The New Boston Energy Commission seeks to expand the recycle efforts that currently exist in town. In 1996 a warrant article was passed for 100% mandatory recycling for the town. The Commission seeks to make that a more active program by providing community located recycle bins. Currently the recycling is dependent on residents bringing recyclables to the transfer station. Community events have no evident recycling option when disposing of beverage containers or paper waste. The focus for community events will be to recycle the bottles and cans. In 2008 the Commission successfully launched a fullscale recycle project at the one local elementary school. That project involves both recycling education and waste reduction. This year the Commission seeks to purchase 3-4 weather sturdy bins to be permanently located in community areas such as the newly constructed library, town common and area fairgrounds. In addition, the purchase of more portable stands, and the clear bag insert will be used for community events. These stands will be set up for specific events that occur in town, such as the 4-H county fair, the Library town picnic, the 5K road race, the July 4th festivities-Chicken BBQ and fireworks, after the parade. As part of recycling efforts the commission will also be working with town departments on their recycling practices, providing small trainings in each department - to be coordinated with the transfer station manager. The type of bins have been selected under the guidance of transfer station manager, Gerry Cornett. Our understanding is the clear bags improve recycling and are easy to see when they need to be removed and a new bag inserted. BACKGROUND: Our volunteer committee/commission started in 2006 joining 164 other New Hampshire towns in seeking the formation of a town energy committee. It has approached citizens (total town population 5000) with various surveys and warrant articles proposals to improve the energy savings in town and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These actions have been met favorably with residents voting in favor of the following: * Warrant article for formation of energy committee 2007 * Warrant article for tax exemption for wind power residential installation 2008 * Warrant article for tax exemption for solar power residential installation 2008 * EPA Energy Challenge approval 2008 * New Boston Central School Recycling Program 2008 * Warrant article for funds for energy audit of town hall 2009 * Establishment of Energy Commission 2009 Our group acted on becoming a commission when HB189 was passed in July 2009 allowing towns to establish energy commissions. The previous status of being an ad hoc committee limited the autonomy of the group to act in a timely fashion for some projects. The commission delineation as more status and independence. FUTURE PLANS Our projects and plans for 2010 include: * Improved recycling * Advocacy * Educational efforts * Energy use tracking The advocacy plan is to bring the expertise to town officials and departments. We have initiated discussions with numerous trades people (with successful projects in LEED god construction) to talk with selectmen as they discuss the potential town hall renovations. Also, we intend to work on having a Energy Plan as part of the town's master plan. That is a requirement that has not yet been met by the town. The educational plan includes continued programs offered for free in connection with library programs. Training for town workers in all departments is another part of the educational plan. With over 37 years teaching and community activities experience, our committee has the expertise to implement an deliver programs.