HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda - 11-12-20; ITEM 7 - Commission for the Environment – Appointment Discussion 1
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: November 12, 2020
Action Agenda
Item No. 7
SUBJECT: Commission for the Environment— Appointment Discussion
DEPARTMENT: Board of Commissioners
ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT:
Membership Roster Clerk's Office, 919-245-2130
Recommendation for BOCC Selection
Applications for Persons Recommended
Attendance Record
Applicant Interest List
Applications of Persons on the Interest List
PURPOSE: To discuss appointments to the Commission for the Environment.
BACKGROUND: The following appointment information is for Board consideration:
NAME SPECIAL TYPE OF EXPIRATION
REPRESENTATIVE APPOINTMENT DATE
TERM
Kim Livingston At-Large First Full Term 12/31/2023
(formerly Land (re-appointment)
Resources
Kim Piracci At-Large Second Full Term 12/31/2023
(re-appointment)
Jeremy At-Large Second Full Term 12/31/2023
Marzuola re-appointment
NOTE - If the individual listed above is appointed, the following vacancies remain:
POSITION EXPIRATION VACANCY INFORMATION
DESIGNATION DATE
At-Large 12/31/2021 This position has been vacant since
12/1812019.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: None
SOCIAL JUSTICE IMPACT: Enable Full Civic Participation. Ensure that Orange County
residents are able to engage government through voting and volunteering by eliminating
disparities in participation and barriers to participation.
2
RESULTANT IMPACT ON NATURAL RESOURCES AND AIR QUALITY: Assess and where
possible mitigate adverse impacts created o the natural resources of the site and adjoining area.
Minimize production of greenhouse gases.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board discuss appointments to
the Commission for the Environment.
3
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Commission for the Environment
Meeting Times: 7:30 pm second Monday of each month Contact Person:Wesley Poole,Chris Himi,David Stancil
Meeting Place: Chapel Hill/Hillsborough Alternating Contact Phone: 919-245-2522
Positions: 15 Length:3 years Terms: 2
Description: All members are appointed by the Board of Commissioners. This commission advises the Board of Commissioners on
matters affecting the environment with particular emphasis on protection. It educates public and local officials on
environmental issues and performs special studies and projects. It also recommends environmental initiatives and study
changes in environmental science and local and federal regulations.
Ms Jody Eimers
1 First Appointed: 02/06/2018
Gender Identity: Female Township: Eno Current Appointment: 02/06/2018
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2020
Age Range: Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1
Dr. Francis Binkowski
2 First Appointed: 03/10/2020
Gender Identity: Male Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 03/10/2020
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2022
Age Range: 60+ Special Repr: Air Quality Number of Terms: 1
Mrs. Kim Livingston
3 First Appointed: 03/10/2020
Gender Identity: Female Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 03/10/2020
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2020
Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: At-Large-Formerly Land Resources Number of Terms:
Dr Bill Ward
4 First Appointed: 11/02/2017
Gender Identity: Male Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 03/10/2020
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2022
Age Range: Special Repr: Biological Resources Number of Terms: 2
Ms Elizabeth McWhorter
5 First Appointed: 03/10/2020
Gender Identity: Female Township: Little River Current Appointment: 03/10/2020
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2021
Age Range: Special Repr: Water Resources Number of Terms:
K. Alan Parry
6 First Appointed: 12/13/2016
Gender Identity: Male Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 03/10/2020
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2022
Age Range: Special Repr: At-Large Number of Terms: 2
Wednesday,October 28,2020 Page 1
4
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Commission for the Environment
Meeting Times: 7:30 pm second Monday of each month Contact Person:Wesley Poole,Chris Himi,David Stancil
Meeting Place: Chapel Hill/Hillsborough Alternating Contact Phone: 919-245-2522
Positions: 15 Length:3 years Terms: 2
Ms Jaya Nair
7 First Appointed: 03/10/2020
Gender Identity: Female Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 03/10/2020
Ethnic Background: Asian American Resid/Spec Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2022
Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1
Carrie Fletcher
8 First Appointed: 05/01/2018
Gender Identity: Female Township: Bingham Current Appointment: 03/10/2020
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2022
Age Range: Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1
Kim Piracci
9 First Appointed: 12/04/2017
Gender Identity: Female Township: Eno Current Appointment: 12/04/2017
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2020
Age Range: Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1
Laura Doherty
10 First Appointed: 02/06/2018
Gender Identity: Female Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 02/06/2018
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2020
Age Range: Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1
Jeremy Marzuola
11 Vice-Chair First Appointed: 12/13/2016
Gender Identity: Male Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 12/04/2017
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2020
Age Range: Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1
Mr. James Eichel
12 First Appointed: 05/01/2018
Gender Identity: Male Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 12/18/2018
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2021
Age Range: Special Repr: Engineering Number of Terms: 1
Wednesday,October 28,2020 Page 2
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Commission for the Environment
Meeting Times: 7:30 pm second Monday of each month Contact Person:Wesley Poole,Chris Himi,David Stancil
Meeting Place: Chapel Hill/Hillsborough Alternating Contact Phone: 919-245-2522
Positions: 15 Length:3 years Terms: 2
VACANT
13 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Resid/Spec Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2021
Age Range: Special Repr: Number of Terms:
Lynne Gronback
14 First Appointed: 03/17/2015
Gender Identity: Female Township: Bingham Current Appointment: 12/18/2018
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2021
Age Range: Special Repr: At-Large Number of Terms: 2
Bradley Saul
15 Chair First Appointed: 10/03/2017
Gender Identity: Male Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 12/18/2018
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2021
Age Range: Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1
Wednesday,October 28,2020 Page 3
6
ORANGE COUNTY
04ft
Department of Environment,
Agriculture,Parks&Recreation
October 28, 2020
Commissioner Rich
200 South Cameron Street
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Dear Commissioner Rich:
Five members of the Commission for the Environment (CFE) have terms that will
expire on December 31, 2020. Three of the five members have expressed interest in
being reappointed; they are Kim Livingston, Kim Piracci and Jeremy Marzuola.
Each of them have acceptable attendance records and provide valuable insight to the
board, so CFE staff would like to recommend each of them for reappointment to another
term. The fourth and fifth members, Jody Eimers and Laura Doherty, will not be
able to serve second terms with the CFE, but plan to finish out their existing terms.
Once these three members are re-appointed and Jody Eimers alongside Laura Doherty
exit at the close of 2020, three vacancies will exist; all three for At-Large positions.
Joint recruitment efforts by the CFE and the Clerk's office will begin in order to fill
these positions with qualified applicants.
Sincerely,
5 �j
Bradley Saul
Chair, Commission for the Environment
NATURAL and CULTURAL RESOURCES DIVISION
Orange County Department of Environment, Agriculture, Parks & Recreation
PO Box 8181, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Phone: (919) 245-2510 Fax: (919) 644-3351
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Page 1 of 2 Kim Livingston
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Mrs. Kim Livingston
Name Called:
Home Address: 526 Caswell Rd
Chapel Hill NC 27514
Phone: 919-866-2334
Email: kimberly.shumate@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2013
Township of Residence:
Zone of Residence:
Gender Identity: Female
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
I am an employee and active member of the Eno River Association as well as a board
member of the NC Invasive Plant Council. I am on the conservation committee of the NC
Botanical Gardens Foundation as well as a steering committee member and policy
committee member of the Eno-New Hope Conservation Collaborative.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
I was formerly a staff support for the Commission for the Environment.
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Commission for the Environment
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I have a Master of Science in Natural Resource Management with a technical focus in
Ecological Restoration. My carreer for the last 10 years has focused on land conservation and
management in the NC triangle. I am the former Orange County Land Conservation Manager
and the am currently the Director of Conservation and Stewardship for the Eno River
Association. My background is relevant to this board because it brings a strong land
conservation and management prespective on issues facing Orange County.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I want to see a continued focus on land conservation and sound environmental management in
Orange County.
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
From my knowledge of this group, I know that most serving are most knowledgable about air
and energy and that a land perspective is needed.
Conflict of Interest:
I do work for the Eno River Association and we often partner with Orange County on
conservation land acquisitions, but given that this board does not make those recommendations
to the BOCC, I do not see a conflict of interest.
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Page 2 of 2 Kim Livingston
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 1/27/2020 9:56:40 AM Date Printed: 1/28/2020
9
Page 1 of 2 Kim Piracci
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Kim Piracci
Name Called:
Home Address: 101 Flamingo Rd.
Durham NC 27705
Phone (Day): 919-260-3686
Phone (Evening): 919-260-3686
Phone (Cell): 919-260-3686
Email: piraccik@gmai.com
Place of Employment: Kim Piracci, GG Jewelry Appraiser
Job Title: Owner, Certified Senior Jewelry Appraiser
Year of OC Residence: 1996
Township of Residence: Eno
Zone of Residence: County
Sex: Female
Ethnic Background: white
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Orange County Planning Board member, The Climate Reality Project: Trained Climate
Reality Leader and Speaker NCWarn: member and volunteer The Sierra Club: member
and volunteer 350.org: member and volunteer Eno Precinct: secretary North Carolina and
Orange County Progressive Democrats:member and volunteer
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
Orange County Planning Board
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Commission for the Environment
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I have a BS in Family Services from Plattsburgh State University, Magna Cum Laude. The
degree required all of the basic sciences, so I have a fundamental understanding of chemistry,
biology and trigonometry. I later earned a Graduate Gemologist Diploma from the Gemological
Institute of America. I have a firm understanding of rocks and minerals. I currently own my own
business working as a an independent jewelry appraiser. Understanding all of the many
gemstones, how to identify them and grade them, requires constant research and education. I
have a pretty good foundation in research, especially filtering out the good and useful from the
rediculous, on the internet. All of these skills combined make me a good candidate for the
Commission for the Environment.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I am extremely concerned about pollution, climate change and climate justice. They may seem
like three different issues but they are not. One can not be considered without an understanding
of how the other two issues are impacted. Pollution creation contributes to climate change at
some level. They are all connected. I find that I want to have a voice in these issues that I care
so deeply about. I am finished waiting for our federal government to take care of these
problems. They are going to be solved at the local level. This is where 350.org, the Sierra Club
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Page 2 of 2 Kim Piracci
and NCWarn are giving their focus. If every locality takes the responsibility of moving to clean
technologies, we can reduce pollution, limit climate change, and improve the economy for every
person. I want to help advocate for and if possible, implement these changes. For our country, it
s going to happen at the grass roots level and that means me.
Conflict of Interest:
No. I am unable to think of any possible confict of interest.
Supplemental Questions:
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Orange County Planning Board (REQUIRES DISCLOSURE STATEMENT)
Application Date: 2/11/2014
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
Conflict of Interest:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 10/30/2017 Date Printed: 10/30/2017
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Page 1 of 2 Jeremy Marzuola
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Jeremy Marzuola
Name Called:
Home Address: 705 W. Main St., Unit D
Carrboro NC 27510
Phone (Day): 510-435-9685
Phone (Evening): 510-435-9685
Phone (Cell): 510-435-9685
Email: jlmarzuola@gmail.com
Place of Employment: jlmarzuola@gmail.com
Job Title: Associate Professor of Mathematics at UNC Chape
Year of OC Residence: 2010
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
Zone of Residence:
Sex: Male
Ethnic Background: Caucasian
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Donor and previous volunteer for Table in Carrboro, previously volunteered for Habitat for
Humanity, Member of Professional Organizations AMS and SIAM for Mathematicians and
Applied Mathematicians
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
N/A
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Commission for the Environment
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
As a professional mathematician I have experience in data analysis and modeling. Also, I
collaborate with the head of the Mathematical Sciences Climate Network at UNC. Otherwise, I
hope to learn quickly more and more about what we can do locally to propose helpful
environmental policies and programs in a governmental setting.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I am generally interested in learning what one can do to engage the community at the local level
and how acting locally can be used to make progress in working to protect the environment
moving forward.
Conflict of Interest:
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Page 2 of 2 Jeremy Marzuola
Orange Unified Transportation Board
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
As a professional mathematician I have experience in data analysis and modeling. Otherwise, I
believe strongly in the vision of public transport for the Triangle and hope to learn quickly more
about what we can do locally to propose useful policies that will possibly assist in reducing
emissions coming from Orange County citizens.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I feel it is an important time to look at what local communities can do to protect the environment
and provide basic access to services for their citizens.
Conflict of Interest:
Supplemental Questions:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 11/13/2016 2:49:21 PM Date Printed: 11/22/2016
13
BOCC Attendance Report For Advisory Board Appointments
Commission for the Environment Sep 2019 — Sep 2020
Member Appointed Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep
Kim Livingston 03/10/2020 --- --- --- --- --- --- --- N A N A N A N/A N/A P
Kim Piracci 12/04/2017 P NA P P P P E N A N A N A N A N A P
Jeremy Marzuola 12/13/2016 E N/A-- E E P P P N A N A N A —N—TA— N A P
P:Present E:Excused A:Absent N/A: No Meeting
Current through —September 30,2020
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Applicant Interest Listing by Board Name and by Applicant Name
Contact Person: Wesley Poole,Chris Hirni,Davi
Commission for the Environment Contact Phone: 919-245-2522
David Gange
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 12/06/2018
Ethnic Background: White Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range Res.Eligibility: Carrboro City Limits
Also Serves On:
Dr Ulrich Hartmond
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 01/18/2020
Ethnic Background: White Township: Eno
Age Range 35-59 Res.Eligibility: County
Also Serves On:
Lauri Langham
Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 08/22/2019
Ethnic Background: White Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range Res.Eligibility: C.H.City Limits
Also Serves On:
Erik Lensch
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 01/03/2020
Ethnic Background: White Township: Bingham
Age Range 35-59 Res.Eligibility: County
Also Serves On:
Dr. Kristie Mather
Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 12/30/2019
Ethnic Background: White Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range 35-59 Res.Eligibility: C.H.City Limits
Also Serves On:
Mr Taylor Oakley
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 02/27/2020
Ethnic Background: White Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range 18-34 Res.Eligibility: Carrboro City Limits
Also Serves On:
Wednesday,October 28,2020 Page 1 of 2
15
Applicant Interest Listing by Board Name and by Applicant Name
Contact Person: Wesley Poole,Chris Hirni,Davi
Commission for the Environment Contact Phone: 919-245-2522
Mr. Frank Princiotta
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 12/30/2019
Ethnic Background: White Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range 60+ Res.Eligibility: County
Also Serves On:
Dr Charley Rowe
Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 05/01/2019
Ethnic Background: White Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range Res.Eligibility: C.H.City Limits
Also Serves On:
Eric Scheier
Gender Identity: Other Date Applied: 03/20/2020
Ethnic Background: Other Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range 18-34 Res.Eligibility: Carrboro City Limits
Also Serves On:
David Singer
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 02/03/2020
Ethnic Background: White Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range 35-59 Res.Eligibility: County
Also Serves On:
Wednesday,October 28,2020 Page 2 of 2
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Page 1 of 1 David Gange
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: David Gange
Name Called:
Home Address: 8116 Reynard Rd.
Chapel Hill NC 27516
Phone (Day): 9199132681
Phone (Evening): 4046978282
Phone (Cell): 4046978282
Email: d.a.gange@gmail.com
Place of Employment: Lord Aeck Sargent
Job Title: Project Architect
Year of OC Residence: 2014
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
Zone of Residence: Carrboro City Limits
Sex: Male
Ethnic Background: white
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
former member Chapel Hill Community Design Commission
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
none
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Commission for the Environment
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
Working professionally as an architect in Chapel Hill. In practice, i strive to design and construct
responsible and sustainable environments.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
As a member of the building industry, I am cognizant of the need to protect natural lands and
encouraged smart, sustainable development and growth.
Conflict of Interest:
Supplemental Questions:
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 12/6/2018 Date Printed: 12/6/2018
17
Page 1 of 2 Ulrich Hartmond
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Dr Ulrich Hartmond
Name Called:
Home Address: 1001 Deas Drive
Durham NC 27705
Phone: 9193823465
Email: uhartmond@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2001
Township of Residence: Eno
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
no active community activity
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
Commission for the Environment
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Commission for the Environment
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
As former researcher in agriculture and plant physiology, I have been the director of the Butterfly
House at the Museum of Life and Science in Durham since 2002. Environmental and
conservation issues are part of our message and mission in my daily work- not only with respect
to the tropical regions we highlight and source our butterflies from for my exhibit.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
Conservation, waste and energy reduction and recycling has been a longstanding passion of
mine and a theme in my personal household and at my workplace. Living next to and supporting
the Eno River State Park, I want to contribute to my county s efforts to preserve our environment
and very carefully plan any land development.
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
I have a fairly wide variety of experiences with respect to natural sciences, education and
management that I would hope can add to the commission s expertise. Having lived and worked
abroad also may give some added perspectives.
Conflict of Interest:
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 1/18/2020 2:40:38 PM Date Printed: 1/21/2020
18
Page 2 of 2 Ulrich Hartmond
19
Page 1 of 2 Lauri Langham
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Lauri Langham
Name Called:
Home Address: 5320 Cascade Drive
Chapel Hill NC 27514
Phone (Day): 919-971-2059
Phone (Evening): 919-971-2059
Phone (Cell): 919-971-2059
Email: laurilangham@gmail.com
Place of Employment: Retired
Job Title: Clinical Social Worker
Year of OC Residence: 1968
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
Zone of Residence: C.H. City Limits
Sex: Female
Ethnic Background: white
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Red Cross volunteer, volunteer w/ Lutheran Family Service Refugee Re-Settlement,
volunteer w/ Duke Gardens Native Plants collection, volunteer with Freedom House Pro-
Bono counseling program.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None.
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Commission for the Environment
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
Although my professional background as a clinical social worker did not directly prepare me in
environmental science,) am experienced in working on boards and with small groups to manage
business at hand and help make recommendations. I take my responsibilities seriously and
would do the background work to understand the issues, attend meetings regularly and support
the decision-making process of the Commission s work.
Since I retired four years ago, environmental awareness and activities has been a main focus of
interest for me. I garden and frequently walk through the many trail,parks and neighborhoods in
Orange County. I have taken a number of courses,through being a volunteer at Duke
gardens,on topics such as botany,tree and flower cultivation,gardening and garden design.) have
attended speakers and lectures on topics relating to the environment whenever I can. I have an
interest in sustainable development and follow issues pertaining to land and water use, use of
renewable resources and urban development.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I would like to be able to serve the county by helping review and making recommendations that
best protect and enhance our environment, while balancing such needs as housing and retail
development. I see preserving the beauty and health of our environment as being one of the
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Page 2 of 2 Lauri Langham
most important issues that we face as a community. I recognize that I have a great deal to
learn about how the Commission for the Environment functions,however I am enthusiastic and
exA«:tteA-d about the possibility of being able to on the Commission.
Conflict of Interest:
Supplemental Questions:
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 8/22/2019 Date Printed: 8/22/2019
21
Page 1 of 2 Erik Lensch
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Erik Lensch
Name Called:
Home Address: 8591 Pickards Meadow Rd.
Chapel Hill NC 27516
Phone: 9196368320
Email: erik.lensch@leyline-energy.com
Year of OC Residence: 2011
Township of Residence: Bingham
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: white
Age Range: 35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
UNC Board of Visitors
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None, this would be my first Orange County volunteer role
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Commission for the Environment
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I have owned a solar energy construction, development and financing business for 13 years. My
current company provides capital and development services for solar, biogas, battery storage,
and other renewable and sustainable infrastructure projects. I am an active member of the NC
Sustainable Energy Assoc and the Renewable Natural Gas Coalition.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I have dedicated the last 13 years of my life to helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions by
accelerating the adoption of solar energy through multiple renewable energy businesses. My
family and I live in a solar-powered, energy efficient home in rural Orange County and I want to
give back to my local community. I want to use my business and personal experience, and my
passion for a cleaner environment, to help improve the lives of those living in and around the
county that I love and call home.
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
I have been actively developing, building, and financing solar and biogas projects since 2007. 1
founded Leyline in 2017 to focus on providing capital for renewable energy projects at the most
critical time—during a project's development. Because we come in and provide much needed
funding in the early stages of a project I am in a unique position to see a lot of different types of
commercially viable technologies and solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (solar,
biogas, CO2 capture/sequestration, battery storage, small hydroelectric, fuels cells, and waste to
value projects, to name a few).
I would contribute to the diversity of viewpoints by bringing a perspective that is focused on
understanding the types of projects and solutions that work today, are financeable, and are
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Page 2 of 2 Erik Lensch
being deployed at a rapid pace to reduce our carbon footprint. I see project opportunities in CA,
the Midwest, Pacific Northwest, the northeast and south, as well as Canada and western
Europe. So I would bring a national and international perspective, what is being done in other
communities around the US. I bring a project financing point of view—what cannot get financed
won't get built, and what won't get built won't help us slow down global warming.
I am passionate about reducing our carbon footprint and my company only finances projects that
seek to achieve this goal. My dad had a solar energy business back in the late seventies and
early 80's. I like to say that he was 30 years ahead of his time, and we don't have the luxury of
waiting another 30 years to create lasting, positive change.
Conflict of Interest:
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 1/3/2020 Date Printed: 1/3/2020
23
Page 1 of 2 Kristie Mather
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Dr. Kristie Mather
Name Called:
Home Address: 709 Emory Dr.
Chapel Hill NC 27517
Phone: 919-225-1818
Email: mather.kristie@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2014
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
Zone of Residence: C.H. City Limits
Gender Identity: Female
Ethnic Background: white
Age Range: 35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
CHCCS Glenwood Elementary Mandarin Advisory Council, co-chair
CHCCS Equity Advisory Committee, Academic Achievement sub-committee
MomsRising NC Toxics campaign manager
NEXT Chapel Hill/Carrboro
Sierra Club
ERUUF Earth Justice Action Team
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Orange County Climate Council
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
Since a 9th grade biology class where we covered global warming, I ve been concerned that
climate change is the crisis the world is facing. I pursued a career path in evolutionary genetics
and have a solid education and rigorous training in a particularly math and data-heavy field of
biology, along with deep thinking, research and written communication. Throughout, I maintained
a strong interest in environmental and especially climate change issues. I gravitated towards
educating myself about what I could do in my personal life. I figured I d leave the structural
change to those who were in government and my influence would be through my own actions,
personal interactions and my vote. Being a bit geeky, I kept reading and educating myself about
the structural change. I became increasingly concerned that change wasn t happening fast
enough or to a sufficient degree, but felt I couldn t actually do anything at a higher level, because
I wasn t trained in politics or environmental science. Since moving to Chapel Hill about five years
ago, I started paying attention to local politics and have revised my opinion. I think that even
without formal training in environmental science, there s a role I can play in change that is bigger
than personal choices. Additionally, I ve done a little writing on toxins for the Duke Superfund
Center and been active in actions at my UU congregation to make environmental concerns,
especially climate change, a bigger focus.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
24
Page 2 of 2 Kristie Mather
I want to do more to slow climate change and start adaptation plans than is possible at a
personal level. We haven t done enough, and I think we ve got to have more folks working on
climate change. The Climate Council seems a place where action can happen at a local level
and I think I can be a valuable contributor. Local development and growth is a major piece -
positive or negative -of how we can lessen climate change while understanding that some
change is now inevitable and adaptation has to be part of the game. I can bring a combination of
passion and analytical thinking to the council.
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
I bring the perspective of a parent. I am Caucasian, but have been increasingly concerned with
environmental justice and the fact that people who have traditionally been disadvantaged also
tend to be impacted first and more severely by the climate crisis.
Conflict of Interest:
Commission for the Environment
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
As long as I can remember I ve been developing a consciousness that the current American
culture with an inclination towards disposability and convenience above all else is inconsistent
with a planet that is a comfortable place for humans and many other living creatures. I pursued a
career path in evolutionary genetics and have a solid education and rigorous training in a
particularly math and data-heavy field of biology, along with deep thinking, research and written
communication. Throughout, I maintained a strong interest in environmental issues. I gravitated
towards educating myself about what I could do in my personal life. I figured I d leave the
structural change to those who were in government and my influence would be through my own
actions, personal interactions and my vote. Being a bit geeky, I kept reading and educating
myself about the structural change. I became increasingly concerned about the many areas in
which humans are still acting more destructively than constructively, but felt I couldn t actually do
anything at a higher level, because I wasn t trained in politics or environmental science. Since
moving to Chapel Hill about 5 years ago, I started paying attention to local politics and have
revised my opinion. I think that even without formal training in environmental science, there s a
role I can play in change that is bigger than personal actions.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I m concerned about the choices that our communities are making that are at odds with
sustainability and environmental health. My personal choices aren t going to be enough and I
want to ensure that our community makes structural choices that are sustainable and protect the
sort of environment that is healthy for humans and other living creatures. I think I can be a
valuable contributor. I can bring a combination of passion and analytical thinking to the
committee.
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
I bring the perspective of a parent. I am Caucasian, but have been increasingly concerned with
environmental justice and the fact that people who have traditionally been disadvantaged also
tend to be impacted first and more severely by the climate crisis.
Conflict of Interest:
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 12/30/2019 Date Printed: 12/31/2019
25
Page 1 of 2 Taylor Oakley
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Mr Taylor Oakley
Name Called:
Home Address: 133 Circadian Way
Chapel Hill NC 27516
Phone: 9192590252
Email: readeoakley@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2009
Township of Residence:
Zone of Residence:
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 18-34
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Small farmer
Coach at local school
Carolina Farm Stewardship Association
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
I have not yet served on any boards
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Commission for the Environment
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I participated in a Capstone project via UNC Chapel Hill in undergrad which included energy
policy, life cycle assessment as well as statistical modeling of relevant data. I have worked as a
sustainable farmer and builder. I studied and continue to study sustainable practices across
multiple disciplines.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I would like to bring my perspective and knowledge as well as become involved in the local
policy of orange county, even if in a small way. I also look forward to the chance to learn through
others.
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
I do not know the demographic and knowledge base the currently is on the board. I am a farmer
which might differ. I m 28 which also might be a different.
Conflict of Interest:
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
26
Page 2 of 2 Taylor Oakley
This application was current on: 2/27/2020 5:37:31 PM Date Printed: 2/28/2020
27
Page 1 of 2 Frank Princiotta
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Mr. Frank Princiotta
Name Called:
Home Address: 100 Longwood Drive
Chapel Hill NC 27514
Phone: 919-408-0796
Email: fprinciotta@msn.com
Year of OC Residence: 1980
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: white
Age Range: 60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Part time Instructor at Duke Osher Lifetime Learning Institute focusing on climate change,
give presentations on the climate change challenge at retirement centers, technical
societies, NC Science Museum
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Commission for the Environment
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
A chemical and nuclear engineer who retired as a Senior Executive at the US Environmental
Protection Agency with expertise in global climate change mitigation and air pollution control.
See my recent climate change paper https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/mrs-energy-and-
sustainability/article/we-are-losing-the-climate-change-mitigation-challenge-is-it-too-late-to-
recover/7EABEBD608FC3C651 FE75931 1319E7157/core-reader
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I wish to assist the county in moving toward a low carbon future
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
-1 have studied the global climate challenge in depth, read my paper:
https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/mrs-energy-and-sustainability/article/we-are-losing-the-
climate-change-mitigation-challenge-is-it-too-late-to-
recover/7EABEBD608FC3C651 FE75931 B19E7157/core-reader)
I have concluded the following:
-The climate challenge is daunting and will require all the countries of the world to drastically
educe emissions of Greenhouse Gases (GHGs)within the next 5-10 years.
-If we don't, the impacts in mid and especially later this century will be severe. Violent weather,
droughts, flooding are key impacts that Orange County will have to deal with.
-It should be remembered that current U.S. emissions are only about 16% of the global total and
Orange county's under 0.2 % of the global total.
28
Page 2 of 2 Frank Princiotta
-Note that not just CO2 but methane and nitrous oxide emissions need to be reduced
dramatically as well; this is not possible without fundamental changes in our meat-based diets.
So if appointed to the board I will argue that preparing for what are likely to be serious climate
impacts should be a top priority, also known as adaptation. Of course we need make decisions
at the county and household levels to reduce our GHG footprint. We also need to encourage
Electric Utilities to decarbonize their power generation systems as soon as possible. I am well
versed on these issues as well.
Let me know if additional information would be helpful.
Conflict of Interest:
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 12/30/2019 Date Printed: 12/31/2019
29
Page 1 of 2 Charley Rowe
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Dr Charley Rowe
Name Called:
Home Address: 117 Purefoy #4
Chapel Hill NC 27514
Phone (Day): 9194917409
Phone (Evening): 9194917409
Phone (Cell): 9194917409
Email: charleyrowe2004@yahoo.co.uk
Place of Employment: UNC
Job Title: Visiting Assistant Professor
Year of OC Residence: 1980
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
Zone of Residence: C.H. City Limits
Sex: Female
Ethnic Background: white
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
I drive for a visually impaired person. I work with Prison Books Collective.
Community gardening (occasional).
Driving visually-impaired.
Various local cycling advcate groups.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None so far.
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Board of Health
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I was content developer for a UNC course called Computing in Medical Care . Much of my
research was on public health matters and resources. Much of my time I spent working on
reading and reviewing content carefully(including medical literature,journal resources, medical
knowledge bases, and public health listservs), and delivering the content and relevant
information to the course administrator and enrollees.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I have a concern for public health, and have many ideas on implementing ideas toward many or
most of the concerns listed under D in the Policy document. I am a concerned and vocal
advocate citizen, and have been throughout my residence in Orange County.
Conflict of Interest:
30
Page 2 of 2 Charley Rowe
Commission for the Environment
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I have experience and background as Green Representative as a faculty member at a university
where I previously taught. Otherwise, relevant education and background are that I have an
advanced degree (PhD), which I hope will support my candidacy.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I have a strong concern for the environment, and see this area as a place where I would see a
particular consciousness for this issue. But there is much to be done here, so I hope to help put
forward ideas and strategies--in terms of outreach in all cases, and policy or incentives where
possible--that would be supportive of the environment.
Conflict of Interest:
I am happy to report that I have no conflicts of interest.
Supplemental Questions:
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Application Date: 8/9/2017
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I have committee experience as an academic in university settings. I also have training in
conflict resolution (via works hops),which I feel is beneficial potentially.
I have a PhD, have served on several committees, and have some background second-hand
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I believe that animal and animal control issues are of high priority here, including the idea of no-
kill shelters, animal sponsoring and fostering and their outreach, creation of green spaces
usable for both animal-owners and non-animal owners, as well as
Conflict of Interest:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 5/1/2019 Date Printed: 5/1/2019
31
Page 1 of 2 Eric Scheier
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Eric Scheier
Name Called:
Home Address: 506 N Greensboro Street, Apt 39
Carrboro NC 27510-1776
Phone: 9194123602
Email: eric@scheier.org
Year of OC Residence: 2018
Township of Residence:
Zone of Residence:
Gender Identity: Non Binary
Ethnic Background: Other
Age Range: 18-34
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
At Large Member of Renewable Energy Special Projects Committee of UNC Chapel Hill
Student Government
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Commission for the Environment
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I have a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Economics from the University of
North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where I conducted peer-reviewed research on the impacts of
energy development on rural communities. Subsequently, I helped start a nationwide solar
development company in Washington D.C. before consulting independently on clean technology
startups around the world. Currently, I am pursuing a Master of Science degree from UNC-CH
through the same Environment, Ecology, and Energy Program from which I received my
undergraduate degree. My research focuses on the sustainability of renewable energy
development, including impacts on land and water use, greenhouse gas emissions, consumer
welfare, and economic growth. This expertise is particularly relevant to Orange County5ETMS
commitment to power its government operations with renewables and decrease its carbon
footprint, and my general background in environmental science allows me to understand the
interconnectedness of the environmental systems the Commission routinely advises on.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I value civic engagement and have spent my entire career developing expertise in order to make
a positive contribution to society. Through my role in Washington D.C. and subsequent
consulting engagements, I saw firsthand the positive and negative impacts of policy on matters
affecting the natural environment. My primary goal in serving on this board is to provide rational
guidance on complex issues relating to the natural environment so that my home and the world
at large will be a better place. I believe that I can add value to Orange CountyaETMS
commitment to transition to a 100% renewable energy based economy by 2050 by providing
informed advice about the costs and benefits of different paths toward achieving this goal.
32
Page 2 of 2 Eric Scheier
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
As someone who grew up in North Carolina and has been an Orange County resident multiple
times, I understand the local values and politics. As someone with a unique identity who has
traveled around the world and worked on projects that would not be possible in Orange County, I
can add a perspective unlikely to be shared by any other member of the board. As an expert on
environmental science and policy, I can speak the language required to articulate this
perspective in the context required for the Commission to be productive. I hope that this unique
combination will contribute to the diversity of viewpoints on the Commission.
Conflict of Interest:
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 3/20/2020 9:10:32 AM Date Printed: 3/26/2020
33
Page 1 of 2 David Singer
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: David Singer
Name Called:
Home Address: 8807 Galax Ct.
Chapel Hill NC 27516
Phone: 410-294-9035
Email: tdsinger@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2017
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: white
Age Range: 35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Youth sports coach (Baseball, Soccer, Basketball)
North Carolina Bar Association
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
N/A
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Board of Health
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I have experience as a health law attorney, having represented a hospital and healthcare
providers in private practice and in working as in-house counsel for a national home health
agency and a regional orthopedic care provider. I believe that this background and experience
has provided me with a unique perspective on the various forms healthcare delivery, and the
issues and challenges that local communities face. I hope to offer this experience to the Board
and the community.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I would like to be more active in the community and use my education and experience to help
address important healthcare issues and initiatives in my community.
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
Conflict of Interest:
34
Page 2 of 2 David Singer
Commission for the Environment
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I studied environmental law and served as an environmental attorney from 2005-2007. Toward
that end, issues impacting the environment and social responsibility have been an interest of
mine during my professional career. I am also an avid outdoorsman and spend as much time as
I can enjoying our environment.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I d like to use my experience and education to serve our community and work to strengthen the
environmental stewardship of the County.
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
I am fortunate in to have lived and worked as a practicing attorney throughout the eastern United
States in both urban and rural communities; having lived in Vermont, Western New York,
throughout the Washington D.C. and Baltimore, MD metro areas, and currently reside in Chapel
Hill. These experiences, I feel, give me a unique ability to appreciate the diversity of viewpoints
arising from the Chapel Hill community, particularly as they relate to differing viewpoints from
individuals and businesses with diverse racial, gender and socio-economic backgrounds.
Just as important as it is to bring a diversity of viewpoints, it is important to be able to understand
how differing viewpoints are formulated from community members and how these different
viewpoints can be analyzed before decisions are made or actions taken.
Toward that end, my experience as a litigation and regulatory attorney have provided me with
the tools to engage in civil discussion, critical thinking and thoughtful decision making by
reviewing and evaluating diverse viewpoints and, when necessary, amicably resolve disputes. I
was trained and practiced for many years as an Environmental Attorney and believe I can bring
a diversity of viewpoints on environmental conservation and stewardship that I have acquired
representing national and multi-national companies in a variety of environmental issues and
counseling those companies in environmental rules, laws and statutes. Topics such as water
conservation, urban development and land use management are areas of particular interest and
with which I have had exposure during my career. Currently, I work as a corporate attorney for a
174 year old international agriculture company with deep roots in North Carolina and as such, I
have a profound appreciation for the agriculture industry that serves as the backbone of North
Carolina's diverse heritage. This will enable me to truly appreciate a diversity of viewpoints on
many issues facing the North Carolina community.
Conflict of Interest:
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 2/3/2020 Date Printed: 2/3/2020