Environmental Stewardship Committee (ESC) - 14 Sep 2023 - Agenda - Pdf
City of Atlantic Beach
Agenda
Environmental Stewardship Committee (ESC)
Meeting
Thursday, September 14, 2023 - 6:00 p.m.
Commission Chamber
City Hall, 800 Seminole Road
Page(s)
1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
3. WELCOME ABOARD HEATHER MARKAJ
4. COURTESY OF THE FLOOR (5 MINS.)
5. CONSENT AGENDA
5.A. ESC August 9, 2023 minutes 3 - 7
Environmental Stewardship Committee (ESC) - 09 Aug 2023 - Minutes - Pdf
5.B. Tree Subcommittee
5.C. Sustainability and Resiliency Subcommittee
5.D. Outreach Subcommittee Minutes 9 - 11
ESC Outreach Subcommittee Aug 16 minutes
6. 90 DAY CALENDAR
7. CHAIR REMARKS
7.A. Strategic Scope 19 August Shapers and Jax Climate Coalition Communications
Workshop
7.B. Member term expirations
8. SIGNIFICANT MATTERS ARISING INS SUBCOMMITTEE
8.A. Tree
8.B. Outreach
8.C. Sustainability and Resiliency
8.D. Charter Review
9. MAYOR AND/OR STAFF REPORT
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Environmental Stewardship Committee (ESC) - 14 Sep 2023
10. OLD BUSINESS
10.A. COAB Chemical Management Plan 13 - 30
CMP 09.08.23
The City of Atlantic Beach Chemical Management Plan_2 09.08.23
10.B. ESC meeting rules 31
ESC mtg rules _rev2 09.08.23
11. NEW BUSINESS
11.A. Proposed changes to Chapter 23 33 - 40
Proposed Changes to Chapter 23 r2
12. MEMBERS CLOSING REMARKS
13. ADJOURNMENT
Any person wishing to speak to the Environmental Stewardship Committee on any matter at
this meeting should submit a Comment Card located at the entrance to Commission Chamber
prior to the start of the meeting.
This meeting will be live-streamed and videotaped. To access live or recorded videos, click on
the Meeting Videos tab on the city's home page at www.coab.us.
In accordance with the American with Disabilities Act and Section 286.26 of the Florida Statutes,
persons with disabilities needing special accommodations to participate in this meeting should
contact City Clerk Donna Bartle at 247-5809 or at City Hall, 800 Seminole Road, Atlantic Beach,
Florida not less than three (3) days prior to the date of this meeting.
14.
14.A. ayo
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Agenda Item #5.A.
14 Sep 2023
MINUTES
Environmental Stewardship Committee (ESC)
Meeting
Wednesday, August 9, 2023 - 6:00 PM
Commission Chamber
Present: Anastasia Houston, At Large Member
Amy Palmer, At Large Member
Linda Chipperfield, At Large Member
Patrick Nobles, At Large Member
Mark Gabrynowicz, Chair
Daniele Giovannucci, Vice Chair
Sarah Boren, District 1306 Member
Bruce Andrews, District 1308 Member
Absent: Romy Vann, At Large Member
Barbie Brooksher, District 1312 Member
Also Present: Amanda Askew, Director or Planning and Community Development
1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
Mark Gabrynowicz called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Linda Chipperfield called the roll.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Mark Gabrynowicz removed item #10. Reports. Members Closing Remarks moved to item #10
and Adjournment moved to item #11.
3. COURTESY OF THE FLOOR (5 MINS.)
Chanel Ham, ABPD Dispatcher, suggested the committee reach out to UNF for volunteers for
their work groups and subcommittees. Members encouraged Chanel Ham to apply to be an ESC
member.
4. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approval of the July 12, 2023 ESC minutes
Mark Gabrynowicz said he had administrative changes that he would send to Amanda
Askew
B. Approval of the Outreach Subcommittee minutes/report
MOTION: to approve the consent agenda
Motion: Daniele Giovannucci
Second: Bruce Andrews
Environmental Stewardship Committee (ESC)
August 9, 2023
Page 1 of 5
Page 3 of 40
Agenda Item #5.A.
14 Sep 2023
Anastasia Houston For
Amy Palmer For
Linda Chipperfield For
Patrick Nobles For
Mark Gabrynowicz For
Daniele Giovannucci (Moved By) For
Sarah Boren For
Bruce Andrews (Seconded By) For
Motion passed 8 to 0.
5. 90 DAY CALENDAR
A. 90 Day Calendar Reivew
Sarah Boren gave a brief overview of the calendar. Mark Gabrynowicz encouraged
members to sign up to attend ESC meetings as the committee representative. Bruce
Andrews suggested adding the Ribault Garden Club meeting on September 21st. Daniele
Giovannucci spoke about growing the contact list. Sarah Boren encouraged members to
send her contacts so she can add them to the list of contacts and newsletter recipients.
6. CHAIR REMARKS
A. Global Shapers and Jacksonville Climate Coalition- Workshop August 19
Climate Conversations Workshop: Jacksonville Climate Coalition Tickets, Sat,
Aug 19, 2023 at 9:00 AM | Eventbrite
Mark Gabrynowicz stated Romy Vann will be attending this. Sarah Boren said she and
Anastasia Houston will also be attending.
B. Committee Collaboration
Mark Gabrynowicz re-emphasized members signing up to attend meetings. Mark
Gabrynowicz said he is encouraging Commission to approve adding a statement to the
Charter about Environmental Stewardship. Discussion about the Charter Review and
environmental statement ensued.
C. September meeting moved from 9/13 to 9/14 (due to Commission budget workshop)
7. SIGNIFICANT MATTERS ARISING IN SUBCOMMITTEES
A. Sustainability and Resiliency Subcommittee
Sarah Boren reported the subcommittee did not meet. She spoke about grant funding and
suggested having a strategy meeting about obtaining grant funds. She spoke about
Overalls, a "membership" community farm in historic Springfield, and touched on the
opportunity to do a similar program in Atlantic Beach. Discussion ensued.
Environmental Stewardship Committee (ESC)
August 9, 2023
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Agenda Item #5.A.
14 Sep 2023
Sarah Boren reported that Melinda Simmons, professor at JU, proposed the ESC craft a
capstone project for the students in the Masters of Public Policy program to help the ESC
with the Community Action Plan.
B. Outreach Subcommittee
Sarah Boren reported they are still recruiting for the benchmarking program. Linda
Chipperfield reported staff is working to send a postcard for the Verified Tree Service
Program. She said Romy Vann is working on contacting new homeowners and Barbie
Brooksher is contacting realtors about the free tree program and the tree code.
Linda Chipperfield said she had not heard about the welcome packets. Amy Palmer said
the money is in the budget for next year. Amy Palmer discussed the environmental film
series and said she hopes this will start in 2024.
Linda Chipperfield asked Mark Gabrynowicz the status on using tree fund money for the
demonstration garden. He said there was no contest to this. Discussion about the
demonstration garden ensued.
Bruce Andrews gave suggestions for website updates. Discussion ensued.
C. Tree Subcommittee
Bruce Andrews stated that he had an emergency item for the Chapter 23 update. He
stated there is a homeowner that wants to take a tree that was planted for mitigation more
than 3 years ago but is not a regulated tree that can be removed without a permit. He
proposed adding the following sentence to Chapter 23: "any tree planted as mitigation
under section 23-33 shall be considered a regulated tree under section 23-8 and not be
subject to minimum caliper size of 8 inches". Discussion ensued about how to move
forward with making changes to Chapter 23. Members agreed revisions to chapter 23
need to be brought to Commission this calendar year. Daniele Giovannucci volunteered
to review Fernandina, Nassau, and Alachua County's tree ordinances before next
meeting.
Bruce Andrews discussed beautification and reworking the of Seminole Road and
Atlantic Boulevard intersection.
MOTION: to ask the city to design the Seminole Road and Atlantic Boulevard intersection
to improve connectivity, safety, beautification, and heat issues as it is a primary gateway to the
city
Motion: Bruce Andrews
Second: Daniele Giovannucci
Anastasia Houston For
Amy Palmer For
Linda Chipperfield For
Patrick Nobles For
Environmental Stewardship Committee (ESC)
August 9, 2023
Page 3 of 5
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Agenda Item #5.A.
14 Sep 2023
Mark Gabrynowicz For
Daniele Giovannucci (Seconded By) For
Sarah Boren For
Bruce Andrews (Moved By) For
Motion passed 8 to 0.
8. MAYOR AND/OR STAFF REPORT
A. Sea Turtle Conservancy and COAB webinar - turtle friendly lighting - August 31,
9am
Webinar Registration - Zoom
Amanda Askew reviewed the upcoming Sea Turtle Conservancy webinar and
encouraged members to participate.
B. Use of Tree Mitigation funds for replacement palms on Atlantic Blvd.
Amanda Askew reported that they are looking to replace some palms in the right of way
on Atlantic Boulevard. She said she is going to look into cost sharing and come back
with numbers.
C. Parks Master Plan update
Amanda Askew reported the city is opening up the parks master plan that will involve
community meetings and joint meeting between ESC and ARC to establish some
programming.
Amanda Askew reported there will be a budget meeting August 14, 2023.
9. OLD BUSINESS
A. Chemical Management Plan
Mark Gabrynowicz reported the restructured the plan. He asked for input on the plan.
10. MEMBERS CLOSING REMARKS
A. Public Comment
Chanel Ham said she is working the police department to have more recycle bins, create
an environmental board in the office, and develop social media posts about being
environmentally friendly.
11. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further discussion, Mark Gabrynowicz declared the meeting adjourned at 8:15
p.m.
Attest:
Environmental Stewardship Committee (ESC)
August 9, 2023
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Agenda Item #5.A.
14 Sep 2023
Amanda Askew Mark Gabrynowicz, Chair
Environmental Stewardship Committee (ESC)
August 9, 2023
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Agenda Item #5.D.
14 Sep 2023
COAB ESC Outreach Subcommittee
Aug 16, 2023 Meeting Agenda
1.Call to Order and Roll Call
Attending: Mark, Amy, Anastasia, Linda
Absent: Sarah, Patrick, Barbie
2.Courtesy of the Floor
No visitors
3.Approval of Minutes
Approved
4.Chair Remarks
Linda will miss the next 2 ESC meetings and Anastasia will post the Record of Decisions.
Decision: OSC members to send Linda updates on projects 1 week before ESC meeting for the
subcommittee report.
st
Decision: OSC to send Sarah metrics on social media, events, and collateral by the 1 of each
the month.
5.Agenda Items
5.A. Budget report
th
September 11 is the first public hearing.
5.B. Calendar/Planning/Metrics updates
No discussion.
5.C. Water & Energy Benchmarking Program update (Priority 1C)
No discussion.
5.D. AB Ambassadors Program update (Priority 2A)
Lead needs to be clarified. ESC needs to discuss our role as the program goes beyond environment to
all city activities.
5.E. AB-Verified Tree Services (Priority 2B)
Direct mail printed, ready to mail to tree services.
Input on consumer postcard:
-Ask services if they have permission to solicit?
-Warn consumer to protect themself—homeowner is responsible to know about permits
Discussion on sending card to nurseries. Possibly creating a landscaper verification in 2024.
Decision: Linda to ask Amanda if there is a landscaper service list.
Decision: Anastasia to send Arbor Day Tree Survey to OSC.
5.F. Welcome Kit update (Priority 5C)
No input yet.
Decision: Amy to follow up with Kevin.
5.G. Demonstration Garden update (Priority 5D)
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Agenda Item #5.D.
14 Sep 2023
Anastasia is in touch with Earthworks for a design proposal, sending them a survey of Bull Park, and
getting a meeting with AARC.
5.H. Environmental Film Series update (Priority 5)
Discussion on partnering with Movies in the Park and/or Movie Night at Adele Grage. Preference is to
show the film inside, and topics may not be appropriate for all ages.
Decision: Amy to move forward planning Path for Panther viewing.
5.I. ESC Member Onboarding Package update (Priority 5G)
No discussion.
5.J. AB vulnerability assessment and implementation Outreach campaign (Priority 4A) –
No discussion.
5.K. Recycling campaign for multi-family units (Priority 5)
No discussion.
6.New Business
6.A. Promote Sea Turtle Conservancy and COAB webinar - turtle friendly lighting - August 31, 9am
Decision: Patrick to get notices/promo activities from Kevin to post.
6.B. Chemical Management Plan
Need more input from ESC and plan needs to be focused and targeted with priorities in mind.
GHG issues are connected to current Energy Reduction campaign. Suggestion for next meeting to
analyze most effective outreach tactics.
Decision: Mark to send Linda the rebate links for homeowners installing low-energy appliances
and materials for infographic
7.Adjournment
Meeting adjourned at 5:45.
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Agenda Item #5.D.
14 Sep 2023
Direct Mail to tree services
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Agenda Item #10.A.
14 Sep 2023
1 The City of Atlantic Beach Chemical Management Plan (CMP)
2
3 Background
4Protecting our environment from chemical contamination is a core priority of the City of
5Atlantic Beach (COAB). As stated in the Comprehensive plan Goal D.3, “The city shall protect
6preserve and maintain natural environmental resources so as to maintain or enhance air
7quality, water quality, vegetative communities’ wildlife habitats, and the natural functions of
8soils fisheries wetlands and estuarine marshes”. The explosive growth of the use of chemicals
9since the 1930s has made the realization of this goal progressively more difficult. “Better living
10through chemistry” a variation of Du Pont’s famous advertising slogan, manifests the belief that
11through science we can improve our lives and control our environment. This optimistic view
12was supported by many early successes but because of failures to fully appreciate the impact of
13the new wonder chemicals, we subsequently learned that sometimes our fix to the initial
14problems created problems far greater than the original problem. Today we recognize the
15need to protect our health and the health of our environment through proper management of
16the chemicals we use. The objectives of the COAB CMP are to inform, instruct and to establish
17guidelines for the management of chemicals within the city limits to advance attainment of
18Goal D.3
19
20 Scope
21We need not be chemists to understand the full impact of chemicals on our lives and our
22environment but do need to understand and manage the impacts of those chemicals we use.
23The following are the five categories of the chemicals addressed in the CMP:
24
25Biocides
26 Pollutants from Storm Runoff
27Pollutants from Hazardous Waste
28Green House Gases (GHG)
29Pollutants from Hazardous Airborne Chemicals
30
31The CMP with its five categories is expansive each with a range of sources, effects, and
32potential mitigation measures. While we can never eliminate all the harmful chemicals in our
33environment, our goal is to increase awareness of their impacts and advocate safe use and
34disposal to minimize the environmental impact. Initial steps of the plan are:
35
361.Defining the scope of the problem,
372.Clarification of Issues
383.Development of a Plan of Action (POA)
39
40As with all plans, periodic reviews with assessments of actions taken and corrections where
41warranted are required. This CMP will be a standalone plan but as elements of all five
42categories are addressed in other COAB Plans and Ordinances, the CMP will be integrated with
43these other directives.
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Agenda Item #10.A.
14 Sep 2023
44 Category 1 Biocides
45
46 Scope of Problem
47The CMP uses the more inclusive term “Biocide” instead of the more common “pesticide” as
48our history as shown that pesticides have had an unintended detrimental impact beyond the
49pesticide’s targeted group of “pests”. This preference notwithstanding, the use of “pesticide
50“appears when referencing outside sources.
51
52 We aggressively seek to control pests in our homes, in our gardens, at our workspaces and in
53public areas. Fortunately, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) narrows the scope of
54what we can and cannot use to control pests. Manufacturers and distributors of pesticides
55additionally have strict laws regarding their manufacture, sale, and application.
56
57Common practice is to periodically apply specifically formulated biocides to areas we seek to
58control. While effective, these biocides may either directly or indirectly affect other living
59organisms. Mitigation of these unintended consequences is the focus of biocide control.
60
61 Issues
62Biodiversity loss was ranked as the third most severe threat humanity will face in the next 10
63years in the World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report 2022
64Overuse or misuse of pest management biocides has significantly decreased our native
65biodiversity. Targeted pests may have been a source of food for other organisms or may have
66contributed to sustaining a balance in the broader species population. The elimination or
67reduction of the targeted species often results in the propagation of invasive species.
68
69
70 Definitions
71The EPA defines a “pesticide” (with certain minor exceptions) as:
72Any substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, repelling,
73or mitigating any pest.
74Any substance or mixture of substances intended for use as a plant regulator, defoliant,
75or desiccant.
76Any nitrogen stabilizer.
77
78EPA also defines “pest” as:
79Any species, strain or biotype of plant, animal, or pathogenic agent injurious to plants
80and plant products, materials or environments and includes vectors of parasites or
81pathogens of human and animal disease and animals causing public health nuisance.
82
83
84
85Additional EPA definitions are at:
86https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCODE-2013-title7/html/USCODE-2013-title7-chap6-
87subchapII-sec136.htm
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Agenda Item #10.A.
14 Sep 2023
88
89
90 Development of a Plan of Action (POA)
91
92 Goal 1: Assess current state of pest infestation in all COAB ecosystems.
93Collect information on the presence of pests, their life cycles, and their interaction with
94the environment.
95Evaluate degree of pest damage.
96Identify correlation with existing COAB plans and ordinances to avoid conflicts and
97remedy if required.
98
99 Goal 2: Develop an Integrated Pest Management (IPM). With Goal 1 data assess best available
100pest control methods, to mitigate existing pest damage and prevent additional pest damage by
101the most economical means with the least possible hazard to people, property, and the
102environment.
103The IPM will:
104Promote the judicious use of pesticides.
105Establish environmentally friendly pest control practices to include an increased
106use of natural landscaping to obviate pesticide use.
107Establish action thresholds for early identification of pest invasion to minimize
108impact and spread.
109Advocate coordination with neighboring communities to expand safe, effective
110pest management.
111
112 Category 2 Pollutants from Storm Runoff
113
114 Scope of Problem
115When rainwater flows over hard surfaces directly into a storm drain, there is no opportunity for
116soil and plants or a water treatment facility to filter out pollutants, nitrogen and phosphorus
117from fertilizers, pet and yard waste. Nitrogen and phosphorus are nutrients that are natural
118parts of aquatic ecosystems and support the growth of algae and aquatic plants, which provide
119food and habitat for fish, shellfish and smaller organisms that live in water.
120
121 Issues
122Too much nitrogen and phosphorus in the water causes algae to grow faster than ecosystems
123can handle. Significant increases in algae harm water quality, food resources and habitats, and
124decrease the oxygen that fish and other aquatic life need to survive. Large growths of algae
125(algal blooms) can severely reduce or eliminate oxygen in the water, leading to illnesses in fish
126and the death of large numbers of fish. Some algal blooms are harmful to humans because they
127produce elevated toxins and bacterial growth that can make people sick if they encounter
128polluted water, consume tainted fish or shellfish, or drink contaminated water.
129
130Nutrient pollution in ground water can be harmful, even at low levels. Infants are vulnerable to
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Agenda Item #10.A.
14 Sep 2023
131a nitrogen-based compound called nitrates in drinking water. Excess nitrogen in the
132atmosphere can produce pollutants such as ammonia and ozone, which can impair our ability
133to breathe, limit visibility and alter plant growth. When excess nitrogen comes back to earth
134from the atmosphere, it can harm the health of forests, soils and waterways.
135
136Green infrastructure works by slowing down the runoff, spreading it out over the land, and
137slowly soaking it into the ground, or in some cases reusing the water onsite. Green
138infrastructure is also sometimes referred to as low impact development. These techniques also
139help to remove pollutants from runoff, buy allowing plants to filter out pollutants as the water
140slowly infiltrates into the ground. Some examples of green infrastructure techniques include
141rain gardens, pervious pavement, rain barrels, and green roofs.
142
143https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure
144
145 Development of a Plan of Action (POA)
146
147 Goals: Assess current state of Storm Water Management (SWM)
148
149If warranted, conduct assessment using EPA’s National Stormwater Calculator :
150 https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2019-08/stormwatercalculator-v2.0.0.1.zip
151Develop short- and long-term goals to correct identified problems.
152Identify correlation with existing COAB plans and ordinances to avoid conflicts and
153remedy if required.
154Develop educational program to increase community awareness of SWM
155
156 Category 3 Pollutants from Hazardous Waste
157
158 Scope of Problem
159 A hazardous waste is an unwanted/discarded material with properties that make it dangerous
160or capable of having a harmful effect on human health or the environment. These properties
161include ignitability, reactivity, corrosivity or toxicity. Hazardous waste is generated from many
162sources, ranging from industrial manufacturing process wastes to batteries and may come in
163many forms, including liquids, solids gases, and sludges. The most significant hazardous waste
164concerns are related to commercial/industrial uses; however two other categories of waste,
165Universal Wastes and Household Hazardous Wastes (HHW) are a concern to our community
166
167Universal Wastes generally pose a lower threat relative to other hazardous wastes but are
168ubiquitous and produced in very large quantities. Some of the most common are: fluorescent
169light bulbs, some specialty batteries (e.g. lithium or lead containing batteries), cathode ray
170tubes, and mercury-containing devices.
171Universal wastes are subject to somewhat less stringent regulatory requirements must still be
172disposed of properly.
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Agenda Item #10.A.
14 Sep 2023
173 HHW is generated from residential households. HHW only applies to waste coming from the
174use of materials that are labeled for and sold for "home use". Waste generated by a company
175or at an industrial setting is not HHW.
176The following list includes categories often applied to HHW. It is important to note that many of
177these categories overlap and that many household wastes can fall into multiple categories:
178Paints and solvents
179Automotive wastes (used motor oil, antifreeze, etc.)
180Pesticides (insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, etc.)
181Mercury-containing wastes (thermometers, switches, fluorescent lighting, etc.)
182Electronics (computers, televisions, mobile phones)
183Aerosols / Propane cylinders
184Caustics / Cleaning agents
185Refrigerant-containing appliances
186Some specialty batteries (e.g. lithium, nickel cadmium, or button cell batteries)
187Ammunition
188Asbestos
189Car batteries
190Radioactive wastes (some home smoke detectors are classified as radioactive waste
191because they contain very small amounts of radioactive isotope americium,
192Smoke from chimneys
193
194 Issues
195Unfortunately, disposal of both Universal Waste and HHW is all too easy as the proper disposal
196is way too hard. Simply adding the HHW and Universal Waste to regular waste containers for
197routine collection or dumping the waste in our yards does not require any additional discrete
198action when compared to the effort required to collect, store, and transfer the waste to an
199officially designated collection site.
200
201 Development of a Plan of Action (POA)
202
203 Goal 1: Assess current state of HHW and Universal collection opportunities.
204If warranted develop in collaboration with neighboring communities more frequent and
205more accessible collection sites.
206Develop waste disposal goals.
207Develop educational program to increase community awareness of HHW and Universal
208Waste goals and disposal opportunities.
209 Goal 2: Assess adequacy of plans to contain and chemical waste and biohazard spills.
210If warranted revise plans in collaboration with neighboring communities to revise.
211
212 Category 4 Greenhouse Gases (GHG)
213
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Agenda Item #10.A.
14 Sep 2023
214 Scope of Problem
215The earth receives radiant energy from the sun—part of which is reflected back to space. Some
216gases, including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, surround the earth and trap some
217of this energy—keeping the surface warm and making life on earth possible. Gases that trap
218heat in the atmosphere are called greenhouse gases.
219
220
221Carbon dioxide (CO): Carbon dioxide enters the atmosphere through burning fossil
2
222fuels (coal, natural gas, and oil), solid waste, trees and other biological materials, and
223also as a result of certain chemical reactions (e.g., manufacture of cement). Carbon
224dioxide is removed from the atmosphere (or "sequestered") when it is absorbed by
225plants as part of the biological carbon cycle.
226
227Methane (CH): Methane is emitted during the production and transport of coal, natural
4
228gas, and oil. Methane emissions also result from livestock and other agricultural
229practices, land use and by the decay of organic waste in municipal solid waste landfills.
230
231Nitrous oxide (NO): Nitrous oxide is emitted during agricultural, land use, and industrial
2
232activities; combustion of fossil fuels and solid waste; as well as during treatment of
233wastewater.
234
235Fluorinated gases: Hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, sulfur hexafluoride, and nitrogen
236trifluoride are synthetic, powerful greenhouse gases that are emitted from a variety of
237household, commercial, and industrial applications and processes. Fluorinated gases (especially
238hydrofluorocarbons) are sometimes used as substitutes for stratospheric ozone-depleting
239substances (e.g., chlorofluorocarbons, hydrochlorofluorocarbons, and halons). Fluorinated
240gases are typically emitted in smaller quantities than other greenhouse gases, but they are
241potent greenhouse gases. With significantly global warming potentials (GWPs) they are
242sometimes referred to as high-GWP gases because, for a given amount of mass, they trap
243substantially more heat than CO
2.
244
245 Issues
246We burn fossil fuels such as oil, coal, and natural gas to heat and light our homes and
247businesses, create electricity, and provide transportation. Expanding populations and economic
248activity (trade and building) result in increases in GHG emissions which increases atmospheric
249warming which changes our climate.
250
251Given the scale of the excessive GHG emissions and its global impact on life it seems that
252individuals and small communities such as ours are powerless to effect change. There are
253nonetheless some behavioral changes individuals can adopt which contribute to the reduction
254of GHG emissions.
255On a larger scale more impactful measures are available to deal with the consequences of
256climate change to enhance the sustainability and resiliencies of our community.
257
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Agenda Item #10.A.
14 Sep 2023
258
259 Development of a Plan of Action (POA)
260 Goal 1: Complete a review of existing governance to establish current regulatory state.
261Identify gaps in city contracts involving potential release of GHG, e.g., idling of
262motor vehicles, efficiency of city-controlled HVAC systems, use of battery
263powered equipment and make recommendations to minimize GHG release when
264warranted.
265Review Building Codes to require the most efficient standards for new
266construction e.g., reducing the urban heat island effect by planting trees and
267incorporating reflective roofs and light-colored pavement.
268Expand use of renewable energy resources for controlled facilities.
269Develop strategies to include Advanced Meter Infrastructure for real-time
270energy consumption information and community-based social marketing
271programs and incentive programs for building retrofits that increase energy
272efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint of existing buildings..
273
274 Goal 2:
275Advocate individual and community adoption of less fossil fuel energy
276dependent practices to include inter alia:
277 o Using landscaping to increase summer shading and minimize air
278conditioning use.
279 o Promote community campaign to educate about food choice as part of a
280climate-friendly lifestyle. Specifically encourage reduced consumption of
281red meat and dairy products and other carbon-intensive foods.
282 o Encourage the community to engage in their most impactful action to
283reduce GHG:
284
285 Elect government officials at all levels of
286 representation who understand the impact of
287 increasing GHG and are willing to take positive
288 steps to reduce those GHG emissions.
289
290
291
292
293
294
295
296
297
298
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Agenda Item #10.A.
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299 Category 5 Pollutants from Hazardous Airborne Chemicals
300
301 Scope of Problem
302Hazardous air pollutants also known as toxic air pollutants or air toxics, are those pollutants
303that are known or suspected to cause cancer or other serious health effects, such as
304reproductive effects or birth defects, or adverse environmental effects
305Examples of toxic air pollutants include:
306benzene, which is found in gasoline;
307perchloroethylene, which is emitted from some dry-cleaning facilities; and
308methylene chloride, which is used as a solvent and paint stripper by industries.
309
310Other listed air toxics include dioxin, asbestos, toluene, and metals such as cadmium, mercury,
311chromium, and lead compounds. While this class of pollutants is not a significant problem in
312COAB, they nonetheless are present and warrant control to prevent inadvertent into the
313environment.
314
315 Issues
316Like the GHG emissions issue we have almost no means to control the air we breathe on a city-
317wide scale. We can however adopt localized measures to reduce hazardous airborne
318chemicals.
319
320 Development of a Plan of Action (POA)
321 Goal 1: Complete a review of existing governance to determine current state of rules
322related to:
323 o permitting open air burning (campfires and waste)
324 o commercial use of perchloroethylene and methylene chloride
325 o
326 Goal 2: Develop proposals to correct deficiencies in governance found during the
327review.
328
329 Goal 3: Develop community awareness program to address dangers of Hazardous
330Airborne Chemicals.
331
332
333
334
335
336
337
338
339
340
Page 30 of 40
Agenda Item #10.B.
14 Sep 2023
ESC Meeting Rules
Regular meetings shall be held once a month the second Wednesday of the month at 6:00pm. A simple
majority of members will constitute a quorum. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee members, the
order by which matters are considered in regular meetings shall be as follows:
AGENDA
(1) Call to Order and Roll Call
(2) Approval of Agenda
(3) Courtesy of the Floor
(4) Consent Agenda
4.A. Prior ESC meeting minutes approval
4.B.Subcommittee Reports
(5)90 Day Calendar
(6) Chair’s Remarks
(7) Significant Matters Arising in Subcommittees
(8) Mayor’s and/or Staff’s Requests
(9) Old Business
(10) New Business
(11) Members’ Closing Remarks
(11) Adjourn
Special Meetings. The Committee may at any time convene meetings, other than the regular ones to complete
pending Committee business or to introduce new matters. The calling of such meetings
shall conform to the City’s legal requirements. Official action may be taken on matters under consideration if a
quorum and chair are present.
Items placed on the agenda shall be officially before the Committee at the meeting and shall be considered for
discussion at the assigned place on the agenda. Agenda items such as subcommittee reports and other matters
will normally be provided to Members at least seven days prior to Regular or Special Meetings to allow for
adequate review. Agenda items shall be considered as proposals for adoption. An agenda item before the
Council for which no motion is made to adopt, or no Council members favor, shall be concluded by the Chair,
following the discussion by stating, “In the absence of a motion, the proposal fails adoption.”
Requests may be used for presentation to the Committee by the Mayor or Staff under the Mayor’s Requests
and or Staff’s Request Agenda Item. These requests may be responded to by a motion to approve, grant, adopt
or deny the proposed request. Such requests shall be submitted in writing and appropriately recorded.
All motions shall be recorded with a means that will identify the proposal with the year and the order in which
they are presented to the Committee. The secretary to the Committee shall keep a record of all motions.
The Chair or designee shall be responsible for the conduct of regular and special meetings, preparation of the
meeting agendas, preparation of the meeting agendas, caring for Committee needs when it is not convened,
assisting in gathering information for the Committee and the performance of duties assigned by the Committee
and Mayor.
Work Groups Nnon-statutory subcommittees may be designed as required to act on Committee tasking. These
bodies shall consist of a minimum of three ESC members, be headed by a designated Chairperson, and be
governed by the applicable rules and procedures which govern the Committee. Working Groups may be
established and governed by agreed rules.
Committee members shall be present at regular or special meetings in which action is taken. Members’ votes
on motions when called to vote by the Secretary or Chair shall be aye, nay. , or present.
Procedures not provided herein or by City procedures shall be regulated by Robert’s Rules of Order.
ESC Meeting Rules rev 2September 14 March 8, 2023
Page 31 of 40
Page 32 of 40
Agenda Item #11.A.
14 Sep 2023
Proposed Changes to Chapter 23
Sec. 23-4. Amendments to this chapter.
The city commission shall have the authority to amend this chapter as needed to implement its intent, or to
implement objectives and policies of the comprehensive plan, or otherwise enact updates as may be appropriate.
Amendment to this chapter shall be made in accordance with the established procedures for amending any
portion of this Code of Ordinances.
Tree Canopy Management
Discussion
The 12Jul21 repeal and adoption of a completely revised Chapter 23,
corrected inconsistencies, removed redundancies, and enhanced
measures to conserve, restore, and protect the natural environment.
Significantly, Tree Canopy management and protection measures were
strengthened. Much was achieved but we recognized there was more to
do and that we would need to recommend changes to the Chapter to
enact additional changes with the goal of enhancing the provisions.
Matters related to Management of the Tree Canopy have dominated the
update discussions.
Tree Fund Use
Existing code:
Sec. 23-14. Tree conservation fund.
(a)Establishment of tree fund. The city commission hereby recognizes and reaffirms the prior establishment of
the tree conservation fund ("tree fund") for the purposes of accepting and disbursing monies paid to the city
as part of tree mitigation and any other funds deposited with the city for the purpose of tree and vegetation
conservation and protection. This fund shall be used solely for the planting of trees, the protection and
conservation of existing trees where appropriate, or the re-establishment of vegetative resources in the city
and any other ancillary costs associated with such activities, provided that such ancillary costs shall not
exceed twenty (20) percent of the cost of the particular project.
(b)Terms of existence. The tree fund shall be self-perpetuating from year to year unless specifically terminated
by the city commission.
(c)Tree fund assets. All funds received shall be placed in trust for and inure to the public use and environmental
benefit of the city. Said funds shall be used and distributed as designated by the city commission.
(d)Tree fund administration.
Page 33 of 40
Agenda Item #11.A.
14 Sep 2023
(1)Tree funds shall be used only for the purposes designated by the city commission in accordance with
the intent of this chapter and the applicable goals, objectives and policies as set forth within the
comprehensive plan.
(2)All mitigation funds collected pursuant to this chapter shall be deposited into the tree fund, which shall
be a separate account established and maintained apart from the general revenue fund of the city.
(e)Disbursal of tree fund assets.
(1)Expenditures for projects funded by the tree fund shall be made in accordance with the established
purchasing procedures of the city. The environmental stewardship committee (ESC) shall review and
make recommendations on the disbursal of tree fund assets to the city commission. The city
commission shall have final approval on all disbursals of the tree fund assets.
(2)Priority shall be given to the use of funds for projects that plant or replace trees or vegetation along
public rights-of-way or on properties and lands in public use, or on lands owned by homeowners or
property owners associations, or on other private property provided the trees are planted within the
front yard setback areas or, in the case of corner lots only, the required side yard setback areas which
adjoin a public right-of-way that will provide needed shade, aesthetic enhancement or the re-
establishment of tree canopy in neighborhoods and along public roadways. For trees planted on
private property, the property owner shall be responsible for maintaining the health of the tree(s).
Should the administrator become aware of any tree dying or being in a state of decline within three (3)
years of being planted, the property owner shall be required to replace the tree within sixty (60) days
of that determination.
Secondarily, funds may be used for purchase of landscape materials or equipment necessary and
proper for the preservation, maintenance, relocation or restoration of trees and ecosystems on any
public land in the city, or for the funding of community educational programs which promote, enhance
or implement the goals and objectives established in this chapter.
Tree Planting Programs
1.Delete yellow highlighted area to enable expansion of the area
where trees may be planted.
2. Strengthening the homeowner’s obligation is required, e.g.,
changing burden of notification to the homeowner vice
administrator’s observation if the tree is not surviving; and
extending period of obligation from three years to six years to
maintain the tree. The application for Adopt a Tree requires
amendment accordingly.
ESC Tree Fund recommendations to the Commission
The code is sufficiently broad to enable pursuit of programs that the
ESC deems in line with the objectives of C23. A Tree Fund budget
management program should be established (separate from but in
Page 34 of 40
Agenda Item #11.A.
14 Sep 2023
compliance with C23) as soon as practical to establish scope of intended
use of funds, define priorities and facilitate consistent management.
Examples of budget items include:
1.Our much-discussed incentives program wherein services of
certified arborists and tree services providers are made available to
monitor and maintain the good health all designated Heritage
Trees.
2.Educational programs with a direct link to Tree Canopy
Management to include funding for printed and mailed materials,
support of Special Event
Tree Root Protection Zone
Protection of trees during construction or any digging activity which
may impact the tree roots is required. Trees may suffer damage from:
physical contact with equipment
poisoning from the use or dumping of chemicals such as cleaning
solvents, motor oil, muriatic acid near roots,
compacting of tree roots
tearing or severing of the roots by digging too closely
Establishing a root protection zone by erecting and maintaining a
durable and clearly staked barricade at the perimeter from the trunk is
necessary. For trees greater than 14 “DBH the minimum distance that
should be maintained free of heavy equipment or significant disturbance
is 1 1/2 feet of radius from the tree trunk for every inch of tree diameter.
For example, a 15” DBH tree needs a root protection radius of at least 22
feet in all directions. Smaller trees less than 14” DBH must be allowed a
1 foot of radius for the from the tree trunk for every inch diameter of
tree. For example, 10 “DBH tree would have a root protection zone
radius of at least 10 feet.
Page 35 of 40
Agenda Item #11.A.
14 Sep 2023
Recommendations:
Amend Sec 23-24 as follows:
Sec. 23-24. Inspections and site preparation.
(a)Inspections. The following inspections shall be conducted in conjunction with all development activities
subject to the requirement for a tree or vegetation removal permit.
(1)Initial inspection. The administrator shall conduct an initial inspection of the site prior to approval of
any application.
(2)Protective barricade inspection. A protective barricade inspection shall ensure proper installation of
measures prior to the initiation of any other development activity where required as a condition of the
permit. Establishing a root protection zone by erecting and maintaining a durable and clearly staked
barricade at the perimeter from the trunk is necessary. For trees greater than 14 “DBH the minimum
distance that should be maintained free of heavy equipment or significant disturbance is 1 1/2 feet of
radius from the tree trunk for every inch of tree diameter. For example, a 15” DBH tree needs a root
protection radius of at least 22 feet in all directions. Smaller trees less than 14” DBH must be allowed a
1 foot of radius for the from the tree trunk for every inch diameter of tree. For example, 10 “DBH tree
would have a root protection zone radius of at least 10 feet
(3)Final inspection and notice of completion. A final inspection and notice of completion shall occur when
all development activities permitted for the site have been completed. No certificate of occupancy
shall be issued, nor any building or premises occupied, unless and until the administrator has
determined after final inspection that all work, including land clearing, regulated tree or regulated
vegetation removal, tree protection and tree replacement, has been done in accordance with the
approved permit and plan.
(4)Maintenance inspections. The administrator shall have the authority during the required three (3) year
maintenance period to conduct on-site maintenance inspections subsequent to final inspection and
notice of completion, and to require correction of all deficiencies and violations in accordance with this
chapter.
(b)Site preparation. Prior to requesting initial and/or protective barricade inspection, the applicant shall prepare
the site with proper staking and taping as necessary to allow the administrator to locate and identify the lot
or parcel to be inspected; to determine the building site; to locate the proposed buildings or other proposed
structures or improvements that will disturb vegetation, and to ensure clear understanding between the
property owner, contractor, administrator and other inspectors that may be involved.
(1)The address or legal description of the property shall be displayed in a conspicuous manner.
(2)The property corners shall be marked according to survey with wooden stakes. Each stake shall be
flagged with surveyor's tape or with bright colored paint. Any property crossed by the coastal
construction control line shall have that line marked on the ground with conspicuous wooden stakes
and surveyor's tape or durable waterproof string and shall be clearly labeled "CCCL".
(3)All trees to be preserved during development activities, including vital root systems, shall be barricaded
according to a tree protection plan consistent with the guidelines in the Tree Protection Guide for
Builders and Developers, published by the Florida Division of Forestry and/or any other reasonable
requirements deemed appropriate by the administrator to implement this part.
(4)All trees proposed for removal shall be identified with red or orange surveyor's tape or paint.
(5)All trees proposed for protection as mitigation for removed trees shall be identified with blue or green
surveyor's tape or paint.
Page 36 of 40
Agenda Item #11.A.
14 Sep 2023
Membership of ESC
Discussion
1.The existing C23 contains language related to the establishment of
the inaugural ESC which includes allocation of seats by
Commissioners linked to their respective districts along with either
a three-year or four-year terms. This time and district allocation is
no longer applicable. Proposed change removes this obsolete
scheme.
2.ESC matters have not been district specific. While there are
historical, demographic, and ecosystem differences within the city,
ESC’s focus and activities have been applied uniformly to the city
has a whole. Given the broader city-wide versus the district scope
we should not reject a qualified applicant that does not meet the
district residency requirement. Paragraph (4) is amended to lessen
the requirement for district representation.
Proposed Changes
Sec. 23-52. - Environmental stewardship committee—Intent.
--(c)Membership, terms, appointments, geographic requirements, composition.
(1)Membership. The Eenvironmental Sstewardship Ccommittee shall be composed of eleven (11)
members. One-half (½) of the filled seats of the Ccommittee shall constitute a quorum.
Membership will be based on City District residency (four members) and non-district affiliation
(seven At Large) members. No member of the committee shall hold any other public office in
violation of Article II, Section 5(a), Florida Constitution.
(2)Terms. Following the expiration of the terms of office of the inaugural board members, Aall
members shall serve three-year terms. Members shall not serve more than three (3) consecutive
terms on the committee. All terms shall expire on December 31 of the proper year, provided,
however, that members whose terms expire shall continue to serve until replacement
appointments are effective. Any committee member who wishes to resign should submit a letter
of resignation to the chairman and city clerk. Any vacancy during the unexpired term of an
Page 37 of 40
Agenda Item #11.A.
14 Sep 2023
appointed member shall be filled for the remainder of the term. Should the length of the
unexpired term be less than one (1) year, then such appointment shall not count towards the
maximum number of consecutive terms.
(3)Appointments. Except for the inaugural committee members, Ccommittee members shall be
selected by the Bboard Mmember Rreview Ccommittee and shall be confirmed by the
commission. The commission shall select the inaugural committee members as follows:
Appointed By
Mayor (3 years)
Mayor (4 years)
Mayor (3 years)
Seat 2 commissioner (3 years)
Seat 2 commissioner (4 years)
Seat 3 commissioner (3 years)
Seat 3 commissioner (4 years)
Seat 4 commissioner (3 years)
Seat 4 commissioner (4 years)
Seat 5 commissioner (3 years)
Seat 5 commissioner (4 years)
(4)Geographical requirements. It is highly desirable that each of the city’s four
districts be represented on the committee by a member residing in that district.
There shall be at least one (1) member representing each city district on the
committee. Should a qualified applicant not meet the district residency
requirement then that applicant may be accepted as an At Large member to meet
full membership. Each committee member must be a full time resident of the city
or own real property in the city. For the purpose of this section, full time
residency shall be defined as the person's principal place of abode. Any member
must immediately notify the city manager and chair in writing upon no longer
meeting these membership qualifications.
(5)Composition. To the extent possible, committee members should demonstrate at
least one (1) of the following skills, experience, expertise, educational background
or interests:
a.Knowledge of best practices in environmental management and sustainability;
b.Land development and building construction;
c.Urban planning and design;
d.Arboriculture and horticulture;
e.Landscape architecture;
Page 38 of 40
Agenda Item #11.A.
14 Sep 2023
f.Environmental policy;
g.Environmental and constitutional law;
h.Community engagement; and
i.Educational programming
Other
Periodic updates of time-based provisions
Discussion
The ESC with the Administrator should establish a proforma
review process to incorporate recommend changes that arise that
are either routine (not requiring immediate action) or emergent.
An example of a periodic routine (annual?) would be to evaluate
the sufficiency of the fees associated with the tree removal
permitting process. The process would also include:
1.Review of mitigation calculations
2.Review of violations/penalties fees
Sec. 23-26. Fees.
(a)Application fees. The city commission hereby establishes the following fees related to the administrative
costs of carrying out the requirements of this chapter. These fees shall be payable to the city upon submittal
of an application for approval, amendment, or extension of a permit required by this chapter, or for each
required re-inspection, or when a final action or decision by the administrator is appealed. Applications for
tree and vegetation removal related requests shall not be considered as complete applications until such
time as required fees have been paid in full.
(1)Tree and vegetation removal permit application. The tree and vegetation removal permit application
fee shall cover the processing and review of the application as well as one (1) initial inspection, one (1)
protective barricade inspection, one (1) final inspection and one (1) maintenance inspection per year.
Any additional inspections required due to inadequate site preparation or reports of violation of the
provisions of this chapter will be charged a reinspection fee as provided below:
a.Single- or two-family residential uses (per lot)$125.00
b.Multifamily residential uses250.00
c.Commercial or industrial uses250.00
Page 39 of 40
Agenda Item #11.A.
14 Sep 2023
d.Institutional and any other uses250.00
(2)Extensions50.00
(3)Appeals125.00
(4)Variances300.00
(b)Reinspection fees.50.00
(c)Research or extensive time fees (per hour)50.00
Page 40 of 40