Leesburg Environmental Advisory Commission Meeting - June 3, 2026

The Environmental Advisory Commission (EAC) met on June 3, 2026, at 6:30 PM. The meeting covered a staff presentation on the town's landscape design process, approval of spending for FY26, and discussions on upcoming initiatives including the bamboo ordinance, bag tax revenue, and the Oops recycling campaign. The commission also debriefed the Keep Leesburg Beautiful flower and garden festival and the Golden Grabber awards.

Consent Calendar

• The agenda was approved by motion with a second.
• The minutes from May 5, 2026 were approved as amended after corrections were noted (meeting disclosure reader and seconder for item three). Vote: 4-0 (Laura absent, not yet removed from present list).

Public Comments & Testimony

• No public comments were made.

Discussion Items

• Staff Presentation – Landscape Planning & Management: Melissa Westbrook, Urban Forester, presented an overview of how landscape design is handled across departments (Public Works, Parks, Community Development). Key guiding documents include the zoning ordinance, design and construction manual (DCSM), and internal policies like zero net loss of tree canopy. She outlined principles for sustainable landscape design: safety, biodiversity, resilience, stewardship, regeneration, function, and aesthetics. The town is updating species lists, removing invasive species, and compiling a tree inventory. Discussion included the possibility of a low-impact landscaping ordinance, bamboo ordinance, and partnerships with the Tree Commission.
• Staff Updates: Deb S. reported that the stormwater resiliency plan kickoff has begun; the EAC will be a key stakeholder. The bamboo ordinance will be presented to Council on June 9, along with plans for spending bag tax revenue. The Oops recycling campaign launches June 15, targeting ~100 homes per week in diverse areas.
• FY26 Spending Request: The commission reviewed remaining funds ($2,102.57). Proposed purchases: tent walls ($147), grabbers ($208 for 20), string light recycling bins (two at ~$132 each), raccoon costume (~$250), and sweatshirts for members (up to ~$50 each). After discussion, a motion was made to approve all these purchases, with a second, and passed unanimously. Leftover funds may be used for prizes for next year's flower festival.
• Golden Grabber Ceremony Debrief: For the second year, winners did not attend the council ceremony. The commission discussed alternatives such as delivering awards in person or presenting at community events like First Friday or concert series. No final decision was made; further discussion is deferred.
• Flower & Garden Festival Debrief: The commission reviewed feedback collected via the “wish tree” infographic. Responses included requests for more crosswalks, native plants, and water stations. The graphic may be posted on the EAC webpage and shared on social media.
• Calendar & Attendance: Due to multiple absences expected in July, the commission decided to skip the July meeting. Members were reminded of the attendance policy (cannot miss three consecutive meetings).

Key Outcomes

• Motion approved: Purchase of tent walls, grabbers, string light recycling bins, raccoon costume, and sweatshirts for FY26, as presented.
• No formal vote: On future Golden Grabber format or July meeting cancellation; discussion only.
• Next steps: Staff will send links for sizes and proceed with procurement; web page updates to include outreach section; further discussion on Golden Grabber next meeting.