ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES COMMITTEE
December 6, 2004
EMU Board Room
ATTENDEES: Ben Farrell, Taylour Johnson, Bob Jones, Christine Thompson, Dorene Steggell, Steve Mital, Paula Staight, Jim Blick, Robyn Hathcock, Karyn Kaplan, Anne Forrestel, Cheri Smith, Mitch Layden
Guests: Kate Skelton, Susan Mershon, Sebastian Collet, Chris Gamman
CASL
Sebastian Collet, Chris Gamman, and Susan Mershon presented an update on CASL. Sebastian is in the architecture program and said that students in that program would benefit from the hands-on experience that CASL would provide. They are looking forward to having a place where workshops could be held and where various departments could come together to share. This is a good time to be trying to obtain a house due to the changes in the east part of campus, although this process is in flux right now.
This year CASL has been accepted as an ASUO group. They currently have 2 co-directors positions (that would live eventually live in the house), 1 curriculum coordinator, 1 public relation person, 1 events/workshop coordinator, and a treasurer.
Karyn asked them how this committee could help. Anne asked if someone in the administration is championing the project. Dan Williams and Robert Melnick have both endorsed the idea. Steve suggested that CASL continue to develop a solid base of support with students and administrators to promote themselves and demonstrate commitment through events, workshops, and create power point and video presentations. These types of projects will provide a legacy that students in the future can build on. Consider partnering with EWEB, Bring Recycling, Jerry’s Home Improvement, eco-builders guide, and working with a documentary film unit on campus. Taylour suggested that they contact her next term to start building more student support through the ASUO. She also mentioned that PPPM students are always looking for experience with hands-on sustainability projects. Other groups to contact would be Terry McDonald at St. Vincent DePaul (Karyn could provide his e-mail) and Habitat for Humanity. Once a house becomes available, it will be important to demonstrate the need as well as the ability to utilize it well. Karyn advised that their first priority would be to connect with ASUO and have the support of an active faculty advisor.
Sustainability Coordinator Search
There were eight applicants, four were offered interviews, and two have accepted the invitation to interview. There will be an opportunity for the EIC to meet with the applicants on Friday, December 17th at 12:45 and at 3:30 p.m. in the EMU Rogue Room.
The next Environmental Issues Committee meeting will be held on January 20, from 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. in the EMU Umpqua Room.