05-08-17 PC Agenda AGENDA
Planning Commission
Comp Plan Conversation
Golden Valley City Hall, 7800 Golden Valley Road
Council Chambers
Monday, May 8, 2017
6 pm
1. 6-6:30 pm: Open House (Sustainability and Resilience)
2. 6:30-7:30 pm: Presentation and Discussion (Sustainability and Resilience)
� Tl�is clac��mei7t is availal�Ee in alternate formats upan a 72-hc�ur rcqu�s�k. Pleasr:e�ll
'` 763-593-8006(TTY: 763-593-396�}to ��i�ke� ret�uest. Exai��ples of alter�}ate forrri�ts � �
�,' ri�7�y in�.lude large prirtt,�lectronic, Br�ille,�ud'€��asset�e,etc. ��
cityof � �
o�den � EMGIRANDl1M
�
vG�, e� Physical Developrnent Department
763 593 8095/763-593-8109(fax)
Date: May 8, 2017
To: Golden Valley Planning Commission
From: Jason Zimmerman, Planning Manager
Emily Goellner, Associate Planner/Grant Writer
Eric Eckman, Public Works Specialist
Subject: 2040 Comprehensive Plan —Sustainability and Resilience Conversation
Summary
Sustainability and Resilience is the third of seven elements to be discussed as part of the 2017 update to
the City's Comprehensive Plan. Staff will host an open house immediately prior to the Planning
Commission meeting as a way to share information and gather feedback. Members of the public and
Commissioners from the Environmental and Open Space and Recreation Commissions are invited to stay
and participate in the discussion that follows.
Definitions
Sustainability aims to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future
generations to meet their own needs. Sustainability focuses on three key factors-environmental,
economic, and social. Incorporating sustainability into planning will ensure that future residents of
Golden Valley will have the resources they need to survive and prosper.
Resilience is the capacity to respond, adapt, and thrive under changing conditions such as weather and
climate related events. Consideration of vulnerabilities, and strategies to address those vulnerabilities,
will strengthen Golden Valley's ability to prepare and respond to the various impacts.This includes
planning for climate variations and environmental threats, improved health and well-being of residents,
and economic strength and diversity.
Outcomes from this Session
1. Preliminary agreement on the 2040 Goals and Objectives
2. Consensus on general themes and priorities—are any important issues missing?
3. Provide feedback on preliminary policies—especially those impacting development
Attachments
• Vulnerability Assessment, Great Plains Institute (13 pages)
• Summary of Community Feedback (1 page)
• Summary of Focus Group Results (2 pages)
• Proposed Sustainability and Resilience Goals and Objectives (6 pages)
' � GREAT PLAINS ': BetterEnergy.
� INSTITUTE ; Better wor�d.
VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT
The 2013 Report of the Interagency Climate Adaptation Team suggests Minnesota can
expect prolonged heatwaves and cold spells and warmer winters; diminished air quality;
more extreme weather(droughts, heavy precipitation); and increased ecological
changes (invasive species, vector-borne disease). Within the context of the anticipated
climate hazards, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) completed a statewide
vulnerability assessment, where it determined the risk of climate events, by county.
The vulnerability assessment completed by MDH provides a framework to understand
the climate hazard that will likely impact Golden Valley. It is important to note that these
hazards are not unique to Golden Valley, but will be widespread throughout Minnesota
and the Midwest. The purpose of using this assessment is to understand what the City
can expect in order to know how well prepared it is to respond to these changes.
The climate risks that have been identified to be experienced in Hennepin County
include:
HIGt� Extreme Rain Events, Diminished Air Quality
Extreme Heat, Invasive Species
LOW: Drought, Vector-borne Disease
The Golden Valley vulnerability assessment identified strengths, weaknesses and
vulnerabilities in the following categories:
• Natural Infrastructure: trees and native plants; water quality and supply
• Built Infrastructure: streets, sanity sewer lines, water mains, stormwater
structures, and impervious surface
• Vulnerable Populations: elderly, youth, low-income, persons with limited
mobility, and residents with respiratory illnesses
• Economic Vulnerabilities: Community-wide, and residential level
Opportunities exist to reduce the City's contribution to climate and weather related
variations. This assessment includes a summary of energy consumption within the City
and identifies renewable energy and energy efficiency resources.
Golden Valley Resilience and Sustainability Plan 2017 - Draft
` � GREAT PLAINS ' BetterEnergy.
� INSTITUTE ,! aetter wor�d.
......_..._....... ............. ..............................................................................................................................................................
Natural Infrastructure
Natural Infrastructure includes ecological features that that enhance and complement
the functions of built infrastructure. Trees, native landscaping, and rain gardens are
included in this assessment.
Vulnerability Summary—Trees and Native Plants
Trees offer many important benefits to communities: they improve air quality, remove
carbon from the atmosphere, provide shade, support stormwater management, enhance
aesthetics, are home to wildlife, and may increase property values.
Native plants can also improve surface water quality, provide food and critical habitat to
pollinators, improve aesthetics, and reduce maintenance costs.
Climate Hazards:
Invasive Species: High
Extreme Wind Events &Tornadoes: �<��>
Drought: Low
Heavy Rainfall:
Strengths: The City has a healthy tree canopy coverage with a generally diverse mix of
tree species; the City follows the 10-20-30 rule (percent of species, genus, family
planted)for replacement to maintain biodiversity of the urban forest. The City continues
to replace turf with native plantings where appropriate.
Tree Canopy Coverage
Zoo.00�i
so.00�io
60.00%
40.00%
�°Healthy Canopy Coverage(30%)
20.00%
0.00%
Golden Valley
Figure 1 Source:City of Golden Valley
Weaknesses: The City's land cover map indicates a low tree canopy for the commercial
areas. The City's tree planting to removal ratio is .47, which is well under the
recommend 2:1 to maintain a healthy canopy. The City has a relatively high count of Ash
trees that are susceptible to Emerald Ash Borer(EAB). Currently, 21.4% of public trees
are Ash trees, slightly exceeding the heathy limit for a single genus. However, nearly all
of the Ash trees are Green Ash (21.0% of all trees), exceeding the 10% rule for tree
species.
Golden Valley Resilience and Sustainability Plan 2017 - Draft
' � GREAT PLAINS BetterEnergy.
� INSTITUTE Betterworld.
Highest Single Species
ioo.00ro
so.00io
60.00%
40.00%
20.00%
Healthy Maximum Species(10�0)
0.00%
Green Ash
Figure 2 Source:City of Golden Valley
Buckthorn is another invasive species that is a nuisance in the City. Buckthorn is listed
as a restricted noxious weed in Minnesota as it out-competes native plants, degrades
wildlife habitat, contributes to erosion, and can host other pests. Managing Buckthorn is
a challenge for many Minnesota communities. There are 543 acres of buckthorn in
Golden Valley, by far the most common invasive species in the community. The City has
a volunteer program for assisting in the management of buckthorn.
According to the City's GreenStep Cities report for Best Practice 18.5, the area of native
planting remains a relatively low amount compared to manicured turf, however as
mentioned, the city continues to replace turF with native planting, where appropriate.
Acres of Native Planting and
Acres Shrubs/Grass (Public)
zi.�
295
■Acres Shrubs/Grass(Public) Acres of Native Planting
Figure 3 Source:City of Golden Valley
Vulnerability: The greatest concern for tree health in Golden Valley is the spread of
Emerald Ash Borer and recovering from strong wind events that have taken down a
number of the City's trees in recent years, including a tornado in 2011.
The City developed an Emerald Ash Borer Management Plan, which is updated regularly
to adjust for new management technologies and strategies. Trees are removed as
needed and replaced as funding is made available. Annually, the City plants between
50-75 trees for parks as part of the EAB replacement program.
Golden Valley Resilience and Sustainability Plan 2017 - Draft
' � GREAT PLAINS setter Energy.
� INSTITUTE aetter wor�d.
__ .. __ _
Vulnerability Summary—Water Quality and Supply
Increased precipitation and freeze/thaw cycles may make it more difficult to maintain
stormwater practices that help reduce pollution and maintain the health of surface water.
Climate Hazards:
Freeze/Thaw:
Drought: L aw
Heavy Rainfall:
Strengths: The City implements best management practices to reduce stormwater
impacts on surface water. Among these practices, the City cleans ponds, stormwater
pipes, catch basins and outlets; installs and cleans sump catch basins and manholes.
The City sweeps streets in spring, summer, and fall, and continues to use innovative
approaches to reduce and better target the application of chloride in winter while still
taking public safety into account.
The City is a member of the Joint Water Commission, which purchases its drinking water
from the City of Minneapolis, which draws from the Mississippi, a historically stable
source of water.
The City receives an allocation of watershed funds to give to homeowners who have
property along Bassett Creek or one of its tributaries to cover 50% of the cost of
streambank stabilization. Additionally, "enhanced stormwater managemenY' is one of the
20 public amenities listed in the City's PUD ordinance, encouraging development to
exceed capacity for stormwater infiltration beyond the minimum requirements.
Weaknesses: Most stormwater in Golden Valley eventually flows into Basset Creek,
which is an impaired water, and does not meet water quality standards for chloride, fish
and insect bioassessments, and fecal coliform (bacteria). More freeze/thaw cycles may
lead to an increase in the amount of salt/deicer that is applied to the roads, which may
deteriorate stormwater facilities and the quality of the water.
'ak _ ' ' �,'�h e;. ' S:.�
'� �,y�;- ._.'. .4+. �e �'a�m." ..,s. � • r��� .: e.
. . i W"���T.' .. � ,
.�� ��::1�'
_ �, .
_ x,'
'�� . . �..: ' ^ ., � ' , -� -
r " b. < ` '.� ' -� !
�,_,s . . , :.F- ,� y ..
.'.yk `.rti: . .�
, '
"'�y y�a'T� +.0 � �"��.
t
�� �
f?i' � �� ��„�� '�`�,�,^'c� � •s' V� ���Y�.�. ,,� � �.� � .K,� �c7
�-" sas � ��,��'t 3
� � "���.-�. '`-r %S.,".`�}tiy �,r!'� �- §.' �;�� I �:�, �
i�
, �
_ �� � Z' ,� . ,�,�,9�`ti �.,��: � y'
"�>4'�. � �, � ,�� -�:'t� r^���,*i - !' ��
� � �
M5 - `� � ,�� :_ �-� _ II 'i � .
y�.v�`1-� 6
�Y :.h� , s2 _ 1
�Y ' � ���� 1 ��.
�� •�;.� a, '��-
15j 4_ 'k" �
�. � ���
�.k�. ,t,� ��
., �i " i
i :..�.` _ - ., .`�"1�
. _.� _ ' _ , , " i°-�
_ / X/ � �54 d41�. .� �..-, _
Photo Credit: Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission
Vulnerability: The primary concern in Golden Valley is the health of surface water such
as Basset Creek, which may degrade as heavy precipitation events and freeze/thaw
cycles increase.
Golden Valley Resilience and Sustainability Plan 2017 - Draft
' � GREAT PLAINS ' BetterEnergy.
� INSTITUTE ' Better wor�d.
Built Infrastructure
Increased precipitation and freeze/thaw cycles have the potential to stress and shock
built infrastructure systems like pipes (stormwater, sanitary sewers, water), roads, and
bridges. This may result in increased maintenance costs, structural damage to public
infrastructure, damage to private properties, disruption of services, and inconveniences
to residents.
The City has developed a map of its flood risk and has a good understanding of which
locations are most at risk for flooding. As heavy precipitation events increase, the
possibility of flash-flooding also increases. The Metropolitan Council is working to
develop mapping technology that will help cities anticipate where flash flooding may
occur in a heavy rain event. Flash flood events can damage property, and can be unsafe
for pedestrians at depths as low as 6 inches, and for vehicles at depths of 1 to 2 feet.
Climate Hazards:
Freeze/Thaw: Hiyh
Heavy Rainfall: High
Strengths: The City has a Capital Improvement Program that recognizes aging
infrastructure and addresses flooding impacts. The City anticipates that 100% of roads
will be reconstructed to City standards by 2022 and the City will continue to implement a
pavement preservation and maintenance program after 2022. Inflow and infiltration is a
problem that occurs across the Metro area. Inflow and infiltration occurs when clear
water(rain or ground water) enters into the sanitary sewer system, potentially causing
costly back-ups, or the unnecessary treatment of clean water. The City has implemented
a program to reduce the amount of clear water that enters the sanitary sewer system.
The City continues to install stormwater infrastructure to reduce the potential for flood
damage within the watershed. For example, the current Capital Improvement Plan
budgets $1.2 million for the creation of flood storage. For its stormwater design, the City
uses Atlas 14, which provides precipitation estimates for Midwestern states. Much of the
stormwater system was built decades ago using the previous standards in place at that
time.
Weaknesses: The City has a significant amount of aging infrastructure, which has seen
an increase in the amount and costs of maintenance (pipe breaks, deterioration, sink
holes)over the past 20 years. Much of the system needs to be replaced or rehabilitated.
Golden Valley Resilience and Sustainability Plan 2017 - Draft
' � GREAT PLAINS ' BetterEnergy.
� INSTITUTE Betterwor�d.
..., _ . _.. . .............. .... _.... . __ _ . ..
Vulnerability: The major vulnerability is the age and condition of the underground
infrastructure within the City, as well as the water pipes coming into the city as part of
the Joint Water Commission system.
Age of Sanitary Sewer Lines Age of Watermains
��
■Percent>50 Years ■Percent>SO Years
■Percent<50 Years ■Percent<50 Years
:��
Figures 4 and 5 Source:City of Golden Valley
Golden Valley Resilience and Sustainability Plan 2017 - Draft
' � GREAT PLAINS Better Energy.
� INSTITUTE i aetter wor�d.
_.................. .................. p. _... _ .......................................................,.......,.,.........,,.........................,.....,.......,.,..................
Vulnerable Po ulations - Extreme Weather and Flooding
Hennepin County is likely to see more heavy precipitation events that may lead to
localized flooding, basement, flooding, and regional flooding (Bassett Creek). Extreme
rain and weather events may have an impact on individuals who need to evacuate or
seek safety, and may cause structural damage to personal property.
Climate Hazards:
Extreme Wind Events &Tornadoes:
Heavy Rainfall:
Strengths: Golden Valley residents have a higher median income ($81,534) relative to
the Hennepin County($65,834), an indication that many residents would be in a better
position to respond to property damage than residents with lower-incomes. The City
provides resources on its website to help residents minimize flooding impacts. The City
participates in FEMA's community rating system which requires higher floodplain
management standards in exchange for lower flood insurance premiums for eligible
properties.
Weaknesses: Homes that are located in floodplains or are susceptible to basement
flooding may pose a greater risk to residents and their property.
Vulnerability: Residents who tend to be the most vulnerable during extreme weather
events are those with limited mobility (including senior residents and those with
ambulatory difficulty), residents who do not speak English well and may not receive
adequate preparation and response instructions, and low-income individuals who are
likely to be disproportionately impacted by property damage and ability to recover; 8.2%
of Golden Valley residents live below poverty. 2.8% of Golden Valley residents speak
English less than "very well".
Residents Over 65 Individuals Below Poverty
25.00% 15.00%
20.00%
15.00% 10.00%
10.00% �� � � �
,
' S.00% '
�, �,,-�L � � � _.,_�� �
5.00% , �: �. ...
0.00% 0.00%
Minnesota Hennepin Golden Valley Minnesota Hennepin Golden Valley
County County
Figures 6 and 7 Source:American Community Survey 2011 fo 2015
Golden Valley has an older population relative to the State and Hennepin County, with
more than 20% older than 65 years. Senior residents who live alone may be especially
vulnerable during extreme weather events; currently, 33% of residents over 65 live
alone. By 2040, the City will likely see an increase in the number of residents over 65 as
those who are currently between 45 and 64 (32%) will age.
Golden Valley Resilience and Sustainability Plan 2017 - Draft
' t GREAT PLAINS BetterEnergy.
� INSTITUTE Better world.
......................._... ....._. _.....,......,.,. ,............,...,.....,..................................,....,.....,,...............,....................,.....,.........,..,.
Vulnerable Populations — Extreme Heat and Air Quality
Minnesota and especially Hennepin County will likely see an increase in the number of
days that require a heat advisory. Increased extreme weather may cause power
disruptions during times when air conditioning is needed. As wildfires and pollen blooms
increase, more air quality alerts will be issued.
Climate Hazards:
Extreme Heat: Higl�
Diminished Air Quality:
Strengths: The Community Center and City Hall are critical public facilities with air
conditioning. The City has a healthy tree canopy in residential areas to help reduce the
impact of urban heat island effect. The City is part of the North Suburban Emergency
Management Group which identifies potential refuge and cooling centers depending on
the nature of the emergency.
Weaknesses: The City faces potentially significant tree loss(see natural infrastructure).
The City's commercial area has a relatively low tree canopy coverage and high
impervious surface, particularly asphalt surface parking areas, contributing to urban heat
island effect.
Vulnerability: Residents who are most vulnerable to heat and air quality hazards are
senior residents, children under 5, low-income residents who live in areas near major
roadways, and those with existing respiratory illnesses like asthma or allergies.
Those who appear to be at greatest risk in Golden Valley are the elderly, low-income,
and residents with respiratory illness, particularly those who live alone during times of
power disruption that coincides with a prolonged heafinrave.
Residents Over 65 Ashthma ER Visits (per 10,000)
25.00% 60.00
20.00% 50.00
15.00% 40.00
10.00% V 30.00
F
5.00% 20.00
0.00% 10.00
Minnesota Hennepin Golden Valley 0.00
County Minnesota Hennepin County Golden Valley
Figure 8 Source:American Community Survey 2011 to Figure 9 Number of asthma-related visits to the ER per
2015 10,000 people. Source:Minnesota Department of Health
Data Portal. (NOTE:Golden Valley is shown using an
average of the County and the State data.
Golden Valley Resilience and Sustainability Plan 2017 - Draft
' � GREAT PLAINS i BetterEnergy.
� INSTITUTE � Better Worid.
__ ._ _......................_ .,..... ....................,............,.,...........................,,,.............................................,.......................................
Vulnerable Populations — Vector-borne Diseases
Vector borne diseases that are found in Minnesota include West Nile, transmitted by
mosquitoes, and Lyme Disease that is transmitted by deer ticks. Lyme Disease, in
particular, has been rapidly expanding throughout the Midwest as deer ticks and their
hosts find it a more favorable climate. Hennepin County is currently at a low to moderate
risk for Lyme disease.
Vector-borne diseases:
Strengths: The City currently has low incidence of residents who have contracted
vector-borne diseases. The City falls within the jurisdiction of the Metro Mosquito Control
District which has a regular program for treating mosquito breeding habitat within Golden
Valley.
Weaknesses: The city has many
heavily wooded and natural areas that Residents Under 5
make a good habitat for ticks and 8 000�0
mosquitoes. Increased precipitation may o
also increase mosquito populations. 6.00ro
4.00%
Vulnerability: Most at risk are children Z.00ro
under 5 who play outside and will need o.00io
to be thoroughly checked by an adult for Minnesota Hennepin Golden Valley
any sign of ticks or Lyme disease. county
Distribution of Lyme disease cases by county of residence
�.,�«; ��
� � ,�
� 1 1��,
���
�v �
� ��� � ���►�„�-
.�
1996-2000 2001-2005 2006-2010
No cases 1-10 cases 11-100 cases � 101-160 cases
Incidence rate(cases/100,000 person-years}
� , � ::,�_� .�,�;,�
Golden Valley Resilience and Sustainability Plan 2017 - Draft
' � GREAT PLAINS , aetter Energy.
� INSTITUTE Better wor�d.
_ _....... . ........._........ . _. . ..,..,................ .... _ _ . . .........._.. _._., :...,.......
Economic — Community-wide
Extreme weather in other parts of the Country and the world may have local impacts on the
economy of Golden Valley. Changing growing seasons, drought, and heavy rains may
impact agriculture, driving up the costs of purchasing food, or making certain foods
unavailable. Extreme weather is already causing home and flood insurance rates to rise
nationwide, making home ownership less affordable for lower middle-class and low-income
families. Global, national, and regional economic health may impact local jobs.
Community-wide vulnerability looks at how the City might fare during an economic disruption.
This analysis uses unemployment numbers from 2015 and from 2009(the peak of the
recession)and looks at the diversity of the current employment sectors, highlighting the
sectors that suffered the highest percentage of job loss during the economic recession from
2007 to 2011.
Unemployment Rate 2009 & 2015
While Golden Valley ranks very high in
io.00�ro
the number of jobs per resident(1.62),
most residents(90%)work outside the
City. s.00°ro
Strengths: Golden Valley is well- � � ,
positioned to withstand economic o.00°ro
dISPU tion. Both Minnesota and the Minnesota Hennepin Golden Vallev
P Figure 11 Source:American Community Survey 2011 to 2015
Twin Cities metro region performed
better than much of the Country during
the economic recession. Golden Valley currently has a healthy unemployment rate and a
diverse workforce.
Weaknesses: The Twin Cities metro region has some of the greatest income disparities
befinreen white residents and residents of color in the country.
Vulnerability: Low-income residents, residents of color, and immigrants are often hit hardest
by economic disruptions. During the Great Recession, the employment sectors that saw the
greatest job loss include financial, construction, manufacturing, retail, and transportation
(denoted by red in the graph below).While the City has a diverse workforce, approximate
40%work in the affected employment sectors.
Golden Valley Employment Sectors (At Risk)
Construction,
�;���" Financial, 3.20%
� ��� 11.10%
Manufacturing,
"�" ° � � 11.30%
Other 1obs, Retail,
60.80% 10.30%
. ,��'� Transportation,
3.30%
Figure 12 Source:U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The Recession of 2007-2009
Golden Valley Resilience and Sustainability Plan 2017 - Draft
' � GREAT PLAINS ' setterEnergy.
� INSTITUTE i BetterWorid.
.................. ......................... .......... ,,..... _ _ ._......... ....... ...... .... .,.... .,........
Economic — Residential Level
Additional economic impacts that could burden residents are high heating and cooling
costs due to prolonged heatwaves and cold spells. Travel may also be impacted by
extreme weather, which could impede emergency routes or limit commutes and transit
options.
Extreme weather events may have a disproportionate impact on people who are
economically vulnerable. Many climate hazards can have a direct or indirect impact on
the financial stability of low-income residents, for example due to the cost of food or
energy. Economic disruptions are also likely to have greater consequences for low-
income residents relative to middle class or wealthy residents.
Strengths: Golden Valley has a relatively low percentage of low-income residents.
Weaknesses: 8.2% of the City's population live below the poverty line, and 20.6% are
eligible to receive heating assistance. By choice or personal reasons, 5.6°/a of Golden
Valley residents do not have access to a vehicle.
Vulnerability: Heatwaves and prolonged cooling spells can have significant financial
impacts on households with a high energy burden. Residents without access to a vehicle
may have difficulty making it to work, or evacuating in times of extreme weather events.
Golden Valley Resilience and Sustainability Plan 2017 - Draft
' � GREAT PLAINS 1 Better Energy.
� INSTITUTE I Better Worid.
_ ....... ... .. .... .. .. . _ _ _
_... ._ _
Energy
A major contributor to climate variation is greenhouse gas emissions from the generation
of electricity. While the electric grid in Minnesota continues to get cleaner, it remains
important for local governments to understand energy consumption in their communities.
Golden Valley residents and businesses get their electricity from Xcel Energy. Residents
make up the largest customer sector with more than 8,000 customers. However, 62% of
the energy in the City is consumed by its Industrial customers.
Number of Customers by Sector Total Electric Use by Sector (kWh)
Industrial, Metered Street
146 Lighting, 901 Residential,
66,791,139
Commercial, `� r
913 �
Metered
Street
Lighting,
26,113
` Industrial, ', Commercial,
Residential, 61,246,460
8,813 210,226,248
Figure 12:Source:Xcel Energy Community Energy Report, 2016
Xcel Energy offers a number of programs to customers to increase efficiency and clean
energy actions. Very few Golden Valley residents and businesses are taking advantage
of these programs. Fewer than 400 residents participate in Windsource0, and only 2
businesses do. More businesses take advantage of energy efficiency rebates than
residential customers.
Overall the current participation in clean energy and energy efficiency programs is
having little impact on the energy consumption within the city.
Xcel Energy offers a production incentive for solar installations, Solar*Rewards, 12
residents and 2 businesses have taken advantage of this program. City records show a
total of 9 single-family residences and 5 businesses were issued permits for solar
installations since the City began keeping electronic permit records in 2001.
In 2015, the City installed solar PV systems on the Public Safety Building (40kW)and
the Park Maintenance Building (40kW). In 2017, two additional Solar PV systems are
being installed on the Streets Maintenance and Utilities Maintenance building.
Golden Valley Resilience and Sustainability Plan 2017 - Draft
' � GREAT PLAINS j Better Energy.
� INSTITUTE � Better Worid.
_ ................................. ..................... . _ . _ ._ . .... . __ ... ....,......_ __
Mitigation Opportunities
The potential solar resource in Golden Valley has been mapped to identify how much
solar energy is possible in the city and where there might be good locations for solar
installations. This tool can be used to help residents and businesses determine whether
their solar resource is adequate to pursue installation.
The following summarizes the rooftop solar opportunity within the city of Golden Valley:
Total rooftop solar resource capacity: 166 MW
Rooftop resource capacity of top 10 buildings: 23 MW
There is a significant solar resource in the City of Golden Valley. For example, the
potential solar resource of the top 10 buildings could offset approximately 9% of the
electricity consumed in the City, nearly achieving the State's goal of 10% solar electricity
by 2030.
The total rooftop solar resource available in Golden Valley could generate 64% of the
electricity consumed in the City.
Beyond Solar Installations:
• Windsource0
• Energy Efficiency Rebates
• Community Solar Subscriptions
There are several opportunities available to help residents and businesses improve
energy efficiency and increase clean energy generation that will help reduce overall
greenhouse gas emissions.
City operations include building energy and vehicle fleet fuel consumption. The City
currently has 6 buildings that have a 63 benchmarking ratio greater than 1, suggesting
opportunities for energy savings.
For the purpose of this assessment, the City provided a snapshot of its fleet vehicles.
Using the data provided, the City's diesel fleet has a fuel economy of 4.75 miles per
gallon; the gasoline vehicles have a fuel economy of 10.13 miles per gallon; the City has
22 e85 vehicles, though there are no fueling stations; the City does not own any electric
vehicles. Further, there are not currently any alternative fueling stations anywhere in the
community, including e85 and electric charging stations.
There are 13 facilities that are considered critical infrastructure. Most of these facilities
have back-up power generation from either diesel or natural gas sources. There may be
opportunity for the City to investigate solar with storage back-up power generation to
increase the resilience of these facilities.
Golden Valley Resilience and Sustainability Plan 2017 - Draft
�� SUMMARY OF COMMUNITY FEEDBACK
Sustainability and Resilience - 204o Comprehensive Plan
(��/2Q40 Comprehensive Plan Conversations - May 8, 20�7
Summary
The City engaged the community on the topic of Sustainability and Resilience in a number of different ways in
2016 and 2017:
• Community survey (via telephone) was conducted with several environmental questions
• Comprehensive Plan kickoff open house was held September�q, 2o�b
• City solicited online comments on the 204o Comprehensive Plan update
• Online survey was conducted in early 20�7 to gauge the public's perception on Resilience and Climate
Impacts
The general themes that are emerging are:
• Protect and increase green spaces and tree canopy
• Enhance water quality
• Mitigate impacts from flooding
• Invest in aging infrastructure
• Expand sidewalk and trail system
• Explore options for solid waste management and yard waste management
• Expand recycling program and include composting/organics
• Increase energy efficiency and renewable energy use
• Attract and support small businesses
• Improve social connectedness and diversity
• Encourage sustainable practices and inform and engage the public
Comprehensive Plan Kick-Off Open House
As community members arrived at the open house, they were given a set of stickers to use at each "station"
or chapter of the Comp Plan. Stickers were used by attendees to represent the goals that they feel are most
important to them and should be included in the long-term vision for Golden Valley.
Top 5 Sustainability and Resilience Goals Identified at Open House Sticker
Count
Encoura e use of renewable ener y, includin wind, solar, etc. 3�
Encoura e waste reduction, recyclin and compostin 24
Encoura e ener efficienc for buildin s and li htin 22
Enhance water ualit 20
Maintain/increase ve etation 20
,,� i
�'�""valley
SUMMARY OF FOCUS GROUP RESULTS
Sustainability and Resilience - 204o Comprehensive Plan
GV2040 March, 20,�
Summary
Staff held two focus groups to gather community feedback on the City's first Sustainability and
Resilience Plan. One, held on March ��20�7, consisted of participants who provide social services to
vulnerable populations in Golden Valley. The other, held on March 27, 20�7, was made up of
participants who serve on the Environmental Commission.
During each focus group, participants first determined three or four central themes or questions to
focus on, then filled out a "success spectrum" for each theme, shown below.
Focus Group �: Supporting Vulnerable Populations
Recommendations from representatives of social service organizations on how the City can enhance
its communication and outreach, preparedness for weather and climate-related events, and
prioritization of resources to better support vulnerable populations.
Theme Moderate Success Epic Success
Communication Most people can be reached in response to events: Everybody can be reached and
and Outreach • Translate into multiple languages understands what to do
• Broad portfolio of communication channels
• Exchange contact names and information with
community organizations, update annually or
more often
Preparedness City is able to: There is a widespread system for
and Response • Coordinate with other organizations (MOUs) people to look out for one
• Provide physical assets needed to respond to another
events (food, water, shelter) • Example: neighborhood
• Address the needs of multiple audiences watch program
(residents, non-resident workers/students, • Least vulnerable
individuals with limited mobility, mental health responsible for most
needs, and/or pets) vulnerable
• Nelp people prepare for weather-related
events, and recover from them when they
occur
• Easily locate highly vulnerable populations
(clinics, senior livin facilities, daycares, etc.)
Prioritizing City clearly states its resources and priorities in the
Resources context of this work
Comprehensive Plan Conversations - Sustainability and Resilience
GV2040 May 8, 2017
Focus Group 2: Environmental Commission
Recommendations from the Environmental Commission on goals and implementation options to build
a more sustainable and resilient Golden Valley.
Theme Moderate Success Epic Success
Clean Energy • City infrastructure off the grid City and its residents are �oo��o
• Adopt emissions reduction goals consistent off the grid
with State's goal, at a minimum
• Local grid is enhanced to be more resilient to City includes sustainability in
disruption its procurement policy
• Explore options for renewable energy for
heating that does not produce more pollution
• Clean energy is number one priority for
equipment replacement in public facilities, non-
clean energy sources are not an option
• City provides educational materials on energy
improvements for residents and businesses
• City explores new technologies as they
become viable
Waste Reduction • Single garbage hauler, bi-weekly (?)garbage Zero waste sent to
pickup landfill/incinerator
• Weekly recycling, including textiles, e-waste,
etc. (expand list of what can be recycled)
• Curbside compost pickup
• Encourage businesses to reduce waste
• Fix-it clinics in Golden Valley or nearby
• Explore ways to reduce costs/provide
improved services through Joint Power
A reements with other local overnments
Stormwater • All infrastructure and projects meet current No floods, no backups, no
Infrastructure design standards frozen water mains
• Infrastructure designed with climate impacts in
mind Property owners
� City has completed comprehensive assessment capture/reuse most rain
to identify strategies for dealing with flooding water that falls on their
(including green roofs, rain gardens, water property; mimic historical
harvesting and reuse) runoff conditions prior to
• Maintenance is planned comprehensively with development
whole system in mind
2
PROPOSED GOALS & OBJECTIVES
Sustainability and Resilience- 204o Comprehensive Plan
�7+�204� Comprehensive Plan Conversations- May 8, 20�7
2040 Sustainability & Resilience Chapter
Goal �: Promote and Develop Clean, Renewable Energy
Remove barriers and increase renewable energy use to help lower costs and mitigate climate-related impacts
Objectives
• Promote ways to increase renewable energy use, purchase, and generation
• Support programs that enable community members to participate in community renewable energy projects
• Encourage new development, redevelopment, and retrofit projects to add renewable energy capacity or
infrastructure
� Continue to incorporate renewable energy or its supporting infrastructure into City projects and operations
• Look for opportunities to partner with other public entities, utility companies, and private sector to provide
clean energy infrastructure and accomplish energy goals
Preliminary Policies
• Communicate opportunities and information about clean, renewable energy to the public
• Create renewable energy standards or ordinances that encourage appropriate renewable energy installations
• Create a transparent and consistent permit process for residents and businesses to install renewable energy
systems
� Work with local utilities or community organizations to distribute information about green power purchasing
programs or incentives for property owners to install renewable energy systems
• Use solar mapping tools to identify potential solar resources and share mapping tools with residents and
businesses
• Evaluate new energy technologies as they become available and incorporate into City projects and operations
as appropriate
• Create a clean energy goal, at a minimum consistent with the State's goals
Goal 2: Encourage Energy Efficiency in Buildings, Lighting and Infrastructure
Energy efficiency improvements will decrease costs and lower energy-related emissions
Objectives
• Communicate to residents and businesses about rebates, audits, and other opportunities to decrease energy
costs and lower energy-related emissions
• Integrate energy efficiency best practices information and assistance into building permit process
• Encourage an integrated approach to designing building and infrastructure systems (heating, cooling,water,
etc.)
• Maximize the energy efficiency of all public buildings, campuses, infrastructure,and operations
• Improve fuel efficiency of City vehicle fleet
• Encourage fuel/charging stations or supporting infrastructure for low emissions vehicles
• Look for opportunities to partner with other public entities, utility companies, and private sector to maximize
energy efficiencies
Comprehensive Plan Conversations - Sustainability and Resilience
May 8, 20�7
GV2040
Preliminary Policies
• Provide incentives to residents and businesses who add energy efficiency improvements
• Integrate energy efficiency standards and sustainable design features into project review and approval
processes
• Require higher efficiency standards and/or renewable energy generation or infrastructure for projects that
receive City financial support
� Create or participate in outreach programs to promote energy conservation
• Connect property owners with assistance providers who offer energy audits and assistance
• Partner with non-profit organizations, local utilities and/or the state energy office to provide energy savings
opportunities to low income residents
� Continue to work with regional partners to connect and expand options for multi-modal transportation (see
Transportation Chapter)
• Explore the purchase of low emissions vehicles
• Install fuel/charging stations or supporting infrastructure for low emissions vehicles at City campuses
• Encourage fuel/charging stations or supporting infrastructure at commercial and office sites, parking ramps,
and public parking areas
• Facilitate changes in city code to allow for reduced light in the night sky which may also benefit the natural
environment
Goal 3: Encourage Waste Reduction, Recycling and Composting
Comprehensive management of waste will lower energy costs and reduce energy-related emissions
Objectives
• Continue to partner with other public entities to reduce costs, provide improved services,and meet state
goals
• Create goals for solid waste reduction, recycling, and organics/composting for City operations as well as
residential and commercial sectors
• Increase accessibility to composting/organics recycling
• Explore opportunities to expand the recycling program or recyclable products (i.e. organics,textiles, electronic
waste, certain plastics, other)
• Research options for managing yard waste,woody brush and soil
• Explore opportunities to improve efficiencies in solid waste removal
• Motivate residents, businesses,and institutions to reduce, reuse and recycle waste
Preliminary Policies
• Provide education and incentives to residents and businesses to reduce waste and recycle
• Explore the potential of implementing organized collection systems, including residential and
business/institutional source separated organics collection
• Review the frequency of pickups
• Facilitate more fix-it clinics in Golden Valley
• Promote City drinking water as alternative to bottled water(strategy)
• Require that City events are zero waste events
2
Comprehensive Plan Conversations - Sustainability and Resilience
May 8, 20�7
GV2040
Goal 4: Protect and Enhance the Natural Environment
Protect the natural environment and enhance it to mitigate weather and climate-related impacts
Objectives
• Preserve open spaces and natural areas and seek to expand these areas as opportunities arise
• Increase the amount of trees and native vegetation cover including pollinator habitat
• Preserve and enhance wetlands,streams and lakes
• Encourage the construction of green infrastructure to enhance water quality and reduce stormwater runoff
rates,volumes, and nutrient loads
• Reduce urban heat island effect
• Protect and maintain air quality
• Look for opportunities to partner with public and private entities to enhance the natural environment and
build resilience
• Continue to engage the public and provide education on environmental topics and opportunities
• Support community efforts to improve the natural environment
Preliminary Policies
� Support the goals and policies of the City's Natural Resources Management Plan and reference this plan when
evaluating protection and enhancement of the natural environment
• Maintain and improve natural infrastructure assets such as streambanks,wetlands, ponds, and rain gardens
• Identify areas with steep slope vulnerabilities and consider policies regarding protection
• Utilize an adaptive management approach to protection, preservation, and enhancement of natural areas
• Incorporate resilience into natural resource management budgets to prepare and respond to unexpected
shocks and stresses
• Establish land management standards and practices that lower inputs and maximize resilience (i.e. utilize low
maintenance turf, replace turf with native and resilient species wherever possible)
• Reduce the amount of chemical herbicides and pesticides applied in the community
• Continue to take a proactive approach in efforts to identify and treat diseased and insect-infested trees in a
timely manner through implementation of the City's shade tree disease program
• Continue to monitor and prepare for invasive species and pathogens that could significantly damage the City's
vegetation and water resources
• Increase tree canopy in areas with low coverage, high heat vulnerability(non•residential areas, high impervious
surface coverage), and areas exposed to more vehicle exhaust
• Reforest or increase tree canopy coverage in areas that have experienced significant tree loss due to storms,
disease, insect-infestation, or other
• Ensure healthy tree canopy coverage represented by a diverse species of trees
• Increase the ratio of tree planting to tree removal
• Increase native species planted in publicly owned parking lots or heavily-paved areas to enhance stormwater
management and provide habitat to pollinators and other wildlife
• Continue to review development proposals for conformance with environmental ordinances regarding tree
preservation, water quality, wetland protection and mitigation, shoreland protection, and consistency with the
Natural Resource Management Plan
3
Comprehensive Plan Conversations - Sustainability and Resilience
May 8, 20�7
GV2040
• Encourage, through education or incentives, development that saves or increases green spaces and protects
areas with high ecological diversity
• Work with private property owners and developers to encourage reforestation and enforce the current tree
preservation ordinance
• Plan and budget for targeted invasive species removal and,where appropriate, native species replacement
• Reserve a portion of the forestry or natural resource budget to be used in the event of an unexpected
disturbance (invasive species, disease, storm damage, climate impacts, etc.)to the urban forest
• Budget for adequate urban canopy coverage and increased tree planting after events that lead to tree loss
• Support the goals and policies of the City's surface water management plan and the Bassett Creek Watershed
Management Commission Watershed Management Plan
• Update shoreland management ordinance consistent with state requirements
• Encourage the preservation or establishment of native and natural vegetation near shorelands
• Encourage businesses and residents to retain stormwater runoff onsite and to reuse it whenever feasible
• Conduct education and outreach on the effects of nutrient loads and contaminants in stormwater on local
water quality
• (ntegrate green infrastructure into City capital improvement projects
• Provide information about water use and conservation
• Reduce impervious surface area where possible and use lighter colored pavements and building materials to
mitigate urban heat island effect
• Expand environmental education programs with schools and in the community and involve community
members in hands-on land restoration and stewardship projects
• Provide information and assistance to residents on natural landscaping techniques, including rain garden
installation and creation of pollinator habitats
• Review ordinances with respect to wood burning
Goal 5: Plan for Resilient and Sustainable Infrastructure
Objectives
• Protect and maintain constructed and natural systems that provide critical services
• Design stormwater infrastructure to consider emerging climate patterns
• Minimize the excavation of public streets and disruption to public services
• Reduce the opportunities for power outages
• Support well-planned improvements to the private utility and communications networks that provide
redundancy, efficiency and security
• Continue to explore and incorporate new and emerging technologies to construct, rehabilitate, maintain and
manage public assets and infrastructure in an efficient, cost effective manner
Preliminary Policies
� Support the goals and policies in the Water Resources and Transportation Chapters of the Comprehensive
Plan
• Continue to assess public buildings and sites for vulnerabilities to extreme weather, and make improvements
to reduce or prevent damage and sustain function
• Encourage private building owners to take actions that will increase resilience
4
Comprehensive Plan Conversations - Sustainability and Resilience
May 8, 20�7
GV2040
• Support improvements to the natural gas network, electric grid,and smart grid technologies
• Support microgrids (combined heat and power, distributed energy of wind and solar,and district energy)that
provide redundancy, efficiency and security
• Support the plan to construct electric vehicle charging stations along U.S. interstate highway system
• Work with public and private partners to plan and schedule infrastructure projects to reduce disruptions and
decrease costs
• Encouragejoint trench construction and construction of duct banks and conduits
• for future expansion of facilities within public right-of-way,where appropriate
� Continue to utilize trenchless technologies to rehabilitate underground infrastructure
• Plan, design and maintain infrastructure to accommodate connected, automated, and connected automated
vehicles
• Identify opportunities to enhance the electric grid to be more resilient to power outages Improve the
redundancy and reliability of back-up energy for critical infrastructure
• Design infrastructure to minimize environmental and public health impacts
• Consider life cycle costs, including operations and maintenance costs,when planning projects and selecting
construction materials
• Integrate multi-benefit green infrastructure into public capital projects
• Continue to reduce the inflow and infiltration of clear water into sanitary sewer system
• Continue to review operations and maintenance procedures and practices in response to climate impacts
Goal 6: Increase Community Resilience and Preparedness
Objectives
• Prepare to maintain public health and safety during extreme weather and climate related events
• Ensure all residents are prepared to respond to emergency situations
• Establish a reliable, modern communication infrastructure that is accessible to all residents
• Promote social connectedness
• Promote economic resilience to acute and chronic stressors
Preliminary Policies
• Coordinate with regional partners to ensure basic needs of all residents are met during an emergency
• Continue to routinely review and participate in updating the County Nazard Mitigation Plan
• Identify staff responsible for City preparedness, emergency response, and recovery efforts for each type of
event
• Designate appropriate facilities that will be made available to the public as community safe shelters and
arrange for adequate provisions and backup power
• Make air conditioned public facilities available during poor air quality days and high heat days
� Continue to participate in FEMAs National Flood Insurance Program Community Rating System to maintain a
higher level of floodplain management in exchange for lower flood insurance premiums for eligible properties
• Develop a volunteer community preparedness program
• Strengthen relationships with community organizations to support the most vulnerable residents
• Provide education to residents on what actions they can take to reduce their risk to extreme weather and
climate related events
5
Comprehensive Plan Conversations - Sustainability and Resilience
May 8, 20�7
GY2040
• Coordinate with emergency dispatch and first responders to address the specific concerns of residents who
may be more vulnerable in each type of event
• Make emergency communications available in multiple languages and platforms
� Prepare to communicate when power and communications networks are down
• Facilitate relationship building between members of the community across age, ethnicity, income,and/or other
demographic differences
• Support and promote opportunities for public engagement in sustainable efforts
• Promote and report on the City's sustainability projects and initiatives
• Explore opportunities to strengthen and diversify the local economy
• Foster small business and green business development
• Develop a post-disaster impact assessment in partnership with the local business community
• Promote low-income weatherization and heating assistance programs through City communication mediums
• Promote local food production, sales,and consumption and remove barriers for urban farming(i.e. vertical
farms,community gardens)
6