NEST committees are where the core work of our team happens. Each committee focuses on a key area of Naperville’s sustainability goals, researching best practices, identifying science-based solutions, and bringing recommendations back to the city and community. Committees also look at what other municipalities are doing and explore how those strategies could be adapted for Naperville.
Most committees meet virtually once or twice a month in the evening. Meeting times are listed on our calendar and below.
New members are encouraged to get involved. To start, you can fill out our volunteer form, attend a meeting, or email the committee chair.
Executive Team
The Executive Team provides coordination, strategic direction, and support across all NEST committees. The executive team can be reached at leadership@sustainnaperville.org
Members:
Barbara Benson
Ted Bourlard
Amy Phillips
Theresa Hus
Youth Liaison: Simisola Smith-Pariola
Building & Development
Chair: Barbara Benson
Meeting Time: 4th Wednesday of every month at 7:00pm (online)
The Building & Development Committee works to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from Naperville’s buildings: new and existing, residential and commercial. The committee engages with city officials, council members, and residents to promote updated building codes, improve energy efficiency, and advance electrification. Building & Development and Energy jointly manage our Climate Coaches program.
To find out more or get involved: ChairBuildingandDevelopment@sustainnaperville.org
Community Engagement
Chair: Open (Theresa Hus, Interim Chair) Meeting Time: 4th Tuesday of every month (online)
The Community Engagement Committee helps inform and educate Naperville residents, businesses, and community leaders. Drawing on the expertise of other NEST committees, it uses the website, social media, and public events to share resources, address sustainability questions, and highlight opportunities for residents to reduce their environmental footprint.
To find out more or get involved: ChairCommunityEngagement@sustainnaperville.org
Energy
Chair: Joe Hus
Meeting Time: 1st and 3rd Tuesdays at 7:30 pm (online)
The Energy Committee focuses on promoting a transition to affordable, clean energy and eliminating Naperville’s reliance on coal‑generated electricity. The committee also works to advance energy efficiency in homes and businesses, reducing pollution and saving residents money. Building & Development and Energy jointly manage our Climate Coaches program.
To find out more or get involved: ChairEnergy@sustainnaperville.org
Natural Resources
Chair: Amy Phillips
Meeting Schedule: Ad hoc
The Natural Resources Committee envisions a community that embraces native landscaping, expands biodiverse tree canopy, and transitions from gas‑powered to electric lawn equipment. The committee highlights the work of local conservation partners and amplifies their efforts to the city and the broader community. This committee meets on an ad hoc basis, but if you have suggestions for initiatives or community partners to include, please contact the committee chair.
To find out more or get involved: ChairNaturalResources@sustainnaperville.org
Transportation
Chair: Bruce Jones
Meeting Time: 1st Thursday of every month at 7 PM (online)
The Transportation Committee explores and advocates for cleaner, more efficient mobility options in Naperville. The group discusses topics related to electric vehicles, biking, walking, and public transit, with the goal of supporting a healthier, more connected, and lower‑emission transportation system.
To find out more or get involved: ChairTransportation@sustainnaperville.org
Waste
Chair: Beth Schwartz
Meeting Time: 2nd Wednesday of every month at 7:00pm (online)
The Waste Committee works to develop a strategic, community‑wide approach to reducing and better managing waste in Naperville. Its efforts include researching best practices from other municipalities, exploring opportunities to expand composting and recycling, and identifying practical steps residents, businesses, and the city can take to reduce what ends up in the landfill.
To find out more or get involved: ChairWaste@sustainnaperville.org
Youth
Chair: Simisola Smith-Pariola
Meeting Time: Ad hoc
The Youth Team brings together high school and college students who care about sustainability and want to engage their peers and the broader community. This youth‑led adjunct group meets periodically to support NEST outreach and share youth perspectives on local sustainability issues. The team is guided by NEST’s Youth Liaison, who helps connect youth concerns with NEST leadership.
To find out more or get involved: ChairYouth@sustainnaperville.org