HomeMy WebLinkAboutweekly notes December 9th 2016 4J ;PA�dmiin'
rheMemo '° TO: City Council Members FROM:Er' trator
WEEKLY NOTES— December 9th 2016
Zoning and Development Items:
1. A person was bitten by a dog(that belongs to a Stillwater resident);please see the attached email from Chief DeRosier.
2. The City did send an apology letter to David and Courtney Johnson of 15223 65th Street due to A-1 excavating hitting
their sanitary service line while constructing their water service line along the 65th Street project See Enclosed;on a
related note,that project has wrapped up for the year and will see the final lift of asphalt in spring 2017 along with final
landscaping.
3. The next meeting for the"Boomsite to Bayport°meeting is planned for 12/21/16—1 have enclosed the planned agenda
and times.It is to be held at the Andersen Windows Offices here in Oak Park Heights.
SCRCP&Bridge Related Items
MNDOT Update for 12/8/16.
Other items
• 1 did attend the County's kick-off meeting for the Osgood Ave. (CSAH 24) planning process. I have enclosed the meeting
minutes. I did express those positions outlined in the City approved letter from October 2017. Generally, however it was a
positive meeting and the County's consultant hopes to have public meetings in the not too distant future.
• Education Updates from the EMWREP—The City is a member of this organization as part of its continued MS4 compliance.
The Washington Conservation District Open House is slated for 12/14/16—See enclosed.
• MSCWMO—Agenda for Dec Bih,2016
• BCWD-Agenda Dec 14th,2016
Mayor McComber Provided:
1. Information from WISDOT relating to the Loop Trail Discussion
2. MAOSC Newsletter for December 2016
Please call me at any time if you have questions...651-253-7837
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Eric Johnson
From: Brian DeRosier
Sent: Thursday, December 8,2016 11:43 AM
To: mi
Subject: FW:Contact Us(form) has been filled out on your site.
Attachments: Cc601.pdf
Ms.Coffman;
In reference to the determination of dangerous dog there is no appeal process directly with the city outlined in
ordinance. I would refer you to your legal counsel for other possible remediation that may be available to you. City
ordinance only allows the city to directly hear an appeal for dogs that are classified as"potentially dangerous." I have
attached a copy of the ordinance that was sent along with the letter you received. A dog that has inflicted a bite without
provocation on public property"roadway"as happened in the incident documented in OPH Police Case#16705032
report 11-07-2016, is considered by ordinance considered a dangerous dog. City ordinance 601 regulates animals within
the City of Oak Park Heights.
I would direct you to the ordinance section J.1.a which makes the determination your dog is to be classified as a
dangerous dog due to an inflicted bite causing substantial bodily harm. In this incident your dog and others chased the
victim who was running by on the street. Your dog was identified as the dog who bit the victim causing numerous
puncture wounds and bleeding causing the victim to be treated medically. The investigation of this was acknowledged
by William Coffman and the owner of the property in which your dog was visiting located in OPH.
Since you do not live within OPH the determination only affects your ability to return the dog to OPH. As required in
ordinance the dog must be removed from the city. Any appeal of notice for harboring or other restrictions that may
have been placed on your dog by the City of Bayport where you reside would need to be addressed with the City of
Bayport and any process they may or may not have.
If you have any further question please give me a call.
Thank you,
Brian DeRosier
Chief of Police/Emergency Manager
Oak Park Heights Police Dept.
14168 Oak Park Blvd No. PO Box 2007
Oak Park Heights, MN 55082
651-439-4723
Those that have the ability to right a wrong, have the responsibility to.
Subject:Contact Us(form)has been filled out on your site.
Your Site has received new information through an online form.
Online Form: Contact Us
Site URL:www.cityofoakparkheights.com
-----------------------------------------
Name:
1
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Street Address:
Phone No.:i
Email Address: gmail.com
Question or Co Oment: Our dog was recently declared dangerous by OPH...In the letter rec'd there was no information
on how to appeal this...please provide contact info as to who would handle this.Thank you
Do Not Click Reply-This e-mail has been generated from an online form.
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wo
City of Oak Park Heights
14168 Oak Park Blvd. N•Box 2007.Oak Park Heights,MN 55082•Phone(651)439-4439•Fax(651)439-0574
December 6,2016
David and Courtney Johnson
15223 65th Street
Oak Park Heights, MN 55082
RE:Sanitary Service Line.
Dear David and Courtney:
Again, I apologize for the confusion and outcome on the impacted sanitary service line at your home in late October.
Luckily, there was not any material damage inside your home. What we discovered and can now affirm by their
admission is that A-1 Construction did hit and impact your sanitary service line while it was installing the water service
line in late October,as these were either in the same trench or directly adjacent to each other.
Unfortunately,they did not let Public Works Director Andy Kegley or the City's other inspectors know of this impact—
once they were aware of it-nor of their late-evening repairs.Public Work's staff conclusion was logically that a root or
other obstruction was in your service line, as the City's main line was flowing when manholes were viewed. We are
glad that A-1 Construction did recognize their mistake and from what I can gather,it appears there were no objections
on their part that they may have cause such damages. If this inaccurate,please let me know.
According to A-1 Manager Brad Nielsen, they replaced approximately 15'of sanitary Brad ryieben
service line and that you should have the"best"line on the block.A-1 will be extending Project Manager
a two-year warranty on this work to you and they will send to you a separate letter to A,1 Excavating
that effect. Despite this matter,A-1 has been a decent crew to work with and I would Office--
715~568.4141 x19
trust that they would honor any repair commitments should something arise. Mr. Cel:715 271-0387
Nielsen's contact number is enclosed here.
Dealing with underground utilities can be guesswork until the backhoes arrive of course but we would expect there to
be no issues moving forward with these new facilities. I hope that they serve your family well for the next fifty+years.
Please I e know if you have any questions or need any further data. I again apologize for inconvenience created.
ga c
/ !- I/
nc Joh4son �-
city Administrator
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Eric Johnson
From: Mike Wilhelmi <mike@wilheimi.mn>
Sent: Friday, December 9, 2016 1:58 PM
To: Brent Peterson (brent.peterson@wchsmn.org); Brian Zeller(bzeller@greystone-
commercial.com);Colette Jurek(colette.cjurek@xcelenergy.com);Cory Buettner
(corybuettner@gmail.com); Deb Ryun (debryun@scramail.com); Gary Kriesel
(gary.kriesel@co.washington.mn.us); Marc Hugunin (marc@pepinhugunin.com); Mary
McComber; Robin Anthony, Sherri Hopfe(dockcafe@yahoo.com);Susan Roeder;Susan
St.Ores (sstores@ci.bayport.mn.us);Ted Kozlowski (tedkoziowski@gmail.com);Ted
Wegleitner(theodore.t.wegleitner@healthpartners.com);Tom Triplett
(tom@triplettconsulting.com); David Johnson (Stw Township)
Cc: Eric Johnson; Kathy Schmoeckel; Logan Martin (Imartin@ci.bayport.mn.us);
molly.orourke@co.washington.mn.us;Sara Taylor;Tom McCarty
(tmccarty@ci.stillwater.mn.us); Mike Wilhelmi
Subject: Boomsite to Bayport meeting
Dear Friends,
Gary Kriesel and Susan Roeder invite you to attend our next"13213"meeting.
Wednesday, December 21
9:00am—10:30am
Andersen Corporate&Administrative Offices(CAO)
5909 Omaha Avenue, OAK PARK HEIGHTS
Visitor parking is located under the flagpole.
Please RSVP your attendance and any questions to me at(651) 214-8075.
Draft Agenda:
--Introduce/Welcome Wisconsin members
--County/City/Twp staff discuss progress of river recreation/trails projects in their communities,likely next steps.
--Group discussion of possible funding sources/timelines for projects
—Discussion of how group members can support projects. Focus on actionable projects in the next 1-2 years.
--General announcements/items of interest
--Close
If there is anything that a group member would like to add to the agenda, please let me know ASAP.
1
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Eric Johnson
From: Mary Mccomber <marymccomber@aol.com>
Sent: Thursday, December 8, 2016 1:17 PM
To: Eric Johnson
Subject: Fwd: Reminder Highway 36 westbound ramp is open!
---Original Message----
From: St Croix Crossing Project Team <stcroixcrossing.dot@public.govdelivery.com>
To: marymccomber<marymccomber@aol.com>
Sent: Thu, Dec 8, 2016 1:08 pm
Subject: Reminder-Highway 36 westbound ramp is open!
Having trouble viewing this email?View it as a Web page.
,, ►► Stcroix Reminder - Highway 36
CROSSING westbound ramp isopen!
December 8, 2016
Hello again,
We have been hearing from some of you that not all drivers in the area are aware that the
new Hwy 36 westbound ramp is open, and are still trying to use the Hwy 36 eastbound
ramp to go west. To help alert drivers of the change MnDOT installed a no left turn sign at
the intersection earlier this week. Please be alert when driving through the construction
site and help us pass along the message to keep everyone safe during the holiday
season.
i
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101
Hw►y 36*westboun4 VL
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Hwy 36 eastbound
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Looking north on Hwy 95. From this view, now that Hwy 36 westbound is open, traffic can
no longer make a left-hand turn onto the Hwy 36 eastbound ramp. Photo from Dec. 7.
Construction highlights
leu C �, T-•
m
, •wry*M t � � ,y .
Crews prepare for the closure pour between Piers 9 and 10 by installing rebar a_nd
stressing the tendons located within the closure.Weather permitting, 4 of 6 closure pours
are anticipated to be complete by early January. Photo from Dec. 6.
t .
Crews install the drainage pipe that will carry water runoff into Minn. where it will be fed
into a holding pond and filtered. Photo from Dec. 6.
3
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Looking east toward Wisc.from atop the Hwy 36 eastbound ramp. Crews continue to
remove falsework at this ramp location and at the Hwy 95 eastbound ramp. Photo from
Dec. 6.
T 4
kt — ..,.
Crews have removed the forms at the Pier 12 overlook, closest to the Wisc. bluff.
Formwork helps support the structure and gives it the correct shape during the
construction process. There are a total of 3 overlooks on the project, located at Piers 8, 10
and 12. Photo from Dec. 6.
Reminder
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During the winter months, our emails are sent as we reach project milestones. For more
frequent project updates and to see more photos and videos, follow us on Facebook and
Twitter.
Stay connected
• Sign-up for project email updates
• Like us on Facebook
• Follow us on Twitter
• Visit the project website
• Call the project hotline at 1-855-GO-CROIX(462-7649)
• Stop by the St. Croix Crossing Project Office at 1862 Greeley St. S. in Stillwater.
Office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. M-F.
MnDOT • mndot.gov
Stay Connected with Minnesota Department of Transportation:
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MnDOT's Social Media Hub>>
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This email was sent to marvmccomber(Maol.com using GovDelivery,on behalf of.Minnesota Department of
Transportation•395 John Ireland Blvd•Saint Paul,MN 551551
yK;PAa wcw"A'�srT.
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Washington County I CSAH 24(Osgood Avenue North)Pavement Management&Safety Improvement Project
FN tCckoff meeting minutes
Kickoff meeting minutes
Project: CSAH 24(Osgood Avenue North) Pavement Management&Safety Improvement Project
Subject: Kick-Off Meeting
Date: Tuesday, November 29,2016
Time: 1:00—3:00 PM
Location: Washington County Public Works
11660 Myeron Road, Stillwater, MN
Room 1244
Attendees: WASHINGTON COUNTY HDR CONSULTANT TEAM
Allan Brandt, Project Manager Dax Kuhfuss, HDR Project Manager
Cory Slagle,Assistant County Engineer Brandi Popenhagen, HDR PI Lead
Frank Ticknor, Deign Manager Stephanie Bornetun, HDR PI Staff
Joe Gustafson,Traffic Engineer Brett Voth, HDR Drainage Lead
Grant Wyffels, Project Manager Richard Storm, HDR Traffic Lead
Mindy Leadholm, Right of Way Specialist Katie Schmidt, HDR Signal/Sign Lead
Eric Johnson,Oak Park Heights Administrator Kelly Garvey, HDR Environmental Lead
Shawn Sanders, Stillwater City Engineer Matt Oman,Braun Intertec Geotech Lead
1. Introductions - Name& Project Role.
a. Sign-in Sheet. Will develop into a Project Contact List.
2. Project Overview—Allan & Dax
a. Purpose of kickoff meeting, agenda shows discussion time allowances.
b. Project limits& location —50th St. N. to 65th St. N
i. 1.5 mile project.
ii. Primarily 2-lane undivided urban. Near TH 36 there is a segment of 4-lane divided
urban. South of 55th St N. the road becomes 2-lane undivided rural.
iii. 35mph posted speed, 11,000 ADT north of TH 36, 10,000 ADT south of TH 36
iv. Stillwater, Oak Park Height, Baytown. City limits jog through project.
v. Other notable sites include: Correctional Facility, Fairview Cemetery, Oak Park School,
Government Center, Valley View Park, Brekke Park, etc.
c. Project Purpose- Improve Operations and Safety for the corridor
L Existing critical crash rate higher than average. Improve intersections.
1. Traffic congestion and lack of turn lanes poses safety concerns.
ii. Discontinuous existing service for non-motorists (ped/bike)
1. Existing deficiencies - Poorly delineated, Inconsistent, Not accessible, Unsafe
crossings
iii. Opportunity to improve pavement and drainage.
1. CSAH 24 located north of TH 36 has poor pavement/lack of drainage system.
3. Project Objectives
a. Improve safety, capacity, operation at intersections
b. Improve ped & bicycle access
c. Find balance for local access needs
d. Identify stormwater improvements balanced with other needs
e. Obtain community and agency acceptance
f. Produce an approved geometric layout
g. Improve pavement life
hd0nc.com 701 Xenia Avenue South,Suite 600, Minneapolis, MN 55416-3636
(763)591-5400
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Washington County CSAH 24(Osgood Avenue North)Pavement Management&Safety Improvement Project
FN Kickoff meeting minutes
4. Agency Concerns
a. Washington County
L Should evaluate need for turn lanes at intersections.
ii. North of TH 36 -Anticipate full reconstruction with drainage facilities. South of TH 36—
Anticipate mill and overlay.
iii. Should realign west leg of 62nd St. Previous project for 61 st Street may have alignment
or geometry that should be used for realigning the west leg of 62nd St.
iv. Improve intersection at 62"d St. Signal should be replaced. Existing signal doesn't meet
standards and was put in due to outside pressures. Cross walks at all 4 locations should
be considered.
v. South of TH 36—Any proposed local access changes deserve thorough analysis.
Traffic count information will be needed.
vi. Project readiness may be more advanced on the north side of TH 36 than on the south
side. Project needs may outweigh funds and should be prioritized.
vii. Entire corridor is in need of pedestrian facilities including safe crossings.
viii. Pedestrian crossings at 58th street may not be sustainable.
ix. Trail connections and access along the frontage roads of TH 36 should be considered.
x. The north frontage road (61St St) has experienced sight distance/crash issues.
b. City of Stillwater
L City of Stillwater strongly desires a trail connection between Orleans St. and TH 36.
ii. City utility improvements (watermain, maybe others) are desired along with this project.
City would like to have a looped watermain connection to 63`d St.
iii. City will ask for state-aid funding where applicable to this project.Watermain work would
likely be fully city funds.
iv. Impacts to Simonet's funeral home for both right-of-way and access should be
considered.
c. City of Oak Park Heights
L City welcomes this project.
ii. Expressed concern that traffic patterns from the future opening of the new St. Croix
Bridge may not be settled enough for decision making with this project.
iii. Trail connections on the east side of CSAH 24 are welcomed and needed links.
iv. Will be highly interested in local access management changes. Will want to understand
access implications from any proposed alternatives.
v. City has no desire to fund a new roadway connection from 62nd Street to Oren Ave.
Would not oppose if others wanted to fund that work.
vi. City has no desire to fund a re-route of the existing frontage road traffic (60th St.) around
the southwest corner of Carbone's Pizzeria.
vii. Brekke Park has an existing trail which simply outlets to CSAH 24. Currently there is no
good connection to cross CSAH 24 to continue onto Valley View Park Rd.
viii. There is a large amount of pedestrian activity at the intersection with 58th Street. The
city has an easement with the nearby Watermark Church. The city has paid for this.
ix. Some desire to replace city utilities along CSAH 24 may exist, but not much.
x. A resident (Tony Walry) on the west side of the CSAH 24/56 1h St intersection has
experienced issues with southbound drivers using the shoulder to pass vehicles waiting
to make left turns to the east. New pavement marking was tried to help reduce this
issue.
A. City has concerns over restricting/closing access at the Osgood/South Frontage Road
intersection.
xii. City has expressed willingness to allow County to tie into storm sewer if necessary.
hdrinc.com 701 Xenia Avenue South,Suite 600,Minneapolis,MN 55416-3636
(763)591-5400
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FYZWashington County CSAH 24(Osgood Avenue North)Pavement Management&Safety Improvement Project
Kickoff meeting minutes
5. Agencies and Funding
a. Lead Agency- Washington County
b. Partners- City of Oak Park Heights, City of Stillwater
c. Reviewers- Middle St. Croix Watershed Management Organization
d. State-aid and local funding will be used. Cost estimates will have cost splits for agencies.
6. Project Schedule
a. Notice To Proceed (NTP) -Nov 22nd, 2016
b. Final Layout-May 2017.
c. Final Design Plans (not part of this contract) -Dec 2017
d. Project Bidding (not part of this contract)-Jan 2018
e. Construction (not part of this contract)-Summer 2018
f. Will maintain a detailed schedule.
7. Project Background to Date
a. 2001 -CSAH 24 pavement overlay(TH 36 to 65" St. N.)
b. 2006-CSAH 24 pavement overlay (50th St. N. to 59" St. N.)
c. 2015-Realigned 61"St. N.
d. 2016-Realigned CSAH 26 (60tH St N.)
e. 2016 - Holiday Station redeveloped its property (SE corner of TH 36/CSAH 24)
f. 2016-Held discussions with Fairview Cemetery about realignment of 62nd St. N.
g. 2018-Nearby project for CSAH 14/24. South of our project. Will meet @ 50th St/CSAH 24.
h. 2018-Nearby project for CSAH 21 Pavement Improvement. This is a parallel route to CSAH 24
and may impact detour routes.
i. 2018-Nearby project for CSAH 14/15 Intersection Realignment. This project is located to the
southwest in Lake Elmo.
8. Detailed Work Plan:
(task 1) Project Management
• Project Management Team -7 monthly meetings, entire group, held here
• Semi Monthly Coordination- 14 conference calls, Allan and Dax
• Quality Management Plan & Schedule Updates
(task 2.1) Data Collection
Have received:
• Existing Aerial (ortho-rectified).
• Property lines-GIS format, will use to show ROW.
• As-Built roadway plans.
• Latest 5 yrs of crash records
Still need:
• Turning movement counts and ped/bike volumes-TDI will start counts Dec 6tH
• Survey files (Microstation and Tin)-To be provided by the County.
(task 5.2) Hydraulics Evaluation
a. The drainage systems from MnDOT and Oak Park Heiahts have been kept separate, no co-
mingling of storm water.
(task 2.2) Utility Coordination -Survey coordinated with GSOC
a. Gas, water, and sewer mains are located near TH 36. There will be very little space to
accommodate much more.
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(763)591-5400
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FRWashington County CSAH 24(Osgood Avenue North)Pavement Management&Safety Improvement Project
Kickoff meeting minutes
(task 2.3) Public and Agency Involvement—the following items are planned.
• Public and Agency Involvement Plan (PIP)
• Public Open House Meetings
• Online Survey—caution was expressed in performing surveys. A recent survey resulted
in a bad experience
• Agency Meetings
• Agency Updates
• Website Updates
a. Washington County is currently in the hiring process for a public involvement staff person. This
position won't likely be filled until January. PI coordination can occur with that person later.
b. Anderson Windows may want to be an involved owner for project decisions.
(task 3.1) Traffic Operations Analysis
a. Holiday station is currently closed for remodeling. Taking traffic counts next week may not be a
good reflection of conditions once it reopens. Resolved to get counts and re-evaluate if more
information is needed again later.
b. Traffic count information for the CSAH 24/TH 36 intersection is available. Will use that
information and not take counts there.
c. Traffic count information for the CSAH 24/61 th St intersection is available. Resolved to take new
counts there anyway.
d. Resolved to use the year 2040 as the design year for forecasting.
e. Will get traffic counts at the following intersection crossings with CSAH 24: 65th, 62nd, 61 st, 60th,
59th, 58th, 56th.
(task 3.3) Ped & Bicycle Improvements
a. The pedestrian crossings of the north and western legs of the CSAH 24/TH 36 intersection are
the most important connections at that intersection.
b. The pedestrian crossing at TH 36 was mentioned as a bad crossing. There is no lighting near
the intersection for that crossing.
(task 3.4) Alternatives Evaluation—matrix
(task 4) Environmental Documentation—memos which document the aspects below are expected.
• Parkland evaluation
• Cultural resources
• Wetlands
a. Information from these memos will be used in the evaluation matrix for the Environmental
screening of the alternatives.
b. MnDOT or MPCA may have information/documentation of possible soil contamination near the
CSAH 24/TH 36 intersection. If information is available then further testing of soils may not be
needed. Environmental testing is not presently included in the scope of work.
(task 5.1) Preferred Alternative Geometric Layout
(task 5.3) Geotechnical Evaluation—a good amount of geotechnical information is already known due
to the nearby projects. Drilling will take place this spring to get additional information.
(task 5.4) Cost Estimates—will be based on County's cost participation policy.
(task 5.5) Right-of-way
a. Washington County coordinated with Fairview Cemetery a few years ago. Cemetery moved
their fence back at the County's direction in order to provide space for a new trail on the north
side of 62nd St. This trail was not constructed and property not acquired.We assume that the
Cemetery will request the County to pay for another fence relocation, if needed, as a result of
this project.
b. NW corner at CSAH 24/62nd intersection -A committee which is responsible for maintaining
flowers may be impacted by this project. Cemetery is believed to be free from any graves at this
corner. A low(wet) spot is known at this location.
c. The possibility of graves along the north side of 62nd street still exists. Only the corner near
CSAH 24 was cleared.
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(763)591-5400
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Washington County I CSAH 24(Osgood Avenue North)Pavement Management&Safety Improvement Project
FN Kickoff meeting minutes
9. Determine dates future PMT meeting/s
a. First PMT will be Dec 22nd @ 1 PM Washington County Public Works.
b. Monthly PMT meetings after Dec 22nd will be held the Td Thursday of each month @ 1 PM at
Washington County Public Works.
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(763)591-5400
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!6
New website shares stories of Minnesotans taking action to protect water
Last month, Watershed Partners debuted a new website designed to help partners reach out
to the public and encourage behavior change. The group, which has members from cities, counties,
watershed organizations,non-profits, National Park Service,and Hamline University,has spent several
years learning about how and why people make decisions related to environmental behaviors, such
as building a raingarden or picking up litter in the street. Partners have also identified key actions they
want people in Minnesota cities to take in order to help reduce stormwater pollution -actions such as !
raking leaves and grass clippings out of the street and using less sidewalk salt.
This year, Watershed Partners scrapped its j
old, out-dated website and created a new website
that features stories about Minnesotans taking
action to protect water. The idea is to provide partner
ry organizations with compelling stories and professional
T41 photos that they can use in their own communications
and outreach. In addition to the stories, there is also
a unique tracking component to the campaign that
�;. will allow Watershed Partners to measure how many
people are accessing the stories and which media
platforms are most successful.
Above:Nor Olson planted a three acre prairie in Now that the website is live,Watershed Partners
Stillwater Twp..Her story is one of the first four will provide new, seasonally-appropriate stories each
featured on the new cleanwatermn.org website. month. Future plans for the next two years include
helping partners to organize clean-up events in their
communities (cleaning leaves, dirt and debris out of
streets and storm sewers in spring and fall)as well as expanding an Adopt-a-Drain program that started
in St. Paul.
EMWREP coordinator Angie Hong has served on the Watershed Partners steering committee for
several years and will continue to be active in the new education campaign. In addition, EMWREP and
several EMWREP partners are funding members of Watershed Partners, which will allow us access to
photographs and other new materials created. See the website at www.cleanwaterm_ .ora.
EMWREP partners pass MS4 Audits with flying colors
This summer, seven EMWREP partners were audited by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
for Minimum Control Measures 1 &2 of their MS4 permits (public outreach and public participation
related to stormwater pollution prevention). Everyone passed!
Congrats to: Dellwood, Grant, St. Paul Park, West Lakeland Township, Rice Creek Watershed
District, South Washington Watershed District, and Valley Branch Watershed District
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Connecting with the public in new ways
Neighborhood water events provide fun
learning for the whole family
This summer, EMWREP organized family-friendlyII
neighborhood and community events around the east
metro as a way to connect with younger audiences '
and teach people about their local wetlands, lakes and '
streams. The events - in Stillwater, Cottage Grove, a
Woodbury, Maplewood, and Forest Lake -were well
attended and very fun!
We taught children and adults how to collect
macro invertebrates using common household t _
items like tupperware containers, plastic spoons, ,
and ice cube trays. We talked about how these „
critters help us to measure the health of local
lakes and streams.At the Maplewood event,
Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District also -
showed off a new stream restoration project and in Wa
Stillwater, Brown's Creek Watershed District used
their event as an opportunity to educate people +
about a parking lot retrofit designed to cool water in
the stream. ..
Above: Scenes from family events around the
Now serving - WATER east metro (clockwise)- South Twin Lake in
At this year's Washington County Fair,
Stillwater,Meadowgrass Park in Cottage Grove,
Powers Lake in Woodbury.
EMWREP and the Conservation District tried a
fun new idea to connect with people and initiate
conversations about water. We hosted a "Water Bar" that served tap water from EMWREP cities and
well water from Lake Elmo Regional Park Reserve. The idea came from a public arts project with an
actual storefront Water Bar in northeast Minneapolis.
The Water Bar got lots of traffic during the fair and ended up being an interesting way to
engage people of all ages.
JJJ
Above:The Water Bar at the Washington County Fair was fun for all ages.
17 of 29 2
Summer and Fall Education Events;
June 4: RWMWD Waterfest at Lake Phalen Sept. 15: St. Croix Workshop-on-the-Water
Angie and Jenn talked to visitors about groundwater
and water conservation. Sept. 16: Trout in the Classroom field session at
Afton State Park
June 9: Sustainable Stillwater Launch Party Jenn taught kids about how land use and
Angie presented about water projects in the development impacts lakes and rivers
Stillwater area.
Sept. 28: Children's Water Festival
June 11: Belwin Bison Release Jenn talked to kids about groundwater
June 15:Watershed Partners Mississippi River
Workshop-on-the-Water Oct. 4: Washington County Employee Picnic
Jenn talked to county employees about groundwater
June 16: Groundwater workshop in Afton and water conservation
Included presentations from Angie and Jen Koehler
(Barr Engineering) Oct. 13: Evergreen Country Homes project
June 22: Pond dipping in Cottage Grove celebration and tour
June 20-23: 4H camp and movie festival Oct. 21: Campfire program at St. Croix Bluffs
Jenn taught lessons about water and helped the Regional Park
kids create movies. Co-taught with St. Croix River Association
June 28: Pond dipping in Woodbury, Powers Lk Oct. 28: Prairie seeding at St. Croix Prep
July 13: Keller Creek celebration event WCD and MSCWMO staff helped 1100 students
plant 10 acres of prairie
July 19&20: Woodbury and Cottage Grove
Safety Camps Nov. 14: Lake Associations Meeting
Angie and Jenn led kids on a "who done it?"to learn 30 people from lake associations in Washington
about stormwater pollution County attended
July 19: Forest Lake Arts in the Park Nov. 17: Washington County Realtor Training
Jenn showed visitors aquatic invertebrates Angie talked about landscaping for clean water and
cost-share grants
July 26: Pond dipping in Stillwater, S. Twin Lk
Aug. 3-7: Washington County Fair
Aug. 24: Century College Back-to-School BBQ
Jenn talked to students about water conservation -
cl—
Aug. 25 -Sept.4: Minnesota State Fair
Angie and Jenn helped to staff booths for
Watershed Partners and Blue Thumb ` '
Sept. 11: PolliNATION event in Stillwater Twp.
Angie and Tara Kelly (WCD)talked to visitors about
native plants and cost-share grants y
Above:Volunteers from Trout Unlimited
demonstrated fly-tying at the Brown's Creek
Sept. 13: Brown's Creek Nature Event Nature Event in Stillwater.
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so,J l orb jects, �
7th Annual St. Croix River Workshop
Our annual St. Croix Workshop-on-the-Water was held on Sept.14. This special workshop is
designed for local decision-makers such as city council members, watershed board members,
county commissioners, and advisory committee members. This year's workshop provided
information about St. Croix National Scenic Riverway policies and standards and focused on the
benefits of adopting more current stormwater and land use management standards.
F7 - x_-
4 4
a
Above:Local leaders learned about the importance of establishing an orderly process for how new
development and re-development projects are reviewed,permitted, and completed in their communities.
Condos and townhomes go green d.
The Washington Conservation District
is wrapping up a three-year Clean Water
Fund grant project to work with homeowner's
associations (HOAs) around Washington County. ;k`
During the first phase of the grant, EMWREP ,.
educator Jenn Radtke conducted three sets
of focus groups with HOA board members,
property management companies, and lawn care
companies. We then used the feedback collected
during these sessions to craft our outreach
message to engage HOAs in stormwater
pollution prevention projects.
This fall, two HOAs in Woodbury- Above: Tara Kline gives residents at Evergreen
Evergreen Country Homes and Lake Ridge Country Homes a tour of the new native planting
HOA- completed projects with funding from on their property. The project replaced 3325 square
the grant and Ramsey-Washington Metro foot of turf with native plants, creating habitat and
Watershed District. Three additional projects reducing runoff to Tamarack Nature Preserve.
will be completed next spring at Heritage Glen
and Powers Lake Townhomes in Woodbury
(South Washington Watershed) and at Lakeview Terrace in Oakdale (Ramsey-Washington Metro
Watershed). The projects include large native plantings and raingardens.
Thirty residents at Evergreen Country Homes turned out for a project celebration and tour this
fall. EMWREP plans to have similar events for the other four projects in 2017.
a
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Coming up in 2017
Project WET Teacher Training - Feb. 7, 2017
EMWREP will be sponsoring a Project WET teacher training on Feb. 7 at Warner Nature Center.
Project WET is an international water education program implemented locally by the MN DNR.All
teachers attending the training will receive a curriculum and activity guide loaded with lessons for
all ages. We will also be introducing the Minnesota "Watershed Game,"which is a fun new teaching
tool designed for grades 4-8.
The cost for the workshop is $45, which includes lunch and the curriculum guide. We'll be offering
the trainingfor free to teachers from schools in Brown's Creek, Carnelian-Marine-St.e , Carnelian Marine St. Croix, and
Comfort Lake - Forest Lake watersheds to help support a new education partnership with Warner.
Register on-line at http://tinyuri.com/projectwet2Ol6
Workshop for realtors selling lakefront and riverfront properties - March 9, 2017
EMWREP will be partnering with the St. Croix River Association and Minnesota DNR
to hold a half-day workshop for realtors on March 9. The workshop is designed to help
realtors understand local and state shoreline rules, as well as to help them answer common
questions from home buyers about beaches, docks, shoreline vegetation management,
and remodeling. The workshop will be held at the Stillwater Library. Look for a flyer with
registratoin later this winter.
a
New signs at Joy Park in Maplewood
The City of Maplewood and Valley Branch
Watershed District are working to create four new
w;s` w interpretive signs for Joy Park, which is located on the
north side of Silver Lake. The city recently added a
large public art installation to the children's play area
with a turtle-like creature for the kids to climb on. The
r u signs will have interactive components and will help to
teach visitors about the wildlife and habitat in the park
and how they can protect Silver Lake.
Questions?
Contact Angie Hong, EMWREP Coordinator, 651-330-8220 x.35 or angie.hong@mnwcd.org
Brown's Creek Watershed • Carnelian Marine - St. Croix Watershed
Comfort Lake - Forest Lake Watershed • Cottage Grove • Dellwood
Forest Lake • Grant • Hugo • Lake Elmo • Middle St. Croix Watershed
Newport Oakdale • Oak Park Heights • Ramsey - Washington Metro
Watershed • Rice Creek Watershed • Stillwater St. Paul Park ?Ea�t�oe/tro
South Washington Watershed • Valley Branch Watershed • Willernie WataerResourceEducationPrograrn
West Lakeland•Woodbury•Washington Conservation District•Washington County
20 of 29 5
Eric Johnson
From: Jay Riggs <JRiggs@mnwcd.org>
Sent: Wednesday, November 30,2016 9:01 AM
To: Jay Riggs
Subject: WCD Holiday Open House- December 14, 11:30AM-2PM
Greetings Friends and Conservation Compatriots,
2016 has been an amazing year! We would like to invite you to join us for our annual WCD Holiday Open House where
we can celebrate all of our conservation exploits and look forward to an exciting 2017.
WCD HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
Wednesday December 14,2016
11:30 AM to 2:00 PM
PLEASE RSVP by December 12 so we know how much food to provide. In addition, if you happen to have a favorite
holiday treat and made a little extra,feel free to share.
The WCD Monthly Board Meeting is will start promptly at 2:00 PM following the Open House.
Warmest Regards,
Jay
Jay Riggs, District Manager
Washington Conservation District
455 Hayward Avenue North, Oakdale, MN 55128
Office:651-330-8220 Ext.20
Cell:651-587-6622
Email: lay.risgs@mnwcd.ore
Web:www.mnwcd.org
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i
9Xll-ft,y
MIDDLE S�. CROIX WATERSHED MANAGEMENT ORGANIZATION
45 5 HAYWARD AVENUE , OAKDALE , MIN N ESTOA 55082 U'�`--1�
Phone 6 5 1 . 3 3 0 . 8 2 2 0 x 2 2 fax 6 5 1 . 3 3 0 . 7 7 4 7 www . mscwmo . org
Regular Meeting of the Middle St.Croix Watershed Management Organization MSCW
Bayport Public Library,Bayport,MN `M
Thursday,December 8,2016 `
6:OOPM ffi
1. Call to Order—6:OOPM w°°'•
2. Approval of Minutes-attached
3. Treasurer's Report
a) Report of savings account,assets for December 8,2016
b) Approve payment of bills for December 8, 2016
4. Public Comments
5. Old Business
a) None
6. New Business
a) 2017 Meeting Dates-attached
b) 2017 Review Fees-attached
7. Cost Share Program
a) Final Payment Request:St.Croix Academy Prep Cost Share-attached
8. Plan Reviews/Submittals
a) Stillwater Area Public Schools School Bus Maintenance Facility-Baytown Township-
attached
b) North Main Hotel-Stillwater-attached
9. Administrator's Report-attached
10. Adjourn
Middle St. Croix Watershed Management Organization Member Communities
Afton, Bayport, Baytown, Lakeland, Lakeland Shores, Lake St. Croix Beach,Oak Park Heights, St.Mary's Point, Stillwater, Ik West Lakeland
22 of 29
ROWN ' S
(.°)AKt1#ALE . MN
C R E E 14C
A T EP%_S H E D (95DISTRICT 1 i.:c:i5t.l5��1>?C1e. 1 t'111y1V C 1
�r WWW.liC1.+Y L7►.C1 it(.:
REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF MANAGERS
Wednesday,December 14,2016 at 6:30 PM
1. Call Regular Meeting to order
NOTE MEETING LOCATION
2. Approve Regular Meeting Agenda and Discussion Agenda Regular Board Meeting will be held at
Family Means
3. Public Comments 1875 Northwestern Ave S,
Stillwater,MN
4. Approve Board Meeting Minutes
a) October 12,2016 Regular Board meeting—Board Action
b) November 9,2016 Regular Board meeting—Board Action
5. Treasurer's Report
a) Brown's Creek Park Rock Crib—Pay Request#2—Board Action
b) Long Lake Raingardens—Pay Request#2—Board Action
c) Review Authorized Funds Spreadsheet
d) Permit Fee Statements Review
e) Current Items Payable-Board Action
6. Permits
a) BCWD Permit 04-16 Millbrook Surety Reduction Request—Board Action
7. Projects
a) Clean Water Fund Grant 2017—results of BWSR Board Meeting
b) McKusick Road Stormwater Retrofit
1) BCWD and County Cooperative Agreement—Board Action
2) Geotechnical Analysis Scope—Board Action
c) Oak Glen Golf Course Extended Vegetation Management Plan—Board Action
d) Bacteria Source Assessment Results from Human Sources
e) Lynch Lake—Fisheries Management-Board Action
8. New Business
a) Family Means 2017 Meeting Guidelines and Waiver of Liability—Board Action
b) Insurance Liability Waiver Form—Board Action
c) WCD Services Agreement 2017-18—Board Action
9. Old Business
a) Resolution 16-09 Administrative Enforcement Authority—Board Action
b) Finalize the Progress to Goals monitoring report—Board Action
10. 2017 Budget
a) Public Meeting regarding 2017 Budget and Levy
b) Resolution 16-10 Final 2017 Budget—Board Action
C) Resolution 16-11 Final 2017 Levy —Board Action
Managers:
Craig Leiser,President • Sharon Schwarze,Vice-President • Gerald Johnson,Secretary
• Connie Taillon,Treasurer • Anne Maule Miller
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11. Discussion Agenda-No Action Required
a) Administrator Updates
i) Programs:Education Update
ii) Permitting-Stillwater Readiness
iii) Citizen Advisory Committee
iv) Projects:Conservation Corps of MN Labor Grant Application,Marylane Drainage Feasibility
v) MAWD Annual Meeting Summary
b) Communications&Manager Reports
c) Holiday Gathering
d) January 2017 BCWD Board Agenda and Annual Meeting
12. Adjournment
24 of 29
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25 of 29
MAOSC State Newsletter—December 2016
State fiscal forecast"stable,"prompts special session talks
Not much has changed from a state budgeting perspective based on the fiscal forecast released Friday,Dec.2. However,the
projected financial stability apparently triggered a breakthrough on political deadlock that had stymied efforts on the bonding and
transportation bills for months.The fiscal situation was described by Minnesota Management and Budget(MMB)as"stable"based
on slightly lower revenue expectations eroding the size of the projected state surplus in FY2018-19.
The forecast for the current biennium(ending June 30,2017)indicates a net budget balance reduction of$51 million to$678 million
in surplus funds. Revenue growth is expected to slow by$467 million in the next biennium while still yielding a fairly significant
budget balance of$1.4 billion by June 30,2019 based on existing revenue and spending allocations.
The projected growth in state surplus is directly related to how legislative actions had failed to be finalized in 2016.Dollars left on
the table for tax relief and local needs would compound into a larger general fund surplus moving forward.While passing a bonding
bill,tax relief and a transportation funding bill in a possible special session was discussed in early summer,more recently the focus
has been on softening the impact of substantial MNSure premium hikes through rebates.All four issues could be addressed in a
special session tentatively set for Dec.20,based on preliminary talks Dec.2 indicating progress toward an overall agreement.
The next fiscal forecast is scheduled for release in late February.The newly projected surpluses in the forecast would be cut roughly
in half if the special session results in a mix of tax cuts and new spending.
For more information regarding the November Budget Forecast,see:
Regarding the once-again renewed special session talks,see:
Big changes for elections in Small Cities?
A handful of communities around Minnesota now hold their elections entirely by mail-in ballot.Secretary of State Steve Simon
announced he is looking to expand the current option now available only to smaller cities and townships outside of the seven-county
Twin Cities area. Simon said he would like feedback from cities on the mail ballot option,and he can be emailed at
steve.simon0state.mmus with your comments.
Current law restricts the mail-only ballot option to communities with less than 400 voters.A allowing the mail-in option to
somewhat larger cities and townships could save communities considerable election costs,Simon noted. He's looking for guidance
on how much to raise the 400 registered voter limit.
The Secretary of State continues to emphasize that the bulk of Minnesota election machines are more than 10 years old and will
need to be replaced by 2018,or 2020 at the latest.Without new machines,Simon said that breakdowns and vote-counting errors
are likely to mount as most current machines have already reached their life-expectancy limit.However,this time around no federal
funding help is expected"leaving local governments holding the bag"to pay for the state and federal mandate.Although Simon
does not have the details yet,he will be proposing"a generous match"in state funding for election equipment replacement.
MAOSC can be expected to weigh in on both the mail-in ballot option and state funding for election equipment replacement as part
of its 2017 legislative platform,and will be working directly with the Secretary of State on these proposals.
Legislative committee chairs named for 2017
Elected Republican majorities in the state House and Senate have named their policy and fiscal committee chairs for the 2017-18
biennium.The major change comes in the Senate where the majority transitions from the DFL to Republicans based on a narrow
34-33 split,while the GOP expanded their majority in the House to 76-57.
Republican Senate Majority Leader-elect Paul Gazelka of Nisswa stressed that the new structure reflects the full slate of issues
surrounding health care,announcing the issue as"our number one priority."The Health and Human Services Finance and Policy
26 of 29
Committee will be chaired by Sen.Michelle Benson of Ham Lake;the Human Services Reform Finance and Policy Committee will be
chaired by Sen.Jim Abeler of Anoka;and a third health care-related panel called the Aging and Long-Term Care Policy Committee
will be chaired by Sen.Karin Housley of St.Mary's Point.
In the House,Republicans will be growing their committee structure from 26 to 27 committees,divisions and subcommittees.
"Our committee chairs are eager to get to work tackling the critical issues facing Minnesota families,"House Speaker Kurt
Daudt(R-Crown)said in a statement."Lowering health care costs,growing good-paying jobs,and reducing the tax burden on
middle-class families will be shared priorities of Republicans in Saint Paul,and we look forward to working with the new Senate
Republican Majority to build a Minnesota that works."
For the entire list of committee assignments,see:
htta://www.senate.mn/media/ (scroll down to see Committee Chairs news release)
www.house.lea.state.mn.us/sessiondoilv/SDView.asax?StorvlD=12331
DEED funds initiatives in 2 MAOSC cities
Fledgling business initiatives in St.Charles and Cass Lake received Minnesota DEED funding in November. Recycled materials
manufacturer Envirolastech Inc.will invest$3 million and create 26 jobs at its first production facility in St.Charles.Aki Development
LLC of Cass Lake,an LED lighting assembly and testing startup,was awarded a$29,000 job-training grant.
Based in Rochester,Envirolastech indicated plans to invest$2 million for machinery and equipment and$1 million for an 18,000-
square-foot manufacturing facility at the Chattanooga Innovation Park in St.Charles.
Aki,a tribally-chartered corporation on the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Reservation,is opening an LED assembly and testing facility in
Cass Lake that will employ up to nine workers to assemble and test LED streetlights.
Governor's race for 2018 already underway
While a presidential recount in Wisconsin indicating that the 2016 election isn't entirely over yet,the 2018 race for governor in
Minnesota is already taking shape.St. Paul DFLer Erin Murphy has filed for the office and her campaign is underway.A registered
nurse and former House majority leader,the Wisconsin native has emphasized her rural roots in her visits around the state.
Murphy should expect company in the race fairly soon.Other DFLers showing apparent interest in running include Lt.Gov.Tina
Smith,former House Speaker Paul Thissen,outgoing Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk,Attorney General Lori Swanson,State
Auditor Rebecca Otto, First District Congressman Tim Walz and St.Paul Mayor Chris Coleman(among others).
On the Republican side,GOP state Chairman Keith Downey,House Speaker Kurt Daudt,Sixth District Congressman Tom Emmer,
Hennepin County Sheriff Rich Stanek,state Sen.Michelle Benson and state Rep.Matt Dean are some of the leading possibilities.
Even former governors have been the subject of speculation.Some GOP insiders have been urging Tim Pawlenty to consider another
run,and the Independence Party likely would jump at the opportunity to offer up Jesse Ventura a second time.
When Small Cities hosted POWs
As living memories from the World War II era become rarer every year,precious recollections gain value and wider interest. Many
communities across Minnesota and the nation have activities planned commemorating the 75th anniversary of Pearl Harbor on Dec.7th
World War II included some unprecedented activities on the home front.Among the less-well remembered events was the
installation of POW camps,including several located in or near MAOSC cities(listed below in bold). Farms,canneries,brickyards,
timber operations and other businesses suffered labor shortages as the overseas war effort took away a large portion of the
workforce.
Although the successor firm to the Ochs brick and tile yard in Springfield announced its permanent closure in 2016,75 years ago the
bustling factory had union employees working alongside POWs.The German prisoners came from a camp in New Ulm. Unions often
objected to the arrangement,but they were successful in insisting that companies pay the prevailing wage for POW work.The vast
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majority of the pay went to the federal government for security,travel,housing and other POW costs,but prisoners were paid about
80 cents a day.
Most Minnesota prisoners were German,but some POWs from Italy also were sent to the state.Many of the communities had large
populations of German descendents and interaction between POWs and residents was relatively common despite warnings from the
federal government not to"communicate,consort with,give aid or comfort"to the prisoners.Yet,some POW Germans relocated to
Minnesota after the war ended,and even a few marriages resulted despite the forbidden consorting.
POWs helped with harvesting in farms throughout southern Minnesota,including near Hollandale.A canning factory in Rochester
brought in prisoners from a camp in St.Charles,but a hospital laundry union was successful in blocking use of the St.Charles
prisoners.Timber industry union workers often were successful in blocking use of POWs in the northern half of the state. Orr was
slated for a POW camp,but timber union opposition halted those plans.
Other current MAOSC cities that hosted POW camps(or located nearby)include Montgomery,Ortonville,Olivia,Bird Island,Wells
and Warren. City officials in the communities where POW camps were located might want to share this little-known historical
information with their local media contacts.
Additional information is available here:
htto://collections.mnhs.ora/MNHistorvMaaazine/arti leO4/v44i08D290-303.ndf
Pre-emption issue raised in final LMC meeting
Will the state aggressively attempt to override local initiatives at the 2017 Legislative Session?
At least one state political pundit predicts that pre-emption of local ordinances will be the leading topic of debate at the State
Capitol.MinnPost reporter Peter Callaghan shared his views at the Nov.30 LMC metro meeting.Callaghan pointed to Minneapolis
and St. Paul ordinances tacking controversial living wage and paid family leave requirements triggering opposition from Republican
lawmakers who will have the majority in both the House and Senate starting in 2017.How the pre-emption legislation is crafted
could have a broader impact on ordinances beyond the Twin Cities.
In his LMC presentation,Callaghan predicted that agreement on a bonding package seems more likely than putting together a
transportation package or an increase in LGA funding. He also indicated that the 2018 Governor's race might already have an impact
on how legislative leadership is approaching the key issues.Callaghan's views were expressed before a potential breakthrough was
announced on several special session topics,including a health care premium rebate,bonding,a tax bill fix,and a transportation
package left over from 2016 session negotiations.
Officials list legislative priorities
The political landscape has changed considerably in Minnesota with the election of Donald Trump at the national level and the shift
in full legislative control to Republicans.Countering the shift,Gov. Dayton remains in office,and the new Republican control in the
Senate is very narrow at 35-34.
Small cities officials and other rural leaders are returning to the State Capitol requesting action on similar priorities expressed in the
2016 legislative session and previously.
Dave Petercnn is retiring at the end of the vear after cervine neariv 15 vears ac Minnecnta Farmers Hninn nrPcidant_ Reflertina nn
the changing rural scene,Peterson expressed concerns in a Nov.23 StarTribune column by Lori Sturdevant.State and national policies
should be built on the notion of"a right to be rural"—that is,a right to public services of a quality comparable to those in the metro area,
at a comparable cost,Peterson commented,as paraphrased by the columnist."Peterson's'right to be rural'ideas start with the basics—
education and transportation at an affordable tax price.They extend to available,affordable health pre and broadband service.They
include government support for small-business expansion in Greater Minnesota that's on par with what government might do for a large
employer in the Twin Cities,"Sturdevant added,again reflecting the thoughts of the outgoing Farmers Union president.
City officials contacted for this newsletter also had economic development needs listed at the top of their priority lists,and
designated more specific concerns that need addressing to benefit their communities. Melrose City Administrator Michael Brethorst
wasn't given enough time to consult with his city council members when asked,but offered his personal perspective on the highest
28 of 29
priorities.Funding to DEED specifically for the Greater Minnesota Business Development Public Infrastructure(BDPI)grants and the
Workforce Housing Development Program initiatives tops his list. Brethorst would also like to see local road and bridge funding
made available through bonding appropriations.
Mayor Lois M.Nelson of Medford has several priorities on her list,some targeted specifically to Medford needs,and others
recognizing challenges across the rural areas of the state.An outlier in several ways,Medford serves as ao outsized regional retail
center with a relatively small tax base in need of a municipal building-fire hall,city hall and community room."Our community
residents and businesses can't handle this sizeable tax increase,"Nelson said,but the city's existing facilities are undersized and at
the end of their useful life.Medford is seeking state bonding help for the public safety portions of new facilities costs.In addition,
Mayor Nelson would like to see LGA changes because comparable communities are receiving as much as$500,000 more annually
from the formula.
From a broader perspective, Mayor Nelson would like to see greater state emphasis on sewer and water improvements because
"saving streams,rivers and lakes from runoff pollution is a challenge."Although Medford has access to adequate broadband service,
Nelson sympathizes with communities in need of improved access."Our whole state needs to be wired to the world I"Nelson also
offered her hopes for civility."If work can be done in an amicable climate by our elected leaders,that would be refreshing!"
To read the entire Lori Sturdevant column on Doug Peterson,see:
http://www.startribune.cominealected-the-path-to-winning-rural-minnesota-votes/4O27793961
MAOSC meeting set Jan.18 at LMC building
The MAOSC Board of Directors will be meeting Wednesday,Jan.18 at the League of Minnesota Cities Building,145 University Ave.
W(corner of Rice St.),from 3-5 p.m.
If members planning to attend the meeting express interest,a tour of the newly remodeled State Capitol will be arranged prior to
the scheduled board meeting.Please contact Jill Sletten at islettenAsiettenagpp.com if you'd like to join the tour.
Office seeker wins Elgin Council race instead
It isn't everyday that someone running for one office finds themselves elected to another post on election day.That's exactly what
happened for Elise Diesslin who unsuccessfully sought the state House seat held by Mazeppa Republican Rep.Steve Drazkowski. In
her first campaign,Diessen,26,would up unexpectedly getting elected to the city council in her hometown MAOSC member city
Elgin instead.
The Elgin city council had two open at-large seats,but only incumbent Craig Ziebell filed for council election.He received support
from 93 percent of voters,and Diesslin received five write-in votes to claim the second council seat.
The situation of seeking election to one office but claiming another in the same election does not come up often in Minnesota where
state law bars candidates from filing for more than one elective office. However,some states allow incumbent office holders to seek
a higher office simultaneously.
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