Elgin Math & Science Academy

Master Planning and Environmental Committee Meeting

Date and Time

Thursday January 18, 2024 at 4:00 PM CST

Location

Admin Building - SS Classroom

1600 Dundee Avenue

Elgin, IL 60120

Our Mission:
 

The Elgin Math and Science Academy is an EL Education public charter school.

 

We strive to support the whole child and develop socially responsible leaders who aspire to create a better world.

Agenda

Section Number Topic Number Details Purpose Presenter Time
I. Opening Items 4:00 PM
  A. Record Attendance   1 m
  B. Call the Meeting to Order   Gary Swick 1 m
  C. Approve Minutes of the November 15, 2023, Meeting of the Master Planning Committee Approve Minutes Gary Swick 3 m
     
II. COO Report on Facilities and Grounds 4:05 PM
  A. Update on EMSA Facilities & Grounds 5 m
  B. Solar Power Possibilities Discuss Dan Alexander 45 m
   

There will be a report about solar power.  The mechanics and impact of the current solar incentives will be examined in the context of actual proposals from an established vendor with extensive experience in similar appications, for sale and installation of a solar array on the Gym Building, and on the Art Barn building.  

 

This presentation is not intended to be a decision making discussion, but rather dialogue about solar panels, the power they can generate, their cost, subsidies to reduce cost, and long-term value (financial, educational, mission/stewardship).

 

As will be seen, there would be some up-front capital investment required in the solar panels, which could be paid for from the $500,000 Property Reserve and then repaid from operating savings realized by solar production.  Administration is planning to recommend this approach be taken in the coming months, as part of the FY25 budget process.  

 

 

 
  C. Gardening Effort Report Discuss Dan Alexander 15 m
   

Dan Alexander and Karl Harris met and created together a plan for Dan to create raised garden beds and support the installation of composting and rain barrel equipment.   Karl would become the head of a Club which would meet After School, and do projects including study of soil ecology, water management, ecological study of native pollinator plants, and study and engagement with vegetable gardening in the raised garden beds.  Dan would be a support for the garden in the summertime.  All elements of the broader garden described above, would be available for student engagement during the regular school day as well.  See attached.   

 
III. Campus Environment & Historical Character Support Group 5:10 PM
  A. Vegetable Garden 5 m
  B. Pollinator Garden 5 m
  C. Better World Projects 5 m
IV. Community Opportunities: staff, county, city, etc
V. State of Illinois Issues 5:25 PM
  A. IDOT and Entryway concerns
  B. IDOT & Sound Wall 5 m
VI. Facilities Reserve Fund
VII. Sustainability
 

Goals & Timelines

 
VIII. Closing Items
  A. Adjourn Meeting Vote