HomeMy WebLinkAboutGTF Minutes 05-29-12
MINUTES
Green Task Force
May 29, 2012 Meeting
nd
Downey City Hall – 2 Floor Training Room
11111 Brookshire Ave., Downey CA 90241
I. CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 5:04 PM by Vice Chair Steve Perez.
Members Present: George Manzanilla, Mario Mendoza, Alex Saab, Jose Magana, Sean
Ashton, Vice Chair Steve Perez
Members Absent: Jonathan Cousimano, Pat Owens, Janet Molinaro, Chair Anna Valcarcel
Staff: Shannon DeLong, Office of the City Manager
David Blumenthal, Planning Division
Others: Lars Clutterham
II. CONSENT CALENDAR:
It was moved by Member Saab, seconded by Member Mendoza, and unanimously carried to
approve the minutes from the April 23, 2012 meeting.
III. OLD BUSINESS:
1. Parkway Planter Project
a. Report from Ad-Hoc Committee
Member Ashton noted that the Ad-Hoc Committee has not met in a while, but he confirmed
that the City received a grant from Lowes to do a demonstration project at Furman park.
He further noted that this has been a joint effort with Keep Downey Beautiful, but the Green
Task Force members selected the plant palette.
The Task Force discussed how the project, once completed, can be used to benefit the
community. They further discussed how they can get information out to residents about the
project.
2. Twenty’s Plenty follow-up
Vice Chair Perez updated the Task Force on his efforts on bringing this campaign to the
City. He noted that he spoke with Public Works staff and was informed that City cannot
post official signs, but there is a potential to post unofficial signs.
Ms. DeLong noted that the Task Force should work on making information available to the
public by creating handouts and brochures. This can then be posted to the Green Task
Forces website.
The Task Force discussed how they need to continue to work with Public Works on this
project, but it can lead towards green living.
IV. NEW BUSINESS:
1. Discussion regarding October 3, 2012 “Walk to School Day”
Member Ashton noted that the purpose of the day is to encourage students to walk to
school for a healthier lifestyle.
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Lars Clutterham, resident, noted that this is the 16 year of the national program and it is
affiliated with the Safe Routes to School program. He further noted that a goal of the Walk
to School Day is to save gas and provide positive health impacts. He noted that he has
spoken to the school district and is beginning to get the word out to the various PTA’s to
promote the event.
Member Saab asked what the Green Task Force can do to help. Mr. Clutterham
responded that they can show support for Walk to School Day.
It was moved by Member Saab and seconded by Member Manzanilla that the Green Task
Force is in support of “Walk to School Day”, which will occur on October 3, 2012. The
motion passed unanimously (6-0).
The Task Force discussed the need to get information together and return on the next
meeting on how this can be further supported by the City.
V. PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS:
None.
VI. GREEN TASK FORCE COMMUNICATIONS
Member Saab inquired if the Chamber of Commerce has expressed any interest in becoming
involved in the Green Task Force meetings. He noted he would follow up with them.
Vice Chair Perez requested that the following two items be placed on future agendas for
discussion: 1) Community Gardens and how public awareness can be raised; and 2) How the
Green Task Force can use the annual Christmas parade to help raise awareness about green
living.
VII. STAFF COMMUNICATIONS
None
VIII. ADJOURNMENT:
Without objection the Green Task Force meeting was adjourned at 5:58 pm to 5:00 pm,
Monday, June 25, 2012.
GREEN TASK FORCE MINUTES, MAY 29, 2012 – PAGE 2