Ad Hoc Sustainability and Resilience Committee

Regular Meeting

Norwalk, CT · June 11, 2025

Minutes

CITY OF NORWALK AD HOC SUSTAINABILITY AND RESILIENCE COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING JUNE 11, 2025 VIA ZOOM VIRTUAL MEETING ATTENDANCE: Johan Lopez: Chair, Josh Goldstein. Nora Niedzielski-Eichner, Margaret (Lisa) Shanahan STAFF: Jodi Trendler OTHER: Tom Livingston I. CALL TO ORDER Mr. Lopez called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. II. ROLL CALL The roll was called as reflected above. III. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION Diane Laurella 21 Little Fox Lane Ms. Lauricella addressed the committee supporting the proposed Community Sustainability Task Force. She referenced her prior involvement in forming the Mayor’s Energy and Environmental Task Force under Mayor Rilling, which included volunteers from the Board of Education and city agencies. She stated that the task force lasted approximately a year and a half and undertook a few initiatives before disbanding. She emphasized the value of public engagement and events like the Earth Day energy forum. She expressed interest in discussing future programming related to solar and geothermal solutions with Jodi Trendler. IV. ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES A. AD HOC SUSTAINABILITY AND RESILIENCE COMMITTEE SPECIAL MEETING CITY OF NORWALK AD HOC SUSTAINABILITY AND RESILIENCE COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING JUNE 11, 2025 Page 1 5:00 PM, MAY 14, 2025 ** MS. SHANAHAN MOVED TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES. ** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. V. NEW BUSINESS A. Community Task Force Structure Discussion Ms. Trendler provided an update and expanded on the previously proposed task force structure. She emphasized that sustainability requires engagement across three pillars: human, environmental, and economic. She noted that many of the city’s 48 boards and commissions already align with one of these pillars, while others fall under governance and operations. Ms. Trendler proposed that the task force could take one of two forms: • A coalition comprised of chairs from existing relevant boards and commissions, allows better coordination, information sharing, and strategic planning. • A broader, newly-formed sustainability commission structured around specific focus areas such as energy, transportation, waste, building and development, natural resources, and community wealth building. Ms. Trendler shared a visual classification of city boards and commissions by sustainability pillar and identified a critical gap in energy representation. She noted one of the current boards or commissions does not specifically address energy, which she stated will be central to the climate resilience and sustainability plan. Ms, Trendler opened the floor for input on which structure the committee preferred and how best to ensure coordination without inefficiency. Mr. Lopez responded in support of a representative model where chairs of each group participate in a larger sustainability body, promoting transparency, collaboration, and shared goals. He also recommended including residents who are not currently members of boards or commissions but are active in relevant community efforts. Ms. Shanahan raised the question of whether external environmental groups in Norwalk would be invited to participate. Ms. Trendler clarified that the current structure focused solely on internal city boards and commissions. Ms. Shanahan addressed concerns about the potential size and complexity of the task force. One member questioned how such a large group could remain effective and whether the task force’s CITY OF NORWALK AD HOC SUSTAINABILITY AND RESILIENCE COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING JUNE 11, 2025 Page 2 focus would be narrowed. Ms. Trendler explained that the climate action and sustainability resilience plan would serve as the main driver of tasks and targets, especially related to emissions reductions. However, she acknowledged the importance of also addressing broader human factors such as health and safety. Ms. Trendler requested additional feedback and ideas from the committee on how best to structure the task force moving forward. Mr. Lopez continued the discussion on creating a collaborative task force composed of members from various boards and commissions. Ms. Shanahan acknowledged the number of organizations involved and expressed concerns about the group’s potential unwieldiness. Ms. Trendler clarified that the list presented was a preliminary overview and could be consolidated based on urgency and other factors. Outreach to additional community organizations was also confirmed. Mr. Goldstein added that while the goal was commendable, bringing too many people together might reduce efficacy. He likened the idea to an “Avengers of committees” but cautioned that it would require careful planning and structure to be effective. He reiterated that even having just the chairs from each group could still be too many participants. Not all committees intersect meaningfully with sustainability efforts, and refining the list would be necessary. Ms. Trendler explained that the purpose behind the proposed task force was not just coordination but also tracking and data integration. She stated the goal is to ensure that if sustainability-related initiatives are happening within one board or commission, others are not aware and that this work contributes to a holistic city-wide strategy. She emphasized the importance of data collection in monitoring and measuring climate efforts, such as emissions reductions from scooter programs. Ms. Trendler described how in her previous roles, such task forces operated largely through subcommittees focusing on specific issues like natural resources, which would then report back periodically to a larger group, possibly every month. This would allow focused work while keeping communication channels open across the broader body. Mr. Lopez recommended that subcommittees report through designated representatives or chairs to keep the overall group manageable. This idea was supported as a functional structure. Ms. Trendler emphasized that the current list was simply an overview to illustrate existing resources. She stated the structure would be built to facilitate collaboration and manage efforts better. Mr. Goldstein commended the data-collection focus, noting frequent communication gaps between departments and highlighting the importance of having IT infrastructure to support the initiative. Ms. Niedzielski-Eichner was acknowledged for suggesting that planning commissions should come together at least occasionally to address overlaps, gaps, and potential consolidations, stressing the need not to limit participation to currently existing commissions alone. CITY OF NORWALK AD HOC SUSTAINABILITY AND RESILIENCE COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING JUNE 11, 2025 Page 3 B. Global Covenant of Mayors Commitment Ms. Trendler presented the next phase of climate action and sustainability planning. She explained that Norwalk has already completed a baseline greenhouse gas emissions inventory and must now set reduction targets and identify effective strategies across various sectors. This ties into the task force structure and the role of boards and commissions. Ms. Trendler introduced the Global Covenant of Mayors as a global effort uniting municipal leaders committed to ambitious and measurable climate action. She noted over 14,000 cities are currently signed on. She noted The initiative was originally started in Europe and later joined by Mayor Bloomberg, eventually merging to form a unified movement supported by organizations such as C40 Cities, ICLEI (Local Governments for Sustainability), and the UN. Ms. Trendler noted the covenant supports cities through programs including Data for Cities (a tool for monitoring emissions), Innovate for Cities (focused on urban planning), and Invest for Cities (funding support). She indicated by joining, cities improve access to technical assistance and funding. Ms. Trendler indicated the commitment involves the mayor signing a pledge affirming the city’s intent to reduce emissions, increase sustainable energy use, enhance resilience through adaptation and mitigation, and regularly report on progress. He reassured the commission that Norwalk is already aligned with many of these requirements through its existing sustainability efforts, including the resilience plan and the greenhouse gas inventory. Ms. Trendler provided an overview of the implementation steps following the City's recent progress on climate planning. She stated the City has already completed a greenhouse gas inventory and hazard evaluation, with further analysis underway through the upcoming Community Flood Resilience Plan. She noted any components have been addressed in prior plans. He explained the next phase includes setting augmented targets, assessing vulnerabilities, creating an action plan, and establishing monitoring and reporting mechanisms. Ms. Trendler noted currently, New Haven and Bridgeport are the only two Connecticut cities to have signed on to the initiative. She explained the benefits, including alignment with Sustainable CT and access to financial support, tools, and resources. She emphasized that joining the commitment demonstrates accountability and a genuine dedication to sustainability rather than greenwashing. Ms. Shanahan asked whether the proposal required formal action. Ms. Trendler responded that it must be discussed with the Mayor and approved by the Council before submission to the U.S. oversight committee for the C40 Cities network. Mr. Lopez raises a question about the ability to modify the commitment letter. Ms. Trendler clarified that the letter is a standardized document and must be agreed to as-is. She stated it CITY OF NORWALK AD HOC SUSTAINABILITY AND RESILIENCE COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING JUNE 11, 2025 Page 4 outlines required deliverables within three years, including a community-scale greenhouse gas inventory, assessment of climate vulnerabilities, ambitious emissions reduction targets, adaptation goals based on scientific evidence, improved access to affordable sustainable energy, and formally adopted climate plans. She noted some components are already in place, while others are being developed. Mr. Livingston emphasized the importance of gaining Council support, noting the Mayor would not sign the commitment without Council backing. He suggested a resolution might be needed to demonstrate unified support, as the actions will require ongoing coordination across city departments. Niedzielski-Eichner, unable to raise her hand, texted a question asking whether any of the commitment actions would take place before the next election. Ms. Trendler responded that the timing is ideal but dependent on the Commission and Council’s engagement. Ms. Lopez discussed his recent visit to the Ridgefield Recycling Center, highlighting its organic recycling program managed in collaboration with the Housatonic Resources Recovery Authority (HRRA), which partners with approximately 28 municipalities. He noted the tour provided insight into the Center's processing of residential organic waste into compost using a smart machine, with compost offered back to residents. Drop-off fees are $20 for residents and $50 for non-residents. He stated the program was praised for its effectiveness and scalability. Attendees included representatives from DEEP and local organizations. Mr. Lopez invited anyone interested in visiting the facility to coordinate a future tour, describing the experience as both educational and impactful. VI. ADJOURNMENT ** MS. SHANAHAN MOVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING. ** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 p.m. Respectfully submited China Mayhew Telesco Secretarial Services CITY OF NORWALK AD HOC SUSTAINABILITY AND RESILIENCE COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING JUNE 11, 2025 Page 5

Agenda

Packet

REGULAR MEETING – AD HOC SUSTAINABILITY AND RESILIENCE COMMITTEE AGENDA JUNE 11, 2025, 6:00 PM BY ZOOM VIRTUAL MEETING To allow public access, anyone may access a meeting by telephone and/or Zoom, or a recording in the City of Norwalk YouTube channel. Specific instructions and links can be found at norwalkct.gov/meetings. Members of the public may call in to participate. Callers will not be able to see the meeting participants. All participants will be muted upon entering the meeting. To speak, dial *9 on the phone and you will be called on by the host of the meeting during the public comment section. All speakers must state their name and address. Comments must be on a topic on the agenda, and are limited to three minutes. Anyone disrupting the orderly conduct of the meeting, including by using threatening, hateful, or sexually-explicit language, will be removed. Please find the information using the link above. Members of the public who wish to provide "live comments" may also use the Zoom meeting platform. All participants will be muted upon entering the meeting. To speak, click the “raise your hand indicator” and you will be called by the host of the meeting during the public comment section. All speakers must state their name and address. Comments must be on a topic on the agenda, and are limited to three minutes. Anyone disrupting the orderly conduct of the meeting, including by using threatening, hateful, or sexually-explicit language, will be removed. Please find the information using the link above. Members of the public who wish to provide public comment are encouraged to submit those via email in advance of the meeting. For these comments to be included into the record, they must be submitted by 12:00 p.m. the day of the meeting. Please email Jodi Trendler at jtrendler@norwalkct.gov with the subject line “Public Comment” to provide written public comment prior to the meeting. I. CALL TO ORDER II. ROLL CALL III. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IV. ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES A. AD HOC SUSTAINABILITY AND RESILIENCE COMMITTEE SPECIAL MEETING 5:00 PM, MAY 14, 2025 V. NEW BUSINESS A. Community Task Force Structure Discussion B. Global Covenant of Mayors Committment VI. ADJOURNMENT Page 1 of 21 GCoM: Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate & Energy Norwalk Commitment Page 2 of 21 Overview • What is GCoM? • What is the commitment? • Why should Norwalk Join? Page 3 of 21 What is GCoM? • “The largest global alliance for city climate leadership across the globe.” • The cities and partners of GCoM share a long-term vision of supporting voluntary action to combat climate change and shift towards a resilient and low-emission society. • GCoM serves cities and local governments by mobilizing and supporting ambitious, measurable, planned climate action. Page 4 of 21 Norwalk Aligns: Cities are on the front line of climate change, but they also are uniquely positioned to lower emissions. Mayors around the world are eager to lead and the Global Covenant of Mayors helps them to take action. Page 5 of 21 2008: The Covenant of 2014: The Compact of Mayors was a global cooperative effort, Mayors was created with launched by Ban Ki-moon the support of the and Mike Bloomberg at the UN European Commission and Climate Summit, inspired the set-up of many among mayors and city of the existing officials to pledge to reduce GCoM History Regional/National Covenants worldwide. greenhouse gas emissions, track progress and prepare for the impacts of climate change. 2017: The Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate & Energy formally brings together the European Union’s Covenant of Mayors and the Compact of Mayors – the world’s two primary initiatives of cities and local governments – to advance city-level transition to a low emission and climate- resilient economy, and to demonstrate the global impact of local action. Global City Networks & Partners Page 6 of 21 GCoM Leadership GCoM ensures that signatories • C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group (US - Bloomberg) are continuously supported in their efforts. Cities receive step- • ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability (Global) by-step guidance and have access to tools, materials, and a • United Cities and Local Governments (EU) dedicated regional/national • UN Habitat (Global) helpdesk through leadership partners. • United Nations (Global) Page 7 of 21 GCoM Programs 1. Data4Cities: ClimateView/ClearPath 2. Innovate4Cities: Innovate4Cities – the Urban Transitions Mission 3. Invest4Cities: Funding & International Coalition for Sustainable Infrastructure (ICSI) “ “ Enable GCoM cities, local governments, and the networks that support them in bridging the gap from climate ambition to action delivery. GCoM Mission Page 8 of 21 Norwalk Understands: Speaking impact Your ability to communicate effectively will leave a lasting impact on your audience Effectively communicating involves not only delivering a message but also resonating with the experiences, values, and emotions of those listening Page 9 of 21 GCoM cities and local governments are united in their shared goals to: • Increase access to secure, affordable, and sustainable energy • Ensure communities live in healthy environments • Raise awareness to accelerate the response to climate change The Commitment Page 10 of 21 1. COMMIT 2. ASSESS 3. SET GOALS 4. PLAN 5. IMPLEMENT 6. MONITOR & REPORT 7. VALIDATE 8. UPDATE Page 11 of 21 A mayor or local government official registers their city’s commitment to GCoM, & they pledge to: 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions 2. Enhance resilience to climate change 3. Track their progress transparently The Commitment Page 12 of 21 Norwalk is already on the path 1. COMMIT GHG Inventory – DONE 2. ASSESS 3. SET GOALS 4. PLAN 5. IMPLEMENT 6. MONITOR & REPORT 7. VALIDATE 8. UPDATE Page 13 of 21 Compliance REPORTING: Page 14 of 21 Speaking engagement metrics Join 188 other Bridgeport, CT CT 8/18/2015 US Cities New Haven, CT CT 2/2/2017 Page 15 of 21 DEFINE: Why Join? “Greenest City” Report outlines recommendations for subnational governments to ensure the credibility, accountability, and transparency of their net zero commitments while acknowledging their varied capacities and characteristics. Aligns with Sustainable CT Page 16 of 21 BENEFITS Encouragement & Inspiration Guidance & Practical Support Better Financial Opportunities Resources and Tools Visibility & Recognition Shaping the future Page 17 of 21 Norwalk Knows: Page 18 of 21 Let’s Do This Page 19 of 21 Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate & Energy Commitment of City of Norwalk, Connecticut United States of America I, Harry Rilling, Mayor of the City of Norwalk, Connecticut, commit to the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate & Energy (GCoM), joining thousands of other cities and local governments around the world currently engaged in climate leadership. GCoM envisions a world where committed mayors and local governments – in alliance with partners – accelerate ambitious, measurable climate and energy initiatives that lead to an inclusive, just, low- emission and climate resilient future, helping to meet and exceed the Paris Agreement objectives. Whatever the size or location, the mayors and local leaders committed to GCoM stand ready to take concrete measures with long-term impact to tackle the interconnected challenges of climate change mitigation and adaptation, as well as access to sustainable energy. To implement this vision, we pledge to implement policies and undertake measures to (i) reduce / avoidi greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, (ii) prepare for the impacts of climate change, (iii) increase access to sustainable energy, and (iv) track progress toward these objectives. Specifically, within three years of this commitmentii, we pledge to develop, adoptiii, use and regularly report on the following: • A community-scale GHG emission inventory, following the recommended guidance; • An assessment of climate risks and vulnerabilities; • Ambitious, measurable and time-bound target(s) to reduce/avoid GHG emissions; • Ambitious climate change adaptation vision and goals, based on quantified scientific evidence when possible, to increase local resilience to climate change; • An ambitious and just goal to improve access to secure, sustainable and affordable energy; and • A formally adopted plan(s) addressing climate change mitigation / low emission development, climate resilience and adaptation, and access to sustainable energy. The targets and action plans for mitigation / low emission development must be quantified and consistent with or exceed relevant national unconditional iv commitments defined through the UNFCCC (Intended) Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC). The targets and action plans should be in line with National Adaptation Plans, where these exist; and should be consistent with the www.globalcovenantofmayors.com Page 20 of 21 principles around energy access and urban sustainability embodied in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We will explore the allocation of adequate staff resources and institutional arrangements. This includes governance processes, municipal structures and budget allocations to deliver on this commitment and secure continuity. We acknowledge that there may be additional regional- or country-specific commitments or requirements that we commit to follow, and that may be agreed through our city networks or through our direct engagement with local partners of GCoM. The city of Norwalk acknowledges that continued engagement in GCoM and associated Regional or National Covenants, as established, is contingent on complying with the above requirements within established timeframes. Name and title of person signing this commitment Mayor Harry Rilling City of Norwalk 125 East Avenue Norwalk, CT 06851 https://norwalkct.gov/ Mayor Harry Rilling, HRilling@norwalkct.gov (203) 854-7701 92,458 Inhabitants, 36.37 sq. miles United States of America, https://norwalkct.gov/ OFFICIAL SIGNATURE Mandated by the City of Norwalk Common Council on July 8, 2025. i “Avoid emission” via low emission development ii Flexibility is allowed to suit differentiated local circumstances and needs. iii According to the city and local government’s procedures iv Many countries have submitted two sets of NDC targets: unconditional targets, to be implemented without any explicit external support; and conditional targets. The latter are more ambitious than unconditional targets and require external support for their fulfilment. The cities and local governments committing to the GCoM are required to commit at least to the equivalent of their country’s unconditional targets, but are encouraged to be more ambitious where possible. www.globalcovenantofmayors.com 2 Page 21 of 21