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The Sustainability Commission was created in March 2007, (by Ordinance No. 20379), following a recommendation from the Mayor’s Sustainable Business Initiative taskforce. The commission will focus on all three aspects of sustainability - social equity, environmental health and economic prosperity.
mission statement
The Sustainability Commission works to create a healthy community now and in the future by proposing measurable solutions to pressing environmental, social and economic concerns to the City of Eugene, its partners and its people.
Recruitment for a diverse applicant pool for the Commission began in June 2007 and 73 applications were received. The council appointed 4 members from the community at large and each city councilor appointed one citizen. The Mayor then appointed one city councilor. There are a total of 13 commissioners, listed in the box on the left.
The first meeting of the commission was held in November 2007.
The Commission acts as a policy advisory body to the council and city manager in the initiation or development of programs that will create or enhance sustainable practices within the community. The commission will advise on policy matters related to:
- Sustainable practices;
- Businesses that produce sustainable products and services;
- City building design and infrastructure; and
- Related issues that directly affect sustainability efforts considered by the city council.
As outlined in the Ordinance, the commission shall:
(a) Make recommendations to the council and city manager for the programs or actions designed to implement the recommendations contained in the Sustainable Business Initiative Task Force report as accepted by the city council on October 23, 2006; (b) Create and present an annual work plan to the city council; (c) Meet annually with the city council to secure approval of the work plan; (d) Provide a forum for addressing public concerns related to sustainable practices; (e) Work on sustainability related policies as directed by the council and city manager; (f) Provide input on sustainability policies and practices that reflect community values; and (g) Assist the city council and city manager in balancing community priorities and resources by advising them on sustainability issues.
The first appointees to the commission will serve various terms. The four people chosen from the community at large will serve two years. While the four members appointed by councilors from wards 1 through 4 shall serve four years and members appointed by councilors from wards 5 through 8 shall serve 3 years. After this first term all members will serve a four year term, with the exception of the councilor who shall serve during the term of office.
All members are limited to serving two consecutive terms. For further information please contact: Kevin Finney, Sustainability Manager at kevin.p.finney@ci.eugene.or.us phone: 541/682 5017. |