Oshkosh City staff told the Sustainability Advisory Board on Nov. 3 that the consultant retained to revise the city sustainability plan has returned a wider scope of work and asked for additional funding, and staff is reviewing that scope and timeline before recommending next steps.

Emma, a city staff member who provided the update, said the consultant received the subcommittee’s draft sections and the board’s redline comments; the consultant then proposed what a revised second draft of the full plan would require and included an estimate for extra work. Staff said it received that scope about two weeks ago and is still evaluating cost and schedule. Emma said staff hopes to provide an update before the board’s next meeting and would aim to reach a decision on steps to move forward by the end of the calendar year if possible.

Board members discussed options if the consultant’s requested amount is not approved. Lisa Moore and others offered that volunteer subcommittees could draft one or more chapters to reduce consultant costs; Emma said she would pass that option up through staff channels for consideration. The board’s initial phase of work on the sustainability plan was funded with American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds: staff said the city set aside $60,000 during the 2024 budget process for the project after an earlier ARPA application was initially denied.

Members emphasized wanting a usable plan rather than a strict deadline; Emma said staff and the consultant are seeking a realistic timeline to produce a final plan the city can implement. No formal action was taken at the Nov. 3 meeting beyond discussion and offers of volunteer assistance.