03-17-2010 ECC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Luscious Landfill went over well, as did the food vendors. Environmental Administrator Haug commented that commissioners will be needed to help with set up and take down next year. There was not enough help at this venue this year. Project Conserve participants shared their experiences with the public. Chair Zehringer handed out the spreadsheet that he developed for the event of the savings each of 32 participants had. Average electrical and water savings were approximately $160 and $70 respectively. A comment was made that a public service announcement should be done to advertise the savings from the first year. Chair Zehringer stated that the natural gas savings will be added at the end of the heating season. 7. Cap and Trade Presentation -Bruce Savler Commissioner Sayler presented a brief explanation of Cap and Trade, focusing upon the economic impact. He commented that Carbon is one of the hardest emissions to remove from coal burning. If legislation is passed, energy costs could increase by 34% on top of inflation by 2030 and by 49% for commercial. Commissioner Sayler stressed that the impacts of Cap and Trade would not be felt right away due to allowances, but later the impact would be MUCH higher. He added examples of cost increases for commercial buildings like schools, public buildings, manufacturing services, and retail ranging from $15,000 - $269,000 annually. Comments have been made concerning cost differences between U.S. vs. foreign companies due to environmental regulations here (and none outside the U.S.). Commissioner Setala stated that if there is a carbon tax implemented, that will have even more of an impact on prices. Chair Zehringer added that there is a correlation between the cost per ton of carbon dioxide and the price of electricity at home. For every $10/ton of carbon dioxide, one cent per kWh can be added. Discussion followed that funds from a carbon tax might be siphoned off for other uses. Commissioner Sayler stated this has already happened in the northeast U.S. where carbon tax funds have been used for other programs. Commissioner Leonard expressed concern for small businesses that are already close to the breaking point (DQ for example). 8. CBAC Uadate Commissioner Touchette stated there really isn't much to report. The decision is down to two sites now (1 in Elk River and 1 in Ramsey). He added that his concern is that the deciding factor will be dedicated parking ramp space. 9. Water Conservation at the Source - Mavor Klinzing Mayor Klinzing asked that this item be placed on the next month's agenda. She has not been able to make contact with the person as yet. 10.Other 10.1 Bloom Fuel Cell: Chair Zehringer asked that this item be placed on the agenda for next month. 10.2 Bakken Oil Fields: Discussion of the oil fields in Montana and North Dakota. The oil deposits are quite deep under ground so it's expensive to pump, but they have been accessed and are being pumped. Estimated reserves put it close or equal to that of Saudi Arabia.