Economic Vitality Committee Agenda and Packet 2023 03 10

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Economic Vitality Committee Meeting Minutes February 17, 2023 Page 4 of 5 Chair Leh commented that he is also in support of the proposal and appreciated the various programs offered to different types of businesses. He asked for clarification on the Boulder County Climate Tax. Coordinator Betzold responded that this tax amount could go up or down and that the final amount allocated back to Louisville in future years is not known until Fall. The City can apply for this funding to be used for a new position for four years beginning in 2024. Public Comment from Mark Cathcart: Mr. Cathcart asked whether the City expects an end to the use of disposable bags in Louisville. Coordinator Betzold responded that while plastics bags will be banned by the state starting in 2024, paper bags will likely still be used and therefore taxed. Mr. Cathcart also noted that restaurants can produce quite a bit of waste that is not recyclable and that reusable containers would need to be delivered and/or picked up by delivery vehicles that are likely gas -powered. Councilmember Fahey asked whether multi -family units would be able to take advantage of these programs to provide recycling for residents. City Manager Durbin and Coordinator Betzold responded that a future phase 2 could potentially be expanded to include residential services, and that this component will be included in discussion with Council. Public Comment from Eric Lund: Mr. Lund shared his excitement for the program and noted that he thinks it will be very helpful for the business community. Public Comment from Mike Kranzdorf: Mr. Kranzdorf noted that businesses who have been recycling for a number of years would not receive any sort of financial incentive for doing so. He also commented that both property owners and commercial tenants would need to work together to begin participating in the commercial recycling program. He wondered whether the property owner would be the one reimbursed in this scenario. Coordinator Betzold confirmed that Boulder County would directly reimburse the hauler. Mr. Kranzdorf closed his comments by stating that he would be interested in this program benefitting residents as well. Chair Leh asked for confirmation that Ridwell does recycle the items that they pick up. Coordinator Betzold confirmed that there is documentation showing that Ridwell recycles its items and that she would include additional information in the report to Council. Coordinator Betzold summarized previous feedback from the Louisville Sustainability Advisory Board, noting that they had requested an analysis on the impact and effectiveness of the program. This analysis could be used to make recommendations to the plan for 2024. Agenda Packet P. 6