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HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-26-19 BCP Meeting Minutes Bozeman Climate Partners Working Group September 26, 2019, 2:00pm Madison Room, Bozeman City Hall (121 N Rouse Ave.) Present: Natalie Meyer, Heather Higinbotham Davies, Kathy Powell, Joan Montagne, Dan Perata (Independent Power Systems), Andrea Michael (Love Shack Architecture), Carolyn Warren (citizen), Carson Taylor (citizen), Addie Melvin (JM Engineering), Greg Findley (Sunrise Movement) A. Call Meeting to Order B. Changes to the Agenda C. Public Comment A. Michael shared that she attended the energy code listening session in Helena, and spoke with the MT Building Industry Association about their request for a more lenient code with regard to air tightness. She shared that the comments on talk wood buildings were very supportive. She shared that the board is still receiving written comments if anyone wanted to provide comments. N. Meyer shared that if the new code includes the solar ready addendum, the City of Bozeman would have the option to adopt that provision and enforce it. D. Perata shared that in his experience, the process for solar permitting in Bozeman is onerous and cumbersome compared to other jurisdictions such as Helena, Missoula, and areas in electric co-op service territory. D. Minutes Minutes from 8/22/19 approved E. New Business 1) Bozeman Climate Plan N. Meyer outlined the scope and objectives of the Bozeman Climate Plan, gave an overview of the website, and outlined the role of the Climate Team. She highlighted key industries/groups/stakeholders to include in the process. She shared that there will be a community-wide survey and two public community forums, the first of which is Oct. 23rd from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the Story Mill Community Center. The group discussed potential speakers for the Community Forum. Someone suggested Steven Rinella, who hosts the Meat Eater podcast and show. He is a hunter and speaks about using every part of an animal. N. Meyer shared that she has reached out to Conrad Anker and while he is not available for this event, he has been gracious about speaking at events and we hope to have him speak at a future event. N. Meyer shared that the event will be family friendly and the group discussed potential activities that could include kids, such as a tree planting demo or planting activity or inviting the group that had solar cars at the MT Renewable Energy Fair. There was a suggestion to tape a complete street to the floor with bike and pedestrian lanes to illustrate complete streets. There was a suggestion to have an electric vehicle charging station on display. N. Meyer shared that there will be a photo booth at the community forum to capture ideas for the community’s vision on climate change. The group discussed ideas for photo booth props, such as an EV charging cord, small solar panel, bike helmet, or plants to represent gardens. There was a suggestion to have an incentive for forum visitors to get stamps at every table to enter to win a free blower door test and infrared imaging of their home. 2) State and Public Service Commission Policy Updates N. Meyer provided an update on state and public service commission policies to be aware of. A. Michael shared the contact info for the MT Dept. of Labor and Industry to contact for the energy code. N. Meyer shared that the public service commission has committed to a ruling on the net metering portion of the NWE rate case by the end of 2019. She shared that there might not be a formal public comment period but that individuals could contact their representatives to provide comments. She shared that the MT DEQ testimony was compelling and encouraged the group to read it. Upcoming Events 1) Fix-it Clinic (9/28, 10am-2pm) 2) Bozeman Climate Plan Community Forum 10/23, 4:00-6:30pm, Story Mill Community Center G. Remarks for the Good of the Order H. Next Meeting – August 22, 2019 I. ADJOURNMENT – 3:30 p.m. For more information please contact Staff Liaison, Natalie Meyer at nmeyer@bozeman.net This working group generally meets the fourth Thursday of the month from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm Committee meetings are open to all members of the public. If you have a disability and require assistance, please contact our ADA coordinator, Mike Gray at 582-3232.