2020-09-30 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 133 298 1930. 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 August 24, 2020 Regular Meeting Minutes (5 min)
5. Old Business
A. Environmental Justice Collaboration Update (5 min)
B. Partners In Energy Update (20 min)
C. Curbside Organics Collection Update (5 min)
6. New Business
A. New GreenCorps Member (Story Schwantes) (5 min)
B. GreenStep Cities - Best Practice 13.2 Efficient City Fleets (5 min)
(Action Requested)
C. R-3 Density Bonus Standards (25 min)
D. Program/Project Updates (10 min)
E. Council Updates (5 min)
F. Other Business (5 min)
7. Adjournment
September 30, 2020 – 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 133 703 2251. 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, Dawn Hill, Jim Stremel,
Shannon Hansen, Wendy Weirich
Commissioners absent: None
Council Members present: None
Staff present: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor;
Drew Chirpich, Environmental Specialist;
Carrie Nelson, Administrative Assistant.
3. Approval of Agenda
MOTION by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Stremel to approve the agenda of
August 24, 2020 and the motion carried.
4. Approval of July 27, 2020 Regular Meeting Minutes
MOTION by Commissioner Galonska, seconded by Commissioner Weirich to approve the minutes
of July 27, 2020 as submitted and the motion carried.
5. Old Business
A. Partners in Energy Update (PIE)
i. Commissioner Golanska is the representative from the EC.
ii. There was a survey for the team members to get to know each other and their
backgrounds/experience/knowledge before the first meeting.
iii. First meeting was August 25. Facilitators are from Xcel Energy and the Center
for Energy and the Environment (CEE).
1. There will be an overview of the entire program and plan developed
over the next 6 months.
2. Team will review the demographics and energy consumption data in
Golden Valley.
August 24, 2020 – 6:30 pm
City of Golden Valley Environmental Commission Regular Meeting
August 24, 2020 – 6:30 pm
2
3. Team will create an energy vision statement for the community from a
proposed draft vision.
iv. Groups represented on the team:
1. Business
2. Schools and Institutions
3. Residents
4. Prism
5. Corporate – General Mills, Allianz, and Mortenson Construction
B. Curbside Organics Collection Update – All in – Everyone Pays
i. Looking to send out the Request for Proposals (RFP) by December/January
along with draft contracts for both organics and mixed recycling.
ii. Will share with EC in September before sitting down with Council.
iii. There is a chance the organics and mixed recycling company could be the same
contractor.
1. It wouldn’t cut down on the number of trucks. Separate trucks to
separate places. Pushing companies to look into things such as smaller
bins, and trucks the can accommodate more than one stream of waste
and recycling.
2. Carts couldn’t be shared.
3. Better pricing for residents?
C. Environmental Justice Collaboration
i. A time to meet hasn’t been scheduled yet. Hopefully sooner rather than later.
ii. Anyone else interested in joining the sub-committee?
6. New Business
A. Using Goats for Vegetation Management
i. Looking to provide a recommendation in September or October to bring to council.
ii. Using goats would cut down on the amount of chemicals used. It would also
reduce our carbon footprint by not using machines
iii. Questions to consider:
1. Is there a way to keep them from eating the good native plants?
2. How do you choose the location?
a. City Forester and Drew will look at each location.
b. We have a natural resources inventory and can look at areas with a
higher percentage of buckthorn.
c. Would use in targeted areas with double-row of fencing.
3. Cost? Using Goats vs. Paying a Company or, if residential, Doing it Yourself.
4. How can we decrease seed spread?
a. Possibly remove the large berry producing trees before using the
goats.
5. How many goats and for how long per area size?
6. How can we keep goat waste out of waterways?
a. Use a vegetative buffer as well as two rows of erosion control
barrier before the water.
City of Golden Valley Environmental Commission Regular Meeting
August 24, 2020 – 6:30 pm
3
iv. Residential Goat Use:
1. Make it clear that goats are to be rented from a licensed herder who
manages them and can only be on the property for a certain amount of
time.
2. Residents will need to submit a permit application to propose the area
goats will be used for staff to review and advise.
3. The City will send notices to adjacent properties. These homeowners will
have the option to object. If a certain percentage of properties object the
permit would go before the Council for approval.
4. There will be a limitation to how many goats can be used based on the size
of the property.
v. Hold off on Sheep for now. Look at allowing them in the future after we see how
goat use goes.
vi. Look at the other City Codes as examples of what we would like to model ours to
look like.
B. Energy Update
i. Solar Production Data:
1. The City has installed four – 40-Kilowatt solar arrays on top of buildings at
the City Hall Campus. The arrays produce about 10% of the energy
consumed by the City each year – this helps offset our GHG emissions.
ii. GreenStep Cities Step 4-5 Energy Metric
1. Made improvements from 2016 to 2017 in every area with the exception of
Annual Renewable Energy Purchases by the City (14.4).
a. This is the purchase of renewable energy generated by, for
example, solar or wind from Xcel or a 3rd party. Can purchase
credits and invest in big solar farms or community solar gardens
outside of Golden Valley.
b. The previous Council’s thinking was that we are producing energy
already with the solar arrays so it wouldn’t make sense to purchase
it from outside the City.
c. We spoke with the Council a couple years ago and they decided we
wanted to do more locally and invest in the community.
d. Wait to see what the Energy Action Team comes up with for energy
goals and plans.
e. Do we track how much solar power from the Cities arrays is being
sold back to the grid? Credits back?
f. Do we have enough to get a Step 5?
i. We have to fulfill the green sections to achieve step 5.
We’re working to document year over year to maintain Step
4 status and accumulate multiple Step 4 years.
ii. Green Step Cities Program keeps evolving. 14.4 may not be
a requirement forever. If it comes down to needing it to get
to Step 5 maybe the council would be receptive to that and
City of Golden Valley Environmental Commission Regular Meeting
August 24, 2020 – 6:30 pm
4
there will be a program we could buy into that would make
sense and could save the taxpayers money.
MOTION by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Yahle to approve the
Energy Metric as submitted within the GreenSteps Program and the motion
carried.
C. Program/Project Updates
i. Wildwood Park / SEA School Survey
1. Potential Above/Below Ground Floodwater Storage in under-utilized areas
of the park.
2. Communication Staff put together a Community Input Report available on
the website. This was used to put together three different concept plans
for the community to review.
a. A letter will be sent out with the concept plans and to point people
to the Community Input Report and ask for community input on the
concept plans.
3. Possible for the Commission to have input?
4. Come back to this next month?
5. Eric will need to ask about this to see if it’s something that can have further
discussion. Will it need to go to council to amend the 2020 workplan?
6. Commissioners can take the survey online and give feedback that way.
D. Council Updates
None
E. Other Business
i. Light Rail
1. Leasing from Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad and co-locating the
light rail with the freight rail, no agreement could be reached.
2. Will need to take a fresh look at the route and alignment. The Committees
are starting to meet.
7. Adjournment
MOTION by Commissioner Fettig, seconded by Commissioner Hill to adjourn the meeting at
8:24 pm and the motion carried.
ATTEST:
_________________________________ _________________________________________
Carrie Nelson, Administrative Assistant Scott Seys, Chair
G:\Environmental Commission\Memos\Monarch Pledge & Bee City
Date: September 25, 2020
To: Environmental Commission
From: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor
Subject: Xcel Energy’s Partners In Energy Update
The City was formally accepted into the Partners In Energy program in February 2020. The
project kickoff meeting took place in April and the Energy Action Planning Team was assembled
in summer 2020 to develop an energy action plan for the community. The first workshop took
place in August and presentation slides are attached for Commission information.
The second workshop is scheduled for September 29, 2020. The team will finalize the vision
statement and set the goals and focus areas for the plan.
Commissioner Galonska and staff will present information and provide a progress update to the
Commission.
WELCOME!
Golden Valley Planning Workshop 1
Tuesday, August 25
Zoom Meeting
Agenda & Objectives
Welcome & Introductions
Partners in Energy Overview
What Happens Next?
BREAK
Golden Valley Data: Part 1, Demographics
Golden valley Data: Part 2, Energy
Getting Started on Vision
Wrap up
Welcome from Golden
Valley Councilman
Larry Fonnest
7
•Name
•Organization
•Where is your favorite spot
in Golden Valley?
Introductions
8
9
Use the
“Annotate” tool
to put a stamp at
your favorite
spot in Golden
Valley
10
Energy Action Team Demographics
What organizations and community networks are you
connected to in Golden Valley?
7%
7%
14%
21%
21%
21%
21%
21%
29%
36%
50%
79%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Civic clubs or community groups (e.g. Lions Club)
Congregation
Business associations (e.g. Chamber of Commerce)
Other - Write In (Required)
Nonprofit or service provider (e.g. food pantry)
Neighborhood or homeowners association
Small or medium sized business
City departments
Large business
School district
City Council or Committee
Resident
PercentValue
11
How would you define your
energy literacy? Beginner
7%
Intermediate
47%
Advanced
47%
Overview from
Eric Eckman
12
Why are we doing this?
Response to a changing climate
Address local impacts, existing disparities, promote equity
2040 Comp Plan –
Resilience & Sustainability Chapter
Includes energy efficiency and renewable energy goals and policies
GreenStep Cities – many energy actions!
Council and Commission priority
City has been working on energy initiatives for years
Partners In Energy Program
Examples of energy actions:
Installing solar arrays on city bldgs
Installing EV charger at city hall
B3 Benchmarking (more efficient city
bldgs)
LED changeouts (street lights, signals,
lighting)
SolSmart Bronze certification
Partners in Energy is next logical step to
engage entire community in improving
efficiency; developing renewable
energy; and reducing consumption and
carbon emissions
Partners In Energy Program
15
Partners in Energy Team
Community
Facilitators
Mike
Holsinger
Jenny
Edwards
Xcel Energy
Tami
Gunderzik
Yvonne
Pfeifer
Michelle
Swanson
Ashley
Haung
Brady
Steigauf
• Partners in Energy is a two-year collaboration with Xcel Energy to
develop and implement your individual community energy plan
goals.
• Opportunity to engage stakeholders, create goals and strategies,
and develop a work plan to be successful.
16
What is Partners in Energy?
Developing the Plan
(4-6 months)
Implementation with
Partners in Energy
(18-20 months)
Continued Implementation
• Develop a better understanding of the energy needs of
communities we serve
• Better align the services and programs we offer with customer
needs to save energy and advance clean energy goals
• Strengthen relationships with the community and support the
Xcel Energy philosophy of community engagement
17
Xcel Energy’s Goals
18
31 Communities in
Minnesota & Wisconsin
• Attend planning workshops
• Contribute to the planning process
(Active participant)
• Represent your organization (Representative)
• Be a critical eye for credibility, transparency, and accuracy
(Critical Thinking)
• Advise City Council (Advisor)
• Be a conduit to your network (Ambassador)
19
Energy Action Team Roles
• Provide facilitation for the Energy Action Plan development
• Gather, process, and share data
• Actively learn more about community’s goals and needs
• Provide customized access to Xcel Energy programs &
resources
• Provide transition into and support during implementation
20
Xcel Energy Team Roles
21
Plan Development Steps
1. Anchoring 2. Baseline 3. Vision 4. Focus
Areas
5. Draft Goals 6. Divergent
Strategies
7.
Convergent
Strategies
8. Goal
Refinement
9. Action
Planning
10. Plan
Finalization 11. Launch
What will we do to deliver
on the strategy?
Which strategies will
maximize the impact of this
focus area?
How will we focus our
efforts to achieve our goal?
How do we know if we are
successful?
What should
Golden Valley’s energy
future look like?
Vision
Goal
Focus Area
1
Strategies
Tactics
Focus Area
2
Strategies
Tactics
Focus Area
3
Strategies
Tactics
22
Plan Framework
23
Rice University Speech, September 12, 1962
What will we do to deliver on the
strategy?
Which strategies will maximize
the impact of this focus area?
How will we focus our efforts to
achieve our goal?
How do we know if we are
successful?
What is our vision?Establish long term dominance over the
Soviet Union in space
“Put a man on the moon and return him safely to Earth
before the end of this decade.”
Build a
rocket
Recruit a
team
US
experts
WW2
experts
Test
designs
Power Safety
Recruit Astronauts
Body
Strength
Mind
Stress Smarts
Stay ahead
of Russia
Fresh
intel
U2 plane
24
JFK’s Plan
25
Planning Timeline
3 10 17 24 31 7 14 21 28 5 12 19 26 2 9 16 23 30 7 14 21 28 4 11 18 25 1 8 15 22
Workshop 1
Intro's & Overview
Vision & Goal
Workshop 2
Confirm Vision & Goal
Develop Focus Areas
Workshop 3
Confirm Focus Areas
Strategy Exploration
Workshop 4
Confirm Strategies
Brainstorm Tactics
Workshop 5
Confirm Tactics
Review 1st Draft of Plan
Plan Development
FebruaryJanuaryDecemberAugust September October November
26
Questions about
Partners in Energy
• In terms of the process and my 'personal
style,' I appreciate agendas, time for
reflection and consultation. My hope is the
PIE approach to team functionality will
allow for that as well as in-the-moment
brainstorming.
• Will we learn about programs that allow
residents to reduce barriers to
improvements (i.e. rebates, energy
assistance, city initiatives to cost match or
reduce barriers to participation).
• What is Xcel and CEE's involvement with
Golden Valley after this planning process?
• When will we obtain an Xcel Energy/
Partners in Energy account so we can
view information that requires a login?
• I would only be critical of the use of dated
imagery showing indoor groups which are
not part of a responsible promotional video
as we navigate a global health pandemic.
• Will this group influence or change policies
or operations of Xcel, the city, local
businesses, or residents? What is the
return for nonprofits who already work on a
very thin margin?
• Lower overall energy prices work against
conservation returns. How are the plans
affected by low energy costs?
Break
Returning in 10 minutes
10 Minute Break
5 Minutes Left!
2 Minutes Left!
• Demographics
• Energy usage
• Energy Saving Activities
Data Overview
•Population estimate 21,364 in 2018
•Median age 46.5 years
–Older than state average of 37.8, as well as Hopkins, New
Hope, Plymouth
•9,042 households in Golden Valley
•15% families with children
•86% of Golden Valley residents are white
•10% speak a language other than English at home
•8% of residents live below the poverty level 30
Demographic Data
From Metropolitan Council Community Profile Data https://stats.metc.state.mn.us/profile/
•$93,329 median income
–Vs. $68,411 in Minnesota
•8% of residents live below the poverty level
–Vs. 10.1%in Minnesota
•Average energy burden is 2%
–Residents below 60% of AMI spend 5% of their income with
lowest-income residents spending 12%
31
Demographic Data
US Census, 2018 ACS 5-Year Estimates Data
7%
3%2% 2%1%
5%
2%
1% 1%
1%815
1,250
741 834
5,398
0
1000
2000
3000
4000
5000
6000
0%
2%
4%
6%
8%
10%
12%
14%
0% - 30% 30% - 60% 60% - 80% 80% - 100% 100%+Golden Valley Households% Income Spent on EnergyArea Median Income
% Income - Electricity % Income - Gas Housing Counts
32
Golden Valley Energy Burden by
% Area Median Income
15%: $13,999 45%: $41,998 70%: $65,309 90%: $83,996 100%: $93,329
Source: US Census, US Dept. of Energy
$1,679 $2,099 $1,959 $2,519 $1,867
• Housing type and count: 9,540 Units
–68% single-family detached
–9%single-family attached, duplex, triplex or quad
–22% 5+ unit
•Own/Rent
–75% owner-occupied
–25% renter-occupied
33
Golden Valley Housing Data
US Census, 2018 ACS 5-Year Estimates Data
• Median housing value $288,700
• Median gross rent $1,231/mo
•27% of households experience housing cost
burden
–Spend more than 30% of their income on
mortgage or rent
34
Golden Valley Housing Data
US Census, 2018 ACS 5-Year Estimates Data, Metropolitan Council Community Profile
Health Care and Social Assistance
13%
Professional and Technical Services
13%
All Other Industries
13%
Finance and Insurance
12%
Manufacturing
11%
Management of Companies and Enterprises
11%
Wholesale Trade
8%
Retail Trade
8%
Administrative and Waste Services
7%
Accommodation and Food Services
4%
35
2019 Golden Valley Employment
by Industry
Accessed June 19: Metropolitan Council Community Profile Data https://stats.metc.state.mn.us/profile/
• What surprised you?
• Is there a data point we missed?
Golden Valley
Demographics
• Both Xcel Energy electric and CenterPoint Energy natural gas data
included unless otherwise noted
• 15x15 Data Privacy Rule
– Must be greater than 15 entities
– No single entity can account for more than 15 percent of the
usage
• Data is pulled for 2017-2019 to provide baseline to measure goals
• Both consumption and savings data provided
• Data are unofficial for planning purposes, and results may change
slightly
37
Energy Data 101
•Residential: represents residential premises, including single-family
and townhomes
•Commercial & Industrial: represents business customers, such as
restaurants, gas stations, office buildings, hotels, manufacturing
facilities
•Premise: Unique identifier for location of service; premise ≠
customer
•Multi-family properties are metered differently and vary between
residential and commercial categorization
38
Energy Data 101
Residential
90%
Commercial
and Industrial
9%
Municipal
1%
Total Premises: 10,950
39
Golden Valley Premise Count
Data note: Xcel Energy electric premises only
Residential
34%
Commercial and
Industrial
65%
Municipal
1%
3,299,666 MMBtu
$49.2 Million
40
2019 Energy Consumption
(MMBtu)
Data note: Xcel Energy and CenterPoint Energy consumption data
Residential
31%
Commercial
and Industrial
68%
Municipal
1%
41
GHG Emissions (MTCO2)
2016 – 2019 average
Data note: Xcel Energy and CenterPoint Energy data
226,090 MTCO2e
$24,894
$3,222 $1,017
$6,381
$1,168 $765
$0
$5,000
$10,000
$15,000
$20,000
$25,000
$30,000
$35,000
Commercial and Industrial Municipal Residential
Electricty Natural Gas
42
Golden Valley Annual Energy Costs
per Premise
$31,275 $4,390 $1,782
43
Total Energy Consumption
by Premise Type
Data note: Xcel Energy and CenterPoint Energy consumption data
993 1,138 1,136
1,978 2,139 2,067
16
23 22
7573
8895 8738
6500
7000
7500
8000
8500
9000
-
500
1,000
1,500
2,000
2,500
3,000
3,500
2017 2018 2019 Total Degree DaysMMBtuThousandsResidential Commercial and Industrial Municipal TDD
44
Consumption by Energy Type
by Premise Type
Data note: Xcel Energy and CenterPoint Energy consumption data
6,000
6,500
7,000
7,500
8,000
-
500
1,000
1,500
2,000
2,500
2017 2018 2019 HDDMM BtuNatural Gas Consumption
Municipal
Commercial and Industrial
Residential
HDD
0
300
600
900
1200
0
200
400
600
800
1,000
1,200
2017 2018 2019 CDDMMBtuElectricity Consumption
Municipal
Commercial and Industrial
Residential
CDD
45
Xcel Energy Residential
Program Participation
3-Year Average Actual kWh Savings
Residential Heating 116,146
Efficient New Home
Construction 9,126
Residential Cooling 67,534
Home Energy Savings
Program 5,078
Home Energy Squad 52,038
Low-Income Home Energy
Squad 2,080
Refrigerator Recycling 47,528 Insulation Rebate 1,867
Multi-Family Energy
Savings Program 12,389 Smart Thermostat 964
46
Xcel Energy Commercial /
Industrial Program Participation
3-Year Average Actual kWh Savings
Lighting Efficiency 2,870,039 Data Center Efficiency 452,552
Energy Design Assistance 893,642 Motor Efficiency 345,398
Small Business Lighting 827,721 Fluid System Optimization 281,966
Efficiency Controls 686,558 Custom Efficiency 106,873
Recommissioning 487,853 Cooling 84,234
47
Renewable Energy Program
Participation
Residential
Commercial &
Industrial
Subscription Programs (Windsource®& Renewable*Connect®)
Subscriber Count 618 9
Total Annual Electricity Subscribed (kWh)2,370,272 9,308,023
Percent of Sector Electricity Use 4% 4%
On-Site and Community Solar (Solar*Rewards® & Solar*Rewards Community®)
Subscriber Count 311 82
Total Annual Electricity Subscribed (kWh) 1,769,920 9,564,511
Percent of Sector Electricity Use 2% 4%
Total Renewable Energy Support
Subscriber Count 929 91
Total Annual Electricity Subscribed (kWh) 4,140,192 18,872,534
Percent of Sector Electricity Use 6% 8%
Data note: 2019 participation, Xcel Energy programs only, classification done by community facilitators
• Total energy use has increased over the 3 year baseline
– Attributed to heating/cooling degree day changes
• Even though Commercial & Industrial sector represent only
9% of premises, they consume 65% of energy used
• Residents spend about $1,800 on energy/year
• Average Commercial / Industrial premise spends
about $31,000 per year
48
Energy Data Highlights
Five residential programs deliver significant savings
49
Residential Program
Participation Recap
Average Annual Savings (kWh)
Residential Heating 116,146
Residential Cooling 67,534
Home Energy Squad 52,038
Refrigerator Recycling 47,528
Multi-Family Energy Savings Program 12,389
“Big 5” Average Annual Savings 295,635
% of Total Annual kWh Savings 94%
Six commercial / industrial programs deliver significant savings
50
C/I Program Participation
Recap
Average Annual Savings (kWh)
Lighting Efficiency 2,870,039
Energy Design Assistance 893,642
Small Business Lighting 827,721
Efficiency Controls 686,558
Recommissioning 487,853
Data Center Efficiency 452,552
“Big 6” Average Annual Savings 6,218,365
% of Total Annual kWh Savings 88%
• What surprised you?
• Do you have lingering questions?
51
Data Questions
• A few years from now, how will people describe
Golden Valley in terms of its use of energy?
• What will have changed?
• How will it compare to other cities?
52
Energy Action Plan Vision
The City of Golden Valley will earn a reputation among peer
communities as the place where living is a little bit easier
because of smart energy conservation and initiatives that can
reduce energy costs for everyone. The Energy Action Plan will
make Golden Valley a more sustainable, resilient community by
assuring that the benefits of energy efficiency accrue to every
resident, business, and visitor.
53
Draft Vision Statement
Tested in Survey
54
Vision Feedback
1
0
2
1
2
0 0 0
1
0
1
2
3
This vision
statement
won't work.
2 3 4 It's okay 6 7 8 This vision
captures
what I hope
we can
achieve
Likes
I like the second half. Sustainable and resilient are not
synonyms so having both terms included is a real positive.
A little pie in the sky statement. What is the reality of it? Not
really getting the equation of "a little bit easier" and reduced
energy costs.
The last sentence stating that the plan will create more
sustainability & resiliency for all.
I think we can improve upon the phrase: "...living is a little bit
easier..."
Initiatives that reduce energy costs for everyone The second sentence is, in my opinion, perfect on its own.
It captures the essence of the PIE effort. The second sentence is very clear
It seems to accentuate the positive aspects of conserving
energy. I like that it is all inclusive to everyone.
Vision, values, future ranking/status among peers; smart energy conservation; $
saving; equitable impact on community members
55
Vision Feedback Detail
What’s Missing?
I really dislike the focus on peer communities. This process is
not about Robbinsdale or St. Louis Park, its about Golden
Valley. ….It is not a competition, its a common good. The PiE
video even talked about learning from other communities.
Conservation will not get us where we need to be in alignment
with the worlds scientific evidence. Goals and implementation
of renewable energies and a conscious move away from fossil
fuel consumption needs to be the focus.
It does not discuss the beneficial aspects of using renewable
wind and solar or increased use of EVs in place of internal
combustion engine cars.
Who informs the plans/vision? Will safety or health be
impacted? What is the timeframe? I really like the vision
statement...these are just a few thoughts.
Connection to climate and environmental resources.
Conservation of energy will help the planet.
It focuses too much on the city's reputation with other cities and
not enough on the benefits to residents and businesses.
More definite & measurable terminology and less terms like "a
little bit", "smart" & "that can".
Not real specific. When I read this, I'm not sure what the actual
plan is? But I guess that's why they call it a vision.
Passion: A Call to Action! The success of the PIE effort will
depend on individual and institutional commitments practiced
every day.
something about..."become a leader in energy initiatives that
help reduce carbon emissions and improve the quality of life for
all." big initiatives: renewable energy production EV adoption
efficient buildings
I think it is missing goals that are measurable. Not missing but I do think the first sentence is extra and not
needed 56
Vision Feedback Detail
The Energy Action Plan will make Golden Valley a more
sustainable, resilient community by assuring that the benefits of
energy efficiency accrue to every resident, business, and visitor.
57
Revised Vision Statement?
58
Follow –Ups from Workshop 1
August 27, 2020
Contents
•“Professional & Technical Services”
•Where are Electricians, Plumbers, etc.
•Age of residences
•Portion of Golden Valley homes built over 30 years ago
•Length of home ownership
•Average home size
•Renewables
•Commercial / Industrial
•Residential
•Golden Valley residents’ age distribution vs. neighboring cities
•Golden Valley’s largest employers
•A correction
Which occupations are included in
“Professional & Technical Services”?
3
Source: https://www.bls.gov/iag/tgs/iag54.htm
The Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services sector
comprises establishments that specialize in performing
professional, scientific, and technical activities for others. These
activities require a high degree of expertise and training. …
Activities performed include: legal advice and representation;
accounting, bookkeeping, and payroll services; architectural,
engineering, and specialized design services; computer services;
consulting services; research services; advertising services;
photographic services; translation and interpretation services;
veterinary services; and other professional, scientific, and
technical services.
What about electricians,
plumbers, etc.
•Occupations are located in “Construction” category
•Included in “All other industries” in Golden Valley chart.
4
Health Care and Social Assistance
13%
Professional and Technical Services
13%
All Other Industries
13%
Finance and Insurance
12%
Manufacturing
11%
Management of Companies and Enterprises
11%
Wholesale Trade
8%
Retail Trade
8%
Administrative and Waste Services
7%
Accommodation and Food Services
4%
ACS, 2018: 5-Year Estimates Data Profiles
Age of residences
0
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
10 or less 11-20 21-30 31-40 41-50 51-60 61-70 71-80 81+
Age of Homes in Golden Valley
5ACS, 2018: 5-Year Estimates Data Profiles
Average residence age
10 or less
3%11 -20
6%21-30
6%
30 +
85%
Age of Homes in Golden Valley
6ACS, 2018: 5-Year Estimates Data Profiles
Average Length of
Ownership
5 years
or less
19%
6-10
21%
11 -20
24%
21-30
15%
31+
21%
7ACS, 2018: 5-Year Estimates Data Profiles
10 years
or less
39%
11 -20
25%
21-30
15%
31+
21%
Average home size
(# of bedrooms)
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
1 bedroom 2 bedrooms 3 bedrooms 4 bedrooms 5 or more bedrooms
Homes by number of bedrooms in Golden Valley
8ACS, 2018: 5-Year Estimates Data Profiles
Renewables:
Golden Valley vs. Neighbors
10.30
18.90 20.00
27.10
1.30 1.20
28.00
4.80
0
10
20
30
0
50
100
150
200
250
Million kWh subscribed (annual approximated)SubscribersCommercial / Industrial Renewables:
Subscribers and kWh subscribed
9Xcel Energy data
PiE Communities > 1MM kWh Commercial / Industrial renewables annually
Renewables:
Golden Valley vs. Neighbors
26.8
5.7 5.5 4.8 4.1 3.9 2.7 2.0 1.9 1.7 1.5 0
10
20
30
0
3
5
8
10
Million kWh subscribed(annual approximated)SubscribersThousandsResidential Renewables:
Subscribers and kWh subscribed
10Xcel Energy data
PiE Communities > 1MM kWh Residential renewables annually
Golden Valley:
Older than its neighbors
11
18%
22%22%
12%
23%
19%
23%
15%
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
Under 18 years 65 years and over
Age Variation vs. Neighboring Cities
% of population meeting age criteria
Golden Valley Hopkins New Hope Plymouth
2018: ACS 5-Year Estimates Data Profiles
Golden Valley’s Largest
Employers
12City of Golden Valley, 2018 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report. p.132
-
500
1,000
1,500
2,000
2,500
3,000
A correction
22% of Golden Valley households have children under 18
13ACS, 2018: 5-Year Estimates Data Profiles
G:\Environmental Commission\Memos
Date: September 23, 2020
To: Environmental Commission
From: Drew Chirpich, Environmental Specialist
Subject: GreenStep Cities- Best Practice 13.2
Golden Valley entered the GreenStep Cities program in April 2016 and was recognized as a “Step
4” city on May 31st 2019. Each best practice encompasses a variety of actions a city may take in
order to complete it.
The City recently purchased a 2020 Hybrid Ford Explorer, to help increase the efficiency of its
fleet.
The police and fire departments purchased the first of its kind hybrid vehicle to test the usage,
performance, miles per gallon (mpg), and costs over time. It will be driven by the rotating duty
officer which will allow it to gain the highest amount of miles in the fleet annually. The hybrid
model has a better average mpg than the non-hybrid AWD Explorer (23 mpg combined city/hwy
vs hybrid 25 mpg).
This purchase should qualify as Best Practice 13.2 for the GreenStep Cities Program.
Please review this action for the September Commission meeting. After brief discussion, staff
requests that the Commission consider making a motion to approve this for entry into the
GreenStep Cities website.
Attachments:
G:\Environmental Commission\Memos
Date: September 25, 2020
To: Environmental Commission
From: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor
Subject: Density Bonuses in Medium Density (R-3) Zoning District
At its August 24 meeting, the Planning Commission requested the Environmental Commission
review the City’s proposed R-3 density bonuses and assist in developing a policy document that
will more specifically outline and detail the allowable density bonuses based on certain
environmental performance standards. The R-3 zoning district typically includes medium density
housing (townhomes, apartments & condominiums, senior housing) up to 10 units per acre.
For context, the allowed densities in the R-3 zoning district are being updated to align with the
land uses in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. The current code language provides density bonuses
of 1-2 units per acre if certain conditions are met, including providing underground parking,
locating along a high frequency transit line, and construction of recreational amenities within the
development. In order to update these bonuses, the Commission looked to the goals and
priorities included in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan – mostly around energy efficiency and
sustainability.
What you’ll see below are the topics the Planning Commission voted to approve, along with draft
language that was mostly pulled from the PUD Amenity Options in city code. Ultimately, the
Planning Commission decided to leave the details of each topic to be worked out in a separate
policy document so they can be updated more easily as technologies and standards change over
time. The Planning Commission requested the Environmental Commission review the language
below and assist in developing a policy document that can be approved by City Council in 2020.
Density Bonus. Multifamily buildings shall be eligible for a density bonus of up to an
additional three units per acre and senior and physical disability housing shall be eligible
for a density bonus of up to an additional five units per acre, provided the
corresponding conditions are met:
(1) Underground Parking. The provision of one or more underground parking stalls per
dwelling unit shall increase the maximum allowable density by two units per acre.
(2) Green Certified Buildings. Buildings that achieve LEED Platinum certification by a
LEED accredited professional shall increase the maximum allowable density by two units
per acre. Buildings that achieve LEED Gold certification by a LEED accredited
professional shall increase the maximum allowable density by one unit per acre.
(3) Renewable Energy. Use of a photovoltaic or wind electrical system, solar thermal
system, and/or a geothermal heating and cooling system for at least 50 percent of the
annual energy demand shall increase the maximum allowable density by two units per
acre.
(4) Microgrids. Construction of microgrid infrastructure that contributes efficiency,
security, and back-up power to a local system shall increase the maximum allowable
density by two units per acre.
(5) Electric Vehicle Charging Stations. An electric vehicle charging station accessible to
residents, employees, and/or the public providing connections at the rate of five
percent of the required parking spaces shall increase the maximum allowable density by
one unit per acre.
(6) Stormwater Facilities. Above ground, multi-benefit green infrastructure designed to
enhance water quality and reduce stormwater runoff rates, volumes, and nutrient loads
beyond what is required by the City and Watershed shall increase the maximum
allowable density by one unit per acre. The design must serve as a visual amenity to the
property and be reflective of innovative techniques.
Planning Commissioners and Planning staff added some notes and questions raised on each
topic:
• Underground parking – What is the right ratio of underground parking to surface parking
needed to qualify for a bonus?
• Green certified buildings – Should the bonus be reserved for Platinum level (or the
equivalent) and not for the Gold level, as that may be too easy to achieve? Are there
other types of certifications that should be considered?
• Renewable energy – Is the 50% of annual energy threshold the right one?
• Microgrids – There were a number of questions around this topic, including how to
measure it.
• Electric vehicle charging stations – Commissioners wanted to encourage quick charge vs.
slow charge stations and to be sure they were available for public use (not just for the
tenants). Also, they wanted to be sure enough were required above and beyond what a
developer might be planning to install anyway.
• Stormwater facilities – There were questions around how to measure this and what a
qualifying design might look like.
• There are other questions that need to be asked and thought through as well, including
how many units/acre are the conditions and performance standards worth? The thought
is that each may be worth 1, 2, or 3 units per acre and they can be mixed and matched
and layered to add up to the maximum allowable density.
Commissioners are asked to read through the draft language and come to the meeting with
questions, comments, and thoughts on specific performance standards and corresponding
density bonuses. Input from this meeting will be used to draft a policy document that will be
reviewed by the Environmental Commission at a future meeting, and forwarded to the Planning
Commission and City Council for final consideration and approval.
PROGRAM/PROJECT UPDATES – September 2020
GREENCORPS
Member for 2020-2021 service term – The City has been informed that they have been selected to host a GreenCorps
member for the upcoming 2020-2021 service term and a member has accepted the position with Golden Valley. The
member will be in the Air Pollution Reduction track and will work on many of the City’s sustainability and energy
reduction goals.
RECYCLING
Hennepin County SCORE funds- The City was recently informed that the County will be extending its existing funding
agreement with cities to assist with their Recycling programs. The current allocation of funds is distributed 50% for
recycling programs and 50% for organics programs.
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. The contract has been awarded to Landbridge Ecological, and the
project is expected to commence late fall 2020.
Pollinator Plots – The City recently sent out a request for quotes to install two new pollinator plots along Douglas Drive
on parcels currently being mowed as turf grass. Staff is currently reviewing the quotes and will notify the apparent
lowest responsible bidder in the coming weeks. Staff anticipates these pollinator plots being installed this fall with
residual work next spring.
Pollinator Signs - The GV Garden Club is selling yard signs to show we all care about pollinators. See the attachment to
find out how to get your sign and to learn simple steps for helping pollinators. Signs will be available for sale at the GV
Farmer's Market (9 am - 1 pm) the next two Sundays (September 27 and October 4). Also available - "Simple Steps"
information resources table/display. Thank you from the Golden Valley Garden Club and People for Pollinators Golden
Valley!
WATER RESOURCES
DeCola Ponds Flood Mitigation Projects - The DeCola Ponds B and C Project is complete with the exception of ongoing
native vegetation establishment over the next few growing seasons.
The City and Bassett Creek Watershed are beginning to plan and study the next flood mitigation project areas. 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. A planning level study to understand opportunities and challenges and develop concepts is
underway and includes 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. It
is still unclear whether a bonding bill will move forward this fall.
Below is a link to a community engagement opportunity to review the concept plans developed for the SEA School-
Wildwood Park area based on input provided by residents and stakeholders.
http://goldenvalleymn.gov/stormwater/projects/2020/sea-school.php
Medley Park Stormwater Improvement Study
The Bassett Creek Watershed in partnership with the City of Golden Valley is engaging in a feasibility study to look at
options for providing water quality treatment and flood storage in the western portion of Medley Park to benefit the
local area and protect and improve downstream waters such as Medicine Lake. The study will include community
engagement to better understand existing conditions, issues, and needs and help develop concept plans for
consideration this winter. Look for an opportunity to engage in a virtual open house in the coming weeks.
MS4 Stormwater Permit – MPCA announced this week that it plans to release 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. 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 late summer, Hennepin County staff hosted another listening session 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. Look for more information by the end of
2020.
Pollinator Signs Attachment
Signs will be available at the Golden Valley Farmer’s Market on Sept. 27 and Oct. 4. You can
also contact the GV Garden Club at GVGardenClub.com or our Facebook page, or email us at
gardenclubgv@yahoo.com.
Agenda
•Provide an update on the county’s climate action
planning
•Review and discuss proposed strategies focused on
external partnership and greater coordination
•Wrap up and outline next steps
1Public entity partners climate meeting
Climate planning timeline
Hennepin County
Developing climate strategies
Climate action teams developed strategies in the following categories:
•Protect people and reduce racial disparities
•Emissions reduction
•Adaptation and resiliency
•Leading by example in county operations
•Partnership and advocacy
3
For each set of strategies, please share:
•In what ways do these strategies align strongly with your organization’s priorities for partnership?
•Are there ways in which these strategies do not align with your priorities for partnership?
•What other strategies do you want to see the county pursue in support of partnership and greater coordination?
Foster
long-term,
integrated
planning
•Jointly collect and analyze data to track evolving climate vulnerabilities and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
•Explore partnership models driven by mutual and regionally beneficial climate goals.
•Develop and include a climate analysis framework with a lens on health and racial equity.
•Plan for resilient and sustainable buildings and infrastructure.
•Engage a broad range of stakeholders - public partners, businesses, community organizations, employees, and residents, especially those who will be most impacted by climate change – in understanding the impacts and developing solutions.
Reduce vehicle
emissions and
align
transportation
activities with
climate-friendly
community
design
•Reduce travel delays through Advanced Traffic
Management Systems (ATMS).
•Promote EV infrastructure regionally by working with
electrical utilities to install EV charging stations.
•Support increased and more efficient transit usage
of county roadways.
•Continue to partner and advocate for the buildout of
transit (and TOD), bicycle, and pedestrian facilities.
•Reassess flexible work schedules and facilitate
telecommuting for employees to reduce vehicle
miles traveled.
Reduce
flooding and
manage
stormwater
•Coordinate regional stormwater resiliency efforts.
•Build stormwater facilities within county right of way as part of capital-improvement projects in opportunistic ways that share costs when achieving both county and city water management goals.
•Dedicate land at time of plat review for climate change mitigation and stormwater facilities.
•Coordinate climate change response actions with partners, avoid exacerbating water quality degradation downstream.
•Seek opportunities for managed retreat in areas most vulnerable to flash flooding e.g. finding opportunity zones with Hennepin County’s tax forfeiture group, city economic development authorities, and local watersheds.
Influencing
land
use
•Use land use planning strategies to expand the use of green infrastructure, minimize impervious surfaces, and lower overall vehicle miles traveled.
•Consider resiliency and climate change mitigation when determining the highest and best use of areas zoned for development or re-development; use creative zoning, ordinance, taxing, and incentive structures to protect and retain values of natural and open areas, like flood storage.
•Expand collaboration on natural resource preservation and habitat improvement using conservation easements and restoration projects.
•Plant more trees and native plants and promote agricultural best management practices to manage stormwater, improve air quality, reduce the urban heat island effect, and expand carbon sequestration.
Transition to
renewable energy
sources and
decrease energy
usage overall
•Achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions from new buildings throughout the county.
•Become more engaged in developing state Conservation Improvement Program (CIP) benchmarks and strategies, adopting state building code standards, especially in supporting regional initiatives.
•Coordinate efforts to achieve minimum energy performance targets for new construction and major renovations on both public and private properties.
•Coordinate equitable access to energy-efficiency and renewable energy resources, incentives, outreach, and other tools for residents and businesses.
Mitigate the
climate impacts of
the materials we
consume and
how we manage
waste
•Prevent food waste and diverting organic material from the trash.
•Divert construction and demolition waste for reuse or recycling instead.
•Evaluate sustainable purchasing best practices and provide guidance on how to reduce climate impacts with all purchases.
•Use Life Cycle Analysis for selecting climate-friendly building materials and furnishings.
•Increase the use of compost to sequester carbon, regenerate soils, manage stormwater and close the loop with organics recycling.
Educate and
engage the public
in taking
collective action
•Clearly communicate climate risks and
vulnerabilities.
•Understand our residents’ attitudes
barriers and motivation toward taking
action to address climate change and
develop effective programs, messages,
and outreach efforts to support collective
action.
Use the county’s
legislative
platform to raise
a collective voice
for climate policy
at the state and
federal level
•Support legislation and policies to further
county goals of mitigating the impacts of
climate change, protecting and enhancing
natural environments, and promoting
sustainability in county operations.
Wrapping up the discussion
•Are we moving in the right direction?
•Overall, do the strategies proposed meet your expectations for the
county’s response to climate change?
Hennepin County
Next steps
•Take the survey by Sept 9
•Summary of survey feedback and discussion today will be shared back
•Board briefing September 24
•Conduct broader stakeholder engagement externally
•Continue to refine strategies based on feedback received
•Draft plan document and prepare to share with commissioners by year end