Councilor Michael Kelly (D-Ward 2) put forth the idea, citing the need for communities to think green.

"I think most municipalities are doing something like this, and this is really a community-led effort," he said.

The committee will consist of Kelly and eight members of the community who volunteer to serve.

"It will serve as an advisory board for the Common Council and will try to come up with some green initiatives," Kelly said.

At an organizational meeting, 11 people showed up, with seven of them agreeing to serve on the committee. Kelly said two more are needed.

"We've identified a list of about three dozen items that we would like to address, and we will serve as a sounding board for the council," Kelly said.

"We are going to emphasize things that don't cost a lot of money and could actually wind up saving us some money."

Kelly said the committee will also seek grant funding for green projects.

While council approval to form the committee is not necessary, Kelly said it is important for the council and Mayor Donald Kasprzak to support the idea.

Councilor James Calnon (I-Ward 4) who serves as mayor pro tem, agrees.

"It is important that everybody in the country and world pay attention to the impact of the environmental decisions that are made, and I am encouraged that that effort is being made in the city by this committee.

"It is important that someone pay attention to the green aspects of city business so we can always consider them. They may not always be the overriding factor, but we need to consider them seriously."

jlotemplio@pressrepublican.com