§ 2-53. Energy Conservation Commission.

(a)

Legislative findings. The South Bend Common Council hereby finds that a strong energy conservation program is needed to meet the present and future energy needs of our community.

(b)

Establishment. It is hereby declared that the establishment of an Energy Conservation Commission is in the public interest of the City of South Bend.

(c)

Composition. The Commission shall be composed of thirteen (13) members, eight (8) of whom shall be appointed by the Council, and five (5) of whom shall be appointed by the Mayor. The Commission shall be broadly representative of the community. Each member shall have either a professional interest or background in the area or have a sincere interest in the goals and objectives of energy conservation.

(d)

Terms of membership. The members of the Commission shall serve three-year terms as members. All members shall serve at the pleasure of the appointing party.

(e)

Compensation; quorum. All members of the Commission shall serve without compensation. Any seven (7) members shall constitute a quorum.

(f)

Organization. At the first meeting of every calendar year, the members shall select a Chairman, Vice-Chairman and Secretary.

(g)

Meetings. The Commission shall meet not less than four (4) times per year at the call of the Chairman.

(h)

Purpose and specific powers. The purpose of the Commission shall be to develop and encourage energy conservation programs and policies. In carrying out this purpose, the Commission may exercise the following powers:

(1)

To advise the City administration and the Common Council on efficient uses of present and future sources of energy by developing:

a.

Long-range energy conservation plans; and

b.

Emergency energy plans.

(2)

To review the energy plans in each department, bureau and subdivision of the City;

(3)

To make information available on energy conservation to the industrial, commercial, residential, business, governmental, recreational and transportation areas of our community;

(4)

To act as a clearinghouse for activities and information related to energy conservation;

(5)

To develop and recommend legislation which would foster the conservation of energy;

(6)

To stimulate awareness and promote public participation in energy conservation programs;

(7)

To obtain necessary data and information from the various departments, bureaus and other divisions of the City in order to exercise its powers.

(Ord. No. 7108-82, § 4; Ord. No. 7420-85, §§ 1, 2)