05-18-2011 ECC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Page 2 Energy Gty Commission Minutes May 18, 2011 people. Ms. Haug discussed the dates of past expos and commented that a different time of year might help. Commissioner Chuba commented that Senator Klobuchar would be a good choice but noted that politicians (due to their sessions) are notorious for not making their speaking engagements. The question of why people are not coming back was discussed. Commissioner Touchette commented that there is a real need for educational home shows and felt that continuity might be lost if the Commission gives up on the Energy Expo. Ms. Haug commented that the partnership with ECFE (Early Childhood Family Education) and Community Ed was good. She added that the keynote speaker needs to be a big draw and added her concern about losing momentum that has been gained. Councilmember Westgaard added his thoughts that the Expo should be done this year with a survey of everyone. He recommended that the Commission highlight what is new and different to avoid the "been there, done that" thoughts that residents may have. He also questioned whether it might be a good idea to partner with different cities to make it more regional. Commissioner Rohlf commented that Energy City was originally defined as the school district so it has always been regional. Commissioner Setterholm referred to the Energy City Commission's purpose of engaging discussion. MOTION BY COMMISSIONER CHUBA AND SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER TOUCHETTE TO CONTINUE THE ENERGY EXPO. ALL IN FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED. Chair Zehringer took a moment to check on the speaker from Xcel Energy. He noted that there was a time mix up according to Pat Thompson. Mr. Thompson lined up Terry Pickens to speak to the commission and Mr. Pickens went to the Energy City website to see when the meetings are held. The time change has not been noted yet on the website. Mr. Pickens will attend the next meeting. Those building inspectors and ERMU energy auditors in attendance left the meeting at this time. 6. Phase II & Phase III Proiect Conserve The staff update memo put together by Ross was referenced for information regarding Phase II and III of Project Conserve. Chair Zehringer and Ms. Deckert will be meeting with apartment building owners tomorrow to discuss the program. In reaching out the commercial sector, the idea is to officially add what Mr. Zehringer does regarding his consulting work for Elk River Municipal Utilities. Ms. Haug commented that additional training is being considered for the energy auditors. They are all excited to learn more. Commissioner Chuba questioned how the Utilities makes money when they are encouraging reduction and conservation. Chair Zehringer discussed the CIP (Conservation Improvement Program) and supply versus demand theories. He noted that LP companies do not have to meet the conservation goals established for other state energy utilities. Commissioner Setterholm noted that most programs come out of California and discussed calculations. The goal is really to have residents use energy more efficiently.