Minutes

Meeting Minutes 1/16/2015

10:00 – 11:50

Student Life Conference Room

Attendance

Governing Council Members present: Glenn Merrick, Kristi Heintz, Mike Francisco, Theresa Hornstein

General Members present:  Jane Marynik, Melanie Kelson

Guest Present:

Announcements

Registration now open for April 20^th, 2015 UW Madison Earth Day Conference “Hard Science, Tough Choices: Shaping the future on a rapidly changing planet”.  Jane and Mel will talk with Heather for Student Life travel funding.  The Council agreed to send 1-2 Council employee members through our budget if professional development funding is not available to them.  Any employees interested in attending should begin out of state travel process by next week to assure registration is still available.

New Business

The Council reviewed 2014-2015 and 2015-2016 Integrated Planning worksheets.  They identified 3 objectives for our current fiscal year, and reviewed the 6 possible objectives for next year.  The Council agreed Landscape and Stormwater Management Education was important, but should include a Campus Workday component and will be contingent on some type of grant funding.  The Council will also list Campus-Level Buildings, Benchmarks, & Beyond (B3) Reporting and Sustainability Purchasing and Use Policy Assessment and EPP Report.  Glenn motioned to put the 3 objectives forward with edits, Deanne seconded.  Motion carried unopposed.

Made in Minnesota (MiM) Solar Incentive Program grant applications are due in February.  Kristi will continue to keep solar opportunities on the radar, but not likely for this year.

Mel provided a Composting Pilot update.   Mel, Jane, and Kristi used the Welcome Week table to being promoting the new composting pilot.  Kristi wrote a blog that will go in next week’s Newsplash.  Mel and Kristi met with the Café staff to discuss their responsibilities and process for dealing with their pre-consumer food waste.  Kristi also emailed maintenance and talked with Mark about the process for weighing the compostables in that bin.  Mel, Kristi, and Jane will have an info table near the bin during lunch for at least the first few days of the pilot.  The pilot will run through spring break and will wrap up in time to gather data to be used in new contract bids.

Jane is working over the winter months to revive the Tree Campus USA application.  It will be due December 31, 2015.  It requires that we complete a tree care plan, and connect with a community partner and convene regular meetings.  Kristi will contact Judy Gibbs about being our partner member and also ask if the City has a tree care plan in place as a Tree City USA.

Theresa gave an update on the Garden Club and garden spaces.  Theresa reported there was a lot of student interest in her class for the Garden Club, and she’ll try to organize a meeting and put together some general “rules” or understandings and schedules for the garden.  The Council decided it would be a good idea to also meet with Student Senate about their plans for the Legacy Garden.

Kristi mentioned it might be a good idea to bring on an additional student employee to handle educational sign designs this winter while Jane is busy working on other projects.  The Council agreed, and Kristi will work with Jane to figure out what the additional role would include.

Ongoing Business

None.

Old Business

The Council discussed the third draft of the= purchasing and use policies and related procedures .  Kristi will meet with James to see if he agrees with changes we made.  Next step may include a mid-winter duty day break out session, where anyone interested can provide feedback.  From there, the policies/procedures will be forwarded to the LSC Policy Committee in April for larger campus review.

Work Group and Student Employee Reports

Policy and Procedure: employee reminders, education, and training needs (printing, recycling, supplies, computers, small appliance)

Carol, Kristi, Mel, Wade

Sustainability Reporting/Benchmarking: GGI, ACUPCC, MnSCU Sustainability Reporting, Superior Compact, B3, publicizing info

*Kristi, Aaron, Deanne, Bruce

Grants and Awards: Pre-grant drafts and collaboration with grant office on potential opportunities

                *Deanne, Kristi, Wade

Landscape Planning: annual flower planting, rainwater harvesting, no-mow areas, rooftop gardening

*Kristi, Mike, Aaron, Theresa, maintenance rep, Wade

Sustainability in Curriculum

*Theresa, Aaron, Kristi, Deanne, Glenn, Dick

-updates from Mel and Jane

-Garden Club update (Neldon, Aaron)

Budget                                                                                                                                                                     

FY15 Budget: $8,500 

Encumbrances to date:

MN Waste Wise membership 2014-2015: -$150

Boreal Natives-Swale/Ditch project: -$5,735

Airpark Disability Services (plastic bag recycling): -$208

Dan’s Feedbin: -$200

Menards: -$200

AASHE: -$280

IOS (footrests): -$263.20

Amazon (footrests): -$123

Eden Brothers (S-bldg wildflower seed): -$300

SWCD for RSPT annual dues: -$300

BALANCE as of today: $740.47

FY14-15 potential budget items

• LSC Earth Day costs
• UW Madison Earth Day travel costs
• Concourse lighting signage
• Ditch/swale/raingarden info signs
• Additional bike rack for main entrance
• Interpretive Trail bench, trash/recycling cans, exclosures
• Parking lot/rain garden info signs
• Sustainability kiosk
• MnSCU Sustainability Across Curriculum workshop host costs

Motions

Motion to adjourn: Theresa motioned, Mike seconded, unopposed

Next Meeting

Doodle poll showed no significant advantage to changing date/time of regular meetings.

Next meeting February 6^th at 10:00 in Student Life Conference Room.

Notes submitted to SC blog and LSC Employee Portal>Committees by Kristi Heintz

Meeting Minutes 11/7/2014

10:00 – 11:45

Student Life Conference Room

Attendance

Governing Council Members present: Deanne Roquet, Kristi Heintz, Theresa Hornstein, Wade Gordon

General Members present: Dick Haney, Jane Marynik, Melanie Kelson

Guest Present:

Announcements

Fall open house is today from 3:00-6. We’ll have a table.

Lake Superior Binational Forum’s Open Public Meeting, November 14, 2014 12:30-5:00, Legendary Waters Resort and Casino in Red Cliff, WI

2015 UMACS Conference will be in Bemidji. It’s June 18-19^th. Mark your calendars!

LSC’s MPCA stormwater audit has been re-scheduled for November 20^th.

New Business

The Council reviewed and updated its Work Groups. We removed the kiosk group and added a new Grants & Awards Work Group.

The Council discussed the S-building entrance and Jane updated the group on the winter prep work she has done. Kristi asked for a motion to purchase seed from Eden Brothers again for the S-building entrance and new swale planting in the spring.

Mel gave a wonderful update on the work she’s done so far on the LSC Composting Pilot Project. The presentation will be added to with pilot updates and numbers as we compile them, then used to address facilities and admin for process change request. Several topics to address: kick-off details, best way to inform our public of pilot and composting intentions, cost-benefit-savings, and timeline. We hope to start the pilot, with the new compost bin, in January. We hope to complete the pilot by the end of spring semester and have all information ready by the time new bids goes out for hauler contact in early summer.

Ongoing Business

Old Business

The Council has purchased 17 heated footrests over the last two years. The Council discussed purchasing responsibility going forward. After much discussion, the group decided to purchase just 3 more to fulfill the remaining to requests, then make the other prize “give-away” for green effort. The group also discussed our obligation to make information on cost and savings out. Kristi will put together a Newsplash and try to get a testimonial from one of the new adopters, and announce the final “give-away”.

Kristi forwarded a proposal to Wade, for the President’s Cabinet, to review membership in ACUPCC. Wade is trying to get it on the agenda for discussion.

Kristi and Glenn are working on the Council’s contribution to the Integrated Planning process. We hope to wrap it up next week and send to Mark.

Work Group and Student Employee Reports

Policy and Procedure: employee reminders, education, and training needs (printing, recycling, supplies, computers, small appliance)

*Carol, Kristi, Mel, Wade

Wade suggested we forward our concerns and draft policy regarding sustainable use and purchasing to the Climate Committee for review. Kristi will talk with Karen Ellingson and forward draft policies.

Master Facilities Plan

*Dick, Cliff, Glenn, Kristi, Theresa

No updates.

Sustainability Reporting/Benchmarking: GGI, ACUPCC, MnSCU Sustainability Reporting, Superior Compact, B3, publicizing info

*Kristi, Aaron, Deanne, Bruce

No updates.

Sustainability Kiosk: energy dashboard/demo, sustainability signage

*Duane, Rachel, Student Senate Rep

There was some discussion here about possible use of the ITV televisions. They are no longer being used, but the Council could propose sustainability content be posted there along with other campus announcements. Kristi will talk to Mat.

Landscape Planning: annual flower planting, rainwater harvesting, no-mow areas, rooftop gardening

Theresa, Mike, Aaron, Kristi, Jane, maintenance rep, Glenn

No updates.

Sustainability in Curriculum

*Theresa, Aaron, Kristi, Deanne, Glenn, Dick

No updates.

Grants & Awards: Preliminary pre-grant drafts and collaboration with grant office on potential opportunities

*Deanne, Kristi, Wade

Other SE Updates

-updates from Mel and Jane

Budget                                                                                                                                                                    

FY15 Budget: $8,500

Encumbrances to date:

MN Waste Wise membership 2014-2015: -$150

Boreal Natives-Swale/Ditch project: -$5,735

Airpark Disability Services (plastic bag recycling): -$208

Dan’s Feedbin: -$200

Menards: -$200

AASHE: -$280

IOS (footrests): -$263.20

BALANCE as of today: $1463.47

FY15 potential budget items

• UW Madison Earth Day travel costs (April 22nd)
• UMACS travel costs (June)
• Earth day costs (April)
• Concourse lighting signage
• Ditch/swale info signs (spring)
• Additional bike rack for main entrance
• Interpretive Trail bench, trash/recycling cans, exclosures
• Parking lot/rain garden info signs
• Sustainability kiosk
• MnSCU Sustainability Across Curriculum workshop host costs

Motions

Motion to purchase 3 last heated footrests from Amazon: Deanne motioned, Dick seconded, unopposed.

Motion to purchase $300 worth of seed from Eden Brothers: Dick motioned, Theresa seconded, unopposed.

Next meeting

December 5^th, 2014, 10:00 am, Student Life Conference Room

Notes submitted to SC blog and LSC Employee Portal>Committees by Kristi Heintz

Meeting Minutes 10/3/2014

10:00 – 11:45
Student Life Conference Room

Attendance
Governing Council Members present: Deanne Roquet, Kristi Heintz, Theresa Hornstein,
General Members present: Glenn Merrick, Jane Marynik, Melanie Kelson
Guest Present:

Announcements

Annual Minnesota Waste Wise meeting/Chamber of Commerce Business Conference will be held next Wednesday, October 8th at the Hilton Minneapolis. Attendance is $55 per person.
Fall open house is November 7th. We’ll have a table.
Duluth Solar tour and open house is October 4th, sponsored by Arrowhead Interfaith Power & Light, CERTS, Ecolibrium3, Sierra Club, and UMD Sustainability.
The Sustainability Council has 8 low energy heated footrests available from the Sustainability Council. Kristi asked Mat to put an announcement next week’s Newsplash.
Lake Superior Binational Forum’s Open Public Meeting is November 14, 2014 12:30-5:00, at Legendary Waters Resort and Casino in Red Cliff, WI. Complete agenda will be published on the Forum’s website by mid-October. Contact Kristi for more information.

New Business
AASHE annual membership dues are up and due November 1st. There was no quorum at today’s meeting, so Kristi will send an email vote request to pay the $280 dues. Deanne motioned to pay dues, Glenn secondedd.

At last meeting, the Council discussed including campus sustainability in the Integrated Planning documents. Kristi and Glenn will work on this document next week and email for Council review. It’s due to Mark M. by October 15th.

Ongoing Business
It’s time for Wildflower winterization in front of the S-building. The Council discussed best practice for doing this. It was agreed that the area should be mowed and bagged, black dirt and compost added, then cover with dried mowed material. Kristi will talk to maintenance about spreading black dirt for us.

Old Business
At last meeting, Kristi brought discussion to the group regarding metrics fatigue and the nature of multiple reporting formats and conflicting information. The Council discussed the value of the ACUPCC as a resource. After discussion and feedback from Al, the Council decided the best course of action would be to submit a recommendation to the Cabinet to un-file from the ACUPCC. Kristi drafted a recommendation to the President’s Cabinet, and the draft was reviewed at today’s meeting. Kristi will include those elements discussed, and email the draft to the Council for final review.

The Miller Greek Interpretive Trail re-opening ceremony received some great coverage. You can find the press release and news coverage on the Sustainability Council blog page.

Midwest Renewable Energy Association (Custer, WI) ran a Power Pack Program solar education hour called Power Hour at LSC on September 18th. It focused on residential PV evaluations. MREA approved installers discussed financing options and Minnesota Power discussed grant process. Attendance was good, with about 25 people. MREA hopes to hold another event in early winter.

Work Group and Student Employee Reports
Policy and Procedure: employee reminders, education, and training needs (printing, recycling, supplies, computers, small appliance)
*Carol, Kristi, Mel
No updates.

Master Facilities Plan
*Dick, Cliff, Glenn, Kristi, Theresa
No updates.
Sustainability Reporting/Benchmarking: GGI, ACUPCC, MnSCU Sustainability Reporting, Superior Compact, B3, publicizing info
*Kristi, Aaron, Deanne, Bruce
No updates.
Sustainability Kiosk: energy dashboard/demo, sustainability signage
*Duane, Rachel, Student Senate Rep
No updates.
Landscape Planning: annual flower planting, rainwater harvesting, no-mow areas, rooftop gardening
Theresa, Mike, Aaron, Kristi, Jane, maintenance rep
No updates.
Sustainability in Curriculum
*Theresa, Duane, Aaron, Kristi, Deanne, Glenn
No updates.
Other SE Updates
-update from Mel on composting project and Jane on landscape

Budget
FY1 Budget: $8,500
Encumbrances to date:
MN Waste Wise membership 2014-2015: -$150
Boreal Natives-Swale/Ditch project: -$5,735
Airpark Disability Services (plastic bag recycling): $-208
Dan’s Feedbin: -$200
Menards: -$200
BALANCE as of today: $2007.00

FY15 potential budget items
• Earth day costs
• Concourse lighting signage
• Ditch/swale info signs
• Additional bike rack for main entrance
• Interpretive Trail bench, trash/recycling cans, exclosures
• Parking lot/rain garden info signs
• Sustainability kiosk
• MnSCU Sustainability Across Curriculum workshop host costs

Motions
Motion to pay AASHE dues: Deanne, Glenn seconded

Next meeting
November 7th, 2014, 10:00 am, Student Life Conference Room

Notes submitted by Kristi Heintz

Meeting notes are also posted to LSC Employee Portal > Committees

Meeting Minutes 9/5/2014

10:00 – 11:45

E2028 Workforce Development Conference Room

Attendance

Governing Council Members present: Deanne Roquet, Kristi Heintz, Aaron McIntire, Theresa Hornstein, Heather Rantula, Wade Gordon

General Members present:  Dick Haney, Glenn Merrick, Carol Johnson, Al Finlayson, Jane Marynik, Melanie Kelson

Announcements

Kristi introduced of SC’s new student employees: Jane Marynik will be the student employee Groundskeeping Assistant and Melanie Kelson is the student lead on the campus composting pilot study.  Both gave an update on projects they’re working on.

Midwest Renewable Energy Association (Custer, WI) will offer a solar education hour called Power Hour at LSC on September 18^th in E2154 from 7:00-8:00.  It will focus on residential PV evaluations.  MREA approved installers will discuss finance. LSC agrees to help promote the event; Kristi is working with MREA’s representative on this and a campus announcement will be out soon.

Deanne presented an opportunity to attend the Recycling Association of Minnesota’s October 8^th conference in Bloomington.  She also identified free resources available through their website; some may be helpful in promoting the composting pilot study and other waste sorting initiatives.

Work Group and Student Employee Reports

Policy and Procedure: employee reminders, education, and training needs (printing, recycling, supplies, computers, small appliance)

*Carol, Kristi, Mel

Carol brought the recycling/trash in office space issue to the table.  Discussion followed about maintenance best practice.  The Council’s discussion ultimately lead to an opt-in scenario where employees take responsibility for getting rid of their own garbage cans to use a centrally located trash and recycling can.  Kristi will work with Mel on past progress of this project, and re-convene the work group.

Master Facilities Plan

*Dick, Cliff, Glenn, Kristi, Theresa

No updates.

Sustainability Reporting/Benchmarking: GGI, ACUPCC, MnSCU Sustainability Reporting, Superior Compact, B3, publicizing info

*Kristi, Aaron, Deanne, Bruce

Discussion about GGI and ACUPCC in New Business.

Sustainability Kiosk: energy dashboard/demo, sustainability signage

*Duane, Rachel, Student Senate Rep

No updates.

Landscape Planning: annual flower planting, rainwater harvesting, no-mow areas, rooftop gardening

Theresa, Mike, Aaron, Kristi, Jane, maintenance rep

Kristi gave a brief update on the Boreal Natives project and potential spring projects with Janice.  Jane updated the Council on the work she and Janice did over the past month.  Further landscape and budget discussion took place in Ongoing Business.

Sustainability in Curriculum

*Theresa, Duane, Aaron, Kristi, Deanne, Glenn

No updates.

Other SE Updates

Kristi shared interested Garden Club members with Aaron.  He and/or Neldon will follow-up with those individuals.

New Business

Kristi shared that she and Glenn have been working on an updated Interpretive Trail Guide.  Designed by Jean Kirwan, the Guide follows the same format as the trail signs.  We’ve also asked Janet to include some history of the trial and 2012 flood as well.  The Guide will be housed on the LSC Sustainability and Biology Department webpages as well as DuluthStreams.org.

The group showed interest in a re-opening of the trail event to showcase the new interpretive signs and bridges.  October 1^st (student success day) was suggested, and Deanne suggested we invite the mayor.  Kristi will work with Gary K on this.

The FY13 Greenhouse Gas Inventory was completed and submitted to ACUPCC in July.  Kristi brought discussion to the group regarding metrics fatigue and the nature of multiple reporting formats and conflicting information.  The Council discussed the value of the ACUPCC as a resource.  After discussion and feedback from Al, the Council decided the best course of action would be to submit a recommendation to the Cabinet to un-file from the ACUPCC.  Kristi and Glenn will draft a letter before the October meeting.

Theo forwarded a message pertaining to the Green Ribbon Schools new Post-Secondary Award opportunity.

As our Committee structure indicates, our Committee Structure Document is to be updated this meeting, the first of fall semester.  Membership was updated, our meeting minutes will now be posted to the employee portal as well as the SC blog, and new co-chairs were voted in for the 2014-2015 year.  Kristi and Glenn were nominated, and motions passed unanimously.

Aaron shared that Chad Johnson has extended an opportunity to anyone at LSC that might want to visit and tour Spirit Mountain Farm.  A Saturday in September would likely be the best time.  Kristi will send an email next week to gauge interest.

The Council would like to include campus sustainability in the Integrated Planning documents that both faculty and staff have been tasked with developing.  It’s due to Mark M. by October 15^th.  Kristi will send an email, and ask for volunteers to complete this document, next week.

Ongoing Business

As the Sustainability Council becomes more involved in campus landscaping projects, and has now funded two major projects, Kristi suggested the Council discuss landscaping budget responsibility.  Kristi has been careful to note purchase orders that pertain to campus landscaping versus other sustainability related projects.  After lengthy discussion involving budget allocations, Al suggested we take a look at spending from this year and anticipated projects for next year, and work some initiatives into our budget proposal for FY16.  He also cautioned against proposing expenditures for any budget outside our own.  Going forward, the Council will continue to approve purchases through voting, as it sees necessary, to move landscaping projects forward.

Old Business

Budget                                                         

FY1 Budget: $8,500 

Encumbrances to date:

MN Waste Wise membership 2014-2015: -$150

Boreal Natives-Swale/Ditch project: -$5,735

Dan’s Feedbin: -$200

Menards: -$200

BALANCE as of today: $2415

FY15 potential budget items

• Concourse lighting signage
• Ditch/swale info signs
• Additional bike rack for main entrance
• Interpretive Trail bench, trash/recycling cans, exclosures
• Parking lot/rain garden info signs
• Sustainability kiosk
• MnSCU Sustainability Across Curriculum workshop host costs

Motions

Deanne motioned to adjourn at 11:45, Glenn seconded.

Next meeting

October 3^rd, 2014, 10:00 am, Student Life Conference Room

Notes submitted by Kristi Heintz

Meeting Minutes 4/8/2014

1:00 – 2:00

Small Administrative Conference Room

Attendance

Governing Council Members present: Deanne Roquet, Kristi Heintz, Mike Francisco, Heather Grillo, Aaron McIntire, Heather Rantula, Wade Gordon

General Members present:  Bruce Wallis

Guest Present: Deanna Keller (PTK), Alyssa Heim

Announcements

The Intercultural Center is sponsoring its annual Sugar Bushing trip on April 24^th, group leaves LSC at 2:00 pm and will return at about 6:00.

Work Group and Student Employee Reports

Policy and Procedure: employee reminders, education, and training needs (printing, recycling, supplies, computers, small appliance)

                *Rachel, Carol, Kristi, Chad

No updates

Master Facilities Plan

                *Dick, Cliff, Glenn, Kristi, Theresa

No updates.

Sustainability Reporting/Benchmarking: GGI, ACUPCC, MnSCU Sustainability Reporting, Superior Compact, B3, publicizing info

                *Kristi, Aaron, Deanne, Bruce

No updates.

Sustainability Kiosk: energy dashboard/demo, sustainability signage

                *Duane, Rachel, Student Senate Rep

Steve Fudally and Kristi talked a bit about options.  Steve thinks it can be done in-house, he will arrange a meeting with Wade and Kristi soon.

Landscape Planning: annual flower planting, rainwater harvesting, no-mow areas, rooftop gardening

                Theresa, Mike, Aaron, Kristi, maintenance rep

The group met with Gary Chick on April 2^nd so discuss the LSC Landscaping Map and plans.  They identified some additional problem areas and made a plan for the spring and summer. 

Kristi has been in contact with Paula Castleman, and the DNR/DFD will allow a burn on the H-hillside, but it will need to happen on very short notice when conditions are just right.  Kristi will continue to work with Paula and will talk with Gary Adams as well.  We are looking for suggestions on planting the hillside this summer.  Kristi will reach out to Jeff West to do a site visit for ditch sedges as well as hillside suggestions. 

Kristi is working with maintenance to keep the muddy annual garden in front of the S-building as bearable as possible.  Stakes and rope will need to be placed around the perimeter to keep mud off sidewalks and out of buildings.  Motion to purchase items later in the meeting.

Sustainability in Curriculum

                *Theresa, Duane, Aaron, Kristi, Deanne, Glenn

The curriculum committee met on March 20^th, along with Jenni Swenson, Theo from the grants office and 2 PTK members.  The PTK members were set on putting together a greenhouse proposal, but Aaron met with Al yesterday and the outlook for a greenhouse on campus looks bleak.   More discussion on this topic at the May meeting.

Other SE Updates

Aaron is continuing to work on the café benchmarking project.  Kristi suggested PTK, shift their attention to helping Aaron with this project and expand it to utilizize the Real Food Challenge and the Real Food Challenge Calculator.  Additionally, Institute for a Sustainable Future put together this: ISF Lake Superior Local Food Purchasing Toolkit.  Both tools could be helpful to give our benchmarking project momentum.  Bruce was supportive of expanding our “local” purchasing beyond the compact area.  Kristi, Aaron, and Bruce will meet about this.

New Business

The Earth Day planning committee met on March 3^rd to continue discussions for Earth Day planning.  Kristi will ask Jean to create a poster for the meal, featuring vendors and where to buy.  The poster or another will feature the day’s schedule. Schedule below:

World Water Week is being recognized locally on March 24-25; collaborative events from CSS, UMD, UWS, and LSC are being organized by the League of Women Voters.  LSC will gather plastic bottles and create a garland chain on March 25^th in the Atrium.  Garden Club will make popcorn, we will show the movie Tapped or similar water focused documentary, and invite all students (through posters on the vending machines and facebook) to connect their bottles to the chain where images of the destructive nature of plastic in ecosystems will also be hung.  The garland will hang in the concourse until Earth Day. 

Ongoing Business

Old Business

Budget                                 

Motions

Considerable conversation occurred with most motions, all motions passed unopposed

Request for heated foot rest for the Administrative Assistant to the VP.  Wade suggested we purchase 3 at $52.64 each.  Deanne motioned, Mike seconded.

The bus to Silver Bay to tour Victus Farms.  Bruce motioned to pay for the $300 bus, Deanne seconded.

Bruce motioned to purchase compostable plates, cups, and napkins for 300 people Earth Day, up to $100, Deanne seconded.

Heather R. motioned to purchase 200 compostable hot cups and small plates for employee Development Day breakfast, Heather G seconded.

Deanne motioned to pay $75 for our Earth Day speaker, Chad Johnson, Mike seconded.  Kristi will work on his contact for services.

Deanne motioned to purchase posts and rope for S-bldg seeded area, up to $320, Kristi seconded.

Heather G. motioned to purchase the Interpretive Trailhead sign from ShelDon for $132, Deanne seconded.

Deanne motioned to put remaining Council funding toward bottle filling stations for the Student Services building and ERTC, Heather R. seconded.

FY14 Budget: $9,000 

Encumbrances to date:

MN Waste Wise membership 2013-2014: -$150

Open PO for Menards (landscaping supplies: azalea mulch, planter flowers): -$200

Open PO for Menards (Interpretive trail supplies) – $200

AASHE membership: -$280

Airpark plastic bag recycling program: -$208

Rene Fall (Int Trail GIS mapping): -$320

UMACS Kristi travel and registration: -$758.39

ACUPCC annual 2013-2014 membership: -$750

Eden Brothers (seed mix for S-bldg): -143.96

Grainger for faucet aerators: -$85

BALANCE as of 3/7/2014: $5918.65

FY14 potential budget items

·         Concourse lighting signage

·         Bottle filling station for ERTC (did this happen in FY13?) and downtown campus

·         Additional bike rack for main entrance

·         Outdoor recycling cans

·         Interpretive Trailhead sign

·         Interpretive Trail bench, trash/recycling cans

·         Parking lot info signs

·         Legacy: fencing for exclosures

·         Sustainability kiosk

·         MnSCU Sustainability Across Curriculum workshop host costs

Next meeting

May 2^nd, 2014, 9:00 am, Student Life Conference Room

Notes submitted by Kristi Heintz

Meeting Minutes 3/7/2014

9:00-10:30

Location: Student Life Conference Room

Attendance

Governing Council Members present: Deanne Roquet, Kristi Heintz, Theresa Hornstein, Mike Francisco, Heather Grillo, Aaron McIntire, Heather Rantula

General Members present:  Duane Timo, Dick Haney

Guest Present: Deanna Keller (PTK), Alyssa Heim

Announcements

Sustainable Twin Ports Early Adopter training will not run this year.  Dine Sustainably Twin Ports will take place in late April, during Homegrown, volunteers are welcome!

Work Group and Student Employee Reports

Policy and Procedure: employee reminders, education, and training needs (printing, recycling, supplies, computers, small appliance)

                *Rachel, Carol, Kristi, Chad

No updates

Master Facilities Plan

                *Dick, Cliff, Glenn, Kristi, Theresa

The work group met on February 24^th to further brainstorm sustainability proposals for inclusion in the Facilities Master Plan.  This time, the group focused more on building efficiency technologies and plans.  The full list was sent to Al for conversations with the contractors.  The list is attached to today’s minutes.  From this meeting, some broad needs were identified, including the need for a Landscape Plan and Annual Landscape Maintenance Calendar.  Kristi convened a meeting with the Landscape Planning Committee to discuss these plans further.

Sustainability Reporting/Benchmarking: GGI, ACUPCC, MnSCU Sustainability Reporting, Superior Compact, B3, publicizing info

                *Kristi, Aaron, Deanne, Bruce

No updates.

Sustainability Kiosk: energy dashboard/demo, sustainability signage

                *Duane, Rachel, Student Senate Rep

No updates

Landscape Planning: annual flower planting, rainwater harvesting, no-mow areas, rooftop gardening

                Theresa, Mike, Aaron, Kristi, maintenance rep

The work group met on March 3^rd to continue work on proposals submitted to the Facilites Master Planning consultants.  The group started to identify key areas on campus that needed landscaping attention or specific maintenance needs, both for asthetic purposes and structural.  After the meeting, Kristi drafted an LSC Landscaping Map through google, this map will be used to create an Annual Landscape Calendar and specific annual planting goals in the next month.

Sustainability in Curriculum

                *Theresa, Duane, Aaron, Kristi, Deanne, Glenn

Aaron reported that he’s been communicating the efforts of our group to PTK, and they are very interested in being part of the research needs that Jenni is looking for to bring the Sustainable Food Systems articulation track to LSC.  PTK is also interested in helping to secure funding or support for a greenhouse.  Theresa and Aaron have been working with Theo in the Grant Office to find potential funding sources.  Theo would like us to draft letters of intent for projects we’re hoping to secure funding in.  These letters will fall under the responsibility of the SC work group the most align with.

Other SE Updates

None

New Business

The Earth Day planning committee met on March 3^rd to continue discussions for Earth Day planning.  Kristi will ask Jean to create a poster for the meal, featuring vendors and where to buy.  The poster or another will feature the day’s schedule. Schedule below:

World Water Week is being recognized locally on March 24-25; collaborative events from CSS, UMD, UWS, and LSC are being organized by the League of Women Voters.  LSC will gather plastic bottles and create a garland chain on March 25^th in the Atrium.  Garden Club will make popcorn, we will show the movie Tapped or similar water focused documentary, and invite all students (through posters on the vending machines and facebook) to connect their bottles to the chain where images of the destructive nature of plastic in ecosystems will also be hung.  The garland will hang in the concourse until Earth Day. 

Ongoing Business

Old Business

Budget

Annual RSPT dues, of $300, are due soon.  Kristi outlined the benefit of RSPT to LSC.  This is a membership we budget for each year.  Theresa motioned to pay the dues, Dick seconded.  Motion passed unopposed.

FY14 Budget: $9,000 

Encumbrances to date:

MN Waste Wise membership 2013-2014: -$150

Open PO for Menards (landscaping supplies: azalea mulch, planter flowers): -$200

Open PO for Menards (Interpretive trail supplies) – $200

AASHE membership: -$280

Airpark plastic bag recycling program: -$208

Rene Fall (Int Trail GIS mapping): -$320

UMACS Kristi travel and registration: -$758.39

ACUPCC annual 2013-2014 membership: -$750

Eden Brothers (seed mix for S-bldg): -143.96

Grainger for faucet aerators: -$85

BALANCE as of 3/7/2014: $5918.65

FY14 potential budget items

·         Concourse lighting signage

·         Bottle filling station for ERTC (did this happen in FY13?) and downtown campus

·         Additional bike rack for main entrance

·         Outdoor recycling cans

·         Interpretive Trailhead sign

·         Interpretive Trail bench, trash/recycling cans

·         Parking lot info signs

·         Legacy: fencing for exclosures

·         Sustainability kiosk

·         MnSCU Sustainability Across Curriculum workshop host costs

Next meeting

April 4^th, 2014, 9:00 am, Student Life Conference Room

Notes submitted by Kristi Heintz

Meeting Minutes 2-7-2014

9:00-10:30

Location: Student Life Conference Room

Attendance

Governing Council Members present: Deanne Roquet, Kristi Heintz, Theresa Hornstein, Wade Gordon, Heather Grillo, Aaron McIntire, Heather Rantula

General Members present:  Al Finlayson, Carol Johnson, Duane Timo

Guest Present:

Announcements

The Nelson Institute Earth Day at UW Madison is April 22^nd.  Deanne will be going; students are encouraged to attend as well.

Kristi submitted our Energy conservation grant blog story to AASHE bulletin, it will be posted in next week’s issue

Work Group and Student Employee Reports

Policy and Procedure: employee reminders, education, and training needs (printing, recycling, supplies, computers, small appliance)

*Rachel, Carol, Kristi, Chad

No updates

Master Facilities Plan

*Dick, Cliff, Glenn, Kristi, Theresa

Al gave an update on the consultant meeting timeline and reported they were on campus this week for further discussion and will be back on February 26^th.  Al made sure there was a sustainability point in the Plan, and would like the SC to put together a more comprehensive list of building needs related to sustainability.  The Council began to put a list together; Kristi will convene a work-group meeting next week to brainstorm further.

Sustainability Reporting/Benchmarking: GGI, ACUPCC, MnSCU Sustainability Reporting, Superior Compact, B3, publicizing info

*Kristi, Aaron, Deanne, Bruce

Kristi worked on the GGI a bit over break and was able to enter all data from B3 and update year’s past.  Denise updated past institutional data and also entered data for the past 2 years.  Kathy sent data to Kristi, but she hasn’t had a chance to enter all of it yet.

Sustainability Kiosk: energy dashboard/demo, sustainability signage

*Duane, Rachel, Student Senate Rep

No updates

Grounds Maintenance/Campus Appeal: annual flower planting, rainwater harvesting, no-mow areas, rooftop gardening

Theresa, Mike, Aaron, Kristi, maintenance rep

No updates

Sustainability in Curriculum

Theresa, Duane, Aaron, Kristi, Deanne, Glenn

No updates

Other SE Updates

None

New Business

Kristi and Deanne updated the SC committee structure: members, Governing Council, and Council co-chair responsibilities.  The Council reviewed and approved the changes.  It will be posted on the blog.

An Earth Day met Friday, January 31st to discuss themes and ideas for Earth Day.  Chad Johnson also joined the conversation and is willing to serve as a speaker for the event.  The Council discussed the theme for this year, it will follow a zero-waste idea.   Bruce is willing to offer lunch again, and Todd from Thousand Hills may be interested in coming up to serve his all-beef, grass-fed hot dogs.   The Council will again provide compostable eat wear for the event.  The Council discussed using the lunch as a lure for the speaker, and perhaps showing a short video before the speaker to get conversations going.  After attending the speaker, students would receive a ticket for free-lunch.  Students felt like this was a fair option.  Other activities for the day will include campus clean-up,  poster sessions on mini-landfill project, compost-related activities like vermiculture demonstrations and perhaps and drawing to win a home compost bin.  We will also do a cell phone collection for CASDA-PAVSA, we’ll showcase our other ongoing recycling efforts (toner, soft plastic, hard plastic and will invite Johns Twin Ports Recycling to do a collection.  Water bottles from last year, shirts, and bags from year’s past will be used as thank-yous for volunteers for the day.  The planning committee will meet next Friday, February 14^th at 9:00 in the Student Life Conference Room.

Kristi mentioned that Glenn would like to take another field trip to Victus Farms in Silver Bay in April.  Deanne motioned the SC to fund Voyageur bus travel to Silver Bay for any students or staff that want to attend, Heather seconded the motion.  April 11^th was ste as a tentative date, Glenn will check with Mike at Victus to confirm.

LSC will be hosting the still tentative Sustainable Twin Ports full-day training sessions in March.  Kristi asked if the Council would be interested in supporting the training through printing workbook materials and purchasing binders for each trainee.  In return, any LSC employees that would like to attend the day-long training sessions would be welcome to sit in.  Theresa motioned up to $300 be spent on printing and binders, Carol seconded the motion.

Ongoing Business

Kristi submitted the STP-LSC project “Strategic Sustainability Planning to Synergistic Results” submitted for consideration for one of 5 annual AASHE Sustainability Case Study awards.  Stay tuned…

Old Business 

Budget                                            

FY14 Budget: $9,000 

Encumbrances to date:

MN Waste Wise membership 2013-2014: -$150

Open PO for Menards (landscaping supplies: azalea mulch, planter flowers): -$200

Open PO for Menards (Interpretive trail supplies) – $200

AASHE membership: -$280

Airpark plastic bag recycling program: -$208

Rene Fall (Int Trail GIS mapping): -$320

UMACS Kristi travel and registration: -$758.39

ACUPCC annual 2013-2014 membership: -$750

Eden Brothers (seed mix for S-bldg): -143.96

Grainger for faucet aerators: -$85

BALANCE as of 1/14/2014: $5918.65

FY14 potential budget items

• Concourse lighting signage
• Bottle filling station for ERTC (did this happen in FY13?) and downtown campus
• Additional bike rack for main entrance
• Outdoor recycling cans
• Interpretive Trailhead sign
• Interpretive Trail bench, trash/recycling cans
• Parking lot info signs
• Legacy: fencing for exclosures
• Sustainability kiosk
• MnSCU Sustainability Across Curriculum workshop host costs

Next meeting

March 7th, 2014, 9:00 am, Student Life Conference Room

Notes submitted by Kristi Heintz

Meeting Minutes 1-17-2014

8:30-10:00

Location: Student Life Conference Room

Attendance

Governing Council Members present: Deanne Roquet, Kristi Heintz, Theresa Hornstein,

General Members present:  Glenn Merrick, Dick Haney,

Guest Present:

Announcements

The Nelson Institute Earth Day at UW Madison is April 22^nd.  Deanne will be going; students are encouraged to attend as well.

Check out the Duluth Public Seed Lending Library, grand opening is on February 22nd!

The Lake Superior Sustainable Farming Association’s Annual meeting will be on January 25th from noon-4:30 at Peace Church in Duluth.

Work Group and Student Employee Reports

Policy and Procedure: employee reminders, education, and training needs (printing, recycling, supplies, computers, small appliance)

*Rachel, Carol, Kristi, Chad

No updates

Master Facilities Plan

*Dick, Cliff, Glenn, Kristi, Theresa

Dick gave an update on the Master Plan consultant meeting.  Cliff and Dick have put together maps and forwarded to the consultants for trail development potential.  Dick is working on some additional connections with City trails and will forward that information as well.

Sustainability Reporting/Benchmarking: GGI, ACUPCC, MnSCU Sustainability Reporting, Superior Compact, B3, publicizing info

*Kristi, Aaron, Deanne, Bruce

Kristi worked on the GGI a bit over break and was able to enter all data from B3 and update year’s past.  Denise updated past institutional data and also entered data for the past 2 years.  Kathy sent data to Kristi, but she hasn’t had a chance to enter all of it yet.

Sustainability Kiosk: energy dashboard/demo, sustainability signage

*Duane, Rachel, Student Senate Rep

No updates

Grounds Maintenance/Campus Appeal: annual flower planting, rainwater harvesting, no-mow areas, rooftop gardening

Theresa, Mike, Aaron, Kristi, maintenance rep

No updates

Sustainability in Curriculum

Theresa, Duane, Aaron, Kristi, Deanne, Glenn

Theresa reported she has been in conversation with Jenni about a potential land for the Food Systems articulation and also outlined some questions and concerns in an email to Jenni.  Jenni is still very intent on pushing this articulation through, although a timeline has not yet been established.

Other SE Updates

None

New Business

Deanne and Kristi visited Fond du Lac over break to talk with Bill Hilty about Co-hosting the next Sustainability Across the Curriculum Workshop.  He was very interested although both of us are concerned about the May date Ana and Erika have proposed.  The Council agreed it would be a time-crunch for faculty and would also lessen the chance we’d be able to get  student involvement.  Deanne will send a message to Ana and tell them we are very interested, but this year will not work for us and propose next year the workshop be scheduled perhaps in March.

The Business Office has twice requested a water bottle filling station for the S-building.  The Council supports purchasing a station if Gary Adams will have one installed.  Deanne will send an email to Gary.

Kristi and Wade worked on the FY15 Budget proposal and submitted a slightly lower request than last year.  We need to be proactive in utilizing funds each year to demonstrate the ongoing need.

An Earth Day committee will meet Friday. January 31st to discuss themes and ideas for Earth Day.  Deanne, Kristi, Theresa and Aaron will be part of the planning committee.  Kristi will invite Heather to the next Sustainability Council meeting to share committee ideas.

LSC will be hosting the still tentative Sustainable Twin Ports full-day training sessions in March.  Kristi will have more information about those trainings at next meeting.

Kristi mentioned the $30,000 conservation grant LSC received from Comfort Systems Duluth for the boiler upgrade project in both the main building and Art building.  Kristi did a blog post about it and forwarded the blog post to Mat for Newsplash.  It was not Newsplashed or mentioned in any campus correspondence.

Ongoing Business

Update SC Committee structure: members, Governing Council, and Council co-chair responsibilities (tabled until next meeting)

Old Business

The latest Sustainability Council AQIP Action Project initiated through the Sustainable Twin Ports Training titled “Early Adopter Project-Building Sustainability into Campus Process”, will be closed-out this month. (Kristi)

Budget

FY14 Budget: $9,000 

Encumbrances to date:

MN Waste Wise membership 2013-2014: -$150

Open PO for Menards (landscaping supplies: azalea mulch, planter flowers): -$200

Open PO for Menards (Interpretive trail supplies) – $200

AASHE membership: -$280

Airpark plastic bag recycling program: -$208

Rene Fall (Int Trail GIS mapping): -$320

UMACS Kristi travel and registration: -$758.39

ACUPCC annual 2013-2014 membership: -$750

Eden Brothers (seed mix for S-bldg): -143.96

Grainger for faucet aerators: -$85

BALANCE as of 1/14/2014: $5918.65

FY14 potential budget items

• Concourse lighting signage
• Bottle filling station for ERTC (did this happen in FY13?) and downtown campus
• Additional bike rack for main entrance
• Outdoor recycling cans
• Interpretive Trailhead sign
• Interpretive Trail bench, trash/recycling cans
• Parking lot info signs
• Legacy: fencing for exclosures
• Sustainability kiosk
• MnSCU Sustainability Across Curriculum workshop host costs

Next meeting

March7th, 2013, 9:00 am, Student Life Conference Room

Notes submitted by Kristi Heintz

Meeting Minutes 12/6/2013

9:00-10:30

Location: Student Life Conference Room

Attendance

Governing Council Members present: Kristi Heintz, Theresa Hornstein, Glenn Merrick

General Members present:  Glenn Merrick, Dick Haney, Duane Timo

Guest Present: Heather Williams

Announcements

none

Work Group and Student Employee Reports

Policy and Procedure: employee reminders, education, and training needs (printing, recycling, supplies, computers, small appliance)

*Rachel, Carol, Kristi, Chad

Kristi relayed the information Rachel compiled for UMD’s green office program.  The group through the idea had some great potential.  The next step will be to make the criteria more specific to LSC.  After those criteria are decided upon, the group can discuss rating protocol.

Master Facilities Plan

*Dick, Cliff, Glenn, Kristi, Theresa

Dick gave a report on the Master Plan consultant meeting.  Dick, Cliff, Theresa, and Kristi met with the consultants and discussed sustainability related ideas with them.  Trails and accessibility along with grounds maintenance schedules were discussed.  Cliff and Dick are putting together maps to forward to the consultants for trail development potential.

Dick also reported that he, Glenn and Kristi hiked the interpretive trail toward Trinity Road with Judy Gibbs from the City of Duluth.  They were looking for connector opportunities to the Superior Hiking Trail.  Trinity Road is a definite barrier, as access through the stream tunnel is limited, but Judy is looking at options on the east side of the road.

Sustainability Reporting/Benchmarking: GGI, ACUPCC, MnSCU Sustainability Reporting, Superior Compact, B3, publicizing info

*Kristi, Aaron, Deanne, Bruce

Kristi is working to clarrify and update past GGI data in the new Clean Air Cool Planet web application system.  Some data was improperly translated when the old excel format was uploaded.  Once that is complete, Al instructed Kristi to talk with supervisors of those who will be responsible for compiling data to discuss opportunities for collaborative data input.  Kristi hopes to have those discussions over semester break.

Sustainability Kiosk: energy dashboard/demo, sustainability signage

*Duane, Rachel, Student Senate Rep

Duane reported he is working on software options.  He will work on content over break and next month.  Kristi reported that she Steve Fudally has voiced concern for an open access touch screen format.  They’ll continue to work on options to limit access to intended site content.

Grounds Maintenance/Campus Appeal: annual flower planting, rainwater harvesting, no-mow areas, rooftop gardening

Theresa, Mike, Aaron, Kristi, maintenance rep

Kristi reported that the S-building seeding project was completed before it snowed.  There was some soil moved during the first snow’s plowing, but re-seeding will be a spring priority.

Neldon reported that he did some sapling and weed trimming on the rain gardens before winter as well.  He also completed some forebay sand removal.  There was about 2 bucket loads of sand removed.  He also noted that a screen should be placed at the outlet pipe to keep trash and other debris out.

Sustainability in Curriculum

Theresa, Duane, Aaron, Kristi, Deanne, Glenn

Theresa reported she has been in conversation with Jenni about a potential start date for course offerings in the Food Systems articulation.  Theresa will continue to update the Council on developments.

Other SE Updates

Neldon reported he found options for aerator adapters through Grainger.  We’ll get a final count and purchase enough to cover the Health and Science building faucets.

New Business

The Council reviewed the HLC comments from our STP AQIP update.  Overall, there were favorable comments and the last phase of the project will be reporting on the process of integrating sustainability into our Master Facilities planning document.

Downtown campus energy projects-tabled for next meeting (Wade)

Update SC Committee structure: members, Governing Council, and Council co-chair responsibilities – tabled for next meeting

Ongoing Business 

none

Old Business

ACUPCC Progress Report was submitted last month.  We’re still working to streamline the process and make the collection of more complete information a bit easier.

Kristi gave a lackluster report of the UMACS conference.  The next conference will be in 2 years at Bemidji State.

The group talked a bit about hosting the next Sustainability Across the Curriculum conference.  The group talked about funding, timing, and organization.  Further discussion at the January meeting.

Renee and Cliff finished the Interpretive and other trails mapping project. Cliff is working on measuring the trail distance, then Kristi will send the materials to Jean for design.  We hope to have the sign installed by spring.  Also, Kim Parmeter (LSC Foundation) has discussed the opportunity to use the trails for a snowshoeing fundraiser this winter.  Dick and Kristi have both talked with her and will continue to assist where needed.

Budget                                                                                                                                     FY14 Budget: $9,000 

Encumbrances to date:

MN Waste Wise membership 2013-2014: -$150

Open PO for Menards (landscaping supplies: azalea mulch, planter flowers): -$200

Open PO for Menards (Interpretive trail supplies) – $200

AASHE membership: -$280

Airpark plastic bag recycling program: -$208

Rene Fall (Int Trail GIS mapping): -$320

UMACS Kristi travel and registration: -$758.39

ACUPCC annual 2013-2014 membership: -$750

Eden Brothers (seed mix for S-bldg): -143.96

FY14 potential budget items

• Concourse lighting signage
• Bottle filling station for ERTC (did this happen in FY13?) and downtown campus
• Additional bike rack for main entrance
• Outdoor recycling cans
• Interpretive Trailhead sign
• Interpretive Trail bench, trash/recycling cans
• Parking lot info signs
• Legacy: fencing for exclosures
• Sustainability kiosk

Next meeting

January 17^th 2013, 9:00 am, Student Life Conference Room

Notes submitted by Kristi Heintz

Meeting Minutes 11/1/2013

9:00-10:30

Location: Student Life Conference Room

Attendance

Governing Council Members present: Deanne Roquet, Kristi Heintz, Mike Francisco, Theresa Hornstein, Wade Gordon

General Members present:  Glenn Merrick, Dick Haney, Bruce Wallis, Duane Timo

Guest Present:

Announcements

SC meeting with Facilities Master Plan Consultants will be November 4^th.  Cliff, Dick, Theresa and Kristi will represent the Sustainability Council.

UMACS is at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa: November 7-9.  Kristi will attend and present the Sustainable Twin Ports project and showcase the posters along with Duluth Coffee Company and STP flyers.

Work Group and Student Employee Reports

Policy and Procedure: employee reminders, education, and training needs (printing, recycling, supplies, computers, small appliance)

*Rachel, Carol, Kristi, Chad

This update and discussion was tabled for December meeting

Master Facilities Plan

*Dick, Cliff, Glenn, Kristi, Theresa

Cliff, Kristi and Glenn met for a second time to discuss our priority proposals for the master planning consultants.  Sustainable landscape procedures, annual maintenance plan, trails and accessibility options, and campus leisure spaces (both inside and out) will be our key priorities.  Dick mentioned his discussions with Paula for outdoor opportunities on the ERTC campus.  Wade would like to see a self-sustaining Eco-house built on campus, used as a demonstration and a means for generating foundation support.  This also spurred a conversation about admissions and ambassadors incorporating sustainability into their planning.  Kristi mentioned she’d emailed Brandon Leno about doing a quick promo video, but hasn’t received a response from him yet.  Wade also suggested the Sustainability Council meet at and tour the ERTC campus.

Sustainability Reporting/Benchmarking: GGI, ACUPCC, MnSCU Sustainability Reporting, Superior Compact, B3, publicizing info

*Kristi, Aaron, Deanne, Bruce

Kristi forwarded the lists generated to Wade and Al.  Aaron and Bruce are continuing to work on Superior Compact benchmarking.  The group had an impromptu discussion about local and regional food procurement.  Bruce will be offering Locally Laid eggs along-side his usual egg salad next week, at different price points, to gauge interest in supporting more local.  More discussion in today’s “New Business”.

Sustainability Kiosk: energy dashboard/demo, sustainability signage

*Duane, Rachel, Student Senate Rep

Duane gave a report on sustainability kiosk ideas he’s compiled so far.  Wade mentioned that he and Al have identified at least three places on campus where they’d like to see a kiosk placed.  Wade has touch screens available.  The Kiosk groups is tasked with coming up with content ideas for the touchscreens and possible leisure area ideas to accompany it.

Grounds Maintenance/Campus Appeal: annual flower planting, rainwater harvesting, no-mow areas, rooftop gardening

Theresa, Mike, Aaron, Kristi, maintenance rep

This group hasn’t met yet and needs a chair volunteer.

Sustainability in Curriculum

Theresa, Duane, Aaron, Kristi, Deanne, Glenn

This group hasn’t met since last meeting.

Garden Club indoor plant pots discussion tabled until next meeting.

New Business

Cliff, Aaron and Kristi met last week to determine the best method for compiling the FY13 Greenhouse Gas information needed for the Inventory, which is due in January.  The new Clean-Air Cool-Campus online format is much more user-friendly and the group discussed having those with the information (Business Office, Denise in Inst. Research, etc) directly input data that we need.  Wade will have the conversation with Al.  The group discussed the accuracy and use of the data that is collected, Wade suggested a commuting counter be placed on the entrances to count cars over a few months’ time.

The group talked about using the AASHE STARS platform to track our annual progress.  The group looked at the advantages of using the $900 subscription services versus the free format.  Wade pointed out that the $900 could be better utilized in projects.  Kristi also mentioned the Sustainable Twin Ports beta metrics project, which is based on STARS. Kristi will be involved in the beta project and asked if the Council thought both tools could be useful.  Deanne motioned to use the free STARS tool this year, and assess the benefit of subscription after the first year.  Dick seconded the motion.

The S-bldg entrance lawnscape project is underway.  Seeds have been purchased and work will hopefully begin next week.  Gary Chick will use the bobcat to work the soil, and the remaining Juneberry trees will be removed.  Wade has material that machine tool can use to laser-etch signs.

The search committee for Building Services Forman position is taking question suggestions.  Anyone with sustainability related suggested questions should email them to Kristi by next Friday.  Kristi will send a message for hard-copy review before November 15^th, then forward to Wade.

Review HLC comments from our STP AQIP update (tabled for Decemeber meeting)

Update SC Committee structure: members, Governing Council, and Council co-chair responsibilities (tabled for December meeting)

Collaboration opportunities or outreach material with Admissions (tabled for December meeting, Kristi will invite Ashley Grimm).

Ongoing Business

Old Business

Budget                                 

FY14 Budget: $9,000 

Encumbrances to date:

MN Waste Wise membership 2013-2014: -$150

Open PO for Menards (landscaping supplies: azalea mulch, planter flowers): -$200

Open PO for Menards (Interpretive trail supplies) – $200

AASHE membership: -$280

Airpark plastic bag recycling program: -$208

Rene Fall (Int Trail GIS mapping): -$320

UMACS Kristi travel and registration: -$758.39

ACUPCC annual 2013-2014 membership: -$750

Eden Brothers (seed mix for S-bldg): -143.96

FY14 potential budget items

• Concourse lighting signage
• Bottle filling station for ERTC (did this happen in FY13?) and downtown campus
• Additional bike rack for main entrance
• Outdoor recycling cans
• Interpretive Trailhead sign
• Interpretive Trail bench, trash/recycling cans
• Parking lot info signs
• Legacy: fencing for edible exclosures
• Sustainability kiosk

Next meeting

December 6, 2013, 9:00 am, Student Life Conference Room

Notes submitted by Kristi Heintz