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2016-12-19 EC Agenda Packet AGENDA GOLDEN VALLEY ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION December 19, 2016, Monday @ 6:30pm Golden Valley City Hall, 7800 Golden Valley Rd Council Conference Room (across from Council Chambers) 1. Call to Order 2. Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes of November 28, 2016 (10 min) 3. Sustainability& Resilience Plan update (15 min) 4. GreenStep Cities BP#29—Action 5, 2 Star Rating—Assess City-owned buildings and sites for vulnerabilities to extreme weather (20 min) (Action requested) 5. GreenStep Cities Inventory- Best Practices 10, 16, 18 and 26 (45 min) (Action requestedJ 6. Program/Project Updates (15 min) 7. Commission Member Council Reports (5 min) 8. Council Updates (5 min) 9. Other Business 10. Adjourn This document is available in alternate formats upon a 72-hour request. Please call 763-593-8006 (TTY: 763-593-3968)to make a request. Examples of alternate formats may include large print, electronic, Braille, audiocassette, etc. GOLDEN VALLEY ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION Regular Meeting, Minutes November 28, 2016 Commissioners Present: Lynn Gitelis, Dawn Hill, Debra Yahle, Tonia Galonska, Tracy Anderson, Jim Stremel, Larry Johnson, and Council Member Larry Fonnest Staff Present: Eric Eckman, Public Works Specialist and Hannah Garry, GreenCorps Member Absent: None Call to Order Lynn Gitelis called the meeting to order at 6:30 pm. Approval of Reqular Meetinq Minutes MOVED by Hill, SECONDED by Yahle, and the motion carried unanimously to approve the minutes of the October 24, 2016 regular meeting. Determination of December Environmental Commission Meetinq "'`` The next Environmental Commission Meeting is scheduled for December 26, 2016. City Hall will be closed in observance of Christmas. �taff suggested two alternative dates of December 19th and December 12t". After discussion, the Commission agreed to December 19, 2016 as the next scheduled Environmental Commission Meeting. Resilience and Sustainabilitv Plan Update Eckman explained the City received an environmental assistance grant from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to hire a consultant to assist in the development of a Resilience and Sustainability Plan. Once completed the plan will be included in the City's 2040 Comprehensive Plan. The Environmental Commission identified this project as its top priority in the 2016 annual work plan. The City completed a request for proposals process and selected Great Plains Institute as its consultant to help guide the planning process and draft the plan. Staff then explained the proposal process and listed the project deliverables: • Inventory of existing conditions (risk & vulnerability assessment) • Completion of GreenStep Cities actions related to the inventory • Community engagement strategy and facilitation • Develop vision, goals, objectives, and strategies • Draft the plan Staff then gave an overview of the project schedule • November 2016 — January 2017: Existing conditions inventory/assessmer�t • January 2017: Meet with the Environmental Commission • February 2017: Community/stakeholder meeting • March —April 2017: Develop goals, objectives, policies, and strategies • April 2017: Meet with the Environmental Commission • May— June 2017: Draft the Plan • June— July 2017 Review Plan with Environmental Commission G:\Environmental Commission\Minutes�2016\11 -November\112816 Minutes.doc Minutes of the Environmental Commission November 28, 2016 Page 2 of 3 The Commission provided suggestions and ideas regarding the community engagement/stakeholder meetings. Staff will provide a monthly update to the Commission and is requesting input and feedback throughout the project. Best Practice 29 Climate Adaption and Communitv Resilience Action 5 — Protect Public Buildinas and Natural/Constructed Infrastructure Garry provided the Commission with an overview of best practices 29, Action 5 and the City's proposed entry that meets the 1-star rating. The Commission suq�st� minor revisions including removing the language regarding the municipal pc��r lines: � . MOVED by Hill SECONDED by Johnson and the motion carried unar��mously to Approve Best Practice 29 Climate Adaption and Community Resilience Action 5 — Protect Public Buildings and Natural/Constructed Infrastructure - 1-star rating summary. Mavors' Monarch Pledqe and Bee Citv USA Staff presented information on these two programs that increase awareness and action regarding pollinators and pollinator habitat. The programs were brought to the attention of staff by community members and the Golden Valley Garden Club. Staff reviewed the programs and found that they fit within G#'�enSteps Cities and our existing and planned actions regarding pollinators, habitat, and natural resource education/awareness. The Commission thoughtfully reviewed and discussed the information presented, but ultimately was not able to support the City's participation in the programs for reasons listed below: • The programs were too specific in their focus on only monarchs and bees, rather than all pollinators • Concerns about the po#ential increase in City resources required to administer new programs • Concerns about doing work that furthers the interests and agendas of non-profits (i.e. the National Wildlife Federation in the case of the Mayor's Monarch Pledge) The Comrnission acknowledged the importance of pollinators, habitat, awareness, and reduced pesticide use. They acknowledged that the City has been doing a lot with respect to pollinators recently and that it can continue its good work without the formality of these new programs. The Commission also expressed an interest in possibly creating a more broad policy regarding pollinators in the future if it fits into their work plan. They also expressed their appreciation for the Garden Club's interest in increasing pollinator habitat and awareness. Staff will ensure that the City continues its existing and planned work on pollinators and completes GreenSteps Cities actions without participation in the new programs. The City will continue its relationship with the Garden Club and look for ways to achieve mutually beneficial goals in 2017 and beyond. G:\Environmental Commission\Minutes�2016\11 -November\112816 Minutes.doc Minutes of the Environmental Commission November 28, 2016 Page 3 of 3 MOVED by Hill SECONDED by Anderson and the motion carried to not participate in the Mayors' Monarch Pledge or Bee City USA GreenStep Cities Inventorv Update: Best Practice 1, 4, 10, 16, 18, and 26 The following entries were reviewed, discussed and approved by the Commission with minor revisions. %, `� ����j/ Best Practice 1 — Efficient Existing Public Buildings Action # 1 Enter building information into B3 Benchmarking database ��'��� Action # 2 Make no/low cost indoor lighting and operational changes Action # 5 New construction qualifies under green building framework Best Practice 4 —Efficient Outdoor Lighting and Signals Action # 4 Coordinate traffic signals and/or optimize signal timing so as minimize car idling at intersections yet maintain safe and publicly acceptable vehicle speeds Action # 5 Use LED/solar-powered lighting for a flashing sign or in a street, parking lot or parking project Action # 8 Replace the city's existing traffic signals with LEDs MOVED by Hill SECONDED by Johnson and the motion carried unanimously to approve GreenStep Cities Inventory Update: Best Practices 1 and 4 for entry in the GreenStep Cities website with minor editing and formatting. Proqram/Proiect Updates Staff reviewed with the Commission the Program/Project Updates for November 2016. Commission Member Council Reports None at this time. Council Updates° None at this time. Other Business Adiourn MOVED by Stremel, SECONDED by Anderson and the motion carried to adjourn the meeting at 8:30 pm. G:\Environmental Commission\Minutes�2016\11 -November\112816 Minutes.doc city of,� �1��'� � � � � � � � � � � � �C�, �.'y Physical Development Department � 763-593-8030/763-593-3988(fax) Date: December 15, 2016 To: Environmental Commission From: Eric Eckman, Public Works Specialist Subject: Update on Resilience & Sustainability Plan As part of its monthly update on the Resilience &Sustainability Plan, staff will be discussing the status of the project and gathering feedback from the Commission. Attached is an outline for the existing conditions assessment which will detail the community's risk &vulnerability to a variety of acute and chronic stressors. Staff and the consultant have begun the work of gathering information for the assessment. The results of the assessment will be reviewed and discussed by the Commission in early 2017. G:\Environmental Commission\Memos\Resilience-Sustainability Plan update_1216.docx Golden Valley Resilience Assessment Outline Tree CanopylLand cover Tree Species Native Plantings Rain Gardens/Bio Swales Built Infrastructure Sewer, waterlines, roads, bridges, storm water conveyance Drinking water Transit Routes Bike Routes Low-lying/flood prone areas Storm water Rainwater Containment Impervious surface Population Vulnerability Vulnerable Population Assessment Social Cohesion City Budget Considerations Breakdown of Goods and Services Unemployment rate,jobs most vulnerable Energy B3 Benchmarking for city buildings Community Energy Report Solar Resource City Fleet: MPG, Alternative Fuels Community travel patterns Back-up power for critical infrastructure/facilities Ct t� Of� CJ�C.�C'Yl � � VG�. �.'� Physical Development Department 763-593-8030 J 763-593-3988(fax) Date: December 14, 2016 To: Environmental Commission From: Eric Eckman, Public Works Specialist Hannah Garry, MN GreenCorps Member Subject: Best Practice 29 Climate Adaption and Community Resilience Action 5—Protect Public Buildings and Natural/Constructed Infrastructure At its November 2016 meeting,the Environmental Commission agreed to move ahead to its next priority under GreenStep Cities Best Practice 29, Action #5. This action involves preparing public buildings and infrastructure for extreme weather events that will be brought on by changes to climate. Following is Action #5 and its 2 star rating as they are defined on the GreenStep Cities website. Action#5 Protect public buildings and natural/constructed infrastructure to reduce physical damage and sustain their function during extreme weather events. 2 Star Rating—Assess city-owned buildings and sites for vulnerabilities to extreme weather, and make investments to reduce or prevent damage and sustain function. Below is a draft of this GreenStep action item provided in the website's format. New additions to this entry are marked with double asterisks (**). Please review this for discussion at the November Commission meeting. After discussion, staff requests that the Commission consider making a motion to approve this summary for entry into the GreenStep website. IMPLEMENTATION DETAIL The Physical Development Department implements an on-call system with an emergency "red book" which provides staff with critical maps (including sanitary sewer system, gray/green stormwater infrastructure and water supply mains), procedural information, and contacts during emergency events and disasters. Information in the book is updated on a continuous basis. ** The City conducted a comprehensive facility analysis in 2006 to identify the investments that would be necessary to sustain the structure and function of public buildings in the future. This G:\Environmental Commission\Memos\GS cities BP29 Action 5(2 star)for web assessment is incorporated into the Capital Improvement Plan each year for building improvements. Public buildings are continually assessed for vulnerability to flooding and other structural deficiencies. Additional assessment of public buildings will be performed as part of the City's Resilience and Sustainability planning effort. ** The City is cooperating with the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission to develop a hydrologic and hydraulic model of the watershed. Once completed, this model will be used to identify areas of the City that are at risk of flood damage to assist in planning and preparedness efforts. In partnership with the watershed, the City is engaged in an ongoing effort to stabilize streambanks for erosion control, water quality protection and flood mitigation. As of 2015 the City had 120 miles of street, most of which had been reconstructed under the Pavement Management Plan (PMP) including subgrade correction, installation of curb and gutter, and in some cases, repair and replacement of sanitary sewer and water mains. The PMP emphasizes preservation to maximize the useful life of the street (maintenance measures result in an anticipated pavement lifespan of 50 to 60 years). Golden Valley maintains 113 miles of sanitary sewer (consisting of gravity mains, lift stations, and force mains), 75%of which is over 50 years old. The City also maintains 136 miles of water mains serving the community, 69%of which is over 50 years old. The City has 83 miles of storm sewer pipe, 33 miles of drain tile, 3,083 catch basins, and manages 54 ponds and wetlands, 29 constructed sedimentation basins, and 4 bioretention basins/rain gardens. The City has no municipal power lines. OUTCOME MEASURES/METRICS Several sections of streets within the City have been identified as being at risk of becoming inundated during the 1% annual chance flood event (100-year flood). One utility accessory building has been identified as being at risk of flooding during the 1% annual chance flood event. The City has a flood preparation checklist that lists creek crossings, bridges, culverts and streets for City staff to monitor during large precipitation events. The 2016 FEMA Flood Insurance Study indicates that all bridges/culverts in Golden Valley have the capacity to contain discharge during the 1% annual chance flood event and all but 3 have the capacity to contain discharge during the 0.2% annual chance flood event (500 year flood). As of 2016, the City has restored and stabilized 5.2 miles of shoreline along streams and drainageways. **As of 2016,the City has made investments to repair several roofs on public buildings and park shelters and install a fire suppression system in one building. The City has also made investments to ensure new buildings are built to be durable and resilient to natural hazards. Fourteen (14) of the City's buildings are considered critical facilities. Of these, only 3 do not have back-up generated power. ** DESCRIPTIVE LINKS FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Eric Eckman (Public Works Specialist)/eeckman(a��oldenvalleymn.�ov/763-593-8084 PARTN ERS Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission Joint Water Commission (Crystal, Golden Valley, New Hope) city of�". Q�C��YI � � �� � � A� � � � � . �C�, �`� Physical Development Department 763 593 8030/763 593 3988(fax) Date: December 13, 2016 To: Environmental Commission From: Eric Eckman, Public Works Specialist Hannah Garry, MN GreenCorps Member Subject: GreenStep Cities Inventory Update: Best Practice 10, 16, 18, and 26 Golden Valley gained entry into the GreenStep Cities program in April 2016 and is currently considered a "Step One" city. In order to become a "Step Two" city Golden Valley must document the completion of eight best practices. Each best practice encompasses a variety of actions a city may take. The attached ten entries describe actions that the City has already completed or are ongoing and serve as a way to benchmark Golden Valley for future progress in the GreenStep Cities program. After being rated these entries should be sufficient for completion of Best Practice 10, 16, 18 and 26. Please review these entries for the December Commission meeting. After brief discussion, staff requests that the Commission consider making a motion to approve these for entry into the GreenStep Cities website. Best Practice 10— Design for Natural Resource Conservation Action#5 Develop/fund a conservation easement program Best Practice 16—Urban Forests Action# 1 Certify as a Tree City USA Action#2 Adopt best practices for urban tree planting/quality and use them in development projects Action#3 Budget for urban canopy/tree planting goals Action#6 Certify at least one or more local staff/volunteers G:\Environmental Commission\Memos\GS Cities Update Dec Best Practice 18—Parks and Trails Action #3 Achieve minimum levels of city green space Actiort#5 Create park/city land management practices that maximize sustainability Action#8 Involve community in hands-on land restoration and stewardship Best Practice 26—Renewable Energy Action # 1 Adopt solar energy standards or a wind energy ordinance Action #5 Install a municipally owned renewable energy technology BP 10—Design for Natural Resource Conservation Action#5—Develop/fund a conservation easement program, such as a purchase of development rights program, in collaboration with a land trust • One star: Have placed at least one conservation easement on a parcel • Two star: Develop or participate with others in a conservation easement program • Three star: Adopt a purchase of development rights or transfer of development rights program Golden Valley Entrv Implementation Details: As of 2015 the City has established 13 conservation easements that cover 25 properties. In 2007 the City granted a conservation easement in the General Mills Nature Preserve, encompassing shallow marsh, wet meadow, and floodplain forest,to the Minnesota Land Trust to ensure it would be preserved in perpetuity. Outcome measures/metrics: As of 2016 the City has established 13 conservation easements,totaling 25.7 acres. For more information contact: Eric Eckman, Public Works Specialist eeckman@�oldenvalleymn.gov (763)-593-8084 Descriptive links: Environmental State of the City 2015 http://www.�oldenvalleymn.�ov/boards/environmental/environmental-state-of-the-city-report- 2015.pdf Best Practice 16—Urban Forests Action#1—Certify as a Tree City USA. • One star: Certified for current year • Two star: Certified for 30 or more years,or recent recipient of a Growth award • Three star: Certified for at least 10 years with an annual tree budget(for maintenance, planting, replacements, removals)of at least$4 per resident(twice the Tree City requirement)or have calculated and publicized the financial and other benefits of trees to your city Golden Vallev Entry Implementation details: Golden Valley has been a Tree City USA since 1987 (29 years). Outcome measures/metrics: In 2015 the total community forestry expenditures came out to$273,266.80(Golden Valley population, 20,371). For more information contact: AI Lundstrom, Park Maintenance Supervisor alundstromCc�goldenvallevmn.�ov (763)-593-8046 Best Practice 16—Urban Forests Action#2—Adopt best practices for urban tree planting/quality; use them in at least one development project • One star:Adopt MN Tree Trust Best Practices, MN Stormwater Manual tree design guidelines or the like • Two star: Use guidelines in at least one development project; document that the development achieves an excellent or better Tree Trust rating,or assess the performance of tree trenches and tree boxes • Three star: Incorporate adopted tree planting best practices in development ordinances; show with data that'plant once' practices are decreasing the number of dying boulevard trees that must be replanted Golden Vallev Entry Implementation Details: The Golden Valley Forestry Department follows industry tree and shrub planting best management practices and uses MnDOT specifications for all street reconstructions and projects such as the Highway 55 Lilac Project. Golden Valley also uses aerial photos and digital inventorying to determine where more cover or more diverse cover is needed in the City. Planting projects are monitored for success and practices are re-evaluated as needed. Outcome measures/metrics: Continued monitoring has generated the percent survival for the following projects: A 2010-2012 planting project funded by a MN DNR Community Forest Bonding Grant(100 trees in 2011, 82 trees in 2012)showed an estimated 90%survival after two years. A 2013 Met Council Environmental Services Reliever Project(47 trees) showed 89%survival. A tree planting project in city parks in response to a 2011 tornado (funded by MCES grant and Trees for Tyrol group) (57 trees) had 86%survival. A 2014 Tree Trust project in Brookview Park (35 trees) had 89%survival. 2014 and 2015 City Fall planting projects(14 and 50 trees respectively)each had 100%survival. For more information contact: AI Lundstrom, Parks Maintenance Supervisor alundstrom@goldenvalleymn.gov (763)-593-8046 Tim Teynor,City Forester tteynor@�oldenvalleymn.gov (763)-593-3976 Best Practice 16—Urban Forests Best Practice 16—Urban Forests Action#3—Budget for and achieve urban canopy/tree planting goals • One Star:A minimum number of trees planted by the city each year,OR at least 2-3 trees planted for each city tree lost • Two Star:An overall city tree canopy of at least 30%and/or a canopy above 60%for residential areas • Three Star:An overall city tree canopy of at least 40%,with goals for canopy over parking lots (such as 50%), canopy over residential (60%-75%), canopy over commercial/industrial Golden Vallev Entrv Implementation details: Golden Valley has an annual budget for tree planting in parks and public spaces ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 in addition to a budget for tree replacement as part of the Pavement Management Program. The City continues to monitor and inspect trees for disease and pests on public land and makes an effort to replace them with native, resilient species.Annually the City plants between 50-75 trees for both parks and as part of the Emerald Ash Borer replacement program. 5-10 trees are planted as part of other construction projects each year as well. According to Earth Define which uses LiDAR data to determine percent tree canopy,Golden Valley has an overall city tree canopy of 40.5%. According to a DNR tree inventory conducted in 2010,Golden Valley has about 21.8 trees per acre in areas maintained by the City. Outcome measures/metrics: In 2015, 128 trees were planted in Golden Valley(74 public, 50 residential). 210 trees were removed from public property and 145 diseased trees were condemned on private property. $18,460 was spent on tree planting and initial care,$41,412 was spent on tree maintenance,and 16,500 was spent on removals.The total community forestry expenditures were$273,266.80(Golden Valley population: 20,371). In 2016, 60(2"-2.5" balled and burlapped)shade and evergreen trees were planted throughout the parks and other public properties. For more information contact: AI Lundstrom, Park Maintenance Supervisor alundstrom@goldenvalleymn.gov_ (763)-593-8046 Tim Teynor,City Forester ttevnor@�oldenvalle_ymri.gov (763)-593-3976 Best Practice 16—Urban Forests Best Practice 16—Urban Forests Action#6—Build Community capacity to protect existing trees/plant resilient species by certifying at least one or more local staff/volunteers. • One Star: For smaller cities: at least one volunteer is a Minnesota Certified Tree Inspector or a Minnesota Forest Pest First Detector • Two Star:At least one city staff member is a Certified Forester, a landscape horticulture professional,or holds Tree Inspector and First Detector certification; city staff provide free assistance to residents/businesses. • Three Star:City has written and begun implementing a community emerald ash borer preparedness plan/climate change adaptation plan for urban forests;city tree canopy follows "10-20-30" rule-of-thumb Golden Vallev Entry Implementation details: Golden Valley has two full time staff with Forestry and Horticulture degrees. One staff member is additionally a Certified Arborist and has a Tree Risk Assessment Qualification from the International Society of Arborists. Per Section 10.50, subdivision 2 of the City Code a tree inspector,certified by the Minnesota Commissioner of Agriculture, administers the Shade Tree Pest Control Program for Dutch Elm disease,oak wilt, and other pests for the City.The City is responsible for removing diseased trees from public property within 20 days of disease confirmation. Property owners are responsible for removing condemned trees from private property. A list of recommended trees is provided for residents on the Golden Valley website. Recommendations for native and/or resilient species are made to residents who request tree replacement advice. Residents are also directed towards the MnDOT Plant Selector online tool to pick plants based on site characteristics and to the Plymouth Tree and Shrub sale where native,diverse species can be purchased online and picked up every spring. The City began developing an Emerald Ash Borer Management Plan 2010 and updated it in 2012.The intent was to provide city staff and community with a dynamic pest management guide that could easily be updated as new pest management technology evolves.The plan calls for staff to work with residents who have boulevard ash trees and remove trees in poor condition by request. Forestry generally uses 10-20-30 rule of thumb for replacing varieties of shade trees. Outcome measures/metrics: In 2011 city staff removed 200 low quality ash trees. In 2014, 30 ash trees were removed from parks and boulevards and 67 shade trees were planted in city parks and right-of-way. Each year low quality ash trees are removed as needed and replacements are made based on available funding. For more information contact: AI Lundstrom, Park Maintenance Supervisor alundstrom@�oldenvalleymn.gov (763)-593-8046 � Best Practice 16—Urban Forests � � Tim Teynor,City.Forester tte nor oldenvalle n. ov (763)-593-3976 �+, Descriptive Linksf� htt : dota Z�otstate.mn.us lant ; Best Practice 16—Urban Forests Tim Teynor, City Forester tteynor@�oldenvalleymn.gov (763)-593-3976 Descriptive Links: http://dotapp7.dot.state.mn.us/plant/ BP18—Parks and Trails Action#3—Achieve minimum levels of city green space. • One star:There exist at least 7 acres of municipal park land per 1000 residents • Two star:At least 20%of total city land area is in protected green infrastructure(parks and protected natural resource areas,trails, publicly accessible school green space) • Three star:90%or more of residents are within one-half mile of a park or other protected green/blue space Golden Valley Entry Implementation Details: A little over 15%of Golden Valley(1,140.4 acres) is dedicated to parks and open space, approximately 54.7 acres per 1000 residents(population 20,866). For more information contact: Eric Eckman Public Works Specialist eeckman@�oldenvallevmri.�ov (763) 593-8084 BP18—Parks and Trails Action#5—Create park/city land management standards/practices that maximize at least one of the following: a. Low maintenance turf management; native landscaping; organic or integrated pest management; pollinator/monarch-safe policies b. Recycling/compostables collection c. Sources of nonpotable water, or surface/rain water,for irrigation • One star: Introduce low/no mow areas into parkland;collect recyclables • Two star: Introduce low/no mow areas into parkland AND utilize organic or integrated pest management; certify through the MPCA at least one city staff person at Level 1 in turf grass BMPs; collect compostables; adopt a bee-safe/pollinator policy • Three star: Provide sources of non-potable water, or surface/rain water,for parkland irrigation; require all city-licensed turf grass services to have staff certified at Level 1 in MPCA turf grass BMPs; introduce sheep/goats to keep grass mowed/invasives at bay; raise honey on city land/buildings; other innovative methods Golden Vallev Entrv Implementation Details: For almost 20 years,Golden Valley has contracted with a professional consultant to assist in managing 25 native buffer areas using integrated pest management.The consultant performs monthly site visits and assesses whether an area needs to burned, mowed or treated. Herbicide is only applied as needed (through spot treatment). Phosphorus-free fertilizer and herbicide are used on athletic fields, Brookview Park, and City Hall campus on an as-needed basis only.All staff that handle fertilizer& pesticide products are certified by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture on an annual basis and all products are applied according to their label recommendations. Herbicide treatment is used on athletic fields if weeds compose over 70% of an area. Milkweed is not removed from any public lands and is included in public planters, medians and along roadways. One staff member is level 1 certified in turf grass BMPs through the MPCA. Golden Valley has four low-maintenance mowing areas on City parkland including Schied Park hill, Glenview Terrace Park hill,and Brookview Park Tennis hill.These areas are typically non-programmed spaces with steeper slopes.These areas allow the City to reduce inputs, save on labor, equipment and material cost,and diversify the ecology. Golden Valley has significantly increased park and public event recycling to maximize recycling at higher use facilities(Brookview Park Shelters,the Brookview Park Tennis program, Isaacson Little League Field and the Schaper Softball Complex). Outcome measures/metrics: In 2015, phased mowing reductions were introduced to naturalize certain areas of parks that are not programmed for recreation including Schied Park hill, Glenview Terrace Park hill and Brookview Park Tennis hill. There are currently about 53.5 total acres of native buffer established in Golden Valley(21.7 acres of which is managed by the City). In 2015,about 6 total acres of pollinator habitat were planted in public BP18—Parks and Trails areas in addition to the 1.6 acres of buffer planted around ponds and along streams. 2.5 acres have been added in 2016. More pollinator habitat and stormwater management vegetation is planned for projects in the community in 2017 and beyond. For more information contact: Eric Eckman, Public Works Specialist eeckman@�oldenvalleymn.�ov (763)-593-8084 AI Lundstrom, Park Maintenance Supervisor alundstrom@goldenvallevmn.�ov (763)-593-8046 Destriptive links: Environmental State of the City 2015: http://www.�oldenvallevmn.�ov/boards/environmental/environmental-state-of-the-citv-report- 2015.pdf BP18—Parks and Trails Action#8—Develop a program to involve community members in hands-on land restoration and stewardship projects. • One star:Create an annual event or ongoing'adopt a park' effort for volunteer trash cleanup of open space, buckthorn removal,etc.for parks or selected public open space areas. Event can be in cooperation with other organizations • Two star: In addition to cleanup and removal of exotics (1 Star),engage community members in annual restoration of natural areas(replanting shoreland buffers, restoring prairie, etc.) • Three star:Create and fund an annual city-wide event for cleanup and restoration, engaging residents in most neighborhoods and creating a public promotion around the event Golden Vallev Entrv Implementation Details: Golden Valley runs Adopt-a-park,Adopt-an-open space,Adopt-a-pond,and Adopt-a-storm drain programs. Participants remove litter and buckthorn from their designated public natural areas and Adopt-a-pond volunteers do some work, such as laying down erosion blankets,to correct soil erosion as well.Adopt-a-storm drain participants keep their storm drain free of litter and can also stencil a "dump no waste" message near storm drains that lead to a neighborhood pond, lake,or Bassett Creek. Profiles of the adoption program and other volunteering events are reported on in the City newsletter and on the City's web page. Outcome measures/metrics: In 2016, 31 (out of 36 available) parks and nature areas had been adopted by individuals or organizations in Golden Valley through the Adopt-a-park program. 1 resident and 2 organizations participated in the Adopt-a-pond program and maintained a total of 8 ponds. 1 open space was adopted in 2016. Between May of 2014 and August of 2015, 14 areas had been stenciled for storm drains. 1,185 storm drains were stenciled in 2014, 68 storm drains were stenciled in 2015. links: Storm Drain Adoption Programs http://www.goldenvalleymn.�ov/surfacewater/storm-drain-adoption.php Storm Drain Stenciling Web Map https://www.arc�is.corn;home/webmap/viewer.html?webmap=2ad42fbbddd94d7482fe31fe3f51790f For more information contact: Eric Eckman Public Works Specialist (763)-593-8084 eeckman@goldenvalleymn.gov BP26—Renewable Energy Action#1:Adopt solar energy standards or a wind energy ordinance that allows or encourages appropriate renewable energy installations. • One star: Ensure that solar and wind energy installations are allowed land uses for appropriate zoning districts within the zoning code. Report any resulting installed capacity in kW • Two star:Adopt the Minnesota Solar Challenge land use best practices or a wind ordinance with provisions that promote rather than restrict renewable energy installations. Include incentive provisions such as fee guidelines,fast-tracking permits(as noted in action 26.7). Note land use or street standards that maximize solar orientation of buildings. Report any resulting installed capacity in kW • Three star:Adopt solar energy standards and a wind energy ordinance AND require renewable energy installations or RE-ready buildings when the city is a financial participant in a project. Report any resulting installed capacity in kW Golden Vallev Entry Implementation Details The City has a Solar Energy Systems Ordinance (11.75 in City Code)that allows solar energy systems in all zoning districts provided it meets the requirements outlined in subdivision 3 of the code.The Wind Energy Conservation Systems Ordinance (11.74 in City Code) allows both mounted and freestanding wind energy conversion systems in all zoning districts except the Single Family Zoning District, Moderate, Medium,and High Density Residential Zoning Districts as well as Shoreland Overlay Districts provided they meet the requirements outlined in subdivisions 3-5 of the code.The purpose of these ordinances is to clearly define the standards for installing solar or wind energy systems,to ensure they are used in a safe and effective manner and make approval of such equipment accessible to residents. Outcome measures/metrics A total of 9 residents, 5 businesses, and 2 public buildings were issued building permits for solar panels since the City began keeping electronic permit records in 2001.The reported aggregate value of these installations is$363,793. For more information contact: Jason Zimmerman, Planning Manager jzimmerman@�oldenvalleymn.gov (763) 593-8099 Descriptive Links http://weblink.ci.�olden-valley.mn.us/Public/DocView.aspx?id=355825&searchid=bfeea8cb-21bb-42a8- 90ee-607239b04a1c&dbid=2 http://weblink.ci.�olden-vallev.mn.us/Public/DocView.aspx?id=502403&searchid=bf94fa26-8261-4ea4- 91dd-39066f3b636c&dbid=2 BP26—Renewable Energy Action#5—Install a public sector/municipally owned renewable energy technology, such as solar electric(PV), biomass, solar hot water/air, micro-hydro or wind • One star: Describe any public sector project and report installed capacity in kW • Two star: Install at least two different RE technologies and report installed capacity in kW; show that a RE installation has shaved off peak energy demand and allowed the monthly utility demand charge to be decreased • Three star: Install RE capacity in excess of 100 kW; report combined heat and power generation Golden Valley Entrv Implementation Details: In 2015 Golden Valley added two photo voltaic arrays on public buildings that were funded through partnerships with the Made in Minnesota Solar program and power purchasing agreements with New Energy Equity(NEE).The Public Safety Building has a 40 kW capacity grid and the Park Maintenance Building has a 40 kW capacity grid both owned and operated by Sundial Solar.The City buys power from Sundial at a rate that is lower than what is offered by Xcel Energy($0.085/kWh as opposed to $0.11/kWh). In the event that there is excess energy, it is pumped into the Xcel power grid and the City receives a credit on its monthly Xcel statement. In 2016 the City committed to installing two additional solar projects: a 40 kW capacity grid on the Utility Maintenance Building and a 40 kW capacity grid on the Streets Maintenance Building. Both arrays will be maintained and operated by Sundial Solar.The systems are expected to fulfil 75%of the Utility Maintenance Building's power and 100%of the Streets Maintenance Building's power. Outcome measures/metrics: It is estimated that the array on the Public Safety Building has generated 47,335.36 kWh so far,fulfilling 15%of the building's power demand (360,000 kWh annually)and saving the City$1,183.38 to-date. It is estimated that the array on the Park Maintenance Building has generated 41,194.17 kWh so far, fulfilling 100%of the building's power demand (39,000 kWh annually) and saving the City$1,1029.85 to- date. In a little less than a year,the arrays installed in 2015 have offset an estimated 127,624 Ibs. (approx. 64 tons)of carbon dioxide that would have otherwise been released into the atmosphere. For more information contact: Tom Hoffman,Water Resources Technician thoffman@�oldenvalleymn.gov (763) 593-8044 Partners: Xcel energy Made in Minnesota Solar Sundial Solar PROGRAM/PROJECT UPDATES—December 2016 ENERGY Buildings and Lighting Minnesota GreenCorps member, Hannah Garry, has been meeting with staff and assessing public buildings for energy efficiency features and opportunities for improvement. Staff is working on making operational changes based on information from the B3 Energy Efficient Operations Manual web tool and developing an employee energy use survey for City staff as a part of this effort. Solar The City is participating in the Department of Energy's SolSmart national certification program and has received a free technical advisor to help meet the requirements for designation.The advisor will be reviewing City codes that reference renewable energy and providing comments and recommendations. Staff are working on developing a checklist of required items that are already completed or could be completed over the course of the program which runs through 2018. NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT PLAN (NRMP) Invasive Species Management Staff has been working with Hennepin County Sentencing to Service Crews to remove buckthorn and other invasive species and undesirable volunteer trees that negatively impact the City's natural and structural stormwater features.Work is being completed in City Nature Areas,open spaces and ponding areas.This work will continue through March 2017. DEVELOPMENTS See attached Planning Report t'tf tt��� ����'�`��''� � The Plannin Re ort 9 p The Planning Report is published twice a month to keep City Council Members and Commissioners apprised of current applications, to summarize action taken, and to report on items related to the physical development of Golden Valley. DEC 8, 2016 �F„�i�`�4��i 4�P)�A ..�,.��§Z$Y g���`'�i E p�'�k Outdoor Storage—Discussion regarding possible Zoning Text Amendments to the current outdoor storage requirements. The Commission reviewed concepts related to outdoor storage on non-residential properties, for auto dealership inventory, and on residential properties at three meetings in October and November. A summary of the discussions will be brought to the Council/Manager meeting in February for feedback before specific changes to code language are drafted. These are expected to be presented to the Commission and Council in early 2017. 5635, 5701, 5743, and 5747 Glenwood Avenue (Glenwood Senior Living)—Preliminary Planned Unit Development, Rezoning, and Comprehensive Plan Amendment to allow for the construction of a 146 unit senior living building at the corner of Glenwood Avenue and Xenia Avenue South. The existing single family home and duplex would be demolished and a new property boundary with the apartments to the west would be established. The five story building would provide Independent, Assisted Living, and Memory Care housing for seniors. As part of the proposal, two properties would be rezoned from R-1 to R-4 as well as be reguided from Medium High Density Residential to High Density Residential. Public amenities associated with the PUD are proposed to be a Community Garden, Enhanced Stormwater Management, Enhanced Exterior Lighting, and Enhanced Landscaping. A hearin�has been delayed while the site plan and access points are bein� revised. ,. � s , , =i 700 Colorado Avenue South (Morrie's)—Conditional Use Permit to allow for the establishment of an auto rental business (Morrie's Heritage Car Connection, to relocate from their current operation site at 710 Pennsylvania Avenue South) and accessory auto detailing and installation within an existing building. In addition, the proposal calls for the site to be used for the storage of cars related to the Heritage Car Connection and other dealership inventory and to provide space for training for employees. The Commission recommended approval (7-0) on November 14. The City Council voted to approve (5-0) on December 6. e','�,? x} �`x� �3�sE&�' �w,.Yj�'�.�.q ;j`M 1136 Welcome Circle—Variance from the front yard setback requirement in order to construct a deck. The BZA voted to deny (0-3) on November 28. 6300 Olson Memorial Highway—Variance from the front yard landscaping requirement in order to account for the construction of the Luce Line Trail along Douglas Drive. The BZA voted to approve (3-0) on November 28. 1350 Boone Avenue North—Variance from the articulation requirement as part of the addition of a new second story. This was discussed at the October 25 meeting and was tabled to allow the applicant to provide additional information. � q ::9 �p F B b: ,#.L �{`�€: 2040 Comprehensive Plan—Staff will lay out the proposed schedule for preparing and approving the Comprehensive Plan update at the Council/Manager meeting on December 13. The main points of each chapter will be presented to the Planning Commission and City Council early in the process and then each chapter will be brought back for an informal review by the Joint Commissions and the City Council prior to the official public hearings. This document is expected to be completed by the end of 2017 and will be shared with neighboring communities before being submitted to the Metropolitan Council in early 2018. METRO Blue Line Extension—The Met Council has proposed modifying the name of the Plymouth Avenue Station to be the Plymouth Avenue/Theodore Wirth Park Station. The City Council supported the new name after discussion at its December 6 meeting. In addition, the Council expressed interest in working with the Golden Valley Community Foundation to provide public art at the Golden Valley Road Station. Additional information about current development projects may be found on the C;ty website.