A major topic of discussion was Chapter 6 of the city code of ordinances, specifically the sections dealing with solid waste and recycling regulations. The commission considered a proposal to amend the code to allow residents to store waste containers either behind or within five feet of the front plane of their homes or garages, instead of the current prohibition against front yard storage. This proposal was generally supported as a practical change, acknowledging that many residents already store their containers near their garages. The change aims to assist residents, including those with disabilities, by reducing the distance they need to move their waste containers.

The commission also debated extending the timeframe during which residents can place waste containers out for collection. The current regulation restricts this to between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. on collection days. The proposed amendment would allow containers to be placed out the night before collection and remain until the end of collection day. This adjustment received support based on practical challenges faced by residents, such as long driveways and early trash service schedules.

Recycling access for multifamily buildings was another issue. According to Minnesota state statute, certain commercial buildings, including multifamily properties, must provide recycling services under specific conditions. However, the current city code language was described as vague concerning its applicability to multifamily buildings. The majority of commission members favored aligning city regulations with state statutes to avoid imposing stricter local requirements. Concerns were raised about the potential for landlords to neglect recycling responsibilities if they do not meet the waste collection thresholds. The commission discussed the need for clearer guidelines on plans landlords must submit to opt out of providing recycling and emphasized the importance of comprehensive reporting on recycling practices in multifamily units.

In addition to regulatory discussions, the commission reviewed the recent EcoFare, an event aimed at promoting environmental awareness. Staff liaison Hannah Dunn provided an overview, noting the event’s strong turnout, with 18 vendors and over 100 attendees. The EcoFare’s timing coincided with a nearby Arbor Day tree giveaway, which appeared to drive additional traffic to the event. Commissioners recognized the effectiveness of this timing but identified areas needing improvement, particularly in communication. Delays in distributing promotional flyers were noted, and there were logistical issues with vendors who failed to attend despite prior commitments.

Suggestions for future events included involving local electric vehicle owners to advocate for the benefits of electric vehicles, as well as implementing mechanisms to better track how attendees learn about events. Ideas such as suggestion boxes or boards for post-it notes were proposed to solicit attendee feedback. Commissioners also explored the potential for collaboration with the parks commission to enhance community engagement, especially concerning ongoing park projects.

Feedback from EcoFare vendors was generally positive, with suggestions for later start times in future events. Children’s activities, such as seed planting, were well-received, and there was a consensus on the importance of engaging young families by providing activities that children can participate in without requiring separate childcare. Commissioners proposed partnering with organizations to facilitate these activities.

Other discussions at the meeting included updates on hauler licensing duties, which have shifted to the licensing clerk. The commission plans further investigation into hauler licensing reports. Updates were provided on upcoming social media themes, with July focusing on going plastic-free and August left open for flexibility. A commissioner highlighted the need to remind residents about the proper disposal of batteries and hazardous materials, following inquiries at the EcoFare. The liaison mentioned a campaign by Washington County.

The meeting also touched upon the upcoming fall cleanup in September, clarifying that batteries and hazardous materials would not be accepted, though Washington County may offer one-day collection events for such items. The installation of new solar arrays at two elementary schools was noted, with power-up events scheduled to promote solar energy initiatives. The commission was also reminded of an upcoming environmental commission conference and discussed the possibility of changing meeting start times from 7 PM to 6 PM, though concerns about attendance led to a preference for maintaining the current schedule.