Burbank Sustainability Task Force

Sustainability is group's task: City advisory organization focuses on finding more efficient ways to do business.
Burbank Leader: September 10, 2010 by Gretchen Meier

Burbank may be able to cross a few items off its checklist as it works to become a more sustainable city before the end of the month.

The Burbank Sustainability Task Force has the opportunity to weigh in on upcoming City Council agenda items that coincide with the priorities outlined by officials in July.

"The task force's role and impact is evolving," said Public Works Director Bonnie Teaford. "It's a voice that hadn't been organized before in Burbank."

The task force, organized into six priority groups — sustainable design, urban heat island effect, transportation, energy, zero waste, strategic communications — is a city advisory group on issues relating to sustainability, as well as promoting policies, improvements and early input for projects.

The organization comprises nine members appointed by the council, including six residents and three others who do not have to be residents, but who must be involved in the business community and engaged in environmental issues, real estate or the development industry. They can also represent the faith-based or nonprofit community.

The additional six members represent a number of boards and city organizations, as well as two City Council members.

Johnny Carson Park development, implementation of the county's own sustainability program, closing gaps in the city's Bicycle Master Plan and fostering public involvement are all priorities the task force hopes to focus on this fiscal year. READ MORE !