2020-04-27 EC Agenda Packet
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 803 278 120. 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 February 24, 2020 Regular Meeting Minutes (5 min)
5. Old Business
A. Partners in Energy update (5 min)
B. 2019 Annual Report and 2020 Work Plan (10 min)
(Action requested)
C. Update on Solid Waste Licensing (5 min)
D. Curbside Organics Collection (40 min)
6. New Business
A. GreenStep Cities Step 4 & 5 - New Stormwater Assessment Tool (10 min)
(Action requested)
B. Program/Project Updates (10 min)
C. Council Updates (5 min)
D. Other Business (5 min)
7. Adjournment
April 27, 2020 – 6:30 pm
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
1. Call to Order
The meeting was called to order by Chair Seys at 6:30
2. Roll Call
Commissioners present: Tracy Anderson, Tonia Galonska, Dawn Hill, Susan Phelps,
Joseph Ramlet, Scott Seys, Jim Stremel and Debra Yahle
Commissioners absent: None
Council Members present: Larry Fonnest
Staff present: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor;
Drew Chirpich, Environmental Specialist;
Emma Pierson, MN GreenCorps Member;
3. Approval of Agenda
MOTION by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Golanska to approve the agenda of
February 24, 2020 and the motion carried.
4. Approval of January 27, 2020 Regular Meeting Minutes
MOTION by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Golanska to approve the minutes of
January 27, 2020 as submitted and the motion carried.
5. Old Business
A. Partners in Energy update
Eric Eckman gave an update on the Partners in Energy Program:
• The City was formally accepted into the Partners in Energy Program in February.
• Our planning team is being assembled internally and will be meeting with Xcel
Energy in early April for the kick-off.
• We’re also reviewing the Memorandum of Understanding we have for the plan
development phase, which will be about 8 months, and will be signed by the City
Manager.
• The Energy Action Team will be assembled with community members and staff for
the plan development phase. We will have an Energy Action Plan at the end of
this phase.
• The Implementation Phase will begin right after the Planning Phase and will be 18
months long.
February 24, 2020 – 6:30 pm
Council Conference Room
Golden Valley City Hall
7800 Golden Valley Road
City of Golden Valley Environmental Commission Regular Meeting
Feb 24, 2020 – 6:30 pm
2
B. Metro Blooms Workshop
Drew Chirpich gave an update on the Metro Blooms Workshop:
• In the past the EC has sponsored a workshop fostering sustainability practices.
• The next in the Metro Blooms series is Creating Your Resilient Yard Workshop.
o It is a base cost of $1,500.00 paid by the City and $15 per person paid by
the attendees. When attendees pay a fee it tends to be a better turnout
than if it’s free.
o We can try to incorporate Golden Valley specific items up front to the
workshop agenda but the workshop has a set curriculum with set speakers.
o Workshop talks about pollinators and creating habitats for pollinators.
o We will still have money left over in the Commissions budget to do other
things in the future, possibly holding a student essay competition with
prizes, or create an annual environmental citizen award.
• The workshop is just a one-time class and would be held in the spring.
• MOTION by Commissioner Stremel, seconded by Commissioner Golanska to
approve the Metro Blooms Workshop and the motion carried.
C. 2020 Work Plan
Eric Eckman gave an update on the Draft 2020 Work Plan:
• This list will be refined and brought back next month with the 2019
Accomplishments in the more comprehensive draft Annual Work Plan document.
This will be approved by the Commission in April and will be presented to the
Council in May by Chair Seys.
• Based on feedback and discussion at the meeting, the revised draft work plan
follows:
Draft 2020 Work Plan:
Proposed work plan priorities are based on the City’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan,
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 make a
recommendation; assist in developing and implementing a new program.
• Xcel Energy’s Partners In Energy Program - help develop and implement the City’s
Energy Action Plan including:
o Advance building performance
o Private building energy benchmarking
• GreenStep Cities Step 5 - continue working on actions and metrics to address
climate-related impacts, improve the environment, and reduce energy consumption
and costs.
City of Golden Valley Environmental Commission Regular Meeting
Feb 24, 2020 – 6:30 pm
3
o If awarded a MN GreenCorps Member in 2020-2021, work to complete
GreenStep Cities actions related to Climate and Energy Action.
• Utilize 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:
o Speaker on climate justice and environmental justice focusing on climate
adaptation and resilience, or promoting community gardens and local food
production.
o Project in an area of the City with inequities of green space - pair a community
event with planting trees in that area.
• Assist the City in hosting a zero-waste community event in 2020.
• Natural Resources Management Plan - continue to assist in implementation.
o Explore the potential to revise City code to allow the temporary use of goats for
vegetation management on public and private properties.
o Provide update on Emerald Ash Borer Management.
o Support habitat restoration in the Pennsylvania Woods Nature Area in 2020-
21 with DNR Grant funds.
• Downtown Redevelopment Study – engage in environmental aspects of study and plan
• Pollinators - complete actions listed in the City’s Pollinator Protection resolution
o Inventory and reduce the use of chemicals on City properties
o Develop more plots and habitat
• Review City code with respect to wood burning and update as needed to protect and
maintain local air quality.
• Reducing single use plastics and containers
The Commission also considered Development of a Climate Action Plan (separate from
GreenStep Cities and PIE Energy Action Plan) but removed the item due to the increased
level of effort and involvement with the Energy Action Plan in 2020. The Commission plans
to discuss this item again in 2021.
D. Curbside Organics Collection Options - Pros-Cons
Emma Pierson gave an update on the Curbside Organics Collection Options:
• Organized “All-In, Everyone Pays” Program (cart)
o How is it billed? It depends on the contract but most cities bill through the
city, similar to what Golden Valley does with the recycling program now.
o Option to subsidize fee to residents with SCORE funds or general funds.
City of Golden Valley Environmental Commission Regular Meeting
Feb 24, 2020 – 6:30 pm
4
o Question about St. Louis Park having 3 staff members – Staff does not
believe that the fees paid by residents fully covers their salaries.
• Organized “Opt-In” Program (cart)
o The portion of cost the City covers could come from SCORE Funding.
o No cities at this moment cover any costs of the All-In, Everyone Pays
Option but it could be explored.
o Edina added $0.50 onto the base fee to help pay for a full-time position to
administer their program. Staff has not estimated the time, cost, or
additional fee to do the same in Golden Valley.
o Add a note to the ‘Cons’ that part of the added City cost could be covered
by an added fee to residents.
o Fridley sends requests directly to the hauler and the hauler sets them up
and does the billing so it doesn’t require as much city staff time. Golden
Valley could do it this way depending on how a contract is written.
o Compared to Golden Valley, Robbinsdale is smaller in number of residents
and geographically. Fridley is slightly larger in population but similar
geographically.
• License Requirement (Cart)
o The cost appears to be dependent on density and participation.
o Since Golden Valley is more spread out we would likely have a higher cost
per household.
• License Requirement (Durable Bag Program, Co-Collected with Trash)
o Only Randy’s is currently licensed in Golden Valley for this option.
o No cities currently have this as a license requirement. Some smaller, more
compact communities who already have organized trash hauling, like
Wayzata and Osseo, have this as an option. All residents are charged for
the service, but they must opt-in to receive the bags. In other communities,
residents must opt-in to pay and receive bags.
6. New Business
A. Organics Recycling – Summary of Hauler Engagement
Emma provided a summary of the meetings with haulers
i. All haulers would be interested in offering an organics recycling program. They
reported City contracts are more efficient and cost effective.
ii. Most haulers already provide a service in other communities.
iii. All haulers stated the pricing would vary depending on the hauler and community.
Cost factors include density, participation, and location.
iv. Increased density or more participation would help lower the cost to residents.
v. All haulers do have the capacity to offer curbside organics.
vi. Many will use separate carts for both license requirement or contract to reduce
the risk of contamination.
City of Golden Valley Environmental Commission Regular Meeting
Feb 24, 2020 – 6:30 pm
5
vii. Haulers that do a co-collect with trash (durable bag program) would provide a cart
for those who do not have trash service with them.
viii. Making compost available to residents or a coupon system – Some haulers already
have an established coupon system for 1 free bag of compost but all other haulers
reported having the ability to back haul compost to the City. This would require a
separate contract with the composting vendor.
1. Extra costs to have it hauled back to the city?
2. Logistics for setting this up? Drop it at a park and people come pick it up.
ix. Can haulers provide services with compressed natural gas (CNG) or lower emission
vehicles? Many said they already operate with CNG trucks. All diesel trucks that
need to be replaced are replaced with CNG trucks.
x. Any issues haulers see for their business with implementing curbside organics?
Some said an issue could arise with an open hauling trash system. Other concerns
included disposal site capacity and days allowed in the city for pick up.
xi. All haulers are able to comply with Hennepin County educational requirements.
xii. All haulers will work with the City, County, and disposal sites to develop materials
specific to the City of Golden Valley for specific contamination issues specific to
Golden Valley. All haulers have a local/regional service hub to handle increased
customer service calls.
Eckman provided an update on next steps.
1. Next we’ll engage with residents.
2. Another article will go out in the March/April edition of the CityNews.
3. There is a new City Organics webpage that will have a citizen survey linked
on the page.
4. We’re also having an Open House on April 9 at Brookview, 5:00-7:30 with
City and County staff members. The survey will be available there as well.
The Commission was asked to think about any questions they may have for the
March meeting. They need to be prepared to make a recommendation in March or
April and bring it to Council in May along with other information presented by
staff.
B. Program/Project Updates
i. On file.
C. Council Updates
i. A meeting is set up with 3 of the County Commissioners to talk about energy and
resilience in the western suburbs. Council member Fonnest wondered if the
commission members and staff could put this on their calendar to represent
Golden Valley. Meeting is Wednesday, March 18 from 9:00-11:00 at the Hennepin
County Government Center. Agenda items include sharing energy priorities
between the suburbs and the County, County initiatives on climate mitigation and
City of Golden Valley Environmental Commission Regular Meeting
Feb 24, 2020 – 6:30 pm
6
resilience, and talk about possible partnerships on initiatives for lower carbon
emissions from buildings, energy supply, transportation, and land use.
D. Other Business
i. None
7. Adjournment
MOTION by Commissioner Yahle, seconded by Commissioner Anderson, to adjourn the meeting
at 8:30pm and the motion carried.
G:\Environmental Commission\Memos\Monarch Pledge & Bee City
Date: April 23, 2020
To: Environmental Commission
From: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor
Subject: Xcel Energy’s Partners In Energy community collaboration program
The City was formally accepted into the Partners In Energy program in February. The project
kickoff meeting took place in April. Staff will provide a brief update on the schedule and next
steps in the energy action plan.
G:\Environmental Commission\Memos
Date: April 23, 2020
To: Environmental Commission
From: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor
Subject: 2020 Draft Work Plan
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 2020 is based on the City’s 2040 Comprehensive
Plan, GreenStep Cities Program, the City’s legislative priorities, and the City’s participation in Xcel
Energy’s Partners in Energy community collaboration program.
http://www.goldenvalleymn.gov/planning/comprehensiveplanupdate/
https://greenstep.pca.state.mn.us/best-practices
https://www.xcelenergy.com/working_with_us/municipalities/partners_in_energy
Below is a schedule for development of the work plan.
January Reviewed 2019 work plan and brought forth new ideas for 2020
February Reviewed and prioritized 2020 draft work plan
March Meeting cancelled
April Review Draft 2019 Annual Report and 2020 Work Plan document
(Commission must approve work plan for Council consideration)
May Chair Seys presents work plan to Council at its May 12 Council/Manager
meeting
After discussion staff requests the Commission to consider making a motion to approve the City’s
Draft 2019 Annual Report and 2020 Work Plan and forward it to the City Council for
consideration.
[need updated photos]
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
DRAFT 2019 ANNUAL REPORT AND
2020 WORK PLAN
Golden Valley Environmental Commission
2019 Annual Report
2
2019 Environmental Commission
Commissioners
Scott Seys, Chair (2021)
Debra Yahle, Vice-Chair (2022)
Tracy Anderson (2020)
Tonia Galonska (2022)
Dawn Hill (2021)
Susan Phelps (2020)
Jim Stremel (2020)
Joseph Ramlet, Student (2020)
Note: Terms run May 1-April 30
Council Liaison
Larry Fonnest
City Staff
Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor
Purpose and Mission
The Environmental Commission has been established to advise and make recommendations to the
City Council in matters relating to and affecting the environment.
Golden Valley Environmental Commission
2019 Annual Report
3
Table of Contents
2019 Accomplishments page 4
2020 Proposed Work Plan page 6
Golden Valley Environmental Commission
2019 Annual Report
4
2019 Accomplishments
GreenStep Cities
• Completed Step 4 of the GreenStep Cities Program,
including metrics and measures in the following
topic areas:
o buildings and lighting
o renewable energy
o land use
o transportation and fleet
o surface water
o green buildings
A link to the summary of the Golden Valley’s
GreenStep Cities progress is located at
https://greenstep.pca.state.mn.us/
cityInfo.cfm?ctu_code=2394924
Energy Use
• Researched and recommended participation in Xcel
Energy’s Partners In Energy community collaboration program.
Pollinators
• Approved and recommended to Council the adoption of a resolution endorsing pollinator
protection and promoting pollinator habitat.
• Created a prioritization matrix of potential pollinator plots and habitat sites to develop in the
community in the next several years.
Solid Waste And Recycling
• Provided input and feedback on the city’s solid waste hauling discussion.
• Worked with MN GreenCorps Member to complete GreenStep Cities actions related to waste
reduction, recycling, and composting/organics management.
Natural Resources Management
• Hosted an educational workshop on sustainable yards and soils.
Council Member Gillian Rosenquist accepted Golden
Valley’s GreenStep Cities Step 4 designation in June.
(Photo by GreenStep Cities)
Golden Valley Environmental Commission
2019 Annual Report
5
• Supported the Bassett Creek Nature Area Habitat Restoration Project made possible by a grant
from the MnDNR.
• Provided guidance and received updates on the City’s work to resolve encroachments in the
Bassett Creek Nature Area.
Sustainability And Resilience
• Researched and made recommendations on zoning code revisions to remove barriers to local
food production.
• Continued support of the City’s flood reduction and mitigation efforts through its projects,
programs, and participation in the FEMA Community Rating System which provides discounts
on flood insurance in exchange for the City’s high level of floodplain management actions. The
City moved up from Class 7 to Class 6 in 2019.
Golden Valley Environmental Commission
2019 Annual Report
6
2020 Proposed 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 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 City’s 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.
• Utilize 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:
o Speaker on climate justice and environmental justice focusing on climate adaptation and
resilience, or promoting community gardens and local food production.
o Project in an area of the City with inequities of green space and amenities - pair a
community event with planting trees and vegetation in that area.
• Assist the City in hosting a zero-waste community event in 2020.
• Natural Resources Management Plan - continue to assist in implementation.
o Explore the potential to revise City code to allow the temporary use of goats for
vegetation management on public and private properties.
o Provide update on Emerald Ash Borer Management.
o Support habitat restoration in the Pennsylvania Woods Nature Area in 2020-21 with
DNR Grant funds.
• Downtown Redevelopment Study – engage in environmental aspects of study and plan
• Pollinators - complete actions listed in the City’s Pollinator Protection resolution
o Inventory and reduce the use of chemicals on City properties
o Develop more plots and habitat in the community
• Review City code with respect to wood burning and update as needed to protect and maintain
local air quality.
• Reducing single use plastics and containers.
G:\Environmental Commission\Memos
Date: April 23, 2020
To: Environmental Commission
From: Drew Chirpich, Environmental Specialist
Subject: Waste Hauler Licensing Update
The City adopted new Waste Hauler Licensing requirements in November 2019. Staff will provide
a brief update on the licenses issued in 2020 following this code change.
G:\Environmental Commission\Memos
Date: April 23, 2020
To: Environmental Commission
From: Emma Pierson, GreenCorps Member
Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor
Subject: Organics Recycling Collection
Staff will provide a summary of the Commission’s work on organics recycling to date, as well as
new information on the Organics Community Survey and Virtual Open House, both of which are
accessible on the City’s organics recycling webpage at
https://www.goldenvalleymn.gov/recycling/curbside/organics.php.
The March Commission meeting was cancelled due to COVID-19 policies. To help us pick up
where the Commission left off with its study of organics recycling options, staff is attaching the
Pro-Con Matrix which was updated and approved by the Commission at its February 2020
meeting. The February meeting minutes are also a helpful resource and are included in the April
agenda packet.
Commission members should come to the meeting prepared to discuss their thoughts about
organics recycling options, which option might be preferred and why. Members should also come
with a list of any remaining questions they might have that need to be answered before the
study, and possibly a recommendation, is forwarded to City Council for consideration. Following
is a schedule of next steps:
• April 2020 Commission reviews information to date, discusses options
and preferences.
• May 2020 Commission concludes its study of organics recycling options. Forwards
information to City Council.
• June 2020 Staff presents information from Environmental Commission, citizen survey,
virtual open house, and stakeholder meetings to City Council.
• Summer 2020 City Council provides direction to staff.
Organized 'All-in, Everyone Pays' Program (Cart)
Pro Commission Priority Guiding Documents Con Commission Priority Guiding Documents
Increases
Participation i.e.
SLP High
HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 15) - Larger participation with citywide contract
MSWPP 2016-2036 (pg 32)- Organized collection results in higher participation
Additional bin on
property High HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 6)- Address barriers to cart storage
Lower cost w/
City wide
contract High
Additional city
staff, cost of city
staff (could be
supplemented by
program fees) Medium
Option for bin
tagging
w/education High HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 15)- Comprehensive outreach plan
Resident must pay
regardless of
participation HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 15) - Larger participation with citywide contract
City can manage
education w/
help from
Hennepin County High HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 15)- Comprehensive outreach plan
Resident must
provide bags
Can reduce trash
bin size and save
money as waste
is diverted from
trash High
MSWPP 2016-2036 (Pg 32)- Cases show households can offset organics collection costs
by reducing trash bin sizes
Higher density
collection routes Low MSWPP 2016-2036 (Pg30)- Higher density routes needed for affordable service
Everyone pays
same fee
HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 15) - Larger participation with citywide availability MSWPP
2016-2036 (pg 32)- Organized collection results in higher participation
Resident can use
certified
compostable
bags or paper
grocery bags
Consistent color
bins throughout
city
No negotiation
required for
residents
Cities that do this:
St Louis Park, Minneapolis, Edina (May), Richfield (RFP in 2019)
Cost ranges:
$2.96- $5.50/month per household
Organized 'Opt-in' Program (Cart)
Pro
Commission
Priority Guiding Documents Con
Commission
Priority Guiding Documents
Optional - no
payment if
choosing not to
participate High
MSWPP 2016-2036 (Pg32)- Communities with subscribe and pay
systems have lower participation
HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 15) - Larger participation with citywide
contract
Less participation
possible High
MSWPP 2016-2036 (Pg32)- Communities with subscribe and pay
systems have lower participation
HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 15) - Larger participation with citywide
contract
Option for bin
tagging
w/education High HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 15)- Comprehensive outreach plan
Additional bin to
property High HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 6)- Address barriers to cart storage
Can reduce trash
bin size and save
money as waste
is diverted from
trash High
MSWPP 2016-2036 (Pg 32)- Cases show households can offset
organics collection costs by reducing trash bin sizes
Higher cost
possible w/ lower
participation High
Resident can use
certified
compostable
bags or paper
grocery bags
Resident must
provide bags
Additional city
staff, cost of city
staff (could be
supplemented by
program fees)
Cities that do this:
Robbinsdale, Fridley
Cost ranges:
$6-$11/month per household (In Fridley, the City funds a portion of the cost)
License Requirement (Cart)
Pro Commission Priority Guiding Documents Con Commission Priority Guiding Documents
Optional - no
payment if choosing
not to participate High
MSWPP 2016-2036 (Pg32)- Communities with subscribe and pay
systems have lower participation
HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 15) - Larger participation with citywide
contract
Less participation
possible High
MSWPP 2016-2036 (Pg32)- Communities with subscribe and pay
systems have lower participation
HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 15) - Larger participation with citywide
contract
Option for bin
tagging w/
education High HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 15)- Comprehensive outreach plan
No regulation or
consistency of
costs between
haulers High
Hauler is
responsible for
education High HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 15)- Comprehensive outreach plan
Additional bin to
property High HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 6)- Address barriers to cart storage
Can reduce trash bin
size and save money
as waste is diverted
from trash High
MSWPP 2016-2036 (Pg 32)- Cases show households can offset
organics collection costs by reducing trash bin sizes
Unknown amount
of added trucks to
each street High
Less city staff time
than organized
system Medium
City has less input
on education
provided High HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 15)- Comprehensive outreach plan
Resident can use
certified
compostable bags or
paper grocery bags
Cities that do this:
N/A
Cost ranges:
Haulers estimated about $15-20/month per household
License Requirement (Durable Bag Program, Co-collect)
Pro
Commission
Priority Guiding Documents Con
Commission
Priority Guiding Documents
No additional
bin on property High HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 6)- Address barriers to cart storage
Less participation
possible High
MSWPP 2016-2036 (Pg32)- Communities with subscribe and pay
systems have lower participation
HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 15) - Larger participation with citywide
contract
Optional - no
payment if
choosing not to
participate High
MSWPP 2016-2036 (Pg32)- Communities with subscribe and pay
systems have lower participation
HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 15) - Larger participation with citywide
contract
Bin is not organics
specific, limited/no
opportunity for bin
tagging/education High HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 15)- Comprehensive outreach plan
Hauler is
responsible for
education High HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 15)- Comprehensive outreach plan
Takes up room in
trash bin; would not
decrease trash bin
size High
MSWPP 2016-2036 (Pg 32)- Cases show households can offset
organics collection costs by reducing trash bin sizes
No additional
trucks on streets High
City has less input on
education provided High HC SWMMP 2018- 2023 (Pg 15)- Comprehensive outreach plan
Less city staff
time than
organized
system Medium Restricted bag size
Durable bags
included in
program fee
(limited amount)
Mandated
unorganized durable
bag hauling could
provide capacity
overload for facilities
that accept and sort
bags
Cities that do this:
No cities have this program as a license requirement
Cost ranges:
$5.83/month ($69.95/year) per household
G:\Environmental Commission\Memos
Date: April 23, 2020
To: Environmental Commission
From: Drew Chirpich
Subject: GreenStep Cities- Stormwater Assessment Tool Update
As part of its participation in the GreenStep Cities program and at the request of the MPCA, staff
has filled out the new Stormwater Assessment Tool to help evaluate how the City manages its
Stormwater and natural resources. Staff will provide a summary of the new Stormwater
Assessment which is required for continued recognition as a Step 4 City and for future
advancement to Step 5.
After discussion staff requests the Commission to consider making a motion to approve the City’s
Stormwater Assessment.
Municipal Stormwater
Management Assessment
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for your interest in answering 45 questions that assess the degree to which your city is taking both simple and
innovative actions to improve stormwater management, improve water quality, and adapt to climate changes in Minnesota.
Questions in this Snap Surveys tool cover broad green infrastructure areas that are generally not covered by government
regulatory programs. After completing this questionnaire, a score between 1 and 100 percent will be reported. A second
score, based on your answers to 23 questions related to resilience to climate change, will also be reported.
Taking this assessment and receiving a score can be used in several ways:
(1) To quickly learn about a wide range of stormwater management options, via the questions and associated
informational links to the MPCA’s Stormwater Manual site
(2) To see Minnesota Cities' collective stormwater management efforts
(3) To gather a baseline measure of actions, and to compare that to a subsequent year (which could be 2 or 3 years
later) when you retake the assessment
(4) To report your score, and subsequent improvement, to community members and to your city council
(5) To claim credit for the GreenStep best practice # 17, under BP action 17.2
(6) To claim credit for GreenStep Metric # 9, which is required for recognition at Step 4 and Step 5 in the GreenStep
Cities program. Metric # 9 has two data elements, which are calculated for you after you complete this Assessment: the
Stormwater Assessment Score based on all 45 questions, and the Climate Adaptation Stormwater Score, based
on 23 questions.
INSTRUCTIONS
For your convenience, you may find the PDF version of this questionnaire here.
NOTE: As you progress through the assessment, the questionnaire saves your progress automatically as long as you
stay in the same session. If you wish to end your session and return to the questionnaire at a later time, you must
click the SAVE button before closing the browser window. Doing so will generate a unique link, which you can then
use to continue the assessment at a later time or share it with others in your city who may better answer certain
questions.
Do not lose this unique link as GreenStep Cities staff cannot retrieve it for you, and you will lose your
progress!
In order to accurately score your assessment, the questionnaire requires you to answer all questions, and as such, you
may select “I don’t know/not specified” for most questions. Please note that selecting this option will assign a score of 0,
but you may return to earlier questions and amend their answers as needed.
Upon completion of the assessment, you will receive your scores and be asked to submit these results under one or both
of the GreenStep best practice action 17.2 and the GreenStep Step 4/5 metrics 9.1 and 9.2. Anonymous responses from
all cities may be shared with MPCA staff, but NOT associated with your city name, in order for staff to provide better
stormwater assistance to cities. Your honesty in answering these questions is important, and your privacy will be
respected. The goal of this assessment is city self-directed improvement complementary to improvements pursued under
city programs and under various government regulatory programs.
The assessment will be active until May 1, 2020, and a new web link will be sent out to all GreenStep cities, and to other
interested cities, on July 1, 2020 for the next assessment year, which ends on May 1, 2021.
Should you have any questions or comments about this assessment or individual questions in it, feel free to use the
GreenStep Cities contact page. The GreenStep Cities and MPCA program staff value your feedback and will use it to
improve the assessment questions (and points per question) each year.
SECTION ONE - Planning & Preservation
Water Friendly Development Patterns
Q1 Does your community comprehensive plan allow sprawl-limiting strategies?
(variable) Yes
(0 points) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
Q1a Please select all that apply:
(1 point) Mixed-use development by right
(1 pt) Compact development outside of the downtown zoning district (greater than 3 residential units/acre)
(1 pt) Transfer of development rights
(1 pt) Other applicable
Q2 Does your community have any incentives specifically targeted to 'brownfield' development and redevelopment sites?
(variable) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
Q2a Please select all that apply:
(1 pt) Density bonus
(1 pt) Funding for remediation
(1 pt) Streamlined permitting
(1 pt) Reduced impact fees
(1 pt) Tax increment financing
Q3 In your stormwater ordinance, is there a definition of green infrastructure or low-impact development (LID) -- better
management of stormwater while aiming to achieve other environmental, public health, social, and economic benefits?
(Select one)
(1 pt) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
Q4 Does your community have a climate adaptation plan in place to address potential impacts of climate change on
community water resource management?
(Select one)
(1 pt) Yes, we have our own plan
(1 pt) Yes, we follow a regional plan for another agency
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
Natural Resource Preservation & Management
Q5 Does your community comprehensive plan include an inventory of high quality natural resource areas and are land-use
decisions guided by the natural resource inventory in order to protect these areas from development?
(Select one)
(4 pts) Yes, a Natural Resource Inventory or Natural Resource Assessment is incorporated into the subdivision or development process
(1 pt) Yes, inventoried
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
Q6 Does your community allow filling for development within the floodplain and if so, are restrictions imposed that include
excluding storage of hazardous materials and requiring compensatory flood storage to offset fill?
(Select one)
(3 pts) No fill within FEMA and locally defined floodplain allowed
(2 pts) No fill within FEMA floodplain allowed
(1 pt) Fill allowed with the above restrictions
(-1 pt) Fill allowed without restrictions
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
(N/A) Not applicable in my community
Q7 Does your community protect high quality or sensitive wetlands through a resource management plan or wetland
management plan?
(Select one)
(2 pts) Yes, plan exceeds state Wetland Conservation Act standards
(1 pt) Yes, plan meets state standards
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
(N/A) Not applicable in my community
Q8 Do your buffer standards for lakes, streams, constructed ponds, and wetlands include any floodplain, steep slope,
vegetation or resource quality considerations?
(variable) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
(N/A) Not applicable in my community
Q8a Please select all the buffer standards that apply:
(1 pt) Additional buffer width to encompass 100-year floodplain
(1 pt) Additional buffer width in areas with slopes 9% or greater
(1 pt) Buffer language clearly specifies vegetated cover requirements
(1 pt) Expanded stream buffer requirements for sensitive resources, such as high-quality wetlands, trout streams and/or Outstanding
Resource Water Bodies (ORVWs)
Q9 Does your community have land use protections and/or development restrictions that preserve slopes 18% or greater in a
stable, undisturbed vegetated state?
(Select one)
(2 pts) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
(N/A) Not applicable in my community
Q10 Does your community encourage the establishment and sustainability of urban forests through the following strategies?
(Select all that apply)
Insect & disease control, including ash preservation
Increased care during tree establishment
Increased indigenous diversity of tree species
Tree protection and replacement ordinance
Street reconstruction (including road diet lane conversions) that increases width of boulevard tree right-of-way
Standards that address soil compaction during and after development/redevelopment of private land, and of public land like street boulevards
Stable funding for shade tree program, goals for increasing canopy coverage, or Tree City USA
The urban forest strategies above score as follows:
- (8 pts) At least 5 of the above strategies including soil compaction standards
- (5 pts) At least 4 of the above strategies including tree program/goals/Tree City
- (3 pts) At least 4 of the above strategies
- (2 pts) At least 3 of the above strategies
- (1 pt) At least 2 of the above strategies
- (0 pts) One or none of the above strategies
Stormwater Management Funding & Incentives
Q11 Does your community have any of the following stable, ongoing, yearly stormwater management funding mechanisms?
(Select one)
(3 pts) Stormwater Utility User Fee
(3 pts) Other
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
Q12 Does your community provide incentives (e.g. a reduced stormwater utility fee for sites that reduce their impervious
surface) for retrofitting stormwater best management practices in previously developed sites?
(Select one)
(3 pts) Yes for commercial, industrial, institutional and residential
(2 pts) Yes for only commercial, institutional and industrial
(1 pt) Yes for only residential
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
Q13 Has your community adopted a stable funding mechanism for land acquisition of high quality natural resource and/or
riparian buffer areas?
(Select one)
(5 pts) Yes, land is placed in a trust
(1 pt) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
SECTION TWO - Stormwater Management Standards, Policies & Practices
Impervious Cover Management
Q14 For public, residential access and sub-collector streets (with fewer than 500 average daily trips) what is the minimum
roadway pavement width allowed in your community?
(Select one)
(4 pts) 24 feet or less
(2 pts) 25-26 feet
(1 pts) 27-28 feet
(-1 pt) Greater than 28 feet
(0 pts) I don’t know / not specified
Q15 Does your community allow proof-of-parking or shared driveways to minimize impervious surface?
(Select one)
(1 pt) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
Q16 Does your community have any of the following off-street parking lot/ramp regulations (for example, number of required
parking spaces per 1000 sq. ft. or per seat) in its zoning/development code?
(Select one)
(8 pts) Parking space maximums exist and there are no parking space minimums city-wide
(6 pts) Parking space maximums exist city-wide and there are no parking space minimums in select zoning districts/for select development
types
(4 pts) Parking space maximums and parking space minimums exist in select zoning districts/for select development types
(2 pts) City has parking space minimums city-wide, or in select zoning districts/for select development types, AND gives a parking stall
reduction credit for installed bicycle parking
(1 pt) City only has parking space minimums city-wide, or in select zoning districts/for select development types
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
Q17 What are your standard parking space dimensions?
(Select one)
(3 pts) Stalls 8.5' x 18' with 22' maximum aisle and driveway widths
(2 pts) Stall width 9 feet or less
(1 pt) Stall width 9.1 to 9.9 feet
(0 pts) Stall width greater than 9.9 feet or dimensions not regulated
(0 pts) I don’t know / not specified
Q18 Does your community encourage curb-cuts, ribbon curb, roundabouts, or right of way swales for infiltration and
conveyance of stormwater runoff in lieu of curb-and-gutter along residential roadways?
(Select one)
(5 pts) Yes, allowed and encouraged
(2 pts) Yes, allowed
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don’t know / not specified
Q19 For new residential lots, does your community require or encourage impervious surfaces like roofs and driveways to drain
to vegetated areas?
(Select one)
(3 pts) Required
(1 pt) Encouraged
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don’t know / not specified
Q20 Does your community require or encourage parking area landscaping with vegetated practices (e.g. bioretention, curb-
cuts, ribbon curb, tree trenches, or swales) for stormwater volume and/or water quality management?
(Select one)
(3 pts) Required
(1 pt) Encouraged
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don’t know / not specified
Q21 Does your community allow & encourage pervious/permeable surfaces on residential/commercial area sidewalks and
parking lots?
(variable) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
Q21a Please select all that apply:
(1 pt) Yes on residential/commercial sidewalks
(1 pt) Yes on residential/commercial parking lots
Q22 How does your community address native vegetation and turf alternatives on residential and commercial sites?
(Select one)
(3 pts) We incentivize native plantings, including turf replacement
(2 pts) We promote native plantings, including turf replacement
(1 pts) We allow native plantings, including turf replacement
(0 pts) Not addressed
(0 pts) I don’t know / not specified
Q23 Does your community encourage green roof installations as part of its building permit process?
(Select one)
(3 pts) Yes, green roofs (with or without a cistern) are incentivized by financial and/or regulatory measures
(2 pts) Yes, green roofs are encouraged and allowed by-right if they meet certain engineering standards
(1 pt) Yes, green roofs are allowed and information about green roofs is made available to developers
(0 pts) No mention/encouragement of green roofs
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
Stormwater Management Policies
Q24 For new development, does the permitting agency apply community stormwater management standards to all new
impervious surfaces, or is a minimum threshold (de minimis) included?
(Select one)
(10 pts) Standards apply to all new impervious surfaces
(8 pts) Standards apply to 10,000 sq. ft. or more of new impervious surface
(4 pts) Standards apply to .5 acres or more of new impervious surface
(1 pt) Standards apply to 1 acre or more of new impervious surface
(1 pt) Standards apply to any net increase of impervious surface in a development project
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don’t know / not specified
Q25 For new development, does the permitting authority apply community stormwater standards requiring rate control based
on the difference between a baseline-condition and post-development runoff condition?
(Select one)
(5 pts) Yes, our baseline condition is Pre-European settlement
(3 pts) Yes, our baseline condition approximates woods/prairie grass in good condition
(2 pts) Yes, our baseline is pre-development (existing) conditions and it is consistent with MIDS
(1 pt) Yes, our baseline is pre-development (existing) conditions
(1 pt) Yes, our baseline is consistent with MIDS
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don’t know / not specified
Q26 Does your community require best management practices (BMPs) for all new development that will result in at least 90%
reduction in total-suspended-solids (TSS) and/or at least 60% reduction in total phosphorous (TP)?
(Select one)
(3 pts) Yes, my community follows MIDS or a more stringent/protective standard
(2 pts) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don’t know / not specified
Q27 Are post-construction sediment and nutrient loading requirements customized to downstream water resources, such as
critical habitat, impaired waters, Outstanding Resource Water Bodies (ORVWs)?
(Select one)
(3 pts) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don’t know / not specified
Q28 Are there post-construction runoff volume requirements for downstream river erosion protection?
(Select one)
(6 pts) Yes, no runoff volume increase for the 10-yr, 24-hr event
(4 pts) Yes, no runoff volume increase for the 5-yr, 24-hr event
(2 pts) Yes, no runoff volume increase for the 2-yr, 24-hr event
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don’t know / not specified
(N/A) Not applicable in my community
Q29 [For non-MS4s only] Has your community adopted an erosion and sediment control ordinance that align with MS4 permit
requirements?
(Select one)
(10 pts) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don’t know / not specified
(N/A) MS4 - not applicable in my community
Q30 Do your community stormwater management standards specify pretreatment sizing standards for stormwater prior to
discharge into all permanent structural best management practices (BMPs)?
(Select one)
(2 pts) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
Q31 Do your community stormwater management standards apply to all redevelopment, which includes reconstruction of linear
projects?
(Select one)
(9 pts) Yes, we apply MIDS or a more stringent/protective standard to all redevelopment
(7 pts) Yes, standards apply to all redevelopment
(4 pts) Yes, standards apply only to redevelopment projects with a net increase in impervious surface
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don’t know / not specified
Q32 Does your community encourage or require water conservation strategies?
(variable) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
Q32a Please select all water conservation strategies that apply:
(5 pts) Stormwater water reuse incentives
(3 pts) Stormwater water reuse standards
(2 pts) Encourage or require irrigation systems to be retrofitted with Smart irrigation systems that track weather patterns and mitigate
unnecessary watering
(1 pt) Use of low-water vegetation
(1 pt) Water Conservation Rate Structure that exceeds DNR minimum requirements
(1 pt) Other water conservation strategies
Please describe:
sanitary sewer inflow and infiltration ordinance to prevent clear water from entering sewers
Q33 Does your community require & enforce maintenance agreements for privately maintained stormwater facilities?
(Select one)
(3 pts) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
SECTION THREE - Stormwater Pollution Prevention
Education & Community Programs
Q34 Does your community participate in stormwater pollution prevention education & outreach programs?
(variable) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
Q34a Please select all programs that apply:
(1 pt) Metro Blooms educational workshops or Blue Thumb program participation (within last 3 years)
(1 pt) The NEMO Program (within last 3 years)
(1 pt) The Clean Water Minnesota Media Campaign (annually)
(1 pt) Other similar programs
Please describe:
storm sewer stenciling, adopt-a-pond, newsletter articles, and webpage stories
Q35 Does your community have residential and business education efforts?
(variable) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
Q35a Please select all that apply:
(2 pts) Educational stormwater pollution prevention workshops for residents
(2 pts) Education and outreach program for local businesses
(2 pts) A storm drain stenciling program
(2 pts) Sponsorship of community education events and/or clean ups
(2 pts) Adopt-a-Storm Drain program
(2 pts) Stormwater BMP demonstration sites with educational signage
(1 pt) Regular utility bill inserts with stormwater educational messages
(1 pt) A city newsletter or social media effort that regularly includes a variety of stormwater pollution prevention messages at least 4- 6 times
each year
(1 pt) A city website with that regularly includes a variety of stormwater pollution prevention messages at least 4- 6 times each year
Q36 Does your community promote and/or provide financial assistance for the implementation of stormwater pollution
prevention & treatment practices and projects for residents or local businesses?
(Select one)
(3 pts) Yes, promotion & financial assistance
(1 pt) Yes, promotion only
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don’t know / not specified
Q37 Does your community provide certification and training opportunities to municipal staff on a regular basis?
(variable) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
Q37a Which of the following certification and training opportunities are available?
(Select all that apply)
(1 pt) MIDS training (e.g. MIDS calculator, ordinance and BMP trainings)
(1 pt) Erosion & sediment control certification
(1 pt) Illicit Discharge detection & elimination training
(1 pt) NEMO “Stormwater U”
Inspection & Enforcement
Q38 [For non-MS4s only] Is your community’s (public and any private) stormwater system mapped?
(Select one)
(1 pt) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don’t know / not specified
(N/A) MS4 - not applicable in my community
Q39 [For non-MS4s only] Does your community have an inspection & maintenance schedule for stormwater management
practices - including catch basin sumps & stormwater ponds?
(Select one)
(2 pts) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don’t know / not specified
(N/A) MS4 - not applicable in my community
Source Control
Q40 Does your community provide certification and training opportunities to municipal staff on a regular basis?
(variable) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
Q40a Which of the following certification and training opportunities are available?
(Select all that apply)
(2 pts) MPCA Smart Salting Level 2 Training
(1 pt) MPCA Smart Salting Level 1 Training
(1 pt) Other Smart Salting Training
(1 pt) Fertilizer & Pesticide use minimization training for staff and/or for institutional, parks, residential or commercial property managers
Q41 Which of the following salt management strategies does your community use?
(Select one)
(3 pts) Salt Savings Assessment tool (SSAt) to track BMPs related to chloride use
(3 pts) 5-year BMP implementation plan to improve salt or chloride management practices
(2 pts) Salt or Chloride Management Plan
(1 pt) Salt use tracking
(0 pts) None
(0 pts) I don’t know / not specified
Q42 Does your community street sweeping program include sweeping more than twice per year and/or utilizing vacuum
sweeping technology?
(variable) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
Q42a Please select all that apply:
(2 pts) Sweep four or more times per year
(1 pt) Sweep two or three times per year
(1 pt) Utilize vacuum sweeping technology
Q43 Does your community prioritize street sweeping in areas where water flows directly into lakes, streams, wetlands and
Wellhead Protection Areas?
(Select one)
(2 pts) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
Q44 Does your community prioritize inspections of permitted businesses storing/using hazardous and/or toxic chemicals that
are in areas where water flows directly into lakes, streams and wetlands, and to Wellhead Protection Areas?
(Select one)
(2 pts) Yes
(0 pts) No
(0 pts) I don't know / not specified
Q45 What type of residential yard waste collection program does your community have?
(Select one)
(5 pts) Curbside pick-up available to all residents by default
(3 pts) Elective pick-up available
(2 pts) Collection site at which residents drop off yard waste
(0 pts) None
(0 pts) I don’t know / not specified
Scores
Stormwater Assessment
Raw Total: 99
Maximum Possible Stormwater Assessment Total (this value will change if you selected N/A on a number of questions):
181
Stormwater Assessment Score: 55%
Climate Adaptation
Climate Adaptation Raw Total: 45
Maximum Possible Climate Adaptation Total (this value will change if you selected N/A on a number of questions):
84
Climate Adaptation Score: 54%
Please go to the next page to finalize and submit your assessment.
Submission Confirmation
You have reached the conclusion of the GreenStep Cities Municipal Stormwater Management Assessment. You received
the following scores:
Stormwater Assessment Score: 55%
Climate Adaptation Score: 54%
Please use these scores when completing the GreenStep Cities Steps 4 & 5 Metrics Reporting Tool. The Stormwater
Assessment Score and Climate Adaptation Score are metrics 9.1 and 9.2, respectively.
Before clicking the SUBMIT button below, please print or save a copy of this assessment using the PRINT button.
Click SUBMIT to finalize the assessment and send your results to the MPCA GreenStep Cities team.
Thank you!
PROGRAM/PROJECT UPDATES – April 2020
GREENCORPS
City Hall Organics Recycling –Since implementing the organics recycling program at City Hall in November, 1,060 pounds
of organic waste has been diverted from landfills.
NATURAL RESOURCES
Pennsylvania Woods DNR Habitat Grant – The City recently received confirmation that it was selected to receive a
habitat grant for areas of the Pennsylvania Woods Nature Area that are outside of the DeCola Ponds B and C Flood
Mitigation project boundaries. The project will involve the removal of buckthorn and other invasive species and the
planting and establishment of native vegetation. A request for quotes will be sent out in the coming months to select a
contractor to complete the work outlined in the project.
MetroBlooms Workshop- With the assistance and funding from the Environmental Commission, the City sponsored a
Resilient Yards workshop put on by MetroBlooms on Thursday, April 2nd. The workshop was originally planned to be
hosted in-person at Brookview Community Center, but was moved to an interactive webinar format due to COVID-19.
Early reports from the program staff and attendees indicate that the online format went well, and survey results show
that attendees found the workshop valuable in this new format.
Recycling and Solid Waste updates- Staff will give an update of recent changes to recycling and solid waste programs
due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
WATER RESOURCES
DeCola Ponds Flood Mitigation Projects - The DeCola Ponds B and C project is about 85% complete. The excavation and
utility work should finish up in April, with trail construction in May, and the City’s native vegetation contractor seeding
and planting trees, shrubs, and grasses in May, June, and September 2020.
The City and Bassett Creek Watershed are beginning to plan and study the next flood mitigation project areas. The
Wildwood Park/SEA School area has been identified as having potential for flood storage to benefit properties around
DeCola Ponds D, E, and F. A planning level study to understand opportunities and challenges and develop concepts is
programmed for this spring and will include engagement with the community, the school, and nearby stakeholders. The
Isaacson Park/Industrial Area is also being looked at for potential future flood storage. The DNR is supportive of the
projects in Golden Valley and has requested flood damage reduction funding in the 2020 state bonding bill this
legislative session. Look for more information and an invitation to a (virtual) open house in the coming months.
2020 Pond Maintenance Project - As part of its ongoing commitment to protect and improve surface water quality in
Golden Valley, the City has developed a long-term program for inspecting, prioritizing, and maintaining its stormwater
treatment ponds. The City uses modeling software to assess and prioritize which ponds to field inspect each year. Field
inspection includes assessing the condition of stormwater pipes and structures, recording the extent of erosion and
sediment deposition, and surveying pond depths using a small boat and survey equipment.
Based on preliminary modeling, four ponds were identified for field inspection in 2020 (see map below). On April 20, the
City’s engineering consultant WSB & Associates, began performing the inspections. Depending on the results of the field
inspections, pond modeling, and benefit-cost analysis, up to two ponds will be selected for maintenance in 2020.
PLANNING AND ZONING AND DEVELOPMENTS
Apr 22, 2020
7345 Country Club Drive (Schuller’s Tavern)—Re-guiding the property from Low Density Residential to Commercial –
Retail/Service and rezoning the property from Single-Family Residential (R-1) to Commercial. The applicant would like to
add an outdoor patio, but because this is a non-conforming use it cannot expand without completing three key steps: re-
guide/rezone, receive a Conditional Use Permit for a restaurant/bar use, and obtain variances from the Board of Zoning
Appeals to bring the building into conformance. The same request was made in 2012 (recommended for denial by the
Planning Commission and no action taken by the City Council). Scheduled for a public hearing on May 11.
Narrow Lots—In early March, the Planning Commission continued its study of narrow lots in Golden Valley and possible
ways to mitigate impacts of development on neighboring properties. The study of these lots was temporarily put on hold
but is expected to continue at the regular meeting on May 11 with a review of draft code language. An informal public
hearing on this topic is then expected in late May with formal consideration by the City Council in mid-June.
Tobacco Sales Restrictions—A Zoning Text Amendment to restrict the sale of tobacco products based on nearby uses was
discussed in January, February, and March. Following recent City Council action to restrict the sale of flavored tobacco, to
raise the age of sales to 21, and to cap the number of City tobacco licenses, the Planning Commission began looking at
additional locational restrictions around schools, parks, and other youth-oriented centers. A public hearing on new
restrictions still remains to be scheduled.
City Council
1421 Rhode Island Ave N—A Minor Subdivision to divide one lot into two. The existing home would remain but a new lot
would be created on which a new home would be constructed. This property is the result of a consolidation of three
narrower lots in 2008. The Planning Commission recommended approval (7-0) on April 12. Scheduled for the May 5 City
Council meeting.
Housing and Redevelopment Authority
Housing Strategic Plan—At its meeting on April 21, the HRA adopted a five-year Housing Strategic Plan to guide efforts to
preserve affordable housing and expand protections for tenants, adopted a Fair Housing Policy, and signaled their intent
to Hennepin County to establish an HRA levy. An actually decision on whether or not to commit to a levy would not be
made until later in 2020.