Middleton committee hears updates on Efficiency Navigator, bulbs, composting kiosk and outreach plans

Committee members received program updates on several Middleton sustainability initiatives, including the Energy Efficiency Navigator, the Energy Future grant, LED bulb distribution to rental units, a county composting kiosk pilot and outreach plans for upcoming events.

Kelly (city staff) said the Efficiency Navigator project has been successful but financing and procurement for tenant solar is complex; the Energy Future grant is intended to help the city and partner organizations figure out how to layer federal funding (including Inflation Reduction Act rebates) and resolve procurement questions so private owners can take advantage of stacked incentives without violating grant rules.

On an outreach front, Kelly told the committee she distributed donated LED bulbs to apartment units and that initial feedback from tenants and property owners has been positive though a final Sustain Dane survey has not yet been shared. Kelly also said the county‑funded food‑composting kiosk (part of a Department of Agriculture grant) is likely to be installed in Middleton in late 2025 as a pilot at a single permanent site with haul‑away service to the Purple Cow composting operation.

Deb and other members discussed event outreach: ordering ~1,000 foldable reusable bags for Good Neighbor Fest (estimated $1.70–$2.15 each), possible T‑shirt orders for students and committee members (~$20 each), a table runner with committee branding (~$200) for tabling events, and staffing for a paper‑shred volunteer event this Friday at the recycling center. Members also reviewed upcoming Sustainable You talks and confirmed hosting duties while Deb is traveling.

The committee endorsed continuing the Efficiency Navigator work, encouraged outreach and student participation in events, and requested staff inventory remaining T‑shirts and return with precise cost estimates for event materials.