The Environmental Advisory Board spent most of its June 16 meeting trying to tighten up its mission and figure out how (and through whom) it’s allowed to communicate recommendations to City Council. It also started exploring practical fixes for recycling bin nets and raised concerns about the city using Roundup on sidewalks.
The board revisited its mission/goals and agreed they’re due for an update, including adding a sentence to better define what the board is supposed to do. Members also raised a bigger process issue: whether the board can send recommendations straight to City Council or must go through the Public Works Committee, and they asked for clarification so future communication isn’t muddled or filtered. They identified fluoride in drinking water and Roundup use on sidewalks as issues they may want to take up under the clarified mission.
Page 1 — source unresolved
The board discussed ways to attach recycling bin nets so they don’t get lost, and staff will check with Manitowoc Disposal on whether a workable approach exists. The group noted an estimated cost of about $15 per net and floated a neighborhood pilot program. They also noted the city’s contract with Manitowoc Disposal runs until March 31, 2030, which matters because contract terms can limit how quickly service changes happen.
Page 1 — source unresolved
The board continued planning an educational series and asked for more ideas, with possible topics ranging from bird migration to fish populations and invasive plant species. No decisions were made, but the board signaled it will keep building the list and revisit it next meeting. This is low-cost outreach, but it only matters if the city helps get the information in front of residents who aren’t already plugged in.
Page 1 — source unresolved
Volunteers collected about 400 pounds of debris, mostly from a lot near Rogers Street, including fencing and battery casings. The board noted turnout was low and discussed changes for next year—like avoiding conflicts with graduation, doing more publicity (including Green Bay TV/community calendars), and possibly limiting participation to kayaks or creating a friendly competition between the two rivers. The cleanup results show the problem is real; the turnout suggests the city and partners may need a stronger outreach plan if they want broader community buy-in.
Page 1 — source unresolved
The board questioned whether its “Do You Know” information segment is reaching people and discussed using other channels like Cool City Connect or newsletters (Senior Center, Woodland Dunes). Members also wanted the information kept in a single document with multiple topics, which is a practical step toward consistency. This is a small process tweak, but it’s the difference between environmental messaging being seen—or disappearing into the void.
Page 2 — source unresolved
The board raised concerns that the city is using Roundup for sidewalk weed control, including potential impacts on dogs and people walking them. Members said the city should look for more environmentally sound alternatives. No action was taken in the minutes, but this is the kind of operational practice that can be changed quickly if leadership chooses to prioritize it—and residents will likely have opinions either way.
Page 2 — source unresolved
