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Environment Advisory Council Releases 2018 Work Plan

Westminster, MD, Thursday, February 8, 2018 – Today, the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) held its annual meeting with the Environmental Advisory Council (EAC) to review the Environmental Advisory Council’s 2017 Annual Report and discuss the proposed 2018 Work Plan. 

In its advisory role to the Board, the EAC’s primary projects and topics of discussion are intended to provide the Board with additional information and perspectives on environmental issues, or environmental aspects of broader issues, being considered by or anticipated to be discussed by the Board.  The EAC also plays an important role in public education regarding environmental issues relevant to the County.  The EAC drafted a proposed work plan that outlines projects and issues anticipated for 2018, on which the EAC may be able to provide additional information to help inform Board decisions, discussion, or policies regarding these topics or to provide public outreach for environmental issues.

The EAC’s primary projects for 2018 include research and a report to the Board on allowing community solar energy generation systems (CSEGS) in Carroll County and options for reduction of use of expanded polystyrene foam (EPS).  Research on CSEGSs will include the benefits and challenges to Carroll County of allowing CSEGSs in zoning districts other than the Business or Industrial Districts.  The EAC will also research options for greywater use and plastic bag recycling.

EAC members will coordinate with staff to apply for a SolSmart designation for Carroll County in recognition of the steps the County has taken to address local barriers to solar energy.  The designation also is meant to help attract new businesses via the economic benefits that solar energy brings. 

Also, nominations are currently being accepted for the EAC’s biennial Environmental Awareness Awards. Nominations are due March 1, 2018.  Awards will be jointly presented by the Board and the EAC in April.  Nomination information is available on the EAC webpage at http://ccgovernment.carr.org/ccg/eac/.

Today’s discussion is available by viewing Open Session today.  The EAC’s final work plan will be posted on the EAC webpage at http://ccgovernment.carr.org/ccg/eac/.

For additional information, contact:

Chris Winebrenner
410-386-2043

The Americans with Disabilities Act applies to the Carroll County Government and its programs, services, activities, and facilities. Anyone requiring an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication or who has a complaint should contact The Department of Citizen Services, 410.386.3600 or 1.888.302.8978 or MD Relay 7-1-1/1.800.735.2258 as soon as possible but no later than 72 hours before the scheduled event.