The Environmental Management Commission held its annual leadership election, with Commissioner Gerding taking the chair role and Commissioner Dittle becoming vice chair. Both positions were approved unanimously by the commission.

Much of the meeting focused on the upcoming Ecoair event, which takes place in three months near Castle Elementary School and Hope Church. Commissioners brainstormed promotional strategies to boost attendance, including yard signs on city streets, outreach to local churches and fire departments, and targeted advertising on ethnic radio stations like Hmong radio. Commissioner Brendan emphasized the importance of reaching diverse communities through channels they actually use, noting that many residents rely on radio rather than social media for news. The commission also discussed youth activities like composting demonstrations and bird feeder making to engage younger attendees.

The commission reviewed its 2025 environmental communications strategy, proposing adjustments to when certain topics are promoted. Chair Gerding suggested moving water conservation messaging to May or June—when residents are actively watering lawns—rather than the current timing. He also proposed shifting energy efficiency promotion from October to June, arguing residents should prepare for winter earlier. The commission agreed to add a general "sustainability" theme to its communications calendar.

In other business, commissioners discussed the voluntary drain-clearing program, where volunteers maintain three city drains at City Hall and Walton Park. Chair Gerding shared that the drains typically contain non-compostable items like plastic bottles and bottle caps rather than organic debris, and that some drains accumulate more debris than others based on location.

Mayor Zabel provided updates on city initiatives, including a Home Energy Audit program where the city covers 50% of the $100 cost, with residents receiving a federal tax credit for their portion. He also announced progress on the new Public Works Campus, which will include environmental features like native pollinator areas, and noted the upcoming adoption of the Park System Master Plan with environmental upgrades.