Stowe City Council on Jan. 8 adopted Ordinance 2026‑025 to create a Citizens Environmental Commission (Chapter 185 of the City Code) after committee discussion and multiple public testimonies.

Supporters argued the commission will bring subject‑matter expertise to recommend policies on land use, natural resources and sustainability and help the city pursue outside grants. "There's lots of reasons why an environmental commission is important for any city not just Stowe," former commissioner Patty Spring told council, outlining renewable energy, biodiversity and food‑waste diversion as early priorities.

Council discussion touched on membership composition and whether the duties overlapped with existing commissions. Councilmember Baranek asked whether membership should ensure ward representation; sponsors said membership structures vary and suggested expanding the commission if warranted. Councilmember Coffey expressed concern that existing commissions sometimes lack quorums and said she preferred to route ideas through existing bodies rather than create a new commission; Coffey recorded the sole 'no' vote on final adoption.

The ordinance passed on suspension of rules and will take effect in accordance with the city's adoption procedures. The mayor's office will appoint commissioners subject to council confirmation, and staff said the commission could be a partner for ReWorks, the local recycling/composting organization.