Item Description:
title
Establish Environmental Advisory Board - Offered by Commissioner Lunde
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WHEREAS:
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WHEREAS, young people are the future guardians of our planet. They will be the ones impacted the most by environmental issues such as climate change, deforestation, and pollution. Engaging youth in the decision-making process allows them to have a voice in shaping policies and initiatives that will affect their own future.
Resolution:
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners hereby establishes the Environmental Advisory Board (EAB) to provide advice and recommendations to the Board on environmental matters affecting the county.
• Appointment of members to the EAB, including representatives from various stakeholder groups, such as environmental organizations, local government agencies, and community groups; and shall have at least 15 members and no more than 23.
• Each county commissioner shall appoint one representative from their district to participate on the EAB. The remain seats shall be filled using the county’s open appointment process.
• Authorization for the EAB to meet regularly and provide recommendations to the Board on environmental issues and policies.
• Direction to the EAB to focus on specific environmental topics, such as climate change, sustainability, and environmental justice; and.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the County Administrator be authorized to provide staff support to the EAB and assist with the coordination of meetings and communications; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the EAB shall have a broad mandate to provide advice and recommendations on environmental matters affecting the county, including:
• Climate change and sustainability initiatives
• Environmental justice and equity issues
• Land use and zoning decisions
• Water and air quality issues
• Waste management and recycling policies
• Parks and open space development; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the EAB shall work closely with county departments and agencies to provide input and recommendations on environmental policies and initiatives; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners hereby establishes a Youth Environmental Advisory Board as a standing advisor to the Environmental Advisory Board with the purpose of including youth in the development and decision making on climate and environmental actions, and this will allow the County to make decisions with the presence of youth at the table. Appointees to the Youth Environmental Advisory Board will be a total of 14 youth, two for each district, for one-year terms; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the plan must allow youth to bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the table. They often have a unique outlook on environmental issues and are more willing to think outside the box when it comes to solutions. By including young people in the discussion, the Environment Committee can benefit from their creativity and enthusiasm; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that having a Youth Advisory Group helps to ensure that the committee remains relevant and connected to the community. Young people are often at the forefront of grassroots movements and activism, and they can provide valuable insights into the concerns and priorities of their peers. By engaging with youth, the committee can better understand and address the needs of the next generation; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, having a Youth Advisory Group for the Environment Committee is crucial for fostering youth engagement, promoting innovation, and staying connected to the community. It is important to involve young people in environmental decision-making processes to create a more sustainable and equitable future for all.
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Background:
recommendation
Recommendation from County Administrator: No Recommendation