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2022-02-28 EC Agenda Packet7800 Golden Valley Road I Golden Valley, WIN 55427 763-593-8027 � TTY 763-593-3968 1 763-593-8198 (fax) I www.goldenvalleymn.gov Environmental Commission REGULAR MEETING AGENDA city of g�oldvall� Y February 28, 2022 — 6:30 pm City Hall Council Conference Room Remote Attendance: Members of the public may attend this meeting via Webex by calling 1- 415-655-0001 and entering access code 1773 93 4642. Questions/Comments: Members of the public who have questions about the commission or any items on the agenda should contact the staff commission liaison — Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor, eeckman@goldenvalleymn.gov, 763-593-8084. 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of Agenda 4. Approval of January 24, 2022 Regular Meeting Minutes (5 min) 5. Old Business A. Recycling Update (10 min) B. Environmental Justice Collaboration (10 min) 6. New Business A. Energy recognition program (10 min) B. 2022 Work Plan (45 min) C. Program/Project Updates (5 min) D. Council Updates (5 min) E. Other Business 7. Adjournment This document is available in alternate formats upon a 72-hour request. Please call 763-593-8006 (TTY: 763-593-3968) to make a request. Examples of alternate formats may include large print, electronic, Braille, audiocassette, etc. 7800 Golden Valley Road I Golden Valley, RUIN 55427 CZJ 0J 763-593-8027 I TTY 763-593-3968 1 763-593-8198 (fax) I www.goldenvalleymn.gov golden1l...7. Environmental Commission va January 24, 2022 — 6:30 pm REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Remote Attendance: Members of the public may attend this meeting via Webex by calling 1-415-655- 0001 and entering access code 1773 93 4642. Questions/Comments: Members of the public who have questions about the commission or any items on the agenda should contact the staff commission liaison — Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor, eeckman@goldenvalleymn.gov, 763-593-8084. 1. Call to Order The meeting was called to order by Chair Weirich at 8:05 pm following joint meeting with OSRC. 2. Roll Call Commissioners present: Scott Seys, Wendy Weirich, Tonia Galonska, Shannon Hansen, Jim Stremel, Dawn Hill, Debra Yahle Commissioners absent: Felix Fettig Council Members present: None Staff present: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor; Ethan Kehrberg, GreenCorps Member; Carrie Nelson, Administrative Assistant. 3. Approval of Agenda MOTION by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Galonska to approve the agenda for January 24, 2022 and the motion carried with the following addition: • Add Introduction of New Council Liaison, Kimberly Sanberg, in between Approval of Agenda and Approval of 11-22-2021 Minutes. 4. Introduction of new Council Liaison, Kimberly Sanberg 5. Approval of November 22, 2021 Regular Meeting Minutes MOTION by Commissioner Stremel, seconded by Commissioner Seys to approve the minutes of November 22, 2021 as submitted and the motion carried. 6. Old Business A. Declaration of Climate Emergency i. It's now part of the City's 2022 Legislative priorities to ask State and Federal leaders for assistance with drafting climate action plans and to implement those plans. ii. The Council adopted the Climate Emergency Declaration for Golden Valley in December. iii. MN Climate Caucus has been meeting. This document is available in alternate formats upon a 72-hour request. Please call 763-593-8006 (TTY: 763-593-3968) to make a request. Examples of alternate formats may include large print, electronic, Braille, audiocassette, etc. 6 City of Golden Valley Environmental Commission Regular Meeting 2 January 24, 2022 — 6:30 pm iv. We joined with at least 15 other cities around the state to declare climate emergencies. The cities will adopt resolutions during a 2-week period in January and work with the MN Climate Caucus and the Great Plains Institute on the media push/press releases. v. Staff are ready to move forward. B. Organics Recycling Update i. The feedback has been mostly positive. ii. This has been staff's top priority this winter in order to ensure a successful roll -out. 1. Staff time has been used to: 1. Supply all City buildings with the triple carts with garbage/recycling/organics and bags. 2. Help with requests to stop cart delivery and with cart returns. 3. Phone calls, emails, office visits from residents. 4. Meetings with Republic Services. 5. Communications via website and social media. 6. Helping Finance Dept field calls. iii. Have been a few hiccups. Some missed pick-ups (1-1.5%). iv. Republic has been responsive to residents calling. v. Pick-ups have been happening later in the day due to weather (snow and cold temps), staffing, logistics. Could the City put information out there to the residents to explain why there are missed pick-ups and about leaving the cart out later (after 6:00 pm) on Friday? vi. Seeing almost 30% participation rate right away! There are cities that didn't see this for years. Hopefully we'll have a better idea in February. vii. Already 2.5 tons of material picked up. viii. 1,500 carts returned so far. 7,000 customers in GV. We do not have reports yet. We had a good process in place for stopping cart delivery and returning carts. 7. New Business A. 2022 Work Plan i. Item was tabled until the February meeting due to time restraints. B. GreenStep Cities i. Actions 13.1, 13.3, 13.4 — Solid Waste ii. Action 22.5 —Environmental Management Sustainable Consumption and Waste MOTION by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Yahle to approve the GreenStep Cities Metrics in 713i and 713ii, and the motion carried. C. Program/Project Updates i. None D. Council Updates i. None City of Golden Valley January 24, 2022 — 6:30 pm E. Other Business 8. Adjournment Environmental Commission Regular Meeting i. DEIC & EC Sub -Group 1. Scott and Debra met with Commissioner Mitchell to talk about the collaboration. 2. Still interest from both Commissions. 3. May 19 — Equity Forum is centered around Environmental Justice. 1. Talking more with Chris about the next steps for this for each Commission. 4. GV doing a resolution in support of Environmental Justice. 1. Sub -Group will do a rough draft of a resolution to bring back to each Commission. MOTION by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Hansen to adjourn the meeting at 8:50 pm and the motion carried. ATTEST: Carrie Nelson, Administrative Assistant Wendy Weirich, Chair try of�,� golden alley l`� y Date: February 25, 2022 MEMORANDUM Physical Development Department 763-593-8030 J 763-593-3988 (fax) To: Environmental Commission From: Drew Chirpich, Environmental Specialist Subject: Recycling and Organics Update In early 2021 Golden Valley issued an RFP for curbside recycling and organics recycling services. After evaluating proposals, the top -ranked proposer was selected and a contract was awarded to Republic Services in late October 2021. In the first week of January 2022, Golden Valley rolled out its new curbside Organics Recycling Program. Every resident in 1-4 plex housing received an organics recycling cart and the first service date was Friday January 71". After some obstacles including weather events, low temperatures, and logistical coordination in the first few weeks of service, adjustments were made to increase consistency and minimize future missed pick-ups. A little more than a month into the organics recycling program, early indications are that Golden Valley is at approximately 30% participation. This figure is calculated based off of 7,098 households eligible to participate in the program, and means that 30% of these households have set out their container at least once during the period from January 7t" to February 11th. This figure is considered very good for a new program (especially during winter months), and supports the City's choice of an all -in, everyone pays program, where every eligible household received a cart upon program commencement. For reference, most well -established organics recycling programs have around 40% participation. Golden Valley's participation rate is expected to continue to rise over time with additional promotion and education. In addition, Golden Valley has seen an increase in its "traditional" curbside recycling participation as well. Preliminary participation rates for the last few months indicate that curbside recycling participation is approximately 95% of eligible households, up from 92% in previous years. This increase is likely due to the additional messaging and education raising awareness surrounding the curbside organics recycling program and more people working from home during the pandemic. Similar increases in curbside recycling have been seen in other communities implementing new recycling programs. Staff has been compiling data regarding waste tonnages in 2021 prior to implementing the curbside organics recycling program and will report back on calculated tons of waste diverted due to curbside organics recycling in early 2023. try of goldeno-gleir valley Date: February 25, 2022 MEMORANDUM Physical Development Department 763-593-8030 / 763-593-3988 (fax) To: Environmental Commission From: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor Subject: Environmental Justice Collaboration The Environmental Commission's 2021 work plan includes working collaboratively with the new DEIC (formerly Human Rights Commission) to address the issues of environmental justice and climate justice in our community. Data show that people most impacted by a changing climate may contribute the least to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. More information about our existing disparities and climate vulnerabilities can be found at: The Minnesota Equity Blueprint Hennepin County Climate Action Plan City's Resilience and Sustainability Plan City's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion webpage The following maps and resources highlight the existing disparities and climate vulnerabilities and provide visual aid. https://metrotransitmn.shinvapps.io/growing-shade/ (a 2022 app developed by Met Council and partners showing the intersection of tree canopy with environmental justice, climate change, public health, and conservation) Hennepin County Climate Vulnerability Assessment Just Deeds Project Mapping Prejudice (U of MN layer showing racial covenants and deed restrictions by parcel) Emergency Expense Risk Index (This layer shows the risk that households within an area would not be able to afford a $400 emergency expense. This is EERI 2017 data shown by census block group.) Senior Well -Being (Percent of Population that is 65 Years and Over by census tract 2014-2018) Limited Ability to Speak English (2011-2015 data by census tract. Type zip code into search box) GAEnvironmental Commission\Memos Staff and members of the subcommittee will provide an update on the collaboration with the DEIC, including the following: • Environmental Justice forum Thursday, May 19 at 6pm, Brookview Golden Valley (316 Brookview Pkwy) o Forum planning meeting Feb 28 o Any ideas for the forum? What do we want to learn from the speaker, from participants? • Environmental Justice resolution • Mapping inequities in green amenities and prioritizing investment o How does the city map (attached) compare with available tools and apps? 9 m Z rL 7 m = � n1 �. G3 w try of goldeno-gleir valley Date: February 25, 2022 MEMORANDUM Physical Development Department 763-593-8030 / 763-593-3988 (fax) To: Environmental Commission From: Ethan Kehrberg, Minnesota GreenCorps Member Subject: Golden Valley Energy Recognition Program As part of the City's Energy Action Plan the Commission is looking at ways to incent and recognize businesses that take steps to save energy and money and help the community reduce carbon [ IMMI9ESI&I l What is it? This program a way to recognize businesses in Golden Valley that are taking steps to improve energy efficiency, reduce energy usage, increase renewable generation, or other practices that contribute to the City's goals outlined in the Energy Action Plan. How will it work? Businesses will apply to the program and the environmental staff, and possibly the Commission, will review and approve applications. Once accepted, businesses will receive a window cling with the program logo and be recognized as a program participant by having their business listed in the newsletter or on the website. We are starting with businesses and focusing on energy, but in the future the program could potentially expand to include residents or include other environmental initiatives like waste reduction, native vegetation and landscaping, chloride reduction and water quality, environmental education, or environmental justice. What is the application process? An application will be available online on the City's website or available to print and submit at City Hall. It will include questions about electricity and gas usage, energy assessments, and open-ended questions about actions taken by the business. (Application included at end of document) GAEnvironmental Commission\Memos Businesses will complete and submit the application to be reviewed by the environmental staff. Upon approval, businesses will be notified of their acceptance and receive promotional materials like a window cling or other marketing materials for them to advertise at their business or on their website. What is the name of this program? That's where we want your feedback! Ethan and the communications team came up with a list of names and narrowed it down to a few finalists. Once a name is chosen and ideas for branding are heard, communications will develop the logo and get ready to launch the new program. Potential names (in no particular order): • Energy Ally • LEAP (Leader for Energy Action Plan) • POWER (ex. Partner Organization With Energy Responsibility) • Energy Hero or Energy HERO (ex. Hardworking Energy Responsible Organization) • Energy Saver (can play with "G" and "V" in middle of the words for logo) • Otherideas? When will the program begin? Once a name is chosen and communications finishes the promotional materials, we are hoping to launch the program on or around May 4, 2022 since that is the 1-year anniversary of the Energy Action Plan. It is also shortly after Earth Day and Earth Month, so we can carry the environmental momentum out of those events to continue to make progress and increase awareness. Energy Recognition Program Application Date Business Name (required) Business Mailing Address Contact Person (required) Contact Email Contact Phone Number Number of Employees Business Type Business Building is... What is your annual electricity usage? kWh (owned/leased/other) What is your annual natural gas usage? therms What type of energy evaluation did you use? (Energy Smart, RETAP, Xcel, EnergVStar, LEED, etc.) What recommended actions from the energy evaluation have you implemented? In what other ways has your business demonstrated efforts to reduce energy usage, improve energy efficiency, increase renewable energy, or expand electric vehicle usage? Is there anything else you would like to share regarding your energy practices? city of go ldn� valley Date: February 25, 2022 MEMORANDUM Physical Development Department 763-593-8030 / 763-593-3988 (fax) To: Environmental Commission From: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor Subject: 2022 Work Plan As stated in its bylaws, the Commission is required to develop an annual work plan for review and approval by the City Council. The draft work plan for 2022 will be based upon the City's 2022 Pyramid of Success, 2040 Comprehensive Plan (including Resilience & Sustainability, Natural Resources, Water Resources, Transportation), Equity Plan, Energy Action Plan, Pollinator Protection Resolution, Climate Emergency Declaration, GreenStep Cities Program, and City Council's 2022 legislative priorities. Attached is the 2021 work plan to get the conversation started. We will quickly review the 2021 work plan and then dive into new ideas and actions for 2022-23. Commission members are asked to review the current work plan and documents above to better understand the city's goals and priorities, and come to the meeting prepared to discuss what they think is important for 2022-23. Following discussion at the February meeting, staff will compile information and bring a draft work plan forward to the Commission for consideration at its March meeting, ahead of Council consideration in April. GAEnvironmental Commission\Memos 2021 Work Plan • Curbside Recycling and Organics Collection Help develop and implement the new recycling and organics program scheduled for launch in January 2022. • Xcel Energy's Partners In Energy Program Help guide and participate in implementation of the City's Energy Action Plan, including: o reducing the number of households experiencing energy cost burden by 20 households through identifying, communicating, and connecting people with programs offered by utility companies and others o increasing participation in energy efficiency programs for residents and businesses o exploring options for promoting, supporting, and developing clean, renewable energy and electric vehicles and charging infrastructure o supporting state and local efforts to update building codes or standards that advance energy performance in 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 2021-2022, work to complete GreenStep Cities actions related to Climate and Energy Action. Community Outreach Use the Commission's $3,500 budget toward one or more of the following efforts: o host an educational workshop on planting for pollinators (approximately $1,400 for Metro Blooms Workshop) in May 2021 o explore and develop a partnership with local schools to deliver a student project, product, or service in the City o host an environmental art show/contest o sponsor a recognition program for native plantings or buckthorn removal o fund a joint project, event, or speaker/conversation with the Human Rights Commission • Climate Justice and Environmental Justice Continue to partner with the Human Rights Commission on a joint project, event, or speaker/conversation. Collaboration may include: o sponsoring one "green" infrastructure project in an area of the City with inequities of trees, green space, and natural amenities o enhancing one existing community or neighborhood event by planting trees, vegetation, or a garden in an area of the City with inequities of trees, green space, and natural amenities o hosting at least one speaker or community conversation on climate justice and environmental justice focusing on disparate impacts, adaptation, and resilience with respect to vulnerable populations, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color • Zero -Waste Community Help the City host a zero -waste community event in 2021, potentially at the Golden Valley Farmer's Market. • Natural Resources Management Plan Continue to assist in implementation of the plan, including: o supporting habitat restoration in the Briarwood Nature Area in 2021-22 with DNR Grant funds o exploring ways to promote, improve, expand, and preserve remnant natural areas and open spaces in the City • Downtown Redevelopment Study Continue to engage in environmental aspects of the study and plan. • Pollinators Complete actions listed in the City's Pollinator Protection resolution, such as: o developing more plots and habitat in the community, especially near underserved areas o increasing pollinator education and promotion of programs and grants (such as Lawns 2 Legumes) in cooperation with the Golden Valley Garden Club, using resources such as master gardeners and the University of Minnesota Bee Lab • Transportation: o support and contribute to the City's Bus Rapid Transit efforts along Hwy 55 o explore ways to reduce vehicle usage and expand transportation options in the City • Water Resources: o help update the City's Stormwater Management Program and improve the City's stormwater assessment score in GreenStep Cities (as part of the City's permit requirements with MPCA) o look at long-range needs for stormwater storage, and consider how to use those needs to improve recreation and conservation • Resources o explore and understand the resources available and needed to implement the City's environmental goals, initiatives, plans, programs, and projects. PROGRAM/PROJECT UPDATES — February 2022 GREENCORPS UPDATE Recently, the member has been focusing on energy. He helped update the website with better information about energy efficiency and renewable energy so residents and businesses can access the resources they need. He is currently planning an electric vehicle event for Golden Valley to host this summer, is completing the GreenStep Cities reporting for the City to renew their Step 5 status, and is setting up an energy assessment of City Hall. The member is also developing an "energy recognition program," which will be presented to the commission, as an incentive for businesses to help the city achieve its Energy Action Plan goals. On the side, the member continues his work on chloride reduction, organics recycling, and fleet electrification. He and the environmental staff are exploring ways to expand EV charging infrastructure in the city and promote the use of more EVs. In April, the member will be presenting with the City Attorney about environmental justice and restrictive covenants at an upcoming event for legal professionals. He is also working with the MN GreenCorps Recruitment Committee to find potential host sites and members for next year's program. PLANNING COMMISSION Screening and Outdoor Storage —Discussion of a pending Zoning Text Amendment to modify some aspects of the City's requirements around the screening of rooftop mechanical equipment, to provide additional clarity around the use of commercial parking lots for the storage of personal vehicles and equipment, and to strengthen regulations for outdoor storage lots. Scheduled for the February 14 Planning Commission meeting. Accessory Dwelling Units —Continued discussion as a new ADU ordinance is drafted for consideration. In November, the City Council voiced strong support for allowing ADUs and asked the Planning Commission to consider a wide range of possible options. Scheduled for the February 14 Planning Commission meeting. Mobile Uses —Discussion around the possible expansion of the types of mobile uses allowed in the city (currently limited to mobile food vending). Scheduled for the February 14 Planning Commission meeting. **TIME CHANGE** Beginning in March, the Planning Commission will meet at 6:30 instead of 7 pm. CITY COUNCIL The Artessa (Revised plans) —A five -story, 78-unit, senior cooperative building proposed for the southeast corner of the Golden Valley County Club (currently a portion of the driving range). This project requires an amendment to the Future Land Use Map (from Institutional to High Density Residential), an amendment to the Zoning Map (from Institutional to High Density Residential), and a Subdivision to carve out a new roughly two acre parcel. At the February 4 City Council meeting, the Council voted to approve the land use change (4- 1). The rezoning and subdivision were tabled until the Met Council can review and approve the new use designation. Lewis Road/Post Office Rezonings—One of the last changes to the City's Zoning Map to align with the 2040 Comprehensive Plan, the Light Industrial parcels along Lewis Road (west of Winnetka Ave) are currently guided for Neighborhood Mixed Use. Similarly, the post office is guided for Institutional — Civic use instead of Commercial use. On February 4, the City Council approved the rezonings (5-0).