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Home My WebLink Aboutweekly notes July 15 2016 i, Memo rt"" TO: City Council Members FROM:Eric44APdmiiator WEEKLY NOTES— July 15m,2016 LISTING OF UPC0MING MEETINGS THRU SEPTEMBER 2016 Zoning I Development Items 1. The City has not received any new applications. 2. Staff has sent two"temporary signage"enforcement letters to two firms using temp.banners as its permanent signage—see enclosed. 3. The County Survey and Land Management Office is moving to the new Public Works Building. See Enclosed. This is the location developers/applicants secure mailing labels for their submissions to the City.The City utilizes this County data as it is impartial and supposedly would have the best updated data on ownership. ST.Crook River Crossing July 131h news release. Other Items • I have enclosed a copy of the letter sent by STANTEC to homes that continue to have lawn restoration issues from the 2015 Street Reconstruction.Staff has continued to engage the contractor A-1 to keep addressing these issues and which appear to be doing so.Homeowners have been asked to assist with watering such grass and monitoring where they can.This will remain a warranty item to ensure proper grass restoration. • VBWD—Meeting Agenda for 7/14/16 • Rep. Kathy Lohmer did supply a letter of support to the OPH Police Department regarding their obligations and duties. See Enclosed. • Council Member Dougherty did provide a communication from the Professional Association of Innkeepers International(PAII) discussing the Air B&B type facilities and concerns expressed from three United States Senators to the Federal Trade Commission.It is just background information. Mayor McComber provided: 1. METRO CITIES NEWS—for 7-15-16 2. Information regarding the MN Transportation Conference—March 1-2,2017 3. A draft of a communication being circulated for area Mayors to endorse--looking to make a unified statement about reactions and next steps from the recent Falcon Heights incident. 4. Invitation from the US Army Corps- for various programs and assistance they can offer—Event is Aug.5th,2016 5. Copy of a letter from the City of Becker-relating to recent legislative actions and discussions regarding the Coalition of Utility Cities and Electric Producing entities and the additional role of solar gardens. Please call me at any time if you have questions...651-253-7837 1 of 34 CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL & COMMISSIONS MEETINGS & WORKSHOPS JULY/AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 Thursday, July 14 7:00 p.m. Planning Commission Meeting (Council Chambers) Monday, July 18 7:00 p.m. Parks Commission Meeting (Council Chambers) Tuesday, July 26 5:30 p.m. City Council Budget Worksession (Conference Room) 7:00 p.m. City Council Meeting (Council Chambers) Tuesday, August 2 4:30 6:30 p.m. Party in the Park (Brekke Park) Thursday, August 11 7:00 p.m. Planning Commission Meeting (Council Chambers) Monday, August 15 5:30 p.m. City Council Budget Worksession (Conference Room) 7:00 p.m. Parks Commission Meeting (Council Chambers) Tuesday, August 23 7:00 p.m. City Council Meeting (Council Chambers) Thursday, September 8 7:00 p.m. Planning Commission Meeting (Council Chambers) Tuesday, September 13 6:00 p.m. City Council Budget Worksession (Conference Room) 7:00 p.m. City Council Meeting (Council Chambers) Monday, September 19 7:00 p.m. Parks Commission Meeting (Council Chambers) Monday, September 27 6:00 p.m. City Council Budget Worksession (Conference Room) 7:00 p.m. City Council Meeting (Council Chambers) 2 of 34 0 City of Oak Park Heights 14168 Oak Park Blvd. N. Phone:651.439.4439 P.O. Box 2007 Fax:651.439.0574 Oak Park Heights, MN 55082 July 13,2016 HAND-DELIVERED Owner/Manager CrossFit Workhouse 5610 Memorial Ave. N.,#4 Oak Park Heights, MN 55082 Re: Building Banner-Signage To Whom It May Concern: Please be advised that City Ordinance 401.15.G.establishes regulations for signage, both permanent and temporary within the City. This ordinance is known as the zoning ordinance and can be found in its entirety on the City's webpage at www.cityofoakparkheights.com. The business has had banners placed at its exterior walls,since its opening,which has been serving as its business sign. City Ordinance does not qualify banners as a wall or permanent sign. With this letter you are directed to immediately obtain a special event permit for temporary signage at the business. Additionally, if you wish to display signage on the building wall—and your landlord approves you to do so—you will need to apply for a permanent sign permit for your business signage. For your convenience, I have enclosed Ordinance 401.15.G.7 Special Event,and a special event permit application for your use;there is no charge for the permit. Also enclosed are Ordinance 401.02.13 Sign Related(Definitions)and Ordinance section 401.15.G.8.d that sets forth the signage allowance for your zoning district of B-3. Please obtain you special event permit prior to July 30 2016 If you opt to not obtain one the banners shall be removed no later than July 30, 2016. 1 am happy to meet with you to discuss signage and address any questions you may have Please feel free to email me anytime. Sincerely, l , Ju a ultman, Building Official Plan ing&Code Enforcement Enclosures c: Eric Johnson,City Administrator 3 of 34 City of Oak Park Heights 14168 Oak Park Blvd.N. Phone:651.439.4439 P.O.Box 2007 Fax:651.439.0574 Oak Park Heights,MN 55082 July 13, 2016 HAND-DELIVERED Jeff and/or Lisa or Manager Liftbridge CrossFit 5525 Memorial Ave. N., Ste. 1 Oak Park Heights, MN 55082 Re: Building Banner-Signage Dear Jeff and/or Lisa or Manager: Please be advised that City Ordinance 401.15.G.establishes regulations for signage, both permanent and temporary within the City. This ordinance is known as the zoning ordinance and can be found in its entirety on the City's webpage at www.citVofoakparkheights.com. The business has had banners placed at its exterior walls,since its opening,which has been serving as its business sign. City Ordinance does not qualify banners as a wall or permanent sign. With this letter you are directed to immediately obtain a special event permit for temporary signage at the business. Additionally, if you wish to display signage on the building wall—and your landlord approves you to do so—you will need to apply for a permanent sign permit for your business signage. For your convenience, I have enclosed Ordinance 401.15.G.7 Special Event,and a special event permit application for your use;there is no charge for the permit. Also enclosed are Ordinance 401.02.8 Sign Related(Definitions)and Ordinance section 401.15.G.8.d that sets forth the signage allowance for your zoning district of B-3. Please obtain you special event permit prior to July 30, 2016. If you opt to not obtain one,the banners shall be removed no later than July 30, 2016. 1 am happy to meet with you to discuss signage and address any questions you may have Please feel free to email me anytime. Sincerely, Julie Itman, Building Official Planni g&Code Enforcement Enclosures I-- , I L, , &Ll ,, ," - I q l 1 C-�4 Cl! 4 of 34 Survey and Land Management is moving! New office location effective Monday July 25, 2016: Public works Building (North Shop) 11660 Myeron Road North Stillwater, MN 55082 Same phone: 651-430-6875 www.co.washin,gton.mn.us/surveyo Wa4ii*ngtm County Notice: To accommodate this move, our office will be closed on Friday July 22, 2016. Thanks for your cooperation. 5 of 34 Survey and Land Management is moving New office location starting Monday July 25, 2016 _ New Location 61 120TH ST N Public Works Building (North Shop) 11660 Myeron Rd N 2 Stillwater, MN 55082 s1 -County Surveyor -Survey Records and Maps -Plat Approval/Signature -Parcel Searches -Zoning z W a w Through Town W o _"J (7 Miles) z z z 55 z z c9 a o DELLWOOD RD N 1-0 co pELLWOOD RD N o Major Roads (ll Miles) ti m z z cn LU si Q z c� Z z OLIVE ST W,. a Government Center: CHURCHILL ST w 149462nd St N AW ToSCALE Stillwater,MN 55082 o �v � fIJ n Wa4ftrn1 62N � O Stillwater f Minnesota / C1� k C z � 0 Eric Johnson From: *DOT_Stcroixcrossing <StCroixcrossing.dot@state.mn.us? Sent: Wednesday,July 13,2016 2:28 PM Subject: Crews cast final segment for St.Croix Crossing July 13 stcroic CROSSING Kristin Calliguri,MnDOT Diana Maas,WisDOT Office 651-366-4272 Office 715-635-4968 Cell 651-503-0637 Cell 715-828-9471 kristin.calliguri@state.mn.us diana.maas@dotwi.gov News Release July 13,2016 Crews cast final segment for St. Croix Crossing July 13 Pier 10 stay cable installation begins STILLWATER, Minn.—Workers at the St.Croix Crossing on-site casting yard, located near the Highway 36/Highway 95 intersection,cast the final segment Wednesday,July 13. Since Summer 2014,crews have produced nearly 330 pre-cast segments at the on-site casting yard.These segments are being used for the approach ramps and bridges on Minnesota land and are smaller than the river bridge segments, being cast at Grey Cloud Island. By casting the segments and then lifting them into place,the contractor maintains quality and consistency among the key components of the bridge.The process also saves money because only a few segments will need to be"cast in place,"which requires custom forms and steel. Other St.Croix Crossing bridge construction highlights include: • Crews began stay cable installation at Pier 10 on July 6.Stay cable installation is either underway or complete at all five river piers. • Crews have placed three of the four final segments that make up the bridge deck at Pier 8,closest to Minnesota. The fourth segment will be erected at Pier 8 after all segment placement is complete at Span 8 between Pier 7 on Minnesota land and Pier 8 in the river. Potential flood impacts: According to the National Weather Service,the St.Croix River could crest 10-feet higher than the normal water level. if this happens the contractor will follow the flood management plan and move all equipment and materials away from the dock walls,out of the flood zone.Work will continue on the bridge regardless of the river level. 1 7 of 34 Stay connected,ask questions or provide comments to the St.Croix Crossing project team: Visit the project web site Sign-up for weekly email updates Call the hotline at 1-855-GO-CROIX(1-855-462-7649) Like us on Facebook - Follow us on Twitter @stcroixcrossin� - Stop by the office at 1862 Greeley St.S. in Stillwater. Hours are 8 a.m.to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. 2 8 of 34 . City of`� Stantec Oak Park Heights CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS,MN NOTICE FOR LAWN SEED CARE 8 MAINTENANCE 2015 STREET RECONSTRUCTION As you are likely aware, the 2015 Street Reconstruction Project is nearly complete in your area. After construction activity last fall, the contractor placed a hydro-seed mixture (bright green spray) in the boulevard to restore vegetation. This particular spray contains grass seed, nutrients and minerals to help stimulate the re-growth and restoration of your lawn. Inspections have brought to light that some locations need to be readdressed this year due to grass seeds not germinating as well as it should have. You are receiving this letter because your lawn will be reseeded and fertilized before mid-June. Like any form of landscaping or plantings, this seeded area must be well-maintained in order to help it survive and control the growth of weeds. First and foremost, keep foot and lawn equipment traffic off the newly seeded areas as much as possible! The Lawn should be watered after approximately 3-4 weeks when seed germination and Visible growth of the areas has been established-about 1 inch each week, for best results water in the morning. Please note that hot weather may require more frequent watering, and areas that are sloped may need a longer/slower watering time because water drains faster on slopes. As soon as your lawn grows to 3 '/2 inches, you should start to mow your lawn to promote growth and increase thickness. The lawn should be mowed every 7-10 days, and should be set at a height of 3 inches. Remember to bag the clippings-DO NOT rake newly-seeded lawns. Approximately 6-7 weeks after the seed is applied, the areas may need to be fertilized by the home owner in order to prevent discoloration.Watering and maintenance of the newly seeded lawns by the home owners are Imperative to its successful growth. Your sincere effort to maintain the new seed will likely decrease the amount of time to achieve a fully restored lawn. If you have questions or comments, please call the Project Hotline at 651-604-4727, or Oak Park Heights City Hall at 651-439-4439. 9 of 34 Stantec Consuling Services Inc. 2335 Highway 36 West St.Paul MN 55113 Tel: (651) 636-4600 Stantec Fax: (651)636-1311 June 7,2016 Mr.Brad Nielsen A-1 Excavating, Inc. P.O.Box 90 Bloomer,WI 54724 Re: 2015 Street Reconstruction-Seeding Warranty Work City of Oak Park Heights, MN Stantec Project No. 193801994D Dear Mr. Nielsen, A review of the grass seed establishment on the 2015 Street Reconstruction indicates there are some problem areas which are outlined below and will need to be addressed: 1) 6120 Oren Ave-weeds are prevalent and no grass is growing 2) 6211 Perkins-seed is not germinating 3) Inside and outside comers of Perkins and Upper 61st-grass is not growing 4) Rain garden on Upper 61 st-no growth under erosion blanket 5) 15269 Upper 61 st-no growth down the hill around water service 6) 6218 Perkins-patch with no growth on north side of driveway 7) East side of Paul,south of Upper 6111-spotty growth around hydrant 8) West side of Paris,south of Upper 61 sr-spots with no growth 9) East and west side of Paris at 6175 Paris-spots with no growth 10) 15048 62nd-no growth around rain garden 11) 15112 62nd-lack of growth around rain garden 12) West side of Panama-bare in some locations 13) Northeast comer of Panama and 62nd-some bare spots 14) 15018 Panama-weeds are prevalent and lack of grass growth in spots 15) 6399 Panama,west side of property-spots not growing 16) 6307 Panama-spots not growing 17) 6315 Peacan,north side of drive-bare spots 18) 15239 63rd-thin grass growth around rain garden 19) 15242 63rd,around driveway apron-bare spots 20) 15221 63rd,along curb-bare spots 21) 15194 63rd-spots not growing around rain garden 22) 6286 Paris-thin grass growth in spots 23) 15051 631d-thin grass growth east of driveway and along curb 24) 15041 631d-bare around driveway apron 25) 15056 63rd-thin grass growth throughout 26) 15070 63rd-thin grass growth throughout 27) Northeast comer 63rd and Paris-thin grass growth throughout 28) 15220 63rd-thin grass growth in spots 29) 15042 Upper 63rd-bare on west side of driveway and spots in yard 30) 15100 Upper 63rd-bare around hydrant and rain garden 31) 15158 Upper 63rd-thin grass growth throughout 32) 6367 Paris-thin grass growth throughout 33) 15200 Upper 63rd-grass is thin in spots 34) 15224 Upper 63rd-grass is thin in spots Design with community in mind 10 of 34 June 7,2016 Reference: 2015 Street Reconstruction-Seeding Warranty Work Page 2 of 2 35) 15244 Upper 63rd-grass is thin in spots 36) 6340 Peacan-grass is thin in spots 37) 6337 Paris-grass is thin in spots 38) 15087 Upper 63rd-patches without grass 39) 15083 Upper 631d-patches without grass 40) 15055 Upper 63rd-grass is thin in spots 41) 6337 Panama-patches without grass 42) 15018 64th-weeds are prevalent and patches without grass 43) 15044 64th-grass is thin in spots and patches without grass 44) 15076 64th-grass thin 45) 15082 64th-grass thin 46) 15092 64th-grass thin around rain gardens 47) 15098 64th-grass thin 48) 6435 Paris-grass thin 49) 15158 64th-grass thin 50) 15174 64th-no grass in spots 51) 15196 64th-east side of drive,no grass growth 52) 15218 64th-grass thin 53) 15242 64th-grass thin 54) 6425 Peacan-grass thin 55) 6350 Peacan-grass thin on hill on Peacan and north side of property 56) 15225 64th-grass thin 57) 15209 64th-grass thin 58) 15191 64th-grass thin 59) 15169 64th-grass thin 60) 6399 Panama-grass thin 61) 15115 64th-grass thin 62) 15067 64th-grass thin 63) 15051 64th-grass thin around rain garden and near tree;no grass in spots 64) Green space north of Peacan and 64th-grass thin The City is concerned about these locations and needs to see these items addressed by June 17, 2016,as the optimum seeding season is quickly coming to an end and residents are overwhelmingly voicing their concerns. If you have any questions or would like to discuss this matter in greater detail, please call me at 612-875-2430. Sincerely, STANTEC CONSULTING SERVICES INC. Lucas J.Miller Copy: Eric Johnson,City of Oak Park Heights Andy Kegley, City of Oak Park Heights Lee Mann,Stantec Dalqn Vfh community in mine, 11 of 34 f l Valley Branch Watershed District It 16 Regular Meeting#963 Agenda July 14, 2016 -+ Lake Elmo City Hall 3800 Laverne Avenue North, Lake Elmo, MN _ ~` 1 Estimated Time Item 7:00 p.m. I. CALL TO ORDER II ANNOUNCEMENTS M. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES OF 6/23/2016 IV. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA (Additions/Corrections/Deletions/Reorganization) V. PUBLIC FORUM Anyone wishing to address the Board of Managers on an item not on the agenda or on the consent calendar may come forward at this time. 710 p.m. VI. REPORTS A. Citizens Advisory Committee B. Secretary C. Inspector D. Attorney E. Treasurer F. Washington Conservation District 7:15 p.m. G. Engineer 1. Permit Requests: a. Hammes Property,Lake Elmo b. ISWEM Islamic Center,Afton c. Mike Henry Fill on Long Lake, Pine Springs 2. Recommendation for Payment:Removal of Beaver Dam and Downed Trees on Shari Johnson Property 3. Systems Inspections and Maintenance Status and Bid Recommendations 4. Kelle's Creek Septic System Inspection Pilot Program Update S. Bid Recommendation:2016 VBWD Clean Water Fund Moynagh Ravine Stabilization 6. Lake Plant Survey Data Request 8:00 P.M. H. Managers 1, Washington County Fair 2. Tour OVER • Items in bold signify that an action needs to be taken by the Board. DAVID BUCHECK • LINCOLN FETCHER • JILL LUCAS • EMARD MARCHAN • ANTHONY HAIDER VALLEY BRANCH WATERSHED DISTRICT • P.O.BOX 838 • LAKE ELMO,MINNESOTA 55042-0538 12 of 34 www.vbwd.org Valley Branch Watershed district July 14,2016, Meeting Agenda Page 2 3 Website VII. FUTURE BUSINESS A. 2017 Budget B. Next Meetings:July 28 and August 11,2016 8:20 p.m. VUL ADJOURN 13 of 34 Kathy Lohmar Minnesota State Representative DistOct 39B : H� House of Washington county p ., Representatives Dear Chief DeRosier, With the events that have taken place in Minnesota,Louisiana,and Texas recently,I wanted to take a moment as your state representative, and as a citizen,to thank you and your force for all that you do to keep our communities safe. You have undoubtedly seen the disparaging and reckless comments made by people across the nation-and sadly,in our own state-that criticize law enforcement officers and attempt to paint A of them with a broad brush, I want you to know that I fully support you and the officers within your department. I recognize that by putting on the uniform each and every day,you are putting your life on the line to keep the public safe.And for that I am truly grateful. It's very easy for the armchair quarterbacks out there to criticize how you do your jobs and make split second decisions in hostile situations. The good deeds you perform on a daily basis may go unnoticed and unmentioned,but do know they are not unappreciated. Please let the men and women who work in your department know that they all have my respect, gratitude,and undeniable support. Your efforts to protect the people in our communities are truly remarkable. Stay safe, State epresenta ve Kathy Lohmer Stillwater 3305 Ogood Gave N.,Stiltnter,Minnesota W02 (651)295-3096 State Office Building, 100 Rev Dr Martin Luther Kina Jr Blvd.St.Pau[,Minnesota 55155-1298 _(651)2964244 FAX: (651)296-5378 Emat replathy.lohrner@housenn 14 of 34 .a-r .: c r t , � 11 July 14,2016 Dear PAII Members,Former Members, and Friends, We are sending you this special timely bulletin to update you on significant positive advancements regarding regulating the short- term rental industry. Each one of us is aware of the issues: inconsistent compliance with tax laws,racial discrimination, impact on the availability of affordable housing,lack of concern for the safety of guests and the neighborhood, and what's been called 'leveling the playing field'for all lodging properties. We here at PAII are so very appreciative to AH&LA(American Hotel&Lodging Association)for dedicating their resources to these issues which affect all lodging properties, and in our view,disproportionately affect the smaller,independent lodging properties of most PAII member innkeepers. The value of PAII's partnership and membership in AH&LA is immeasurable. We thank those of you who are current member innkeepers (with property)of PAII as your membership includes AH&LA membership. And, for those of you who were or are not yet PAII Innkeeper members,now is a very good time to invest in membership(joint PAII+AH&LA)to advance our industry and continue the positive momentum. Kris Ullmer z 15 of 34 PAII Executive Director Important Message from Katherine Lugar, President and CEO of the American Hotel& Lodging Association. I wanted to update you on some significant positive advancements regarding a number of our priority issues including the regulation of commercial short-term rentals,labor and workforce regulations, and OTA deceptive practices. ALI C after working closely with AH&LA for several months, Senators Brian Schatz(HI), eth Warren(MA)and Dianne Feinstein(CA)sent a letter to the Chairwoman of the l Trade Commission this morning raising concerns about the short-term rental industry espect to housing costs,racial discrimination, consumer protection, and community as well as the short-term rental platforms'inconsistent compliance with tax laws. r,the Senators requested the FTC to provide duta on the degree to which the short-term rental industry is comprised of commercial operators renting out whole units or multiple units. The letter dovetails perfectly with our strategy of pushing for transparency while highlighting the public policy issues related to short-term rentals and the need for a level playing field, which was also a key "ask" of members during our Legislative Action Summit earlier this year. Senator Warren's status as one of the most prominent and popular lawmakers among progressive activists will likely help mobilize grassroots and political support for reining in commercial operators on Airbnb and other sites. Further, Senator Feinstein has been the most outspoken critic of Airbnb in Congress and deeply engaged in the San Francisco debate, while Senator Schatz sits on the Senate Commerce Committee which has jurisdiction over much of the STR and"gig economy" debate. Together,the three Senators are an ideal team, from our perspective,to be raising the issue with the FTCwe-wS f � \ The letter,which you can view , is the most consequential and high profile critique of the STR industry at the federal level to date,and represents a new obstacle that Airbnb and other platforms will be forced to confront.AH&LA is working aggressively with our broad- based coalition right now to send out a flurry of statements of support and amplify coverage of this important letter with media. Read more in the Beltway publication, Earlier this week,AH&LA also sent a strongly worded letter to the Governor of New York urging him to sign an important bill that would ban short-term rental companies from advertising illegal listings. The to Governor Cuomo,Attorney General Schneiderman and Mayor de Blasio also highlights that Airbnb's self-governance approach has not worked to date and included an embargoed copy of the recent analysis conducted by researchers at Penn 3 16 of 34 State University in conjunction with AH&LA that illustrates a significant portion of Airbnb's revenue in New York City is generated by commercial landlords listing residential properties for rent full-time. Secondly,in other positive developments, as work in Congress winds down ahead of the political conventions,AH&LA has achieved some important successes as part of this year's government funding process in an effort to advance our key priority issues,particularly around labor and workforce,travel and tourism and our critical work around online booking scams. Labor and Workforce: Today,the House Appropriations Committee is set to approve the 2017 Labor,Health and Human Se ducation Appropriations bill,which includes a number of key workforce provision!Ke nd advanced by AH&LA. Importantly,the legislation includes prohibitions on ntation of the National Labor Relations Board's(NLRB)joint employer Stan Department of Labor's(DOL)overtime regulation,as well as language to hehe impact of onerous regulations governing the H-2B visa process for seasonal wck HERE for a letter AH&LA sent to the Committee thanking them for their a inclusion of these provisions keeps a spotlight on the need to address these burdensons,which are having a chilling effect on the ability of our industry-and many others-to continue creating jobs and providing opportunities to our employees. The Senate did not include similar provisions, so having these important policy riders in the House legislation is critical to keeping the issue front and center with Congress. Online Booking Scams: Language was included in the 2017 House Financial Services and General Government Appropriations bill highlighting concerns with deceptive online advertising in hotel bookings and directing the Federal Trade Commission(FTC)to further investigate these misleading practices. Ina ition,the language urges the FTC to decide on appropriate enforcement actions wi ' 0 ays of enactment,providing important specificity and a timeline for action. The legislatio assed the full House of Representatives last week, and is just another example of the signifi t progress we have made in raising public awareness and pushing legislators and ors to put a stop to scam websites. This comes on the heels of strong Congressional ac on on the Stop Online Booking Scams Act(H.R. 4526),which now has 21 bipartisan co ponsors and was the focus of a recent House Energy& Commerce hearing where Omni Hotels&Resorts testified on behalf of the industry and FTC Chairwoman Edith Ramirez expressed her support for the bill. Government Travel: At the end of 2014,the Defense Department implemented drastic cuts to the per diem rates for personnel on long-termtrave assignments,reducing the rates by 25% for travel over 30 days and 45%for travel over 18 days. Since then,AH&LA has been aggressively advocating for the repeal of thesec s,given the impact on hoteliers near military bases as well as the damaging precedent it couldfor other federal agencies. Importantly, this year's House Defense Appropriations bill in u ed a provision that would prohibit the Defense Department from implementing those cuts over the next year. While the Senate bill 4 17 of 34 didn't include that same provision, it did include language raising significant concerns with the per diem cuts. Much like last year, Congress will not be completing its work on each of the individual appropriations bill that fund the government and will likely end up passing an "omnibus" government funding bill after the election during the1 e duck session. With that in mind, AH&LA will be working in the coming months to a ocate for these important provisions to be included in any omnibus, end-of-year appropri o legislation. Having strong provisions on our key labor and workforce priorities,as wel as lguage pushing legislators and regulators to act to stop online booking scams, and provisions protecting per diem policies, in the current House legislation, is an important first step to a longer-term strategy. We will keep you updated on all of these important issues, and appreciate your continued support and engagement. Katherine Lugar President and CEO American Hotel& Lodging Association f�l/•. r Pat .. - a9_ 5 18 of 34 Tr�f. XMO.of x � 4 BMW Mates �$Cnatt (EA.T.-x VVASHINGTON, DC 20510 JUIN' 13. 2016 Chairwoman Edith Ramirez Federal Trade Commission 600 Ilennsvly anis] Avenue. NW Washington. IAC 20580 Dear Chairwoman Ramirez. �Vc write today to urue the Federal Trade Commission to study and gUantlly the degree to which the rapidly expanding shout-term lodging rental market consists ofllersons or firms acting in a commercial manner by renting out entire residences or multiple residences simultaneously. Phis distinction is critical to Congress and state and local lawmakers as we seek to assess the: xvide-ranging impact of the short-term rental industry on the communities in which then operate. In recent years, we have sten the emergence and rapid growth ol*conlpanies like Airbnb, I loineAway_ VRBO. and Flipkcy. Oil one hand. these firms have sparked innovation, increased competition. and have provided new means by which our constltUents can earn extra income. (til the either hand. Nvc are concerned that short-terra rentals may be exacerbating housing shortages and driving up the cost ofhousing in our communities. We have also read troubling reports of racial discrimination cin some short-term rental platforms. furthermore. we are concerned that conlnlunities and consumers play be put at risk through violations of sensible. health. safety, and inning regulations under state and local law. For example. in a report based on data gathered (i•onl Airbllb pursuant to a subpoena. the New York Attorney Cicneral IbUnd that commercial users (those with 3 or more unique units) accounted 6or a disproportionate share ol'the revenue generated 11'cml short-term rentals. The commercial users accounted tier only 69,ia ol'the hosts in New York City. yet generated 37% of the revenue. furthermore. the report indicated that 725,0 of unique units rented in New York City appeared to violate state and local law. At the FTC's June 9. 201workshop entitled '"The 'Sharing' Economy: Issues facing I'latibrins. Participants and Re`,Lllatclrs"there was widespread agreement that more information and data was needed to properly assess the impacts of the short-term rental industry on cu11111111111tics. I..'ntortlnately. the platlortll companies. which are the hest positioned to provide this l\"pe of illforllliltloll. seelll relLICta11t to do so. And even il'platlorm companies do share their data. concerns ha\e been raised about the reliability of this data. We are also troubled bx efforts ol'platiorlll companies to negotiate agreements with state and local governments to collect and provide aggregate tax payments on rentals processed through their systems without providing more detailed information that wOtlld help officials to determine til;: leuality ofthose rentals. In other cases. online platforms appear to be complying with state and local tax latus inconsistentiv. collecting= taxes in some jurisdictions and not others. Page 1 of 2 19 of 34 In order to assess of the use and impact of'the short-term rental market. we need reliable data on the commercial use of online platforms. We believe the FTC is best positioned to address this data gap ill 111 unbiased nls1t111sr and wv urge the Commission to conduct a review of commercial operators on short-term rental platftnnms. We hope the F"I C would be able to release the results of such a stutiv on a standalone basis or as part ofany report issued on the *"sharing economy." Sincerely. ' fOA, i Brian Schatz Dianne Feinstein U.S. Senator U.S. Senator • izabeth Warren S. Senator Page 2 of 2 20 of 34 Current/Archived Newsletters-Metro Cities Page 1 of 5 ,ns0000"� METRO CITIES Association of Metropolitan Municipalities Search I GO j..ili1L= Metro Cities News Have you heard the latest? July 15, 2016 Check us out on Facebook Newsletter Archive � Special Session Discussions to Resume CMETRO Today .T` ES VA"CWW t flow Q0KWUIn the first few weeks following the May 23rd adjournment of the 2016 session, And follow us on Twitter legislative leaders and the Governor met on several occasions to discuss the possibility of a special session, but leaders have not +s e�r0 met in several weeks. Discussions on a session will resume today, with the rbiMl� Governor and legislative leaders meeting this morning. Rep. Daudt indicated yesterday that he believes there should be - a sesSior! #4 address a capital investment, tax and transportation bills, and Senator Bakk noted that there is agreement on basic parameters for a session. House Minority Leader Thissen sent a letter yesterday to leaders and the Governor that In Current/Archived supports suggested parameters for a Newsletters: session including a corrected tax bill,the Archives convening of a capital investment bill conference committee, a transportation bill minus earmarks, and potential law changes relating to building trust between police officers and community members. Stay tuned for further information and updates. 21 of 34 http://www.metrocitiesmn.org/index.asp?SEC=%7B3738C3AO-1 B97-40BE-97A7-532E7... 7/15/2016 Current/Archived Newsletters-Metro Cities Page 2 of 5 Met Council Environment Committee Adopts 2017 MWC, SAC Rates On Tuesday, the Metropolitan Council's Environment Committee was presented with and adopted proposed 2017 wastewater and other charges. Rates and charges fund 100% of regional wastewater system operations, maintenance and debt . service. Under the rates adopted on Tuesday, the municipal wastewater charge (MWC)will increase by 5.4%. The Sewer Availability Charge(SAC) is proposed to remain flat. The rates as adopted on Tuesday will be considered by the Metropolitan Council for approval on July 27. For more information on the rate changes, click . In its rate setting process, MCES staff conducted outreach with local officials that included a workshop hosted by Metro Cities for elected officials and administrators, and two annual customer forums. Questions? Please contact Steve Huser at steven(a-metrocitiesmn.org or 651-215- 4003. Broadband Grants Open July 22 The Office of Broadband Development has announced it will begin accepting grant applications for the Border to Border Broadband Grant Program beginning July 22. The legislature appropriated $35 for broadband in the 2016 session. Locations within the metro that meet the unserved and underserved speeds are eligible to apply. DEED has noted that grant awards will be geographically dispersed across the state. Grant applications are due October 3 and awards are scheduled to be announced by late November. The new round of grants contain several changes from the first two rounds. Of the $35 million appropriation, $5 million is reserved for underserved communities and $500,000 is reserved for low-income areas (defined as at or below 200 percent of federal poverty guidelines). The remainder of the awards are for unserved areas. The grants must also be used for technology that is scalable to at least 100Mbps up/down. There is a cap of$5 million per grant award and the grants require a 22 of 34 http://www.metrocitiesmn.orghndex.asp?SEC=%7B3738C3AO-1 B97-40BE-97A7-532E7... 7/15/2016 Current/Archived Newsletters-Metro Cities Page 3 of 5 minimum of a 50 percent match,with additional scoring points awarded for higher matches.Additionally, all invoiced work must be complete by June 30, 2019 which will give grantees two full construction cycles to complete the work. There is a new requirement for applicants to contact existing providers six weeks before submitting an application. The Office of Broadband Development will have a template that can be used, available soon at their ,absite. Responses from those providers must be submitted with the application. The broadband legislation this year also updated the definition of underserved to be households or businesses with speeds of at least 25 download/3 upload and up to less than 100 Mbps down/20 Mbps up. Unserved areas are defined as areas that lack speeds of 25 Mbps down/3 Mbps up. Maps showing unserved and underserved areas are available 11 and The Office of Broadband Development within DEED is available to answer questions related to the grant program including eligibility, process and application requirements. Contact Jane Leonard at iane.leonard(a)-state.mn.us or 651-259- 7635. Changes to TAB Bylaws At the Metropolitan Council meeting on Wednesday, proposed changes to the Transportation Advisory Board's (TAB) bylaws were adopted. The bylaw changes were recommended by a TAB bylaws subcommittee and were approved by the TAB and the Met Council Transportation Committee. Under the revised bylaws, all appointing authorities may now appoint TAB alternates. Previously, alternate appointments were restricted to state agencies, counties, and cities of the first class. The new change is permissive, and gives appointing authorities the ability to choose whether to allow alternates and to determine a process for doing so. Metro Cities staff will discuss this issue with the Metro Cities Board of Directors, which 23 of 34 http://www.metrocitiesmn.org/index.asp?SEC=%7B373 8C3AO-1 B97-40BE-97A7-532E7... 7/15/2016 Current/Archived Newsletters-Metro Cities Page 4 of 5 serves as the appointing authority for municipal TAB seats, to determine a course of action on appointing alternates. Questions? Please contact Steve Huser at steven(M-metrocitiesmn.orc, or 651-215- 4003. Mat Council Approves Livable Communities Grants On Wednesday the Metropolitan Council awarded nine Tax Base Revitalization Account grants. The awards include seven Contamination Cleanup grants in Hastings, Minneapolis, St. Louis Park, Saint Paul and Vadnais Heights, one Contamination investigation grant in Minneapolis and one pilot grant in Minneapolis. According to the Council, the pilot grant encourages development on strategic sites within areas of concentrated poverty that do not have a specific redevelopment project but show potential for job creation. The awards, totaling$2,555,600,were selected from 19 applications, totaling $6.71VI in requested funds. State Revenue and Economic Update Shows Higher than Projected Revenues The state's net general fund receipts are estimated to be$230 million or 1.1% higher than anticipated in the February 2016 Budget and Economic Forecast, largely due to higher than expected corporate tax receipts. This revenue projection, in combination with the$728 million unallocated by the 2016 Legislature, creates a potentially strong revenue balance moving forward into the fall, and the state would stand to see a strong positive balance in the next official budget forecast, and a resulting additional transfer to the state's budget reserve. Metro Cities' Municipal Revenues Committee heard a detailed presentation this week by Senate nonpartisan fiscal staff on the state's budget reserve policy and how it functions. The latest revenue update released by the MN Department of Management and Budget, notes that while the nation's economic growth has been generally weak over the last year, economic growth is rebounding, and consumer spending rising. 24 of 34 hnp://www.metrocitiesmn.orghndex.asp?SEC=%7B3738C3AO-1 B97-40BE-97A7-532E7... 7/15/2016 Current/Archived Newsletters-Metro Cities Page 5 of 5 As with all monthly revenue updates, the Department cautions that these numbers are preliminary and may change. The next complete budget forecast will be released in early December 2016. See the update document at: hftps://www.iiiii.Qovlmmblassetsimmb- julY16-update-final tcm1059-249030.pdf Metro Cities News is emailed periodically to all Metro Cities member mayors,councilmembers,city managers and administrators to keep officials abreast of important metro city issues.This information is also intended to be shared with city staff. If you'd like to sign up to receive Metro Cities News, please emailgrieCal)metrocitiesmn.org and provide the following: Name,Title, Employer and Email address.Thank you. Metro Cities 145 University Ave W.,St Paul,MN 55103-2044 Phone 651-215-4000 Fax 651-281- 1299 Website w.MetroCitiesMN.or Home I About Us Metro Ctiles Members I Board of Directors I Legislature I Met Council I Metro Clties Task Force Report on Metr000llton Governance Press and Publications 12016 Legislative Policies I CumentlArchived Newsletters I Metropolitan Area Management Association I Questions. Comments or suggestions I Staff I Links and P ed by* r esantations Aaw Printer-friendly Version 25 of 34 http://www.metrocitiesmn.org/index.asp?SEC=p/o7B3738C3AO-1 B97-40BE-97A7-532E7... 7/15/2016 • - 1 - • •• r_ • • - - - - - �_ - View this e-mail as aeb pa4e w MINNESOVS TRANSPORTATION CONFERENCE • March 1-2, 2017 • &.t ndtieU%ilRud St. Paul, MIS - Mark your calendars for the 2017 Minnesota's Transportation Conference—the largest transportation event in the state! .loin us at this dynamic, engaging event to learn about the latest transportation innovations and network with fellow professionals. The event will be held March 1-2, 2017, at the Saint Paul RiverCentre in St. Paul, MN. The 2016 conference featured more than 30 sessions highlighting innovative and emerging topics and trends., drew more than 1,000 attendees, and received sponsorship from rnore than 55 transportation organizations:. Watch for the 2017 conference program and registration materiels in late 2016. To learn more about the conference, please visit the If you are interested in sharing your work at the 2017 conference, please submit your presentation ideas by Monday, July 18. A list of suggested presentation topics is available on the but submissions in other topic areas will also be accepted. Lecture, panel, and activity-based presentations are welcome. Presentations may be 20 or 40 minutes in length. Submissions should include a title, description (consider including information about the project approach, findings or results, potential applications, and policy implications), a description of why your topic will be of interest to a wide range of transportation professionals, and known or suggested presenters. Entire panel sessions may be submitted as one presentation. Please limit your session descriptions to 450 words or less. To submit a oresentation idea, please visit the iNws As mayors of communities from across MSP, we are shocked and deeply concerned about the recent shootings and violence on both sides of the badge locally and nationally. We firmly believe that every resident of our community, citizen and law enforcement officer alike, has a basic right to feel safe and secure in their community, on the street and on the job. Violence will not achieve that. What is most needed right now is calm and space for dialogue, for compassion and understanding. We understand the feelings of many Minnesotans who are angry, frustrated or fearful; who seek racial justice, change to police practices and peaceful non-violent protest. We reject as unjust prejudice, bigotry, hatred and harassment due to the color of your skin or ethnicity. We appreciate also the challenges police officers face in protecting and serving the rights of all citizens. Verbal and physical violence in pursuit of these things is entirely unacceptable and it must stop. It solves nothing and undermines everything. In the past week, the ongoing conversations in many city halls across the region about race, community policing and how to de-escalate potential confrontations, have understandably intensified. The Police Executive Research Forum, a national "think tank"for our country's police departments, acknowledged in a recent report the need to challenge and alter conventional thinking on use of force by local law enforcement. We agree. Many of our communities, led by our police chiefs, have undertaken positive measures to see policing practice through the lens of others. A number of cities and local officials in the metro area have also been participating in the Government Alliance for Racial Equality. We are committed to continuing the local and national effort to achieve racial equity and address institutional racism in each of our communities. While such conversations are not always comfortable, they are critical to the health and vibrancy of our communities and our region. Right now, we understand that emotions on all sides are raw and exposed. But we are Minnesotans. If we are to achieve the justice we all seek, we simply cannot afford to verbally and physically lash out at one another in times of high emotion. Rather, we must listen and act together to address the inequalities and conflict in our communities with courage, kindness and civility. Only this way, standing together and acknowledging the challenges before us, will we be stronger as individual cities, as a state and as a country. �Desso 1C,& - E 27 of 34 DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY ST.PAUL DISTRICT,CORPS OF ENGINEERS 180 FIFTH STREET EAST,SUITE 700 (0 ST.PAUL,MN 55101-1678 Executive Office JUL 0 7 2016 The Honorable Mary McComber City of Oak Park Heights 14168 Oak Park Blvd. N Oak Park Heights, MN 55082 Dear Mayor McComber, The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Paul District, invites you to learn more about various Corps' programs available to local communities, watershed districts and Native American tribes while enjoying the sites of the Mississippi River onboard the Motor Vessel MISSISSIPPI, the largest diesel towboat in the United States. The Corps of Engineers manages a number of federal civil works programs available to communities to include water resource development, watershed planning, environmental management, emergency response and technical assistance and more. Corps' program managers will make a short presentation on the different types of programs offered and be available to answer questions throughout the event The event will take place on Friday, Aug. 5, 2016, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Participants will board the Motor Vessel MISSISSIPPI at Lambert's Landing in St. Paul, Minnesota, from 10-10:30 a.m. The vessel will depart for a ride on the Mississippi River at 10:30 a.m. sharp and return to Lambert's Landing at 1:30 p.m. The presentation will be given in the vessel's main hearing room as soon as the vessel departs. Lunch will be served at around 11:30 a.m., following the presentation. Participants will then be allowed to tour the vessel, mingle with other participants and individually meet with Corps' program managers. Please pre-register your attendance by going to the following website https://mvmississippistpau1.eventbrite.com by July 29, 2016. The event will be restricted to the first 50 participants who sign up. Today's Motor Vessel MISSISSIPPI was built in 1993 by Halter Marine. It is the fifth Corps of Engineers towboat to bear the name. It is the biggest diesel towboat in the United States at 241 feet long and 58 feet wide with 6,300 horsepower. The vessel spends more than 90 percent of its time as a working towboat for Memphis District moving barges, equipment and supplies on the river. It is also used by the presidentially 28 of 34 MV MISSISSIPPI at Lambert's Landing K r i The Corps of Engineers Motor Vessel MISSISSIPPI utilizes Lambert's Landing along Shepard/Warner Road at the foot of Sibley Street to dock in St. Paul, Minn. The landing has NO parking area immediately at the site. Vehicles are permitted to drive up on the large paved sidewalk area for short periods to drop and pick up passengers. Guests visiting the vessel have various parking options shown on the map. ST 2 Hour Parking Sam to 6pm;Mon-Fri H vp `+ 24 regular spots 2 handicap spots W STH a FILLMOREAVE • Lambert'LgVding is near the intersection of Shepard Road and Jackson Street in downtown St. Paul. Eric Johnson From: Mary Mccomber<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent Monday,July 11,2016 11:28 AM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd:CUC--City of Becker comments on Xcel IRP FYI —Original Message— From: Carolyn C Jackson<CCJackson@flaherty-hood.com> To: Becky Burtch(rburich@hoytlakes.com)<rburich@hoytlakes.com>; Bill Lavin (bill.lavin@granitefalis.com) sbill.lavin@granitefalis.c om>; Bradley M Peterson <BMPeterson@flaherty-hood.com>; Dave Smiglewski <smig@mvtvwireless.com>; Greg Hagy(grhagy@gmail.com)<grhagy@gmail.com>; Greg Pruszinske (gpruszinske@ci.becker.mn.us)<gpruszinske@ci.becker.mn.us>; Jeff O'Neill (jefF.oneill@ci.monticello.mn.us) <jell.oneill@ci.monticello.mn.us>; Kay Kuhlmann (kay.kuhlmann@ci.red-wing.mn.us)<kay.kuhlmann@ci.red- wing.mn.us>; Lynnette Brannan<lynette.brannan@gmail.com>; Mark Skelton <mayor@hoytlakes.com>; Marshall Hallock (marshall.hallock(Oci.red-wing.mn.us) <marshall.hallock@ci,red-wing.mn.us>; Mary McComber (marymccomber@aol.com) <marymccomber@aol.com>; Max Peters<maxp@cohasset-mn.com>; Rick Hendrickson (rhendrickson@ci.becker.mn.us)<rhendrickson@ci.becker.mn.us>;Timothy Flaherty<tpflaherty@flaherty-hood.com> Cc: Bradley M Peterson <BMPeterson@flaherty-hood.com>; Timothy Flaherty<tpflaherty@flaherty-hood.com>; Chris J Henjum <CJHenjum@flaherty-hood.com> Sent: Mon, Jul 11,2016 9:08 am Subject: CUC—City of Becker comments on Xcel IRP Hi Coalition of Utility City members, The MN Public Utilities Commission opened up a stakeholder comment period for the proposed changes to Xcel's Integrated Resource Plan. Here is a link to the comments submitted by the City of Becker. I thought you would all like to have the latest news,as well as the framing Becker has put on this issue. The short take—Becker laid out general support for the pian,citing the economic importance of the Xcel facilities to the City,the case for green energy expansion in the City,and the importance of siting the natural gas plant in Becker. Carolyn Jackson Senior Lobbyist Flaherty and Hood cciackson@flaherty-hood.com Office (651)259-1928 Cell (612)735-2627 1 30 of 34 CITY OF BECKER 12060 Sherburne Ave., P.O. Box 250 • Becker, Minnesota 55308-0250 Phone: (763)261-4302 Fax: (763)261-4411 Metro: (763)262-4455 www.ci.hecker.inn.us \cluxnotgs Mt Kept Secret July 5, 2016 Daniel P.Wolf, Executive Secretary BY E-MAIL AND U.S. MAIL Minnesota Public Utilities Commission PublicComments.PUC@state.mn.us 1217 ' Place East,Suite 350 St. Paul, MN 55101-2147 RE: In the Matter of Xcel Energy's 2016-2030 Integrated Resource Plan MPUC Docket Number: E002JRP-iS-21 Dear Mr.Wolf: On behalf of the Becker City Council and the residents of Becker,the following comments are offered on the above-referenced Docket.The City of Becker as host community to the Sherburne County Generating Station (herein "Sherco"),offers the following comments to Xcel Energy's 2016-2030 Integrated Resource Plan (herein the"Preferred Plan"). Introduction The City of Becker has a population of about 4,600 and has hosted the Sherco facility since the construction of Units 1 and 2 In the 1970s. The City's interest in the Sherco facility is substantial as the 4,500-acre site constitutes 62%of the City's geographical footprint.The facility employs close to 300 regular full-time and hundreds of contract and support workers. Many of these people reside within the City of Becker and Sherburne County. In addition to being a major tax payer in Becker and Sherburne County,Xcel Energy and the Sherco plant have been stable partners in the community and have demonstrated a commitment to promoting economic development in Central Minnesota.Xcel Energy and the Sherco plant have always been strong partners, advocates and participants in various philanthropic activities, Including fund raising for the United Way, internship programs for local high school students,and an annual Mississippi River Cleanup day. The City of Becker appreciates the opportunity to participate in the decision making process as a stakeholder.This collaborative approach has encouraged input and helped create an energy vision that will benefit customers and communities,while moving the carbon emissions reduction goal forward.We believe this method will assist host communities,such as Becker, 31 of 34 Comments from the City of Becker,Minnesota MPUC Docket Number. E002/RP-15-21 July 5,2016 Page 2 during this energy generation transformation.The City of Becker desires to continue this partnership and supports Xcel Energy's Preferred Plan as outlined below. Comments As to the items specifically requested in the Commission's March 3, 2016 Notice,the City of Becker agrees that Xcel Energy's Preferred Plan is in the best interest of the public.We believe the Preferred Plan builds on Xcel Energy's leadership role in environmental performance and ensures the best rate possible while building reliability and sustainability into the system. The Preferred Plan creates clean energy. By 2030,the energy mix is planned to be 63 percent carbon free.The Preferred Plan also advances both state and federal energy policy and is likely to comply with the Clean Power Plan.This further emphasizes Xcel Energy's and Minnesota's leadership roles in carbon free energy. Converting coal plants into gas plants reduces carbon emissions and rounds out the energy mix. The Preferred Plan pushes green energy forward.Xcel Energy plans for additional large scale wind generation by adding 1,800 megawatts to anticipate and meet the growing demand for wind generated power.The Preferred Plan also outlines the actions to add 1,400 megawatts of solar generated power,which is another growing segment of customer demand. The City of Becker greatly supports the building of industrial solar power generation.The Becker community urges the Public Utility Commission to implement the Preferred Plan,which includes a large scale solar plant in Becker. It will help offset some of the job losses proposed by the decommissioning of Units 1 and 2.We also see the solar generation plant as an economic development tool.As we promote and develop our community,we are hearing that other business partners want renewable energy.Therefore,we believe the solar plant will be a critical part of the City of Becker's marketing strategy as the community transitions from a coal based economy to a more environmentally sustainable economy. The Preferred Plan proposes reliability as a top priority.The City of Becker supports operating the company's nuclear fleet through the end of each unit's current licensed life, as proposed in the Preferred Plan.We believe this is a critical cornerstone in delivering reliable power.The City of Becker also supports the Preferred Plan's proposal to build a combined cycle gas plant on the 5herco site to fill the void created by the decommissioning of Units 1 and 2. From a reliability standpoint,and in the event of a black start,this proposal is in the public's interest. 32 of 34 Comments from the City of Becker,Minnesota MPUC Docket Number: E002/RP-15-21 July 5,2016 Page 3 The Preferred Plan also continues to produce affordable power,which is a top priority, especially in the context of competing economically with other areas of the country and world. The Preferred Plan accomplishes this by developing new technologies, pursuing efficiency and modernizing the grid.The City of Becker strongly encourages the continued commitment to energy efficiency and the pursuit of new technologies to keep energy affordable. We strongly support the siting of a combined cycle gas plant at the Sherco site with the intent it Will provide additional options to continue to supply steam to Liberty Paper,who is a valued Xcel Energy customer,an important employer in the Becker area,and a critical part of Minnesota's recycling industry.Assuming the combined cycle plant is built on the Sherco site, we do not oppose the Plan's closing of Sherco Units 1 and 2.We know this will benefit Minnesota by moving us toward compliance with the Clean Power Plan. However,we know this decision will have a profound impact on the city and county tax base,regional employment, personal income for Sherco employees,and businesses located throughout Becker and Sherburne County.We urge the Commission to help diminish those impacts by constructing replacement generation in the Becker community. We support the location of a gas generating plant in Becker for several reasons. First,the positive impact of the living-wage construction jobs during the construction phase of the project and the synergy a large construction project brings to a community.Second,ongoing jobs to operate the gas plant once the construction phase is complete.Third,a natural gas pipeline will create new economic development opportunities and bolster the transition of the community from a coal based economy. Fourth,it will preserve system reliability for all Xcel customers.Finally, locating the project in Becker will assist the Public Utility Commission in meeting their goal of containing the cost of power.The Midcontinent System Operator(MISO) Y2 Study has concluded that the decommissioning of Sherco Units 1 and 2 will require substantial transmission upgrades. Without the combined cycle plant on the Sherco site,Xcel Energy will have to make large expenditures to upgrade and rebalance the system that will not add additional power to the network or revenue to the company. While the closure of Sherco Units 1 and 2 will have a detrimental impact on tax base, employment,and disposable personal income in Central Minnesota,those impacts are partially mitigated by positive economic impacts of constructing replacement generation in the Becker community. The path charted by the Preferred Plan allows satisfactory time over the course of approximately ten years to transition the workforce during this fleet evolution,provides for new investments, and promotes economic development opportunities in host communities. Conclusion 33 of 34 Comments from the City of Becker, Minnesota MPUC Docket Number: E002/RP-15-21 July 5, 2016 Page 4 Xcel Energy's Preferred Plan provides a transition to a sustainable and reliable energy mix at affordable rates,which supports local economic prosperity.The strong partnership and collaborative efforts demonstrated by Xcel Energy with the Becker community will assist and be beneficial during the transition of the workforce during this fleet evolution.This transition will provide opportunity for new investment and promote economic development in host communities.The Becker City Council continues to collaborate with Xcel Energy to expedite its community development efforts. Xcel Energy has a proven commitment and a vested interest in promoting economic development in Becker,Sherburne County, and its service territory.The Preferred Plan will benefit rate payers by providing a cost-effective, planned transition to cleaner energy,while preserving reliable and safe service. Thank you for the opportunity to present the City of Becker's comments on this important topic. The City encourages continued engagement in dialogue about our long-term energy needs as well as the long-term environmental impacts. This discussion must take place while recognizing that in order for commerce to flourish,we must have a plan that partners with communities,customers and stakeholders.The Preferred Plan provides a clear path to reliable and secure power and brings the vision of making Minnesota a leader in carbon free energy a reality. Xcel Energy's Preferred Plan gives us all a migration path to a 63%carbon free energy mix by 2030 and a plan we can all live with. Any questions regarding these comments may be directed to Greg Pruszinske, City Administrator,at 763-200-4244 or Thank you, CITY OF BECKER, MINNESOTA Jerome Kleis, Mayor cc: Greg Pruszinske, City Administrator, City of Becker Becker City Council Members Service List 34 of 34