Clean Energy Task Force Minutes November 28, 2012-Approved

CLEAN ENERGY TASK FORCE MINUTES
November 28, 2012
REGULAR MEETING

The meeting was called to order at 6:35 p.m. by Chairman Boeshans in room 103 of Simsbury Town Hall, with the following members present:  Patrick Boeshans, Susan Van Kleef, Melissa Valentin and Bob Beinstein. 

1.  REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM MEETING ON NOVEMBER 14, 2012
The draft minutes from the November 14th meeting were reviewed by all.  Commissioner Valentin made a motion to approve the minutes with noted changes.  Commissioner Beinstein seconded the motion.  All voted in favor. 

2.  PUBLIC AUDIENCE
Chairman Boeshans opened the floor to public audience.  No comments were entered into the record and the audience was closed. 

3.  2013 CETF CALENDAR
The draft calendar from the November 14th meeting was reviewed by the task force.  Commissioner Beinstein made a motion to approve the Calendar as written.  Commissioner Valentin seconded the motion.  All voted in favor. 

4.  2013 EDUCATIONAL INITIATIVE
A general discussion was held about target areas for 2013 educational assistance and financial support.    A recommendation was made that the CETF adopt several reoccurring educational initiatives to support.  Additional discussions were held regarding contest and scholarship opportunities.   The concept of an environmental or sustainability science fair was considered.  Additional thoughts centered on classroom specific contests that challenge the creativity and passion of Simsbury students.  It was agreed that the contest/program should be self supportive and not cause undue burden on the teachers.   The task force will begin gathering information from teachers about projects or needs that might fit into the CETF “Year of the Contest” initiative.

5.  CETF STAFFING PLAN
Necessary task force staffing was discussed including the recent appointment of new member Melissa Valentin and the re-appointment of founding member Jim Ray.  Commissioner Boeshans is reviewing the final open position and will provide additional details at the next meeting.

6.  OPEN FORUM
A general discussion was held regarding alternate (highest best use) of the Simsbury landfill near the community farm.

Simsbury Director of Public Works, Tom Roy, provided information regarding the Town’s energy plan which will be forwarded to the CETF members for review.  Additionally a general discussion was held regarding the Town’s position regarding the proposed Simsbury Clean Energy Pledge.

7.  ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner Van Kleef motioned to adjourn the meeting at approximately 8:00 p.m. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Beinstein and unanimously approved.