Energy Committee Meeting Minutes (draft) 2.18.24

Arlington Energy Committee

Tuesday, February 18, 2024

6:30 – 8:00 pm

At Town Hall and Online

In attendance:

Present in Town Hall: Joan Nash

On Zoom: Karen Lee, Stephanie Moffett-Hynds, Mardi Crane, Jenny Murtagh, Mary Ann Carlson, Mary Anne Holmes, and guest Carl Bucholt of the Manchester Energy Committee Chair

1. Call to Order: 6:32pm

2. Approval of Minutes, February 12 AEC Planning Meeting: Stephanie moved to accept; Joan seconded, no objections.

3. Guest Carl discussed Manchester, VT’s Town Energy Plan – upcoming revisions and updates. Their Energy Plan, developed by their Energy Committee, will be incorporated into the 2025 Manchester Town Plan.

Carl provided a presentation on what sources of energy actually reduce carbon emissions and what sources do not. He presented data on wood- and wood pellet-burning stoves, showing their high fine particulate emissions (which cause multiple health problems), and greater greenhouse gas emissions (greater than fossil fuels).

4a. Climate Mitigation & Outreach Discussion

The Town of Arlington’s Hazard Mitigation Plan is currently undergoing revision, led by Dara Zink, Regional Planner, Bennington County Regional Commission. Status of the revision was discussed; the Committee expressed a strong interest in volunteering our efforts for needed Outreach arising from the plan.

4b. Update on the C Tracking Tool: Joni will send the latest version to committee members to assist with auditing the accuracy of the 2023 information.

4c. Proposed next steps for Arlington to achieve Net 0 Carbon Emissions will be compiled for our next meeting.

Next Meeting will be Wednesday, April 2, 2025.

Motion to adjourn, 8:04 by Mardi; seconded by Joni, none opposed.

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