The Commission took the following actions at the Executive Committee Meeting on September 20, 2012: 

Workshop Items:

Mr. James Clary, HRPDC Economist, provided the first in a series of analyses of energy development strategies in Hampton Roads, citing a 70% increase in global energy consumption in the past 30 years.  Other points of note:

• The U.S. ranks 17th in worldwide energy consumption
• The U.S. energy mix is not projected to change significantly through 2035

Future analysis will include a discussion of existing regional energy assets, their near term outlook and development potential of new regional assets.

Ms. Lisa Hardy, Environmental Planner, provided an overview of the final report for the regional Great American Cleanup events held in the spring.  1,781 volunteers at 92 sites collected 124,862 pounds of litter and debris, as well as an additional 515 pounds of household hazardous waste.  Landscaping, community improvements, tree plantings, plastic bag recycling and invasive species removal are examples of other projects completed as a part of this region-wide event.

Mr. John Carlock, Deputy Executive Director, provided an overview of the HRPDC Annual Report to the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development.  This report is a requirement of our annual funding from the state and details a variety of on-going duties and responsibilities carried out by HRPDC staff under the Regional Cooperation Act. 

Public Comments:

Mr. Ellis W. James of Norfolk urged members to express support for the continued moratorium on uranium mining in Virginia.

Mr. Mark Geduldig-Yatrofsky, Portsmouth resident, expressed his concerns about the proposed uranium mining project and urged Commissioners to support keeping the current moratorium.

Minutes:  The minutes of the July 19, 2012 HRPDC Quarterly Commission Meeting were approved as part of the consent agenda.

Treasurer’s Report: Approved as part of the consent agenda.

Regional Reviews:  Approved as part of the consent agenda.

Other items approved under the Consent Agenda:

• Great American Cleanup – Final Report
• Redevelopment As a Nutrient Reduction Strategy – Final Report
• FY 2011-2012 Annual Report to DHCD
• Contract—Urban Area Security Initiative Contract Amendment for WebEOC Sustainment
• State Homeland Security Grant Acceptance/Contract Amendment
• Resolution and Certifications for FY 2011 UASI Grant Applications
• Contract—Town of Windsor Comprehensive Plan
• Contract – MOU with OHSVA – THIRA

The Uranium Mining Resolution, urging maintenance of the moratorium on uranium mining was pulled from the Consent Agenda for Commission Discussion.  The Resolution was reviewed and approved.

The Nominating Committee was appointed and tasked with developing a slate of officers for next year.