HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda - 04-08-2025; 7 - Commission for the Environment – Appointments Discussion 1
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: April 8, 2025
Action Agenda
Item No. 7
SUBJECT: Commission for the Environment — Appointments Discussion
DEPARTMENT: Board of Commissioners
ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT:
Recommendations Clerk's Office, 919-245-2130
Member and Applicant Summary Sheet
Applications of Persons Recommended
Applications of Other Applicants
Membership Roster
Applicant Interest List
Annual Work Plan
PURPOSE: To discuss appointments to the Commission for the Environment.
BACKGROUND: The Commission for the Environment advises the Board of Commissioners
on matters affecting the environment with particular emphasis on protection. It educates the
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.
The Board of County Commissioners appoints all fifteen (15) At-Large members.
The following individuals are recommended for Board consideration:
NAME POSITION TYPE OF EXPIRATION
DESCRIPTION APPOINTMENT DATE
TERM
Dr. Mayur At-Large Partial Term 12/31/2025
Lodaya
William At-Large Partial Term 12/31/2025
Branch
If the individuals listed above are appointed, the following vacancy remains:
POSITION EXPIRATION VACANCY INFORMATION
DESIGNATION DATE
At-Large 12/31/2027 Vacant since 09/09/2024
At-Large 12/31/2027 Vacant since 03/12/2025
2
FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with this item.
ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: There are no Orange County Strategic Plan Goals
applicable to this item.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board discuss appointments to
the Commission for the Environment.
3
ORANGE COUNTY
A
Department of Environment,
Agriculture,Parks&Recreation
March 14, 2025
Ms. Laura Jensen
Clerk to the Board of County Commissioners
300 West Tryon Street
P.O. Box 8181
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Dear Ms. Jensen:
The Commission for the Environment(CFE) currently has four vacancies on the board.
After reviewing the list of applicants,the CFE recommends the following individuals for
new appointments: Mayur Lodaya to position#4 and William Branch to position#7.
The CFE would benefit greatly from the background of these applicants and will
continue to search for qualified applicants to fill positions#12 and#15.
Sincerely,
Regina Baratta
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
4
Commission for the Environment Board Members and Applicants
Name Member or Applicant? Gender Identity Race/Ethnic Background Age Range Township Also Serves on
Kristie Mather Member Female White 35-59 Chapel Hill
Matthew Ferguson Member Male White 18-34 Bingham
Lily Schacht Member Female White 18-34 Chapel Hill
Patrick Fn'Piere Member Male African American 60+ Hillsborough
Taylor Oakley Member Male White 18-34 Chapel Hill
Mark Randall Member Male White 60+ Cedar Grove
John Bucher Member Male White 60+ Hillsborough
Veronica Beattie Member Female White 18-34 Hillsborough
Ian Morse Member Male White 35-59 Chapel Hill
Regina Baratta Member Female White 35-59 Hillsborough
Aimee Vandemark Member Female White 35-59 Hillsborough
VACANT
VACANT
VACANT
VACANT
William Branch Applicant Male White 60+ Bingham
Leto Copeley Applicant Female White 60+ Eno
Margot Lester Applicant Female White 60+ Chapel Hill
Mayur Lodaya Applicant Male Asian American 60+ Chapel Hill
Blake Tedderq Applicant Male White 35-59 Cedar Grove
James Wheeler Applicant Male White 35-59 Little River Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
5
Page 1 of 2 Mayur Lodaya
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Dr. Mayur Lodaya
Name Called:
Home Address: 118 Old Larkspur Way
Chapel Hill NC 27516-3413
Phone: 919-308-0468
Email: mayurplodaya@yahoo.com
Year of OC Residence: 2007
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
Zone of Residence: C.H. City Limits
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: Asian American
Age Range: 60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Active member of my religious organization
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Affordable Housing Advisory Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I have extensive background in diversity through my 35 years of work experience. As a
concerned citizen, i feel very comfortable in being able to contribute actively to the goals of this
board.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I believe strongly in providing life s basic necessities to every citizen of our nation irrespective of
why a fellow citizen finds himsel/herself in a situation where they need support of the community
to take good care of their own family. I would consider it an honor to be able to serve on this
board.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
Based on having seen the current membership of the board, i feel that i will add to the diversity in
the form of being of a different ethnic background. Also, having lived in 4 different states over the
past 38 years, i will be able to draw upon my life expereinces to further enrich the current board
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Commission for the Environment
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
6
Page 2 of 2 Mayur Lodaya
I am a scince graduate and did my PhD thesis on novel ways of treating waste water. While my
industrial expereince is varied, i have always had a very keen interest in understanding the
impact of our daily living on the environment and the simple ways in which we all can live in
harmony with the environment
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I strongly believe in leaving a good leagcy for our next generation by making required changes in
our daily life to gradually get to a point where we live in harmony with our environment and
reduce the use of fossil fuels. I would like to use my expertise in supporting these causes by
supporting projects that meet the requirement of making our environment better.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
While i don t know the educational background of others on the board, i feel that i do have a
requisite education and the personal drive to help the board in evaluating the projects and
proposals that would help in gradually making our environment better.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 12/27/2024 4:31:21 PM Date Printed: 12/30/2024
7
Page 1 of 1 William L. Branch
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: William L. Branch
Name Called:
Home Address: 5305 Rileys Ridge Rd.
Hillsborough NC 27278
Phone: 717-880-3060
Email: DoBiBranch@msn.com
Year of OC Residence: 2018
Township of Residence: Bingham
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
1 st vice chair Orange County Democratic Party
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Commission for the Environment
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
My education is in wildlife biology and I have 35 years of professional experience ( am now
retired) in recognizing, proposing, and collaborating with multiple Federal and State agencies to
provide solutions to environmental issues related to road construction and operation.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I continue to direct my efforts to provide a voice for important environmental issues.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
Practical experience is always useful.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 1/3/2025 6:47:00 PM Date Printed: 1/13/2025
8
Page 1 of 2 Leto Copeley
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Ms. Leto Copeley
Name Called:
Home Address: 100 Vireo Ln.
Hillsborough NC 27278
Phone: 919-606-8707
Email: Icopeley@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2003
Township of Residence: Eno
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Female
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Orange/Chatham District Bar, NC Bar Association, NC Advocates for Justice, NC
Association of Women Attorneys, National Crime Victim Bar Association (advisory board
member), Governor's Crime Commission (Commissioner appointed by the Governor).
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Orange County Board of Adjustment
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I have been a practicing litigation attorney for forty years, mostly representing individuals in
cases of negligence, interpersonal crime, and violation of civil rights. I have also worked as an
ombudsperson for a 20,000 member professional organization. Through this work I've
developed the ability to interpret statutes and regulations, apply the law to facts, and consider
multiple viewpoints in order to arrive at a just result.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I am fortunately in a position to be partially retired and seek to serve my local community as
opposed to the more state and national level organizations with which I have been involved.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
As a taxpayer who owns property in Eno Township, I talk with my neighbors (where in this semi-
rural neighborhood property values vary greatly) about land use, regulations, and the functioning
of county government. Those same topics came up during my five years of service in the
Hillsborough Rotary Club.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Orange Unified Transportation Board
9
Page 2 of 2 Leto Copeley
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I have been a practicing litigation attorney for forty years, mostly representing individuals in
cases of negligence, interpersonal crime, and violation of civil rights. I have also worked as an
ombudsperson for a 20,000 member professional organization. Through this work I've
developed the ability to interpret statutes and regulations, apply the law to facts, and consider
multiple viewpoints in order to arrive at a just result.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Through my work early on as a legal services attorney, my service on the board of Legal Aid of
North Carolina, and as a member of the Governor s Crime Commission (now in my second
term), I know firsthand that access to appropriate transportation is essential to safe and full
participation in society and I have a strong interest in the subject.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I'm good at reaching out to people, facilitating relationships, and listening to others. I work to
understand why people feel underserved or wrongly served by their local government.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Commission for the Environment
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I have been a practicing litigation attorney for forty years, mostly representing individuals in
cases of negligence, interpersonal crime, and violation of civil rights. I've also worked as an
ombudsperson and have experience in practical problem solving. Through my service on the
Governor s Crime Commission I have developed an ability to evaluate grant proposals.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I am a lifelong birder and also enjoy spending time hiking and walking on local trails and on other
managed properties. I have also come to understand that access to outdoor and green spaces
helps reduce crime and keep a community healthy.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
Having grown up in a blue-collar community and having worked as a lawyer for people from very
diverse backgrounds. I'm aware that access to green spaces is often, for various reasons,
limited for lower-income people and members of racial and ethnic minority groups, and for
women.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 1/13/2025 1:00:02 PM Date Printed: 1/13/2025
10
Page 1 of 2 Margot Lester
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Ms. Margot Lester
Name Called:
Home Address: 314 Bolin Forest Dr.
Carrboro NC 27510
Phone: 323-314-3735
Email: margot@thewordfactory.com
Year of OC Residence: 1962
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
Zone of Residence: Carrboro City Limits
Gender Identity: Female
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Volunteer naturalist and burial crew member, Bluestem Conservation Cemetery, Cedar
Grove
Volunteer communications and advocacy strategist, South Orange Rescue Squad,
Carrboro
Nature, climate and safety columnist, WCHL/Chapelboro.com, Chapel Hill
Member, NASA Earth to Sky Community of Practice
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
Stormwater Advisory Commission member, 2020-2021
Carrboro Film Festival Steering Committee member, 2010-2012
Local Living Economy Task Force member, 2010
Orange County Human Relations Commission, Carrboro representative, 2007-2009
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Commission for the Environment
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I'm intensely interested in nature and the environment--and human impacts on it. I hold national
certifications in climate communications (NASA) and nature interpretation (National Association
of Interpreters), and a North Carolina state certification in environmental education. I'm also a
member of NASA s Earth to Sky Community of Practice, which develops materials and
programs for place-based environmental and climate education and interpretation. I've been a
professional journalist, marketing executive and advocacy strategist for 40+ years. Additionally,
I've served on several muncipal boards and chaired the Chapel Hill Chambers Economic
Development& Public Policy Committee, so I have a clear understanding of how local
government works. This combination of credentials and experience enables me to effectively
evaluate policies and projects, understand and explain complex topics and research, and
educate others on the issues related to the environment and work effectively with policymakers,
elected officials and the general public.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
11
Page 2 of 2 Margot Lester
The potential to serve on this Commission is an opportunity to use my skills and experience to
promote environmental stewardship and serve my community. I recently completed my board
service with South Orange Rescue Squad and am eager to return to community volunteering.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
My certifications give me an evidence-based view on environmental and climate issues. I m a
native of Orange County and have lived here 53 of my 63 years, which gives me a historical
perspective newer arrivals may not have.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
I'm an independent interpretive naturalist and climate communicator, so some people could
perceive my appointment as a conflict. I was a local small business owner when I was on the
Carrboro Local Living Economy Task Force and that wasn t seen as a conflict, so I hope the
same holds true here.
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 3/14/2025 12:39:01 PM Date Printed: 3/14/2025
12
Page 1 of 2 Blake Tedderq
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Blake Tedderq
Name Called:
Home Address: 4726 Old Lake Trail
Hillsborough NC 27278
Phone: 919-717-0333
Email: oceanswow@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2003
Township of Residence: Cedar Grove
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Board Member, Alliance for Historic Hillsborough, 2024-present
DJ and Internal Communications committee member, WHUP Community Radio, 2022-
present
Advisory chair, Blake Tedder Burn Endowment, 2002-present
Peer supporter & workshop facilitator, Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors / UNC Jaycee
Burn Center, 2008-present
National conference workshop facilitator and speaker, Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors,
2011-2022
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
Orange Co. Master Aging Plan Committee, 2017
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Commission for the Environment
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I have a background in community practice social work and have worked in many nonprofits and
higher education. I have skills in communications, PR, fundraising/development, organizational
efficiency, board development, and operations. I currently work supporting climate research at
climate and sustainability community engagement at Duke and have previously worked in the
Office of the Duke Forest, familiarizing myself generally with some of the natural assets of the
county. To be clear, I am volunteering to serve as an individual NOT as a representative of
Duke. I played a small part in the Eno New Hope Habitat Connectivity plan. I live near Cedar
Grove and have been a resident of Orange County since 2003 when I moved here for college at
UNC. I am an avid hiker of all of our county's natural areas and a current student in NCBG s
native plant certificate program.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
13
Page 2 of 2 Blake Tedderq
Orange County is my home, and it is a priceless gem in our state. We have a legacy here of
expertise from NCGB, UNC, Duke, and countless citizen organizing movements to protect the
incredible environment we have to this day. I am concerned however about the stability of the
rural buffer, the encroachment of development from our west, climate resiliency of our rural
communities, and the cascading effects of farm loss. I am most concerned about wildlife habitat
connectivity in the region and would want to consider projects, proposals, and interventions that
support greater connectivity.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I don't know the viewpoints of the current membership. And I am a white male with particular
privilege. It is important that we have Indigenous and african american representation on the
commission to have a deeper diversity of viewpoints, so please allow me to cede my application
to ones from neighbors of those groups. If selected however, while I have developed some
amount of familiarity/connection with environmental groups in our region and have a general
layout of county environmental issues, I do not have subject matter expertise in sciences. I am a
generalist. I bring most notably a communications, PR, and a community practice social work
background (among other things)that could be useful in advising on reports, campaigns (like
Land Use 2050 or community grants).
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
I work for Duke University which is a large landholder in the county. I would be offering my
service to this board as an individual, unrelated to my previous work with Duke Forest or current
work with Duke s Office of Climate & Sustainability or the university as a whole.
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 11/19/2024 1:41:26 PM Date Printed: 11/21/2024
14
Page 1 of 2 James Wheeler
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Mr. James Wheeler
Name Called:
Home Address: 2926 Little River Dr.
Hillsborough NC 27278
Phone: 310-801-5841
Email: jameswheeler.2009@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2024
Township of Residence: Little River
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Member of various nursing organizations
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Board of Health
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
Over 20 years working in healthcare. 15 years working as a nurse. Over four years working in
nursing leadership.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I want to improve health literacy and advocacy in the community.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I have lived all over the country and have experienced various opportunities and viewpoints in
my career.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
College educated with MBA. Have adopted pets from shelters since 2014.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
As above.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
Provide a unique perspective to help with animal rights and advocacy.
15
Page 2 of 2 James Wheeler
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Commission for the Environment
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
As above.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I have a very strong interest in preserving our environment and educating regarding climate
change.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I have a diverse education from living in LA and around the country.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 8/10/2024 5:55:51 PM Date Printed: 8/21/2024
16
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Commission for the Environment
Meeting Times: 7:00 pm Second Monday of every month Contact Person:Wesley Poole&Kalani Allen
Meeting Place: Bonnie B.Davis Environment&Agricultural Center 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.
Dr. Kristie Mather
1 First Appointed: 03/16/2021
Gender Identity: Female Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 03/07/2024
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2026
Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Number of Terms: 2
Mr. Matthew Ferguson
2 First Appointed: 03/07/2024
Gender Identity: Male Township: Bingham Current Appointment: 03/07/2024
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2025
Age Range: 18-34 Special Repr: Number of Terms:
Lily Schacht
3 First Appointed: 03/07/2024
Gender Identity: Female Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 03/07/2024
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2026
Age Range: 18-34 Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1
VACANT
4 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2025
Age Range: Special Repr: Number of Terms:
Mr. Patrick Fn'Piere
5 First Appointed: 03/07/2024
Gender Identity: Male Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 11/19/2024
Ethnic Background: African American Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2027
Age Range: 60+ Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1
Mr Taylor Oakley
6 First Appointed: 04/05/2022
Gender Identity: Male Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 12/05/2022
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2025
Age Range: 18-34 Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1
Wednesday,March 26,2025 Page 1
17
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Commission for the Environment
Meeting Times: 7:00 pm Second Monday of every month Contact Person:Wesley Poole&Kalani Allen
Meeting Place: Bonnie B.Davis Environment&Agricultural Center Contact Phone: 919-245-2522
Positions: 15 Length:3 years Terms: 2
VACANT
7 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2025
Age Range: Special Repr: Number of Terms:
Mr Mark Randall
8 First Appointed: 09/20/2022
Gender Identity: Male Township: Cedar Grove Current Appointment: 12/05/2022
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2025
Age Range: 60+ Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1
Dr. John Bucher
9 First Appointed: 03/07/2024
Gender Identity: Male Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 03/07/2024
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2026
Age Range: 60+ Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1
Ms. Veronica Beattie
10 First Appointed: 03/16/2021
Gender Identity: Female Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 03/07/2024
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2026
Age Range: 18-34 Special Repr: Number of Terms: 2
Mr Ian Morse
11 Vice-Chair First Appointed: 04/05/2022
Gender Identity: Male Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 03/07/2024
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2026
Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1
VACANT
12 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2027
Age Range: Special Repr: Number of Terms:
Wednesday,March 26,2025 Page 2
18
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Commission for the Environment
Meeting Times: 7:00 pm Second Monday of every month Contact Person:Wesley Poole&Kalani Allen
Meeting Place: Bonnie B.Davis Environment&Agricultural Center Contact Phone: 919-245-2522
Positions: 15 Length:3 years Terms: 2
Ms. Regina Baratta
13 Chair First Appointed: 09/20/2022
Gender Identity: Female Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 11/19/2024
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2027
Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Number of Terms: 2
Aimee Vandemark
14 First Appointed: 03/07/2024
Gender Identity: Female Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 11/19/2024
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2027
Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1
VACANT
15 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2027
Age Range: Special Repr: Number of Terms:
Wednesday,March 26,2025 Page 3
19
Applicant Interest Listing by Board Name and by Applicant Name
Contact Person: Wesley Poole&Kalani Allen
Commission for the EnvironmentContact
Phone: 919-245-2522
William L. Branch
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 01/03/2025
Ethnic Background: White Township: Bingham
Age Range: 60+ Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Ms. Leto Copeley
Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 01/13/2025
Ethnic Background: White Township: Eno
Age Range: 60+ Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Ms. Margot Lester
Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 03/14/2025
Ethnic Background: White Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range: 60+ Zone of Residence: Carrboro City Limits
Also Serves On:
Dr. Mayur Lodaya
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 12/27/2024
Ethnic Background: Asian American Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range: 60+ Zone of Residence: C.H.City Limits
Also Serves On:
Blake Tedderq
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 11/19/2024
Ethnic Background: White Township: Cedar Grove
Age Range: 35-59 Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Mr. James Wheeler
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 08/10/2024
Ethnic Background: White Township: Little River
Age Range: 35-59 Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On: Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Wednesday,March 26,2025 Page 1 of 1
20
ORANGE COUNTY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
ANNUAL REPORT/ WORK PLAN
Board/Commission Name: Commission for the Environment
Report Period: January 2024-December 2024
The Board of Commissioners appreciates the dedication of all the volunteers on their
boards and commissions and welcomes input from various boards and commissions
throughout the year. Please complete the following information, limited to the front and
back of this form. Other background materials may be provided as a supplement to, but
not as a substitute for, this form.
Person to address the BOCC and contact information: Regina Baratta
Primary County Staff Contact Person: Christian Hirni, Wesley Poole, David Stancil-
Director, DEAPR
How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including any special
meetings and sub-committee meetings?
The board meets once per month (2nd Monday). No meeting is held during the
month of July. Committees meet as needed during regular meetings.
Brief Statement of Board/Commission's Assigned Charge and Responsibilities.
Purpose: to advise the BOCC on matters affecting the environment, with
particular emphasis on environmental protection and enhancement. Other duties
include:
• Perform special studies/projects on environmental issues as
requested by BOCC
• Recommend environmental initiatives to the BOCC, especially of
local importance
• Study changes in environmental science and environmental
regulations in the pursuit of the CFE's duties
• Educate the public and local officials on environmental issues
What are your Board/Commission's most important accomplishments?
• Provided ranking and comments to the BOCC for five cycles of the Climate
Action Fund program (2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024)
• CFE member joined the Orange County Climate Council
21
• Reviewed and submitted recommendations for the two cycles of Climate Action
Tax Grant application for Chapel Hill-Carrboro Schools (2022 and 2023)
• Provided input on updates to the Lands Legacy Action Plan (2017 and 2023)
• Reviewed and provided recommendations for the Orange County Climate Action
Plan (2023)
• Created a draft No Net Loss Canopy Policy for Orange County Government,
currently under staff review (2023)
• By request of the BOCC through a citizen concern, conducted research of local
electric utilities allocation/distribution of "solar credits, and provided a letter to the
BOCC describing differences between utilities, and the need to continue support
of expanding solar in the County (2022)
• Participated and provided several booths/educational activities for both the
Carrboro Earth Day and Hillsborough Earth Evening celebrations (2022,
2023, and 2024)
• Reviewed and submitted recommendation for Piedmont Wildlife Center Outside
Agency Funding Request Application (2022, 2023, and 2024)
• Re-assigned subcommittee for County Right of Way Task force, with two CFE
volunteers to serve and promote the new committee (2022)
• As directed by the BOCC, provided comments and recommendations regarding a
large development proposal in Efland (Efland Station 2021)
• Signed Resolution of Support for the Eno New Hope Landscape Conservation
Plan (2021)
• Ranked and submitted preferences of first recipients for the first distribution of
Climate Action Tax Funds FY2019-20. Ranking Funds for FY 2020-21 will
proceed through December 2020/January 2021.
• Planned and presented the 2019 State of the Environment report at the2019
Environmental Summit (reports were previously completed in 2000, 2002, 2004, 2009,
and 2014)
• Prepared resolutions for BOCC consideration concerning: Anti-Idling Campaign,
Support for Carbon Fee and Dividend legislation, Request for NC to Divest from
Fossil Fuel Corporations, Roadside Wildflower Conservation (2018)
• Developed recommendations for the County's Climate Change Program scoring
system (2019)
• Requested the BOCC consider joining the Global Covenant of Mayors and
Chairs organization concerned with global climate change (2018)
• Wrote a series of climate change articles (2017)
• Developed and posted a Facebook page (2017)
• Edited and recommended a renewable energy resolution to the BOCC (2017)
• Recruited UNC capstone students to assist with the 2019 State of the
Environment report (2017)
• Made recommendations to BOCC on UDO amendment to flexible subdivisions
(2016)
• Initiated a series of newspaper articles on environmental issues featured
22
previously in the Orange County State of the Environment report (2015-16)
• Made recommendations to BOCC on 2016 bond package, the use of pesticides
at County facilities, and incentives for energy efficient construction (2015)
• Commented to Planning Bd. on proposed changes to impervious surface rules
(2015)
• Provided ideas for Public Services Announcements for County radio spots (2015)
• Collaborated with others on energy conservation and mgmt. projects (2015-16)
• Convened previous Orange County Environmental Summits (2005, 2009, 2014, 2019)
• Made recommendations to BOCC on food waste and solid waste tax district
(2014)
• Worked with Orange County Schools to introduce local environmental indicators
into middle and high school science curricula (2004, 2009, 2014)
• Hosted a Solid Waste Forum with the Chapel Hill Sustainability Committee
(2013)
• Co-sponsored The Nature of Orange photography contest (2012 - 2024)
• Advocated for '/2 cent sales tax referendum for Triangle Region public transit
(2012)
• Compiled annotated bibliography of the effects of forestry on water quality (2012)
• Developed sustainable landscaping and forest management policies for the
administration of County-owned facilities (2010)
List of Specific Tasks, Events, or Functions Performed or Sponsored Annually.
• Co-sponsor "Nature of Orange" Photography Contest
• Liaison to Intergovernmental Parks Work Group
• Review and comment on environmental issues (e.g., anti-idling efforts,
fracking, biosolids application, water pollution, air quality, forest mgmt.)
and other issues assigned by the BOCC
• Identify priorities for the Lands Legacy Action Plan (natural areas and
wildlife habitat)
• Conduct special studies pertaining to Orange County environment (e.g.,
energy efficiency/sustainability, forestry effects on water quality,
herbicides and native flora)
• Conduct environmental education outreach events (e.g., Earth Evening)
Describe this board/commission's activities/accomplishments in carrying out BOCC
goal(s)/priorities, if applicable.
BOCC Goal Five: Create, preserve, and protect a natural environment that
includes clean water, clean air, wildlife, important natural lands and
sustainable energy for present and future generations.
• Presented findings and recommendations to BOCC on selected environmental
23
issues: 1) roadside wildflower preservation; 2) effects of forest mgmt. on water
quality; 3) effects of herbicides on roadside native plant habitat; 4) potential
effects of hydraulic fracturing ("fracking") in Orange County; 5) need for 100%
renewable energy in Orange County (BOCC Priorities #1 and #12)
Stayed abreast of ongoing and developing env. issues of importance to the
County,
such as Falls & Jordan Lake nutrient mgmt. rules, reducing commercial food
waste in
solid waste stream, and permitting of biosolids on farmland (Priorities #12 and
#16)
Describe the collaboration relationship(s) this particular board has with other advisory
boards and commissions?
As needed. Members of this commission are also on the Planning Board and the
Intergovernmental Parks Work Group.
Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2025 as they relate
to established BOCC goals and priorities. If applicable, is there a fiscal impact (i.e.,
funding, staff time, other resources) associated with these proposed activities (please
list).
• State of the Environment Report 2025
• Provide support to Climate Action Plan implementation
• The CFE will review and rank grant applications for the sixth cycle of the
County Climate Action Grant
• Involvement with the development of the update Land Use Element of the
Comprehensive Plan
• Progression of policies and programs that promote tree canopy retention
and reforestation in alignment with the Climate Action Plan
• Introduction of an Invasive Species Management Policy
• Advocate for the incorporation of the Eno-New Hope Landscape
Connectivity (Triangle Connectivity Cooperative) Report in future County
documents and plans
• Continue to support the Upper Neuse River Basin Association (UNRBA)
and their approach to solving water quality issues in the Falls Lake
Watershed
24
What are the concerns or emerging issues your board has identified for the upcoming
year that it plans to address, or wishes to bring to the Commissioners' attention?
- Advocate for the reestablishment of the full Community Climate Action
Grant Funds
- Support the Sustainability Office heat mitigation efforts
- The CFE would like to review and comment on County rezoning requests,
as soon as the information is available to DEAPR staff