The newly formed Sustainability Advisory Committee (SAC) in West Goshen Township was adopted ad hoc by the Board of Supervisors on August 18, 2020 and met for the first time on September 22, 2020. The SAC’s overall mission is to develop environmental, economic, and equitable sustainability initiatives through collaborative efforts between township departments and the broader West Goshen community. Serving in an advisory capacity to the Board of Supervisors, our immediate goals are to educate, advocate, and develop best management practices through education, community outreach, and strategic planning. The SAC comprises seven township residents appointed by the board, variously serving one- to three-year terms. They are: Melanie Vile, chair; Henry Alexander, vice chair; Dorothy Verdon, secretary; Natalie Caruso; Susan Charkes; Cynthia Sheik; and Tinamarie Smith. Supervisor Ashley Gagné is the board liaison.
This timely committee has prioritized several first-step initiatives, including, but not limited to the following:
- Establishing a community garden
- Transitioning municipal vehicle fleets to electric or hybrid technology
- Proposing a limited ban on single-use plastics
- Achieving Tree City status for West Goshen
- Instituting quarterly electronic curbside pick-up
- Working with developers to include renewable energy considerations
- Implementing community engagement strategies, and educational programs
The public is always welcome to participate and present concerns or opportunities to the committee for consideration. Upcoming winter and spring meetings are held virtually on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. The next meeting is on February 23, 2021; links for each meeting can be found on the township’s online calendar. Stay Tuned!