02-21-2007 ECC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Energy City Commission Minutes Page 3 February 21,2007 • 5. Federal Trademark Update • Ms.Haug noted that the application for the federal trademark was filed February 15,2007. She stated that processing will take 18—24 months. Ms. Haug stated that it has been suggested that the City should then apply for an international trademark,as well. 6. Other Business MN Great Award Ceremony Ms.Haug stated that Elk River Energy City will be receiving two awards. Commissioners Klinzing and Kampa will attend the ceremony and accept the awards. Commissioner Klinzing Item Commissioner Klinzing stated that she and Commissioner Rohlf were present when Senator?/?Representative Hackbarth's bill to establish Elk River as Energy City was introduced,along with a huge Energy City bill package. She stated that the bill went to local review and there was a debate as to how many cities should be allowed the status of"Energy City". She explained that the designation would be in the same category as the state tree,state flower,etc. Commissioner Rohlf stated that they did not have a chance to explain why the City was making the request, or what efforts the City has made,such as establishing an Energy City Commission,and the dollars that have been spent on Energy City projects. Commissioner Klinzing stated that if Elk River is designated Energy City,the city needs to take responsibility � gY tY ty p ty as the place the state looks to for expanding energy efficiency. Commissioner Connett suggested that the Commission do a"Google"search on energy conservation. From his searches,he has learned that the average household continues to use more and more energy. Also,the state of California has achieved"no growth"in energy use,and that F.lk River as Energy City needs to work on achieving this same result. Mr. Connett stated that Elk River needs to be a leader in renewable energy, and the citizens need to be encouraged to make Elk River a leader in purchasing renewable energy. He stated that the legislature sees being a leader in energy as risky and controversial. Commissioner Klinzing stated that the City Council has discussed at a worksession taking actions to promote energy conservation and renewable energy. Commissioner Rohlf stated that he feels they need to develop a presentation to the legislature,providing the history and accomplishments. Commissioner Klinzing stated that the City Council will discuss this item at their March 12 worksession,and that the Council should be notified if the bill comes up with the legislature before then. She stated she felt it was important to inform then what the City has done and is willing to do to "earn"the Energy City designation. Commissioner Connett stated that he feels everyone is becoming aware of global climate changes,and that cities are taking an interest in energy. He stated he feels the federal government needs to take the lead,but that they are not really doing anything. He stated the Energy Expo is a unique opportunity and he would like • to show what a small city can do.