Environmental Advisory Committee Meeting

The Moon Township Environmental Advisory Council met on March 4, 2015, with seven members present. The council unanimously approved the February 18 meeting minutes. The Green Initiatives Coordinator reported on several ongoing programs. The Green Initiatives Coordinator attended a Port Authority board meeting to advocate for Moon Township’s transit services, and neighboring Groveton has joined the effort after experiencing service cuts. The Solarize Moon Township program launched successfully on February 23, drawing 35-40 residents despite poor advertising; about 10 residents have signed up for solar estimates, and a resident who owns solar panels has offered a home tour. The Green Initiatives Coordinator also presented a Groundswell Wind Energy initiative offering $10 per household signed up, with funds earmarked for council projects; the Green Initiatives Coordinator and two council members volunteered for the leadership team. Bike Pittsburgh outreach continues, with bike corridors included in the Comprehensive Plan. No land development plans were reviewed. The Comprehensive Plan remains in its 45-day public review period, with comments due to an employee by March 27. The council discussed the upcoming residential hazardous waste pickup starting in April, and continued recruiting volunteers for the June 6 electronics recycling event. For the March 20-21 Public Awareness Weekend, a council member is scheduled to appear, possibly in a sun costume. Earth Day plans on April 19 will feature plastic bottle planters with faces for children; members will collect bottles for the April 1 meeting. A council member is investigating alternative vendors for the June 20 shredding event, including Iron Mountain. A council member encouraged the council to consider new programs beyond traditional events given its three new members. The meeting adjourned at 7:00 p.m.