January 5, 2009
Ambler Main Street Green Committee Meeting Minutes
I. Reviewed old business
The group engaged a discussion about local development, businesses that are
closing and businesses that are moving into town. The costs and benefits
of their waste management and recycling practices were considered.
II. Bike / Walking Trails
The proposed improvements for bicycle trails by the Delaware Valley Regional
Planning Commission and the Montgomery County Planning Commission were
located on printed and web maps. Existing bicycle racks are being identified.
III. Website
A. The green website at http://philanet.com/green/ is being updated on a
regular basis. Information and maps of the bike trails and bicycle racks are being created for posting there and on the borough's website.
B. A discussion on nominating and recognizing local businesses for their
green practices helped to further the initiative. An interactive form
for the general population to nominate a business has been incorporated
into the website. Verde would likely be an early choice to highlight.
IV. Plastic Bag Free Ambler
An initiative to make Ambler a "plastic bag free" community was presented.
The Green Committee is working in conjunction with the Ambler Environmental
Advisory Committee. The largest distributors of plastic bags are to be
contacted for their input. The committee will aim to contact CVS
to encourage a "plastic bag free" policy at their opening.
V. Cardboard
Possibilities for bailing and recycling cardboard were discussed. The
only identified bailer in town may be leaving (ACME). The committee will approach
the owner to explore them leaving the bailer to the borough.