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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes_Environmental Advisory Committee_2/11/2026 MINUTES ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (EAC) MEETING VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA, FL FEBRUARY 11, 2026 2:00 PM VILLAGE COUNCIL CHAMBERS CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL The meeting was called to order by Chair Brad Freese at 2:00 p.m. A roll call was taken by Planner Meg Wyble. Present were: Wade Chance, Drew Henriques, Michelle Shearouse, Brad Freese, Jill Wenta, Russ Redman, and Thomas G. Bradford. APPROVAL OF AGENDA MOTION: EAC Member Shearouse made a motion to approve the agenda as presented; EAC Member Wenta seconded the motion. Carried unanimously 7-0. PRESENTATIONS CONSENT AGENDA 1. MINUTES: December 10, 2025 MOTION: Vice-Chair Bradford made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda as presented, including the EAC meeting minutes from December 10, 2025; EAC Member Wenta seconded the motion. Carried unanimously 7-0. END OF CONSENT AGENDA REGULAR AGENDA OLD BUSINESS 2. Hazardous Waste Disposal Event Update Staff provided an update regarding a potential household hazardous waste "amnesty day" style event, including vendor outreach and cost considerations. Staff reported that vendors contacted (including ChemClean and Clean Earth) indicated a Page 1 of 3 starting mobilization cost of approximately $5,000, with total event costs potentially in the $15,000—$20,000+ range depending on the waste types and quantities collected. Staff explained that household hazardous waste includes multiple categories requiring specialized on-site handling and equipment, which can significantly increase costs. The Committee discussed an alternative approach centered on encouraging residents to use the nearby SWA hazardous waste facility and implementing an incentive program (e.g., an Earth Day theme) where residents who provide proof of drop-off and Tequesta residency could receive a small gift card to a local business. The Committee discussed using a limited quantity (e.g., first 100 participants) and structuring it in a way that supports local businesses while improving participation. Staff and the Committee discussed including this incentive concept as part of strategic planning/budget discussions, with a potential allocation in the $1,00042,000 range. 3. Vertical Oyster Garden Event Planning Staff reviewed event planning for a Vertical Oyster Garden (VOG) demonstration and outreach event to coincide with the Village live music series at Constitution Park, with potential dates discussed as April 11, 2026 or May 9, 2026. Staff advised that the original presenter/resource (Tom Twyford) was not available on the proposed music series dates. The Committee discussed the need for volunteers to attend training sessions in order to staff the event booth and demonstrate the oyster garden assembly. Staff identified training opportunities at the West Palm Beach Fishing Club: • February 12, 2026 at 10:00 AM • March 10, 2026 at 10:00 AM Staff described the demonstration process including workstations, tools (e.g., mallets, specialized nails, tables/workbenches), shell preparation, and the need for proper spacing when stringing shells. The Committee discussed allowing supervised youth participation for the hammering portion and noted that stringing requires some additional care/skill. Staff also noted that additional volunteer support will be needed for installation locations, including identifying waterfront properties that may host VOGs. Staff indicated that suitable locations are typically areas where oysters are already present nearby. The Committee discussed coordinating outreach and education messaging tied to the event, including water quality, stormwater awareness, and public messaging regarding oysters on seawalls. The Committee discussed the Village's communication tools such as social media and newsletters to promote the initiative and recruit volunteer hosts. The Committee discussed selecting a single event date and indicated support for moving forward with April 11, 2026 as the preferred live music series date for the VOG outreach Page 2of3 event. NEW BUSINESS 4. JILONA Construction Tour Scheduling Staff advised the Committee that a tour invitation was circulated for the JILONA project and encouraged members to RSVP per the email instructions. Staff noted the project is approximately 50% complete and that additional tour opportunities may occur closer to completion. COMMENTS OF COMMITTEE MEMBERS, VILLAGE COUNCIL LIAISON AND STAFF The Committee discussed potential future topics including pesticide/herbicide regulation (state versus local authority) and continued public interest in water quality topics, including PFAS and microplastics. The Committee also discussed filtration concepts and public education opportunities. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ANY OTHER MATTERS ADJOURNMENT MOTION: EAC Member Shearouse made a motion to adjourn the meeting; Vice-Chair Bradford seconded the motion. Carried unanimously 7-0. J Hu ch, AICP Page 3 of 3