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Sustainability Advisory Board refines 2026 goals, plans farmers-market outreach and baseline education metrics
Summary
The board discussed wording and measurability for its 2026 goals (prefer 'recommend' vs. 'advise'), agreed to workshop energy-plan initiatives, and concurred to pursue three farmers-market dates with outreach ideas (tips, QR codes, simple engagement activities); the board approved Jan. 5 minutes and adjourned.
At its Feb. 2 meeting, the Oshkosh Sustainability Advisory Board reviewed draft goals for 2026 and focused on language and measurement approaches. Staff had provided redlines to clarify priorities; members debated whether the board should 'recommend' initiatives to City Council or use the softer word 'advise.' Staff said the redlines are suggestions and the board can restore or change wording; members agreed to refine language and to add measurable language for public education outreach.
On measurement, board members proposed treating venues (farmers markets, printed communications, public speaking, social media) as the delivery methods and using simple baseline metrics in year one (for example: count individuals engaged at events, track social-media engagement). One member suggested using 'touch points' at in-person events and social-media metrics for online outreach. Staff said city communications staff and Pale Blue Dot would support amplification.
Board members also discussed the summer farmers market: the application opens Feb. 15 and members preferred selecting three dates spaced through the season to ensure staffing coverage. The board discussed low-cost engagement materials (a reusable "Plinko" game, QR codes linking to tips, seed swaps) and the possibility of pooling resources with other departments to fund booth materials. Members agreed to run a doodle poll to identify preferred dates and to reconvene on the topic at the next meeting.
Votes at a glance: A motion to approve the minutes from Jan. 5 was made and seconded; the board approved the minutes by voice vote. The board later moved and seconded to adjourn; voice vote approved.
What happens next: Staff will share updated goal language and measurement suggestions for a future meeting, coordinate with communications staff on outreach materials, and circulate a doodle poll for farmers-market date selection.
