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HomeMy WebLinkAboutweekly notes - September 21st 2018 CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS=WEEKLY NOT or: September 21�`,2018 TO: City Council Memb etra FROM: Eric Johnson,City AdmZoning and Development Items:1. No new applications have been received. 2. Night work is completed at the Palmer Station development as is much of the City utility work,however the stormwater work connecting into Oakgreen Place is planned soon. 3. At this time,Staff understands that Xcel Energy has reached some kind of valuation settlement with the State of Minnesota relative to their property values;we do not know what these yet may be;Xcel is attempting to set up a meeting with City and County for next week.We have asked for data to be available prior to the meeting.This is particularly an issue as Xcel Energy just last week desired to discuss moving forward with longer term joint discussion about closures, values, etc...yet they hold a side conversation with the State which may have a significant impact on the City's 2019 budget.More to come. 4. One written comment was received as of this time about the no wake zone—it is enclosed. 5. Washington County continues to pursue their roadway jurisdictional study which OPH did decline to participate; however, I have enclosed their most recent meeting summary and 2040 traffic forecast map. Mayor McComber provided: 1. METRO CITIES NEWS-9/21/18 2. NLC Weekly for 9-15-18 3. MAOSC Newsletter for 9/17/18 4. GREATER MSP—Welcome week program 5. First Resource Bank-Open House-Invitation. 6. A copy of a letter from various metropolitan mayors—advocating the continuance of the MET COUNCIL as a Metropolitan Planning Or-ganization(MPO). Please let me know if you have any questions-651-253-7837 Call Anytime. 1 of 23 JOHN A. KAISER MARCIA R. VAN BEEK 3153 ST. CROIX TRAIL N OAK PARK HEIGHTS, MN 55082 September 21, 2018 N o \jA14 r Co m m f N 7 City Council of Oak Park Heights C/O City Administrator Eric Johnson Sent via Email Dear City Council: Thank you for sending us the notice of the public hearing on the possible no wake zone in front of the Sunnyside Marina. We cannot attend the hearing due to scheduling conflicts, so we will state our support of the proposed no wake zone with this letter. We strongly support the proposed no wake zone for safety reasons. We launch and take out our 17 foot runabout at the Sunnyside boat landing, as do many other boaters. We had no problems during the temporary no wake zone while the new bridge was under construction. This year, it has not only been very difficult, but also unsafe. Our boat gets thrashed around by wakes, as we are trying to position it on the trailer, and it is difficult to hang onto at the dock. We can see that the boaters at the marina are constantly dealing with the effects of the wakes, both at the gas dock and in their slips. Based on the above, we urge you to recommend to the DNR that a no wake zone be established. Thank you. Very truly yours, -a).W. A�� John A. Kaiser 2 of 23 ton County WSB St. Croix Valley Roadway Jurisdiction Study Washington County North Shop, 11660 Myeron Road N Wednesday,September 19,2018 Project Management Team Meeting #5 Summary 1. Introductions In attendance: Washington County-Andrew Giesen,Joe Gustafson,Frank Ticknor City of Bayport-Matt Klein West Lakeland Township-Dave Schultz MnDOT-Adam Josephson WSB-Jack Corkle,Andy Hingeveld 2. Functional Classification Recommendations • Jack Corkle provided an overview on the functional classification analysis completed over the last two months.Since the last PMT meeting,county staff and W5B met in August to discuss the evaluation criteria table and recommended functional classification changes. in September,county staff discussed recommendations internally and with Shawn Sanders. • Andy Hingeveld presented the recommended functional classification changes for each roadway segment based on the analysis provided in the evaluation criteria table. The group provided the following considerations: — Segment 6(south frontage road)-Adam Josephson said that a Cooperative Agreement project was awarded to remove the Osgood Avenue/60th Street intersection(west leg) and tie the 60th Street frontage road in to the 59th Street intersection. The group discussed that this could help extend the south frontage road continuity west of Osgood Avenue.As a result,the recommended functional classification for Segment 6 was suggested to be revised to Major Collector. — Segment 16(Olive Street)-The group discussed the A-Minor Arterial continuation of Greeley Street to CR 55/CSAH 3 north. With the one block separation Greeley Street and Owens Street,the group discussed Myrtle Street and Olive Street as route connections. Current traffic control and traffic patterns were considered.Joe Gustafson said that 3 of 23 both Olive Street and Myrtle Street may be appropriate as arterials since they each serve certain routes/travel patterns. — Segment 20(Stonebridge Trail/CSAH 5)-Andrew Giesen suggested considering this segment as a Minor Collector, not Local,as it does support connectivity between TH 95 and TH 96. • Joe Gustafson suggested evaluating 60th Street and 58th Street(between Stillwater Boulevard/CSAH 5 and Oakgreen Avenue)as potential collector routes(which best fits the criteria as a collector?)to provide a continuous collector route south of TH 36. • Based on a previous discussion with Shown Sanders,Andrew Giesen requested that WSB evaluate city state aid designations and potential state aid route changes for Stillwater should city roads be changed to county roads. This will help determine how state aid route revisions could be made if jurisdictional changes would result in a net increase/decrease in system mileage from the city's current system mileage. 3. Traffic Forecasts Update • Jack provided a summary of the traffic forecasting process used to generate 2040 daily traffic volumes for the study road segments. The results were provided in two maps. The first map provides daily traffic volumes per segment in the following timeframes:prior to St. Croix bridge opening(2014-2016),after the St. Croix bridge opening(2018), and 2040 forecast volume. The second map shows the 2040 forecast volume along with 2040 volumes for several other major roadways in the area. • A few changes to the second map(2040 Traffic Volume Forecasts)were discussed: Add volume for Osgood Avenue south of TH 36 Correct volume of Chestnut Street near old river crossing Update future alignment of CSAH 141CSAH 15 intersection -- Add volumes for Washington Avenue and Norell Avenue at TH 36 • Joe Gustafson suggested using the traffic forecasts to evaluate interchange spacing on TH 36. 4. Action Items / Next Steps • The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 15th at 2:OOpm. Meeting location will be at the Washington County Public Works Building. • PMT members are asked to review and provide any comments on the Functional Classification Recommendations in the next two weeks. • PMT members are also asked to share the information provided at each meeting with their respective agencies throughout the course of the study. • WSB will update the 2040 Traffic Volume Forecasts map based on received comments. • WSB will begin the Jurisdictional Analysis for the study roadways based on the functional classification recommendations. • WSB will evaluate the City of Stillwater road system for potential state aid routes should designation changes be needed. 4 of 23 r r M z Pi No-i-11 Township w shl water ems' P � 8 SI-W i r a fit r-^ ..__ i I,`PINE T W 55 �, f. f. PO�-3670' r4100 6780; 3 - CHURCHILL"ST W I - .�ey/y, .e 13� •., gELl.WUOC Lu 1 W Mmasraetioa ' MWO slag B4 S t i I I water 3740 • i t u00 as '� I- atr777 srN See Box 1 64 a ! g I.._. I u � A ura aszg 3TlU 4R to Elmo C_ boo 34W a.. � _M), " uY-P Orta,I j, 835 anrarx � 4� � F �.. X00 W Baytown T o w n ship No i 1390WMSTM ttio - — 2040 Traffic Volume ! r 2,000-4,999 5,000-9,999 I ° We s V,,,L a k"slam¢,'; 10,000-14,999 ( To In nishtp _ �, 20IOBTIN >=ts.aoo I 3== 380 i ©Clty/TownshOBoundary i Sour -Washington County Trrvel Demand Model,SW Wachingma County Traffic Model Updge(FEB2018),&W93 2040 Thaac VONme Fareeasb Tarlhe 8L Crdx Vali ay RoadwayJudedctlonel 8hH1)r(SEP72018)...... i�' 2040 Traffic Volume Forecasts N YYd4&VItion St.Croix Valley 0 3,500 Ilk Roadway Jurisdiction Study A EMMEMK===Feet WSB 5 0� Washington County,MN ANNEIMM Current/Archived Newsletters - Metro Cities Pagel of 4 CETRO CITIES Association of Metropolitan Municipalities Search GO Metro Cities News September 21, 2018 ` Have you hearts the latest? TAB Recommends Adoption of Follow us on Tw ter. Transportation Policy Plan This week, the Transportation Advisoryilrw■■r. Board (TAB) recommended adoption of the regional 2040 Transportation Policy Plan (TPP),following a public comment period. ,OWN" The TPP plays a central role in the regional transportation planning process and is updated every four years. In The Metropolitan Council received approximately 300 comments from 150 RAMI. individuals and organizations.According to *N"iNWW' Council staff, comments included a suggestion to convert the current transit 11%E na fleet to electric powered vehicles, support for implementation of a free fare system, concerns about law enforcement interactions on transit, and general support for more funding for highway and transit systems. Minor changes to the plan were made based on comments. Based on feedback related to law enforcement interactions on transit systems, changes were also made to the safety and security In Current/Archived goal that would ensure that public safety Newsletters: and law enforcement agencies that operate Archives on the public transit system do not perpetuate racial inequities. The Metropolitan Council will consider the plan 6 of 23 hqs://www.metrocitiesmn.org/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&SEC=%7b3738C3AO-I B97-4... 9/21/2018 Current/Archived Newsletters - Metro Cities Page 2 of 4 for adoption in October. To see the draft and comments report, click Questions? Please contact Steve Huser at �IJkJd-LL ,Vi1J I vJ or651- 215-4003. Regional Solicitation Update The Transportation Advisory Board (TAB) heard an update on the current Regional Solicitation for federal funds. So far, $419 million in projects have been applied for, and approximately$200 million will be available to the region. For more information on the Regional Solicitation update, click The TAB made a project eligibility determination. The Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) had asked the TAB to determine the eligibility and a funding category for a project related to a shared mobility fleet of vehicles. The TAB elected to score this project in the Unique Project category, after scoring of other projects is complete. Council staff were also directed to bring a formal process plan for projects that do not fit within funding categories. For more information on the project eligibility, click Questions? Please contact Steve Huser at or 651- 215-4003. Census Outreach Continues with Training Sessions Minnesota's 2020 Census efforts continue with a new series of technical assistance for communities. The Minnesota Demographic Center invites city officials to participate in a series of monthly conference calls dedicated to answering questions about forming and managing a Complete Count Committee (CCC). This is a chance for participants to ask questions, learn from each other, and let state census staff know what cities need to succeed. Every third Thursday of the month, Andrew Virden, director of census operations and engagement for the Minnesota State Demographic Center, will be on hand from noon to 1:00 pm to provide guidance, share 7 of 23 https://www.metrocitiesmn.orglindex.asp?Type=B BASIC&SEC=O/o7b3738C3AO-1B97-4... 9/21/2018 Current/Archived Newsletters -Metro Cities Page 3 of 4 what other local CCCs are doing, and update participants with the latest 2020 Census news from the Census Bureau and the State of Minnesota. Date:Third Thursdays of every month Time: Noon to 1:00 pm Dial-in number: (888) 742-5095 Conference Code: 5972753363 Census staff is also hosting a half-day workshop this coming Monday: Date: Monday, September 24 Time: 9 am to noon Location: Sunrise Bank Headquarters, 2525 Wabash Avenue, St. Paul, MN, 55114 Reservations are requested. Contact Andrew Virden at „ , or at 651- 201-2507 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 email newsletter(&-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 www.MetroCitiesMN.oru Home I About Us I Metro Cides Members I Board of Directors I Legislature I MdmPolitan Council I Metro Ckles Task Force Report on MetroWlten Govemance I Prows and Publicatlons I Legislative Policies I Policy Committees I CurrwVArchived Newslettem I Metropolitan Area Management 8 of 23 https://www.metrocitiesmn.org/index.asp?Type=B BASIC&SEC=%7b3738C3A0-1B97-4... 9/21/2018 Eric Johnson From: Mary Mccomber <marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Saturday,September 15, 2018 9:56 AM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: Introducing City Fiscal Conditions 2018 For weekly notes ----Original Message--- From: National League of Cities<news@nlc.org> To: marymccomber<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Sat, Sep 15, 2018 6:01 am Subject: Introducing City Fiscal Conditions 2018 View in browser NATIONAL LEAGUE • I i Y V~ -v" yr_ i7 T a t S i Introducing City Fiscal Conditions 2018 9 of 23 In America's cities, our changing national economy has a major influence on budgetary concerns and future outlooks. Released this week, our 2018 City Fiscal Conditions survey indicates that slightly more finance officers than last year are optimistic about the fiscal capacity of their cities. However, the level of optimism is still far below recent years. Furthermore, tax revenue growth is experiencing a year-over-year slowdown, with the growth in service costs and other expenditures outpacing it. Taken together, the survey results suggest that cities are approaching the limits of fiscal expansion. How to Prepare for Hurricane Florence As Hurricane Florence makes landfall on the coast of �IVACUA11'01N, ,",' ROUTE the Carolinas, NLC has partnered with IBTS to offer practical preparedness strategies for city leaders. WWI Why Workforce Development Matters for Mayors This year, 58 percent of state of the city speeches included economic development and workforce development as the top priority for mayors. Ocala, Florida's Fiber Delivering for Decades An 1995, when city leaders in Ocala, Florida, realized it was time to replace copper connections between utility substations, they chose an unusual path. News z 10 of 23 As Economy Booms, U.S. Cities Report Slowing Revenue Growth Bloomberg— September 13, 2018 Sacramento, Clear Channel, Polaris Partner to Fight Human Trafficking CitiesSpeak— September 11, 2018 A Troubling Trend for Cities: Slowing Revenue But Rising Spending Growth Governing— September 13, 2018 How The Loss of Advance Refundings is Hurting Cities Bond Buyer— September 13, 2018 City Revenue Growth Is Slowing Down Route Fifty— September 13, 2018 Announcements More local solar energy development means cleaner air, increased resiliency, and more well-paying jobs in cities across the country. There are only a few more days for cities to enter NLC's 2018 SolSmart City Challenge, a national competition for cities to showcase their support for solar energy. See the requirements and apply before the deadline here. Mayoral Views on Racism and Discrimination, a new report from the National League of Cities (NLC) and Boston University Initiative on Cities (IOC), explores how large city mayors understand race, discrimination and equity in their community. The report, written with support from The Rockefeller Foundation, also highlights how mayors are taking action to promote equity in their communities. Join NLC and IOC on September 17 for a webinar exploring the report's findings. Events Nov. 7-10 City Summit 2018 (Los Angeles) 3 11 of 23 Job Postings Chief Financial Officer— Portland, Oregon City Manager— DeKalb, Illinois Finance Director—West Fargo, North Dakota imLEA" 190FCME1 You may opt out of email communications from NLC at any time. Update your communication preferences. This message was intended for: marymccomber@aol.com 660 North Capitol Street, NW, Suite 450 Washington, DC 20001 Privacy Policy ©2018 NLC, All Rights Reserved Powered by Higher Logic 4 12 of 23 MAOSC State Newsletter—September 17,2018 Small Cities issues raised in DC A delegation of municipal officials representing the Minnesota Association of Small Cities(MAOSC)brought forward issues of concern to members of the state Congressional delegation when lawmakers returned to Washington,D.C.just after Labor Day from their August recess.MAOSC board members John Douville,Lori Jorgenson,Shannon Mortenson,Wendy Pederson,Tina Rennemo and Jonathan Smith were joined by Executive Director Jill Sletten for the meetings on Sept.5-6. Among the topics addressed were federal grant streamlining,water infrastructure,transportation and other economic development issues facing small cities across Minnesota.A special report on the MAOSC trip to the nation's Capitol will be sent to you soon. Governor Candidate Survey MAOSC has sent out a questionnaire to the two major-parry candidates for Governor—Republican Jeff Johnson and DFLer Tim Walz —seeking their positions on major state issues of concern such as Local Government Aid,City Streets funding,broadband,water infrastructure,workforce shortages,housing and rural health care.Survey responses will be shared via a newsletter special report. Women in Government Awards The deadline is nearing to submit nominations for the Women in Municipal Government(WIMG)Leadership Award sponsored by the National League of Cities(NLC).The nomination deadline is Friday,Sept.28.The goal of this award program is to promote women in local government and encourage more women to run for municipal elected office. City staff,constituents and fellow elected officials can nominate a female leader who inspires them.Finalists for the award will be honored at the WIMG Luncheon and Membership Meeting during the NLC City Summit,Nov.7-10,2018 in Los Angeles. For more information: https://www.nlc.om/nominate someone-for-the-wima-leadership-award Nominations: http://www.emailmeform.com/builder/formlHevfTs6caR3m82UiSN13kYric State Housing Report In recent years,availability of housing has become an emerging crisis in a growing number of communities,including many of our small cities.Workforce Housing is the most recently identified major state legislative concern identified by MAOSC.Last month,the Governor's Task Force on Housing released its comprehensive 72-page report featuring 80 recommended changes in financing, regulations,as well as social and public policy priorities to address the wide array of critical housing needs. Partnering with the private sector is essential to achieving housing success.The task force study highlighted its"Leveraging Local Employers"segment on page 42 with the success achieved by MAOSC member city Perham where a cross-section of local employers have provided critical financial leverage and helped build community support for new,affordable homeownership activities. Although the report does not focus heavily on Workforce Housing approaches specifically,one of the six main goals stresses the need to"preserve the homes we have."Many of our small cities also identify the need to restore and maintain aging residential housing stock that provides for an affordable home option. As for existing state efforts available to small cities,the Workforce Housing Development Program application deadline is fast approaching.Minnesota Housing is accepting applications until Oct.11 at 4:30 pm for up to$1.9 million in grant or deferred loan funds. See: http://www.mnhousina.00v/wcsISatellitek=Pane&cid=1503450639018&oaoenome=External%2FPaae%2FEXrStandardLayout Housing Task Force Report,see: httn•//mn coy/aov-sta pdflHousina%2OTask%20Force%2OReport FINAL ndf AM Minn "LPolitical l Scene Our feature segment"Minn Political Scene"keeps you updated with brief mentions of particularly notable activities throughout this busy election year. Last month we reported mostly on the governor's race following the two closely contested primary races decided on Aug.14.This month we will focus on how federal races for the U.S.Senate and Congress are likely to shape the political debate leading up to the Nov.6 general election.Across the country,political tensions are focused on partisan battles,investigations,personalities and divisive national issues.This national political trend is magnified in Minnesota where we feature the unusual situation of both U.S. 13 of 23 Senate seats on the ballot(for the first time in 40 years),and indications that no less than four Congressional seats are highly targeted nationally as swing seats drawing in very large campaign spending amounts from outside of the state. Targeted Congressional races have been clearly identified in Districts 1,2,3 and 8. In the First District,the seat held by Tim Walz for the past 12 years will be filled by a new face.Republican Jim Hagedorn probably has a name-recognition advantage,having run twice previously for the Walz seat.Democrat Dan Feehan,a political newcomer,is a middle school teacher and Iraq war veteran. In the Second District,first-term Republican incumbent Jason Lewis faces a rematch with former health care executive Angie Craig. The Democrat fell short in 2016 by less than a 2 percent margin. The gloves are off already in the Third District where supporters of Republican incumbent Erik Paulson and Democratic challenger Dean Phillips have launched highly negative,personal attack TV ads and responses. After two six-year stints serving in Congress in different districts spanning four decades, Rick Nolan is stepping down in Eighth District.Republican Pete Stauber,a St.Louis county commissioner,had nominal primary opposition.His Democratic opponent, former legislator Joe Radinovich,emerged from a multi-candidate primary field that lacked a parry endorsement coming out of the congressional district convention. Some national attention is focusing on the special U.S.Senate election to fill the remainder of Al Franken's term ending in 2020,but it is too early to tell whether the race between appointed incumbent Democrat Tina Smith and Republican state senator Karin Housley will reach the top rung of campaign targeting and subsequent outside spending.In the other U.S.Senate race,incumbent Democrat Amy Klobuchar has already opened up her vast campaign war chest.Republican Jim Newberger,who represents the Becker area in the state House,will be waging an uphill battle against Klobuchar. Even in a lower level statewide race,the national political scene enters heavily into the Attorney General's race.DFL candidate Keith Ellison is the deputy chair of the Democratic National Committee and has pushed for litigating alleged national transgressions at the state level.Republicans have responded by indicating that they will attempt to tie personal allegations against Ellison to other DFL candidates across the state. The big question for those of us who are strongly invested in key issues facing our communities and the state is,"What happens if the public loses sight of vital local concerns and the public process in Saint Paul?"As local elected officials and staff in Minnesota's small cities,our role in monitoring,informing and influencing legislators and state policymakers is more important than ever. The Secretary of State lists 2018 candidates at the federal,state and legislative levels here: httos.Ilcandidates.sos.state.mn.us/ MAOSC Fall Retreat set The annual MAOSC Fall Retreat Is set for Friday,Oct.5,1:30 to 6 pm in member city Grand Marais.We're hoping to still have some fall color that weekend,but surely will enjoy the autumn weather either way. The retreat is timed for planning our work in the year ahead.Priorities will be set for addressing the major issues to be considered at the state legislative and federal levels.At the state level in 2019,MAOSC will be working with a new governor and the state biennial budget will be set for FY2020-21.At the federal level,the recent Washington,DC trip will be reviewed. �1� ,�, , Minnesota Association of Small Cities Shorts Minnesota Small Cities'Shorts "Small Cities'Shorts"are brief yet noteworthy items featuring MAOSC member cities and officials.Readers can submit potential Small Cities'Shorts or other feature ideas by emailing James Robins at. inr@iamesrobins.com. The Perham city council is keeping busy on a two fronts—looking to the future and battling county over-reach.The council has approved a five-year plan for streets and utilities: http//www perhamfocus co /news/government-and noliti 4497403-city-council-approves-five-year-capital-improvement plan 14 of 23 Just like many other cities across the state,Perham has responsibility to license tobacco retailers.City manager Jon Smith questions the statutory authority of Otter Tail County to adopt an ordinance that raises the tobacco purchase age to 21 as applied to sales by retailers within the city's jurisdiction: httn://www.nerhamfocus.com/news/aovernment-and-politics/4489013-city-aerham-kicks-back-t-2l-ordinance-roisina-purchase-ape It has been a full year since the St.Croix River Crossing opened-Dak Park Heiahts Mayor and MAOSC President Mary McComber was instrumental in representing her community's interests in the complex project,and she comments on progress and the outlook: http://www.startribune.com/after-first-year-the-bridge-marks-change-in-the-st-croix-valley/490638801f Big city headline writers don't always reflect what's written in stories about smaller communities.This feature on the Small Cities Development Program presents a more-balanced narrative,and highlights the water infrastructure projects funded in several communities,including Clarkfield and Winger: http://www.startribune.com/federal-grants-prop-ua small-minnesota-towns/492304501/ The politically difficult challenge of raising city council salaries has been addressed in Medford where the rate of compensation hadn't been changed in 15 years: http://www.southemminn.comlfaribault daily news/news/article e987a06c-c98d-5356-82cc-7e4976c2e04f html Phase Two of the city infrastructure project in Ostrander is underway with MAOSC sponsor Bolton&Menk consulting on timelines,funding and scope: http:/lfiilmorecountviournai.coml strander-water-and-well-issues/ The city council in Welcome has opted for a trial period before agreeing to arrangements with LTD Broadband: htto.11www.fairmontsentinel.com/newsAocal-news/2018/09/06/welcome-to-try4td-broodband% Government Innovation Awards The Local Government Innovation Awards recognize the creative ways counties,cities,townships,schools and Native nations are making Minnesota better and doing things differently.All types of local government innovation are encouraged to enter. Entries submitted to host organization University of Minnesota are now open,and will be accepted until Oct.5,2018. Up to 20 local government entities will be recognized as award winners for their innovation.The winner in each of the four categories will also receive a professional video highlighting their work and a grant from the Bush Foundation to continue local government innovation and redesign. For more information and entry forms,see: .'�,.�,.,c'f%11, 1,�111",r;;� ,) MnDOT project selection process The Minnesota Department of Transportation(MnDOT)was directed by the Legislature to develop and implement a new transparent and objective project selection policy by Nov. 1,2018.A draft policy is now available for review with feedback to MnDOT due by Oct.5,2018. Before adopting the final policy,MnDOT is consulting with the Federal Highway Administration, metropolitan planning organizations,regional development commissions,area transportation partnerships,local governments and other transportation stakeholders. Project selection is the decision to fund a highway construction project and add it to the list of planned and programmed projects. The new project selection policy will be implemented with the 2020-2023 State Transportation Improvement Program and 2020- 2029 Capital Highway Investment Plan. For more information and to provide feedback,see: http://www.dotstate.mn.us/proiectselection/ On a related road funding front, MAOSC will be working closely with LMC and other city organizations to restore and enhance the Local Road Improvement Program(LRIP)funding lost in last-minute legislative shifts inserted at the end of 2018 bonding bill,which reduced the expected undesignated funding from$35 million to$20 million. Based on the reduced LRIP funds available,MnDOT has decided against soliciting applications in 2018.Instead,funding will be distributed to the existing list of eligible requests from 2017. 15 of 23 AV cityscapes Slice of We in Small Cities A lot of interesting things are happening in small cities all across Minnesota.On occasion,we learn about these happenings and report on them in our newsletter.We want to expand on these items in a more organized way,so we have decided to start a new feature segment called cityscapes. The new feature segment won't be limited to what's happening in city government.Although we surely want to hear about the innovations taking place in government,we also want to include unique human interest stories that have a more general appeal. With more than 700 small cities(population 5,000 and under)across Minnesota,we're sure that many compelling yarns are just waiting to be told. One of the inspirations for this feature segment came not long ago when the Star Tribune featured the remarkable 11-year winning streak for the girls'basketball team from Grand Meadow spanning 1929 to 1939.The steak ended because the team disbanded— due to lack of competition.Girls'sports were largely phased out starting in the 1940s until the resurgence in the early 1970s fostered by Title IX requirements.We imagine that another MAOSC member city—Fosston—has a compelling story to tell about the modern-day record their girls'basketball team accomplished by compiling 78 consecutive victories from 1999 through 2002. See: htto://www.startribune.com/the-airts-of-grand-meadow-minnesotas-best-kept sports-dvnostvsecr /490269331/ We mention these particular sports feats,but many other types of local-interest stories are just waiting to be told.Let us know what gripping tale your community has to offer—and we'll look into it.Please share your cityscapes ideas with MAOSC communications specialist James Robins by calling or texting him at 612-597-0214,or by email at inriggiamesrobins.com. -END- 16 of 23 M',N^) w1, VELC0M1'= WEEK MAKE IT ALLAW WELCOM mile" HWEIV Join the welcome wagon, September 23- 29 Did you know hundreds of people move to the Greater Minneapolis-Saint Paul region each and every week from around the country and the world? One of their top challenges is making meaningful connections in their new home. Partners are working together to launch MSP Welcome Week to serve as a rally cry for the region, introducing people to projects like MSP Hello that exist year-round, as well as individuals and organizations working to help welcome our new neighbors in a variety of ways. This video from MSP Hello coordinator Michelle Tran Maryns and friends previews the week. 2 17 of 23 Visit the MSP Welcome -- Discover a Signature Event Incredible partners are stepping up to open their doors and welcome all at these signature MSP Welcome Week events throughout the week: • Pohlad Companies with support from the Minnesota Twins ball club at Target Field Free events are open to all, from newcomers to • Minnesota Historical Society long-time residents interested in saying welcome! at Minnesota History Center • Science Museum of Minnesota at BlackStack Brewing • Young Professionals of Minneapolis at Walker Art Center • The Coven at their co-working and event space • International Institute of Minnesota at their office in Saint Paul • Upper Midwest Higher Education Recruiting Consortium at Lake Monster Brewing 3 18 of 23 • Bartmann Group at Tiny Diner restaurant Drop in a meet up or host your a own Volunteers throughout the region are hosting meet ups in their own communities. Find one near you or pitch in by planning your own: Volunteers are starting to sign up to host a meet 0 Bald Man Brewing in Eagan up in their community. Interested in hosting you're . Crooners Lounge in Fridley own? WeW help you get the word out. 9 Builders Association in Roseville • ModernWell and Book Club restaurant in Minneapolis More meet ups are on the way. Plus, you can stop in during the week to the Minneapolis Visitor Center to learn more. III AJIIJJ1'q. .- $r Other ways you can help welcome There are plenty of ways to help out during the week. Here are a few to get started: 4 19 of 23 • Spread the word:We need everyone's help to get the word out and let people know about the week. Share the MSP Welcome Week website on your channels using #MSPwelcome • Volunteer at an event: Free to help us greet and welcome at one of the week's events or meet ups? Sign up using this form and our team will get back to you • Get trained over dinner: We will kick off the week with a special partner and volunteer dinner from Marnita's Table. Click here to join in and build your authentic welcoming skills • Discover the Welcoming America campaign.Amazing partners are working together through a national welcoming initiative. Learn more about local projects from the City of Minneapolis, James J. Hill Center, YMCA Twin Cities, and more GREATER MSP Minneapolis Saint Paul Regional Economic Development Partnership Questions?E-mail Make It.MSP.Director Matt Lewis at Manage your preferences I Opt out using TrueRemove D Got this as a forward?Sign up to receive our future emalls View this email online 400 Robert St North Suite 1600 Saint Paul, MN 155101 US This email was sent to matt lewis@greatermsp org �� g To continue receiving our emalls, add us to your address gook ULI Fall Meeting—Join more than 6,000 real estate industry leaders. October 8-111 Boston 5 20 of 23 FIRST RES{O}URCE BANK A TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 3 : 00pm-5 : 00pm 1946 Washington Ave. S., Stillwater, MN Catering provided by Water Street Inn! CHAMBER 21 of 23 September 19,2018 The Honorable John Thune Chairman, Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation United States Senate The Honorable Bill Nelson Ranking Member,Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation United States Senate Dear Senator Thune and Senator Nelson: As local elected officials in the Twin Cities metropolitan area,we are writing to ask you to oppose the inclusion of any language that would repeal Minnesota's Metropolitan Council as the Metropolitan Planning Organization(MPO)in a Senate FAA bill and any final conference report.Language repealing MN's MPO is included in HF 4-FAA bill and is opposed by the majority of locally elected officials in the Twin Cities metropolitan area. A repeal of Minnesota's MPO would eliminate a 50-year old regional structure and endanger the Twin Cities region from receiving federal funds for transportation projects that serve as vital economic drivers and serve thousands of residents and businesses. Minnesota's MPO is highly functional,transparent and accountable. The Metropolitan Council has performed the MPO function,with a Transportation Advisory Board,of whom a majority are local officials, for 45 years. Federal funds are distributed in a consistently proportionate fashion across the metropolitan area, and all counties and cities - from large to small and across the region-have a voice on the allocation of funds. Minnesota's regional structure is the envy of many jurisdictions across the country. Eliminating Minnesota's MPO puts billions of dollars in federal funding for roads and transit and the work being done by state and local officials in Minnesota to support infrastructure to serve the region in peril. This is an issue with high stakes for Minnesota and its local communities, and any decision regarding Minnesota's regional structure should rest with state and local officials,rather than the federal government. This is an ill- advised and harmful proposal for Minnesota. In addition to serving as the MPO,the Metropolitan Council provides a wide range of regional services and infrastructure, and its structure was deliberately designed to provide an optimal structure for doing so. The Council's structure allows for services and infrastructure to be provided cost-effectively and in close coordination with local governments,while allowing local officials to maintain the necessary autonomy to govern their municipalities. 22 of 23 As local elected officials serving communities in the Twin Cities region,we urge you to ensure any language repealing Minnesota's MPO is excluded from a final conference report. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, _,�JrA4� __.,2 Mary =asch,Mayor,City of Lauderdale James Hovland,Mayor, City of Edina and P esident,Metro Cities Elizg a Kautz, a i of Burnsville Nanc T a-L en Mayor, City of Eden Prairie J et W'lliams,M or, City of Savage ;rA�d�w�ieir'sum,Mayor, City of Minnetonka --;"/ail s. Sandra in,Mayor City f Shoreview Myron ailey,May , City of Cottage Grove 4-1 � 7 X1�44 Kath Hemken, or, City of New Hope Scott Lund ayor, City of Fridley Nor IS a k,Mayor, City of Maplewood Mary Comber,Mayor, City of Oak Park L �_��� Heights G � ury George T ille, Mayor, City of Inver Paul Hicks,Mayor, City of Hastings Grove Heights Molly Cummings, Mayor, City of Hopkins Ja� Spano,Mayor, City of Saint Louis Park ene Wstead, Mayor, City of Shepard Harris,Mayor, City of Golden Valley Bloomington Jo erson,Mayor, City of White Bear Gary H en, Councilmember, City of Eagan L e Cc: The Honorable Amy Klobuchar,United States Senate The Honorable Tina Smith,United States Senate 23 of 23