Newmarket Environmental Advisory Committee

THAT the Environmental Advisory Committee Minutes of February 12, 2014 be approved.

THAT the correspondence items, previously distributed by e-mail, be received.

The Environmental Advisory Committee recommends to Council: a) THAT Council direct staff to find a dedicated staff resource to coordinate environmental matters, establish environmental priorities based on best practice guidelines, seek appropriate funding and provide environmental accountability reporting within the Town of Newmarket; b) AND THAT an environmental accountability report be prepared each year for presentation to Council and the public; c) AND THAT Council reaffirm the 2008 draft environmental vision statement pending the preparation of a draft Community Environmental Plan; d) AND THAT Council recommend to the new council that budget priority be given in the next term of Council to fund the PCP Community Environmental Plan.

The Environmental Advisory Committee recommends to Council: Whereas staff and NEAC recommended approximately four years ago a plan to reduce the amount of garbage bags picked up at curbside; and Whereas Council decided that more time was needed before making a change; and Whereas green bin success continues to reduce the need for actual garbage to be picked up; and Whereas there have been successful programs to use clear plastic bags with Aurora being the first to proceed in the N6 municipalities; a) It is therefore recommended that Council direct staff to prepare a report on waste reduction and curbside garbage pickup; b) AND THAT such report addresses the waste strategy and communication implementation plan; c) AND THAT NEAC be consulted on any recommendations included in the plan; d) AND THAT the report be presented to Council in the first quarter of 2015.

The Environmental Advisory Committee recommends to Council: Whereas there is no additional requirement for water to be provided at the existing community gardens. Therefore be it resolved that Council authorize an extension of two rows at the existing community gardens; AND THAT NEAC contribute a maximum of $500.00 toward plowing and site preparation.

THAT the Committee authorize an expense up to $600 from the NEAC budget for the purchase of new signs for the Community Garage Sale.

THAT the meeting adjourn.