Post Oil Solutions

1 August 07

Meeting Summary

 

Present Chandra, George, Jacobee, Jane, Slug, Walter

Announcements

  • On Tues., Aug. 7th, at 12 noon, a demonstration against police brutality -- in response to the recent use of Tasers on Slug and Sam -- will take place in front of the Wells Fountain. Citizens are encouraged to speak on that issue, and address the importance of conserving open space, at the Selectboard meeting at 6:15 pm that evening. The Selectboard meeting room is on the 2nd floor of the Municipal Bldg.
  • The next POS monthly forum is on "Community Supported Renewable Energy," keynoted by Greg Pahl (author of The Citizen-Powered Energy Handbook), with a panel of representatives from VPIRG, the Brattleboro District Energy Project, the Marlboro wind project, and the Putney Energy Group. It’s scheduled for Wed., Sept. 19, 7 pm., in Rm 2E, Marlboro College Grad Center. There will be no forum in August.
  • A mini Democracy School will be held Sat., Oct. 13, 9:30 am-1 pm, at Brattleboro Savings & Loan, with Steve Kowal and Ellen Hayes.
  • The 4th Annual U.S. Conference on Peak Oil & Community Solutions -- "Planning for Hard Times" -- will take place Oct. 26-28th in Yellow Springs, OH. Contact Sherry and Tim to coordinate transportation.

 

Discussion

Food Sustainability Coordinator

It was agreed that a Case Foundation grant, previously brought to our attention by Tim, should be pursued to fund the position of food sustainability coordinator. The consensus was that Cindy Hellmann, who’s expressed interest in the position, would be an exceptional candidate, but that the POS membership should be notified to give others the opportunity to respond. It was noted that the grantor specifies application by an individual rather than a group (though that person could be affiliated with a group), so the potential coordinator should complete the application process. Jane will contact Cindy and Tim regarding the initial process of application, and about publicizing the position.

POS Forums

Walter suggested a forum on alternative community-based living arrangements, with representatives from various community models. Three possibilities mentioned were Bazin Farm, the Sirius community, and Pioneer Valley Cohousing. Chandra proposed a forum with John Seed, and offered two of her films for showing at a future program.

Social Gatherings

The Common Ground was mentioned as a possible venue for an informal POS get-together in the fall. Jane will find out if the restaurant has a "discount" night.

New Project Idea

Jacobee has started investigating local bike trails, with the intention of helping folks avoid paved roads when possible. A comprehensive map of such routes might be a valuable public service.

Treasurer’s report

POS account: $3,930.17

Next Meeting

Wed., Sept. 5th

7 pm

Rm 211 (2nd floor conference room)

Paramount Bldg.

167 Main St., Brattleboro