The Hilliard Environmental Sustainability Commission (ESC) is an advisory group for Hilliard City Council, focused on promoting environmental sustainability by reviewing green policies, advising on programs, and engaging the community through initiatives to reduce waste, conserve resources, & improve local green spaces.
Its members include Melissa Muth, Chair, Maggie Willis, Vice Chair, Meredith Bembenic, Secretary, Cynthia Vermilion, City Council Representative, Tiffany Fritchley, Mikaela Hunt, James Murphy, Gary Smith, J. Gregory Smith, Joey Smith, and Chris Ward. Hilliard City employee Forest Runels provides staff support.
Key Functions and Activities
The Commission advises City Council and staff on sustainability initiatives, reviewing environmental policies, practices, & proposals. It helps implement programs like Go Green Hilliard to educate residents & businesses on reducing waste, reusing materials, and composting.
It also assists in the implementation of city-wide policies for energy efficiency, trail connectivity, and sustainable infrastructure, working to enhance the quality of life in Hilliard, balancing growth with environmental responsibility. And it helps to secure funding and resources for community sustainability efforts and manages programs like Keep Hilliard Beautiful.
How It Operates
The goal of the ESC is to create and enhance sustainable practices within the Hilliard community for current and future generations. It is comprised of resident volunteers with expertise in areas like conservation, engineering, and recycling. It holds monthly meetings at 5:45 pm on the second Wednesday of each month at the Municipal Building, 3800 Municipal Way. All meetings are open to the public.
Photo by Lenn Black
The mission of the ESC is to promote & advance sustainable practices and environmental stewardship within the community. Committed to preserving its natural resources and improving the quality of life for current & future generations, the ESC works collaboratively with residents, businesses, & local government to develop & implement initiatives that address key environmental challenges. Through education, outreach, and policy recommendations, it aims to foster a culture of sustainability, raise awareness about environmental issues, and advocate for innovative solutions that promote long-term ecological balance & resilience.
Go Green Hilliard
Go Green Hilliard works to educate and provide opportunities for residents to recycle within our community as effectively as possible. It helps Hilliard Recycle Right with SWACO and other programs throughout the metropolitan area. It also works to secure grants for additional recycling systems, such as the Styrofoam densifier and composting program at the Hilliard Municipal Center.
It also hosts an annual Earth Day Recycling Drive every year at the Franklin County Fairgrounds. This year’s event, which will be on April 11, will collect paper, Styrofoam, electronics, and gently used clothing & household items.
Become a Member of Go Green Hilliard
Take the Pledge to reduce waste and conserve energy & water in your home or business. By becoming a member, you will receive a Go Green Hilliard window cling to show others your commitment to help protect the environment. More importantly, you’ll be helping to make Hilliard a greener community.
