2021-05-24 EC Agenda Packet7800 Golden Valley Road I Golden Valley, WIN 55427
763-593-8027 � TTY 763-593-3968 1 763-593-8198 (fax) I www.goldenvalleymn.gov
Environmental Commission
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
city of
goldvall�
Y
May 24, 2021— 6:30 pm
This meeting will be held via Cisco Webex in accordance with the local emergency declaration made
by the City under Minn. Stat. § 12.37. The public may monitor this meeting by calling 1-415-655-
0001 and entering the meeting code 177 393 4642. 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 April 26, 2021 Regular Meeting Minutes (5 min)
5. Old Business
A. Partners In Energy — Plan Implementation (15 min)
6. New Business
A. Commission Re -Orientation (10 min)
B. Election of Officers (5 min)
Action requested
C. School Outreach & Engagement (15 min)
D. GreenStep Cities - Step 5, Metric 11 Wastewater (5 min)
Action requested
E. Zero Waste Events (5 min)
F. Environmental Resources Needs (10 min)
G. Program/Project Updates (5 min)
H. Council Updates (5 min)
I. Other Business
7. Adjournment
This document is available in alternate formats upon a 72-hour request. Please call
763-593-8006 (TTY: 763-593-3968) to make a request. Examples of alternate formats
may include large print, electronic, Braille, audiocassette, etc.
7800 Golden Valley Road I Golden Valley, MN 55427
763-593-8027 I TTY 763-593-3968 1 763-593-8198 (fax) I www.goldenvalleymn.gov
Environmental Commission
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
city 4
go lden
valle
April 26 20 620 PM -
This meeting will be held via Cisco Webex in accordance with the local emergency declaration made by the
City under Minn. Stat. § 12.37. The public may monitor this meeting by calling 1-415-655-0001 and entering
the meeting code 177 393 4642. 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 6:30.
2. Roll Call
Commissioners present: Scott Seys, Debra Yahle, Tonia Galonska, Jim Stremel, Dawn Hill, Shannon
Hansen, Wendy Weirich
Commissioners absent: Felix Fettig
Council Members present: Larry Fonnest
Staff present: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor;
Drew Chirpich, Environmental Specialist;
Story Schwantes, Green Corp Member;
Carrie Nelson, Administrative Assistant.
3. Approval of Agenda
MOTION by Commissioner Galonska, seconded by Commissioner Hill to approve the agenda for April 26,
2021 and the motion carried.
4. Approval of March 22, 2021 Regular Meeting Minutes
MOTION by Commissioner Stremel, seconded by Commissioner Hansen to approve the minutes of March
22, 2021 as submitted and the motion carried.
5. Old Business
A. EC/HRC Environmental Justice
i. Inequity Factors Weighted
1. 75% Social Factors
a. Affordable Housing — 40%
b. Lower Home Values— 25%
c. High Rentership —10%
2. 25% Environmental Factors
a. Less Tree Canopy— 15%
b. More impervious Spaces— 10%
The subcommittee divided the City into 4 areas — NW, NE, SW, and SE — and performed a
field investigation. Findings include:
This document is available in alternate formats upon a 72-hour request. Please call
763-593-8006 (TTY: 763-593-3968) to make a request. Examples of alternate formats
may include large print, electronic, Braille, audiocassette, etc. 6
City of Golden Valley Environmental Commission Regular Meeting
April 26, 2020 — 6:30 pm
N
1. NW — No Immediate opportunities noted. Some greening with new development
along Winnetka possible.
a. Areas in the far NW are both businesses and some residential with close
access to the Medley Hills Park area
b. The area in the east of the quadrant appears to have close access to the
Pennsylvania Woods area
2. SW - Possible projects on private property at far west of quadrant. Better park
access and/or green space at Valley View Apartments also possible.
a. Golden Valley Road/169/Decatur area includes apartments surrounded by
industry with some tree separation; May be opportunity here, but on private
land.
b. Going west from Winnetka to Wisconsin/Boone south of 10th Avenue North
is apartments surrounded by impervious surfaces; Opportunities here to
increase access to Bassett Creek potentially.
c. Calvary Center Cooperative off of Rhode Island has a lot of impervious
surface, but fair number of trees.
Valley View Apartments on Golden Valley Road near Douglas has open areas
conducive to private land projects; Trees surround area, but not very usable;
Of note is Seeman Park across GV Rd.
3. SE -No immediate, easy opportunities noted due to impervious surfaces. Some
green space added to apartment complex facilities may be a possibility.
a. Apartments with a lot of surface area and impervious surfaces.
b. Valley Village Apartments in upper quadrant have access to Luce Line Trail
and Schaper Pond.
c. NOTE: Lower air quality issues in Xenia area.
d. NOTE: Interest from Open Space and Recreation Commission in work in this
area. Work along with them here? Add a small neighborhood park?
4. NE -Limited opportunities noted due to impervious surfaces with the possible
exception of connections to trails and St. Croix Park in upper portion of quadrant.
a. Apartment complexes on St. Croix Ave N with a lot of impervious surfaces
(and shopping center) surrounding the area; Possible longer term connect to
area trails and St. Croix Park.
b. Apartment complexes on Douglas Drive with some impervious surfaces, but
little opportunity.
c. NOTE: Remnant Parcel & Unimproved ROW #113 an opportunity?
iii. Should we add Air Quality Index to the Environmental Factors we're looking at on the maps
using the MPCA Air Pollution Score?
1. Score below 1 considered Good. All of Golden Valley is higher than 1.
a. Northern Part of the City is in the 2.0-2.9 range
b. Further South, near 1-394, is higher 3.0-3.9 and over 4.0 in SLP.
2. Bring to the sub -group to discuss modifying the map to include air quality index.
B. Hennepin County Climate Action Plan
City of Golden Valley Environmental Commission Regular Meeting
April 26, 2020 — 6:30 pm
i. Aims to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 with an interim goal of
reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 45% from 2010 levels by 2030.
ii. Hennepin County's goals are more ambitious than the State of MN's goals and position
Hennepin County as a leader on addressing climate change in the Upper Midwest.
iii. The board has established a new Director of Climate and Resiliency position.
3
MOTION by Commissioner Hill, seconded by Commissioner Weirich to pass a resolution of
support to approve the Hennepin County Climate Action Plan as it is currently drafted and
recommend to the Council they work with Hennepin County to help implement the plan and look
for areas of alignment and partnership and the motion carried.
C. 2020 Annual Report and 2021 Work Plan
Presented to the Council on April 131" at the Council Manager Meeting and they were very
supportive. It was formally received and filed on April 20.
Should there be a small sub -committee formed to explore partnership with area schools.
Maybe figure out as a group exactly what the partnership should be before reaching out to
the schools.
iii. Items from the 2021 Work Plan that should be looked at first:
1. Curbside Recycling and Organics
2. PIE
3. Community Outreach (Environmental Justice/Climate Justice, Schools)
4. Environmental Resources Needs
5. Zero Waste Event
6. New Business
A. Stormwater Permit & Program
The City of GV just resubmitted its MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System)
application to the MPCA. The MS4 Permit allows municipalities and other organizations to
operate storm sewer systems, and outlines requirements for doing so, with an emphasis on
keeping phosphorus and other pollutants out of sewer systems and waterbodies.
1. Now that it's submitted, once accepted by the MPCA it will be posted for public
comments through the State website. The City will share this on the City website
and social media.
ii. Communities now need to take additional measures to track and report all salt use in
municipal operations, train staff on salt use, draft and integrate a pet waste ordinance,
identify, target and reduce bacteria sources, provide more documentation and metrics, and
educate the public more on topics pertaining to water quality.
iii. We have one year to develop and update the stormwater program, including updates to
city code.
B. Program/Project Updates
i. DeCola Ponds SEA School — Wildwood Park Flood Reduction Study
1. A couple rounds of community engagement. Received a lot of good feedback.
2. Working closely with the Bassett Creek Watershed Commission.
3. 3 different concept plans developed based on community input in 2020.
4. Will have a feasibility report within the next couple of months.
5. Flooded Structures
City of Golden Valley Environmental Commission Regular Meeting
April 26, 2020 — 6:30 pm
4
a. During a 10-year event — Reduce flood risk for 3 homes
b. During a 100-year event — Reduce flood risk for 10 homes
6. Some trees going to be "lost," could be transplanted to other areas. Spruce and
Pines were recently planted and could be moved.
7. New trees will be planted in other areas to replace removed trees. Hopefully a 1:1
replacement.
8. Some areas are wetter that will have wetland/shoreland plantings.
9. Prairie habitat is drier down by the school.
10. Challenging to find spaces to create flood storage and lower flood levels in fully
developed cities — GV, New Hope, and Crystal.
11. Comments from the community said save pickleball, wooded hills, sledding hill, and
playground.
12. Benefit for the community and the school with the outdoor educational aspect.
ii. Medley Park Stormwater Improvement Study
1. In the engineering feasibility stage. Working closely with the Bassett Creek
Watershed Commission. Will go to the Watershed Commission in May/June.
2. 3 different concept plans developed based on community input late last fall.
3. Feedback showed people were excited for more water features, diverse ecology and
trail routes in the western portion.
4. Ball field will go away. No dog park being added. More area for flood storage.
Dozens of properties that flood near this park.
5. Improve water quality in Medicine Lake and other bodies of water downstream and
also reduce flood levels for homes nearby.
C. Council Updates
i. Thanks to all the Commission Members who sought reappointment. There will be no new
members in the upcoming year. Council is very impressed with the 2021 Work Plan.
D. Other Business
i. May meeting is traditionally a business meeting with the elections of the Chair and Vice
Chair and reviewing by-laws and doing some re -orientation of values and commitment to
equity.
7. Adjournment
MOTION by Commissioner Yahle, seconded by Commissioner Galonska to adjourn the meeting at
8:24 pm and the motion carried.
ATTEST:
Carrie Nelson, Administrative Assistant Scott Seys, Chair
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Date: May 21, 2021
MEMORANDUM
Physical Development Department
763-593-80301763-593-3988 (fax)
To: Environmental Commission
From: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor
Subject: Partners In Energy— Implementation Plan
On May 4, 2021 the City Council approved the Energy Action Plan and authorized the
memorandum of understanding with Xcel Energy to continue the City's participation in the
Partners In Energy program. The next phase of the program is the implementation phase which
extends over the next 18 months.
Staff has begun its biweekly meetings with the PIE team. Attached is the draft implementation
schedule. Commissioners are asked to review the implementation schedule and come to the
meeting with any questions or comments they may have.
Implementation of the energy action plan will require the assistance of citizen volunteers and
champions and community connectors. Opportunities to assist with events, meetings,
outreach, education, and research will be made available for members of the energy action
planning team, the Environmental Commission, and others in the community. Please consider
your involvement in the plan and any areas that might interest you.
As part of the implementation, staff is meeting with Residential Home Energy Squad program
representatives on May 21. Staff will provide an update to the Commission and may discuss the
City's participation in the program including the buy down of site visits in 2021 and 2022.
GAEnvironmental Commission\Memos\Monarch Pledge & Bee City
2021 Golden Valley Energy Action
Implementation Schedule
Reducing High Energy Cost Burden
GOALS
Strategy 1: Locate High Energy Burden
Identify 20 candidate households per month (240 per year) who may be eligible for any of the programs servings energy -
Households
burdened households. Identification will constitute a request for information requiring a name, address, phone number, or email
address.
Strategy 2: Educate Clients
Engage 20 % of identified candidate households (from Strategy 1) in an education activity providing them vdth information
about the resources and programs available to help them.
Strategy 3: Coordinate Service Delivery
Motivate half of the qualified candidates who seek out additional information (from Strategy 2) to move forward with the help of
a Golden Valley or volunteer coordinator in seeking assistance or scheduling a home service (e.g., Low-income Home Energy
Squad).
Improving Energy Efficiency
2021 2021 2021 Aug 2021 2021 2021 No� 2021 Dec 2021 2022 Feb 2022 Mar 2022 Apr2022
ay
Jun
Jul
Sep
Oct
Jan
NUEL U11IIIIIIII
MUL U11IIIIIIII
Accomplish annual 2.5 % participation increases in key residential energy efficiency programs. Deliver more than half of all
Strategy 4: Conduct Residential Outreach
participants from Golden Valley residents living in homes built before 1970.
Strategy 5: Conduct Business Outreach
Accomplish annual 2.5 % participation increases in key commercial and industrial energy efficiency programs.
Supporting Clean Energy
Strategy 6: Subscription Options
Accomplish a 2.5 % annual increase in kilowatt-hours subscribed to either W indsource or Renewable"Connect each year
between 2021 and 2031.
Encourage growth in selection of net metering among Golden Valley homes and businesses using on -site solar. Motivate 50
Strategy 7: Renewable Energy support
or more of the new solar installations in Golden Valley to use net metering.
Strategy a: Preparing for Electric Vehicles
Support installation of EV chargers at every workplace, shopping, and entertainment destination in Golden Valley. Promote
Golden Valley as an EV-friendly destination. Help Golden Valley electric vehicle sales increase faster than neighboring
communities. Beginning in mid-2022, we will initiate a campaign to motivate businesses to install EV chargers, including clear
direction and assistance as needed to facilitate installation.
XGeelEnergy-
PARTNERS IN ENERGY
An Xcel Energy Community Collaboration
May
Strategy 1: Locate High Energy Burden Households r
Send flyers
home with all
1.1 Outreach to school social workers in
students
Golden Valley will allow us to send messaging
featuring
home with students receiving free or reduced
programs
meal benefits.
including
energy
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burdened
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1.2 Analysis conducted by Golden Valley's
List of 400
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mapping specialist has identified homes in
households.
Golden Valley valued at $200,000 or less that
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are at least 60 years old and have not been
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issued a building permit in 30+ years.
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Strategy 2: Educate Clients
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2.1 Raise awareness of the resources
PiE create
Farmers Market.
Presentation to
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available to help households struggling with
handout and
Story, volunteer
classes/schools
energy burden through outreach techniques;
mailing to market
and market
about energy and
2
including targeted mailings in high likelihood
programs- HES
programs
sustainability.
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neighborhoods, publicity channels through the
and energy
Offer flyers about
City, partnership with local social service
burdened
programs.
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organizations.
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Strategy 3: Coordinate Service Delive
3.1 Help households follow through with help
from Energy Assistance Program by Hennepin
County Community Action Partnership, Home
Energy Savings Programs, or Multi -Family
Energy Savings Programs.
Strate 4: Conduct Residential Outreach
Story creating
4.1 Prioritize outreach to homes based upon
age. (61 % of homes built before 1970)
list of
volunteers to
call on for
events/opportun
ities.
4.2 Promote highest potential residential
Golden Valley
energy efficiency programs: Home Energy
meet with HES
Squad, Refrigerator Recycling, Residential
about paying for
Cooling, Residential Heating. (City of Golden
percentage of
Valley to incentivize participation in Home
visits.
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Energy Squad by paying for a percentage of
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and analog media with help from PiE to share
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newsletters, postcards, handouts, flyers, and
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fabling to publicize programs to engage
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residents.
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5: Conduct Business Outreach
5.1: Prioritize outreach to small commercial
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and industrial businesses to raise awareness
of energy efficiency programs.
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5.2, Promote highest potential business
One -Stop
energy efficiency programs: Cooling
Efficiency shop -
Efficiency, Lighting Efficiency, Multi -family
HVAC and
Building Efficiency, Small Business Lighting.
lighting
5.3 Leverage relationships with community
Economic
Connect with
connectors such as Golden Valley Business
Development
people:
Council, TwinWest Chamber of Commerce,
and Housing
Physical
and Rotary Club to facilitate communications
Manager- Sherrie
Development
with businesses. Perform outreach via
Shokuist
Director, Jeff
newsletters and other reliable channels with
Curtis, Julianne
business lists.
2 of
Strategy 6: Subscription Options
6.1 Conduct an outreach campaign promoting
the benefits of renewable energy
subscriptions. Use City communication
channels and social media and consider a
neighborhood -based challenge to hit target
sign-ups. To help promote the campaign, the
City could consider paying the first month of
the subscription up to a cap or offer a gift card
for every 10 other Golden Valley residents you
refer.
6.2 Launch a student video contest to promote
the benefits of clean energy. Work with
schools and other clubs within the city to
engage youth in promoting renewable energy
and energy efficiency.
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6.3 Conduct a green business award and
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recognition program. Work with the Golden
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Valley Business Council, TwinWest Chamber
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of Commerce, and Rotary Club of Golden
Valley to promote the local businesses and
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investigate financial opportunities.
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6.4 Consider hosting or locating a one -stop
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technical assistance resource for businesses
looking to get started in renewable energy.
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6.5 Start a business mentrnng program,
Qinviting
large businesses using renewab/es to
7
mentor a smaller local firm who's unfamiliar
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with how to get started using renewable
energy.
Strategy 7: Renewable Energy Supp
7.1 Businesses will be approached with a
range of renewable options from which they
may choose. Should they choose on -site
installation, net metering will be recommended
as a way for them to enjoy the benefits of
renewable energy and enhance their
reputation as a contributor to the Golden
Valley Energy Action Plan.
7.2 Partner with building permit office in
Story -Check into
Summer
Summer
Golden Valley to provide materials about net
federal and state
Solstice event
Solstice event
metering to applicants for on -site solar
programs and
to promote
to promote
installation permits. Influence current on -site
rebates. XE
solar
solar
solar homes not participating in
programs. Solar
Solar'Rewards or contract -restricted
potential
independent programs and businesses to
adopt net metering.
Strategy 8: Preparing for Electric Vehicles
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8.1 Through local news and/or social media,
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highlight the eady EV adopters in Golden
Valley and how they use their vehicles. Use
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the stories to address common barriers to EV
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adoption (e.g., where they charge, where they
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bought the vehicle, costs of ownership and
>s
maintenance, etc.)
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6.2 Host an EV parade or ride and drive
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event. Work with local EV owners or other
resources to conduct a ride and drive EV
event in Golden Valley
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Date: May 21, 2021
MEMORANDUM
Physical Development Department
763-593-80301763-593-3988 (fax)
To: Environmental Commission
From: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor
Subject: Commission Re -Orientation
At the business meeting each May staff reviews the orientation materials for Boards and
Commissions including the guiding principles, roles and responsibilities, and the City's equity
plan. Commission members are asked to review the materials and come to the meeting with
questions or comments.
GAEnvironmental Commission\Memos\Monarch Pledge & Bee City
7800 Golden Valley Road I Golden Valley, MN 55427 ir1 ty
763-593-3991 1 TTl 763-593-3968 1 763-593-8109 (fax) I www.goidenvalleymn.gov goldena,,,,
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GUIDING PRINCIPLES
I. General Policy Statement & Objective
The purpose of this document is to establish guiding principles for the Golden Valley
City Council (the "Council") and Golden Valley City Boards and Commissions. These
principles apply to the members of the Council and the Mayor as well as the appointed
members of the City's Boards and Commissions, each of the foregoing being referred to
in this document as a "Member."
II. Values
The City of Golden Valley has determined the following as our core set of values:
• Communication
• Community
• Inclusion
• Integrity
III. Standards of Conduct
• Respect
• Innovation
• Courage
• Accountability
1. A Member must not use his or her official position to secure special privileges or
exemptions for the person or others.
2. A Member must not act as an agent or attorney for another before the Council or
a board or commission in a matter where a conflict of interest exists or may exist.
3. A Member must not knowingly accept or solicit, directly or indirectly, a gift or loan
for himself, herself, or another if this is prohibited by law.
4. A Member may accept compensation or expense reimbursement for the
performance of the person's public duties only from the sources listed below. A
Member must not solicit or accept compensation or expense reimbursement for
the performance of the person's public duties from any sources other than:
a. compensation and expenses paid by the City;
b. compensation and expenses from other employment, if the person
happens to conduct public business while being paid for the other
employment and if the other employment does not interfere with,
influence, or compromise the person's public position; or
c. compensation and expenses paid by another governmental agency or
municipal association to a Member who serves as a City representative for
that agency, but only if the City does not also pay the person for the same
activity.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
5. A Member must not use public money, time, personnel, facilities, or equipment
for private gain or political campaign activities except when:
a. the use is required or authorized by law; or
b. the use is not greater than that allowed for members of the general public.
This paragraph does not prohibit correspondence at any time to individual
residents in response to the resident's specific inquiries.
6. A Member must not disclose to the public, or use for the private gain of self or
others, information that was gained by reason of the official's public position and
that is not public data or was discussed at a closed session of the Council.
Further, a Member must not disclose information received, discussed, or decided
in conference with the City Attorney that is protected by the attorney/client
privilege, unless a majority of the Council has authorized that disclosure.
7. A Member must not enter into a contract with the City, unless in accordance with
law. A Member who has a proprietary interest in an agency or company doing
business with the City must make known that interest in writing to the Council
and the City Clerk.
8. A Member must not intentionally violate a provision of the City Code or the City
ordinances.
9. Council Members are expected to be prepared for Council meetings and
Council/Manager meetings by reading agenda packets and requesting further
research in advance of the meetings.
10. The Mayor and Council Members direct City staff, contract employees, and
consultants only through the City Manager, as established by the requisite
majority vote. At Council meetings, the Council may express concerns and may
provide staff specific direction, provided that the direction is the consensus of the
Council. The City Manager will request further clarification if he/she feels it is
required so there is a clear understanding of what the Council's expectations are
in terms of the actions to be taken by staff.
11. Members shall conduct themselves in such manners as to obey and adhere to
Minnesota Statutes Chapter 13D, the Open Meeting Law.
12. Members' duties shall be performed in accordance with the process and rules of
order established by the Council or the City Code.
13. Public resources that are not available to the general public (e.g., City staff time,
equipment, supplies and/or facilities, etc.) shall not be used by the Members for
private, personal, or political purposes.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
14. It is the responsibility of Council Members to publicly share, with all other Council
Members, information they have received from sources outside of the public
decision- making process, which pertains to a topic under consideration.
Whenever possible, new information or data obtained by Council Members,
pertinent to a topic being discussed, will be distributed through the City Manager
to other Council Members.
IV. Communications
As elected officials, Council Members have a responsibility to communicate information
to the public. Communicating accurate, timely, and professional information is
important to ensuring the quality and credibility of information being provided to the
public.
Public Record: Communications (electronic or written) involving Members are public
records (with a few exceptions as stated by the Minnesota data practices act—
www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hrd/pubs/dataprac.pdf). Communications not considered
public record may still be public information (i.e., email, text messages). Those
interested in copies of these items must file a public disclosure request. Requests for
private data or information outside of the scope of a Member's role should be routed to
the City Manager.
Align With Minnesota Open Meeting Law: Information posted or responded to
should be done in alignment with the open meeting law: (See
www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hrd/pubs/openmtg.pdf). Members should generally act with
caution when using electronic means to communicate with one another. Members who
wish to share information with other Members should do so through the City Manager.
Materials relating to agenda items for City business (including email) must be provided
to the public at the meeting. Email or social media communications shared among
three or more Members should take place at an open meeting. Example of a violation:
A Member posts a comment on a Facebook page about a proposed ordinance. A
second Member comments that they agree and a third Member clicks the "like" button.
Citizen Questions, Comments, and Concerns: It's important that Members direct
citizen questions, comments, and concerns to staff. Doing so ensures requests are
routed to the appropriate staff person and holds accountability that proper follow-up is
made and the task is completed. In addition, since some requests cover multiple
departments there may be a request history that will be useful as staff works to resolve
the issue.
Electronic Communications: Generally, the Golden Valley City Council receives
agenda materials, background information, and other meeting information via email
and/or the list serve. Contact the City Manager if there are questions about these
items.
Social Media: Since social media is an effective and frequently chosen communication
tool among the public, the City of Golden Valley has its own official social media pages.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
Communication Tips for Email and Social Media Public Perception: Members are
public officials representing the City of Golden Valley and its policies and perspectives.
Official Versus Individual Perspectives: Since the public connects City officials to the
City of Golden Valley, it's important to clarify official perspectives from individual
perspectives.
Public information: Any published content, written or electronic (email, for example),
may be considered public information or considered covered under the Minnesota data
practices act. Informal messages not related to a public official's role, such as meeting
notices, reminders, telephone messages, and informal notes, are not public record.
Large Outreach: Information posted on social media is public and is online for a long
time. Both email and social media posts can be quickly shared with other audiences,
making it important to post professional messages and avoid political comments.
Discoverability: Generally, email is removed from the system every three years. Email
is discoverable in litigation, making it important to use it cautiously. When seeking legal
advice or to discuss matters of pending litigation or other "confidential" City business,
ensure emails are sent to only those intended because the attorney -client privilege
protecting the document from disclosure may be waived.
Media Relations - Media Inquiries: Members are strongly encouraged to refer all
media inquiries to the City Manager prior to Council discussion and vote on an item.
After a vote has been taken, individual Members may comment on their decision. It's
understood that individual Member decisions may not be reflective of the Council's
majority vote.
Following these guidelines is important to the democratic process because it helps
avoid creating the public perception that a vote or decision has been made on a topic.
That perception may discourage the public from engaging in the democratic process.
City Manager's Role: The City Manager communicates on the City's behalf in
interviews, publications, news releases, on social media sites, and related
communications. The City Manager is in the best position to provide a response
because many issues involve multiple departments or work may already be in progress.
Many times, a department director will handle interviews and communications on behalf
of the City Manager.
When the media calls about:
Upcoming agenda items, issues, or discussion topics: Wait to provide information
until the topic is voted on. This communicates that a decision has not been made
and allows the public process to work by keeping the topic open for citizen input.
If a Member discusses the issue with media before a decision is made, there is
potential that the public may be confused about the Council's direction. This may
create a public perception that a vote or decision has been made on a topic and
discourage the public from engaging in the democratic process.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
2. Routine or public information (i.e., a meeting time or agenda): Provide media with
the information and notify City Manager.
3. Other information: About potential litigation, controversial issues, an opinion
about a City matter, or if unsure of the type of question, it's strongly
recommended to work with the City Manager on these topics. The City Manager
typically works with staff on these issues and can present the discussion scope
or topic.
V. Identifying and Addressing Conflicts of Interest
So that citizens may have the utmost confidence and trust in the integrity of their City
government, and to protect the City's interest and its citizen's interests, Members must
disclose and avoid conflicts of interest that arise in performing their official duties. To
this end, the below principles provide Members guidance for identifying, addressing,
and disclosing conflicts of interest. This guidance supplements, not supplants, the
responsibilities Members have under law with regard to conflicts of interest. Members
should consult with the City Manager and/or City Attorney with questions or concerns
they may have regarding conflicts of interest (whether the conflicts are real or
perceived, potential or in existence), and not participate in or take any official action on
a matter until such questions or concerns are resolved with the City Manager or City
Attorney.
1. Identifying Legal Conflicts of Interest
A "legal conflict of interest" exists when, in the discharge of official duties, a
Member participates in a governmental decision, action or transaction that:
a. affects the person's financial interests or those of a business with which
the person is associated, unless the effect on the person or business is no
greater than on other members of the same business classification,
profession, or occupation; or
b. affects the financial interests of an organization in which the person
participates as a member of the governing body, unless the person serves
in that capacity as the City's representative.
2. Identifying Financial Interests
A financial interest is any interest, including loans, which may yield, directly or
indirectly, a monetary or other material benefit to the Member (other than
monetary or material benefits authorized by the City in accordance with law). A
financial interest of a Member or Member's employer (other than the City), his or
her associated business, or his or her spouse, domestic partner, parent, sibling
or child, and their employers or associated businesses shall also be considered a
financial interest of the Member. The following assets shall not be considered a
financial interest for purposes of this section:
a. ownership of shares in a diversified mutual fund;
b. membership in a pension plan or employee benefit plan;
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
c. ownership of bonds or publicly traded securities; and
d. ownership of a whole life insurance policy.
3. Addressing Legal Conflicts of Interest
a. When a legal conflict of interest exists, except as permitted by law, a
Member must disclose the potential conflict of interest for the public
record, in the manner described in Section VI below, and refrain from
participating in the discussion and from voting on the matter. To
participate or participation, for the purposes of this document, means
making the decision, taking action, entering into a transaction, providing
advice or a recommendation, introducing, sponsoring, debating, voting on,
approving, and investigating the decision, action, or transaction.
b. A Member shall not participate in making, or attempt to use his or her
position to influence, any City governmental decision, action, or
transaction in which the Member knows or has reason to know that he or
she has a legal conflict of interest.
4. Non -Legal Conflicts of Interest
a. Members may face situations in performing their official duties that raise,
or are perceived to raise, a conflict of interest but which do not fall within
the above description of a legal conflict of interest and are otherwise not a
conflict of interest regulated by law. These types of conflicts are referred
to, for purposes of this document, as "non -legal conflicts of interest."
b. While non -legal conflicts of interest may be different in nature or degree
from a legal conflict of interest and other conflicts of interest regulated by
law, they can nevertheless impair, or give the appearance of impairing, a
Member's independence of judgement and/or harm the City's interests
and the interests of the citizens.
c. The significance of non -legal conflicts of interest often depends on the
facts and circumstances involved in each situation, and thus it is difficult to
establish bright- line rules regarding when such conflicts must be
disclosed and necessitate a Member to refrain from participating in a
matter. Therefore, Members are entrusted to use their best judgement
regarding such situations with the aim of upholding the principles
established under this document and the highest possible standards of
ethical conduct, and with the understanding that public disclosure of non-
legal conflicts of interest, by itself, helps maintain citizens' trust and
confidence in the integrity of City government.
d. To this end, if a Member recognizes that his or her participation may
create a non -legal conflict of interest, he or she should (i) discuss the
matter in advance (to the extent possible) and in confidence with the City
Manager and/or City Attorney regarding the appropriate action to take;
and/or (ii) disclose the conflict in accordance with Section VI below and, if
necessary, refrain from participating in the matter.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
e. Without limiting the foregoing, a Member may participate in a City
governmental decision, action, or transaction involving an organization or
entity that the Member, or his or her partner, spouse, partner, domestic
partner, sibling, or child is an officer, director, board member, or trustee of,
if the Member does not have a legal conflict of interest in the governmental
decision, action, or transaction. However, the Member must disclose his or
her affiliation with the organization or entity as though it were a legal
conflict of interest, in the manner described in Section VI below.
Similarly, a Member may participate in a City governmental decision
involving a person related by family to the Member, other than his or her
parent, spouse, domestic partner, sibling, or child, if the Member does not
have a legal conflict of interest in the governmental decision, action, or
transaction. However, the Member must disclose his or her relationship
with the related person as though it were a legal conflict of interest, in the
manner described in Section VI below.
VI. Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest
If a Member, in the discharge of his or her official duties, recognizes that his or
her participation in a matter would create a legal conflict of interest, or a non-
legal conflict of interest that should or must be disclosed, the Member shall
disclose the conflict of interest as follows:
a. The Member shall disclose the conflict of interest to the City Manager and
his or her fellow Members as soon as he or she becomes aware of the
conflict. If a Member becomes aware of a conflict during a meeting of the
Council or a committee or board, the Member shall immediately disclose
the conflict of interest orally.
b. In the case of a legal conflict of interest, a Member must also prepare, on
a form prescribed by the City Clerk, a written statement describing the
matter requiring action or decision and the nature of his or her conflict of
interest, or as otherwise required by law. In the case of a Council Member,
the written statement shall be distributed to the other Council Members
and Mayor and filed with the City Clerk. Likewise, in the case of a Member
of a board or commission, the written statement shall be distributed to the
other Members of the board or commission and filed with the City Clerk.
After the first time the Member has orally disclosed a conflict of interest
and filed the disclosure form, the Member may subsequently orally
disclose a conflict by referring to the filed form. Because Members may
not attend all meetings, oral disclosure may consist of the written
statement being read into the record by the presiding Member at the first
regular meeting after the form has been filed. All written statements shall
be filed and distributed within one week after the Member becomes aware
of the legal conflict of interest. In the case of non -legal conflicts of interest
that a Member discloses, the Member may file a written statement
regarding the conflict.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
c. If a Member does not participate in any discussion or vote on a matter due
to a conflict of interest, he or she shall be counted present for the
purposes of establishing a quorum to carry on the business of the Council,
board, or commission, but shall be considered disqualified for the purpose
of establishing the number of votes necessary to pass motions or
resolutions.
VII. Hearing
Any person may file a written complaint with the City Clerk questioning a Member's
adherence to the principles stated in Section III through VI above. After reviewing the
complaint, the Council may hold a public hearing only if: (1) a neutral third -party
designated by the City Attorney, advises the Council that the allegations state a legally -
recognized violation of the law or a legally -recognized conflict of interest; or (2) a neutral
third -party designated by the City Attorney, advises the Council that the complaint has
been lodged in good faith and that the alleged violation is related to the accused
Member's role as a Member.
Prior to the hearing, a letter will be sent to the accused Member stating the alleged
complaint. At the hearing, the accused Member shall have the opportunity to be heard.
If, after the hearing, the Council finds a violation of the principles stated in Section III
through VI above, the Council may, by a majority vote, censure the accused Member.
The accused Member shall not participate in the Council's decision to censure.
VIII.Shared Values Statement
I affirm that I believe in and am committed to upholding the values as stated in this City
of Golden Valley Guiding Principles.
Signature
Printed Name:
Date:
Refusal to sign City of Golden Valley Guiding Principles:
Signature
Printed Name:
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
Date:
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Introduction
In late 2016, the City joined the Government Alliance on Race and Equity (GARE) program, sponsored by
the Center for Social Inclusion. GARE is a national network of government working to achieve racial
equity and advance opportunities for all. The City spent 2017 developing a strategic vision and
actionable goals to advance equity and inclusion, both internally and externally within the city.
The City Council adopted the Equity Plan in 2018. In 2019, the City Council appointed a Task Force to
provide recommended implementation action steps based on the City's objectives. The City's equity
plan is considered a living and responsive document. The City regularly updates its Equity Plan with data,
progress, identified needs of the community, and recommendations (adopted by City Council) from Task
Forces/Commissions.
The City recognizes the historical and present disparities perpetuated by its structures, policies, and
procedures burdened by different communities, particularly within Black, Indigenous and People of
Color communities. Consequently, the City is committed to transforming local government to dismantle
barriers, provide resources, and enhance opportunities for all of its residents and visitors.
Elements of the City's Equity Infrastructure
City Welcome Statement
In March 2018 the City Council unanimously voted to adopt a Welcome Statement, declaring our belief
that all individuals regardless of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, immigration status, gender,
gender identity, marital status, age, disability, economic status, sexual orientation, familial status, or
cultural background, are welcome in Golden Valley. The statement reads:
The City of Golden Valley believes in and stands for the values of social equity, inclusion, and
justice.
We embrace diversity and recognize the rights of individuals to live their lives with dignity,
free of discrimination, fear, violence, and hate.
We welcome individuals to Golden Valley regardless of race, color, creed, religion, national
origin, immigration status, gender, gender identity, marital status, age, disability, economic
status, sexual orientation, familial status, or cultural background.
We strive to provide fair and unbiased services and programs, giving opportunities for all.
We are dedicated to being a supportive and united community, strengthened by the diversity
of our residents and visitors.
Our journey has taken us down a path to acknowledge our history, recognize where we are now, and
make changes to enhance our future.
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Just Deeds Coalition
Just Deeds is the name of a project launched by the Golden Valley Human Rights Commission (the
"HRU) to provide free legal assistance to homeowners who want to research and discharge
discriminatory covenants from their property titles. Just Deeds also shares the name with a coalition of
cross -disciplinary organizations whose goal is to acknowledge the harm caused by discriminatory
covenants and actively work to dismantle structural and institutional racism. The Coalition is actively
working to educate Minnesotans of historically racist practices; the deliberate damage they have caused
communities of color and other traditionally marginalized groups of people; and how these systems
directly benefited white persons. Additionally, the Coalition aims to take an active role in identifying
discriminatory systems and devote resources toward creating equity for all persons.
Equity Leadership Team
Outlined in the GARE process, a central part of any agency's commitment to equity should include a
working group tasked with initiating, measuring and reflecting upon practices, policies and procedures in
the name of equity. The City of Golden Valley's Equity Leadership Team is comprised of the M-Team (all
Department Directors and City Manager) with the support of the Equity and Inclusion Manager. The
Equity Leadership Team meets monthly to review the Equity Action Plan, assess progress and
collectively problem solve any obstructions to completion.
Equity Advancement Team
The Equity Advancement Team is a group of self-selected and nominated staff from all levels and all
departments that are committed to personal and professional learning regarding equity, inclusion and
social justice. This team meets monthly and has a yearlong commitment. The purpose of this group is to
act as ambassadors to their colleagues regarding the City's Equity initiatives and help facilitate
conversations and raise questions in the name of equity advancement.
City Council and Board/Commission Initiatives
The City Council and the City Boards and Commissions are dedicated to examining practices and
frameworks to dismantle inequity and barriers. Each board and commission submits an annual equity
action item as part of its ongoing work plans. Additionally, the City Council provides directives to Boards
and Commissions to carry out equity actions. This includes, but is not limited to Resolutions of Support
such as the Convention for the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW); Just Deeds; and
Resolutions condemning practices such as Conversion Therapy.
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Equity Tool
The purpose of the Equity Tool is to evaluate various equity impacts in the decision -making process.
There are five steps in the tool:
1. Set outcomes
2. Determine stakeholders
3. Gather and review stakeholder data
4. Evaluate impact over intent
S. Report back to stakeholders decision and impacts
Equity Decision -Making Tool
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Equity Plan Pillars
The City has erected four key pillars to guide its transformation. The City is committed to:
1. an infrastructure that supports and advances diversity, equity, and inclusion
2. practices that promote economic prosperity for all
3. eliminating barriers and providing unbiased programs and services
4. effective and inclusive community engagement
2021 Equity Action Plan
Each year, the Golden Valley Management Team develops goals to structure and build intentionality for
their department's work for the following 12 months; at least one of these goals relates to the City's
commitment to equity. The following plan outlines the work of the each department in an action plan
for the next year.
Key Pillar: Infrastructure that Supports Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
2021 Action Item Department
Strengthen the City's equity accountability Human Resources
Data & Community Indicators
Performance Measures
• Equity Action Plan
• Create system of data collection measuring
• Individual commitment statements
diversity of applicants and employees by race,
gender, age, educational attainment,
geography
• Transition Rising TIDES Task Force to existing
Human Rights Committee
Check Points
Assignees
❑ Develop or research data systems to
• Human Resources Director
calculate and measure demographic make-
• Equity & Inclusion Manager
up of staff and applicants by 2021
• Supporting Staff: Equity Leadership Team
❑ Develop new structure and functions of
Human Rights Committee by March 2021.
❑ Establish regular Equity Team meetings by
Feb. 2021
❑ Establish Advancement Team and create
meeting agendas and schedules by Feb.
2021
Task Force Recommendations
2020 — The Task Force recommends updating the Equity Plan on a regular basis, consistent with the
needs and input of the community (p. 4)
City of Golden Valley Equity Plan
2021 Action Item Department
Create system of demographic data collection to Human Resources
support equity goals across the City
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Data & Community Indicators
Performance Measures
• Employee demographics
• Data collection system/structure
• Community/resident demographics
• Data collection, synthesis and reporting
• Data -driven decision making
Check Points
Assignees
❑ Determine relevant demographic data to
• Human Resources Director
measure and collect
• Equity & Inclusion Manager
❑ Develop or research data systems to
• Supporting Staff: Equity Leadership Team
calculate and measure demographic make-
up of staff and applicants by 2021
❑ Publish data system and report dates
Task Force Recommendations
2020 — The Task Force recommends the City put into place various opportunities for gathering data (p.
4)
City of Golden Valley Equity Plan
Key Pillar: Practices that Promote Economic Prosperity for All
Action Item Department
Establish framework for inclusive and effective Human Resources
recruitment measures
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Data
Performance Measures
• Recruitment tools
• Optimize recruitment processes, including
• Applicant + employee demographics
employment (career website, onsite
• Mobility data
recruitment, etc), boards + commissions and
• Compensation study results
task force applications
• Job posting language
• Develop comprehensive supervisor training
program including internal and external
• Job duties and responsibilities language
resources and complete implicit bias training
by end of 2021.
• Establish relationships with community
organizations/institutions
Check Points Assignees
❑ Review policies and practices for systemic • Human Resources Director
barriers in hiring, retention, and upward • Equity and Inclusion Manager
mobility
❑ Review enhance recruitment opportunities
within diverse communities (e.g. online
postings, job fairs, and college and high
school relations).
❑ Initiate use of POC job website for
postings
❑ Collect and synthesize demographic data
employee and applicant (employee and
boards + commissions, task force) to
determine growth areas for recruitment by
❑ Conduct implicit bias training for all hiring
managers
❑ Participation in community events for
recruitment
Task Force Recommendations
2020 — The Task Force recommends that the City diversify employee recruitment by updating
recruitment collateral (job postings, job description, interview guides) to emphasize commitment to
inclusivity and review and adjust recruiting practices (p. 11)
City of Golden Valley Equity Plan
2021 Action Item
Department
Develop and provide comprehensive supervisor Human Resources
training program, including internal and external
training resources including implicit bias by end of
2021.
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Data & Community Indicators
Performance Measures
• Recruitment matriculation data
• Increased staff diversity, mobility and
• Staff retention and mobility data
retention
• Training completion and implementation
Check Points
Assignees
❑ Identify supervisor training needs
• Human Resources Director
❑ Research and explore internal and external
• Equity & Inclusion Manager
training resources
• Supporting Staff: Equity Leadership Team
❑ Develop training schedule
❑ Complete training(s)
Task Force Recommendations
2020 — The Task Force recommends The City provide training for all hiring managers on how to
effectively source and recruit talent (p. 10)
2021 Action Item
Increase the number of contracts awarded to
minority owned businesses. Apply one of three
methods at least four projects requiring bids,
quotes or professional services to eliminate
potential procurement barriers
Department
Physical Development
Data & Community Indicators
Performance Measures
• Contracts and vendors awarded
• Expanded outreach to vendors beyond
MNUCP Directory
• Modified project scopes to attract smaller
firms
• Adjusted procedures and requirements that
eliminate barriers
• Dollars spent with minority, woman, vet, -
owned, small, young firms
Check Points
Assignees
❑ Choose at least four contracts for method
• Physical Development project managers
application
• Equity and Inclusion Manager
❑ Develop success indicator for contracts
• City Attorney
awarded
❑ Measure impact of method and compare
outcomes
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Task Force Recommendations
2020—The Task Force recommends The City create a process for reviewing City contracts and RFPs to
eliminate potential biases (p. 7)
2021 Action Item
Department
Review paid on -call firefighter hiring process and Fire Department
work to eliminate barriers/challenges, make
meaningful changes to process and increase
number of applicants by 10 percent
Data & Community Indicators
Performance Measures
Fire Department applications
• Number of applications
• Fire Department hiring process
Check Points
Assignees
❑ Identify barriers and challenges to
• Assistant Fire Chief
application and hiring process based on
. Human Resources Manager
social identity
n Develop new process with data -based
decision making
n Implement changes
n Measure and collect application data
Task Force Recommendations
2020 — The Task Force recommends that the City diversify employee recruitment by updating
recruitment collateral (job postings, job description, interview guides) to emphasize
commitment to inclusivity and review and adjust recruiting practices (p. 11)
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Key Pillar: Eliminating Barriers And Providing Unbiased Programs And Services
Action Item
Department
Implement improvements at one park shelter Parks and Recreation
building to expand physical accessibility to the
building and restroom facilities by December 2021
Data
Performance Measures
• ADA building compliance
• Increased access to buildings and restrooms
for impacted identities (physical ability,
parental status, gender identity)
Check Points
Assignees
❑ Completion of one park shelter for all ADA
• Parks and Recreation Director
requirements
• Park Superintendent
• Golf Maintenance Supervisor
Task Force Recommendations
2020 — The Task Force recommends The City eliminate barriers in programming and facilities in the
areas of inclusiveness, accessibility and appropriateness (p. 15).
2021 Action Item
Research and evaluate language conversion
software, including reviewing current software
packages
Department
Administrative Services
Data & Community Indicators
Performance Measures
• Increased customer satisfaction and
• Utility and implementation of language
engagement with City developed materials
conversion software
Check Points
Assignees
❑ Develop software assessment tool
• Finance Director
❑ Determine community language needs
• IT Department
❑ Choose software by_
❑ Train appropriate staff with software
❑ Communicate software adoption to other
staff
Task Force Recommendations
The Task Force recommends The City use communication tools to reach a wider representation of
people from diverse groups within the Golden Valley community (p. 13)
City of Golden Valley Equity Plan
2021 Action Item Department
Conduct racial profiling study on all traffic stops Police Department
by the Golden Valley Police Department
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Data & Community Indicators
Performance Measures
• Traffic stop
• Racialized traffic stop data and report
• Practice and procedure recommendations
Check Points
Assignees
❑ Train officers in software and data collection
• Police Chief
process
• Police Department
❑ Establish data collection as a part of a traffic
stop
❑ Draft, publish and present report findings
Task Force Recommendations
N/A
2021 Action Item
Draft amendments to provisions of City Code
dealing with zoning of religious institutions
Department
Legal Department
Data & Community Indicators
Performance Measures
• Zoning Code
• Zoning Code implementation and
enforcement
Check Points
Assignees
❑ Audit zoning codes with impacts on religion
❑ Update language to minimize impact
• City Attorney
Task Force Recommendations:
N/A
,021 Action Item
Implement Driver's License Reinstatement
Program
Department
Legal Department
Data & Community Indicators
Performance Measures
• Program participation and outcomes
• Payment of outstanding fees and citations
• Number of participants and completions of
program
Check Points
Assignees
❑ Establish program
• City Attorney
❑ Determine eligible cases
• City Prosecutor
❑ Track completions and reinstatements
Task Force Recommendations
N/A
City of Golden Valley Equity Plan
2021 Action Item
Department
Prepare and present annual prosecution report to Legal Department
Council and City Manager
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Data & Community Indicators
Performance Measures
• Report data
• Prosecution transparency and accountability
• Data -informed practices
Check Points
Assignees
❑ Ascertain which data to collect
• City Attorney
❑ Research existing data sources
• City Prosecutor
n Develop report and communication
• Equity and Inclusion Manager
mechanism
❑ Facilitate presentation to Council + City
Manager
❑ Develop prosecution recommendations
based on findings
Task Force Recommendations
N/A
City of Golden Valley Equity Plan
Key Pillar: Effective and Inclusive Community Engagement
2021 Action Item Department
Establish three new partnerships with community Public Works
organizations to promote Golden Valley Public
Works at local events
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Data & Community Indicators
Performance Measures
• Community knowledge of Public Works
• Increased number of Public Works job
functions
applications
• Public Works job applications
• Pipelines and relationship development within
community
Check Points
Assignees
❑ Initiate contact with organizations related to
• Public Works Director
Public Works
• Public Works Managers
❑ Determine scope of relationship
❑ Plan involvement in local events
Task Force Recommendations
The Task Force recommends the City review and adjust recruiting practices to ensure diverse outreach
by building connections with local school districts about careers in Government (p. 11)
2021 Action Item
Improve comprehensive community
engagement process to measure diversity and
participation by underrepresented groups.
Department
Communications Department
Data & Community Indicators
Performance Measures
• Community/resident participation and
• Event attendance
engagement
• Survey, social media, website engagement
• Community/resident demographic
information
Check Points
Assignees
❑ Understand City demographics
• Communications Department
❑ Determine underrepresented groups
• Equity and Inclusion Manager
n Develop outreach strategies for groups
• Boards and Commission Staff Liaisons
❑ Implement strategies
❑ Measure and collect data
Task Force Recommendations
The Task Force recommends The City develop communication tools to reach a wider representation of
people from diverse groups within the Golden Valley community (p.13)
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DE&I Progress Made
2017
• Plan draft completed (Nov 2017)
• Create a team of leaders within the City and provide them with foundational training on equity,
diversity and inclusion by end
• City Management Team assigned as workforce equity team
• Review Valley Values
2018
• City Council adopted Equity Plan (Jan 2018)
• Researched and proposed affordable housing standards (Jan 2018)
• Designed Equity Workforce Plan
• Completed Respectful Workplace training (Nov 2018)
• Updated employee handbook to remove any gender -specific pronouns; updated nursing mother's
room, and updated dress code and religious accommodations policies (Dec 2018)
• Added written application for individuals without computer access
2019
• Communicated equity plan to community members
• Launched Rising TIDES platform and 11-person Task Force (Jan 2019)
• Hosted first Rising TIDES Public Open Forum (Oct 2019)
• Launched Just Deeds Project (Nov 2019)
2020
• Issued Proclamation Conversion Therapy (Jan 2020)
• Hosted second Rising TIDES Public Open Forum (Mar 2020)
• Rising TIDES submitted official recommendations report to City Council (June 2020)
• Began Equity 101 staff training to all full-time/regular staff
o Communication plan development - all full-time staff looked at Equity Plan and department
goals during Equity 101 training
• Completed Full Compensation and Classification Study
2021
• Completed Equity 101 training to all full-time/regular staff and Paid On -Call Firefighters
• Issued Proclamation in support of CEDAW
Continued/In Progress
• Candidate identification of recruitment location
o Continually review the City's application platform for candidate identification of
advertisement locations
• Collect demographic information
• Employee Policy Review
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o Using an equity lens, continually review the policies and procedures within employee
handbooks across the City.
• Conduct Benefit Review
o Using an equity lens, continually review the policies and procedures within employee
handbooks across the City.
• Inventory of programs, services and facilities and reviewed for potential barriers
• Continue community education and outreach
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Glossary
This glossary is a set of terms adopted by the City to ensure common language and
understanding regarding diversity, equity and inclusion. When discussing the diversity, equity
and inclusion efforts, use these terms and definitions in all contexts:
Accountability: Processes and procedures that ensure the centering of equity in the decision -
making process
Barrier: Social, economic and physical impediments constructed to decrease access to
resources essential for positive life outcomes
BIPOC: An acronym for Black, Indigenous, People of Color
Bias: a mental process that evaluates and classifies others by their appearance and/or
behaviors based on personal schemata. Bias influences our actions, beliefs and attitudes about
others positively and negatively. There are two types of bias in regards to equity and justice:
Explicit: Bias we are aware of and act in the name of
Implicit: Subconscious feelings, perceptions, attitudes and stereotypes developed
over time
Source: US Justice Department
Capacity Building: Exercises and trainings developed to ensure all members of a community
work towards equity
Community Indicator: An impact on a life -outcome influenced by public policy
Disparity: a pattern of disproportionate life outcomes based on a social identity
Diversity: A measurement of individuals' differences from one another in the form of social
identities and lived experiences; all the ways in which people differ. Source: City of Portland
Office of Equity and Human Rights
Equity: Fair treatment, access, opportunity and advancement for all people; one's social
identity cannot predict the outcome. Source: City of Portland Office of Equity and Human Rights
i. Racial Equity: practices and policies to mitigate adverse impacts one's race has on life
outcomes
Equality: Evenly distributed tools and assistance to access resources and opportunities
Inclusion: Systems that allow for access to all spaces regardless of social identity; a variety of
people have power, a voice, and decision -making authority. Source: City of Portland Office of
Equity and Human Rights
Inequality: Unequal access to opportunities and resources
Justice: Fixing the system to offer equal access to both tools and opportunity
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Oppression:
• Personal: thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes about yourself, coworkers, supervisors,
customers, residents, etc. based on their social identity
• Interpersonal: negatively expressed words and actions based on social identity
• Institutional: Golden Valley (or other agency) enforced practices, policies and procedures
that create barriers to resources and opportunities
• Structural/systemic: Golden Valley (or other agency) enforced practices, policies and
procedures created by larger entities (local, state, federal government and agencies)
Racialized Violence: an instance of bodily/mental harm as a result of systemic racism
Social Identity: all of the ways people are grouped and stratified in society e.g. race,
socioeconomic status, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, nation/language of
origin, family structure, age, religion, immigration status, marital status, etc.
Systemic Racism: A collection of institutions that create unequal access to resources and
opportunities
Ineqt
Equity
Justice
City of Golden Valley
Board and Commission Member Orientation
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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City of Golden Valley Structure
---- o_
-------
* City Demographics
• City Council
• City Manager
• City Leadership
City Demographics
• Population - 24,169
• Location —10.5 square miles, located five miles west of
downtown Minneapolis
• Median Age — 45.6
• Race — white 84%, Persons of Color 16%
• Median Household Income - $629500
According to the 2016 Citizen's Survey, 98 % of respondents
rate the quality of life as either "excellent," or "good."
City Demographics
Plan B form
of Government
Organization Chart vahey
Citizens of Boards and Commissions
Golden Valley Board of Zoning Appeals
Civil Service ommission
City Council/ Environmental Commission
HRA Human Rights Commission
Human Services Commission
Open Space & Recreation Commission
City Clerk City Manager Planning Commission
Administrative Communications Fire Human Resources Legal Parks & Physical Police Public Works
Services Recreation Development
City Council
Shep Harris
Mayor
(2023)
Kimberly Sanberg
Council Member
(2023)
Larry Fonnest Maurice Harris
Council Member Council Member
(2021)
(2023)
Gillian Rosenquist
Council Member
(2021)
City Manager
• City Council point -of -contact
• Administers City business
• Assists Council with developing policies
Tim Cruikshank
City Manager • Implements policies and directives
City Leadership Team
Tim Cruikshank Kirsten Santelices
City Manager Human Resources
Director
Sue Virnig Marc Nevinski
Finance Director Physical Development
Director
yr
Maria Cisneros
City Attorney
Cheryl Weiler
Communications
Director
041V
1
Tim Kieffer
Public Works Director
i
Jason Sturgis
Chief of Police
Rick Birno
Parks and Recreation
Director
John Crelly
Fire Chief
Board and Commission Structure
---------------------------------------------------- o_
Current Boards and Commissions
• Bylaws and City Code
Annual Calendar
Meetings
Terms
Current City Board and Commissions
Meet to hear requests for
variances from the zoning code
(which is the City's main form of
land use regulation).
5 regular members
1 student (non -voting)
4th Tuesday, 7 pm
Controls and supervises the
employment, promotion, discharge
and suspension of GV Police
officers.
3 regular members
First Monday in February and as
needed.
Staff Staff
Liaison(s) Liaison(s)
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Myles Campbell Amie Kolesar Jason Sturgis
Planner Planning Assistant Chief of Police
Current City Board and Commissions
Advises and makes
recommendations to the Council in
matters that affect the environment
7 regular members
1 student
4th Monday, 6:30 pm
Staff;
Liaison(s)
Eric Eckman Carrie Nelson
Development and Engineering
Assets Supervisor Assistant
Advises, recommends, and assists
Council in matters of human rights.
7 regular members
2 student
4th Tuesday, 6:30 pm
Staff
Liaison(s)
If
Kirsten Santelices
Human Resources
Director
Current City Board and Commissions
Plans and holds fundraisers and events
to help raise money to meet previously
identified human service needs in the
community. Advises City Council on
allocation of funds.
7 regular members
2 business members
1 student
2nd Monday; 6:45 pm
Staff
Liaison(s)
Brian Erickson
Recreation
Supervisor
0
Planning Commission
Advises, recommends, and assists
Council in matters relating to
planning and growth of the City,
including issues relating to the social,
economic, and physical environment.
7 regular members
1 student (non -voting)
2nd & 4th Monday, 7 pm
Staff
Liaison(s)''
Jason Zimmerman Amie Kolesar
Planning Planning Assistant
Manager
Current City Board and Commissions
Advises, recommends, and assists Council
in policies and plans relating to open
space needs, parks and recreation
programs, trail systems, and Brookview
Golf Course.
9 regular members
1 student member
Rick Birno Sheila Van Sloun
Parks and Recreation Administrative
Director Assistant
Board and Commission Structure
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- f:��
111��Zj -------------------------------------------------------------------
Officers Meeting Packet
• Chair (1 year) • Agenda
• Vice Chair (1 year) • Minutes
• Max 2 consecutive years and
Chair and Vice Chair
Types of Meetings
• Regular
• Special
Board/Commission Terminology
Quorum
• Majority of seated members is required to vote on business items
• Meetings can be held without a quorum, but they cannot conduct
business by taking votes on motions.
Roberts Rules
• Parliamentary procedure
Bylaws
• Governing document — approved by Council
• Reviewed every year by BZA, may propose changes to Council
Open Meeting Law
Meetings must be open to the public and provided advanced notice
Violations occur when a "quorum" of board/commission members meet
and decide business in private
- This also pertains to emailing, phone calls and texting!
Purpose
• Prohibits actions taken at secret meetings
• Ensures the public's right to be informed
• Gives the public an opportunity to present its views
Annual Calendar
� rJanuaMM7 ry
• New member recruitment begins
• Joint Council, Board and
Commission Meeting
• Boards/Commissions begin
submitting annual work plans to
Council
• Reappointment Process Begins
• Annual Board/Commission
Appreciation Dinner
• Reappointments and new member
appointments effective May 1
• Review Commission bylaws (first
meeting in May)
December
• Boards/Commissions conduct
ongoing regular business
Board and Commission Member
Role and Responsibilities
--------------------------------------------------- 0 ----------------------------------------------------
Board/Commission Member Role
Guiding Principles (Expectations/Code of Conduct)
Communication
Follow State Statute
Role of Board/Commission
Role of Board/Commission
Discuss matters within the scope of
the board/commission, as defined by
bylaws and City Code or as directed by
City Council.
Advise the Council by communicating
the viewpoint or advice of the entire
board/commission.
At the direction of the Council, hold
hearings, conduct investigations, and
provide recommendations to Council.
Not Role of Board/Commission
Boards/Commissions do not direct
the work of City staff.
Do not take responsibility for
financial performance of any City
facility or program.
Do not stray from the board/
commission approved work plan,
bylaws, City Code, or Council
directive.
Role of Board/Commission
We will not always agree, but we share the same end goals:
• Provide Council with the best information possible
• Result in smart outcomes for the City!
At annual
strategy session,
City Council sets
action steps
and new policy
initiatives for
upcoming year
Boards/Commis-
sions take cues
from City Council
strategy session
to create annual
work plans
Boards/Comm is-
sions present work
plans to City
Council
If policy/initiative is not
included in annual City
Council action steps,
recommend Council
consider it at
following year's annual
strategy session
Work
Expectations
• Prepare for meetings by reading agenda and previous
meeting minutes
• Attend meetings
• Participate during meetings and any Board/
Commission planned events
• Communicate with staff liaison
• Be respectful of others
Attendance Guidelines
• Members are expected to attend all meetings,
including the annual board and commission joint
meeting
• Staff liaisons track attendance at each meeting
• Each April,
the City
Manager's office
reviews
attendance
records
for the preceding
calendar year
(April -March)
Guiding Principles — Core Values
• Communication
• Community
• Inclusion
• Integrity
• Respect
• Innovation
• Courage
• Accountability
strategic
Development 8
Redevelopment
Downtown study
Facility Needs Study
Affordable Housing
Plan
Narrow Lots Study
ORGANIZATIONAL PRIORITIES
Effective Infrastructure Flnonclul Community
Govemance Maintenance & WOMWSS Atfalrs
Enhancement
GOING ACTION STEPS
Bike and Pedestrian
Plan
Infrastructure
Renewal Plan
MetrO Blue Line LRT
Pavement
Momagerriont Plan
DeCola Ponds
Stormwater Project
Hwy 55 BRT
Hwy SS/Douglas Df
underpass
Debt Reductlon Rising TIDES
plan
Greenstein Cities
Organics Collection
Build strategic Pursue converflon
alliances to promote therapy ban.
a reduction In the
Minnesota Fiscal
Disparities Tax
formula to 30
percent.
CITY COUNCIL A
Proceed with
Improve Improve traffic
Downtown Study/
communication 5orety,
City Fac linty Needs
with residents and
study.
businossos through
both exist)ng and
new Chan nets.
Guiding Principles — Standards of Conduct
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 0 ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Board/Commission members may not:
• use his/her position to secure special privileges or exemptions
• act as an agent or attorney for another before the Council
• accept or solicit a gift or loan for himself/herself or another
• use public money, time, personnel, facilities, or equipment for private gain
or political campaign activities
• disclose to the public information that was gained by reason of the
official's public position and that is not public data
• disclose information received, discussed, or decided in conference with
the Council's or Board's attorney that is protected by the attorney/client
privilege
• enter into a contract with the City of Golden Valley, unless authorized by
law
• intentionally violate a provision of the City Code or the City ordinances
Written Record, Communication Methods
• Meeting Minutes
• Staff Report (written by Staff)
• Annual Report/Work Plan
• Joint Council, Board, and Commission meetings
• Official City communications — City Staff and Council
• Media Requests
• T.V. Spots
• Social Media
• City Website
0 Marketing and Graphics
Thank you for your service!
city of
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BYLAWS va
Environmental Commission
Article I: Purpose, Mission, and Duties
The Environmental Commission shall be an advisory commission to the City Council on matters relating to
the environment and human health. The Commission shall:
• develop and make recommendations to educate the public on environmental regulations, policies,
practices and tools
• develop and make recommendations as an advisory review body for amendments to or revisions of
the City's Surface Water Management Plan and provide advice as requested by the Council on other
city programs and initiatives
• review and make recommendations regarding the city's existing environmental ordinances, policies,
and guidelines
• develop and make recommendations on management practices for the City's nature areas, public and
private ponding areas, and other such city -owned properties as directed by the City Council
• develop and make recommendations regarding waste reduction, recycling, and organics/composting
• review and make recommendations on the City's resilience and sustainability policies and actions to
adress climate variations
• participate, as directed by the City Council, in local activities initiated by other public and quasi -public
agencies regarding environmental issues
• advise and recommend such other functions or procedures as may be assigned to them by the City
Code or the Council
Article II: Membership, Appointments, Terms, and Officers
A. Membership
The Commission shall consist of seven regular members, and one voting youth member. Regular members
shall be residents of the City. Youth members shall live or attend school within Golden Valley, the
Robbinsdale Area District or Hopkins School District and be enrolled in school grades 9 through 12. A
vacancy shall be deemed to exist if a member ceases to meet the residency requirements.
B. Appointments and Terms
Appointments are made effective May 1 of each year. The Council shall appoint regular members of the
Commission for three-year staggering terms. Youth members shall be appointed for a one-year term. The
terms of Commission members shall be fixed and determined at the time of appointment by the governing
ordinance. Emphasis in appointments will be made based on knowledge of environmental issues and their
relationships to the natural environment and the quality of life in the City. The City Council shall appoint
the members of the Commission and to fill vacancies for unexpired terms.
C. Officers
The Commission shall elect officers of Chair and Vice -Chair from the Commission membership by its voting
members at its regular annual meeting, (no later than the second meeting after May 1 in each year). The
Chair and Vice Chair positions rotate, and members may only serve two consecutive years as the Chair or
Vice -Chair. Should the office of Chair or Vice -Chair become vacant, the Commission shall elect a successor
from its membership at the next regular meeting and such election shall be for the unexpired term of said
office. Officers may also delegate the duties of their position to other Commissioners as deemed
appropriate by the Commission.
Amended and approved June 2, 2020
BYLAWS — Environmental Commission
Chair responsibilities include:
• work with staff liaison to develop meeting agendas
• conduct and preside at all meetings in a productive and time -efficient manner
• ensure the Commission conducts its activities within the stated mission and bylaws of the
Commission
• appoint Commissioners to subcommittees
• monitor and ensure the progress of the Commission
• report to the City Council
Vice -Chair responsibilities:
• perform the duties of the Chair in the absence or incapacity of the Chair
• perform all other duties as prescribed by the Commission
Article III: Meetings and Attendance
A. Meetings
All meetings of the Commission shall be conducted in accordance with the Minnesota Open Meeting Law
and City Code. This means all business and discussion occurs at a meeting which has been posted and is
open to the public.
The presence of a majority of all regular members currently appointed to the Commission shall constitute
a quorum for the purpose of conducting its business and exercising its powers and for all other purposes.
In the event a quorum is not reached, a smaller number of members may meet to have informal
discussion, however, formal action shall not be taken and must be reserved for such time as when a
quorum of the Commission is reached. A quorum of the members should not discuss Commission business
by email, forms of social media, telephone, or informal meetings. Commission meetings may be cancelled
by the staff liaison if there are no items on the agenda for discussion.
The proceedings of meeting should be conducted using standard parliamentary procedure.
Regular Meeting
The regular meeting of the Commission shall be held on the fourth Monday of the month at City
Hall at 6:30 pm. The Commission may, by a majority vote, change its regular meeting dates for any
reason provided proper public notice of the changed meeting is provided.
Annual Meeting
The Annual Meeting of the commission shall be a regular meeting, typically the first meeting after
May 1 of each year, at which time elections will be held.
iii. Special Meetings
A special meeting may be called by the Chair or whenever three members request the same in
writing. Staff shall give notice to each commissioner, at least three days prior to any special
meeting, of the time, place, and purpose of the meeting.
Amended and approved June 2, 2020
BYLAWS — Environmental Commission
B. Attendance
Members are expected to attend all meetings. If a member is unable to attend a meeting, they should
contact the staff liaison, who will inform the chair. If a quorum cannot be attained, the meeting will be
canceled. Staff liaisons will track attendance at each meeting. Each April, the City Manager's office will
review attendance records for the preceding calendar year (April -March) and send a standardized letter of
warning to any member that has missed:
• two consecutive or three total meetings for groups that meet once a month; or
• two consecutive or five total meetings for groups that meet twice a month.
Because attendance is so important to the work of the City's boards and commissions, the City Manager
may ask the member to explain the reasons for their absences. If circumstances (other than health
circumstances) prevent the member from committing to consistently attend future meetings, the member
may be asked to step down. If the member's attendance does not improve after receiving a warning, the
Council may take action to remove the member.
Article IV: Rules
A. Recordkeeping
All minutes and resolutions shall be in writing and shall be kept in accordance with City procedures,
Minnesota Statute and Rules regarding preservation of public records and the Minnesota Data Privacy Act.
B. Work Plan
The Commission will draft an annual work plan that details activities and projected timelines for the
upcoming year.
• The Chair may appoint Commissioners to be primarily responsible for each work plan activity.
• The Commission may establish subcommittees to oversee work plan activities. The
subcommittees will be chaired by Commissioners appointed by the Chair.
• The Commission's work plan will be submitted to the City Council, typically during the first
quarter of the calendar year. The Chair and/or Commissioners will attend a Council/Manager
meeting to discuss the annual work plan with the City Council.
• The Commission's work plan must be agreed upon by the City Council.
C. Annual Report
The Commission shall submit an annual report to the City Council summarizing the past year's activities.
The report may highlight information the Commission feels appropriate to convey to the City Council.
D. Performance of Duties
Commissioners are expected to adequately prepare for meetings. Commissioners unable to complete an
assigned task should notify the commission chair or subcommittee chair as soon as possible. The
Commission staff liaison may ask the City Council to review a Commissioner's appointment based upon its
assessment of significant non-performance of duties.
Article V: Amendments and Revisions
The Commission will review these bylaws no later than the second meeting after May 1 every three
years. Members may present recommendations for changes and amendments. These bylaws can be
altered or amended at any regular monthly Commission meeting with a majority of members present,
provided that notice of the proposed changes and amendments is provided to each member at least 10
business days before the meeting. The Council must review and approve any changes to, and has final
authority regarding, these bylaws.
Amended and approved June 2, 2020
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Date: May 21, 2021
MEMORANDUM
Physical Development Department
763-593-8030 / 763-593-3988 (fax)
To: Environmental Commission
From: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor
Subject: School Outreach & Engagement
The Commission's 2021 work plan includes an action involving community outreach with local
schools.
Community Outreach
Use the Commission's $3,500 budget toward one or more of the following efforts:
o explore and develop a partnership with local schools to deliver a student project, product, or
service in the City
GreenCorps member Story Schwantes and Chair Seys will share what they've learned so far in
their efforts to contact school representatives and peer cities.
To aid in the conversation, below is information from the energy action plan and the
Commission's 2021 work plan ideas brainstorming sessions.
Energy Action Plan
Strategy 6.2 - Launch a student video contest to promote the benefits of clean energy. Work
with schools and other clubs within the city to engage youth in promoting renewable energy
and energy efficiency.
Work Plan Ideas
• Student environmental project contest where a project idea with an action plan is submitted. The
winner would receive a predetermined amount of funds from the EC's small budget & a
partnership with the City (department to be determined depending on project) to complete the
project as well as the project being documented thru GV's media channels
• School or Student Challenge
• Work with Hopkins Schools Environthon group
• Host an annual art show @ Brookview &/or City Hall with an environmental theme. If a contest the
winner could receive a small prize from the EC small budget & an "article" communicated thru GV's
media channels.
Following discussion, the Commission is asked to identify which partnership opportunities it
might want to pursue during the 2021-2022 school year.
GAEnvironmental Commission\Memos\Monarch Pledge & Bee City
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Date: May, 2021
MEMORANDUM
Physical Development Department
763-593-80301763-593-3988 (fax)
To: Environmental Commission
From: Story Schwantes, GreenCorps Member
Subject: GreenStep Cities Step 5 Metric 11
The City is completing the GreenStep Cities Step 5 Waste Water topic area.
Core topic areas
• Transportation Modes and
Miles
• Open Space, Parks, and Trees
• Stormwater
• Waste Water
• City Buildings and Lighting
• Renewable Energy
• Land Use
Optional topic areas
• City Fleets
• Infrastructure for Biking and
Walking
• Car, Transit, and Bike Options
• Surface Water
• Green Buildings
The City has begun offering the EyeOnWater tracking program to help reduce waste water
among businesses and residents. EyeOnWater allows customers to not only view, but understand
their water usage easily throughout their billing cycle with consumption graphs. It also provides
the opportunity to track usage and establish alerts to detect high usage caused by a leaky toilet,
sprinkler system, or something similar. After discussion staff requests that the Commission
consider making a motion to approve the inclusion of the EyeOnWater tool in the City's
GreenStep Program Wastewater reporting.
GAEnvi ron mental Commission\Memos
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Date: May 21, 2021
MEMORANDUM
Physical Development Department
763-593-80301763-593-3988 (fax)
To: Environmental Commission
From: Eric Eckman, Environmental Resources Supervisor
Subject: Environmental Resources Needs
The Commission's 2021 work plan includes an action involving the resources needed to carry
out the City's environmental efforts.
• Resources
Explore and understand the resources available and needed to implement the City's environmental
goals, initiatives, plans, programs, and projects.
The goal of this meeting is to begin a conversation, ask questions, and identify information the
Commission would like to explore in order to understand and assess the resources needed to
implement the City's environmental efforts.
GAEnvironmental Commission\Memos\Monarch Pledge & Bee City
PROGRAM/PROJECT UPDATES — May 2021
SUSTAINABILITY
GreenCorps
The City was recently notified that it will be hosting another GreenCorps member for the 2021-2022 service
term. The member will mainly be working on implementing the City's Energy Action Plan, and will also help
with roll out of the City's new Organics Recycling program.
WATER RESOURCES
Following are updates on the City's current stormwater improvement projects.
DeCola Ponds: SEA School-Wildwood Park Flood Reduction Study
The engineering feasibility study is being conducted by the Bassett Creek Watershed Management
Commission (BCWMC) in close partnership with the City of Golden Valley. Concept plans were developed and
updated based on input provided by stakeholders during the planning study in 2020. Stakeholders include the
neighborhood, SEA school, park users, community members, and the Open Space and Recreation Commission.
Visit the protect webpage for more information. On May 20 the BCWMC heard a presentation on the project,
provided comments, and recommended approving the study at its June meeting, with Concept 3 Wet Meadow
as the preferred option to move forward for project design this fall. A public hearing to consider ordering the
project is anticipated for late summer. More public engagement would take place this fall and winter.
Medley Park Stormwater Improvement Study
An engineering feasibility study is being conducted by the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission
(BCWMC) in close partnership with the City of Golden Valley. Concept plans were developed based on input
provided by stakeholders during the virtual open house in late 2020. Stakeholders include the neighborhood,
park users, community members, and the Open Space and Recreation Commission. Visit the project webpage
for more information. On May 20 the BCWMC heard a presentation on the project and provided questions and
comments for staff to consider. The updated feasibility study will be brought back to the BCWMC in June for
consideration of approval and selection of a preferred concept. If approved, a public hearing to consider
ordering the project is anticipated for late summer. More public engagement would take place this fall and
winter.
Pennsylvania Woods Nature Area
The Pennsylvania Woods Habitat Restoration Project has moved towards the installation phase, with the site
prep burn occurring the week of May 10th and native seeding occurring immediately after. The site will have
three years of subsequent maintenance to ensure that invasive species are adequately managed.
Briarwood Nature Area
The project is set to commence this spring. It will be similar to the Bassett Creek Nature Area and Pennsylvania
Woods Habitat Restoration projects, with invasive species removal and subsequent native seeding.
Restoration efforts will also be accompanied by three years of vegetative management.