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1 - ec-agenda-1-25-2021 REGULAR MEETING AGENDA This meeting will be held via Cisco Webex in accordance with the local emergency declaration made by the City under Minn. Stat. § 12.37. The public may monitor this meeting by calling 1-415-655- 0001 and entering the meeting code 177 281 6007. For technical assistance, please contact support staff at 763-593-8007 or webexsupport@goldenvalleymn.gov. If you incur costs to call into the meeting, you may submit the costs to the City for reimbursement consideration. Additional information about for monitoring electronic meetings is available on the City website. 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of Agenda 4. Approval of Nov 23, 2020 Regular Meeting Minutes (5 min) 5. Old Business A. Recycling & Organics Update (5 min) B. Partners In Energy Workshop 4 (15 min) C. EC/HRC Environmental Justice Collaboration (5 min) D. Ordinance Allowing Goats for Vegetation Management (15 min) (Action Requested) 6. New Business A. 2021 Work Plan Ideas (20 min) B. Program/Project Updates (5 min) i. Hennepin County Climate Action Plan (5 min) C. Council Updates (5 min) D. Other Business (5 min) 7. Adjournment Jan 25, 2021 – 6:30 pm REGULAR MEETING MINUTES This meeting will be held via Cisco Webex in accordance with the local emergency declaration made by the City under Minn. Stat. § 12.37. The public may monitor this meeting by calling 1-415-655- 0001 and entering the meeting code 133 824 3002. For technical assistance, please contact support staff at 763-593-8007 or webexsupport@goldenvalleymn.gov. If you incur costs to call into the meeting, you may submit the costs to the City for reimbursement consideration. Additional information about for monitoring electronic meetings is available on the City website. 1. Call to Order The meeting was called to order by Chair Seys at 6:31. 2. Roll Call Commissioners present: Scott Seys, Debra Yahle, Tonia Galonska, Jim Stremel Dawn Hill, Shannon Hansen, Wendy Weirich, Felix Fettig Commissioners absent: None Council Members present: Larry Fonnest Staff present: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor; Drew Chirpich, Environmental Specialist; Story Schwantes, Green Corp Member; Carrie Nelson, Administrative Assistant; Al Lundstrom, City Forrester/Park Maintenance Supervisor; Tim Teynor, Assistant City Forrester; Heather Hegi, GIS Technician. 3. Approval of Agenda MOTION by Commissioner Stremel, seconded by Commissioner Hansen to approve the agenda of November 23, 2020 and the motion carried. 4. Approval of September 30, 2020 Regular Meeting Minutes MOTION by Commissioner Weirich, seconded by Commissioner Hansen to approve the minutes of August 24, 2020 as submitted and the motion carried. 5. Update on Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) A. With the exception of the Duluth area, the infected areas in MN are in the Twin Cities and South. B. Although EAB can fly up to a mile, the most common ways they spread are by human transport in Firewood, Pallets, Nursery Stock, Logs, & any part of an ash tree with the bark still attached. November 23, 2020 – 6:30 pm City of Golden Valley Environmental Commission Regular Meeting November 23, 2020 – 6:30 pm 2 C. General symptoms seen in an affected tree are canopy thinning, epicormic sprouting, and larval galleries. D. Adult beetles lay eggs on the bark of ash trees. When the eggs hatch, the larvae (immature beetles) bore into the bark and feed on the transportation tissues of the tree. This disrupts the movement of nutrients and water within the tree, girdling it and causing tree death. E. Golden Valley’s Plan for EAB includes: i. Community Preparedness and Response Plan 1. Inventory Ash Trees and determine their liability 2. 2020 Inventory Grant a. Inventory trees within 40’ of trails i. Ash Trees greater than 6” diameter ii. ‘High Risk’ Trees 1. Trees that may present a hazard to those using the trails 2. Risk mitigation activities recommended on each tree to prune or remove Immediately, Remove as Soon as Realistically Possible, Removed Eventually, or Pruned as Part of Cyclic Tree Maintenance. b. 12 Sites & 411 Trees Inventoried i. 257 Ash Trees ii. 154 ‘High Risk’ Trees 1. Remove Immediately – 12 2. Remove as Soon as Realistically Possible – 97 3. Removed Eventually – 20 4. Pruned as Part of Cyclic Tree Maintenance - 31 iii. Recommended Action Plan 1. Prioritize trees by trail usage 2. Remove/Prune the highest risk trees and remove any ash trees within proximity at same time 3. Remove a total of 10% of identified ash trees each year, starting with the highest risk and “moving down the risk ladder.” 3. Removal & Replacement 4. Wood Utilization & Disposal 5. Communication ii. Ordinances iii. Funding iv. Public Education City of Golden Valley Environmental Commission Regular Meeting November 23, 2020 – 6:30 pm 3 2012 Inventory Primarily open space trees were inventoried. Nature Areas were not included in the numbers above. 2020 Inventory 6. Old Business A. Environmental Justice Collaboration i. Speaker: Dr. Mark Seeley from the U of MN ii. 1 hour – 45 minutes speaking, 15 minutes Q&A MOTION by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Galonska to approve using $150 of Commission funds for a Speaker on Climate Justice and Climate Change and the motion carried. B. Partners in Energy Update i. Between workshops 3&4. Workshop 4 will happen in early December. Workshop 5 will be early 2021. All workshops may be done by the next time the EC meets. ii. Energy Action Team took the word ‘Greener’ out of the Vision Statement. iii. Large goal for what the community wants to do for energy reduction: 1. Team decided the goals should be achievable with some hard work. Not too easy, but not so hard it’s impossible. 2. When should the goal date be – 5 years, 10 years, 20 years? The Team liked the idea of having an interim/step goal. Goal will be a percentage in energy reduction, and a greenhouse gas emission reduction. 3. Focus Areas – Short/Medium/Long-Term Strategies for each area: City of Golden Valley Environmental Commission Regular Meeting November 23, 2020 – 6:30 pm 4 a. Reducing Energy Cost Burden b. Energy Efficiency i. Residential energy efficiency ii. Business energy efficiency c. Clean or Renewable Energy i. Renewable Residential Energy ii. Renewable Business Energy iii. Preparing for Electric Vehicles C. Recycling and Organics Update i. Presented to the City Council on the RFP progress. There were questions about hauler engagement, and education and tagging and incorporating that into the RFP. They also questioned how the handling of the program roll-out will go and the opting out, especially if there is a large number of residents returning carts. ii. Council is on board with moving forward with the RFP. 7. New Business A. Green Building Guide i. Process that eliminates negative environmental impacts over the course of a building’s lifespan. The current Green Building Guide focuses mainly on the early stages of design and creation of the building and is specifically designed for new builds and renovations in Golden Valley. ii. A lot of big sections to the Guide: 1. Renewable Energy – Resources for builders looking to connect with renewable energy both through Utilities and creating their own (solar). 2. Exterior Building Components – Roofing, Siding, Windows, addressing R- Values for insulation and U-Factors for doors and windows, and cool/green roofs. 3. Interior Building Components – Resources for builders to find local sources, and recycled sources for interior components such as carpet, tile, linoleum, wood flooring. Also, fuel efficiency for heating and cooling systems and appliances (Energy Star). Improving indoor air quality with source control, ventilation, and air cleaners. 4. Landscaping – Native landscaping and providing resources for where to purchase native seeds, how to build a pollinator garden, and how to build a rain garden and rain barrels. 5. Waste Reduction During Construction – Reusing and Recycling construction items. iii. Currently verifying it’s in sync with the City’s Building Codes and are working with the City’s Communication Team to get it onto the website. iv. Will not be hard to maintain. Will be up to Hennepin County Standards and the links are to other government agencies and non-profits who maintain their websites really well. City of Golden Valley Environmental Commission Regular Meeting November 23, 2020 – 6:30 pm 5 v. Currently there are no “rewards” to encourage builders to use this guide. It’s just a guiding document for those looking to pursue a cleaner/greener building process. B. GreenStep Cities MOTION by Commissioner Yahle, seconded by Commissioner Hill to approve submitting Metrics 1.4, 1.6, and 11.5 to GreenStep Cities as submitted and the motion carried. C. 2021 Meeting Dates MOTION by Commissioner Galonska, seconded by Commissioner Stremel to approve the 2021 Meeting Dates as submitted and the motion carried with the following change: • Change the December meeting date from December 27 to December 20. D. Program/Project Updates i. None E. Council Updates i. The council is looking to lower the speed limit in residential areas to 20 mph. There will be an opportunity for community engagement since there will be an ordinance change. F. Other Business i. Residents can take a survey right now as part of the Hennepin County Climate Action Plan. 8. Adjournment MOTION by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Hansen to adjourn the meeting at 8:30 pm and the motion carried. ATTEST: _________________________________ _________________________________________ Carrie Nelson, Administrative Assistant Scott Seys, Chair G:\Environmental Commission\Memos Date: January 21, 2021 To: Environmental Commission From: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor Drew Chirpich, Environmental Specialist Story Schwantes, MN GreenCorps Member Subject: Recycling and Organics Update In November 2020, City Council directed staff to finalize and issue a Request For Proposals (RFP) for Residential Curbside Recycling and Organics Recycling Services based on the recommendations provided by the Environmental Commission in June 2020. Staff is anticipating that the RFP will be issued in late January and that proposals will be reviewed in February and March, with award of contract scheduled for spring 2021. Both recycling and organics services are scheduled to begin in January 2022. City Council chose to move forward with the City Contract, All-In option because it offers the lowest costs to residents and has the opportunity for the highest participation rates, compared with the other options. This means all Golden Valley residents living in single family through four-plex households will soon have the opportunity for curbside organics recycling and will see an increase to their quarterly recycling bill payments. The RFP process ensures fairness to applicants and transparency to residents. The RFP will help the City choose the best provider while considering a number of variables, including cost, quality of service, and commitment to racial and gender equity and environmental efforts. Staff will continue to provide updates and gather feedback from the Commission as the process continues. G:\Environmental Commission\Memos\Monarch Pledge & Bee City Date: January 21, 2021 To: Environmental Commission From: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor Subject: Xcel Energy’s Partners In Energy Update – Workshop 4 In order to achieve the energy goals identified in the Resilience & Sustainability chapter of the City’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan and continue to advance in the GreenStep Cities program, the City applied for and was accepted into the Partners In Energy Community Collaboration Program in February 2020. The City assembled a team of community members to develop the energy action plan for the community. The milestone schedule follows: • Project kickoff meeting April 2020 • Assemble energy action planning team - spring/summer 2020 • Workshop 1 August 2020 - vision statement • Workshop 2 September 2020 - focus areas • Workshop 3 November 2020 - goals and strategies • Workshop 4 December 2020 - strategies and tactics • Workshop 5 January 27, 2021 – finalize plan • Implement energy action plan 2021-2022 Energy Action Planning team member Golanska and staff will provide an update to the Commission and an overview of the information shared at Workshop 4 (attached). Commission members should review the attachment and come to the meeting with any questions or comments they may have for the project team and its upcoming Workshop 5. Golden Valley Workshop 4 December 14, 2020 © 2020, Xcel Energy PARTNERS IN ENERGY GOLDEN VALLEY WORKSHOP 4 DECEMBER 14, 2020 TODAY’S WORKSHOP WILL BE RECORDED 1 2 Golden Valley Workshop 4 December 14, 2020 © 2020, Xcel Energy THIS AFTERNOON’S AGENDA Taking Stock Where are we What’s left Goal Discussion Going deeper on Strategies and Tactics 3 PLAN FRAMEWORK What will we do to deliver on each strategy? Which strategies will maximize the impact of each focus area? How will we focus our efforts to achieve our goal? How will we know if we are successful? What is our vision for Golden Valley’s energy future? Golden Valley will be a more sustainable and resilient community where the benefits of using and sourcing energy wisely accrue equitably to every resident, business, and visitor. Goal Identify Educate Coordinate 1. Residential 2. Business 1. Residential 2. Business Tactics Tactics Tactics Reducing Energy Burden Energy Efficiency Clean Energy 4 3 4 Golden Valley Workshop 4 December 14, 2020 © 2020, Xcel Energy SETTING GOALS FOR GOLDEN VALLEY We decided … 1.To set a long-term goal and support it with interim goals 2.That greenhouse gas avoidance is our long-term goal 3.To set easy to understand targets for interim goals But more specifically, …. We need numerical, date-specific goals We need consensus on the specifics of our interim goals 5 TRENDS IN GROWTH AND CONSUMPTION Baseline energy savings Electricity: 2.28% annually Natural gas: 1.21% annually MMBTU:1.58% annually Golden Valley Household Growth Projection 5.5% by 2030 (.0542% annually) 6 5 6 Golden Valley Workshop 4 December 14, 2020 © 2020, Xcel Energy GROWTH VS EFFICIENCY 10,800 11,400 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 Household Growth Historical Efficiency Savings -1.58% annual savings 7 GOAL PREFERENCES FROM LAST WORKSHOP 8 7 8 Golden Valley Workshop 4 December 14, 2020 © 2020, Xcel Energy PLANNING ASSUMPTIONS 1.Energy efficiency savings must exceed 1.58% annually to outpace HH growth 2.Energy efficiency savings will come from using Xcel Energy and CenterPoint programs Additional savings may come from initiatives outside the scope of this plan (e.g., legislation) 3.Focus on popular, highly effective programs Assume 5% annual growth in participation 4.Assume other programs will continue to deliver at baseline averages 5.Assume 5% growth in renewable energy subscriptions 9 XCEL ENERGY AND CENTERPOINT PROGRAMS Program Area Program Name Efficient New Home Construction Home Energy Audit Home Energy Savings Program Home Energy Squad Low-Income Home Energy Squad Multi-Family Energy Savings Program Refrigerator Recycling Residential Residential Cooling Residential Heating Residential Saver's Switch Home Efficiency Rebates DIY Home Efficiency Home Insulation Rebates High-Efficiency Home New Home Construction Rebates Low-Income Weatherization Program Area Program Name Computer Efficiency Cooling Efficiency Data Center Efficiency Efficiency Controls Electric Rate Savings Energy Design Assistance Energy Efficient Buildings Energy Information Systems Commercial Fluid System Optimization Lighting Efficiency Motor Efficiency Multi-Family Building Efficiency Saver's Switch For Business Small Business Lighting Turn Key Services Commercial Foodservice Equipment Rebates C&I Heating and Water Heating Rebates Energy Design Assistance Engineering & Certification Assistance Recommissioning Study & Rebates 10 9 10 Golden Valley Workshop 4 December 14, 2020 © 2020, Xcel Energy RESIDENTIAL ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAMS Program Name 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 Efficient New Home Construction 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 Home Energy Savings Program 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 17 Home Energy Squad 41 43 45 47 50 52 55 58 61 64 67 Low-Income Home Energy Squad 3 3 3 3 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 Multi-Family Energy Savings Program 41 43 45 47 50 52 55 58 61 64 67 Refrigerator Recycling 61 64 67 71 74 78 82 86 90 95 99 Residential Cooling 191 201 211 221 232 244 256 269 282 296 311 Residential Heating 173 182 191 200 210 221 232 243 256 268 282 Residential Saver's Switch 233 233 233 233 233 233 233 233 233 233 233 CenterPoint Home Efficiency Rebates 367 367 367 367 367 367 367 367 367 367 367 CenterPoint DIY Home Efficiency 102 105 105 105 105 105 105 105 105 105 105 CenterPoint Home Insulation Rebates 16 16 16 16 16 16 16 16 16 16 16 CenterPoint High-Efficiency Home 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 CenterPoint New Home Construction Rebates 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 CenterPoint Low-Income Weatherization 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 11 COMMERCIAL ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAMS Program Name 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 Cooling Efficiency 12 13 13 14 15 15 16 17 18 19 20 Data Center Efficiency 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 Efficiency Controls 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 Electric Rate Savings 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 Energy Design Assistance 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Energy Efficient Buildings 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Fluid System Optimization 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 Lighting Efficiency 69 72 76 80 84 88 92 97 102 107 112 Motor Efficiency 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 Multi-Family Building Efficiency 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 Saver's Switch For Business 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 Small Business Lighting 41 43 45 47 50 52 55 58 61 64 67 Turn-Key Services 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 CenterPoint Commercial Programs 64 67 71 74 78 82 86 90 95 99 104 CenterPoint Natural Gas Energy Analysis 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 CenterPoint Energy Design Assistance 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 CenterPoint Engineering & Certification Assistance 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 12 11 12 Golden Valley Workshop 4 December 14, 2020 © 2020, Xcel Energy CHANGES IN PROGRAM PARTICIPATION 1,521 1,847 178 254 0 100 200 300 - 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 Residential Participation Commercial Participation 13 ENERGY SAVINGS SCENARIOS (MMBTU) 3,422 2,882 2,369 0 700 1,400 2,100 2,800 3,500 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030MMBtuThousands BAU Growth Historic Participation Energy Action Plan Impact 14 13 14 Golden Valley Workshop 4 December 14, 2020 © 2020, Xcel Energy ELECTRICITY SAVINGS BY PREMISE TYPE (KWH) 305,259 242,528 - 70,000 140,000 210,000 280,000 350,000 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030kWhThousands Commercial Residential Remaining Energy 15 NATURAL GAS SAVINGS BY PREMISE TYPE (THERMS) 21,149 17,729 - 5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000 25,000 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030ThermsThousands Commercial Residential Remaining Energy 16 15 16 Golden Valley Workshop 4 December 14, 2020 © 2020, Xcel Energy GREENHOUSE GAS AVOIDANCE (MTCO2E) 210,182 137,094 - 50,000 100,000 150,000 200,000 250,000 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030MtCO2e Grid Decarbonization Renewable Energy Commercial Residential Remaining Emissions 17 MOVING FROM CURRENT EMISSIONS TO 2030 WILL BE LIKE Removing 15,790 cars from the road for a year Eliminating the emissions from 80,529,643 pounds of coal This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND •This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND18 17 18 Golden Valley Workshop 4 December 14, 2020 © 2020, Xcel Energy GOAL SETTING THOUGHT STARTERS Avoid XXX,000 MTCO2e from consumption of electricity and natural gas by 12/31/2030 Increase participation in identified high priority efficiency programs 5% annually between 6/1/2021 and 12/31/2030 By 12/31/2030, reduce the incidence of high and/or severely energy burdened homes in Golden Valley to Half? (less?/more?) of the rate found in (other Twin Cities suburbs?, Hennepin County, Minnesota?) ? Half? (less?/more?) of the rate in Golden Valley at the initiation of this plan? X% 19 LET’S TAKE A BREAK 19 20 Golden Valley Workshop 4 December 14, 2020 © 2020, Xcel Energy PLAN FRAMEWORK What will we do to deliver on each strategy? Which strategies will maximize the impact of each focus area? How will we focus our efforts to achieve our goal? How will we know if we are successful? What is our vision for Golden Valley’s energy future? Golden Valley will be a more sustainable and resilient community where the benefits of using and sourcing energy wisely accrue equitably to every resident, business, and visitor. Long-term: Greenhouse gas avoidance, energy burden reduction Interim: Participation targets for key programs Identify Educate Coordinate 1. Residential 2. Business 1. Residential 2. Business Tactics Tactics Tactics Reducing Energy Burden Energy Efficiency Clean Energy Goal 21 TIME FOR A BRAINSTORM Reducing Energy Burden Energy Efficiency Clean Energy 22 21 22 Golden Valley Workshop 4 December 14, 2020 © 2020, Xcel Energy TIME FOR A BRAINSTORM Reducing Energy Burden Locate Educate Coordinate Home Energy Savings Program Multi-Family Energy Savings Program LIHEAP Residential Home Energy Squad Refrigerator Recycling Residential Cooling Residential Heating Commercial Cooling Efficiency Lighting Efficiency Multi-Family Building Efficiency Small Business Lighting C&I Heating and Water Heating Rebates Subscription Windsource Renewable Connect Solar Rewards Community On-site Solar Solar Rewards Energy Efficiency Clean Energy 23 BRAINSTORMING – THE ROUND ROBIN CHALLENGE Working on one challenge that the focus area will confront Best idea you can think of in a minute. Use chat to send it to the next person on the list you’ll see in your group. Next person copies the idea, pastes it into chat, and adds something to make the idea better, more fun, more productive – whatever. After a minute, send it to the next person on the list Last person adds their own idea to improve the concept and then shares with the group Energy Efficiency Group Round 1 Round 2 Round 3 Mike Eric Tami Eric Tami Linden Tami Linden Nick Linden Nick Mike Nick Mike Eric 24 23 24 Golden Valley Workshop 4 December 14, 2020 © 2020, Xcel Energy EXAMPLE Challenge 1: Convince Golden Valley homeowners that they should schedule a Home Energy Squad visit Mike thinks of an idea “Make a video to explain what happens during a visit.” Mike uses chat to send the idea to Eric Eric Eric: We should do a video to show people in Golden Valley what a Home Energy Squad visit is like! 25 EXAMPLE CONT’D Eric has an idea to make Mike’s better. We could use a person (people) who people in Golden Valley would know. Eric copies the chat message, Gets ready to send a chat message to Tami Pastes the original, adds his idea and sends it to Tami Eric Eric: We should do a video to show people in Golden Valley what a Home Energy Squad visit is like! We should do a video to show people in Golden Valley what a Home Energy Squad visit is like! Tami We should do a video to show people in Golden Valley what a Home Energy Squad visit is like! And we can use a person (or people) who people in Golden Valley would know. Eric: We should do a video to show people in Golden Valley what a Home Energy Squad visit is like! Eric: 26 25 26 Golden Valley Workshop 4 December 14, 2020 © 2020, Xcel Energy EXAMPLE, CONT’D Tami gets Eric’s message and adds her own idea to it. We could send out postcards to residents in neighborhoods with the oldest houses to publicize the video and give them a YouTube link where they could view it. On the back side, we’d have the Home Energy Squad phone number and make it a coupon for $25 off if they schedule within a week. Then she sends it to the breakout group leader and shares it with the group After all the ideas are shared, the leader recaps the ideas The team picks their 2 favorites and moves to the next challenge 27 ENERGY BURDEN GROUP 1.How can we get the message to people who may be energy-burdened that there’s help available? 2.Sometimes people are embarrassed to ask for help, or their cultural backgrounds make it shameful to do so. What can we do to help people feel better about asking for help. 3.Many energy-burdened families live in multi-family buildings where they don’t have any say in the efficiency of the building but they still have to pay their own energy bills. How can we help? Energy Burden Group Round 1 Round 2 Round 3 Ben Lehman Tami Tami Tami Gunderzik Julianne Julianne Julianne Laue Michelle Michelle Michelle Ness Kade Kade Kade Arms-Regenold Story Story Story Schwantes Ben Ben 29 27 29 Golden Valley Workshop 4 December 14, 2020 © 2020, Xcel Energy ENERGY EFFICIENCY GROUP How do we convince people in Golden Valley to schedule a Home Energy Squad visit? Smaller businesses in Golden Valley don’t have the advantages that bigger businesses do when it comes to knowing all the latest energy efficiency opportunities (many of which are free). How do we fix that? Upgrading to new heating or cooling equipment offers great efficiency improvements, but it can be expensive, especially if the current equipment is still working. How can we help residents (or businesses) decide that it’s time to replace their current equipment. Energy Efficiency Group Round 1 Round 2 Round 3 Emma Schoppe Jeff Larry Jeff Curtes Larry Nick Larry Fonnest Nick Andrea Nick Thielen Andrea Michelle Andrea Bishop Michelle Emma Michelle Swanson Emma Jeff 30 CLEAN ENERGY GROUP There are still many residents in Golden Valley who don’t use Windsource or Renewable Connect. What could we do to have them consider a subscription? We’ve heard that some businesses reject renewable energy unless there’s a reputation advantage available, too. What would help Golden Valley businesses benefit from the reputation improvement that supporting clean energy offers. Which groups of people in Golden Valley already care a lot about clean energy? (Clubs? Congregations? Age Groups?, etc) How could we get them involved on helping to spread enthusiasm for clean energy to their neighbors? Clean Energy Group Round 1 Round 2 Round 3 Andy Snope Eric Linden Eric Eckman Linden Yvonne Linden Weiswerda Yvonne Ashley Yvonne Pfeifer Ashley Tonia Ashley Haung Tonia Andy Tonia Galonska Andy Eric 31 30 31 Golden Valley Workshop 4 December 14, 2020 © 2020, Xcel Energy RECAP ENERGY BURDEN ENERGY EFFICIENCY CLEAN ENERGY 32 32 G:\Environmental Commission\Memos Date: January 21, 2021 To: Environmental Commission From: Story Schwantes, MN GreenCorps Member Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor Subject: Using Goats for Vegetation Management In its 2020 Work Plan, the Environmental Commission included the following action: • Natural Resources Management Plan: Continue to assist in implementation of the plan, including: o exploring the potential to revise City Code to allow temporary use of goats for vegetation management on public and private properties For background, staff has received numerous requests over the past few years from residents, contractors, and public entities to utilize goats to manage vegetation on properties in Golden Valley. Staff is generally supportive of this reduced chemical management method and would appreciate the Environmental Commission’s input and feedback before approaching city council with a recommendation to revise city code. In August 2020, the Commission reviewed and discussed resources including a report from a former GreenCorps member, staff experience, recent articles, and other cities’ codes and websites related to goat grazing. Ordinances and license applications from the Cities of Cottage Grove and Maplewood were particularly helpful in serving as models for Golden Valley. Attached is a draft ordinance and license application for Commission review. Staff requests that the Commission come to the January 25 meeting prepared to discuss the ordinance and provide a recommendation to Council for a proposed change to city code to allow the temporary keeping of goats for vegetation management. DRAFT ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CITY CODE An Ordinance Allowing the Temporary Keeping of Goats Chapter 6 - Animals Article III – Keeping and Maintenance Sec. 6-70. - Keeping. (6) Goats in accordance with the terms in Sec. 6-77. Sec. 6-77. Temporary Keeping of Goats. It is the purpose of this article to License the temporary keeping of goats brought in for the purpose of vegetation management, which may include non-native, invasive or noxious species. 1. Definitions. a. Buck means a male goat. b. Doe means a female goat. c. Goat means an animal in the subspecies of Capra aegagrus hircus. d. Grazing means goats eating vegetation. e. Wethers means a castrated buck. 2. License: No person shall own, harbor, or keep within the City goats unless a valid license for such goats has been obtained pursuant to the provisions stated herein. a. Upon receipt of a completed application, the City shall send a notice to property owners that are located within 150 feet of the grazing area that there is a license application. Such notice shall not be required if the grazing area is 150 feet or more from any residential building or commercial building on the adjacent property. If, within 10 days of such notice, there are objections by 75% of the property owners in the notice area, then the license must be considered for approval or denial by the City Council. b. Following the expiration of the 10-day notice period above, absent the receipt of the required number of objections by property owners in the notice area, the city clerk or designee shall issue a license for goats. Failure to meet the requirements shall result in denial of the license. 3. Application: Any person desiring a license required under the provisions of this ordinance shall make written application to the city clerk upon a form provided by the city. The application shall contain the following: a. A description of the real property upon which it is desired to keep goats. b. The breed and number of goats to be maintained on the property. c. The dates the goats will be kept at the property. d. A detailed site plan of the property showing the location and size of the proposed grazing area including dimensions, the location of stormwater ponds and pipes, wetlands, lakes, streams, and drainage ways, a list of the vegetation on the property that is sought to be controlled by the grazing and the location of the fencing, as well as any goat pen or enclosure. e. List of person(s) managing and monitoring the goats, including 24-hour contact information, accompanied by evidence of liability insurance in the amount of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence. f. Signature from the applicant that the applicant will at all times keep the goats in accordance with all of the conditions prescribed by the city clerk, or modification thereof, and that failure to obey such conditions will constitute a violation of the provisions of this ordinance and grounds for revocation of the License. g. Signature of the property owner, if different than the applicant. h. Application fee as established in the City’s Fee Schedule. 4. Limitations for the keeping of goats. a. Permitted and prohibited goats: does and wethers are permitted; bucks are prohibited. b. Fences: Every owner, keeper, custodian, or harborer of goats shall erect and/or maintain a temporary or permanent fence to contain and confine all goats kept on the premises. The fence shall of sufficient height to contain the goats. A permanent fence shall comply with all fence requirements of this code. Any temporary electric fence shall have appropriate warning signs. A double row of fencing with at least 5 feet separating fences shall be required for any grazing area accessible to the public. The goats may be moved to a separate holding pen at night, which shall be located at least 150 feet from all residential buildings. All fencing and any temporary holding pens must be removed within 7 days after the goats are removed from the property. c. Water resources: Goats shall be kept no closer than 25 feet from stormwater ponds and pipes, wetlands, lakes, streams, and drainage ways without adequate perimeter protection/barriers to capture nutrients and pollutants that may runoff the land. d. Number of goats allowed: Up to four goats on parcels that are 10,000 square feet in area or less, with one additional goat per every 2,500 square feet of lot area over 10,000 square feet, to a maximum of 50 goats per parcel. e. Maintenance: All sites on which goats are kept or maintained shall be kept clean from filth, garbage, and any substances which attract rodents. f. Odor: The site shall be cleaned frequently enough to control odor. Manure shall not be allowed to accumulate in a way that causes an unsanitary condition or causes odors detectible on another property. Failure to comply with these conditions may result in the City revoking the license and requiring the removal of the goats from the premises. g. Nuisance: Goats shall not be kept in such a manner as to constitute a nuisance to the occupants of adjacent property. h. The property shall be available for inspections by the city at all reasonable times to determine compliance with this ordinance, other city codes or state law. 5. Violations. a. A violation of any provision of this ordinance or a condition of the license shall be grounds for revocation of the license by the city clerk. b. Any person violating any conditions of this license shall reimburse the city for all costs borne by the city to enforce the conditions of the license including but not limited to the impounding and safekeeping of the goats. c. If any person is found guilty by a court for violation of this ordinance, their license to temporarily keep goats shall be deemed automatically revoked and no new license may be issued for a period of one (1) year. 6. Term of License: No property owner or person shall store goats on a property for more than 30 consecutive days or 60 days in any 12-month period starting with the date the animals are moved onto the property. 7. Exception: No license shall be required by a government agency as part of a vegetation management program on city, county or state-owned property. GOAT LICENSE Guidance relating to the temporary keeping of goats is contained in the Golden Valley City Chapter X, Article X. All license holders are required to be familiar with the provisions of this chapter. LICENSE APPLICATION CHECKLIST: To prevent delay, please ensure the following information is submitted. Incomplete applications are not accepted and will be returned immediately. o Goat LICENSE application o License Fee of $75.00 o Liability insurance in the amount of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence o Site Plan detailing the following:  Location and size of grazing area  Location of nearby water resources and stormwater features  List of all person(s) managing and monitoring the goats  Fence type and dimensions Golden Valley Property Address Address: __________________________________________________________________________________ Applicant Information (individual responsible for license activity) Name of Applicant: ___________________________ Job Title (if applicable): __________________________ Phone Number: ______________________________ E-Mail Address: _________________________________ Property Owner (if different than applicant) Name _______________________________________ Phone Number: ________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________________________________ City: ________________________________________________________ State: _________ Zip: ___________ E-Mail Address: ___________________________________ Approved By: □ Enviromental Specialist □ City Clerk Fee Paid: Receipt #: Insurance: Y/N Additional Person(s)/Business (responsible for managing and monitoring goats on the property) Name _______________________________________ Phone Number: ________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________________________________ City: ________________________________________________________ State: _________ Zip: ___________ E-Mail Address: ___________________________________ 24-hour contact information:_________________________________________________________________________ Evidence of liability insurance in the amount of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence Y / N Property Information Number of goats to be kept on property: _____________________________________________ Allowed up to four goats on parcels that are 10,000 square feet in area or less, with one additional goat per every 2,500 square feet of lot area over 10,000 square feet, to a maximum of 50 goats per parcel. Breed of Goats: ______________________________________________________________________ Date(s) Goats will be on property (max. 30 consecutive days or 60 days per 12-mo period, beginning date animals moved on to property.) Begin Date: ____________________ End Date: ____________________ Begin Date: ____________________ End Date: ____________________ Begin Date: ____________________ End Date: ____________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________ The applicant agrees: I acknowledge to, at all times, keep the goats in accordance with all the conditions specified by the officer, or a modification thereof. I acknowledge that failure to obey such conditions will constitute a violation of City Code Chapter 10, Article X and grounds for cancellation of the license. I acknowledge that failure to obey such conditions will constitute a violation of City Code Chapter X, Article X and are grounds for issuance of a criminal citation to the applicant. The data in this application will be used to approve your license and shall be deemed public unless private by State Statute. Private data is available to you and the City or State staff who need this information to perform their duties, but is not available to the public. You are not legally required to provide this data, but the City may not be able to approve your license if you do not provide it. I will familiarize myself with the provisions of the Golden Valley City Code, and with applicable Minnesota Statutes and federal regulations. I will keep the goats in accordance with all of the conditions prescribed by the officer, or modification thereof, and it is understood that failure to do so may constitute grounds for denial, suspension or revocation of this license and/or the issuance of a citation to the applicant. I declare that the information I have provided on this application is truthful and I understand that falsification of answers on this application will result in denial of the application. I authorize the City of Maplewood to investigate and make whatever inquiries necessary to verify the information provided. Applicant Signature: __________________________________________ Date: __________________________ Property Owner Signature: ____________________________________ Date: __________________________ Office Use Only Plan Submitted: Yes/No Fence(s) Provided: Yes/No Water Resources: Yes/No Water protection provided: Yes/No Sq. Footage of Area Number Goats Approved Dates Approved From To Approval by Adjacent Properties % G:\Environmental Commission\Memos Date: January 21, 2021 To: Environmental Commission From: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor Subject: 2021 Work Plan Ideas As stated in its bylaws, the Commission is required to develop an annual work plan for review and approval by City Council. The draft work plan for 2021 will be based upon the City’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan, GreenStep Cities Program, Council legislative priorities, and the Energy Action Plan which is nearing completion this winter. http://www.goldenvalleymn.gov/planning/comprehensiveplanupdate/index.php https://greenstep.pca.state.mn.us/best-practices https://www.flipsnack.com/goldenvalleymn/legislative-priorities-2021/full-view.html Attached is the 2020 work plan to get the conversation started. Commission members should come to the meeting prepared to discuss the current work plan and any ideas for future items they wish to have considered. There will be additional discussion and development of the draft work plan at the February meeting, ahead of Commission approval in March and Council consideration in April. 2020 Work Plan Proposed work plan priorities for 2020 are based on goals in the Resilience & Sustainability, Water Resources, and Parks & Natural Resources chapters of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan, the GreenStep Cities Program, and the City’s participation in Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy Community Collaboration Program. • Curbside Organics Collection Continue to explore options and provide information/recommendation to the City Council; assist in developing and implementing a new organics program • Xcel Energy’s Partners In Energy Program Help guide and participate in the development and implementation of the City’s Energy Action Plan including: o advance building performance (supporting state and local efforts to update building codes or standards that advance energy performance in buildings) o energy benchmarking in private buildings • GreenStep Cities Step 5: Continue working on actions and metrics to address climate-related impacts, improve the environment, and reduce energy consumption and costs. o If awarded a MN GreenCorps Member in 2020-2021, work to complete GreenStep Cities actions related to Climate and Energy Action. • Community Outreach: Use the Commission’s $3,500 budget to: o fund a joint project, speaker, or event with the Human Rights Commission o host an educational workshop on sustainable yards and pollinator habitat (approximately $1,500 for Metro Blooms Workshop #3 in a series of 3) o administer a student essay competition • Climate Justice and Environmental Justice: Partner with Human Rights Commission on joint project, event, or speaker. May require joint meeting. Ties in well with City’s Resilience and Sustainability Plan. Potential ideas for collaboration include: o hosting a speaker on climate justice and environmental justice focusing on climate adaptation and resilience or promoting community gardens and local food production o sponsoring a project in an area of the City with inequities of green space and amenities, or pairing a community event with planting trees and vegetation in that area • Zero-Waste Community: Assist the City in hosting a community event in 2020. • Natural Resources Management Plan: Continue to assist in implementation of the plan, including: o exploring the potential to revise City Code to allow temporary use of goats for vegetation management on public and private properties o providing an update on Emerald Ash Borer Management o supporting habitat restoration in the Pennsylvania Woods Nature Area in 2020-21 with DNR Grant funds • Downtown Redevelopment Study: Engage in environmental aspects of the study and plan • Pollinators: Complete actions listed in the City’s Pollinator Protection resolution, such as: o doing an inventory and reducing the use of chemicals on City properties o developing more plots and habitat in the community • Air Quality: Review City code with respect to wood burning and update as needed to protect and maintain local air quality. • Recycling: Reduce single use plastics and containers. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Additional items to consider: • Supporting habitat restoration in the Briarwood Nature Area in 2021-22 with DNR Grant funds • Assist in updating the City’s Stormwater Management Program • Assist in updating the City’s Shoreland Management Ordinance PROGRAM/PROJECT UPDATES – January 2021 GREENCORPS MEMBER 2020-2021 service term – Story, the 2020-2021 GreenCorps member, has been working on compiling and organizing data for the GreenStep cities program in order to help the City get to Step 5. Other projects have included creating a Green Building Guide with resources for residents and commercial builders looking to construct environmentally-conscious buildings and working to advance the City’s building energy efficiency improvements. RECYCLING/ORGANICS Annual Recycling Report- Golden Valley staff received its year-end recycling report for 2020. The participation rate remained at 92%, and overall tonnages went up 3% from last year for a total of 57.32 tons. The report stated that the Cities contamination rate is at only 6%, which is near the top for municipalities. The report also included commodity value tables that showed improvement this year in end markets for most recyclable materials. NATURAL RESOURCES Briarwood DNR Habitat Grant – The City recently applied for a habitat grant from the DNR for the Briarwood Nature Area. If awarded, the project will involve the removal of buckthorn and other invasive species, and the planting and establishment of native vegetation. Pollinator Plots – The City executed a contract with Prairie Restorations Inc to install two new pollinator plots along Douglas Drive on parcels currently being mowed and managed as turf grass. These locations ranked among the highest by the Commission in its scoring matrix for potential pollinator plots. The contractor started work in fall 2020 and will continue prepping the plots this spring, with plantings, signage and maintenance to follow. WATER RESOURCES DeCola Ponds Flood Mitigation: SEA School-Wildwood Park The City and Bassett Creek Watershed are planning and studying the next project area in the long-term flood mitigation plan. The SEA School-Wildwood Park area has been identified as having potential for flood storage to benefit properties around DeCola Ponds D, E, and F. The City wrapped up its planning study in November 2020 and began working with the Watershed on the engineering feasibility study. In December, the DNR informed the City and its partners that $1.3 million will be granted to help fund the SEA School -Wildwood Park project as part of the 2020 state bonding bill signed by the Governor in October. This will allow Golden Valley and its partners to update flood models, engage with residents and stakeholders, evaluate site conditions, and develop concept plans ahead of final design and construction. Project partners include the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission (BCWMC), the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MnDNR), Hennepin County, and the Robbinsdale School District. The engineering feasibility study for the SEA School-Wildwood Park flood reduction project is currently under way, and more opportunities for community engagement are planned in February/March. For more information about the project and upcoming engagement opportunities, visit the SEA School-Wildwood Park Flood Reduction Project website. Medley Park Stormwater Improvement Study The Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission (BCWMC) in partnership with the City of Golden Valley is engaging in a feasibility study to evaluate options for providing stormwater improvements in the western portion of Medley Park in 2022-2023. The primary benefits of the proposed project include improving the water quality of Medicine Lake and nearby surface waters, reducing flood risk and damage to homes and infrastructure, protecting public health and safety, and preserving economic value. Additional benefits include improving ecological diversity, wildlife and pollinator habitat, enhancing active and passive recreation, and providing educational opportunities to park users. The study will include community engagement to better understand existing conditions, issues, and needs and to help develop concept plans for consideration this winter. The virtual concept plan review is scheduled for March 2021. Check the project webpage for more information and for upcoming engagement opportunities. MS4 Stormwater Permit – The MPCA released the new 5-year municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) permit in November. Cities will have about a year to update ordinances, plans, policies, and procedures to maintain compliance with the state permit requirements. This process will begin in early 2021 with application for extended permit coverage and will continue into 2022. If you have questions or comments about the City’s stormwater program, please email Drew Chirpich at dchirpich@goldenvalleymn.gov. CLIMATE ACTION Hennepin County Climate Action Plan – In summer 2020, Hennepin County staff hosted listening sessions with partner entities like cities, watersheds, and park boards and provided a stakeholder survey for additional input. Slides from the meeting are attached. County staff took the information from its internal and external meetings this spring and summer to continue the development of its climate action plan. On September 24, Hennepin County staff briefed the County Board on its proposed goals and strategies and received input and direction from County Board members on how these strategies can translate into budget priorities and investments. In late 2020, the County hosted community feedback sessions and offered a survey to all residents. Attached is the latest information from the County regarding the feedback sessions, the survey and the climate action plan moving forward. PLANNING COMMISSION – Dec 4, 2020 7324 Harold Avenue—A subdivision request to split one lot into two in the R-2 Zoning District. The existing structure would be demolished and two new homes would be constructed. A public hearing is scheduled for December 14. 750 Boone Avenue North—A Conditional Use Permit to allow the operation of an Animal Hospital in a Light Institutional Zoning District. An existing 1950s office building would be demolished and a new structure would be constructed to house a specialty veterinary hospital. A public hearing is scheduled for December 14. Regency Hospital Expansion – 1300 Hidden Lakes Parkway - The hospital has applied for a PUD Amendment to allow it to expand its building and provide 26 additional rooms. This expansion is proposed to be to the east, away from Sweeney Lake. Stormwater management would be improved as part of the changes, though the parking lot would also be expanded. The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is supportive of the proposal. This will be heard by the Planning Commission on January 25. Adding Rowhouses to the R-2 Zoning District—A Zoning Text Amendment to allow the construction of rowhouses as a permitted use within the R-2 Zoning District. Staff has been providing information about rowhouse regulations in other communities for consideration. Draft language will be discussed on December 28. Use Tables—Zoning Text Amendments to update and simplify the use tables within the Zoning Chapter of the City Code. Staff has covered the uses included in the Commercial Zoning District and will be introducing the Light Industrial and Industrial Zoning district uses on December 28. CITY COUNCIL – Dec 4, 2020 Medium Density Residential (R-3) Density Bonus Policy—On December 15 the City Council will consider adoption of a new Density Bonus Policy for the R-3 Zoning District. As part of the updates to the Medium Density Residential zoning regulations following the adoption of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan, the Planning Commission recommended that existing density bonuses be adjusted to reflect current community goals around sustainability and energy efficiency. The Environmental Commission drafted a detailed policy document that was reviewed by the Planning Commission on November 23. Temporary Outdoor Service Areas—Throughout the summer and fall of 2020, the City allowed restaurants and other retail establishments to temporarily conduct commercial activities outdoors in order to help accommodate the Governor’s COVID restrictions. These permits expired at the end of November. Staff is bringing forward a resolution to extend this option through the winter and into 2021, to expire when the Governor’s orders are terminated. Scheduled for consideration on December 15. Findings from the first phase of public engagement Thank you to everyone who took time to provide feedback on the county’s climate action plan priorities and foundational strategies. This update includes the findings of the most recent phase of public engagement. Feedback sessions In November, staff held a series of feedback sessions with community groups, youth, and the county’s Race Equity Advisory Council. A total of 84 people shared feedback on the climate action plan’s foundational strategies, impacts the community has experienced from climate change, and their priorities for a climate-friendly future. Review a summary of the feedback received (PDF). https://www.hennepin.us/-/media/hennepinus/your-government/projects- initiatives/documents/climate-action-plan-feedback-sessions-report.pdf Survey The county also conducted an online survey for residents that received more than 2,300 responses to learn about impacts the community has experienced from climate change and understand residents’ priorities to inform the plan. The survey also asked about actions residents are already taking and what actions they are interested in taking to mitigate climate change, which will be used to shape future outreach on the plan and guide the county’s education efforts on climate action. Review a summary of the survey (PDF). https://www.hennepin.us/-/media/hennepinus/your-government/projects- initiatives/documents/climate-action-survey-report.pdf How the feedback is being used These summaries have been shared with county commissioners, county administrators and climate team leads. Staff have reviewed the findings and are refining the plan’s goals and strategies based on the feedback received. In reviewing the engagement findings, three key findings rose to the top of our analysis and were shared with county commissioners to consider in their review of the county’s climate action goals and strategies. Key findings The following key findings reflect commonly expressed ideas that garnered strong support. Set ambitious goals and provide bold leadership Most open-ended comments from the online survey stressed the urgency of the issue of climate change and encouraged the county to respond by being ambitious and providing bold leadership. This sentiment was echoed in the listening sessions, with participants noting how Hennepin County’s response will be a catalyst for both local and state efforts. Participants wanted to see a more aggressive timeline and stressed that meaningful metrics need to be established so the county and community could measure progress toward meeting our goals. Climate change is intersectional with racial disparities Although everyone will be impacted by the climate crisis, it will not be experienced equally. Community partners and survey respondents see the connection of systemic racism and environmental injustices. Many community organizations see the county’s development of a climate action plan as an opportunity to advocate for changes in the county’s transportation network and waste management system, specifically operations of the Hennepin Energy Recovery Center (HERC), as well as better health outcomes for people of color. The plan provides a new opportunity to develop and implement a collective vision for: • Health and wellbeing outcomes • Equitable transportation system • Zero waste future • Green economic recovery, workforce development, and job creation Focus on systems change, not individual choice A significant number of survey comments focused on the desire for transformational systems change through leadership and the use of policies, procedures, and incentives rather than focusing on educating residents on the actions they can take individually. At the same time, community partners explained that educating the public and empowering their involvement in change would help expand the county’s reach and the impact of greenhouse gas emission reduction strategies. Community partners expressed the need for the county to authentically partner with communities to empower local leadership and community-driven initiatives to make solutions relevant and effective. Implications to guide next steps The first phase of public engagement with community groups, youth, and the general public provided insights on how the community is experiencing the effects of climate change and helped us understand how our values and priorities align with those of the community. In many instances, we heard that we are generally on the right track, and the community supports us in taking bold and urgent action. We heard the importance of taking an intersectional approach to ensure our climate action plan responds to issues of racial and environmental justice, health, workforce development and other topics. We also heard many good ideas in the meetings for how the plan can better reflect the values and priorities of the community. The following implications from the first phase of engagement will guide the next steps in the development of the climate action plan: Consider more ambitious greenhouse gas emissions goals and refine metrics The county should revisit its greenhouse gas emission reduction goals and use information and guidance available from international, national, state, and local sources to consider more ambitious goals. The county also needs to further analyze the impacts of the climate action plan strategies to refine the metrics that the county, community, and public can use to measure progress. Address disparities while responding to climate change Like other environmental justice issues, those who least contribute to the problem of climate change will be most impacted. In this climate action plan, the county has an opportunity to recognize our obligation to work toward eliminating disparities in our response to climate change. Engage the public to advance collective action The pathway to transformative climate policies must be created by the county and other leaders, and then supported and moved forward by the public. To advance an impactful climate change response, the county needs to engage residents, listen to how climate change is impacting them, and collectively build support for solutions. Defining and articulating our collective vision for a climate-friendly future is critical to motivating collective action. Increase education and empower local leadership Education on individual choice and climate literacy is supported by community members, and community members expressed the need for more education on the impacts and increased awareness about the urgency of the issues. These efforts need to be paired with support of community-led initiatives and empowerment of local leadership. Heighten the connection of climate change impacts to racial equity and health Awareness about the impacts of climate change, especially the connections to racial equity, health, and unequal impacts to vulnerable communities, needs to be heightened. Presenting findings from the vulnerability assessment helped groups who were struggling to see the connections and more clearly understand the full implications of climate change. Pay attention to who is represented, include community- driven solutions, and make equitable investments The county needs to pay attention to how perspectives on issues, who is making decisions, and who delivers the message all matter. There are existing community-driven programs and initiatives that are having big impacts, and it’s important that these groups are represented in the solutions. The county also needs to look at how equitable hiring, contracting, and small business development can be expanded with new investments. Pursue robust, multifaceted, consistent, and ongoing community engagement Community engagement efforts during the formal plan adoption process and during plan implementation need to be multifaceted, robust, and consistent. Participants in the feedback sessions represented a broad diversity of communities in Hennepin County. The participants expressed strong interest in collaboration and commitment to working with the county to ensure the plan is effective and impactful. They were interested in regular updates and ongoing engagement opportunities during the plan development and implementation. Survey respondents tended to be more white and female, which is consistent with the typical demographics for the county’s environmental communication channels. Deeper engagement with more diverse audiences and vulnerable communities will require partnerships with community organizations who can help lead outreach efforts that resonate with their communities. Next steps and timeline County staff are now connecting with county commissioners to discuss the key findings, review plan strategies, and seek guidance on the next steps of public engagement. Staff are working toward the following timeline to seek board adoption of the plan: • February: Make draft plan available for public comment and announce online and virtual feedback opportunities • March: Summarize findings from engagement efforts and make final edits to the plan • April: Board takes up formal adoption of climate plan, which will include a final public comment process