Committee and Community Meeting Minutes/Notes
FE CARE Healthy Community Initiative
Committee Meeting Notes: January 8, 2009
Attendees: Denise Mayer, Melanie Chapman, Matt Brown, Andy Barber, Darlene DeVoe and Chloe Metz (via conference call)
Topics of discussion:
-Upcoming Public Information Night scheduled for 1/29 at 6:30pm in the Music room at the Fort Edward High School.
-Community Identified Issues that will be presented at this meeting are: Household Hazards, Radon, Carbon Monoxide, Carbon Dioxide, Mold and Lead.
-Community Identified Issues that will be presented at the next meeting are: Recycling in the Home, Recycling in the School, Recycling Electronics, Senior Citizens needs and risks, and elements of Smart Growth.
-Introduced the PACE-EH format structure that will be used at the information night to help present each topic in the same manner that will then provide the Public a chance to question or comment on each topic before expressing which one concerns them most.
-Presenting is: Matt on Radon, Melanie on Household Hazards, Denise on Carbon Monoxide and Dioxide, Darlene on Lead, and possibly Carrie on Mold.
-Darlene will contact Jodi Suprenant, the High School Science teacher to see if her students would like present the Recycling topics at the next Information night.
-If there is time at the end of the meeting, we will ask for ideas about scaling down the Smart Growth topic into a more “doable” size by identifying one aspect to focus on for the next meeting.
-Matt and Chloe will gather give away items for attendees.
-Darlene will begin promotion of the Information Night.
The next committee meeting will be held on Feb 5th to follow up on the public meeting and to plan for the next one.
FE CARE Healthy Community Initiative
Community Meeting Notes - October 7, 2008
Recycling
- Identified existing programs: Village and County (Town)
-It was noted although the Village cut curbside pickup to one day a month, the new transfer station is being used heavily and MORE recycling is being done
- Residents need access to more information to improve efforts and change behaviors
- Possible communication methods: mailings, advertisements or website
- Village program not as comprehensive as County (Town) program, but it is FREE (county charges for the extra services the village does not provide)
- There seems to be few visible “recyclable bins” in businesses, schools, offices, etc.
- On street recycling bins may be helpful
- Suggested public posting of recycling dates, schedules, criteria, maps/directions to sites would be helpful...those are to be determined
- If clear directions were provided, the feeling was community efforts would continue to improve
- At this time the school does not have a formal recycling program in place
- Now that new superintendent is in place, the school may be a valuable communication tool (students to parents)
- Superintendent, school board, teachers, students, custodial staff, etc. should have input
- As school curriculum is mandated, it would be difficult to integrate specific “course material”
- Suggested starting with Pre-K, kindergarten students, over time, these would become behaviors
- Student assembly presentation (driven by student efforts) might work
- Batteries mentioned as a specific item
- Electronic recycling awareness seems to be most recognizable topic
- Elot Recycling works with Washington County: There is a charge for these items
- A comment regarding a student run collection possibly generating money was offered, but in a smaller school district it may not be feasible
- Large appliances are difficult to get to recycling sites (NOTE: county does accept appliances for a fee)...
- Hazardous Waste: Discussed at committee level (county), but due to cost issue tabled
- Paint seems the most prevalent item: Some research needs to be done to find out if there is a local resource that collects and distributes unused paint (ie. habitat for humanity)
- At county level, paints are to be dried into solids then disposed of (ie. use cat litter)
Smart Growth
- Balance needed for housing development, commercial development and light industrial development
- In response to a comment about the Village and Town being wasteful, areas where they share services were explained to attendees they were not aware of
- Population bases draw businesses (ie. supermarket)…businesses will draw people (non-resident)
- Development south of us, coming north will keep issue of development on the table
- Natural resources cited as strong points (river, birding area, passive recreational areas, walking, hiking, bike riding) that could serve as a catalyst for eco-tourism
- Agriculture continues to evolve: horse farms becoming more prevalent, dairy subsiding each year
- Having business and industrial development fit the community is the ideal (ie. walk to work, etc.), but it may not be realistic
- Taxes are a burden…housing is needed…sales tax revenue needed
- Zoning to protect natural resources and “what is here” necessary
- Traffic considerations: public transportation will need to evolve to fit growth needs (ie. bus, train)
- Mass transit can support high-density housing and business centers
- Passive transportation: biking/walking desired & would be encouraged, but they have limitations, too
COMMUNICATION and EDUCATION remain the challenges in the community. It was noted the community, if properly educated, would make efforts to help Fort Edward be a healthier place to live.
FE CARE Healthy Community Initiative
Community Meeting Minutes
July 10, 2008 ~ 600pm – 800pm
Fort Edward Fire Department Banquet Hall
Attendees:
Residents: Shannon Mitchell, Dawn Collins, Jody Suprenant, Cathy Kegan, D. Mark Monroe, Lester Losaw, Paula Husson, Bonnie Hazelton, Susan Havens, Tom Reifenheiser, Jim and Melinda Durller, Robin Amell
Organizations: Vince Palacino, Executive Director, Senior Center of Fort Edward and Hudson Falls
Committee: Denise Mayer, Dari Norman, Darlene Devoe, Chitra Kumar, Andy Barber, Peter Smith
Peter welcomed attendees and reviewed the areas that would not be open for discussion during this meeting (the River Project and TCE). He offered to speak with anyone after the meeting regarding where to address any issues on each of those topics.
He also provided some background information on what CARE is and said it was a voluntary process that people move in and out of as it suits their interest. He stressed the importance of having all sectors of the community represented (residents, businesses, organizations, elected officials as well as related agencies).
He then address the purpose of the meeting:
a) address wide range of issues (post card mailer was used as an example for discussion topics)
c) after this meeting (and others as necessary) issues identified will be analyzed and ranked
d) an action plan will be formulated to address the issues
e) apply for level 2 grant and secure funding to carry out the action plan
Basic rules for the meeting:
a) no comment is wrong…everyone’s opinion matters
b) all opinions offered are personal, they do not represent policy, administration or organization
c) all contact info is personal…no phone numbers, addresses, email, etc. are provided to anyone to use for any purpose
Andy Barber the facilitator was introduced. He provided a brief summary of his expertise and background.
Andy brought resident/microbiologist and committee member, Denise Mayer to the front of the room, who related her interest in hearing and addressing issues of concern, commenting she looked forward to applying her science background to the process. Then the open discussion period commenced.
Vince (Executive Director of the Senior Center of Fort Edward & Hudson Falls) addressed the fact that we have a rapidly aging population (most involved with the Senior Center are late 70’s and up) living on fixed incomes. They face ongoing problems with access to healthcare, reliable transportation to get prescriptions, get to Dr. appointments, etc. (c) nutritional challenges are evident (d) medicare doesn’t cover vision or hearing aids, etc. He felt county level marketing of services is needed as many seem unaware of what is available.
Robin, a lifetime resident expressed concern that “tweens”, too old for sitters, are still in need of adult supervision. She felt other activities were needed outside the summer recreation program. She also addressed a concern that there may be a lack of healthy meals and snacks normally provided during the school year for those from low-income family situations. She also addressed the number of homes popping up for sale, few restaurants remain, and retail stores are almost non-existent. She brought up the need for a youth/recreation center.
Dave (small business owner) addressed the challenges of being a new small business in a small community. He felt that existing rules (zoning related) created burdens and prohibited new businesses and offered his opinion, they might not be applied equally to all.
Shannon addressed her startup business (salon) from last year, mentioning her initial capital investment, improving the building, which has helped improve the image downtown, and her feeling she could have been welcomed better. She also mentioned she had hopes of being involved with the school to offer haircuts and provide counseling on personal hygiene to students from low-income families, the need for educational programs (such as HIV/Aids awareness, smoking, drug and alcohol abuse), and mentioned the DARE program was no longer in existence locally.
Vince mentioned something done via a United Way program he was involved with in Connecticut where children at or below the poverty line were provided (through volunteers and donations) with backpacks stocked with school supplies and information on available services, etc.
Jodi (science department) @ FE School) said they did something similar last year, but it may not have addressed students in junior or senior high. She also referenced the fact the school does indeed encourage and promote student volunteerism, which prompted agreement from those present that they may well match up well with senior citizens, and would be well suited to tutoring younger students. It was suggested a student who isn’t at the top of their class could still provide valuable assistance and guidance to younger students, as it may actually serve as a motivator for them to improve their class work efforts.
Robin mentioned the need for a community center where there could be services and activities, and a safe, secure, fun place for youths to hang out in the Village. She mentioned they move about in groups via bicycle in the summer, when there aren’t programs like Saturday Night Out through the LIFE Committee). Most agreed it would be great to have senior services and children services in the same building as the village and town hall and they may do well interacting with each other.
Vince suggested the Glens Falls Youth Center as a model for something similar here.
The availability of the St. Josephs School building came up. The Village and Town are considering acquiring the building, but it requires renovation and rehabilitation. Asbestos has been removed. Vince asked about lead paint and another mentioned energy efficiency (weatherization, solar energy, etc.). Another resident voiced the opinion that if a Montessori School had been there in recent years, then the building must have been clean. It was noted there is an offer for the building to house a residential and outpatient drug/alcohol rehab center that will go before the zoning board of appeals on Tuesday July 15th and it is the time for people in the community to voice their opinions.
Vince mentioned he has significant non-government grant writing experience and when asked, said he would be willing to sit on a committee to help the community in that regard.
Parking was raised as an issue being a challenge for downtown businesses. Information was shared regarding existing parking areas, which may not be as visible as they are just off main street (Broadway). A suggestion was made regarding posting signs in the village directing people to existing municipal parking areas. It was explained it has been under consideration, but the process has been slow in evolving into action.
Site plan review came under fire, being cited as red tape, bureaucracy and a burden that drives businesses away. It was acknowledged that in the early stages (as we are), there would be challenges. Some areas have residential and business properties mixed in and it may be an inconvenience for a homeowner to fall under the same scrutiny as a business, yet it is that same rule that protects homeowners from businesses doing what they want to...it is meant to help business blend in.
Jodi raised the issue of a study regarding children with ADHD and childhood development issues in the Hudson River corridor. She recalled statistics being higher than normal and there are steps people can take to help children. She mentioned a need for education and awareness and asked if people would want to hear from researchers in that area.
Several attendees referenced this back to possibly linking children with challenges like this with senior citizens at a community center.
The issue of absentee landlords and issues like trash and junk being left visible were echoed by several attendees. Peter noted the Village and Town have agreed to hire a Code Enforcement Officer who will address issues like these and it will begin to show improvement over time.
Tom (landlord) complained about tenants and the difficulty of holding them responsible for what they do to apartments and what they leave behind in damages and trash and suggested local government could help do more to help protect landlords.
Andy mentioned those were contractual issues generally addressed by leases.
It was offered that the Police Department currently helps with tenant issues, but it was important landlords do background, credit and reference checks and it may help to offer assistance to landlords who need help writing good enforceable leases.
Jim brought up offering programs for youth in the area of conservancy, nature and passive recreation. He suggested a need for multiuse trails for walking and horse (non-motorized), and areas for birding. He felt having youth working on such things would help them develop a solid work ethic and break a cycle of entitlement and inactivity. He thought it may create a summer job market for kids in school.
Jodi raised the issue of recycling both in the school and in the community. Sue mentioned Schenectady Boys and Girls Clubs a have children picking up recyclables. It was asked if grants were available for solid waste reduction and it was mentioned this is part of the CARE process. If this is an issue that is identified, ranked and prioritized, we may well pursue it. Peter offered to follow-up with Jodi at the school level to discuss what they had in mind there.
Darlene mentioned the Village was about to announce it’s revamped recycling program, with a centralized recycling center located behind the Village/Town Hall near the Village Barn that would be open Monday-Friday during the day and Saturday during the morning only. Curbside pickup is being reduced to one day a month and that manpower is being redirected to work on Village initiatives like the sidewalk program.
Lester raised the issue of household hazardous waste. E-waste and HHW pickup was acknowledged as a challenge due to the toxic nature of these products and the expense of handling them. It was further acknowledged that even if an annual day is offered there are issues of coordination, traffic and cost.
It was noted in recent months eLot recycling had stepped in to work with the community but before a program could be put into place, new fees were introduced to negotiations (due to rising fuel costs) and they were not budgeted for. At this point, electronic recyclables are handled at the county level (at a cost?). Chitra mentioned computer companies like DELL or other businesses may have programs or grants to help recycle products they sell.
Peter asked the attendees if there might be community interest in replacing certain household products with more environmentally friendly products in local retail stores. Peter mentioned earlier meetings with the Chamber addressed it, and it may make sense to revisit the issue.
Peter then mentioned through an anonymous written request through the CARE website, a tenant shared thoughts on poor living conditions in an apartment in the Village, where the presence of mold was causing health problems. Peter said he did follow up over a four-day period via email, but the person insisted on remaining unidentified, so he has nothing to substantiate the claims. It was mentioned people don’t fully understand the danger of mold, and it may well be present in older homes for a variety of reasons yet, newer homes can’t be ruled out either.
The meeting closed at 800pm.
FE CARE Healthy Community Initiative
Community Meeting Minutes
July 10, 2008 ~ 600pm – 800pm
Fort Edward Fire Department Banquet Hall
Attendees:
Residents: Shannon Mitchell, Dawn Collins, Jody Suprenant, Cathy Kegan, D. Mark Monroe, Lester Losaw, Paula Husson, Bonnie Hazelton, Susan Havens, Tom Reifenheiser, Jim and Melinda Durller, Robin Amell
Organizations: Vince Palacino, Executive Director, Senior Center of Fort Edward and Hudson Falls
Committee: Denise Mayer, Dari Norman, Darlene Devoe, Chitra Kumar, Andy Barber, Peter Smith
Peter welcomed attendees and reviewed the areas that would not be open for discussion during this meeting (the River Project and TCE). He offered to speak with anyone after the meeting regarding where to address any issues on each of those topics.
He also provided some background information on what CARE is and said it was a voluntary process that people move in and out of as it suits their interest. He stressed the importance of having all sectors of the community represented (residents, businesses, organizations, elected officials as well as related agencies).
He then address the purpose of the meeting:
a) address wide range of issues (post card mailer was used as an example for discussion topics)
c) after this meeting (and others as necessary) issues identified will be analyzed and ranked
d) an action plan will be formulated to address the issues
e) apply for level 2 grant and secure funding to carry out the action plan
Basic rules for the meeting:
a) no comment is wrong…everyone’s opinion matters
b) all opinions offered are personal, they do not represent policy, administration or organization
c) all contact info is personal…no phone numbers, addresses, email, etc. are provided to anyone to use for any purpose
Andy Barber the facilitator was introduced. He provided a brief summary of his expertise and background.
Andy brought resident/microbiologist and committee member, Denise Mayer to the front of the room, who related her interest in hearing and addressing issues of concern, commenting she looked forward to applying her science background to the process. Then the open discussion period commenced.
Vince (Executive Director of the Senior Center of Fort Edward & Hudson Falls) addressed the fact that we have a rapidly aging population (most involved with the Senior Center are late 70’s and up) living on fixed incomes. They face ongoing problems with access to healthcare, reliable transportation to get prescriptions, get to Dr. appointments, etc. (c) nutritional challenges are evident (d) medicare doesn’t cover vision or hearing aids, etc. He felt county level marketing of services is needed as many seem unaware of what is available.
Robin, a lifetime resident expressed concern that “tweens”, too old for sitters, are still in need of adult supervision. She felt other activities were needed outside the summer recreation program. She also addressed a concern that there may be a lack of healthy meals and snacks normally provided during the school year for those from low-income family situations. She also addressed the number of homes popping up for sale, few restaurants remain, and retail stores are almost non-existent. She brought up the need for a youth/recreation center.
Dave (small business owner) addressed the challenges of being a new small business in a small community. He felt that existing rules (zoning related) created burdens and prohibited new businesses and offered his opinion, they might not be applied equally to all.
Shannon addressed her startup business (salon) from last year, mentioning her initial capital investment, improving the building, which has helped improve the image downtown, and her feeling she could have been welcomed better. She also mentioned she had hopes of being involved with the school to offer haircuts and provide counseling on personal hygiene to students from low-income families, the need for educational programs (such as HIV/Aids awareness, smoking, drug and alcohol abuse), and mentioned the DARE program was no longer in existence locally.
Vince mentioned something done via a United Way program he was involved with in Connecticut where children at or below the poverty line were provided (through volunteers and donations) with backpacks stocked with school supplies and information on available services, etc.
Jodi (science department) @ FE School) said they did something similar last year, but it may not have addressed students in junior or senior high. She also referenced the fact the school does indeed encourage and promote student volunteerism, which prompted agreement from those present that they may well match up well with senior citizens, and would be well suited to tutoring younger students. It was suggested a student who isn’t at the top of their class could still provide valuable assistance and guidance to younger students, as it may actually serve as a motivator for them to improve their class work efforts.
Robin mentioned the need for a community center where there could be services and activities, and a safe, secure, fun place for youths to hang out in the Village. She mentioned they move about in groups via bicycle in the summer, when there aren’t programs like Saturday Night Out through the LIFE Committee). Most agreed it would be great to have senior services and children services in the same building as the village and town hall and they may do well interacting with each other.
Vince suggested the Glens Falls Youth Center as a model for something similar here.
The availability of the St. Josephs School building came up. The Village and Town are considering acquiring the building, but it requires renovation and rehabilitation. Asbestos has been removed. Vince asked about lead paint and another mentioned energy efficiency (weatherization, solar energy, etc.). Another resident voiced the opinion that if a Montessori School had been there in recent years, then the building must have been clean. It was noted there is an offer for the building to house a residential and outpatient drug/alcohol rehab center that will go before the zoning board of appeals on Tuesday July 15th and it is the time for people in the community to voice their opinions.
Vince mentioned he has significant non-government grant writing experience and when asked, said he would be willing to sit on a committee to help the community in that regard.
Parking was raised as an issue being a challenge for downtown businesses. Information was shared regarding existing parking areas, which may not be as visible as they are just off main street (Broadway). A suggestion was made regarding posting signs in the village directing people to existing municipal parking areas. It was explained it has been under consideration, but the process has been slow in evolving into action.
Site plan review came under fire, being cited as red tape, bureaucracy and a burden that drives businesses away. It was acknowledged that in the early stages (as we are), there would be challenges. Some areas have residential and business properties mixed in and it may be an inconvenience for a homeowner to fall under the same scrutiny as a business, yet it is that same rule that protects homeowners from businesses doing what they want to...it is meant to help business blend in.
Jodi raised the issue of a study regarding children with ADHD and childhood development issues in the Hudson River corridor. She recalled statistics being higher than normal and there are steps people can take to help children. She mentioned a need for education and awareness and asked if people would want to hear from researchers in that area.
Several attendees referenced this back to possibly linking children with challenges like this with senior citizens at a community center.
The issue of absentee landlords and issues like trash and junk being left visible were echoed by several attendees. Peter noted the Village and Town have agreed to hire a Code Enforcement Officer who will address issues like these and it will begin to show improvement over time.
Tom (landlord) complained about tenants and the difficulty of holding them responsible for what they do to apartments and what they leave behind in damages and trash and suggested local government could help do more to help protect landlords.
Andy mentioned those were contractual issues generally addressed by leases.
It was offered that the Police Department currently helps with tenant issues, but it was important landlords do background, credit and reference checks and it may help to offer assistance to landlords who need help writing good enforceable leases.
Jim brought up offering programs for youth in the area of conservancy, nature and passive recreation. He suggested a need for multiuse trails for walking and horse (non-motorized), and areas for birding. He felt having youth working on such things would help them develop a solid work ethic and break a cycle of entitlement and inactivity. He thought it may create a summer job market for kids in school.
Jodi raised the issue of recycling both in the school and in the community. Sue mentioned Schenectady Boys and Girls Clubs a have children picking up recyclables. It was asked if grants were available for solid waste reduction and it was mentioned this is part of the CARE process. If this is an issue that is identified, ranked and prioritized, we may well pursue it. Peter offered to follow-up with Jodi at the school level to discuss what they had in mind there.
Darlene mentioned the Village was about to announce it’s revamped recycling program, with a centralized recycling center located behind the Village/Town Hall near the Village Barn that would be open Monday-Friday during the day and Saturday during the morning only. Curbside pickup is being reduced to one day a month and that manpower is being redirected to work on Village initiatives like the sidewalk program.
Lester raised the issue of household hazardous waste. E-waste and HHW pickup was acknowledged as a challenge due to the toxic nature of these products and the expense of handling them. It was further acknowledged that even if an annual day is offered there are issues of coordination, traffic and cost.
It was noted in recent months eLot recycling had stepped in to work with the community but before a program could be put into place, new fees were introduced to negotiations (due to rising fuel costs) and they were not budgeted for. At this point, electronic recyclables are handled at the county level (at a cost?). Chitra mentioned computer companies like DELL or other businesses may have programs or grants to help recycle products they sell.
Peter asked the attendees if there might be community interest in replacing certain household products with more environmentally friendly products in local retail stores. Peter mentioned earlier meetings with the Chamber addressed it, and it may make sense to revisit the issue.
Peter then mentioned through an anonymous written request through the CARE website, a tenant shared thoughts on poor living conditions in an apartment in the Village, where the presence of mold was causing health problems. Peter said he did follow up over a four-day period via email, but the person insisted on remaining unidentified, so he has nothing to substantiate the claims. It was mentioned people don’t fully understand the danger of mold, and it may well be present in older homes for a variety of reasons yet, newer homes can’t be ruled out either.
The meeting closed at 800pm.
May 27, 2008
Rogers Island Visitor Center
610pm - 730pm
Attendees:
Dari Norman (ACC), Rich Norman (GF National Bank/Arrow Trust), Darlene Devoe (Chamber), Steve Davis (resident), Chitra Kumar (EPA), Peter Smith (CARE Coordinator).
Peter welcomed everyone and asked for consent approval of April Meeting minutes, which were approved as written/posted on the website.
Chitra provided background info the CLT (Community Leadership Training) initiative where the EPA contracts with a facilitator to help a community organization organize and plan ahead. Of the options discussed, the group felt we needed to work with someone more local as opposed to CBI, due to their involvement with the CAG, related to the river project. Peter is to explore and discuss some options and get them to Chitra for review and approval.
The next discussion involved getting the word out for the June Community Meeting. A variety of locations were discussed and it was decided the Fire Department Banquet Hall was the best place. Peter is to make arrangments with them.
The discussion continued addressing how we get the word out for the community meeting, tentatively scheduled for the last week in June. It is an extremely busy community week. Peter advised using community groups to communicate through their constituencies was not a viable option. Darlene offered to help via the Chamber of Commerce and suggested Peter check with the Village/Town/County for mailing lists as a post card option seemed a good way to touch more people. Peter is also to explore print ad options, working with the local churches and other options like FATE (Family And Teachers for Education).
It was agreed seeing we had areas we could NOT discuss or address at these meetings, we are best framing up some general areas of discussion to give people a better idea of the types of things we could address. Included in the gneral topic areas could be housing (radon lead paint, asbestos, weatherization), recycling and household hazardous waste, school best practices (chemical, pests, aging building issues like lead paint, etc.), healthier community issues (childhood obesity, ashtma, cancer, human hygiene), planting of trees, etc.
As half of those present had other meetings to attend it was agreed to wrap up the meeting. Peter is to get back to everyone on the items noted above that needed exploring and clarification.
April 22, 2008
Rogers Island Visitor Center
610pm – 815pm
Attendees:
Denise Mayer, Resident
Steve Davis, Resident
Aaron Frankenfeld, Adirondack/Glens Falls Transportation Council
Matt Brown, Washington County Public Health
Dari Norman, ACC
Rich Norman, GF National (Arrow) Bank
Darlene Devoe, Village of Fort Edward
Chitra Kumar, EPA/CARE Project Officer
Peter Smith, CARE Community Coordinator
In honor of Earth Day, the CARE meeting included two guest speakers who shared opportunities for area residents to participate in local environmental initiatives.
Peter Smith, CARE Community Coordinator, welcomed everyone and introduced the speakers, Aaron Frankenfeld and Matt Brown.
Aaron Frankefeld opened the meeting reviewing the A/GFTC “Choose Not To Drive Alone” initiative in conjunction with Earth Day 2008. The program runs April 21-27 and is intended to encourage people in the surrounding communities to walk, bicycle, carpool or use public transportation where possible. He briefly outlined participation guidelines. Benefits cited were: Reduced traffic congestion and pollution, related health benefits of exercise, burning calories and reduced stress levels related to driving, raising awareness and social consciousness from participating and supporting local initiatives, as well as the benefits of being resourceful by saving money and cutting fuel consumption. He cited Glens Falls Hospital as an example of an employer group supporting the initiative, encouraging their staff to participate. Statistics will be gathered after participants report back (deadline May 2). There will be a tally of the beneficial environmental impacts resulting from the community wide effort.
Aaron was asked about the Ride Share program. He shared the basics of the service and a link for more information: http://www.agftc.org/ridesharing.asp.
Denise Mayer commented on motor-assist bicycles. She commutes 25 miles one way to Cambridge from Fort Edward and was about to purchase one (citing the savings on fuel, money and the environment), but found they were illegal to operate on roadways. Aaron offered to do some research on the issue and report back.
Aaron also discussed efforts to overcome the stigma of using public transportation. Matt Brown and Steve Davis related this in some part to the advent of urban sprawl and symbolism of the freedom to travel via individual automobile ownership. Steve also cited how this was linked to the erosion of downtowns in local communities.
Matt made an inquiry into continuing and sustaining the Choose Not to Drive Alone program as a worksite wellness initiative at the county level.
Steve mentioned his concern with riding bicycles on Burgoyne Avenue due to the narrow shoulders. Aaron mentioned it was a truck route and NY State mandates call for wider driving lanes, which narrow the shoulders. Unless all property owners along the route agreed to it, the shoulders cannot be uniformly widened.
Aaron also mentioned the Regional Access Management Guidebook for communities to uniformly address transportation issues…more information will be forthcoming.
Peter was asked to provide contact information for each person at the meeting so individual issues can be addressed directly and offered to provide links to the A/GFTC website and related programs from the CARE website to help inform the community of Fort Edward about A/GFTC services.
Aaron then excused himself from the meeting.
Matt Brown addressed the Home Radon Testing Program Grant. It is a 3-year project encouraging homeowners to have their homes tested for radon exposure. He cited the relationship between radon and the incidence of lung cancer. Matt mentioned the county had higher than normal percentages of lung cancer, which may be in part due to cigarette smoking, which becomes an even greater cancer risk if a smoker has unacceptable levels of radon. The kits are available far below retail cost, or at no cost to those in low-income situations. Costs related to shipping/mailing are paid for by the grant. Homeowners would be responsible for any mitigation measures. The county provides information on reliable suppliers who provide such services. Partnering agencies included Economic Opportunity Council, Public Health and Cornell Cooperative Extension to assure the program reaches a broad audience. Town Hall meetings have been done in phases starting with the higher risk geographic areas. He did mention Fort Edward was among the lowest risk areas but stated no assumptions should be made. He did say the response to the program has been far above expectations so far which they have found encouraging. In the near future more information on the program will be offered on the Washington County Public Health website. That will also be linked from the CARE website.
Richard Norman asked if multiple levels of testing are necessary (ie basement, first floor, second floor) in multi-level homes. Matt mentioned the focus is n the basement (especially if it is used as a family room or work room), and the primary living level (first floor). Richard asked if there was historical information in regard to generations of families living in a home with radon exposure, yet they may have no incidences of cancer. No information was available at this point and there are no assurances such information exists.
Matt mentioned older homes tend to be a bit more ventilated and drafty and that in general dissipates radon, and conversely newer homes tend to be sealed quite well, so the risk can be greater. He also cited this assessment is now often part of the mortgage process. Matt also mentioned often mitigation measures can be ass simple as ventilating a home each spring, but mentioned again no assumptions should be made…that direction should come from professionals.
Steve Davis brought up the fact his family had participated in a radon program a few years back but the testing kit had been lost along the way. His frustration was acknowledged, and it was suggested this program should be judged on its own merit, separately from programs years back.
Darlene Devoe asked Matt if information could be provided for the Village (in addition to the Town) as they have similar Home Grant programs and part of the process is weatherization (which may make the homes more susceptible). She felt the information would be helpful to property owners and contractors. Matt agreed to help with such information. Peter offered to act as a contact point for Matt.
Denise asked if data would be available relating the radon levels of a particular home, and the occupant’s health situation. While it was generally agreed such information would certainly quantify the correlation, it was also cited as an issue of privacy from a health perspective.
Matt then excused himself from the meeting, as did Steve Davis.
Because of active participation and questions from meeting attendees, the remaining CARE Steering Committee discussion was brief.
Chitra Kumar was formally introduced as the interim CARE Project Manager as Chloe Metz is officially on maternity leave. Chitra shared some background information on her life and career and was welcomed by all.
Peter quickly reviewed the new CARE website URL: www.fortedwardcare.weebly.com .
He said the first four days of the site being announced only to the current email list resulted in the site being visited an average of 20 times daily. As of the 22nd there were 14 published and 2 unpublished pages with information. He expects the site to be critical to keeping the process transparent and interactive citing there was both a private and public (blog) element for people to ask for information or comment.
Peter also mentioned some in-roads were being made into bringing more people on board from the community (mentioning four people have agreed to serve on the FE CARE Steering Committee), some formal partnering organizations and in having the services of a technical advisor who may serve as a facilitator in certain situations. He expected all of those to be in place and publicized by the next meeting.
Consent Agenda Review:
Peter asked meeting members to respond to him directly within a week with any comments on the four consent items. There was a general feeling that these were fine since they were discussed in previous meetings.
Starting to List Community Concerns:
Throughout the meeting community concerns about environment and health were raised. What was captured and recorded below is the beginning of the CARE process of identifying concerns.
v Peter related that Steve Davis’ main concern and passion was light pollution.
v The Village Water Operator who was unable to attend had asked Peter to relate his concern with health and safety at the reservoir as the condition of the protective fence had deteriorated significantly and the community lacked funds to repair it.
v A participant mentioned the deteriorating sidewalks as a deterrent to children walking to school during the transportation alternatives discussion with Aaron Frankenfeld.
v Town of Fort Edward is a major transportation route and thoroughfare for truck and car traffic (Broadway/State Route 4).
v Lead paint and an aging, deteriorating housing stock we cited as concerns, too
Peter mentioned he was in the process of outlining the next Quarterly Report due May 20, 2008.
There was a brief discussion on the upcoming May meeting and the need to have it be open to the public so they may begin the process of voicing their concerns. The general feeling was this process needed to begin before the July-August vacation season when residents become unavailable. There were no objections to keeping the 4th Tuesday (May 27, 2008) as the meeting date (it is the day after Memorial Day).
MARCH 25, 2008 - Rogers Island Visitor Center - 600pm-715pm
Attendance:
Residents: Denise Mayer; Julia Wilson
Village: Mayor Matt Traver
Chamber of Commerce: Larry Moffitt, President
Academic: Dari Norman, Executive Assistant to Dr. Ronald Heacock, President Adirondack Community College
Guest/Observer: Richard Norman, Trust Unlimited/Arrow Bank
Business: Pete Hansen of ESMI of NY; John Nevin of eLotRecycling
EPA CARE Project Officer/EPA Staff Observer (via speaker phone): Chloe Metz, Chitra Kumar
CARE Community Coordinator: Peter Smith
Discussion and Proceedings:
Welcome and Introductions
What is CARE? (reviewed by community coordinator)
Community Action for a Renewed Environment is a voluntary partnership program that supports community driven strategies to address the exposure to toxics & pollutants and their affect on our “environment” as it relates to human health, and the socio-economic condition of the community. The EPA provides funding, technical assistance and resources. CARE is about awareness, education, empowerment & action.
CARE Roadmap: Steps to a Healthier Community & Environment
(Facilitated discussion with displayed graphic)
Step 1, Organize the Community: why should the community organize itself? A broad partnership that is representative of the entire community will help build consensus and mobilize resources with an eye on creating a sustainable, continuous, resourceful and proactive environmental health assessment team.
Steps 2-6, Gathering Information: What are the benefits of engaging and involving the community when collecting and gathering information? To better understand their concerns about environmental health, incidence of disease, the sources of pollution and where it comes from, hazardous materials and how they may relate to health and conditions in the community (social, economic, etc.)
What might the community’s vulnerabilities BE if their environment isn’t healthy? Pre-existing health conditions may worsen; Youth or Elderly may be more susceptible; Ability to recover may be inhibited by living near sources of pollution; Previous exposure; Economic/socially disadvantaged conditions; Other possible inhibitors or barriers may be linked to poor nutrition, limited access to healthcare, poor housing conditions or unemployment
What is the community’s capacity (ability, willingness, expertise) to undertake this process?
Basic criteria for targeted outreach to encompass: Village/Town; Rural/Downtown; Residential/Commercial; Small Business/Big Business; Elderly/Middle-Age/Youth; Blue Collar/White Collar; Individual interest by virtue of trade or profession, activism or individual concern
Outreach Efforts Targeting Organizations and Agencies by Category: Agricultural, Business, Civic, Cultural, Historic, Social, Economic Development, Academic/Educational, Environmental, Health-related, Religious/Spiritual, Media
Civic Involvement/Assessment: The initial thoughts of individuals in the community relative to the environment and health tend to gravitate to the River Project, areas with TCE contamination, or the Brownfield areas identified in the BOA Grant process and EPA Petroleum Grant Process. Board Members for existing community organizations tend to find the same people actively involved. The challenge has been finding a way to focus the community on the relationship between the condition of the environment and how it relates to human health, as well as social and economic factors.
These steps in the RoadMap are CARE Level II Grant – (reviewed by community coordinator, not discussed)
Analyze the information (Steps 7-8): Rank risks and impacts, identify possible solutions
Mobilize the community and it’s partners (Step 9): Take action by setting priorities for action & work
Evaluate the work of the community (Step 10): Measure progress and address remaining risks
The CARE Team: Project Responsibilities/Roles (review and facilitated discussion):
Environmental Protection Agency - Region 2: Project Grantor and collaborator; Project Officer assigned, provides oversight; Provide technical resources and support; Link to national resources and best management practices
Community Coordinator: Chair Steering Committee; Liaison between EPA, Sub-Committee(s), Partners/Stakeholders; Ensures work plan objectives and goals are accomplished throughout the process; Provides objective, neutral guidance and direction throughout the process; Engages entire community through targeted, defined outreach activity
Steering Committee: Decision-making body of the process; Representative of the interests & concerns of the entire community; Provide key leadership, direction and continuity; Bring information, knowledge and resources; Regularly solicits input from community; Meet fourth Tuesday of every month, from 600pm-730pm
In-Meeting Assistance: Recorder, Note Taker, Time-Keeper
Vice-Chairs (work closely with CARE Coordinator): Seeking two residents with science/environmental and healthcare backgrounds, with one extra duty: a monthly conference call to set agenda, check progress
Community-At-Large: Interest/involvement motivated by professional or personal interest, or community involvement
Technical Advisors: Provide assistance and support in area of expertise: Academic/Educational, Economic Development, Environmental, Health, Social
Facilitator (role to be defined)
Where are we going?
The CARE Team Mission is to establish an environmental health assessment team, representative of the entire community that will:
(a) Effectively explore the relationship between the condition of the environment and human health in the community
(b) Involve and listen to the concerns of the community
(c) Educate and inform the community to create awareness and change behavior
(d) Identify specific resources to address specific issues to improve the condition of the environment and human health
(e) Be sustainable and proactive into the futureItems for Follow-up:
*Provide ACC with information on letter of support in original grant application for their review
*Continue with outreach efforts in community (residents, organizations and agencies)
*Establish a List of Ground Rules for Conduct at Future Meetings
*Outline more specific Goals (the desired outcome) and Objectives (the action required to meet goals) for future meetings
HANDOUTS:CARE Road Map Graphic
NEXT MEETING:
April 22, 2008 ~ 6:00pm - 7:30pm ~ Rogers Island Visitor Center
Agenda: Will distribute via email Wednesday April 9, 2008
FEBRUARY 26, 2008 Meeting CANCELLED DUE TO WINTER STORM
JANUARY 22, 2008 - EPA/Hudson River Field Office - 600pm - 730pm
Attendance:
Residents: Denise Mayer, Dennis Williams, Stephanie Williams
Churches: Pastor Ila Smith, Village Baptist Church
Federal: Lisa Manzi, staff, U.S. Rep. Gillibrand
Town: Councilman Neil Orsini
Village: Mayor Matt Traver
County: Patty Hunt (health)
EPA/HRFO staff: Kris Skopek (community relations)
EPA CARE Project Officer: Chloe Metz
CARE Comunity Coordinator: Peter Smith
Welcome and Introductions
Meeting Minutes from December 18, 2007 were reviewed and accepted as written.
Meeting Minutes for the Future: As time is a consideration, further discussion focused on minutes from meetings being available in advance of the next meeting. Among the suggestions for posting and/or distribution were: (a) by email to attendees who do provide addresses (b) via website with two suggestions being the Town website (soon to be constructed) and the FE Chamber of Commerce (c) where feasible in Town newsletter. In future CARE Coordinator to produce minutes as soon as possible for distribution and review.
The Meeting Calendar for 2008 was discussed and dates were set on the 4th Tuesday of every month as follows: February 26, March 25, April 22, May 27, June 24, July 22, August 26, September 23, October, 28, November 25, December 23. While some of the dates are in close proximity to holidays, the general feeling was publishing a calendar for the year makes it easier for most to schedule and attend. It was suggested the CARE Coordinator provide information on upcoming meetings to The Post Star and The Chronicle, too.
Outreach: Reviewed and discussed ongoing partnership/outreach efforts in the community from a list provided by CARE Coordinator. General feeling was while a fairly wide net had been cast, and those contacted have verbally supported the spirit of the project, the lack of interest in participation is due in part to the project being in the early stages of organizing/planning and the lack of clarity about the project’s goals and direction.
Additional Outreach: Further discussions related to reaching out to involve those less fortunate (the disadvantaged or under-privileged, those who have existing health concerns related to their environment), those in healthcare (Glens Falls Hospital, Hudson Headwaters Health Network), those in education (ie. local high schools, Adirondack Community College and BOCES), and those in related businesses (ie. ESMI, Waste Management).
Planning Committee: Brief discussion involved getting commitments from people to be part of a planning committee to help CARE Coordinator set agendas for future meetings, assist with outreach (acting as a center of influence to help open a door or to get a commitment) and to assist during meetings (recorder, note taker, time-keeper, technical expertise, etc.).
Handouts: Two newspaper articles were handed out and briefly discussed, (a) Car Pool Initiative announced by the Adirondack/Glens Falls Transportation Council, as two of the locations are in Fort Edward, (b) Washington County Department of Health Radon Awareness Campaign to encourage awareness and testing for radon. Also, the Washington County Department of Health provided CARE Coordinator with a 95-page regional health assessment to review that identifies and prioritizes health issues in a five county area.
Next meeting: February. 26, 2008, 600pm - 730pm @ the Rogers Island Visitor Center Conference Room.
DECEMBER 18, 2008 - EPA/Hudson RIver Field Office - 600pm - 730pm
Attendance:
Residents: Jim Durller, Julia Wilson
Federal: Lisa Manzi, staff, U.S. Rep. Gillibrand
Town: Merrilyn Pulver (06-07), Tim Fisher and Terry Middleton (08-09)
Village: Matt Traver (Mayor), Darlene DeVoe (Trustee)
County: Bill Cook (safety), Patty Hunt (health)
Guests/Observers: Peter Glassman, Executive Director, Mediation Matters (dispute resolution professional)
EPA/HRFO staff: Kristen Skopek (community relations), Danielle Adams (administrative)
EPA CARE Project Officer: Chloe Metz
CARE Community Coordinator: Peter Smith
Introductions and Review of Meeting Agenda
Purpose, Process & Goals of CARE: The LEVEL 1 Grant ($90,000) is an EPA sponsored, competitive grant program that offers an innovative way for communities to take action to reduce toxic pollution in homes, businesses and the environment that have an affect on the health, environment and socio-economic condition of the community. It was noted that the grant is designed to target things we can address “now” (short term, immediate future), as opposed to speculating what may/may not happen and what we may/may not be doing.
The CARE Process is a four-step process with Level 1 Projects addressing Steps 1 and 2 primarily. (Step 1 - Join Together) establishes a stakeholder group through “partnerships” in the community with non-profits, churches, schools, businesses, residents, as well as local, state and federal agencies; (Step 2 - Identify Problems and Solutions) The stakeholder group assesses toxic problems in the community and considers options for risk reduction; (Step 3 - Implement Solutions/Reduce Risks) The stakeholder group ID’s the combination of programs that best meet the community’s needs; (Step 4 - Become Self Sustaining) The partnership becomes self sustaining by developing new ways to attract funding and partnerships, to address new problems and identify new solutions.
What the CARE Project Is Not: CARE Coordinator addressed the fact this project is detached and separate from The Hudson River Dredging Project, as well as the existing Brownfield grant programs (BOA and EPA Petroleum) or any other established grant program addressing similar environmental health issues.
One immediate concern voiced and echoed by others present was if the project is would be perceived as one that targets businesses or residents and burdens them with mandated, costly remediation. It was noted that the project’s intent is not that and its’ scope includes identifying funding mechanisms/resources that would allow the group to work with businesses and individuals in a collaborative way.
Possible areas of discussion may be related (but not limited) to concerns over exposure to radon, lead, mercury, asbestos, or carbon monoxide; The storage, use and disposal of household hazardous materials (ie. Cleaners); The Route 4 construction project was cited as an example of the effect dust, particulates and vehicle emissions have on air quality); The impact fertilizers, pesticides or temporarily capped landfills may have on water quality; Identifying “green suppliers” for environmentally friendly home, personal care or commercial products, as well as suggestions for Best Practices for business, home and/or community that will help the community be more resourceful and environmentally conscious.
It was noted that Washington County Public Health Department has received a grant for home radon testing (more information forthcoming).
TCE was clearly a hot button issue. The majority present voiced the strong opinion that it was evident the current process/mechanisms in place have not satisfactorily addressed the concerns of those affected residents.
Open discussions also involved (a) Additional outreach in the community so we are more representative of the entire community, which the CARE Coordinator will handle (b) how we may ramp up our visibility by communicating via website, newsletter, and/or articles in publications (c) educational programming for students, businesses, residents and professionals
Organization: Discussions focused on (a) whether we need to bring in an outside facilitator and consensus seemed to indicate that the CARE Project Coordinator could serve in that capacity with the caveat, that it is open-ended and outside assistance will be utilized if necessary and (b) whether a steering committee should be formed. Consensus again seemed to indicate a steering committee would be best to keep things focused and realistic.
Future Meetings: It was agreed 600pm was the best start time and 1 ½ to 2 hours maximum be devoted to the meeting. The second or forth Tuesday of every month was identified as open and suitable meeting days, with the fourth Tuesday of the month being settled upon.
Possible Meeting Locations: In no particular order of availability or priority: Village/Town Hall, Fort Edward Fire Department Hall, Rogers Island Visitor Center Conference Room and the EPA/Hudson River Field Office. Some felt the EPA/HRFO was an awkward place considering the CARE Project is detached from the dredging project. Some felt the Village/Town Hall, or Fire Department Hall would be more accessible and suited to larger audiences.
Next meeting: Wed. January 22, 2008, 600pm @ the EPA/Hudson River Field Office