Buda City Council appointed seven residents to serve on the city's newly created sustainability commission at last night’s meeting.

According to city documents, the commission will serve as a City Council advisory board on matters related to sustainability, such as environmental stewardship and social awareness.

“The commission will take a holistic look [at] sustainability and make recommendations that best suit the residents of Buda,” City Planner Meredith Johnson said in an email. “[Their] goal is to address issues that are not only related to the environment but also to livability as a whole.”

City Secretary Alicia Ramirez said the city began advertising for positions after council approved the creation of the commission at the Sept. 20 meeting. Since then, the city received 16 applications. Each council member made one nomination.

Mayor Todd Ruge nominated Carly Montez.

Angela Kennedy, Place 1, nominated Brooke Prendergast, a surgical scrub.

Wiley Hopkins, Place 2, nominated Vincent Lecca, who works in pharmaceutical sales.

David Nuckels, Place 3, nominated Rex Drake, a professional engineer.

George Haehn, Place 4, nominated Amy Chung, who listed her occupation as a homemaker and "client engagement."

Eileen Altmiller, Place 5, nominated Eric Martinez, who works as a senior architectural designer.

Bobby Lane, Place 6, nominated Marni Martinez, an advanced practice nurse.

Johnson said citizens serving on the commission will make policy recommendations to the council related to air quality, water conservation and green space preservation. The commission will examine best practices for development and how to promote a sustainably built environment. According to the city, the commission will also pursue grant opportunities and develop educational opportunities for Buda residents.