EC Agenda 1-22-2024
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
Remote Attendance: Members of the public may attend this meeting via Microsoft Teams by
calling 1-872-256-4160 and entering access code 910 737 312#.
Questions/Comments: Members of the public who have questions about the commission or
any items on the agenda should contact the staff commission liaison – Eric Eckman,
Environmental Resources Supervisor, eeckman@goldenvalleymn.gov, 763-593-8084.
1. Call to Order
2. Land Acknowledgement
We acknowledge and honor the Dakota nation, on whose ancestral land the City of Golden Valley
is built, and whose land resources we use. We commit to counteracting the erasure of the cultural
practices and presence of the Dakota people through education and by amplifying a wide range of
indigenous voices.
3. Roll Call
4. Approval of Agenda
5. Approval of November 27, 2023 Regular Meeting Minutes (5 min)
6. Old Business
A. Ȟaȟa Wakpadaŋ/Bassett Creek effort (10 min)
7. New Business
A. Greenstep Cities actions (10 min)
Action Requested
B. 2024 Work Plan - review current plans (50 min)
C. Program & Project updates (5 min)
D. Council Updates (5 min)
E. Other Business (5 min)
8. Adjournment
January 22, 2024 – 6:30 pm
City Hall Council Conference Room
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
Remote Attendance: Members of the public may attend this meeting via Microsoft Teams by calling
1-872-256-4160 and entering access code 587 275 181#.
Questions/Comments: Members of the public who have questions about the commission or any
items on the agenda should contact the staff commission liaison – Eric Eckman, Environmental
Resources Supervisor, eeckman@goldenvalleymn.gov, 763-593-8084.
1. Call to Order
The meeting was called to order by Chair Hill at 6:30 pm.
2. Land Acknowledgement
3. Roll Call
Commissioners present: Dawn Hill, Debra Yahle, Wendy Weirich, Tonia Galonska, Sarah Drawz, Paul
Klaas,
Commissioners absent: Ellen Brenna
Council Members present: None
Staff present: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor;
Ethan Kehrberg, Sustainability Specialist;
Carrie Nelson, Engineering Assistant.
4. Approval of November 27, 2023, Agenda
MOTION by Commissioner Galonska, seconded by Commissioner Drawz to approve the agenda for
November 27, 2023, and the motion carried.
5. Approval of October 23, 2023, Regular Meeting Minutes
MOTION by Commissioner Klaas, seconded by Commissioner Yahle to approve the minutes of October
23, 2023, as submitted and the motion carried.
1. Old Business
A. Recap Bees and Goat Grazing ordinances
i. The Goat Grazing ordinance passed unanimously. A permit will be needed.
ii. The Beekeeping did not pass. It did not make it to the second reading.
1. The Council had too many concerns and asked the EC to possibly review it again
in the future.
a. They want to wait for new and emerging science and see what the data
show. Is beekeeping helpful, neutral, or harmful to native bee
populations?
November 27, 2023 – 6:30 pm
City of Golden Valley Environmental Commission Regular Meeting
November 27, 2023 – 6:30 pm
2
2. Staff was neutral on the topic and worked with the Commission to draft an
ordinance that was practical and enforceable, if the Council wanted to move
forward.
3. The City will continue to plant native vegetation and pollinator-friendly habitats
and work with the Garden Club to provide education and outreach.
4. The ordinance before the Council was just for the private sector. There was no
intent for the City to own or operate any hives.
B. Ȟaȟa Wakpadaŋ/Bassett Creek Effort
i. Staff was present at the last gathering at Valley Presbyterian Church. The DEIC had at
least one commissioner present. The BCWMC Commissioner and Alternate
Commissioner were there.
ii. A lot of momentum to continue the conversation about using the Dakota name Ȟaȟa
Wakpadaŋ for Bassett Creek either as a dual naming approach or potentially as the only
name Golden Valley uses.
iii. Not only is the name, Ȟaȟa Wakpadaŋ, important to the Dakota people, so is protecting
and improving the water and adjacent lands.
iv. Eric, Seth (DEIC), Crystal, and Laura (BCWMC) will meet to discuss the next steps.
v. Joint DEIC/EC Meeting:
1. The joint meeting and the previous presentation from Crystal to the EC were
similar. DEIC members may be hearing it for the first time.
2. It was good to hear the thoughts of the DEI Commissioners.
3. Maybe the DEIC can take more of a lead role and get support from the EC?
a. EC can co-host or support the quarterly forum – Building and Equitable
Golden Valley.
b. EC can support Water Ceremony and possibly creek clean up in 2024.
4. The watershed is working on a new foldable map of the watershed. They are
committed to using the name Ȟaȟa Wakpadaŋ. It will tell stories from an
Indigenous perspective and include more facts.
5. The watershed commission of 9 cities is the one that looks at the entire creek,
the lakes, and wetlands within the watershed. The City has a commissioner and
alternate commissioner on the BCWMC.
a. We have a surface water management plan (updated every 10 years) that
lays out what the City of Golden Valley will do with our water resources
and what we commit to do.
b. We do give input on the BCWMC 10-year plan and other water related
initiatives.
C. Organics Recycling Participation Plan
i. Staff reviewed actions taken to support the launch of the Organics Recycling Program
and to maintain and increase participation as well as the Strategies to Increase Organics
Recycling Participation 2024-2026 (through the end of the current contract).
City of Golden Valley Environmental Commission Regular Meeting
November 27, 2023 – 6:30 pm
3
1. New Residential Buildings – Does the City educate the builder on things they
could be offering? Composting? Organics? Recycling? Salt management?
a. PUDs get amenity points. They need to get so many amenity points and
there are a number of environmental actions they can take to achieve
their points.
b. ‘By right’ projects only need permits to build.
i. Our environmental staff has a seat at the table of the
development team and can talk to the
developers/engineers/architects and suggest and encourage ideas
about items not required of the builder.
c. Emphasize the ‘why’ to residents.
d. Maybe put a challenge out there to make it a competition with peer
cities?
e. New residents are not contacted by Republic since they wouldn’t know
about the new resident unless they also use them for trash hauling.
i. Possibly work with utility billing to inform new residents when
they call in to set up utilities.
f. Reach out to Hennepin County to see if they have a display we could put
at the library?
MOTION by Commissioner Weirich, seconded by Commissioner Brenna to approve the
Increase Organics Recycling Participation Plan 2024-2026 with the following changes, and the
motion carried.
• Emphasize the ‘why’ to residents.
• Possibly put a challenge out there to make it a competition with peer cities.
• Be sure to get information to new residents about the program – possibly work with
Utility Billing to get the info out when new residents call in to set up utilities.
• Work with Hennepin County on possible displays for the library.
2. New Business
A. IRA Ambassador program
i. The IRA Ambassador program was created by The Clean Energy Resource Team (CERTs)
after the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The goal of the program is to get
more detailed information to community leaders who want to have more expertise
about the new legislation.
ii. Meant to be a way to spread the word about available rebates, tax credits, and other
incentives for energy and environmental projects.
iii. Anyone can become an ambassador.
iv. If commissioners want to become an ambassador, it is up to them which e-mail they use.
It is suggested they use their own personal e-mail since they will be a member as a
citizen, not a commission member.
v. The City has at least one ambassador.
City of Golden Valley Environmental Commission Regular Meeting
November 27, 2023 – 6:30 pm
4
B. Federal and State Energy Incentives
i. Staff gave an update on the legislation being passed at the State and Federal Level about
different residential and commercial tax credit opportunities as outlined in the Agenda
Memo.
1. Some of the rebates are retroactive for at least a few months.
2. The City will be looking to take advantage of the Minnesota Solar Grant Program
for Public Buildings.
3. The Statewide Commercial Building Energy Benchmarking will incentivize building
owners to make improvements because tenants will be able to look for more
energy efficient buildings to help lower costs and energy bills.
4. The Energy Code, statewide, is being updated more frequently with more
rigorous energy standards for new development.
C. Program/Project Updates
i. DeCola Ponds Flood Reduction Project (SEA School-Wildwood Park)
1. Mostly done. Just a few punch list items remain for spring.
2. The Pipe Replacement Project is also pretty much wrapped up for the year. It
was the third flood mitigation project implemented since 2016. The second
project that received state money.
3. The new water feature is empty and should mostly be dry. It will fill up with
water from the streets when it rains, and with spring run-off.
D. Council Updates
i. None
E. Other Business
i. December EC meeting
MOTION by Commissioner Yahle, seconded by Commissioner Drawz to cancel the
December 18, 2023 meeting, and the motion carried.
6. Adjournment
MOTION by Commissioner Galonska, seconded by Commissioner Yahle to adjourn the meeting at 8:25
pm and the motion carried.
ATTEST:
________________________________ _______________________________________
Carrie Nelson, Administrative Assistant Dawn Hill, Chair
Date: January 22, 2024
To: Environmental Commission
From: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor
Subject: Ȟaȟa Wakpadaŋ/Bassett Creek Awareness and Efforts
The Environmental Commission’s work plan includes the advancement of environmental justice
and land acknowledgement actions in our community. Although there is no specific discussion or
action item for January, staff is including a tentative draft schedule from Crystal Boyd who is
working with Indigenous community members, cultural advisors, and the Hennepin History
Museum to administer grants and facilitate community conversations that help advance these
efforts. Commissioners may want to keep these efforts in mind as we prepare to work on the
commission’s 2024 Work Plan in the months ahead.
2024 Events – TENTATIVE DRAFT - STILL IN DEVELOPMENT
• Jan 17 - Crystal presents at Breck School.
• Feb TBD - Author presents about Ho-Chunk history in Minnesota.
• Feb or March TBD - Crystal presents to BCWMC, alongside BCWMC Committee's
discussion on draft living waters land acknowledgement statement.
• April TBD - Multi-partner creek clean-up for Earth Day? Maybe with the City, BCWMC,
Friends of Bassett Creek, Mississippi Park Connection, etc.
• May 19 - Loppet Foundation hosts 5K.
• June TBD – Creek clean-up in Golden Valley and at Mississippi River?
• Oct 14 - Water ceremony on Indigenous Peoples' Day. Maybe with the City, BCWMC,
VCPC, HHM, Breck, GVHS, etc
Brief summary of suggested activities from the City's joint commission meeting in October 2024
• Dual naming for creek: verbal, written, signage.
• Commission ask City Council to formally recognize Dakota name & support using dual
language.
• Host community forum.
• Pursue community service, like a creek clean-up.
• Partner on 2024 water ceremony.
• For land back, review remnant City property to return to Tribes or co-manage
Next steps
City:
•Ask commissions to explore next steps for raising awareness of the creek's Dakota
name, like updating the City's communications style guide (if relevant), requesting that
the City Council formally recognize the name, etc.
•Explore adding support for Ȟaȟa Wakpadaŋ efforts to their commission's 2024 Work
Plans.
•Explore hosting a community forum.
BCWMC:
•Check dates for inviting Crystal to present to BCWMC.
•Continue to incorporate Ȟaȟa Wakpadaŋ into the updated watershed map, 2025
Watershed Management Plan, and forthcoming living waters acknowledgement
statement.
Crystal Boyd:
•Keep partners informed about opportunities for joint education & outreach.
•Update cultural advisors about interest from the City and BCWMC.
•Continue emphasizing Indigenous history and consider how to share history about Joel
Bassett.
Ȟaȟa Wakpadaŋ Celebration
November 11, 2023
Organizer: Hennepin History Museum
Site Host: Valley Community Presbyterian Church
Funder: St. Anthony Falls Heritage Board
Welcome!
Welcome and Invocation – Bradley Blackhawk,
Cultural Advisor
Greetings from Hennepin History Museum –
John Crippen, Executive Director
Land Acknowledgement – Jennifer Biggs, VCPC
Task Force Lead
Meeting Orientation – Crystal Boyd, Project
Manager
Land Acknowledgement
Valley Community Presbyterian Church sits on the ancestral and
contemporary land of the Dakota people, for whom the land holds
historical, spiritual, political, and cultural significance.
We acknowledge the ongoing injustices that we have committed
against the Dakota people and pledge to interrupt this legacy. We
will educate ourselves about Indigenous history and recognize,
support, and advocate for our Native neighbors.
Meeting Orientation
Restrooms
Men and Women – across the hall, past the stairs, to the left
Unisex / Family / Handicap - downstairs
Elevator
Across the hall, past the stairs, take a left, then take a right
Families
Dakota coloring pages
Kid’s corner
Meeting Orientation
Friendly Volunteers
Please wave!
We’re happy to help.
Lunch
Meal
Bison, chicken, or vegetarian black bean bowls
Roasted sweet potatoes, kale, toasted pumpkin seeds, red onion,
cranberry drizzle
Dessert
Sun cookies (vegan, gluten -free, dairy-free)
Free-will donation (totally optional)
Agenda
Welcome
Project Updates
Quick Review
Partner Updates
Discussion
Lunch!
Project Updates
Quick review
Mississippi River = Ȟaȟa Wakpda = Falls River
Bassett Creek = Ȟaȟa Wakpadaŋ = Falls Creek
Project Updates
Quick review
9 cities:
•Plymouth
•Medicine Lake
•Minnetonka
•New Hope
•Crystal
•Robbinsdale
•Golden Valley
•St. Louis Park
•Minneapolis
Project Updates
Quick review
2021:
VCPC wrote land acknowledgement statement
Project Updates
Quick review
2021:
VCPC wrote land acknowledgement statement
2022:
VCPC secured a Legacy Amendment grant
Contracted with Dr. Kasey Keeler (Tuolumne Me -Wuk and Citizen
Potawatomi) to conduct the oral history project.
Interviewed 14 Indigenous people connected to the watershed.
Hosted community celebrations and related events.
Project Updates
Quick review
2023:
Hennepin History Museum receives a grant from the St.
Anthony Falls Heritage Board.
Goal: To raise awareness of the creek’s Dakota name
Strategies:
Host community networking opportunities
Conduct outreach and education
Project Updates
Contracted with
Tiana LaPointe
Produced the
Ȟaȟa Wakpadaŋ
pronunciation video
390+ views!
Project Updates
Created the Ȟaȟa Wakpadaŋ Oral
History Podcast
Played 500+ times!
Project Updates
Supported Roxanne Gould and Jim
Rock in organizing the first annual
Ȟaȟa Wakpadaŋ water ceremony
Project Updates
Hosted 3 Listen & Learn sessions
Project Updates
Hosted 9 community meetings
Contacted 70+ community partners
Participated in many one-on-one calls
Partner Updates
2 to 3 minutes each
City of Golden Valley
Loppet Foundation
Bassett Creek Watershed
Management Commission
Partner Updates
2 to 3 minutes each
“Hello, my name is _____.
I’m with _____. Please ask
me about _____!”
Discussion
Next Steps:
What outcomes would you like to see?
Who would you like to see lead this work?
Discussion
What outcomes would you like to see?
Outreach: Articles, museum exhibits
Education: School curriculum, school visits
Arts: Storm drain murals, photography
Events: Water ceremony, Ȟaȟa Wakpadaŋ walk/run
Policy: Approaching golf courses, pursuing official name change
Sharing & celebrating: Presenting at conferences, applying for awards
Administration: Webpage, social media, list-serv
Discussion
Who would you like to see lead this work?
Native-led
Ally-led in collaboration with Native cultural
advisors
Advice and feedback welcome!
Transition to Lunch
Guiding Thoughts – Cathee Vick, Cultural Advisor
Questions?
Contact us!
crystalboydconsulting@gmail.com
Visit Hennepin History Museum!
Thursdays & Friday, 10 – 3
Saturdays 10 – 5
Research library by appointment
2303 Third Avenue South, Minneapolis
Date: January 18, 2022
To: Environmental Commission
From: Annie Knoll, GreenCorps Member
Ethan Kehrberg, Sustainability Specialist
Subject: GreenStep Cities Best Practice Action 6.5
The City is reporting the completion of the GreenStep Cities Best Practice Action 6.5 (2 stars) –
Adopt climate mitigation and/or energy independence goals and objectives in the
comprehensive plan or in a separate policy document and include transportation
recommendations such as becoming an EV-ready city.
The City of Golden Valley adopted an Energy Action Plan in 2021 with the goals to eliminate
65,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions, add an estimated $8.8 million in first-year energy
savings, and help households most severely impacted by the costs of energy over the next ten
years. The other focus areas of the plan are reducing high and severe energy cost burden,
improving energy efficiency, and supporting clean energy, which also includes preparing for
electric vehicles. Progress reports for the Energy Action Plan are published on the Energy
webpage of Golden Valley’s website.
After discussion staff requests that the Commission consider making a motion to approve the
update to the City’s Land Use Best Practice 6.5 (2 stars) for submission to the GreenStep Cities
program.
Date: January 18, 2022
To: Environmental Commission
From: Annie Knoll, GreenCorps Member
Subject: GreenStep Cities Best Practice Action 13.1
The City is reporting the completion of the GreenStep Cities Best Practice Action 13.1 (2 stars) –
Efficiently use your existing fleet of city vehicles by encouraging trip bundling, video
conferencing, carpooling, vehicle sharing and incentives/technology. Achieving two-star level
recognition requires the installation and use of video conferencing equipment, automatic
vehicle location technology, and other similar measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
from vehicles.
In the past year, the City of Golden Valley has upgraded conference room technology at City
Hall to enhance accessibility to webinars and video conferences and enable seamless
collaboration between remote teams. The City’s expansion of flexible work arrangements
(FWAs) for employees also allows telework and working outside of core business hours, such as
a 40-hour workweek condensed into fewer than five workdays. These policy changes, along
with the transition to workstations more conducive to telework (laptops and phones), reduce
energy consumption and emissions by staff. The City also has a no-idling policy for fleet vehicles
to reduce emissions. The first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle has been purchased for the city
fleet, but delivery of the vehicle is not expected until later in 2024 or 2025.
After discussion staff requests that the Commission consider making a motion to approve the
update to the City’s Land Use Best Practice 13.1 (2 stars) for submission to the GreenStep Cities
program.
Date: January 19, 2024
To: Environmental Commission
From: Annie Knoll, GreenCorps Member
Subject: GreenStep Cities Best Practice Action 18.1
The City is reporting the completion of the GreenStep Cities Best Practice Action 18.1 (1 star) – Make
improvements within your city's system of parks, off-road trails and open spaces. Implementing at
least one improvement project within a city's system of parks, off-road trails, and open spaces meets
the criteria for one-star level recognition.
In 2021, the City of Golden Valley began making amenity updates and stormwater improvements to
Medley Park. The project includes opportunities for community engagement to help guide the design
of the new stormwater facilities and the associated landscaping and amenities in this valuable park
and open space. It expands flood storage areas within the project area (approximately 2.5 acres of
existing park area) adjacent to the existing Medley Pond and provides additional water quality
treatment for total suspended solids and total phosphorus.
The primary benefits of this project are improving the water quality of Medicine Lake and nearby
surface waters, reducing flood damage to homes and infrastructure, protecting public health and
safety, and preserving economic value. Additional benefits include improving ecological diversity and
wildlife habitat, including pollinators, enhancing active and passive recreation opportunities, and
providing educational opportunities to park users.
A highlight of the project is the Medley Park Community Garden, an ADA-accessible garden
comprised of 40 raised garden containers measuring 4’ x 12’, surrounded by a 10-foot-high fence. All
registered gardeners have access to a shared tool shed, planting tables, carts, and water. Container
soil, organics-derived compost, and plant/weed compost bins are also provided.
This project created approximately 8.8 acre-feet of additional flood storage for residents. This
increased community resilience by lowering flood levels to a point where six structures are no longer
at-risk of flooding in the 100-year storm event, and five structures are no longer at-risk of flooding in
the 25-year event.
The project also removes an additional 16.4 pounds of phosphorus per year, adds 1.2 acres of open
water habitat, and restores 0.6 acres of wetland prairie and 0.6 acres of upland prairie habitat.
Disturbed trails were replaced with a looped ADA accessible paved trail to provide active recreation
and habitat viewing opportunities for park users and to provide maintenance access.
After discussion staff requests that the Commission consider making a motion to approve the update
to the City’s Land Use Best Practice 18.1 (1 star) for submission to the GreenStep Cities program.
Date: January 18, 2022
To: Environmental Commission
From: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor
Subject: 2024 Work Plan – Evaluate Current Plans
As stated in its bylaws, the Commission is required to develop an annual work plan for review
and approval by City Council. The Commission’s draft work plan for 2024 will likely be based
upon goals and priorities outlined in the City’s 2024 Pyramid of Success (council goals), 2040
Comprehensive Plan (including Resilience & Sustainability, Natural Resources, Water Resources,
Transportation), Energy Action Plan, Equity Plan, Pollinator Protection Resolution, Climate
Emergency Declaration, GreenStep Cities Program, and City Council’s 2024 Legislative Priorities.
Staff will share more information about the work plan content and format, and help facilitate
discussion and prioritization at the February and March meetings, ahead of the April council
work session.
As we prepare for the 2024 work plan discussion, it’s helpful to understand and evaluate the
progress to date. Attached are current environmental planning documents with staff comments
on the status of each implementation action. Staff will be on hand at the January meeting to
discuss and answer questions.
BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS /2022 Annual Report 7
2023 PROPOSED WORK PLAN
Proposed work plan priorities for 2023 are based on goals in the City’s 2023 Pyramid of Success, 2040 Com-
prehensive Plan (including Resilience & Sustainability, Natural Resources, Water Resources, Transportation),
Equity Plan, Energy Action Plan, Pollinator Protection Resolution, Climate Emergency Declaration, GreenStep
&LWLHV3URJUDPDQG&LW\&RXQFLOoV/HJLVODWLYH3ULRULWLHV
RECYCLING AND ORGANICS
• Help develop a plan to increase participation rates for
organics recycling and opportunities for multi-family
UHF\FOLQJLQFOXGLQJRUJDQLFVDQGRQVLWHFRPSRVWLQJ
• Work with Hennepin County to help develop and implement
its Zero Waste Plan and explore ways to host zero waste
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•6HHNRSSRUWXQLWLHVWRSDUWQHUZLWKQRQSURƮWVDQGRWKHUV
to reduce Styrofoam and single use plastics, bags,
and containers (restaurants, stores, etc), and explore
LPSOHPHQWLQJDSRWHQWLDOFLW\ZLGHIHHRQFHUWDLQSURGXFWV
• Start to research and engage the public in 2024 about
City-contracted solid waste and yard waste services
EHJLQQLQJLQRUODWHU
ENERGY ACTION
Help guide and participate in implementing the City’s Energy Action Plan, including:
• monitoring and reporting on the progress of Xcel Energy’s Partners In Energy community collaboration
program
• reducing the number of households experiencing energy cost burden
by 24 households through identifying, communicating, and connecting
SHRSOHZLWKSURJUDPVRƬHUHGE\XWLOLW\FRPSDQLHVDQGRWKHUV
•LQFUHDVLQJSDUWLFLSDWLRQLQHQHUJ\HƱFLHQF\SURJUDPVIRUUHVLGHQWVDQG
businesses, which includes:
• monitoring and enhancing the new energy hero recognition program
IRUEXVLQHVVHV
• extending the Residential Home Energy Squad program for another
budget cycle, and/or shift funds over to business energy assessments
and audits
Photo by Jennifer Schmidt, Photo Posse
DONE
REVIEWED AND SUPPORTED PLAN; EXPLORED; HOSTED SMALL EVENT
DISCUSS IN 2024
DISCUSS IN 2024
DONE
DONE
RESIDENTIAL- DONE; BUSINESS- DISCUSS IN 2024
DISCUSS IN 2024
8 City of Golden Valley
2023 PROPOSED WORK PLAN
• exploring options for promoting, supporting, and developing renewable energy (solar) and electric vehicles
and charging infrastructure, which includes:
• hosting the second EV showcase event at City Hall in June
2023 (including electric lawn equipment) and exploring interest
in a sustainable home tour (solar, electric heat pumps, etc)
• exploring options to add rooftop solar to Brookview
Golden Valley
• increasing EVs and expanding charging infrastructure in the
community (including legislation to clarify state law, city code
updates, development standards, grants)
•VXSSRUWLQJVWDWHDQGORFDOHƬRUWVWRXSGDWHEXLOGLQJFRGHVRU
standards that advance energy performance in buildings
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• Continue working on actions and metrics to address climate-related impacts, improve the environment,
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• If awarded a MN GreenCorps Member in 2023-2024, work to complete GreenStep Cities actions related to
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• Look for ways to partner with Hennepin County to implement its Climate Action Plan, with a focus on
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•:RUNZLWKHPHUJHQF\PDQDJHPHQWVWDƬWRLGHQWLI\SXEOLFZDUPLQJDQGFRROLQJFHQWHUVDQGZD\VWR
FRPPXQLFDWHVXFKLQIRUPDWLRQWRWKHFRPPXQLW\
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
• Continue to partner with the DEIC on joint projects, events, and forums through a subcommittee formed
LQ&ROODERUDWLRQZLOOLQFOXGH
• co-hosting a Building An Equitable Golden Valley forum to recognize Indigenous people, culture,
and contributions in November 2023 (Native American Heritage Month)
• discussing the drafting of an environmental justice resolution to include the environmental justice
priority areas map
• identifying a partner and sponsoring one green infrastructure project or event in a priority area
• helping implement the land acknowledgment action plan by creating a pre-contact (pre-European
settlement) map of natural and cultural resources, and working with Dakota community members to
identify a location for a cultural/educational installation in the city
DONE
DISCUSS IN 2024
DISCUSS IN 2024
DONE
DONE
DONE
MET, ID'D CENTERS, COMMUNICATION IN 2024
PLANNING FOR 2024
DISCUSS IN 2024
2024
CONTINUE TO DISCUSS IN 2024; POSSIBLE
COLLAB W DEIC AND BCWMC
BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS / 2022 Annual Report 9
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
• Review City website for environmental
content and clarity, better promotion
of green volunteer programs, and best
practices for yards and gardens while
ensuring web pages are inclusive,
equitable, and representative of the
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• Use the Commission’s $3,500 budget
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• funding a joint project, event, or forum with the DEIC
• helping to equitably fund the purchase and planting of trees to replace ash trees lost
due to emerald ash borer
WATER AND NATURAL RESOURCES
• &RQWLQXHSURPRWLQJHGXFDWLRQDORSSRUWXQLWLHVLQFRRSHUDWLRQZLWKWKH*ROGHQ9DOOH\*DUGHQ&OXE
• Continue to study ways to mitigate the loss of infested ash trees due to the emerald ash borer pest,
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• Address the issue of human encroachment into nature areas, and signage, as each area is enhanced
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• Explore and understand water use in the community; look into conservation measures like a lawn
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• ([SORUHWKHNHHSLQJRIKRQH\EHHVDQGPDNHUHFRPPHQGDWLRQWR&RXQFLO
2023 PROPOSED WORK PLAN
2024 W/ GREENCORPS
DONE
LATER 2024
DONE
DONE
DISCUSS IN 2024
DISCUSS IN 2024
DONE
10 City of Golden Valley
TRANSPORTATION
• Work with Open Space & Recreation
Commission to review Luce Line Trail
connection under Highway 169 to Plymouth
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• Support and contribute to the City’s Bus
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• Provide input to Planning on its proposed
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Photo by Clara Alexander, Views of the Valley 2022
2023 PROPOSED WORK PLAN
DISCUSS IN 2024
DONE
DISCUSS IN 2024
Chapter 7: Resilience And Sustainability7-31
City of Golden Valley 2040 Comprehensive Plan
Action Estimated Cost Time Frame
Promote And Develop Clean, Renewable Energy
Include information on renewable energy opportunities in City communications $Ongoing
Perform a solar ordinance review/update on a regular basis $Ongoing
Work with private sector partners to identify opportunities $Ongoing
Advance to Step 5 or the highest level in the GreenStep Cities program $$0–5 years
Participate in existing energy or climate technical assistance program $$5–10 years
Complete a City operations greenhouse gas inventory $$5–10 years
Complete a City-wide climate action plan $$10–20 years
Improve Energy Efficiency In Buildings, Lighting, And Infrastructure
Incorporate efficiency upgrades into the capital improvement program (CIP) and City budgets $$$Ongoing
Create a green building guide $5–10 years
Incentivize enhanced energy and water efficiency on private properties $$5–10 years
Adopt language to govern sustainable private development and renovation projects $$10–20 years
Promote Waste Reduction, Recycling, And Composting
Host zero-waste City events $0–5 years
Adopt waste reduction goals for internal City operations $$ 0–5 years
Complete a community-wide zero-waste study $$ 5–10 years
Adopt a waste reduction plan $$ 5–10 years
Protect And Enhance The Natural Environment
Complete neighborhood-specific engagement process $0–5 years
Review and update City Code $0–5 years
Create and implement a Buckthorn Management Program, including consideration of state and local regula-
tions
$0–5 years
Increase native species planted along streets and publicly owned parking lots $$Ongoing
Budget to maintain present level of urban canopy coverage and tree loss citywide $$0–5 years
Update Natural Resource Management Plan to support resilience $5–10 years
Create and fund annual city-wide restoration event $$5–10 years
Analyze and improve existing vegetation and green space $$5–10 years
Fund and implement updated Natural Resource Management Plan $$$10–20 years
Plan For Resilient And Sustainable Infrastructure
Research strategies to lower emissions related to City fleet $0–5 years
Incorporate resilient infrastructure into the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)$$$Ongoing
Incentivize enhanced stormwater management on private properties $5–10 years
Install alternative fuel/charging stations on a City campus $$5–10 years
Create appropriate green infrastructure design standards $$5–10 years
Increase Community Resilience And Preparedness
Include information on community resilience in City communications $Ongoing
Complete a ready and resilient guide $0–5 years
Host community workshops on resilience $$0–5 years
Create annual sustainability and resilience focused publication $5–10 years
Develop a volunteer community preparedness program $10–20 years
Summary Of Implementation Actions
DONE
NOT SINCE 2020
DONE
DONE
DONE
NOT PROGRAMMED
DONE IN GS CITIES FORMAT ONLY
DONE
DONE
ENERGY- DONE H.E.S.; WATER- DONE (EYE ON)
FOR PUDS AND R3 BONUS
ORGANICS, BUT NO SPECIFIC GOALS/METRICS
NOT PROGRAMMED
NOT PROGRAMMED
PARKS AND OSRC DOES THIS
DONE
PARTIALLY DONE
DONE
DONE
NOT PLANNED
NOT PLANNED
ON PROJECT BASIS
NOT PLANNED OR PROGRAMMED
PLANNED WITH PW CAMPUS
YES AND NEED MORE DISCUSSION
SOME, MORE PLANNED
DONE, BUT MORE NEEDED; CLARIFY ST LAW
NOT PLANNED
SOME; MORE NEEDED
NOT COMPLETED
NOT PLANNED
NOT PLANNED
NOT PLANNED
DONE - SMALL EVENTS; NEED TO HOST BIG EVENTS
Chapter 6: Parks And Natural Resources6-31
City of Golden Valley 2040 Comprehensive Plan
Action Relative Cost Time Frame
Preserve Parks And Acquire Additional Land
Capital Reinvestment
Replace aging infrastructure (bleachers, signage, scoreboards, etc) throughout the park system $$ 0–5 years
Update and/or upgrade facilities to serve the needs of athletes, athletic teams, and the wider community $$$ Ongoing
Implement plan to upgrade internal park trails $$$ Ongoing
Implement plan to reconstruct athletic facilities $$$ Ongoing
Technology Upgrades
Replace outdoor park lighting with energy efficient LED systems $$$ Ongoing
Efficient Facility Use
Add off-leash pet exercise areas $$ 0–5 years
Add community gardens $$ 0–5 years
Consider small additions to Wesley, Scheid, and Lions Park shelter buildings for expanded community use $$$ 5–10 years
Program the unused portion of Isaacson Park $ 5–10 years
Expand parking at Scheid Park $$ 10–20 years
Reduce asphalt in park areas whenever appropriate $ Ongoing
Shift to a regional approach of multiple tennis courts at fewer locations $$$ 5–10 years
Evaluate additional park amenity options $$$ 10–20 years
Partnerships To Expand Amenities
Implement a five-year Capital Improvement Plan with Sochacki Park JPA partners for park areas used dur-
ing LRT construction
$ 0–5 years
Expansion Of Park System
Evaluate opportunities to secure private properties and easements that add to or improve park locations $$$ Ongoing
Secure land for a new neighborhood park in the southeast corner of the city $$$ 10–20 years
Deliver Recreation And Education Opportunities
Evaluate Programs
Monitor outdoor ice rink attendance for future decisions on staffed park locations $ 0–5 years
Enhance Programs
Grow all-day summer and school break youth opportunities to meet the needs of families in Golden Valley $ 0–5 years
Continue to grow and promote healthy-lifestyle, low-impact active opportunities $ Ongoing
Continue to grow and promote healthy-lifestyle, low-impact passive opportunities $ Ongoing
Expand adult athletic league options as trends change and facilities grow $ Ongoing
Explore New Opportunities
Grow mobile playground program to meet the needs of the changing demographics in Golden Valley neigh-
borhoods
$ Ongoing
Work with Sochacki Park JPA partners to implement year-round outdoor recreation and education pro-
grams, classes, and events at Sochacki Park
$ Ongoing
Expand opportunities at Brookview, including public art, cooking classes, and entertainment $ Ongoing
Develop a more diverse group of recreation options for the aging Baby Boomer generation $ Ongoing
Expand recreation programs, classes, and events at neighborhood locations in conjunction with the park
shelter building improvements
$ 5–10 years
Summary Of Implementation Actions
continued on pg 32
REPLACED TRAIL LIGHTS AT MEDLEY WITH PROGRAMMABLE SOLAR
DONE AT MEDLEY, ORGANICS-BASED COMPOST DELIVERED
PROGRAMMED FOR WATER QUALITY IMPROVEMENTS
DONE AT PENN WOODS, WILDWOOD, 23RD & WINNETKA,
NUMEROUS PRIVATE DEVELOPMENTS
Chapter 6: Parks And Natural Resources 6-32
City of Golden Valley 2040 Comprehensive Plan
Action Relative Cost Time Frame
Protect And Enhance Open Spaces And Natural Resources
Address encroachment issues through education, identification, and boundary demarcation $$ 0–5 years
Market and brand the City’s nature areas and open spaces and distinguish them from parks $ 5–10 years
Use or specify native plant material in project on City property
Expand certain nature areas through agreement, easement, or acquisition as opportunities arise
$
$$
Ongoing
5–10 years
Develop a communications/education plan with topics and schedule, and deliver using various media $ 0–5 years
Further develop the City’s volunteer program, including public outreach and citizen participation $$ 5–10 years
Design and install signage (entrance, general wayfinding, and educational) in nature areas and open spaces $$$ 5–10 years
Continue to regulate/enforce natural resource-related laws, codes, and policies $ Ongoing
Develop a maintenance schedule and set of best management practices/procedures for nature areas and
opens spaces
$ 0–5 years
Complete the specific Natural Resource and Amenity Improvements listed in the Natural Resource Manage-
ment Plan in Appendix 6B
$$$ Ongoing
Grow Brookview Golf And Lawn Bowling
Improved Golf And Lawn Bowling Infrastructure
Replace all golf and lawn bowling outdoor signage $$ 0–5 years
Update/replace all golf and lawn bowling maintenance equipment $$$ Ongoing
Construct additional sun/storm shelters on golf course $$ 0–5 years
Increase pollinator plants in and around golf course $ Ongoing
Replace irrigation system $$$$ 10–20 years
Address golf course flooding, including at hole #14 $$$ 5–10 years
Update/reconstruct bunkers on a regular schedule $$ Ongoing
Reassess future of driving range building $$$ 10–20 years
Update golf maintenance building to implement all environmentally appropriate practices for golf course
management
$$ Ongoing
Develop and implement a goose management plan $ Ongoing
Develop tee box and green reconstruction plans/schedules $$ Ongoing
New And Improved Revenue Streams
Extend golf course and driving range season into the late fall/early winter $ Ongoing
Grow lawn bowling leagues and promote recreational play for all ages $ Ongoing
Continue to grow winter recreation opportunities on the golf course $ Ongoing
Expand youth golf programs and opportunities $ Ongoing
Expand year-round site opportunities for more use by residents $ Ongoing
Summary Of Implementation Actions (cont’d)
DONE AT BASSETT CREEK NA, NEED MORE
DONE AT GEORGIA OPEN SPACE
DONE AT SEVERAL LOCATIONS
SEE ABOVE UNDER PARKS
DONE
DONE
DONE IN A FEW NA'S
DONE
NOT COMPLETE
DONE IN 3 NA'S
DONE AROUND CAMPUS, 6 PONDS, AND SOME STREAMBANK
Chapter 5: Water Resources5-43
City of Golden Valley 2040 Comprehensive Plan
Strategy Estimated Cost Time Frame
Sustain And Improve Water Quality
Support water quality monitoring efforts $ Ongoing
Cooperate with neighboring cities regarding wellhead protection programs and activities $ Ongoing
Share groundwater elevation data with the BCWMC $ Ongoing
Continue requiring stormwater runoff infiltration practices be implemented $ Ongoing
Prioritize projects that are most effective at achieving water quality goals $$ Ongoing
Implement improvement projects identified in the BCWMC’s capital improvement program $$$ Ongoing
Implement BMPs that reduce phosphorus loading to receiving water within the MCWD $$$ Ongoing
Maintain And Rehabilitate Infrastructure
Transition to the Infrastructure Renewal Program (IRP) $$$ 0–5 years
Provide long-term and sustainable funding for rehabilitation and maintenance $$$ Ongoing
Address infrastructure funding in the City’s legislative priorities $ 0–5 years
Continue to reduce the inflow and infiltration of clear water into sanitary sewer system $$$ Ongoing
Research ways that emerging technologies can reduce life cycle costs $ 0–5 years
Protect And Enhance Aquatic Resources
Update shoreland management zoning regulations $ 0–5 years
Implement Stormwater Management Plan and Natural Resource Management Plan $$$ 0–5 years
Develop wetland performance standards $ 0–5 years
Increase the amount of native vegetation buffers that include pollinator habitat $$ 0–5 years
Encourage landowners to protect non-disturbed shoreland areas $ 0–5 years
Reduce The Risk And Impact Of Floods
Evaluate known and potential flood issues $ Ongoing
Continue to implement floodplain management zoning regulations $ Ongoing
Design new municipal stormwater facilities based on Atlas 14 precipitation data $ Ongoing
Perform routine inspection, maintenance, and repair of BCWMC Flood Control Project (FCP) features $$$ Ongoing
Implement damage reduction and flood-proofing projects $$$ Ongoing
Obtain land dedication and easements for flood storage $ Ongoing
Ensure Systems Capacity Meets Future Needs
Continue to incorporate infrastructure considerations with land use decisions $ Ongoing
Monitor accuracy of growth forecasts $ Ongoing
Work with the JWC to monitor water supply needs $ Ongoing
Balance Water Usage And Conservation
Continue the meter maintenance program $$$ Ongoing
Monitor unmetered water use $$ Ongoing
Maintain a program of water reduction measures for emergencies $ Ongoing
Research options for tiered water pricing to reduce water demand $ 5–10 years
Adopt an ordinance governing installation and operation of commercial landscape irrigation systems $ 5–10 years
Enact an education program to inform public about water conservation $ 0–5 years
Involve And Educate The Public In Water Resource Management
Implement a volunteer program $ 0–5 years
Develop education materials about stormwater management techniques $ 0–5 years
Cooperate with efforts of the other agencies that educate the general public $ Ongoing
Summary Of Implementation Actions
DONE
DONE
DONE
DONE
DONE
DONE
DONE
2025
DONE
DONE
DONE AND NEED TO DO MORE
ONGOING
NOT COMPLETED
ONGOING
DONE, ADDED TO CODE IN 2023
DONE IN SEVERAL LOCATIONS
DONE
DONE
DONE
PLANNED FOR 2025
DONE
DONE
DONE
DONE
DONE
NEED TO REVIEW AGAIN
DONE
DONE
DONE
FOLLOW STATE AND MPLS PLAN
NEED TO VERIFY
DONE
DONE
DONE
DONE
Golden Valley Energy Action Plan 5
These programs are summarized below in Table 1.
Table 1: Additional Energy Efficiency Initiatives Supported by Golden Valley
Updates to the Statewide Commercial Building Energy Code
One of the City’s 2021 Legislative priorities is to support the advancement of energy code
standards at the state or local level for new commercial buildings. In December 2020, the
Department of Labor and Industry and the Department of Commerce released a report
titled Improving building energy efficiency in commercial and multifamily construction . With
input from experts and stakeholders, the report recommends instituting a framework for the
statewide commercial building energy code that ensures that all new commercial and large
multifamily construction is net-zero by 2036. Legislation will be proposed. The City will
monitor this legislation and may consider signing a letter of support.
Hennepin County Efficient Buildings Collaborative
This potential initiative brings together the County, Cities, and owners of large buildings to do
energy benchmarking. This will help owners understand the efficiency of their buildings in
depth and identify opportunities to improve efficiency and save money.
Green Building Guide
Considering ways to Incentivize the use of Green Building Guide techniques/materials on
residential building permits.
Sustainable Building Policy
May explore a policy for new developments and renovations receiving City financial support
or resources.
There are also several new ideas that have been generated by the Golden Valley Energy Action
Team that are being researched to assess feasibility and projected contribution to our plan’s
goals. These ideas are listed below in Table 2.
Table 2: Additional Ideas Under Consideration
Incentivizing Golden Valley car dealers to sell more EVs
Incentivizing businesses to add EV Chargers
Incentivizing businesses to add solar
Increasing the number of solar/wind permits issued in GV per year over 10 years
Facilitating a community solar garden for residents and others to buy into.
Analysis of off-site solar subscription options for the City.
Our Engagement & Outreach Process
Creating this Energy Action Plan was a five-month process involving support to help
characterize our energy use, identify our energy-related goals, and develop engaging strategies
to help us achieve our vision. A series of five online workshops began on August 25, 2020 and
ended on January 27, 2021. Our planning team committed to representing local energy priorities
in collaboration with City of Golden Valley and Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy. By the
numbers, we engaged 13 participants, representing large and small businesses in Golden
Valley, a service organization, longtime residents, and community members active in several
complementary boards and commissions. We were also fortunate to have a representative from
CenterPoint Energy attend our workshops and offer valuable insights at each step of the
process. See Appendix C: Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy Planning Process for more
information about the planning process and Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy.
DONE
DONE
DONE
CONSIDERED, NOT YET IMPLEMENTED
NOT COMPLETE
ONLY THROUGH PUDS
DONE AT STATE AND FEDERAL LEVEL
DONE
NOT COMPLETE
NOT COMPLETE
Golden Valley Energy Action Plan 36
Finally, support for electric vehicle adoption will gain traction as more manufacturers introduce
and promote them. Golden Valley’s local role can begin ahead of (and assist) rapid adoption.
Energy Action Plan Impact
The combined strategies outlined in this plan will deliver on each of the goals that we have set
forth.
By the end of 2031, assuming that annual participation targets have been met, over 1,900
Golden Valley residents and more than 375 businesses will have participated in programs.
The results of our achieving our goals include:
x Eliminating 65,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions
Successful implementation of this plan will help avoid greenhouse gas emissions from
electricity and natural gas. This will include avoiding over 65 thousand metric tons of
carbon dioxide equivalent by the year 2031. 39 thousand of those will be the result of our
energy efficiency efforts and 26 from meeting our renewable energy targets.
Short-Term Focus Areas (thru 2022)
Mid-Term 2023–2026 Reduce Energy Cost
Burden
Build energy burden
process
Improve Energy
Efficiency
Residential
- Target oldest homes
-Multi-family
Commercial
- Focus on smaller
businesses
Embrace Clean Energy
Support residential adoption
- Subscription options
- Assistance w/ on-site
Build a business pipeline
- Outreach to businesses
whose brands can benefit
- Begin long-term
education initiatives
Combat Energy Burden
Add capabilities
- Languages, advocacy,
team with nonprofits
Improve Energy
Efficiency
Residential
- Extend initiatives to newer
homes
- Consider support for
larger projects
Commercial
- Maintain outreach pace
- Extend to medium
businesses
Embrace Clean Energy
Maintain residential activity
Use testimonials among
similar businesses
Consider municipal
programs to help facilitate
adoption
Long-Term 2027 Ö
Combat Energy Burden
- Assess process, add
capabilities as indicated
o More languages,
predictive analytics
Improve Energy
Efficiency
Residential
- Re-contact early users
with new incentives
- Promote new
technologies
Commercial
- Re-contact early users
with new incentives
Embrace Clean Energy
Maintain residential and
business pace
Extend municipal programs
Support EV adoption
Figure 25: Energy Action Plan Summary
DONE
DONE
DONE
DONE
PROMOTING
NEED MORE FOCUS
DONE
DONE
NOT COMPLETE
NEED MORE FOCUS
DONE
NOT COMPLETE
DISCUSS IN 2024
AFTER 2027
AFTER 2027
AFTER 2027
AFTER 2027
AFTER 2027
AFTER 2027
DONE
ONGOING
ONGOING
ONGOING
DONE
IMPROVING ANNUALLY
IN PROGRESS
PROPOSED EACH YEAR
ONGOING
CONSIDER
ONGOING
DONE
DONE
PROGRAM/PROJECT UPDATES – January 2024
WATER AND NATURAL RESOURCES
Sanitary Sewer Inflow and Infiltration grants – the City applied for and received two grants to help the City
and private residents rehabilitate their sewers and reduce the amount of clear water entering the sanitary
sewer system. Attached are council memos explaining the two grant programs.
OUTREACH AND EDUCATION
Multifamily Site Visits – staff have been visiting multifamily properties to collect information that will help the
City do more targeted outreach, including descriptions about recycling accessibility, chloride use, stormwater
and green infrastructure, and impact of EAB and tree counts. Information about energy assistance, energy
efficiency assessments, recycling labels and support, and other resources have been shared through a
presentation at the recent STAR meeting and via email with property managers for whom we have contact
information.
Coffee Discussion Presentation – staff will be presenting to the discussion group at Brookview Community
Center on Wednesday, January 24 to have a conversation about energy and transportation in Golden Valley.
Staff will cover a variety of topics including information about renewable energy, energy efficiency, the Energy
Action Plan, alternative transportation and mobility options, and electric vehicles.
WASTE & RECYCLING
Organics Recycling Video – GreenCorps member Annie Knoll recently finished creating an educational video
about organics recycling to encourage Golden Valley residents to participate in the program. You can watch
the video on the City’s YouTube channel or find it on the City’s Organics Recycling webpage. Please share it
with your friends and neighbors!
Participation Studies – The studies are complete and staff will have a full report with updated traditional and
organics recycling participation rates and waste stream tonnages available for the Commission in 2024.
Plastic Free Challenge – Join Hennepin County’s Plastic-Free Challenge, a month-long effort starting February
1 to reduce plastic consumption, specifically single-use plastics. The challenge has 86 actions to choose from in
eight categories. Sign up online and create your profile, then browse the categories and actions, check off
actions you already take, and select up to five one-time actions and five daily actions to make progress on
during the four-week challenge. Learn more and sign up with Team Golden Valley at
tcplasticfree.ecochallenge.org.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Community Development
763-512-2345 / 763-512-2344 (fax)
Golden Valley City Council Meeting
January 16, 2024
Agenda Item
3C.1. Adopt Resolution No. 24-006 Authorizing Application for the 2023 Metropolitan Council
Environmental Services (MCES) Municipal Publicly Owned Infrastructure Inflow/Infiltration (I&I) Grant
Program
Prepared By
RJ Kakach, PE, Assistant City Engineer
Summary
The Minnesota Legislature appropriated $12,000,000 in 2023 for the MCES Public Infrastructure
Inflow/Infiltration Grant program. The purpose of this program is to provide reimbursement to
municipalities for capital improvements for public municipal wastewater collection systems, which
reduces the amount of inflow and infiltration into the Metropolitan Council’s sanitary sewer treatment
system. The 2023 grant program is for eligible expenses incurred by the City in 2024 and 2025.
The City has participated in this grant program dating back to 2012. The work that is eligible for
reimbursement under this program includes lining of public sewer mains, manhole rehabilitation,
casting replacement, and wye lining, which are all included in the Golden Valley Inflow and Infiltration
Reduction Program.
In reviewing the Capital Improvement Program through the 2024 and 2025 construction season, staff
anticipates spending approximately $2M in inflow and infiltration repair and replacement. Of that, up
to $1M is eligible for reimbursement. The actual amount will be based on how many other cities
apply for the grant and City of Golden Valley dollars actually spent on inflow and infiltration reduction
improvements between now and the end of 2025.
Grant applications are due by January 26, 2024. MCES will notify the City of their preliminary
minimum allocation amount by the end of February 2024. Reimbursement for the grant will take place
in Q2 of 2026. Staff recommends application for the reimbursement grant directly related to inflow
and infiltration reduction improvements in the City’s municipal sanitary sewer lines.
Financial or Budget Considerations
The city's 2024-2033 Capital Improvement Program earmarked approximately $2M for inflow and
infiltration reduction. The actual amount the City is eligible for will be announced by MCES on
February 29, 2024 with final reimbursement in 2026.
Legal Considerations
Staff will work with the City Attorney to review the draft grant agreement once received by the State
and will go before council sometime in Q2 of 2026. The MCES grant agreement should be similar to
past agreements associated with the MCES Inflow and Infiltration Publicly Owned Infrastructure
Inflow/Infiltration Grant Program
Equity Considerations
The MCES grant for I&I public infrastructure investment satisfies Pillar 3 of the Equity Plan Pillars by
providing unbiased programs and services to all.
Recommended Action
Motion to adopt Resolution No. 24-006 authorizing application for the 2023 MCES Municipal Publicly
Owned Infrastructure Inflow/Infiltration Grant Program.
Supporting Documents
MCES I&I Grant Resolution.docx
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Public Works
763-512-2345 / 763-512-2344 (fax)
Golden Valley City Council Meeting
December 5, 2023
Agenda Item
3C.1. Adopt Resolution No. 23-100 to Approve Participation in the Metropolitan Council
Environmental Services (MCES) 2024 Private Property Inflow and Infiltration (I/I) Grant Program
Prepared By
Tim Kieffer, Public Works Director
Summary
The Metropolitan Council Environmental Services (MCES) will be offering 81 eligible cities a limited
number of grants to assist residents with I/I defects within their private sanitary sewer lateral. To
qualify for this program, residents must receive an initial inspection from the city and complete
rehabilitation measures of their sewer before December 31, 2024.
The grant program will end when the MCES budget of $1,500,000 has been allocated. When the
program terminates, participating cities will be notified. The City will serve as the Grant Administrator
for the funds.
To apply, the City needs to adopt a resolution agreeing to participate in the program, confirm that it
will adhere to certain project management criteria, and identify a city officer that is authorized to
submit the Grant Program Work Verification form.
The deadline for the application is December 15, 2023.
Financial or Budget Considerations
There are no budgetary impacts. The City will be required to pay the contractor before submitting
reimbursement from MCES on a quarterly basis. The City is requesting $250,000 in grant funding.
Legal Considerations
The City Attorney has reviewed and approved the resolution and agreement.
Equity Considerations
Applicants must be homeowner(s) with a house value below $529,750, which is 125% of the median
house value according to the most recent data from the Metropolitan Council. For the first six months,
the program will be promoted to homeowners making $83,600 or less, or 0-80% of the median
household income. Applicants qualifying under these two requirements will have repairs funded 100%
up to $10,000. Starting July 1, 2024, the program will be available to the rest of the qualifying
homeowners at 50% up to $5,000.
Recommended Action
Motion to Adopt Resolution No. 23-100 to Approve Participation in the Metropolitan Council
Environmental Services (MCES) 2024 Private Property Inflow and Infiltration (I/I) Grant Program.
Supporting Documents
Resolution to Approve Participation in the Metropolitan Council Environmental Services (MCES)
2024 Private Property Inflow and Infiltration (I/I) Grant Program
Private Property Inflow and Infiltration Grant Program Application
Metropolitan Council 2024 Private Property Inflow and Infiltration (I/I) Grant Agreement
Private Property Inflow & Infiltration Grant Requirements, Guidelines, and Timeline