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3-13-25 Joint Workshop Adopted MInutesATTENDANCE: Present: Absent: MINUTES Joint Workshop between the City Commission and the Environmental Stewardsip Committee (ESC) Thursday, March 13, 2025 - 6:00 PM City Hall, Commission Chamber 800 Seminole Road, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 Curtis Ford, Mayor - Seat 1 (At Large) Bruce Bole, Commissioner - Seat 2 (District 1308) Thomas Grant, Commissioner - Seat 3 Candace Kelly, Commissioner - Seat 4 (District 1306) Jessica Ring, Commissioner - Seat 5 (District 1312) Sarah Boren, ESC Chair Todd Miner, ESC Member Anastasia Houston, ESC Member Bruce Andrews, ESC Member Amy Palmer, ESC Member Daniele Giovannucci, ESC Member Heather Markaj, ESC Member Also Present: William B. Killingsworth, City Manager (CM) Kevin Hogencamp, Deputy City Manager (DCM) Amanda Askew, Planning & Community Development Dir. (PCDD) Donna Bartle, City Clerk (CC) CALL TO ORDER Mayor Ford called the meeting to order at 6:00 PM. (Commissioner Grant arrived at 6:02 PM) 2. PUBLIC COMMENT The following speakers provided their comments: Carolyn Zisser distributed a handout to the Commission (which is attached hereto and made a part of this official record as Attachment A). Nancy Staats Ellen Glasser Geoff Selhorst Mitch Reeves Liz Rozas Commission Workshop March 13, 2025 Brinkley Harrell Susanne Barker Mary Emerson -Smith 3-13-25 Attachment A 1. TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION A. Priorities Discussion The Commission and ESC referred to a handout titled "PROPOSED 2025 Priorities and Events" (which is attached hereto and made part of this official record as Attachment B) and discussed their desired priorities. Mayor Ford proposed holding an annual joint workshop and suggested that committee reports presented at regular Commission meetings be engaged with discussion from the Commission. Mayor Ford expressed interest in the joint meeting covering the following topics: the value proposition of LEED certification, the city's growth expectations, and the associated costs, including both financial and staff time. He also requested information on tree -related issues, including the number of trees being cut down without a permit, the number of citations issued, cases presented before the special magistrate, the use of Florida Statutes, and instances of tree removal affecting city infrastructure. Commissioner Ring asked that they regain focus on the list of ESC priorities within Attachment B and begin with priority one, Tree Mitigation Fund. Mayor Ford requested that the City Manager inquire with the Florida Department of Transportation about the possibility of increasing green space in the road diet project. Commissioner Grant expressed interest in creating a process for private property owners to volunteer their land for tree planting. Mayor Ford requested an update at the next Commission meeting on which items are actionable within the current budget year, with non -actionable items to be included in the next budget. He directed the ESC to compile a list of actionable items, and the City Manager will follow up accordingly. Mayor Ford also suggested scheduling the priority - setting discussion for the 90 -day calendar at the next meeting. The Commission reached a CONSENSUS to ensure that during presentations, questions are asked, and the City Manager receives direction on actionable items or is instructed to report back. Additional documents that were distibuted are attached hereto and made a part of this official record as Attachments C and D. Commission Workshop March 13, 2025 (Commissioner Grant left the meeting at 7:26 PM and rejoined at 7:29 PM) 3-13-25 Attachment B 3-13-25 Attachment C 3-13-25 Attachment D B. How do Commission and ESC interface C. Open Discussion ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 7:58 PM. Attest: /'4� V/SAR* Donna L. Bartle, City Clerk Date Approved: -41.11 s � Curtis Ford, May r Commission Workshop March 13, 2025 Handal Attachment to //�/L �z 3-13-25 Minutes es G l Proposed Revision to ORDINANCE 95-25-124 DIVISION 7 - ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE (b) Section 23-56. Duties and Responsibilities "The environmental stewardship committee shall independently provide guidance and support to the City Commission and to the City Manager, and by request from the City Commission and City Manager, shall provide written recommendations in the following areas listed below..." 14,1t1 / �, /- Attachment B to Gt r X 3-13-25 Minutes PROPOSED 2025 Priorities and Events After seeking Commissioner, City staff, ESC members, and community (via public workshop) input, the ESC discussed, ranked, prioritized, and unanimously voted to present the following proposed priorities, events, education/outreach efforts and Tree Fund spending plan to Commission and City Staff for approval to focus on and achieve in 2025: &EQ"K IWIN STAE 000RDINATION Does ESC have the Commission's approval i, MARITIME CANOPY 1. Plant More -- Continue giveaways, promote tree adoptions more, and work with city staff regarding street, park and city construction projects. Activate a successful tree campaign with the goal of planting 200 trees in 2025. Implement the proposed Tree Mitigation Fund 2025 Action & Spending Plan (see attached). 2. Research, Plan & Report - • Research Best Practices & Plan: Develop, propose, and, if approved by Commission, implement a long- term tree plan that includes projecting future needs such as replacement for aging & dying trees, developing a calendar, list of locations, and estimated cost for tree planting in parks, public spaces and along streets and rights-of-way • Report: a) Create a robust quarterly tree report that includes tree fund expenses and income, number of permits, number of arborist letters, number of enforcement incidents, number of mitigated trees planted, etc. b) Develop and maintain ongoing reporting mechanisms that share with the AB community the health and status of tree canopy and how residents can engage and/or communicate possible violations and/or solutions to the city. PARKS & OPEN SPACES 1. Complete approved mini edible orchard pilot and fund maintenance from Tree Mitigation Fund pending Public Works irrigation water decision and final donated design. 2. Research best practices and solutions for marsh and wetland protection. Work towards restoring and maintaining critical wetlands and marshes. 3. Reduce invasives -- Continue to reduce invasive species in our dunes, wetlands, marshes, and parks 4. Stewards of the Park Program -- Coordinate a "Stewards/Friends of the Park" program for passive parks BEAUTIFICATION 1. Update Seminole & Atlantic Entrance - Work with volunteer landscape expert working closely with staff and propose estimated cost of tree and landscaping replacement from Tree Mitigation Fund 2. Mayport Road Construction - Work with staff and FDOT to incorporate trees, landscaping, and energy efficient lighting lining Mayport Road and East Coast Greenway. 3. Enhance public spaces -- Assess opportunities in public rights of way, roadsides, City buildings, beach accesses and other publicly held properties with art, carefully maintained landscape design and plantings to attract pollinators and birds using native, Florida -friendly plants, and city plant palette, water conservation, and limited chemicals. 4. Bee City Designation - Work with staff to seek Bee City USA designation INVIRONMEN1t{i STEWARDSHII' 1. Commission 2024-2025 Priorities -- Help staff achieve their Commission priorities: a) identify marsh priority projects consistent with the Adaptation Plan update by August 2025; b) identify sustainability goals for City projects, City buildings, and City land; c) develop an implementation schedule for Connectivity Plan and CIP adjustments; d) 15% residential water conservation goal per the N FL Water Supply Plan 2 Reduce use of toxic biocides through education and case studies. Attachment B to 3-13-25 Minutes RECOMMENDATIONS FOR STAFF & COMMISSION Does the Commission want ESL to make recommendatluns un the following items? MAR111MF (hNnr�y • Incentivize & Preserve Mature Trees - a) Propose incentive programs to encourage developers and homeowners to save trees versus removing them; b) Create, propose, and, if approved by Commission, implement a pilot Heritage Tree Grant program to be reevaluated annually to be funded by the Tree Mitigation Fund. Dutton Island Trees - Research cause for trees dying, possible solutions and make recommendations PARKS & OPEN SPACES • Dora Street -- Propose recommendations for Dora Street property to be both a usable park and a stormwater retention pond 100 W I" Street Community Center - Propose recommendations to renovate to green and resilient standards and serve as a model demonstration building that educates the public about what is possible and inspires other AB buildings to do the same. • Parks Master Plan - Propose recommendations to staff and Commission regarding environmental stewardship of parks, open spaces, and facilities. • Improve signage - Propose recommendations for improved signage in our parks • Eliminate cat problem - Research best practices and propose recommendations to address major cat problem on Dutton Island which is killing many birds and other natural wildlife BEAUTIFILA110i< • Flyover & Mayport Road AB Entrances & Major Intersections - Understand staff constraints and goals and propose recommendations for beautification • Reduce blight - Review recommendations on how to reduce the number and appearance of degraded/blighted properties, parks, and open spaces • Learning gardens - Propose recommendations for learning gardens throughout the city ENVIRONMFNTAI STEWARDSHIP • LEED Recertification & Sustainability and Resilience Community Action Plan (S&RCAP) - Seek staff and Commission alignment around LEED recertification and an updated SRCAP that is incorporated into staff workplans. • Voluntary Resilient & Green Building Ordinance - Propose recommendations for a voluntary resilient & green building ordinance that will help property owners protect their asset(s), save money and resources, and avoid need for rebuilding. • Flooding & Stormwater Management Plan - Research best practices, work with staff and consultant(s), and make recommendations to ensure AB has sufficient stormwater storage and mitigates inland flooding during extreme weather into future. • Local Green Business Program - Partner with a local nonprofit on voluntary green business program to save money, resources, reduce waste, energy, and water, increase education and awareness, and build community. • Reclaimed Water - Propose recommendations about reclaimed water opportunities in our community. • Floating Solar - Review opportunities for a pilot floating solar array in a retention pond. Attachment B to 3-13-25 Minutes ON GOING ITEMS Does the Commission give its approval for ESC to continue working on the following ongoing needs? MARITIME CANOPY • Educate/lobby/outreach regarding tree canopy preservation and benefits of trees • Update/refine Chapter 23 annually (Q1 — ideally before budget season) • Learn best practices from other cities/counties in Florida and beyond • Partner with universities, nonprofits, and subject matter experts where appropriate and possible • Maintain "Tree City USA" status PARKS 8 nPFN SPArFS • Increase access to and quantity of green spaces • Advise on long term health of parks — Work to keep passive parks passive and multi-purpose parks healthy. • Enhance connectivity and walkability between parks and open spaces • Educate/outreach about the benefits of parks and open spaces BEAUTIFICATInN • Input from Commission on their priorities and ideas for beautification • Input from community regarding continuous improvement on beautification • Educate/outreach about benefits of low impact beautification ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHII • Continue to work on LEED and S&RCAP implementation where possible PROPOSED 2025-2026 EVENTS Does ESC have the Corns e•�wrn s oppiuva; to i(,(o� un ,i d achieve the following events • Educational Speaker Series (Monthly) • Community Service Days (Quarterly) —Brazilian Pepper Tree Tides View; Howell Park Littoral Planting; Weed Wrangle Air Potato Howell Park; Clean Up Partnerships; Edible Orchard Planting; • Film Series (Quarterly/ Bi -annually) • Awards (April 2) • Arbor Day Tree Giveaway (January 12) • Arbor Day (January 17) • Earth Day (April 27 Farmers Market) — Monarch Pledge, Bee City, and Marsh Education • October Tree Giveaway (October) • Annual Community Input Meeting re: ESC Priorities for the Next Year (Q4; Oct/Nov) EDUCATION, OUTREACH & AWARENESS EFFORTS Does ESC have the Commission's approval to focus on and achieve the following events? • Regular "Did You Know" social media postings • Content for City newsletter (monthly) • Content for City website • AB GreenCorps Volunteers • Small hyperlocal conversations/chats in each district • Tabling at other events and farmers' market • Presentations at partner events like Beaches Watch -- build visibility, trust, and momentum Attachment B to 3-13-25 Minutes PROPOSED 2025 Tree Mitigation Fund Action & Spending Plan Purpose: Be more strategic and proactive in how we add canopy back to the city Fund Balance as of 2/12/2025 S 200,000 Proposed spending plan amount 5 145,000 TEGORY I% OF FUND 1% IN ACTUAL I NOTES BUDGETED IDOLLARS street plantings in public right of ways 21%15 30,000 130 trees at 51,000 each locations TBD; Watering has been a challenge park replacement plantings 7% $ 10,000 lReplace dead/dangerous trees that may have been untended for years rotal i 100%i $ 145,000 Unplanned city -directed plantings 7% $ 10,000 City entrance Atlantic Blvd & Seminole 10% 5 15,000 Plan is in process after losing Cypress trees City entrance for Mayport Road (by Arby's) 5% $ 7,500 Replicate plant materials planned for Atlantic & Seminole entrance; location has no irrigation and is smaller Mayport Road TBD 2025-2026 with FDOT construction; Low maintenance landscaping (no trees probably due to line Mayport Road Greenway set-aside 14% 5 20,000 of sight issues) Seek 570k from COJ or another grant; There are serious concerns about using COAG Tree Fund for a task as big as Dutton and as "distant" from the neighborhoods that generated the loss. It could easily wipe out a large chunk of the Dutton Island assessment and pilot to replant losses 0% $ fund and may be questionable as a direct benefit to residents. Edible Orchard 10% $ 15,000 City Free Front Yard Plantings (2x year) 7% 5 10,000 20 trees each in Spring and Fall (March & November) Spent 150 trees at $17.50 each for Jan 2025; Spent $3k in Jan 2024 & $5300 in April 2025; Events in January & Community Tree Giveaways (2x year) 3% 5 5,000 October 2025 Idea: Start with the 4-5 public Heritage trees most in need of care 2024 Idea: Pilot grant: Designated trees only; No match required as it adds too much administrative burden: Citizens Heritage Tree Preservation 3% $ 5.000 have to apply, agree, sign waiver, etc. 2025 Idea: Consolidate data with input from ESC, CoJ, and staff and formulate (with expert) recommendations for Commission 2024 Ideas: Tree inventory of parks; piggyback on COJ; seed money for statistical sampling and framework; tree Canopy Health Data & State of the Trees 7% S 10,000 inventory grant; IFAS Master Arborist/Gardener train the trainer; Planning staff really wants to do Raingarden Demonstration project, Marshside Erosion Pilot Project, and Howell Learning Gardens 0% $ - Park Littoral Planting Improve community understanding of regulations, tree care, and sustainable landscapes with information and Education & Outreach 5% 5 7,500 expertspeakers TSC to work with staff to define what constitutes an emergency and when reserve can be used if ever; fluctuating Reserve <_ balance. circa 5% current rotal i 100%i $ 145,000 Attachment C to 3-13-25 Minutes Environmental Stewardship Committee's Charge in Municipal Code Chapter 23 23-52. - Environmental stewardship committeeAntent The maritime forest in Atlantic Beach is core to the city's identity as a small coastal village. The tree canopy creates beauty, provides a home for wildlife, functions as an element of the water management system and enhances property values. It is in the best interest for this committee to be the stewards of the tree canopy through advocacy, assessment maintenance planting and preservation of this natural resource. The city parks provide open spaces for recreation, exercise, wildlife habitat, relaxation and encounters with the natural world. This committee intends to support the community to provide a variety of park spaces that are well maintained, accessible and secure. This committee shall take the lead and set high community standards in the beautification and maintenance of public spaces located within the city. The Atlantic Ocean, the St. Johns River and the Intracoastal Waterway have a great deal of influence on the micro climate, drainage issues and the diverse vegetation and wildlife that thrive within the city. The care and health of the coast and marsh must be paramount in every recommendation made by this committee about the use of our land, water system and tree canopy. (PURPOSE 1) To study and make recommendations to the city commission and city staff with respect to the city's: a. Maritime forest; b. Parks and open spaces; c. Beautification of public and private spaces d. Environmental stewardship. (PURPOSE 2) To act as a motivating and coordinating body to encourage joint public and private participation in promoting these purposes. (SCOPE) Environmental stewardship committee—Scope of activities. The environmental stewardship committee shall provide guidance and support to the city commission and city manager and, upon request by the city commission or city manager, shall provide written recommendations, in the following area... Ordinance states ESC provide guidance and support on: a. STRENGTHEN: Clarifying and strengthening the city's processes and all tree and landscape related city codes and ordinances: b. MONITOR: Monitoring the appropriate administration and enforcement of the city's ordinances; c. TRANSPARENT Promoting transparency through online access to relevant information: d. EDUCATE: Developing and maintaining environmental education and outreach programs about the maritime forest and relevant codes; e. PLANT WELL: Promoting appropriate planting and care of trees on private property to owners, developers, builders, and tree/landscape service contractors; f. PLAN Developing and maintaining a long-term tree plan that includes an assessment of the tree canopy, projecting future needs, and developing a calendar and budget for tree planting in parks, public spaces and along streets and rights-of-way; g. ADVOCATE: Promoting tree canopy advocacy including upholding the city's status as a bona fide Tree City USA h REVIEW Developing a process for systematic, review of the city's enforcement of the existing tree codes, including the long-term health of trees planted for mitigation; and i. REPORT: Developing and maintaining a process for citizens to communicate possible violations to the city. Attachment C to 3-13-25 Minutes PROPOSED 2025 Priorities & Actions PROPOSED ESC DIRECT WORK WITH STAFF' UPERVISION- Does ESC have the Commission's approval to focus on and + --sieve the following, • Plaid More - Continue giveaways, promote tree adoptions more, and work with city staff regarding street, park and city construction projects Activate a successful tree campaign with the goal of 200 trees planted in 2025 • Research, Plan & Report - Research Best Practices & Plan: Develop, propose, and, if approved by Commission. implement a long-term tree plan that includes projecting future needs such as replacement for aging & dying trees, developing a calendar. list of locations, and estimated cost for tree planting in parks, public spaces and along streets and rights-of-way Report: a) Create a robust quarterly tree report that includes tree fund expenses and income, number of permits number of arborist letters number of enforcement incidents number of mitigated trees planted, etc b) Develop and maintain ongoing reporting mechanisms that share with the AB community the health and status of tree canopy and how residents can engage and/or communicate possible violations and/or solutions to the city PROPOSE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR STAFF & COMMISSION - Does the Commission want ESC to make aeons on the items? • Incentivize & Preserve Mature Trees - a) Propose incentive programs to encourage developers and new homeowners to save trees versus removing them, b) Create, propose, and, if approved by Commission, implement a pilot Heritage Tree Grant program to be reevaluated annually to be funded by the Tree Mitigation Fund. • Dutton Island Trees - Research cause for trees dying, possible solutions. and make recommendations ON GOING ITEMS - - ission c� al for ESC to continue working on the following ongoing needs-, • Educatellobbyloutreach regarding tree canopy preservation and benefits of trees • Update/refine Chapter 23 annually (Q1 - ideally before budget season) • Learn best practices from other cities/counties in Florida and beyond • Partner with universities, nonprofits, and subject matter experts where appropriate and possible Maintain "Tree City USA" status Ordinance states ESC provide guidance and support on: a. PLAN: Developing and maintaining a long-range plan to protect, improve and beautify park spaces, b. ACCESS. Improving access to and amenities for parks including disability accommodations, bike paths, parking, signage and other user- friendly features; c. EXPAND Expanding the city's inventory of parks and conservation land through acquisition or other means, and d. EDUCATE: Maintaining a web -based, publicly accessible inventory of parks including their history, archeological value, rules of use. deed restrictions and conservation easements. Attachment C to 3-13-25 Minutes PROPOSED 2025 Priorities & Actions PROPOSED ESC DIRECT WORK WITH STAFF SUPERVISION— Does ESC have the Commission s approval tc focus on and try to achieve the folic • Complete approved mini edible orchard pilot and fund maintenance from Tree Mitigation Fund pending Public Works irrigation water decision and final donated design • Research best practices and solutions for marsh and wetland protection. Work towards restoring and maintaining critical wetlands and marshes Reduce invasives -- Continue to reduce invasive species in our dunes wetlands, marshes, and parks Stewards of the Park Program -- Coordinate a "Stewards/Friends of the Park' program PROPOSE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR STAFF & COMMISSION — Does the Commission want ESC to make recommendations on the following items? • Dora Street — Propose recommendations for Dora Street property regarding trees to be cleared, usable park and a stormwater retention pond • 100 W 111 Street Community Center— Propose recommendations to renovate to green and resilient standards and serve as a model demonstration building that educates the public about what is possible and inspires other AB buildings to do the same. • Parks Master Plan — Propose recommendations to staff and Commission regarding environmental stewardship of parks, open spaces, and facilities. • Improve signage — Propose recommendations for improved signage in our parks • Eliminate cat problem — Research best practices and propose recommendations to address major cat problem on Dutton Island which is killing many birds and other natural wildlife ON GOING ITEMS — 7ors'­r,-pion civo its anDroval for ESC to continue working on the followrnc nnoomg needs? • Increase access to and quantity of green spaces • Advise on long term health of parks — Work to keep passive parks passive and multi-purpose parks healthy. • Enhance connectivity and walkability between parks and open spaces • Educateloutreach about the benefits of parks and open spaces Ordinance states ESC provide guidance and support on: a. ENHANCE: Enhancing public spaces, including public rights-of-way, roadsides, city buildings, beach accesses and other publicly held properties with art, carefully maintained landscape design and plantings, b. INCENT & ADVOCATE: Incentivizing and advocating for beautification of private and commercial spaces, c. REDUCE BLIGHT: Reducing the number and appearance of degraded or blighted properties; and. d. COHESIVE LOOK: Developing a design theme/community branding for signage, bus shelters. lighting and other elements of the built environment. Attachment C to 3-13-25 Minutes PROPOSED ESC DIRECT WORK WITH STAFF SUPERVISION — Does ESC have the Commission s approval tc 'nn!ic, nn an! t-.' to arhipvq tho frAnwlnc') • Update Seminole & Atlantic Entrance — Work with volunteer landscape expert working closely with staff and propose estimated cost of tree and landscaping replacement from Tree Mitigation Fund • Mayport Road Construction — Work with staff and FDOT to incorporate trees. landscaping, and energy efficient lighting lining Mayport Road and East Coast Greenway • Enhance public spaces — Assess opportunities in public rights of way, roadsides. City buildings. beach accesses and other publicly held properties with art, carefully maintained landscape design and plantings to attract pollinators and birds using native. Florida -friendly plants, and city plant palette. water conservation, and limited chemicals • Bee City Designation — Work with staff to seek Bee City USA designation PROPOSE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR STAFF & COMMISSION — Does the Commission -ant ESC to make -r—mon vitt i�amc • Flyover & Mayport Road AB Entrances & Major Intersections — Understand staff constraints and goals and propose recommendations for beautification • Reduce blight — Review recommendations on how to reduce the number and appearance of degradedlblighted properties, parks, and open spaces • Learning gardens — Propose recommendations for learning gardens throughout the city ON GOING ITEMS —',o?s Commission aive its aporoval for ESC to continue working on the following ongoing needs? • Input from Commission on their priorities and ideas for beautification • Input from community regarding continuous improvement on beautification • Educate/outreach about benefits of low impact beautification Ordinance states ESC provide guidance and support on: a. BEST PRACTICES: Utilizing best practices, including a science -based approach, when making any decision about development and its impact on our environment; b. PROTECT: Protecting the beach, dunes, marshlands and wetlands as critical defenses in hurricane, erosion and flooding conditions; c. COMMUNICATE: Communicating the dynamics of tidal drainage and floodplain with the goal of preserving the city's flood management system; d. REVIEW & ENSURE: Reviewing the city's environmental codes and ensuring enforcement of rules including, but not limited to, dumping, septic tanks and commercial pollution; and e. MAINTAIN: Reviewing, updating and maintaining the Marsh Master Plan for adherence to current research about sea level change and wetlands preservation. Attachment C to 3-13-25 Minutes PROPOSED 2025 Priorities & Actions PROF _,�,ED ESC DIRECT WORK WITH STAFF SUPERVIS104- Does ESG have t. . ommission s approval to toc,.r r, and try to achieve the following? • Commission 20242025 Priorities - Help staff achieve their Commission priorities: a) identify marsh priority projects consistent with the Adaptation Plan update by August 2025, b) identify sustainability goals for City projects, City buildings. and City land; c) develop an implementation schedule for Connectivity Plan and CIP adjustments: and d) 15% residential water conservation goal per the N FL Water Supply Plan • Reduce use of toxic biocides through education and case studies. PROPOSE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR STAFF & COMMISSION- Does the Commission want ESC to make -mendations on the tollowmg items • LEED Recertification & Sustainability and Resilience Community Action Plan (S&RCAP) - Seek staff and Commission alignment around LEED recertification and an updated SRCAP that is incorporated into staff workplans • Voluntary Resilient & Green Building Ordinance - Propose recommendations for a voluntary resilient & green building ordinance that will help property owners protect their asset(s), save money and resources, and avoid need for rebuilding • Flooding & Stormwater Management Plan - Research best practices, work with staff and consultant(s), and make recommendations to ensure AB has sufficient stormwater storage and mitigates inland flooding during extreme weather into future. • Local Green Business Program - Partner with a local nonprofit on voluntary green business program to save money, resources, reduce waste, energy, and water, increase education and awareness, and build community. • Reclaimed Water - Propose recommendations about reclaimed water opportunities in our community. • Floating Solar - Review opportunities for a pilot floating solar array in a retention pond. ON GOING ITEMS - -oes ".ommission give its approval for c_ -) continue working on the following ongoing needs' • Continue to work on LEED certification and S&RCAP implementation where possible PROPOSED 2025 EVENTS Does ESC have the Commission s approval to focus . , and try to achieve the following events? • Educational Speaker Series (Monthly) • Community Service Days (Quarterly) — Edible Orchard Planting; Howell Park Planting; Brazilian Pepper Tree Tides View: Weed Wrangle Air Potato Howell Park; Clean Up Partnerships • Film Series (Quarterly / Bi -annually) • Arbor Day Tree Giveaway (January 12) • Arbor Day (January 17) • Awards (March) • Earth Day (April 27 Farmers Market) — Monarch Pledge, Bee City, and Orchard Opening • October Tree Giveaway (October) • Household Hazardous Waste, Electronics Recycling & Paper Shredding Partner Event (03) • Annual Community Input Meeting re: ESC Priorities for the Next Year (04, OcUNov) Attachment C to 3-13-25 Minutes OTHER EDUCATION, OUTREACH & AWARENESS EFFORTS -- Does ESC have the Commission's approval to focus on and try to achieve the following efforts` • Regular "Did You Know" social media postings • Content for City newsletter • Content for City website • AB GreenCorps Volunteers • Small hyperlocal conversations/chats in each district • Tabling at other events and farmers' market • Presentations at partner events like Beaches Watch. Fletcher High School to build awareness and trust vpl� G Attachment D to 3-13_ Z 5— J.(�JN� �I re i 3-13-25 Minutes ESC Joint Workshop Objectives Achieve deeper understanding of ESC's value Improve communication Learn what is important to Commission Align priorities Improve Chapter 23 in a substantive manner Next steps Attachment O to 3-13-25 Minutes • Ad-hoc committee formed in 2016 to make recommendations to the Commission for the formation of a standing committee to address beautification and natural resource preservation within the City • 11 citizens were appointed and met for several months in 2016/2017 before making ESC History recommendations to the Commission, including: • Strong emphasis to be involved in the tree protection process • Importance of having consistent and ongoing focus on environmental matters by citizens • Broad community representation with geographic requirements and desirable skillsets • ESC established by ordinance in mid -2017 • ESC's first meeting was held in October 2017 AWL Attachment D to 3-13-25 Minutes ESC Purpose (by ordinance) 1. Studies and makes recommendations to and responds to requests from the commission and staff with respect to: • Maritime forest; • Parks and open spaces; • Beautification of public and private spaces; • Environmental stewardship. 2. Acts as a motivating and coordinating body to encourage joint public and private participation in promoting these purposes. • Tree Pemits - Review tree permits to verify staff's ruling is in accordance with Chapter 23. • Continuously Improve Tree Ordinance -- Analyze cases not addressed by code and see if it needs tweaking annually • Respond & Recommend -Respond to new state legislation, market changes, and community complaints with recommendations • Community Contact/Pulse -Serve as the community point of contact and temperature read regarding tree code and canopy • Beautification- Oversee ESC's charge regarding beautification • Tree Mitigation Fund - Make recommendations on how to strategically and equitably spend the tree mitigation fund • Progress on 2050 Goal for Canopy - Measure, protect, incentivize, and expand (where possible) the tree canopy Attachment D to 3-13-25 Minutes • Education & Outreach Materials -- Creating and sharing educational information externally to the community at large on what COAB and ESC are doing regarding environmental stewardship. • Events -- Plan and implement events (,e.g.. monthly educational speaker series. awards, community service volunteer days, Arbor Day, Earth Day, tree giveaways, community input meetings) • Programs, Campaigns & Initiatives - Research. plan, design, and implement various initiatives (e.g., AB Edible Orchard & Garden, Tree-a- Thon outreach, Conservation Challenge. MFH Recycling Campaign) • Marketing, Outreach, Education & Awareness - Create graphics and educational materials for COAB newsletters. social media, educational events. tabling, how-to pieces (e.g., how to prune well), presentations with partners (e.g., local schools, Beaches Go Green) • Volunteers - Recruit, coordinate, and recognize volunteers • Progress on 2050 Goal for Community Engagement Sustainability & Resilience Subcommittee c_oig) Community Action Plan & LEED Recertification - Ensure the COAB Sustainability & Resilience Community Action Plan (CAP) continues to be implemented. and progress reported annually including staying on track for LEED for Cities recertification every five years Parks, Open Spaces, & Environmental Stewardship - Oversees ESC's charge regarding Parks & Open Spaces and Environmental Stewardship (e.g., utilize best practices, science - based approach about development and its impact on our environment: Protect the beach. dunes. marshlands and wetlands as critical defenses in hurricane, erosion and flooding conditions: Communicate the dynamics of tidal drainage and floodplain with the goal of preserving the city's flood management system: Review and ensure city's environmental codes and enforcement: and maintain adherence to current research about sea level change and wetlands preservation. Collaborate & Partner -- Works with staff, Commission, partners, other cities, and AB community at large on sustainability and resilience matters and efforts Progress on CAP 2050 Goals j Tree Subcommittee (Cr-eored 7/17 by ordin • Tree Pemits - Review tree permits to verify staff's ruling is in accordance with Chapter 23. • Continuously Improve Tree Ordinance -- Analyze cases not addressed by code and see if it needs tweaking annually • Respond & Recommend -Respond to new state legislation, market changes, and community complaints with recommendations • Community Contact/Pulse -Serve as the community point of contact and temperature read regarding tree code and canopy • Beautification- Oversee ESC's charge regarding beautification • Tree Mitigation Fund - Make recommendations on how to strategically and equitably spend the tree mitigation fund • Progress on 2050 Goal for Canopy - Measure, protect, incentivize, and expand (where possible) the tree canopy Attachment D to 3-13-25 Minutes • Education & Outreach Materials -- Creating and sharing educational information externally to the community at large on what COAB and ESC are doing regarding environmental stewardship. • Events -- Plan and implement events (,e.g.. monthly educational speaker series. awards, community service volunteer days, Arbor Day, Earth Day, tree giveaways, community input meetings) • Programs, Campaigns & Initiatives - Research. plan, design, and implement various initiatives (e.g., AB Edible Orchard & Garden, Tree-a- Thon outreach, Conservation Challenge. MFH Recycling Campaign) • Marketing, Outreach, Education & Awareness - Create graphics and educational materials for COAB newsletters. social media, educational events. tabling, how-to pieces (e.g., how to prune well), presentations with partners (e.g., local schools, Beaches Go Green) • Volunteers - Recruit, coordinate, and recognize volunteers • Progress on 2050 Goal for Community Engagement Sustainability & Resilience Subcommittee c_oig) Community Action Plan & LEED Recertification - Ensure the COAB Sustainability & Resilience Community Action Plan (CAP) continues to be implemented. and progress reported annually including staying on track for LEED for Cities recertification every five years Parks, Open Spaces, & Environmental Stewardship - Oversees ESC's charge regarding Parks & Open Spaces and Environmental Stewardship (e.g., utilize best practices, science - based approach about development and its impact on our environment: Protect the beach. dunes. marshlands and wetlands as critical defenses in hurricane, erosion and flooding conditions: Communicate the dynamics of tidal drainage and floodplain with the goal of preserving the city's flood management system: Review and ensure city's environmental codes and enforcement: and maintain adherence to current research about sea level change and wetlands preservation. Collaborate & Partner -- Works with staff, Commission, partners, other cities, and AB community at large on sustainability and resilience matters and efforts Progress on CAP 2050 Goals Attachment D to 3-13-25 Minutes Annual ESC Contributions 132 Avg Hours per ESC member $290K Annual Value of ESC hours 1300+ ESC Annual Volunteer Hours 1-2 Est, Staff Positions Equivalent Attachment D to 3-13-25 Minutes The Economics of Our Trees 1. Our home values are strongly affected by trees (3) Homes with mature trees ore worth 5% to 15% more than homes without trees and sell more quickly and 1 mature tree can add $10K+ to the value of a home and its neighbor b) Homes may be worth up to 25% more where the entire street is tree -lined. For example, in Atlanta, homes sold for nearly $105,000 more in neighborhoods with mature trees 2. Trees lower all our energy use and costs a) Trees can reduce air conditioning needs by 20-50% lowerin surface and air temps by 20-45° b) Cincinnati community trees save residents $4.8 million annually 3. For resilience, trees save millions: o) Reduced stress on storm drainage s,vstems can save millions in infrastructure upgrade costs and 1 mature oak con transpire 40,000 GAL p/o b) Tree canopies significantly reduce and dissipate high winds N.B. Credible DATA from sources that include: USGS, U.S. EPA, Carnegie Institution, U.S. Forest Service, , Arbor Foundation, National Association of Realtors, Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers. problems we face are worsening Vis_ Attachment D to 3-13-25 Minutes Our Tree Loss May be worse than it looks Tree Permits Only (2021-2024) Removed In. Planted In. a NMI MINOW — . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2000 2200 2400 11 ru?( 2800 3000 3200 3-:0(' HUNDREDS OF MATURE TREES ARE BEING ILLICITLY CUT EVERY YEAR, WITHOUT REPORTING OR PERMITS* * "ARBORIST LETTERS ALONE IDENTIFY 342 (DUE TO A LEGAL LOOPHOLE FL STATUTE 163-045) AND Attachment D to 3-13-25 Minutes 2011 2021 Nearly all mature trees destroyed for construction — a number could have been retained — but no incentive Attachment D to 3-13-25 Minutes vu� -Ov G 5UP11" Or 2021 Nearly all trees destroyed for construction, even at periphery and non -building area 2014 Attachment D to 3-13-25 Minutes 2017 2018 Mature specimen could easily have been kept, but incentives to do so are weak . ,� �; � .� /1 ;'�.. 7 ��,i' � :� p� �' �� ♦ r;' Attachment D to 3-13-25 Minutes C 12 r_t, �- 1, r-- r I -