Green Efforts Committee Meeting August 6, 2024: Where a Lack of Quorum Leads to Questions, Composting, and Lighting Ordinance Insights
Welcome back, fellow Farmingtonians! The Green Efforts Committee convened on August 6, 2024, with a meeting so riveting it’ll have you questioning your efforts in contributing to a greener planet. In a scene that could only be described as ‘quorum-less and consequence-free,’ here’s your detailed dive into the happenings, or lack thereof, at the latest committee gathering.
Roll Call: Quorum’s AWOL
The meeting began in a manner befitting a suspense novel, with the committee realizing they were one short of a quorum. This minor detail meant that approving the June 4th meeting minutes would be as achievable as finding a plastic-free aisle in your local grocery store. With no one from the public present to comment, the meeting charged ahead like an electric vehicle low on battery but high on determination.
Public Education: Misattributions and Future Newsletters
In the realm of public education, the article on plastics by Bre found itself mistakenly attributed to the Planning and Zoning Department rather than the Green Efforts Committee. An error? Certainly. Intentional? Doubtful. Next time, they’ll ensure proper credits, perhaps even aiming for the fall newsletter with compelling content on the benefits of mulching leaves. A practical and seasonally apt topic, because who doesn’t love autumnal foliage neatly composting in their yard?
West Woods Composting Program: School’s Out for Summer, but Not Forever
No summer composting updates—because, surprise, it’s summer, and schools are out. The committee plans to resume composting discussions once the academic year kicks off. With aspirations of regular reports from TerraVerde, Blue Earth, and potential town-wide expansion, this composting initiative is one to watch. If successful, the program could spread to more schools, leading to a future where food waste is composted rather than trashed.
Littering Signs and Adopt-a-Road Program: A Yearlong Stagnation
The littering signs and adopt-a-road program remain in a state of inertia. Despite initial interest, the lack of ongoing participation has left this program in limbo. The committee considered a final push to recruit volunteers or simply letting it languish on the agenda until further notice.
Waste Reduction Goals: A SMART Idea
In the spontaneous realm of waste reduction, discussions touched on SMART boards left on 24/7 at Noah Wallace School. While the committee pondered the astronomical energy costs, they planned to address this with the Board of Education. Additionally, no-idling zones at schools were praised, except for the high school, which remains a construction zone.
Composting and Lighting Ordinances: In the Pipeline
Town-wide composting plans are temporarily shelved due to the high school project demanding attention. However, the Assistant Town Planner announced potential revisions to the town lighting ordinance, aiming for energy efficiency with timers, dimmer lights, and warmer light temperatures. This aligns with the dark sky initiatives, promoting eco-friendly lighting.
Closing Remarks: Looking Ahead
With the next meeting scheduled for September 3, the committee aims to finalize the 2025 meeting schedule. Clean-up Day, slated for April 26, 2025, will be a focal point, and planning will ensure that it’s an event to remember.
In closing, thanks to Farmington Storage at 155 Scott Swamp Road for sponsoring We Are Farmington. Need space for your composting bins or eco-friendly gear? Call them at 860.777.4001.
Until next time, stay green, Farmington!
Jack Beckett We Are Farmington
Disclaimer: This meeting summary is brought to you with a touch of satire and should be taken with a grain of compost-friendly salt.
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