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Farmers Branch committee outlines spring volunteer events, discusses composting, water-rebate uptake and smart-meter rollout
Summary
Members reviewed volunteer staffing for Earth Day, Fishing Fun and a May 9 Cooks Creek cleanup, discussed tree-giveaway vendor searches and composting workshop attendance, and received an update that the water-billing/software integration is expected by summer.
The Farm Sustainability Committee reviewed an event calendar and volunteer needs for several spring and fall programs, discussed waste-diversion and composting outreach, and received an update on planned water-usage software and outreach materials.
Staff said the city will rely on committee volunteers for fall programs such as the tree giveaway once a vendor is selected; Texas Trees Foundation no longer runs the giveaway, so staff will issue requests for quotes and seek a vendor this spring. Staff reported 136 water-toilet rebate applications and 17 irrigation checkup applications to date and encouraged outreach at community events to drive program participation.
For spring events, the committee identified staffing needs: Fishing Fun on April 27 needs at least two volunteers (event 8–11 a.m.), and Gateway to the Globe will be split into two shifts. Eric, the storm water manager, will lead a Cooks Creek cleanup on May 9 at JC Park to help meet stormwater requirements. Staff said volunteers who participate in active cleanup tasks may have to sign liability waivers.
Members discussed educational programming: the Built Natural Environments subcommittee reported the composting workshop previously attracted 21 participants in its first year but dropped to nine last year; members suggested hands-on components, partnering with master gardeners or Dallas College, promoting the library’s seed library and offering zero-scaping or rain-barrel workshops in the spring or fall. Committee members emphasized scheduling (Saturday mornings vs. weekday evenings) to maximize attendance.
The committee also heard a software update: city staff are working to integrate the billing system with the new water-usage software so customers can monitor usage in real time; staff said the rollout remains on track for summer and communications will prepare short videos, QR codes and one- or two-page guides for event tabling. Members suggested doing in-person demos (screen mirroring) to show residents how to use the app.
On waste diversion, members asked for clearer direction from the city council about diversion goals and composting priorities; the chair said staff will look into inviting the solid-waste manager to explain landfill contracts, tipping fees and options for regional coordination.
No formal policy votes were taken; staff will follow up with vendor procurement information for the tree giveaway, outreach materials for the water app and scheduling details for workshops and volunteer events.
