Waterbury LEAP | Resources | Duncan's 10 Tips on Running a Town Energy Committee

10 Steps to Start and Maintain an Active Town Energy Committee
Duncan McDougall – Founder & Chair of Waterbury LEAP

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Organize an event to identify interested folks and help kick things off.
In March 2007 we organized a local ‘Step It Up’ event. 125 people attended, 60 people signed our clipboard saying they wanted to help Waterbury become more energy efficient, and LEAP was born.
Build a strong E-Mail Distribution List
E-mail is the best way to connect with a large group of folks. Gather e-mails all the time from ‘like-minded’ folks. Write your e-mails carefully. Make them brief, relevant, and periodic.
Decide on your organization’s mission and goals
It’s critical to decide on a clear mission and structure. What are you trying to accomplish, and who is responsible? It helps to have core group of folks (5+) who can be counted on to show up and help.
Attend as many town events as possible and be visible
LEAP has had displays at town fairs, farmers markets, Home & Garden shows, July 4th parades, and other activities. Over time more people began to know about us in town and hear about our work.
Pick a few projects that are tangible, useful and measurable
People like to be part of a group that is accomplishing something. Pick a few projects that are tangible, fit your mission, and are measurable. Get them done, and then report success to your members and the town. You will soon find more people want to join your effort.
Run periodic and efficient meetings
The quickest way to sap an organization’s energy and enthusiasm is to hold long, rambling meetings that never quite come to any decisions. Each meeting should have an agenda. The meeting leader must keep discussion on subject and on time. Start and finish the meeting on time, and clarify ‘to do’s’ at the end. People are much more likely to attend meetings if they know things will get done.
Everybody can benefit from the work of a Town Energy Committee
There are projects a Town Energy Committee can conduct that help individuals, businesses, schools, social organizations and the municipality. Let all of them know about your work, and what you can do for them. The more constituencies are involved in your work, the more support you’ll receive.
Don’t be afraid to ask for ideas and support
Vermont is such a sharing, cooperative state. In three years Waterbury LEAP has never had anyone in the environmental and energy community turn down a request for suggestions or support. Just ask!
Involve town leaders
Always invite town leaders (Selectboard, planning commission, town manager) to your events, and give them updates on your progress.
Pace yourself, and take the long view
Don’t take on more than you and your fellow volunteers can accomplish. You’ll just burn out. Plan reasonable, achievable goals for the next couple of years. Build on your successes, and celebrate your achievements. Don’t fret about what you didn’t accomplish. Focus on what you did get done.

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