Corte Madera committee plans electrification outreach, tree‑planting and garden‑tour outreach

Vice Chair Karen Lang told the committee that the electrification subcommittee wants to prepare residents for potential regulations affecting space and water heaters by producing an article, a postcard and — if feasible — a student‑made video. Lang said timing should consider the Bay Area Air District’s implementation schedule to avoid premature messaging and suggested waiting for clearer local rules to maximize impact.

"I just thought if something was gonna be passed in the spring... it might have more impact to time the postcard and the article to put that out as soon as we hear from the local air district," Lang said.

Committee members discussed messaging risks — staff Phoebe cautioned against stoking panic or encouraging early replacement of functioning gas appliances — and the group agreed to emphasize readiness and environmental benefits while including guidance about common barriers such as electrical panel upgrades and potential exemptions for low‑income residents.

On tree planting and landscaping, the committee approved outreach materials focused on low‑water, fire‑resistant species for private properties and public planting opportunities. The tree subcommittee plans a flyer to distribute through Redwood High School and town channels ahead of spring, and the landscaping subcommittee will staff a table at the Snowmama Marin eco‑friendly garden tour on Saturday, May 9 (10 a.m.–4 p.m.) at Town Park/Playground to showcase demonstration gardens, share rebate and property assessment resources, and engage residents in hands‑on activities.

Phoebe reported staff work plan items and broader climate updates: the California Energy Commission approved the town’s energy reach code, the council approved the staff work plan for 2026, and staff will review permit fees and development‑impact fee calculations that may disproportionately affect electrification projects. Phoebe also highlighted regional events and webinars the committee can promote, including a March 15 electrification fair in Fairfax and an Earth Day event on April 26.

Committee members asked staff to coordinate timing across subcommittees to avoid duplicative collateral and to involve students and local nurseries where appropriate. No formal vote was taken on programmatic funding or regulatory advocacy at this meeting.