01-20-2010 ECC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Commissioner Touchette suggested interviewing children to see what they have learned regarding best practices, and could be tied to the Expo. Ms. Haug suggested an "Energy City" special section in the Star News, similar to the "Bridal" special section. 4. 2010 Energv Exao Ms. Haug noted that a $250 donation has been received from Landmark Environmental and $500 from Connexus Energy, as well as personal donations from Mayor Klinzing and Commissioner Touchette. Thirty exhibitors are signed up. She stated that Elk River Ford wilt be displaying a hybrid vehicle. Ms. Haug suggested the Commissioners visit businesses and encourage them to exhibit at the Expo. She noted that there will be no cutoff date to sign up. Ms. Haug stated that the Chamber of Commerce has been offered a free booth as a thank you for advertising the Energy Expo in their newsletter. Discussion followed regarding temporary signage for the expo. Ms. Haug noted that the signs must be placed on an approved surface and do require a sign permit from the city. Ms. Haug briefly reviewed the expo agenda as follows: 11am - 11:10am -Introduction and Project Conserve 11:10am - 12:30pm -Will Steger presentation 1 pm and 2pm - Tricia & the Toonies 11 am - 3 pm -children's activities in the Community Room Ms. Haug provided information regarding the new Energy City Facebook page. This page is intended to educate and market Energy City, as well as serve as a communication center for Project Conserve Participants. Annie Deckert, Economic Development Assistant, stated that the Expo is posted on the City's E.D. (Economic Development) Facebook; updates are made periodically advertising the event as well as soliciting for exhibitors and sponsorships. She noted that they have 80 fans so far. Ms. Decked stated that the quarterly newsletter features Energy City and ways businesses can save dollars on energy. She noted that the newsletter goes out to nearly 600 local and metro businesses, developers and builders. Ms. Deckert explained that the City Economic Development Department utilizes both Facebook and Twitter as part of their marketing initiative. Ms. Haug noted that the EDA has indicated the importance of educating the community on Energy City as one of their goals for 2010. Ms. Deckert noted that a press release will be in the Minnesota Real Estate Journal regarding the Expo. She explained that when businesses sign up to be an exhibitor for the event, a press release is sent to local media in the City they're located in. Commissioner Touchette suggested that the hybrid car could be displayed on the sidewalk, if it is not possible to get it inside the building. Commissioner Klinzing asked if Mr. Steger would be signing books. Ms. Haug noted yes, and that his table will be placed so that visitors will walk through all the exhibits to reach him. 5. MN Office of Energv Security Energv Conservation Block Grant Update Ms. Haug provided information on the $50,000 block grant for energy audits. She explained they are looking at training the city's building inspectors and ERMU employees to conduct the energy audits. Chair Zehringer explained that ERMU has budgeted $25,000 which would be spread over 500 households. Ms. Haug explained that a match is not needed for this type of grant, and they would be looking at providing $50,000 in in-kind services. 2