In
November of 2007 the Common Council of Menasha had the vision to
pass a resolution supporting the Eco-Municipality Concept.
As part of this resolution the city created a Sustainability Board
to prepare a suitable community plan following the guidelines of
the
The Natural Step for Eco-Municipalities and to advise the Mayor and Common Council on implementation of sustainable practices.
Resolution Supporting Eco-Municipality Concepts
The Sustainability Board meets the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m., Agendas and Minutes are available on the city website.
Sustainability
Board Members include:
Chris Bohne, Mike Dillon, Roger Kanitz,
Edward Kassel,
Kathy Thunes, Paul
Van de Sand and Chairperson Linda Stoll
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What is sustainability?
According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, sustainable development marries two important themes: that environmental protection does not preclude economic development and that economic development must be ecologically viable now and in the long run. Sustainable development has been defined as "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs." This concept of sustainability encompasses ideas, aspirations and values that continue to inspire public and private organizations to become better stewards of the environment and that promote positive economic growth and social objectives. The principles of sustainability can stimulate technological innovation, advance competitiveness, and improve our quality of life.
What is Menasha Doing?
- Created a Sustainability Board
- Menasha Utilities has numerous conservation programs as well
as being a member of the focus on energy program
- Automated collection of refuse in the community has reduced
energy use by collecting from more stops in less time
- Standard refuse collection levels have encouraged residents
to create less waste
- Established home pick up recycling program
- Street salt use is minimized with liquid applications
- Storm Water Utility to protect our waters is being implemented
- Community has embraced in-fill development, brownfield reclamation,
and adaptive reuse of existing structures
- Education programs in the Menasha School District
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