new members were recruited and may take leadership positions on this important team.

• A meeting with Loyola University’s Nancy Tuchman and Marshall Eames has been set up for January 7th. They have expressed their interest in working collaboratively on Sustainability, including education of the public on the need for these changes.

b) Grant Applications –

• A grant letter of intent was to Exelon Corporation approximately 6 weeks ago. They have indicated that they will approve the funding, but only a portion of what was requested. In order for the proposed weatherization project to be successful, additional grants or fund sources will be needed.

3. Open Discussion:

John Aquilina suggested that we become more visible in the community by publicizing ourselves in a similar way that the Artists in Motion have been (using vacant storefronts for displays). Or, at the least having posters in the ECC windows and other areas announcing the various activities.

Carmen Vidal-Hallett volunteered to meet with Centra Romero to discuss the Environmental Sustainability Project. If they have started their own projects, we want to support their efforts but also encourage them to join us so we can work together.

Committee chairs were encouraged to meet with Block Clubs, faith groups and other organizations in order to encourage more volunteers and participation. Practically speaking, we also will need to give residents and businesses some cost saving or healthier living reasons for their involvement.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:30 a.m. The next meeting will occur on Thursday, January 14th 8:00 – 9:30 am at the ECC offices – 6044 N. Broadway.

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Edgewater Environmental Sustainability Project Minutes November 12, 2009

Attendees: John Aquilina, Helen Cameron, Anne Comeau, Jason Liechty, Xavier Chen, Carmen Vidal-Hallett, Mike Johnson, Tom Murphy, Francoise Pierre, Allen Stryczek, Peter Locke, Reggie Griffin, Nick Penneff Guest: Robert Rebecca - Adler Group

1. EESP Report Review:

The Sustainability Report is in its final editing phase. All the chairs have submitted their write ups regarding each target area and their plan for implementing the goals. Tom Murphy gave the attendees a presentation on the current version of the report. The emphasis was on the Planning & Development section with John Aquilina and Carmen Vidal-Hallett commenting. Additional graphs and pictures may be needed and chairs were asked to send them to Tom Murphy for review. JPEG visuals were suggested by our layout expert because of copy quality.

The report team will be meeting with Bill Rosario of Minolta to discuss the printing and binding of a number of hard copies of the document. Bill had indicated that Minolta is willing to donate the printing as a community service. Paper will be purchased from Consolidated Printing and paid via the funds on hold at ECC from the July fundraiser. Those hard copies will be important as we publicize the project to the community, public officials and submit requests for funding. The professional layout and set up of the document has been donated by Theresa Minarik of North Park Creative.

2. Activities:

a) Meetings:

• The Planning & Development Committee had met with Alderman O’Connor and he gave them some ideas on next steps they could take to engage city planners. Carmen was following up. P&D also created an extensive phased budget for the professional drafting & design of the Comprehensive Neighborhood Development Plan for Edgewater. That budget will be shared and discussed with funding sources by the P&D Committee as they work on raising funds to begin their draft/design.
• For the P&D Transportation area, Carmen & John will also be in attendance at the December lst CTA Red Line Visioning Meeting, along with Tom and Anne. A list of objectives and comments will be developed so that EESP’s public comments can be left with representatives of the CTA and our public officials. (That took place and a one page comment sheet was submitted to CTA. CTA officials also requested a copy of the EESP Report document when it was published, for inclusion into their final Public Comment Report to be released in January, 2010)
• A focus group was set up (Locke, Chen, Vidal-Hallett, Comeau, Liechty). The objective was to create a timeline calendar for key EESP achievements covering 2010 through 2020. The timeline was distributed to all Chairs for comment. The question is whether it should be included in the published report and how it should be presented. It was subsequently determined that the timeline of key project achievements would be included in its entirety, either as the last two pages or a centerfold in the EESP Report.
• The Steering Committee (Tom, Allen & Anne) will meet with Harry Osterman to discuss the status of the project and present objectives for 2010 including community meetings, plans and funding needs. The detail of Nick Peneff’s health grant to the CDC was to be shared with Harry as well, since although the grant was not approved, Harry was interested in the proposal.
• There will be a meeting of the Renewable Energy Committee on December 10th at 7pm. Sheli Lulkin will host.

b) Calendar of Events for 2010 was briefly discussed:

• Helen Cameron offered Uncommon Ground for a February Green Room Session – topic to be determined, and a July fundraiser.
• March 8th was tentatively discussed for a Community wide workshop. We subsequently confirmed both Osterman and Steans would be available to moderate.
• April – Loyola will have its North Lake Shore Earth Day and EESP will have a table with EB. Allen also suggested we work with their Earth Day committee to be on the list of presenters for this event. (Food is this years theme)
• Other monthly events or activities will need to be filled in by each chair so that we move forward on the project goals. Going out to the community to engage resident's involvement in the whatever aspect of the project that is important to them will begin to build the bond that is needed to make the sustainability changes needed.

c) Grant Applications:

• A grant has been prepared for submittal to Exelon Corporation. A preliminary letter of intent was sent to Exelon and we are awaiting comment. Once that has been cleared, financial info from the 501(C)grant pass through organization are the final items to be added to the online proposal information that has to be submitted. The grant was proposed for funding for a weatherization project in 2010 (attic insulation, programmable thermostats, etc) for approximately 20 Edgewater homes. Eligibility would include seniors and others in low to moderate income ranges. Students from local high schools would be interviewed, hired, trained and supervised by experienced adults to work as teams to install the products. The same grant proposal will be discussed with our public officials as a back up to Exelon.

• Neither Bridgeview nor Broadway Bank has responded to the earlier grant proposals sent.

3) Open Discussion: a) The new Edgewater Environmental Sustainability logo from Thom Greene and his associates was presented and approved. A larger version will be on the cover of the published report and used in all future communications regarding the EESP. Key features include changing the wording, so the logo now announces the Environmental Sustainability Project inder the wave. Also the date was removed in an earlier update.

b) Journalism students from Northwestern University were in attendance and interviewed both Murphy and Stryzcek for their class assignments.

c) Marketing and Publicity will be extremely important in the future. The steering committee will do a search for a volunteer to assist in that process. (Jason suggested Gretchen Muller who has experience in that field and who is on the ECC Board. Anne will reach out).

d) We briefly discussed the need to mentor and recruit new participants for each target area, including volunteers who would be willing to take over the committee assignment and work on the project’s implementation.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:30 a.m. The next meeting will occur on Thursday, December 10th 8:00 – 9:30 am at the ECC offices – 6044 N. Broadway. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Edgewater Environmental Plan Minutes October 8, 2009

Attendees: John Aquilina, Anne Comeau, Helen Cameron, Sharon Metzger, Tom Murphy, Nick Peneff, Allen Stryczek, Carmen Vidal-Hallett

Grants and Funding

• Energy Efficiency: Tom, Anne and Sharon are working on a grant proposal for Exelon. Exelon has requested a letter of intent which will be sent them for review and discussion. Our intent: Insulate attics, weatherize and install programmable thermostats in 20 Edgewater single family homes. High school students will be trained by professionals and supervised on the job where they will rotate leadership positions and learn job skills. Homeowners will be required to be on the site and participate by providing pre and post installation energy costs, as well as receiving energy efficiency tips and learning to program their thermoststs.

• Planning & Development/Transportation: Thom Greene, John, and Carmen have completed a preliminary budget proposal for funding a multi-year Comprehensive Environmental Master Plan for Edgewater. It will include forward looking land use designs, architectural renderings, engineering considerations, smart code useage and historic preservation as components in creating a vision for the future development of the community. The budget proposal is set up in phases and complements the written Planning & Development report.

Other Business

• P&D team members continued their round of presentations. In September they met with Alderman Smith (48th Ward) and Representative Osterman (14th District). Sharon Metzger will facilitate the meeting with Alderman O'Connor (40th Ward). Input and support from Edgewater representatives as well as the community at large is extremely important. (At the request of Osterman and Smith, P&D will set up follow up meetings regarding the funding proposal budget, since it was not finalized at the time of their presentations)

• • P&D/Transportation Chapter for the EESP Report is close to completion and its final version will be released to the edit team by October 16.

• GIS Map: Tom Murphy has been working with a Loyola graduate student on this project. Most of the technical problems have been overcome and access to this layered electronic map of Edgewater will soon be available to identify projects or focus on areas of interest in Edgewater that pertain to the Environmental project. More details will follow.

• EESP Report Document: Killian Walsh (edit/admin) and Theresa Minarik (design/layout) have joined the team that is working on the compilation and release of the Report. All the Chairs of the various topics have submitted their written reports. There are minor adjustments needed for some, e.g. adding implementation timelines for goals being proposed. Also additional graphs and/or pictures illustrating key points are being requested. This stage of the Report should be completed in November.

Next Meeting: Thursday November 12th 8:00 a.m.

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Edgewater Environmental Plan Minutes September 10, 2009

Attendees: Nick Custer, Jared Desechi, Thom Greene, Reggie Griffin, Jim Hohs, Jennifer Kaiser, Peter Locke, Tom Murphy, Allen Stryczek, Carmen Vidal-Hallett Jen Walling, and Killian Walsh,

Thursday 8-9:30pm

Upcoming events:

• 9/16 Workshop on Creating a Co-Delivery Pilot, ECC wants to participate
• 9/29 7pm Energy efficiency workshop. Broadway Armory Edgewater Public Library on Elmdale,
• 10/12 Community volunteer day, Senator Steans Office sponsoring
• H. Osterman working on Green Collar summit to assist Edgewater small businesses to become sustainable.

Parks

• 6151 Sheridan remediation finished
• Broman Park construction underway, remediation completed
• 9/12 St. Andrew Church plan for comfort station at Osterman Beach
• Ravenswood NEW garden completed

Transportation

• Metra Station in preplanning stage – location north side of Peterson, Carson Ribs possible parking

EESP Draft report

• Comments requested Target Areas: Review and comments requested
• Plan is moving forward into action or Project phase.
• Roll out plan tentative date October 2009
• Planning & Development architectural team has made presentations of the umbrella vision to Development Corps and Chambers with good responses. Meeting with public officials scheduled - Smith: 9/18; Osterman 9/22 O'Connor-Moore-Schakowsky in future. Their cooperation and support will be crucial to overall success and continuum of project.
• Format and final product under development

Finances

• 7/25 EB Fundraiser at Uncommon Ground raised some money distribution ideas:
• Funding for EESP report and equipment to test energy efficiency of residents
• Renew EB wiki website (Peter Locke to do)
• Grant application with ComEd energy efficient – weatherization and installation of attics for population 50% below poverty levels. The idea is to install insulation in attics and programmable thermostats on certain types of Edgewater homes. At this time the proposal has not been completed. Also, to clarify it will not focus specifically on any population or age group. We are currently targeting folks with up to 200% income over the poverty level. That may change since it is a population that is already being pursued by the city and ComEd for other types of grants or help. We have to do more research with ComEd to be sure we are focusing our request on what they are willing to fund (and get credit for).

Other business

• 9/24 Taste of Edgewater EESP/EB presence
• EESP/EB groups try to plan events

Next meeting: Thursday, October 8th at 8 AM _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Edgewater Environmental Sustainability Project Minutes of Meeting: August 13, 2009

Attendees: John Aquilina, Helen Cameron, Anne Comeau, Nick Custer, Carmen Vidal-Hallett, Mike Johnson, Peter Locke, Sharon Metzger, Tom Murphy

Welcome & Introductions: The meeting was called to order at 8:08 a.m. by Tom Murphy and introductions were made. New attendee was Nick Custer.

• The Farmer Fridays at Uncommon Ground had various EESP members provide information and handouts on our Environmental Plan. *The EESP Recycling team is attending the Wednesday Andersonville Farmer’s market to pass out information; gauge interest and recruit recycle captains.

Activities:

• Planning and Development: Updated info - Subsequent to the EESP August 13 meeting, there was a presentation to the Edgewater Community Council Board on August 18th. The presentation was very well received and Board Members suggested that the committee consider hosting a public meeting to present and discuss their proposals. P&D want to first meet with the Edgewater & Andersonville Community Development groups, the Chambers and our public officials to get their input and weave in the sustainability projects that they may also be considering so this effort can be a collaborative one.
• Funding: The fund raiser at Uncommon Ground on July 25th raised $3,136 – half of which is being donated to ECC as our sponsoring §501(c)(3) organization. The event was a great success with 68 tickets sold, wonderful entertainment and serious bidding on silent auction items. Many thanks to Elena Foukes, Sharon Metzger and Anne Comeau for organizing it.
• Outreach to Community: Tom Murphy, together with Ernie Constantino of the 48th Ward, will host an Energy Efficiency Workshop on Sept. 29 at the Edgewater library. There will be giveaways and tangible ideas on how residents can participate in saving costs while being more energy efficient. Tom is working on having at least one or more Energy Auditors available for face to face meetings as well as handouts, resource links and energy efficient products and services.
• Grant Applications – Aside from the Grant applications previously reported, we will also begin the application process to ComEd and believe we will have other Illinois State Grant opportunities. For example, we met with Jared Desecki of Rep Harry Osterman’s office to give him an update of the status of our projects and what goals have been met and Carmen & John gave a PowerPoint presentation created by Planning & Development. Jared indicated that Harry is very interested in participating in future events. We are planning regular outreach workshops and perhaps when the Environmental Report is released it might be the time to give the community another rallying point. Also, Jared will discuss with Rep Osterman our request for his support in applying for Illinois grants. (i.e. Carmen, John & Thom will begin crafting specifics so that Jared is able to seek out areas where funds are available for environmental projects. P&D want to use their grant to professionally complete, develop and manage all the components of the Environmental Vision they propose, so that it is a true master plan for the step by step changes within Edgewater as it moves toward meeting the vision of a being a true sustainable green community.)
• Work continues on writing the EESP report. Becky Bell, now at the Biodiversity Group but soon to be back to school, is helping to write and to put it together for us. Text for four or five topic sections are well along, text and materials are still needed for the other five.

Open Discussion:

• Nick Custer lives in the Sheridan Road corridor and his building is meeting with the Clinton Climate Fund Manager to discuss loan funds for a project in his building. Nick realized that we may also be interested in a community wide access to these funds, although apparently they have not normally gone in that direction. Jen Walling will also be meeting with the Clinton Manager as a representative of Sen. Steans, but we have asked that Jen keep our interests in mind as well.
• We recognized that if we can transition the thinking of the community from a reactive (the gas prices go up we get worried) to a pro-active approach then energy bills are reduced from the beginning, and savings begin immediately. This also will make a difference in home and property values. Getting an understanding that this is an investment and not a cost, is important to our success.
• A meeting was held with Suzanne Malec McKenna (Dept. of Environ. Commissioner). Notes from that meeting were distributed and a follow up was sent to the Commissioner regarding items she indicated she could provide to our committee. There has been senior staff cut in her dept., so we will need to be cognizant of that, but continue to follow through because of her enthusiasm for our work.
• A meeting was held with the Biodiversity Project which does Environmental Education, Publicity and Outreach. Notes were distributed. We are having a follow up meeting with them on Sept. 9th to discuss their future involvement with us, and ways to fund it. They requested we consider initially focusing on what is possible for each resident to do in the short term. That is, in each of our topic areas, what two goals are achievable for each community member? These would be used as focal points in publicizing our project and engaging residents in environmental action. We asked the chairs to think about that and give Tom Murphy feedback before Sept. 9th.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:30 a.m. The next meeting will occur on Thurs. Sept. 10th, 8:00 – 9:30 a.m. at the ECC offices – 6044 N. Broadway.

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Edgewater Environmental Plan Minutes of Meeting: June 11, 2009

Attendees: John Aquilina, Helen Cameron, Anne Comeau, Tony Giron, Carmen Vidal-Hallett, Jim Hohs, Mike Johnson, Peter Locke, Sarz Maxwell, Sharon Metzger, Tom Murphy, Nick Peneff, Francoise Pierre, Bill Rotolo, Ingo Soeding, Allen Stryczek, Jen Walling,

Welcome & Introductions: The meeting was called to order at 8:08 a.m. by Tom Murphy.

• New attendees were Jim Hohs, Sarz Maxwell
• Bill Rotolo, and Nick Peneff were there to discuss partnering with the EEP-2020 on seeking funding from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention for an evidence-based public health intervention for healthy homes in Edgewater.
• Anne summarized her participation for EEP-2020 at Green Festival at Navy Pier.
• The first Farmer Friday was held last week at Uncommon Ground. ECC and EEP-2020 shared a table. Helen estimated total attendance at about 800 people. We had serious inquiries from 30-50, with a dozen or so showing interest.

Activities:

• Planning and Development. Carmen summarized and discussed the nine objectives and goals developed at the planning meeting recently held on May 29th by the Planning and Development committee. The objectives and goals included: Creating commercial design development guidelines which incorporate practices recommended for Edgewater in 1996; Use of both form-based and transect zoning; Establishing LEED orientated guidelines for rehabs and new developments; Support the continuation of Lincoln Park through the Edgewater community, Support historic preservation and reuse of existing structures; Create Mass transit upgrades, including a new Metra station in the community; Consider additional traffic calming and promote better stormwater management in the community; Create new transit oriented developments in the community; Support additional greening and rain gardens; and finally, Create a overall Sustainable Master Plan for Edgewater. There was significant discussion of many of the points

It was suggested that the committee consider hosting a public meeting to present and discuss their proposals, after first meeting with the Edgewater & Andersonville Community Development groups to keep a good line of communication going.

• Funding: The up-coming fund raiser at Uncommon Ground on July 25th was discussed. Posters are available and Allen handed out small flyers to promote the sale of tickets to the event. The possibility of getting some pro bono entertainment was discussed.
• Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Jen discussed developing recycle opportunities for most materials in the community. A big stumbling-block faced by diabetics and others who need to use syringes for medical uses, was removed when Sarz gave Jen the name of local program that will legally receive and dispose of used needles, etc.; the 20th District police station accepts no longer needed pharmaceuticals; finally, they want to develop a drop-off for electronics in the community.

There was significant discussion of developing a local FreeCycle-type service in the community. It was hoped that some preliminary development could lead to a grant to develop a web-based program useable by other communities.

• Outreach to Community: Anne, Tom and Allen are going to Block Clubs and other Community Groups to give residents information regarding what the Environmental Plan is doing and giving tips and ideas regarding energy efficiencies and cost savings.
• Uncommon Ground: Farmer Fridays begins June 5th. The Environmental Plan will have a shared tent with ECC to publicize our activities and the fundraising event on July 25th (3-6 pm) A fundraising committee will work out the details of the silent auction, raffle, donations, PayPal/brown bag for ticket buying ($35/$60). Hor D’oeurves and beverages will be served. For Farmer Fridays: The following committees will be at the tables: Cleaning – June 5th; Transportation – June 12 (following the une 11th Eco Mixer); June 19 – Parks; June 26th – Energy Efficiency
• Loyola Student Volunteer Intern – Elena Foulkes has volunteered to work for the EEP committee. She was a member of Jeremy Brook’s class and will be able to commit to 12-15 hours per week until August when she is traveling to Beijing. She forwarded a resume through Loyola and interviewed with David, Allen and Anne reviewing her interests and our needs. She is friends with Dan Klienman of ECC’s Housing & Safety. We agreed she would be an asset and she has begun working with Dan on EB/EEP web updates to familiarize herself with the site and the office. She will be more heavily involved in the EEP fundraising committee including solicitation of donations, publicity, flyers, letters, web access for payments etc. until the actual event. Solicitations and donors are being tracked on the ECC offices spreadsheets.
• Grant Applications – Mini proposal submitted to Bridgeview Bank by Tom Murphy after Allen’s initial contact with Don C. Tom will also follow through with other local banks. Mike Johnson provided a lead for another grant opportunity with the Illinois Clean Energy Foundation and suggested some ideas on how to frame the proposal request. Tom will follow through on that proposal. We have kept David Rowe apprised in person and via copy of the various grant proposals including the one being developed by Nick Peneff.

Open Discussion:

• There will be a free trolley running on the third Saturday of each month in June, July and August that will have as its circular route: Sheridan Road, to Foster, to Broadway to Devon. This is being sponsored by the Chamber.
• It was suggested we may want to consider having events, such as:
  • an Edgewater Garden walk or a Rain Garden walk and encourage local walking, local shopping; or
  • a green infrastructure tour of Edgewater (should we contact the tour companies – they are always looking for a new hook)
  • participate in the Andersonville Midsommer Fest June 13 & 14 (ECC may have a table and we should join to publicize the Environmental Plan and the July 25th fundraiser)
• On the Planning and Development front we would want to have neighborhood guidelines published and align with those of the city’s plan: Reducing the wattage in the alley’s (lights facing down), solar lighting in parks and other areas when changes are made; light weight green roofs encouraged with self sustaining plant or watering tips; determining what buildings or residences would qualify for rebates or grants to insulate attics or weatherize windows, etc.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:30 a.m. The next meeting will occur on July 11th 8:00 – 9:30 am at the ECC offices – 6044 N. Broadway.

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Edgewater Environmental Plan Meeting: April 9, 2009 Minutes

Attendees: Helen Cameron, Anne Comeau, Monica Hammer, Peter Locke, Sharon Metzger, Theresa Minarik, Tom Murphy, Mike Johnson, David Rowe, and Allen Stryczek,

The meeting was called to order at 8:05 by Tom Murphy and introductions made.

• The details of the Green Room session to be held at Uncommon Ground that evening were discussed. Each topic was to be presented by its chair – or an alternate, and tables were to be set-up to facilitate discussions of each of the topics and for a sign-in sheet. The presentations were to be brief, to the point and to be two minutes or less in length.

• We then discussed the need for the topic committees to continue to meet, to plan and to keeping the community informed. The committees need to firm up their short term goals while planning and working on longer term ones. It was decided that EEP 2020 needs to develop a full agenda of meeting, discussions, conferences, etc. related to our topics to move them forward, to inform the public and get them involved and participating. Particular event would be developed by each committee, and publicized in conjunction with the Education and Awareness committee (EAC).

• The role of the EAC was discussed. It was agreed that each topic committee would be responsible for developing their own publicity and the EAC would help in its distribution and coordinate the publicity efforts of all the topics. In addition, we would continue to maintain and update our Wiki as a principal information source about EEP 2020.

Budget

• Allen Stryczek spoke with Don Cortelyou at Bridgeview Bank about the possibility of them awarding us a grant of about $3500 to fund printing of our Final Plan at the end of the year. The bank seemed willing to accept a proposal, and the amount did not seem to be out of line. Based on this preliminary discussion, Tom developed and distributed a preliminary budget draft for comment and discussion. The budget essentially covered only modest anticipated out-of-pocket expenses for carrying out our Plan for 6 months or so, and was in line ($4,270) with the discussion Allen had had at the bank. Allen later reported that there had been changes in senior bank management and Don was not as encouraging as first indicated.
• Tom's preliminary budget had shown the following:

• • Printing was for the tri-fold brochure, handouts for each of the topics for distribution at meetings, and other materials. **It was proposed that we purchase several (4) larger signs that would have our name and contact info on them, and space for a flyer-of-the-month. These would be placed at prominent locations in the community to serve as one way to publicize our events.
  • Also requested was money to cover the venue, honoraria, program, refreshments, etc. costs of four larger meetings at $175/meeting.
  • There are many excellent brochures related to our topics that would be very useful to have available for distribution. $500 was in the budget to cover the purchase of stocks of these brochures.
  • Theresa, a design consultant, said that she would be willing to work on a design for an EEP 2020 postcard.

Management

• The budget discussion led to a wide-ranging discussion of the EEP Plan coordinating committee, its organization and its functioning. Anne indicated that David Rowe, ECC Exec. Dir., had agreed that we could accept and disperse donations and grant funds through them, being an ECC committee. Do we need a fund raising and grant solicitation committee? A part-time Exec. Director? Tom said that he would handle the finances. Sharon said that her husband might be able to put links on our Wiki to enable people to donate money to us (through Pay Pal?). Most of the topics discussed would involve the solicitation of funding at a higher level, identifying possible funding sources, and writing the necessary proposals. The need to form a fund raising committee was agreed on, with membership to be determined.

• It was decided to have an ad hoc committee draft a budget for presentation at the next meeting and to proceed with requests for funding from community banks. Peter, Allen Anne, Mike, Sharon and Tom expressed a willingness to serve on the committee.

Other business There was a brief discussion of upcoming meetings where the EEP 2020 Plan would be outlined or presented. Block Clubs will be approached to give time to committee members to discuss the Plan as well as encourage residents to participate in the process. Tom continues to participate in the various lecture series sponsored by Loyola and the Rogers Park Transition Town group. Both advertise their environmental and sustainability lectures within Edgewater.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:30.

Respectfully submitted: Tom Murphy

The next meeting is scheduled for Thurs., May 14th at the ECC offices at 8:00 AM. __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Edgewater Environmental Plan Meeting: February 12, 2009 Minutes Minutes of February 12, 2009 Environmental Plan Monthly Meeting (At Edgewater Community Council (ECC) offices 6044 N. Broadway, Chicago, IL 60660)

Attendees: Adam Burck, Helen Cameron, Anne Comeau, Brian Cummins, Jared Desecki, Peter Locke, Tom Murphy, Mike Johnson, Helen Murtaugh, David Rowe, Ingo Soeding, Jen Walling, Allen Stryczek,

1. Welcome & Introductions:' The meeting was called to order at 8:00 a.m. by Tom Murphy and introductions were made. New attendees were: Adam Burck, Director of the Edgewater Development Corporation; Jared Deseki, Community Outreach Coordinator for Rep. Osterman and Helen Murtaugh, Chair of ECC’s Education Committee

2. Publicity Committee (Education and Awareness) Report:

a) Edgewater Environmental Plan Launch - March 12, 2009 at Emanuel Congregation; 5959 N. Sheridan Rd.; Chicago; 7:00 to 9:00 pm

• Edgewater Community Council’s February Newsletter featured an article regarding the event
• Edgewater Development February Email Release included the announcement regarding the launch and a link to the Wiki www.edgewater2020.org
• Media outlets were contacted by Jared Desecki and a formal letter to CAN TV for their attendance was released over Tom Murphy’s signature. (CAN TV has announced their intention to attend)
• Press Releases were drafted and approved. Timing for release was February 17th with another set of press releases going out closer to the event. Jared will field and filter questions and refer any questions he cannot answer to the appropriate committee chair.
• Jared circulated the draft of the event Flyer. He indicated that he will add the Environmental Plan logo and that the color process will try to save ink use as environmentally friendly recommended. Comments were solicited and a revised draft will be sent via email for final approval before printing, and then distribution by volunteers to businesses and community groups for posting. The flyer will also be used as an attachment for community-wide emails in March announcing the event.

b) General Publicity Updates

• The Wiki has been recently updated with both the Education and Awareness Committee’s and the Alternative Energy Committee’s plan and goals
• Community groups, councils and public officials have been approached to either share their email lists with the Environmental Plan committee or to provide links for our informational releases.
• We request that the Publicity Chairs (Helen Cameron/Mike Johnson) receive from the other Planning Committees any announcements, scheduled meetings, ideas about how Edgewater residents can participate in the Plan, etc. so they can track and help with any needed publicity.
• Edgewater Community Council’s website will be the Plans friendly link for residents to read announcements, flyers, sign up for emails and volunteer for Environmental events. It was suggested that there be a general email address on ECC’s website so the public can ask questions e.g. something like info@edgewater2020.org In addition it was also suggested that the website include a Frequently Asked Questions segment regarding the Environmental Plan and subjects relating to the Subjects we are covering.
• Helen Cameron mentioned she was meeting with Shannon of Green Events and would bring up their possible involvement with this project.
• TriFold Brochure- This Brochure's purpose is to briefly explain to the general public, the Edgewater Environment Plan’s purpose, mission and goals. A draft was circulated by Brian Cummings. Comments and suggestions were solicited and the PDF version was finalized for printing. Enough copies will be ready for handout and distribution at the March 12th Launch, the uncommon ground green event on April 9th and the North Lake Shore Earth Day event on April 25th.
• The Sustainable Community Series at Loyola which is also co-hosted by ECC and 49th Ward GreenCorps continues. Next lecture on February 17th regarding Recycling. Jen Walling is one of the speakers. (This was the evening of the regular ECC Board meeting so some Plan members were unable to attend) The series, as well as any other Environmental events involving Plan members is included in the Current Events section of the wiki and will eventually also be on the ECC website

3. Environmental Plan Launch – Focus & Purpose of Presentations

Tom Murphy circulated the brief outlines he received from some of the committees. There was some confusion regarding the purpose of our presentations and the outcome we wanted to achieve. It was felt that this needed to be pinned down before the participants could set up their presentations. Logistics were also a concern. What follows is a summary of the results of the committee’s discussion:

Our purpose is to encourage residents to support, as well as to volunteer, in planning to turn Edgewater into a model green community within Chicago. Each of our ten committees is focused on specific actions that can be taken in order to reach that goal. It was determined that a chair from each committee give a short presentation on their subject area, in order to acquaint the audience with what is being planned, and encourage their participation. The following lists the Environmental Topic and those individuals currently identified as a presenter (not necessarily in the order of the March 12th presentation):

• Education & Public Awareness – Mike Johnson
• Energy Efficiency – Tom Murphy
• Resources: Reduce, Re-Use, Recycle – Jen Walling
• Green Schools – Peter Locke
• Alternative Energy – Mike Johnson
• Cleaning the Neighborhood – Allen Stryczek
• Transportation – Ingo Soeding or Jason Liechty
• Planning & Development – Adam Burck or Tina Travlos Nihlean
• Water & Air Resources – Tom Murphy
• Parks & Greening – Anne Comeau

We agreed that the presentations would be more powerful if we used PowerPoint slides (possibly with a few pictures or simple graphs if necessary) as visual aids.

Our goal for each presentation is to

• Give a quick definition of the purpose of the particular subject [example - Energy Efficiency], so the audience knows why we have included this environmental issue as part of our planning to turn Edgewater into Chicago's model green community.

• What has the committee done so far: that may include a quick list of their goals and/or strategy

• List the benefits to Edgewater and to participants (or, as Tom said, what's in it for me)

• Provide the audience with ideas of what they can do and ask for their participation. (They will be handed an agenda at the Registration Table, and Harry will ask them to take notes to hand back to us, or to keep as reminders for later action, or for discussion at the tables)

Our Desired Outcome - Increase the public’s awareness of the Edgewater Environmental Plan and get their commitment to take supportive action: in the planning process, individually at home, or in their businesses

Jared Desecki volunteered to put the PowerPoint presentations into one deck for consistency. He thought it would be easiest for everyone if, when compiling their slides, to do so on a blank sheet (or one with no background added). There will be a screen available and Mike Johnson indicated that he could bring the PC projector since the Congregation does not have one. Tom Murphy asked that each Subject’s presentation be submitted to Jared by March 1st so he can get the deck ready for the March 5th dry run.

Because we want to use the back end of our available meeting time to engage the audience in one on one discussions at each Subject‘s Table, we agreed to set time constraints and will give Harry the guide and other guests who may comment, a heads up

4. Environmental Plan Launch: Setting the Stage & Timing of Meeting,

• Introductory Segment: As moderator Harry will start between 7:05 and 7:10 (people will be coming in and getting settled, so we have to be realistic) and he will give a 3 minute Intro on why Edgewater is responding to the call to become more energy efficient and environmentally friendly.

a) Intro Tom Murphy [Edgewater Community Council Mission & Purpose of Plan - 5 minutes],

b) Intro Suzanne Malec McKenna [re Chicago Action Climate Plan - 4 minutes],

c) Intro Mary Ann Smith and/or other official(s) attending- [Comment on their supporting actions - 4 minutes],

The notes indicated that we allocate around 15 minutes total for this introductory segment - that brings us to 7:30 since we know there will be some run over

• Presentations: Harry will then Introduce each subject's presenter [1 minute for the intro and to get the speakers up to the podium and ready]

Note: Harry asked if they would provide him with a 2 or 3 line bio so he know who he is introducing) and

Harry will also remind the audience that follow up questions and discussions should be held and taken to the Topic tables for the break out after the presentations [At the Registration Table - We will hand out the agenda on recycled paper for the audience to use for notes or comments to the committees]

He will keep tabs on the timing [we have allocated approximately 3 minutes for each speaker]:

• Timing: With the Introductary segment and the Speaker's presentations - The total time used should take around 40 -45 minutes. That brings us to 8:15 or so. As a wrap up, perhaps Harry can give the audience a challenge: e.g. Identify what are the two things you think you can do? One to take home with our information; and then one leave with us as a commitment – with or without your contact information. Then the audience will be directed to the Subject Tables for follow up and discussion with committee members.

• Closing The Congregation expects us to finish and close up by 9:00 pm. Refreshments will be available after the presentations are finished so as to get people seated and the event started close to time. Registrations, however, will be taken before the start of the meeting at an entry table as mentioned previously.

Also as indicated, Presenters will meet for a dry run on March 5th (we will need to confirm the ECC conference room). We ask that Mike Johnson [or another speaker if he is not able] bring their PC & projector for the dry run so we can make this as close to the real thing as possible and get any kinks out beforehand. . The next meeting of the Committee (after the March 5th dry run) will be the morning of March 12th 8:00 a.m. at the ECC offices on Broadway.

The meeting adjourned at 9:30 a.m. Respectfully submitted: Anne Comeau

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Edgewater Environmental Plan Meeting; January 8, 2009 Minutes

Minutes of January 8, 2009 Meeting (ECC offices 6044 N. Broadway, Chicago, IL 60660) Attendees: Rae Ann Cecrle, Cynthia Kasper, Ginger Williams, Peter Locke, Tom Murphy, Mike Johnson, Kimberlee Guenther, Sharon Metzger, Marshall Eames, Gina Lettiere, Killian Walsh, Jen Walling, Allen Stryczek, Anne Comeau

• 1. Welcome & Introductions:

The meeting was called to order at 8:00 a.m. by Tom Murphy and introductions were made. New attendees included Cynthia Kasper from Rogers Park and Marshall Eames and Gina Lettiere from Loyola University Chicago.

• 2. Loyola’s Sustainability Class

Professor Jeremy Brooks released the finalized reports on the Edgewater area surveys that were done for the class’ Fall, 2008 semester. We will post on the Wiki, those select surveys identified by Professor Brooks as being most thorough and relevant. They contain information on the following topics:

• • a) Alternative Transportation – i) CTA Survey ii) Bicycle Usage survey,
  • b) Schools - Environmental Survey and Potential Grant Recommendations,
  • c) Sustainable Food Availability (Local/Organic/Urban Agriculture plots),
  • d) Parks & Green Spaces Survey, Map and Photos,
  • e) Alternative Energy Survey

The current semester’s class contains approximately 80 students and planning for their research projects has been discussed. This class will continue to follow through on the work done for the Edgewater Green project with specific focus areas determined by Professor Brooks. Anne and Allen will be making a presentation to the class on Wednesday January 14th to acquaint them with Edgewater and the goals of the Environmental plan. Peter Locke (LEED ND/Sustainability Concepts) and Mike Johnson (Alternative Energy/Solar & Small Wind) indicated their willingness to present and to mentor the students in their fields. The class teaching assistant, Cindy, will set up a group Facebook site for the students to use as they work on each of the team projects and surveys. Our committee will have access to the site as well and will assist the teams when requested.

• 3. Wiki

The Minutes of the monthly meetings are now on the Wiki. Also under FAQ, there are steps outlined on how to attach documents to the site. As each committee formation is completed, names should be added under each topic and meeting results on the current and future actions being recommended should also be included by the Chairs.

• 4. Topic Committees:

Progress on each of the 10 subcommittees was also discussed. Many have identified their committee members and will be meeting this month (if they have not already) to document where the Edgewater is now with respect to each of the topics and to start discussing future actions. The question was asked if the committees would benefit from the use of a map.

• • a) Recycling/Resource: Jen Walling announced that there will be a committee meeting on January 12th. In addition to Killian, Sara and Ginger – Jen has recruited a number of other individuals who want to work on strategies and actions for reducing consumption, re-using where possible and recycling resources.

• • b) Involvement with other ECC standing committees was explored in the last month. (Planning & Development, Education, and Transportation). We are hopeful they will collaborate and share their plans/progress with our group since each of them has been working on environmental issues relating to their fields. At this time, the ECC Transportation Committee has shared their 2009 goals and the Education Committee chair has provided information on school contacts. Tom Murphy, Allen Stryczek and Anne Comeau will continue to expand cooperative efforts with these committees and will explore discussions with similar groups outside of ECC (Chambers, Development Corporations, Religious groups, etc.) so that business or institutional groups in the entire community have the opportunity to be represented. Rae Ann commented that it is important that we focus on financial feasibility and business growth opportunities, otherwise in this economy; businesses will be reluctant to make changes.

• • c) Green Business Success Stories: On January 16th Tom Murphy and Anne Comeau will meet with Sara Dinges of Andersonville Development Corporation to discuss Eco-Andersonville’s various successful green business initiatives and certification campaign. Andersonville is a long established neighborhood with multiple successful businesses and restaurants that encourage residents to shop locally. ADC has expressed a willingness to share some of their methods & strategies with other areas of the community.

• • d) Water/Air Quality group chaired by Tom Murphy may be supported by research being done currently at Loyola. Marshal Eames commented that they have been collecting air particulates and are looking for a grant to do monitoring of air quality throughout the area. Tom will contact Martina Schmeling for more information and to determine what support & cooperative effort we can supply. In addition Eve Pytel of the Mayors Caucus and an assistant director of Clean Air Counts should be able to provide help and detailed information. Mike Johnson recommended a couple of contacts to Tom for background and potential assistance in determining plans and actions regarding storm water runoff

• • e) Alternative Energy Mike Johnson, the Chair of this committee, indicated that he will be hosting a meeting of his Illinois Solar group on January 24th - will discuss the Environmental Plan and recruit members to set up informational modules for use with future and potential buildings that might convert to or use alternative energy. He also mentioned that businesses such as Dominicks and Jewel were potential solar energy users. He is working with Ernie Constantino on the Green Roof project and may ask for one of the Loyola Class teams to work on a survey to determine the interest, potential roadblocks to that effort. Finally, there are buildings in the ASCO area that are interested in Solar Energy, but need to educate their members and provide information on cost vs. value before any initiatives are voted upon. Mike will re-establish contact with the two individuals who were charged by the boards of two of the condo buildings to look into Solar Energy to determine the support they need. (Education, publicity/presentations, graphs, legislation, grant information)

• • f) Education & Awareness Committee: Helen Cameron & Mike Johnson have agreed to co-chair. They will reach out to Jay Delany of the Edgewater Chamber to also participate. Meeting of the Committee will be held at Uncommon Ground on March 12th. The group will complete its current and future status and goals. Their charge is to educate the public on the actions being taken by the Edgewater Green volunteers. The focus will be on Edgewater but the messages will be broad enough to reach outside the local community. The committee will work to:
    • i) Publicize meetings and events sponsored by the umbrella committee or each group
    • ii) Establish an email list (various groups and entities will be asked to share their lists)
    • iii) Establish a media contact list including newsprint and radio outlets
    • iv) Set up and print a bulletin or brochure simply explaining what we are doing and recruiting volunteers. (Explore pro-bono design and printing) Distribution will be broad.

ECC’s Communication Committee member Mike Bergman will be contacted to help coordinate the communication effort and help work out the Education & Awareness Committee’s utilization of the ECC website and Constant Contact communication feature to put out information on the Plan.

• • g) Schools: Peter Locke, the Chair, reported that the team is still being worked on; and that the Green Teams in the Schools are being contacted. Also, the Wiki has been updated so that each designated person in a particular school can go in and update what they are doing. Peter is on the citywide CPS environmental committee chaired by Suzanne Carlson and their plan is still under development. Loyola has brought over their biodiesel lab to Senn High School in collaboration with their Science Department.

• • h) Cleaning the Neighborhood: Allen confirmed that he has recruited the following for his group: Tom Jerome (SSA26), Conrad Suerth (Streets & San), Ellen Shephard (Andersonville Chamber), Pat Hennigan (40th Ward), Rich Norman (Senn), Rae Ann Cecrle (ECC/Edgewater Chamber), William Curtin (Loyola), and Laurintina Barrerra (local cleaning activist).

• • i) Recruitment to Action Experts outside of the Edgewater Community may be asked to sit on some of the committees in order to gain their perspective and assistance. This is especially true in those areas where technical knowledge, legislative awareness and environmental backgrounds would be helpful to meeting our green model goal for Edgewater.

• 5. Lecture Series at Loyola: Building a Sustainable Community (Held at Simpson Hall) Flyers & Email Blasts to be released giving details on the topics to be discussed, prior to each lecture:
  • • Saturday, January 17th 10 a.m. - 12 Noon – Alternative Transportation Panel Discussion
    • Tuesday, February 17th – 7-8:30 p.m.
    • Saturday, March 21st – 10 a.m.- 12 Noon

• 6. Environmental Plan - Community Meeting, Thursday, March 12th 7-8:30 p.m. at Emmanuel Congregation 5959 N. Sheridan Rd. (Parking is available). Publicity regarding the presentation and its relevance to residents will be key to drawing an audience. Mike Johnson and Helen Cameron will meet Monday, January 12th to begin planning publicity. Jen Walling indicated that Sen. Steans office has interns that can assist in designing flyers etc. Details are as follows:
  • a) Each committee will give a short summary report on the current status of the Topic and, if possible, set forth suggestions for future initiatives. It would help to include visuals such as a chart or graph of bottom line savings vs. costs if residents or businesses institute the changes being discussed.
  • b) We may survey the audience for reactions. Allen/Peter are exploring the use of hand held devices
  • c) Sign up sheets for future actions, or to join committees, will be at the registration table.

• 7. UnCommon Ground Eco-Mixer: Thursday, April 9th 6 to 8:00 p.m.

Helen indicated that they will probably draw a different audience from the one going to the March community meeting since their Mixers are well established but have a wide and younger audience. They will probably set up the event with individuals tables for each of the committees so that there can be socializing and face to face discussion regarding each of the topics. There will be cocktails and perhaps some music as well.

• 8. North Lake Shore Earth Day: Saturday, April 25th at Loyola University Edgewater Green agreed to volunteer to make a presentation and/or participate on a panel. It was also decided to share a table with ECC/Edgewater Beautiful

• 9. Green Fest at Navy Pier: Saturday and Sunday, May 16th & 17th No involvement, just a mention.

• 10. LEED ND - Mike and Peter reported that the most recent update is going through its member review and input round. Mike thought the comment period was closing within the week. Our group had hoped that the process would help focus LEED toward evaluation criteria being available for established urban environments. At the current time, most of the points for evaluation are for new communities or construction projects.

The meeting adjourned at 9:30 a.m. Respectfully submitted: Anne Comeau ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Jan 8 2009 Agenda

EdgewaterGreen: Environmental Sustainability Plan Meeting December 11, 2008 Minutes

Attendees: Helen Cameron, Rae Ann Cecrle, Anne Comeau, Sara Dinges, Mike Johnson, Peter Locke, David Rowe, Ingo Soeding, Allen Stryczek, Jen Walling, Sharon Metzger, Kimberlee Guenther, and Ginger Williams.

The meeting was opened by Anne Comeau (standing in for Tom Murphy who was out of the country), and each person briefly introduced themselves.

Each of the chairs of the 10 sustainability topics reported on their progress. Anne Comeau strongly encouraged each chair to post the reports they presented to their Topic area in the Wiki, and to also have a prepared report listing the members of the committee and the current state of affairs for the topic by the January 8 meeting:

• For “Cleaning”, Allen Stryczek distributed a report indicating that 4 of the committee members have been identified, and that a draft of the current status is in process.
• For “Resources”, Jen Walling volunteered to become the new chair, and Ginger Williams and Sara Dinges offered to assist with this.
• For “Transportation”, Ingo Soeding indicated that he would be in contact with those on the ECC Transportation Committee, the CTA, I-Go Car Sharing, the Loyola intern working on Transportation / Bicycle studies, and Tom Samuels who is interested in walk ability. Auto emissions continue to be a major concern.
• For “Energy Efficiency”, Tom Murphy was in Peru, and has worked with Marshall Eames of Loyola on a university-community presentation on Tuesday, December 16. Allen Stryczek circulated a related survey developed by Michael Perry of Senator Steans office, and Ingo Soeding and Peter Locke offered to follow-up with suggestions for enhancing the survey.
• For “Planning and Development”, Tina Travlos Nihlean had mentioned to Allen Stryczek the evening before that she looks forward to having a transition meeting with the P&D group together with Peter Locke and Allen Stryczek. Allen also indicated that P&D should include Andersonville (Sara Dinges) to ensure that the scope covers all of our Edgewater Community.
• For “Water and Air”, Tom Murphy was in Peru. Allen Stryczek that he had heard from Loyola President Fr. Garanzini the evening before that this was a major area of emphasis with the Loyola CUERP area.
• For “Alternative Energy”, Mike Johnson indicated that he was pulling the committee together to discuss solar, wind, geothermal considerations for Edgewater. Joey Feinstein is working with Mike on solar energy in schools. Allen Stryczek indicated that he would forward contacts for solar energy interest at Senn HS, at Loyola’s Natural Science Department, and at the Waldorf School.
• For “Education” Helen Cameron discussed Uncommon Ground’s plans for “green room” mixers – on an every other month basis at the 1401 W. Devon location. The need to have a master list of community members interested in the environment was stressed. Allen offered to send Mike Johnson and Helen Cameron a copy of the current monthly “Edgewater Beautiful” calendar of events.
• For “Schools”, Peter Locke reported progress with Senn High School, and his involvement with the CPS green committee. There will be an off-line conversation with Helen Cameron and Mike Johnson to avoid potential overlap with the “Education Committee.”
• For “Parks and Greening”, Anne Comeau presented a detailed report of existing Parks Green Spaces & Public Art in Edgewater. A working Topic committee has been formed and has had an initial meeting. The Committee’s report outlining specific steps to be initiated in 2009, including timelines, was also distributed. This group seems to have made the greatest progress so far.

Ingo Soeding indicated that he would follow-up with Reggie Griffin on areas of potential overlap within the various sub-committees – including 1. The distinction between the schools and the adult education committee. 2. A determination of where “Food” would fit in the committee structure (mentioned by Allen to Ingo after the formal conclusion of the meeting)

Anne Comeau, Peter Locke and Allen Stryczek reported on the great progress made by the 85 students in Jeremy Brooks’ class. The student reports should be available by the end of this week, and will be posted on our www.edgewater2020.org wiki. Peter Locke indicated that he would explore getting 30 survey capture devices from Turning Point Technologies for a free 30 day trial.

Anne Comeau, Peter Locke and Ingo Soeding reported on the recent Sierra Club meeting this past Monday which discussed the Club’s interest in the Chicago Climate Action Plan and the plan developed to educate the public and encourage grassroots support for its active implementation & funding by the City Council. Ingo indicated that the first step discussed was to take the $800 challenge shown on the Chicago Climate Action Plans website. Anne mentioned that Truman College, Oak Park, and Edgewater were groups represented at the Sierra Club meeting. Helen Cameron mentioned that the non-Edgewater Uncommon Ground location is a favorite meeting spot for several involved with Sierra Club.

Sara Dinges reported on significant progress that eco-Andersonville is having with their green business certification process. Eco-Andersonville will reach out in the next couple of months – a soft launch in the immediate time period, and a hard launch around Earth Day.

The next meeting will be from 8 to 9:30 AM on Thursday, January 8th. Thank you for your continued participation!

Respectfully submitted: Allen Stryczek

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Edgewater Environmental Strategic Plan Meeting November 13, 2008 Minutes

The meeting began at 8:05 and was opened by Tom Murphy. In attendance were Anne Comeau, Paula Companio, Mike Johnson, Helen Cameron, Jason Cox, Killian Walsh, Peter Locke, Reggie Griffith, Ingo Soeding and Tom Murphy (Coordinator-EESP).

People were comfortable with the Guiding principles and Scope documents. The name of the Plan and the included dates were discussed. Because of its association with the 50th anniversary of the Community Council, 2010 will be part of the name. There was considerable discussion about substituting green, environmental or sustainability for strategic.

Edgewater Green Plan Edgewater Environmental Sustainability Plan Edgewater Environmental Plan Edgewater Sustainability Plan

and others were suggested. Some felt that people understood what green and environmental meant, others thought that the plan went beyond environmental and that sustainability was the issue and the goal. No consensus was reached. At this meeting and the EB meeting that followed, Reggie indicated that a shortened “handle” for the Plan’s name would be helpful - as we publicize the Environmental Plan and the 50th Anniversary event – and he liked having either Edgewater Green or Green Edgewater to use on bulletins or pole banners as a quick eye-catcher, but left it to the Environmental Committee to decide which one is best.

The content for the March 12th meeting at the Armory was discussed. It was felt that we needed to present a Plan that included the current state and the future goals for each topic but that it would be presented as a working (preliminary) draft and it was open to new ideas and new participants. The format of the meeting was seen as an overall presentation of the Plan and then breaking into ten groups for further discussion of each topic. This means that we will need these sections for each Topic to be in draft form by the February 12th meeting. Helen Cameron of Uncommon Ground will work on the Education/Awareness Committee and offered to have one of the Green Session at their Restaurant focus on the Plan elements & encourage participation. Her event will be scheduled for April 9th – as part of the Earth month celebrations. The committee agreed that this would be an important follow up to the March meeting, with probably a totally different audience being reached.

The Wiki for the Plan was discussed and chairs were strongly encouraged to put their material on it. Tom indicted that there was some confusion on the wiki in finding appropriate help. You want to find the: [ http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents ] page. He said that on our Main Page to click on the ‘Media Wiki FAQ’ in the ‘Getting started’ section, then (on the ‘Manual: FAQ” page) click on the ‘user help’ link along the left side under ‘support’. To add to or to edit the wiki you need to first create an account (the first link on our Main Page: ‘Basic Instructions’). Remember to click ‘Save Page’ when finished to save your additions and changes to the wiki. Also, on the subject of the Wiki, Helen suggested that under each plan topic or on the most accessible area, the names of the committee members be listed, so it is clear on the wiki who is participating with what Team. That request will be posted on the FAQs page by Anne. (Done) FAQ also has a question regarding Tables and available space under each Wiki section and where the Team leaders should post their topic meeting or input schedules. (Question resolved)

Anne, Reggie and Ginger Williams attended the Graduate Student Forum at Loyola run by Patrick Green and found that one or more of the students would be interested in participating in our project. Killian Walsh is finalizing the grant request for a $100,000 grant from the US EPA to conduct a year-long education program about the EESP for seniors.

There was some discussion about the Eco-Andersonville Green Program developed by the Andersonville Development Corp. and focused on the businesses in the area, and how we can interact with it. Reggie gave the Committee an update on the EDC Meeting. He indicated that they do want to participate in the Edgewater Sustainability Plan and specifically on the Planning and Development Committee. Reggie will contact Tina Travlos, President of EDC and ECC Board member. Peter may continue to serve on the P&D committee, however, recruitment of other Development Board or Chamber members was not discussed at that time.

Respectfully submitted: Tom Murphy

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Minutes of Environmental Plan 2010: Meeting Otober 9, 2008

Attendees: Murphy, Stryczek, Griffin, Rowe, Locke, Johnson, Soeding, J. Hammer, M. Hammer, Cox, Dinges, M. Cameron, H. Cameron, Cercle, Comeau, Walsh, Walling

• Welcome New Participants: Introductions

• Overview of Current Plan Strategy: Allen Reviewed 10 Areas of Focus in order to bring all members up to speed. Described the Wiki and handed out the Summaries for review

a) Recycling. b) Planning & Development. c) Education and Awareness. d) Alternative Energy. e) Transportation. f) Parks, Natural Areas and Green Spaces. g) Water Resources. h) Energy Efficiency. i) Cleaning the Neighborhoods. j) Schools.

• Discussion of Chicago Climate Action Plan and our interest in following its model.

• Format of Plan Strategy for Each Area of Focus

a) Format on Wiki – Reviewed proposed format sent by Ingo Soeding. b) Allen Suggested that the subheadings include break outs by Individuals, Business, Government and Institutions. So that each stakeholder can be identified within the goals, implementation and planning process. c) Voted as Accepted with Allen's change – Authors will move Current Drafts Into New Format for November meeting and include further details on proposed steps to implement.

• Discussed Recycling Draft as an example for group. It was decided that the Blue Cart program should be included since action had already begun on that topic within Edgewater Beautiful and goals were already set in our ECC strategic plan for Blue Cart recycling improvement.

• Determine Future Actions on Committees and Recruiting Additional Participants. Although the following were briefly discussed, the new members requested some sort of summary or scope document for each of the Topics so they would have a better understanding of what our purpose and goals were for each.

a) Each Topic committee will have 5 or 6 members – see sign up sheet. b) Assign priorities and members to research. c) Topic committees will determine how, when, where they work on plan details and reporting back to Core Committee.

• Loyola Environmental Class Surveys – Allen to check with Professor Brook to determine which class surveys will assist in assessments or base line information for the ten topics.

• Community Presentations:

a) October 18th – Presentation at Block Club President’s Meeting. b) Community Meeting – Tentatively February or March.

• Next Meeting of Environmental Plan Core Commitee: Thursday, November 13, 2008 8:00 a.m.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Edgewater Community Council/Edgewater Beautiful Environmental Strategy/Sustainability Plan Minutes of Sept 11, 2008

Attendees: Murphy, Strycek, Comeau, Rowe, Griffin, Locke, Johnson

• Discussed Tom Murphy’s Sustainability Plan Draft:

a) We discussed whether the Action Areas or Topics are in order of Implementation (Realizing some overlap will occur). The Committee felt that all of the areas were important and should all be given the same priority.

b) We discussed how to set up teams or project leads for each Action or Topic Area

c) Project Leader to recruit volunteers and expand Action Areas or Topics to strategic steps and set timeline and tasks. We will work with other groups to collaborate on goals. (Some plan steps have been started by ADC, Edgewater Chamber or other Edgewater organizations including public officials)

• Update on Loyola’s Fall Environmental Class headed by Jeremy Brooks – Survey Concepts Have Been Chosen

a) There will be multiple teams which will need a person or persons from our group or ECC for questions that Professor Brooks cannot answer.

b) This week they begin an exploratory phase of developing Research questions in the eight major areas of survey interest.

Environmental Activity in Schools; Recycling; Parks; Alternative Transportation; Alternative Energy; Consumption Patterns; Urban Agriculture; Adult Education Re. Environment;

• Edgewater Beautiful/ECC Logo (the concept was created by Thom Green’s group) Two different renderings were reviewed by the group. Eventually, the sunrise logo with a white background was voted as the logo we would use on our communications and Wiki. Reggie will also be using this logo as part of his 50th anniversary of ECC publicity.

• Proposed Next Meetings for Environmental Strategy Group: October 9,2008 at 8:00 a.m. until 9:30 a.m.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Edgewater Community Council/Edgewater Beautiful Environmental Strategy Discussion - Minutes of Meeting August 28, 2008

Attendees: Tom Murphy, Allen Stryczek, Rae Ann Cercle, Anne Comeau, Peter Locke, Ingo Soeding, Mike Johnson,KIllian Walsh Reggie Griffin, David Rowe, Jim Pletz

• Introductions – Tom Murphy has accepted position as Coordinator of the Environmental Sustainability Plan. Other attendees introduced themselves and their affiliations.
• Presentation: “Sustainable Urbanism” Concept – Peter Locke: Peter reviewed the concepts outlined in the book. The group agreed that many of the ideas it contained could be converted for use in an existing urban neighborhood.
• Edgewater Beautiful Strategic Goals were discussed and Reggie explained his hope that the committee would engage the help of all the ECC board in order to reach the goal of turning Edgewater into a model green community within Chicago by 2010. This date is important to ECC since it is the 50th Anniversary of the organization. Allen & Anne had drafted a high level strategy focusing on ten topics: Recycling, Planning & Development, Education & Awareness, Alternative Energy, Transportation, Parks/Natural Areas and Green Spaces, Water Resources, Energy Efficiency, Cleaning the Neighborhoods, Schools

Reggie also acknowledged that the work on Sustainablility should continue beyond that date.

• Discussion ensued on:

a) How to Prioritize the Tasks and Actions needed to reach the goals identified for each Topic, b) Begin to create a more detailed Plan to meet those goals. It was suggested that a Summary of each Topic be developed and a Mission Statement describing our purpose also be prepared. Allen will start the draft of the Mission Statement and various committee members agreed to draft a summary of each topic for further discussion at the next meeting, c) Match up ideas and potential plan collaborators, fund sources, etc. (David Rowe and Jim Pletz will meet with various committee members to develop grant and funding proposals), d) Who can we enlist - individuals, as well as businesses and other public or private groups, to participate in order to effectively plan and implement the goals.

• Topic Teams: Members volunteered to work on summaries for specific topics in order to start the process. Tentatively, Allen volunteered to chair “Cleaning the Neighborhoods” committee, Tom Murphy requested Energy Efficiency as well as Water Resources (later expanded to Water & Air Resources) and Anne volunteered to chair the Parks/Natural Areas and Green Spaces, Mike Johnson indicated an interest in Alternative Energy as well as Education & Awareness; Ingo Soeding volunteered to placehold Transportation as a topic, and Peter Locke will work on Schools and placehold the Planning & Development and Recycling Committees.
• Expansion of the EESP Committee: As a group we want to reach out to more residents, area business chambers and development corporatio, and public officials to participate on the Core committee. Each participant made excellent suggestions and will contact the individuals personally. (Notify Allen or Tom to add the names and other contact information to the list)
• The Topic Summaries and Mission Statement are to be developed and circulated before the next meeting, so at that point we could discuss other volunteers as Chairs or members of these committee initiatives (Each topic will have a team set up to develop and implement the strategy and would report back to the Core committee regularly).
• Wiki - It was suggested that we set up a web site to post our documents and plans. Peter agreed to work on a Wiki and the title was eventually agreed to be: Edgewater2020 which acknowledges the long term committement to our strategy as well as our determination to follow (as much as is possible) the Chicago Action Climate Plan goals and objectives.
• Next Meeting will be September 11, 2008 at 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at the ECC offices 6044 N. Broadway.

Respectfully submitted: Anne Comeau