Sustainability-Related Boards and Commissions
Commissions
The Office of Sustainability and Innovations supports two of Ann Arbor's community advisory commissions: The Energy Commission and the Environmental Commission.
What is the role of the commissions?
City boards and commissions make periodic public reports and recommendations to City Council and the City Administrator on ways to improve city government programs and ordinances on energy or environmental topics. Commissions generally meet once monthly, are open to the public, and are broadcast and recorded on the Community Television Network (CTN).
The Energy Commission
The Energy Commission focuses on energy-related work. Learn more about the Energy Commission.
The Environmental Commission
The Environmental Commission was created by City Council in 2001 and is comprised of up to 15 members of the public appointed by City Council, including two youth members. The Environmental Commission meets on the fourth Thursday of each month at 7pm and is tasked with:
- Advising staff on the development of comprehensive, integrated environmental policies to protect and enhance our air, water, land, and public health.
- Helping set goals and policies for the City and community to continuously improve the natural and built environment.
- Working collaboratively with other City commissions, boards, and committees which have responsibilities for specific issues, including but not limited to the Planning Commission, Energy Commission, Park Advisory Commission, and Leslie Science & Nature Center Advisory Board.
Helpful Links:
- Environmental Commission Calendar
- Environmental Commission Bylaws
- Contact the Environmental Commission
- Staff liaison: Erin Donnelly, Environmental Services Manager
What projects have our commissions helped to advance?
Green Streets Policy
The Environmental Commission's Water Committee proposed a Green Streets Policy that City Council adopted, which sets stormwater infiltration standards for public streets.
Energy Benchmarking
The Energy Commission proposed a resolution to develop an ordinance to disclose commercial building energy data. City Council approved this resolution and the Energy Commission is now working on the proposed ordinance.
Community Solar
The Energy Commission proposed a resolution that was adopted by City Council in support of piloting options for community solar with DTE.
Urban and Community Forest Management
The Park Advisory and Environmental Commissions both provided comment and recommended the adoption of the first Urban and Community Forest Management Plan for Ann Arbor.
How can I get involved?
City residents interested in applying for an open position on a City board or commission can apply here. Currently available positions are listed under the "Vacancies" tab on the City's Boards and Commissions website. For more information about serving on any City board, please contact the Mayor's Office at 734.794.6161.
What are other commissions related to sustainability?
Greenbelt Advisory Commission (1st Thursday of each month at 4:30pm)
Historic District Commission (2nd Thursday of each month at 7pm)
Housing Commission (3rd Wednesday of each month at 6pm)
Planning Commission (Tuesdays at 7pm)
Park Advisory Commission (3rd Tuesday of each month at 4pm)