HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-12-06 Planning Memorandum T P C 3601 Thurston Avenue N.Suite 100
Anoka,MN 55303
Phone:763.231.5840
Facsimile:763.427.0520
TPC@ PlanningCo.com
MEMORANDUM
TO: Eric Johnson
FROM: Scott Richards
DATE: December 6,2018
RE: Oak Park Heights—Comprehensive Plan 2018
TPC FILE: 226.10
METROPOLITAN COUNCIL PRELIMINARY REVIEW
On November 13, 2018, the City received the preliminary comments from the
Metropolitan Council regarding the draft Comprehensive Plan. Please find attached the
letter and the changes that have been made to the Comprehensive Plan to address the
comments provided by Metropolitan Council staff. Only those sections and maps that
have been amended are included. In many of the sections, there were no or minor
amendments.
The amendments are summarized below following the format of the Metropolitan
Council letter. Please note that there is an overlap of page numbers. Once the draft is
finalized the page numbers will be realigned. A public hearing has been scheduled for
the December 12, 2018 Planning Commission meeting regarding the amendments to
the Comprehensive Plan.
Forecasts(Page 2 of Metropolitan Council Letter)
1. The household's number was corrected in the table on page 57.
2. The revised employment forecasts were updated in the table on page 57.
3. The land use table and associated text was updated on pages 75 and 76.
4. The TAZ forecast table was updated on page 100.
Land Use(Page 3 of Metropolitan Council Letter)
1. A Community Designation map was added on page 32.
2. A discussion of each future land use category and potential development was
added on page 76.
3. The land use table and associated text was updated on pages 75 and 76.
4. The Proposed Land Use Map on page 76 was updated.
5. The net developable acreage is found on the land use table on page 75.
6. The text was updated to include the expectations for Suburban density on page
74.
Housing(Pages 3,4 5 and 6 of Metropolitan Council Letter)
1. A table that includes the number of publicly subsidized units was added on page
73.
2. A table that indicates the number of housing cost burdened households was
added on page 70.
3. Text was added to address housing needs on pages 70 and 73.
4. The land use table and associated text was updated on pages 75 and 76.
5. The Implementation Plan section of Housing was updated to include a discussion
of housing programs on pages 157-159.
6. The housing value map was updated on page 71.
Wastewater Services(Pages 6 and 7 of Metropolitan Council Letter)
1. Lee Mann, the City Engineer is in the process of addressing the comments on
wastewater.
Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems(Page 7 of Metropolitan Council Letter)
1. Lee Mann, the City Engineer is in the process of addressing the comments on
subsurface sewage treatment systems.
Aggregate Resources(Page 7 of Metropolitan Council Letter)
1. A section on aggregate resources was added on page 27.
Transportation(Page 8 of Metropolitan Council Letter)
1. The numbers of lanes for principal and A-minor arterials was added on page 79.
2. The forecasted traffic volumes for 2040 have been requested from MnDOT.
Those volumes are expected next week, and the text/map will be updated.
3. The text was updated to discuss the transit market areas on page 90.
4. The text was updated to reflect that Highway 36 is an express bus corridor on
page 104.
5. The Regional Connections Map on page 152 was updated to reflect the
Regional Bicycle Transportation network.
6. The transportation maps were updated to include local streets in the map
legends.
7. The discussion of pedestrian and bicycle facilities was updated on page 104.
8. The text was updated to clarify that on-street trails are to be used by both
pedestrians and bicyclists.
9. The text was changed to reflect the phrase accessible for people with disabilities
2
Regional Parks and Trails (Page 9 of Metropolitan Council Letter)
1 . The Regional Connections Map on page 152 and the Proposed Parks and Trails
Map was updated to reflect the regional connections.
2. The plan's Introduction was updated to reflect that this plan updates the Park and
Trail System plan.
Solar
1. A table of the City's gross solar and rooftop potential was added on page 60.
2. Solar implementation strategies were added in the Implementation section on
page 161.
Implementation (Page 9 and 10 of Metropolitan Council Letter)
1 . The text was updated to indicate that the City will review and update its official
controls within nine months of adopting the 2040 plan on page 164.
2. The text related to plan review and financial planning was updated on page 155.
3. The text related to mid and high-density projects was updated on pages 156 and
157.
TIMELINE FOR FINAL REVIEW AND APPROVAL
The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing at their December 12, 2018
meeting for the final draft of the plan. The Planning Commission can decide whether to
forward a recommendation to the City Council or continue the discussion to their
January 10, 2019 meeting. The City Council will then review and authorize Staff to
forward the plan to the Metropolitan Council at their second meeting in January.
ATTACHMENTS
1 . Letter from Metropolitan Council — November 13, 2018
2. Community Designations Map — Page 32
3. Existing Land Use Map — Page 33
4. Housing Values Map — Page 71
5. Proposed Land Use Map — Page 76
6. Functional Classification Map — Page 82
7. Transportation Plan Map — Page 96
8. Regional Connections Map — Page 152
9. Proposed Parks and Trails Map — Page 154
10.Land Use, Transportation and Implementation Sections
Pc: Julie Hultman
3
• rE
November 13, 2018
Scott Richards, Consulting Planner
Cityof Oak Park Heights
{
3601 Thurston Avenue North
Anoka, MN 55303
RE: Preliminary Review of the City of Oak Park Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan
Metropolitan Council District 1
Metropolitan Council Review File No. 22079-0
Dear Mr. Richards:
Metropolitan Council (Council) staff have reviewed the preliminary draft of the City of Oak Park Heights
2040 Comprehensive Plan (Plan), received on September 12, 2018 and additional forecast information
provided October 9, 2018. In the preliminary review, staff focused on whether the draft Plan appeared
to be complete and contained any major system issues or policy conflicts. Time did not permit as
thorough of a review as will occur when the Plan is officially submitted for Council review. A more
detailed review may reveal other important matters that were not identified during this preliminary
review.
When addressing the matters in this letter, City staff are advised to refer to the City's Checklist of
Minimum Requirements and the City's System Statement, which are available on the Oak Park Heights'
Community Page of the online Local Planning Handbook:
City of Oak Park Heights Community Page:
https://Iphonline.mets.state.mn.us/CommPage?ctu=2395285&applicant=Oak%20Park%20Heiq
hts
City of Oak Park Heights Checklist of Minimum Requirements:
https://metrocouncil.org/Handbook/Files/Checklist/02395285 OakParkHeights Checklist.aspx
City of Oak Park Heights System Statement:
https://metrocouncil,org/Communities/Planninq/Local-Planning-Assistance/System-
Statements/System-Statements/02395285 OakParkHeights 2015SS.aspx
Complete for Review
The preliminary review found the following sections complete for review and did not identify any major
system issues or policy conflicts: Surface Water Management and Water Supply. We offer the below
advisory comments for your consideration.
Surface Water Management (Jim Larsen, 651-602-1151)
The City lies within the oversight boundaries of the Middle Saint Croix Watershed Management
Organization, and the Valley Branch and Browns Creek Watershed Districts. The City submitted
a draft Local Water Management Plan (LWMP) update in September 2018. Council staff
reviewed and commented on the draft LWMP to the City and Watersheds in a letter dated
September 12, 2018.
390 Robert Street North I Saint Paul, MN 55101-1805 METROPOLITANP. 651.602.1000 I TrY. 651.291.0904 I metrocouncil.org COUNCI
An Equal Opportunity Employer
Scott Richards, Consulting Planner
November 13, 2018
Page 2 of 10
Advisory Comments
If available at the time the City submits its formal Plan, the City should provide the complete
final LWMP in an Appendix in the Plan and a Water Resources summary in the bodyof p he Plan
(as was done with the draft LWMP in this preliminary review submission), incorporating any
recommended revisions from the Council and Watershed reviews of the draft LWMP. If
available at the time the formal Plan is submitted, we also request that the City provide to the
Council the dates the three Watersheds approved the LWMP and the date the City ado ted the
final LWMP. p
Incomplete for Review
The following sections of the draft Plan are considered incomplete.
Forecasts (Todd Graham, 651-602-1322)
The Plan is incomplete for the City forecasts and land supply for future growth.
The Plan includes the forecasts for the City (p. 57). There is an apparent error in the table
provided: the 2040 households number should be 2,600 (not 6,800).
The Plan states (p, 57): "These forecasts are accepted by the City as the basis for growth, with
the exception of the employment numbers, which the City projects will be less than what is
provided by the Metropolitan Council." Council staff and the City's planner have discussed
substitute employment numbers. In supplemental information received October 9, 2018, Council
and City staff agree to the following revised employment forecast (shown underlined):
Census Estimates System Statement Revised Forecasts
2010 2017 2020 2030 2040 2020 2030 2040
Population 4445 4742 4880 5300 5700 4880 5300 5700
Households 1911 2257 2200 2420 2600 2200 2420 2600
Employment 4358 4494 5900 6800 7500 4600 5100 5500
This revised forecast should appear in the formal submittal of the Plan where employment
forecasts are discussed.
The Plan does not sufficiently describe how land supply for future development (or
redevelopment) accommodates the community's growth forecast. An inventory of potential
development and redevelopment sites is not provided. The planned land use table describes
only minimal additions of new land supply: 7 acres of low-density, 5 acres of medium-density
and 5 acres of high-density land. This falls short of the expectation of guiding enough land to
accommodate the growth forecast: 343 additional households during 2017-2040.
Advisory Comments
• The TAZ forecast table on p. 99 should reflect the revised employment forecast, as
discussed above.
• The employment figures in the Comprehensive Sewer Plan should reflect the revised
employment forecast, as discussed above.
Scott Richards,Consulting Planner
November 13,2018
Page 3 of 10
Land Use(Freya Thamman,651-602-1750)
The Plan is incomplete for land use.Additional information is also needed to ensure
consistency with Council policy of planning for forecasted residential growth at a density of at
least 5 units/acre for Suburban communities.To be complete for review,the Plan needs to
address the following issues
Community Designation
• The Plan needs to include a map acknowledging the City's Community's designation.If the
City wishes,it can use the individualized Community designation map linked below:
haps://metrocouncil.oro/Handbook/Files/Community-Designation-
Map/JPG/02395285 OakParkHeights CommunitvDesionation.aspx.
Future Land Use
• The future land use section needs to include discussion of each future land use category,
• allowed uses for each category(i.e.for residential uses,allowed housing types such as
single-family,duplexes,townhomes,etc.),and the minimum and maximum densities for all
categories that allow residential uses.
• It appears that some categories may allow a mix of uses(i.e.Business/Residential
Transition).For each"mixed use"category,the Plan needs to define an expected share of
individual land uses and identify the permitted density range,if there are residential uses.
• The future land use categories shown in the text,as well as associated table(p.37),and
figure(p.80)need to be consistent throughout the Plan. For example,the future land use
figure has Business/Residential Transition,but the table does not include this category.
Density
• To be consistent with Council policy,the City's Plan needs to support forecasted growth and
at a density of at least 5 units/acre.To do so,the land use,plan needs demonstrate that
residential development will occur at appropriate densities to accommodate the forecasted
growth and is consistent with the density policy of 5 units/acre for the Suburban planning
area designation.Currently there are 17 acres shown for new residential land(supeo
67-121 residential units at approximately 3.9 units/acre).
• The Plan needs to identify where forecasted residential growth will happen on your Future
Land Use Map,showing new development and re-development areas,associated
residential density range,and when residential development is anticipated to happen.
Examples of how this is shown is linked here(at 17;28 minutes)
httos://www.voutube.corn/watch?v=9urivCbuMww&feature=voutu.be
• The Plan needs to provide the net developable acreage for each residential land use.It is
OK to exclude wetlands and natural water bodies,public parks and open space,arterial
road local plans
steep slopes,wetland buffers,Iresource lans tree pre ervation)from arearotected calculations.
and ordinances(i.e.
cal ulat ons
Advisory Comments
• It is suggested that the Plan indicate that the density expectations for Suburban
communities are at least five units(https//metrocouncil org/Handbook/Files/Thrive-
Summaries/Policv-Sub urban.aspx).
Housing(Hilary Lovelace,651-602-1555)
The Plan is incomplete for Housing review.Incomplete,inconsistent items and advisory
comments are described below.
Scott Richards, Consulting Planner
November 13, 2018
Page 4 of 10
Incomplete items
Existing Housing Needs
• Number of publicly subsidized housing units are noted on p. 70, but are no
type. The stated number is also much lower than Council data suggests.
described c
be found on the community's Existing Housing Assessment. . These figures can
(https.//metrocouncil,orq/Handbook/Files/Existing-Nousinq-
Assessment/02395285 OakParkHeights ExistingHsq.aspx)
• The number of existing households experiencing housing cost burden should
be broken out
by AMI category. These figures can be found on the community's ExistingHo
Assessment. (https://metrocouncil.orq/Handbook/Files/Existing-Housin using
Assessment/02395285 OakParkHeights ExistincHsq.aspx) q
• The narrative analysis of existing housing needs is not sufficient. The Plan should clearly
indicate the housing needs of existing residents and at a minimum address
of the existing housing assessment, including households experiencinghousingcomponents
burden. cost
Projected Housing Need
• Land guided to address the City's allocation of affordable housingneed for 202 -
sufficiently described for review. The land use table on page 75 oes not show 2030 isied#
for development within periods of time that fit within the required decade of 202 land guided
• The Plan states that there are 56 acres of undeveloped land. The table on 2030
acres guided for high density residential. Guiding more land as High Density Re d shows 5
the 2021-2030 decade or some other land use category with ay Residential in
units/acre are needed to meet the City's allocation. g y density of at least 8
Implementation Plan
• Please list the specific public programs, fiscal devices, and other specific actions
Washington County CDA to meet the need of rehabilitating aging pro properly and that
housing needs identified. This may include Washington County CDA's GapFinancing other
Redevelopment and Rental Owner Occupied Housing (GROW). Include inwhatancing for
circumstances this would be used (specific property conditions, areas of the community,
serve households of a specific AMI, after a City resolution or policy is passed, etcTo lto
more about the powers of EDAs and HRAs, please see the City Development Powers} loam
Create Legal Entities in the Local Planning Handbook p to
(https.//metrocouncil.orq/Handbook/Files/Resources/Fact-Sheet/HQUSING/Cit -
Development-Powers-to-Create-Legal-Entities.aspx) y
• LCA programs are discussed in detail, however, there is very little detail on wha
projects, serving what % AMI and special populations, would be served with t types of
programs. Circumstances of when this funding will be applied for and how it wil se
best as the community knows now, is required. 1 be used, as
• Rental license and inspection programs as well as ground maintenance regulation
described on page 74 require more context about when they will be implemented s
already). (if not
Inconsistent Items
Projected Housing Needs
• Based on minimum units per acre, it appears that High Density Residential is the o
residential land use that is guiding minimum residential densities that can support the
p
total allocation of affordable housing need for 2021-2030. The table describes that it i City s
that 5 acres of land will develop as High Density. This would calculate to 40 units that
likely
hat could
Scott Richards,Consulting Planner
November 13,2018
Page 5 of 10
be priced low enough to be affordable to households making less than 80%AMI,which is
lower than the community's allocation of housing need.
•
• The development of senior affordable housing(page 73)is not sufficient to support the
City's share of the region's need for affordable housing between 2021 and 2030.City
support for both affordable senior housing and its share of future affordable housing needs
are both good policy goals but are not interchangeable.
Implementation Plan
Some widely used tools to address housing needs are not included in the Plan.To be
consistent,tools must be acknowledged,and the Plan should state if,and if so,when and why,
the City would consider using them to address housing needs:
• Housing Bond Issuance by municipalities
(https://metrocouncil.org/Handbook/Files/Resources/Fact-Sheet/HOUSING/Municipal-Bond-
Issuance.aspx)
• Tax Abatement(https://metrocouncil,org/HandbooWFiles/Resources/Fact-
Sheet HOUSING/Tax-Abatement.aspx)
• Tax Increment Financing(TIF)(https://metrocouncil.ora/HandbooWFiles/Resources/Fact-
Sh eet/HOUSI NG/Tax-I n crement-Fin ancing.aspx)
• City support or direct application to specific resources within the Consolidated RFP put out
by Minnesota Housing(https://metrocouncil.org/Handbook/Files/Resouroes/Fact-
Sheet/HOUSING/The-Consolidated-RFP.aspx)
• Use of CDBG or HOME funding through collaboration with Washington County
• Site assembly,which can be very helpful for gaining control of vacant or abandoned
property,including partnering with the Land Bank Twin Cities
(https://metrocouncil.org/Handbook/Files/Resources/Fact-Sheet/HOUSING/Site-
Assembly.aspx)
• Fair Housing Policy(see more detail in the advisory comments)
• Participation in housing-related organizations,partnerships,and initiatives
(https://metrocouncil.org/Handbook/Files/Resources/Fact-Sheet/HOUSING/Collaborating •
-
on-Housing-Strategies.aspx)
• Preservation of expiring low-income housing tax credit properties
• Examination of zoning and subdivision policies that may create barriers to the development
of more affordable housing or reuse/redevelopment of existing non-residential structures.
(https://metrocouncil.org/Handbook/Fil es/Resources/Fact-Sheet/HOUSI NG/Housing-
I mplementation-Zoning-and-Subdivision-Ord.aspx)
• First time homebuyer down payment assistance
(https://metrocouncil.org/Handbook/Files/Resources/Fact-
Sheet/HOUSI NG/Homeownership-Support-Programs.aspx)
• Specific tools that preserve naturally occurring affordable housing,including Housing
Improvement Areas,partnerships with sources of preservation financing(MN Housing,
Greater Minnesota Housing Fund's NOAH Impact Fund),and 4(d)tax incentives.
(https://metrocouncil.org/Handboo WFiles/Resources/Fact-SheebHOUSING/Housing-
Preservation.aspx)
• Advocating for a Community Land Trust model and/or cooperation/support for Two Rivers
Community Land Trust to create and preserve affordable homeownership opportunities
For more information on how to create a complete and consistent implementation plan,
including examples,please refer to the Linking Tools to Needs resource in the Local Planning
Handbook(https://metrocouncii.org/Handbook/Files/Resources/Fact-Sheet/HOUSING/Linking-
Tools-to-Needs.aspx)
Scott Richards,Consulting Planner
November 13,2018
Page 6 of 10
Advisory Comments:
• Council staff encourages the City to identify a timeline for researching and considering an
Accessory Dwelling Unit(ADU)policy or allow them as a permitted use.
• On Page 74,Council staff suggests clarifying what the"creation"of affordable housing lots
means.
• For the map of home values,consider changing the value for 80%AMI to$243,500,which
is the home value affordable to those earning 80%AMI in 2018.
(haps://metrocouncit.orq/Communities/Services/Livable-Communities-Grants/2017-
Ownership-and-Rent-Affordability-Umits.aspx)
• The number of housing units affordable to households by income are sourced to
Metropolitan Council but are far off the Metropolitan Council's Existing Housing Assessment
figures.The Existing Housing Assessment provides more up-to-date figures.
(https://metrocouncit.orq/Handbook/Files/Existinq-Housinq-
Assessrhent/02395285 OakParkHeights ExistinqHsq.aspx)
• With respect to a Fair Housing policy,local fair housing policies do not mean that cities
should or can manage or administer Fair Housing complaints.Rather,a local fair housing
policy ensures the City is aware of fair housing requirements with regard to housing
decisions and provides sufficient resources to educate and refer residents who feel their fair
housing rights have been violated(this can be as simple as having links to resources on the
City's website).The Metropolitan Council will require a local Fair Housing policy as a
requirement to draw upon Livable Communities Act(LCA)awards beginning in 2019.To
learn more,please review the following resources:
o Creating a Local Fair Housing Policy webinar:
https://www.voutube.com/watch?v=38JY4pNGnZ8&feature=voutu.be
o Best Practices:haps://metrocounciforq/Handbook/Planit/Files/Webinar-Fair-Housinq-
Handout2.aspx
o Policy Template:https://metrocouncit.orq/Handbook/Traininq/Webinars.aspx-click on
Handout 1 under the Implementing A Local Fair Housing Policy at the bottom of the
screen
Wastewater Services(Roger Janzig,651-602-1119)
The Plan is incomplete for Wastewater Services.To be complete for review,the Plan needs
include the following:
• A table that details adopted community sewered forecasts in 10-year increments to 2040 for
households and employment.This data needs to be broken down by areas served by the
Metropolitan Disposal System and subsurface sewage treatment systems(SSTS).
• An electronic map or maps(GIS shape files or equivalent)showing the following information
regarding the existing sanitary sewer system.
o Lift stations.
o Existing connections points to the metropolitan disposal system.
o Future connection points for new growth if needed.
o Local sewer service districts by connection point.
o Intercommunity connections.
• Copy of intercommunity service agreements entered into with an adjoining community,
including a map of areas covered by the agreement.
• Table or tables that assigns 2040 growth forecasts by Metropolitan interceptor facility.
• Describe the requirements and standards in your community for minimizing inflow and
infiltration(Ill):
Scott Richards, Consulting Planner
November 13, 2018
Page 7 of 10
o Include a copy of the local ordinance or resolution that prohibits discharge from sump
pumps, foundation drains, and/or rain leaders to the sanitary sewer system.'
o Include a copy of the local ordinance or resolution requiring the disconnection of existing
foundation drains, sump pumps, and roof leaders from the sanitary sewer system.
• Describe the sources, extent, and significance of existing inflow and infiltration in both the
municipal and private sewer systems:
o Include a breakdown of residential housing stock age within the community into pre- and
post- 1970 era, and what percentage of pre-1970 era private services have been
evaluated for I/1 susceptibility and repair.
o Include the measured or estimated amount of clearwater flow generated from the public
municipal and private sewer systems.
o Include a cost summary for remediating the I/1 sources identified in the community. If
previous I/I mitigation work has occurred in the community, include a summary of flow
reductions and investments completed. if costs for mitigating I/1 have not been analyzed,
include the anticipated wastewater service rates or other costs attributed to inflow and
infiltration.
• Describe the implementation plan for preventing and eliminating excessive inflow and
infiltration from entering both the municipal and private sewer systems.
o Include a list of priorities for 1/I mitigation projects based on flow reduction, budget,
schedule, or other criteria.
o Include a schedule and the related financial mechanisms planned or needed to
implement the i/1 mitigation strategy.
• For new trunk sewer systems that require connection to the Metropolitan Disposal System:
o A table that details the proposed time schedule for the construction of the new trunk
sewer system.
o Type capacity and ca acit of the treatment facilities, whether municipally or privately owned.
o Copies of the associated National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) or
State Disposal System (SDS) permits.
• Map or maps (GIS shape files or equivalent) showing the following information: (6 SSTS)
o Location of sub-surface sewage treatment systems.
o Location of nonconforming systems or systems with problems
Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems (SSTS) (Jim Larsen, 651-602-1151)
The Plan is incomplete for SSTS review. The Plan will need to include a map depicting the
location of the six remaining individual SSTS in the City. Council staff suggests adding their
locations to the Comprehensive Sewer Plan Appendix G Sanitary Sewer System Map.
Aggregate Resources (Jim Larsen,651-602-1151) aggregate resources inventory
The Plan is incomplete for aggregate resources. The Council's gg
information contained in Minnesota Geological Survey Information Circular 46 indicates that
there are several small isolated sand and gravel deposits in the City, but no aggregate resource
deposits that are likely to be of sufficient size to be economically viable for mining in the nearly
fully urbanized community.
The formal Plan needs to indicate that there are no aggregate resources available for mining in
the City or provide a summary of any known, potentially available resources or active mining
operations within the City.
Scott Richards,Consulting Planner
November 13,2018
Page 8 of 10
Transportation (Heidi Schallberg, 651-602-1721)
The Plan is incomplete for Transportation. To be complete for review, the Plan needs to
address the following:
• Identify the existing and future number of lanes for principal and A-minor arterials. The
existing number of lanes was only identified for Highway 36 as a principal arterial. If no
changes to the number of lanes are planned, this should be specified in the Plan.
• Forecasted traffic volumes must be for 2040. The draft Plan includes forecasted numbers for
2030.
• For transit, the Plan must describe the community in relationship to the transit market areas
(III and V for Oak Park Heights) and describe the appropriate level of service for these
market areas.
• For transit, the Plan needs to include that Highway 36 is an express bus corridor in the TPP.
• For bicycling, the Plan needs to map and describe the Tier 2 Regional Bicycle
Transportation Network (RBTN) alignments in the City. The map should also show the
relationship of the RBTN to the local bicycle network, including all existing and planned
connections and local activity centers.
Advisory Comments
Roadways
• If heavy commercial average annual daily traffic(HCAADT) is available for the principal and
A-minor arterials in the City, the data should be included on the map of current traffic
volumes.
• On the functional classification map, Council staff suggest Including local streets in the map
legend.
Transit
• Because the City is within two transit market areas, Council staff suggest including a map of
those transit market areas in relationship to the City.
Bicycling and Walking.
• The transportation chapter refers to the parks chapter for discussion of bicycling and
walking. Biking and walking are transportation modes, not just recreation. Including more
discussion of these modes in transportation would help integrate planning for these modes
as part of transportation to help the community reach its stated goals of making connections
to pedestrian destinations, schools, etc. It would be useful to map pedestrian facilities in
relation to these types of destinations, not just parks.
• Clarify if on-street trails as described on page 130 are intended and marked for use by both
pedestrians and bicyclists.
• It is generally preferred to use people-first language in relation to people with disabilities. On
pages 130 and 133, the phrase "disability accessible" is used in relation to trails. Suggest
changing this to "accessible for people with disabilities."
Scott Richards,Consulting Planner
November 13,2018
Page 9 of 10
Regional Parks and Trails (Freya Thamman, 651-602-1750)
The Plan is incomplete for Regional Parks and Trails. To be complete for review, the Plan
needs to map and identify the Middle St. Croix Valley Regional Trail Search Corridor. The
regional trail search corridor travels through Stillwater, Oak Park Heights, Bayport, Baytown
Township, West Lakeland Township, and Lakeland as it connects to the Browns Creek State
Trail. Linked here is a .jpg with the search corridor, which can be included in the City's Plan:
https://metrocouncil.orq/Handbook/Files/Recional-Parks-
System/JPG/02395285 OakParkHeights Parks.aspx.
Advisory Comments
The City may want to consider updating Plan's Introduction, which states that the City will be
updating its Comprehensive Park and Trail System Plan.
Solar (Camerae Bailey, 651-602-1212)
The Plan is incomplete and inconsistent with statutory requirements (Minn. Stat. 473.859.
Subd. 2; Section 103B.235) and Council policy regarding planning for the protection and
development of access to direct sunlight for solar energy systems as required by the
Metropolitan Land Planning Act (MLPA).
The Plan needs to include the solar resource map's corresponding calculations of the
community's gross solar and rooftop solar resource. These calculations can be found on the
community's Community Page on the Local Planning Handbook.
Advisory Comments
There are very good solar policies and goals in the Plan. Council staff recommend enrolling in
the following cost-free programs, which are designed to provide planning, technical, and policy
assistance to local Minnesota governments, as additional "solar implementation strategies" in
your Plan:
• U.S. Dept. of Energy's SolSmart Program -Solar Permitting, Zoning, and Development
• MN GreenStep Cities Program — Sustainability Best Practices
• Xcel Energy's Partners in Energy Program— Energy Action Plan Development
Implementation (Freya Thamman, 651-602-1750)
The Plan is incomplete for implementation. Additional implementation information,'as
discussed above in the Housing and Wastewater sections, is required. The implementation
chapter lists possible improvement projects and indicates that the chapter should be reviewed
and updated each year at the beginning of annual financial planning. Additional detail is
suggested schedule for the preparation, adoption, and administration of needed changes to
official controls.
Advisory Comments
• The City may want to consider indicating in the Plan that it will review and update official
controls within 9 months of adopting the 2040 Plan.
• The Plan indicates that the Implementation chapter should be reviewed and updated each
year at the beginning of its financial planning. For clarity, Council staff suggest that the
above sentence indicate that the Plan will be reviewed and updated each year.
• The Implementation section indicates that there are no current or projected mid and high
density residential projects planned in the City; however, the land use table in five-year
stages indicates anticipated medium and high-density development 2020-2025.
Scott Richards, Consulting Planner
November 13,2018
Page 10 of 10
As a reminder, when the City's 2040 Plan is submitted for formal review, to be complete for review, the
submittal materials need to include the list of all the affected jurisdictions that were sent a copy of the
City's 2040 Plan for review, the date the City's 2040 Plan was provided for review, and the comments
received by jurisdictions. Your subsequent response to review comments from adjacent jurisdictions
must also be included with the submittal materials. If no comments were provided within the six-month
review period, please note this as well. The resolution authorizing the Plan to be submitted to the
Metropolitan Council for review also needs to be included with the official submittal.
In summary, the submitted draft Plan is missing a number of items and may require revision. If you
have any questions or need further information regarding the comments in this letter, please contact
Freya Thamman, Principal Reviewer, at 651-602-1750 or your Sector Representative, Corrin Wendell,
at 651-602-1832.
Sincerely,
•
LisaBe Barajas, Director 6
Community Development
CC: Harry Melander,•Metropolitan Council District 12
Corrin Wendell, Sector Representative
Freya Thamman, Principal Reviewer
Raya Esmaeili, Reviews Coordinator
N:ICommDevlLPAlCommunitieslOak Park HeightslLetterslOak Park Heights 2018 CPU Prelim 22079-0.docx
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LAND USE - INTRODUCTION
The basic intent of the comprehensive planning process is to provide a well-founded and
coordinated decision-making framework to guide both public and private development
and community improvements. In this regard, this represents the development framework
to guide land use decisions for the City of Oak Park Heights. The Land Use section is
based upon the physical profile information, as well as the community issues which have
been identified in determining community goals and policies.
The Land Use section assists policy makers in daily decision-making. Since the maps
and plans in the Comprehensive Plan may be quickly outdated, reliance on a land use
map for guidance on a specific issue may be difficult for decision-makers. However, the
relative consistency of community goals and policies ties the land use activities together
over the long term.
The Land Use Plan is the basic plan for growth and development in the community. It
establishes the general parameters, issues, and goals which are to be achieved. It further
defines and establishes direction for the basic elements of the development regulations
that will be updated after the planning process is completed.
The arrangement of this section includes the Physical Profile of the City to include the
Existing Land Use Map, Goals and Policies related to land use, and finally, the Land Use
Plan. In sum, the Land Use Plan provides the foundation for guiding and managing land
use expansion and redevelopment within Oak Park Heights. It determines directives and
means for specific assignments and accomplishments. Additionally, it establishes the
ground work and parameters for facilities planning.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights
Page 25
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT FEATURES
Topography
The terrain in Oak Park Heights can be characterized as gently rolling in the west and
increasing in slopes until a ridge of severe slope at the edge of the St.Croix River Valley.
The least significant topographic changes occur in the western portions of the City. The
most severe topography changes extend from the eastern portion of the State of
Minnesota Correctional Facility grounds north to the Highway 36. This topography
change is best described as a ridge separating the City's higher elevations from the lower
elevations of the river valley.
Soils
The soils found in an area often determine the type and extent of urban development that
can occur in the area. Factors such as soil strength,drainage and frost characteristics
may serve to limit the amount and type of urban development that can be accommodated
on the land.
The United States Department of Agriculture completed a detailed survey of soils within
Washington County,including the area of Oak Park Heights,in 1977. While it should be
recognized that any large-scale mapping of soils results in an extremely generalized
graphic statement,the information does serve to illustrate the relationship between soils
and the areas available for development.
Generally, the soils within Oak Park Heights belong to one of three soil associations.
These categories are as follows:
Santiago-Kingsley. This soil association is characterized by undulating to steep slopes,
are well drained with a moderately coarse texture. Soils within this association are
characterized as being good to fair for supporting urban development.
Antigo-Chetek-Mahtomedi. Soils in this association are generally formed in outward
areas with slopes ranging from nearly level to steep. These soils are typically well to
excessively drained with a medium to coarse texture. These soils are generally well
suited for supporting urban development.
Antigo-Comstock. These soils are generally level to moderately sloping and are formed
predominantly in underlying sandy outwash plains and glacial lake plains. The main
limitation of this series for urban development is susceptibility to frost heaving and a high-
water table in low lying areas.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
*:41 ' City of Oak Park Heights Page 26
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
A more detailed description of the soils found within Oak Park Heights, in terms of
suitability for urban development, is provided on maps available at City Hall. Generally,
the soils along the river bluffs and on the State of Minnesota Correctional Facility grounds
on the southern area of the City are poor for urban development purposes. Of greater
importance, the Department of Agriculture has classified most of the soils in the western
portion of the City as moderate for urban development purposes. The limitations of these
soils are related mostly to the slopes of the soil types found in this area.
Aggregate Resources
The Minnesota Geological Survey Information Circular 46 indicates that there are several
small isolated sand and gravel deposits in Oak Park Heights, but no aggregate resource
deposits are if a size that can be economically mined in this City which is nearly
completely developed. The Land Use Plan is not impacted by these aggregate resource
deposits.
WETLANDS
The City of Oak Park Heights contains wetlands which are generally widespread
throughout the community as shown on the following Natural Environmental Features
Map. Many of these wetlands are large and represent potential physical barriers to
development and street connections. Most of these wetlands are in the western areas of
the City. The largest of the wetlands in Oak Park Heights, Perro Pond, is in the
southeastern portion of the City. This wetland is located almost entirely within the
boundaries of the State of Minnesota Correctional Facility and Valley View Park.
These wetlands serve an important function as ponding areas for excess storm water
runoff. In addition, these areas are also valuable for flood water retention, ground water
recharge, nutrient assimilation, wildlife habitat and aesthetics. In 1991, the Wetlands
Conservation Act was passed requiring the preservation of all wetland areas unless
federal and state approvals are granted. The filling of designated wetlands requires that
the wetland be mitigated at a 2:1 ratio, that is, for every acre of wetland removed, two
acres would need to be replaced.
VEGETATION
Existing natural vegetation masses are found throughout Oak Park Heights. The largest
areas of vegetative cover are in the western areas of the City and around the large
wetland area which extends from the State of Minnesota Correctional Facility grounds
through Valley View Park.
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Comprehensive Plan 2018
l
City of Oak Park Heights Page 27
fir,;n'
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
FLOODPLAIN
A small area on the extreme eastern portion of the City adjacent to the St. Croix River
Valley has been designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency as being
within the 100-year floodway. Due to the bluffs leading up from the St. Croix River Valley,
the remainder of the City is not affected by flooding during high water periods of the St.
Croix River. Those areas within the 100-year floodway are identified on the Natural
Environment Features Map.
POLLUTION
Pollution has generally not been an issue in Oak Park Heights. The Minnesota Pollution
Control Agency provides information on past pollution problems which have been
reported. In addition to minor chemical leaks or spills, typically gasoline or oil associated
with businesses, one significant site was identified. The Xcel Energy fly ash disposal
site, which is south of Highway 36 and east of Osgood Avenue, was used to dispense of
an ash by-product created at the Allen S. King power generating facility located adjacent
to the St. Croix River. The site has been capped and is now Oak Park Crossing Park.
The fly ash monitoring will continue under the management of Xcel Energy, but the park
is under the management of the City.
Another potential pollution issue is the Baytown Township groundwater contamination
site which is the result of the disposal or spillage of trichloroethylene (TCE) in the area
south of Highway 15 and west of Manning Avenue, and the use or spillage of carbon
tetrachloride at a nearby grain storage facility. The site consists of an area of groundwater
contamination that is more than six square miles and affects four major groundwater
aquifers. Although there has been no issue for the City of Oak Park Heights' municipal
water system, the City continues to monitor the spread of the contamination and will
consider the pollution impact with any new well or well reconditioning. The area west of
Osgood Avenue in the City is included in a Drinking Water Supply Management area as
identified by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
z'' City of Oak Park Heights Page 28
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
INSERT NATURAL ENVIRONMENTAL FEATURES MAP
•
` Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 29
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
'�- Comprehensive Plan 2018
Y-. , City of Oak Park Heights Page 30
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
DEVELOPMENT PATTERNS
The development patterns of land use in the City of Oak Park Heights are clearly
established by the influence of both man-made and natural environmental features. The
most significant influences have been Highway 36 and the power line easement/lines
from the Allen S. King power generating facility. Development patterns in Oak Park
Heights and other jurisdictions have also influenced the east-west orientation of the
community along Highway 36. The highways, in particular Highways 36, 15, and 95
function as physical barriers, but also the primary connections for Oak Park Heights to
the region. The highways have also significantly influenced the location of commercial
development in the community.
The easterly portion of the community is almost completely developed. In coming years,
there will not be significant changes other than specific redevelopment in the commercial
areas. To the west of Oakgreen Avenue,there are undeveloped commercial areas both
for retail/office and business/warehouse uses. It is expected that these areas will be
completely developed in the next five to ten years. Other than what is currently in
development,there are no significant parcels of residential land available for development
in the City. There is one potential area for limited annexation, south of Highway 36 to
Manning Avenue. The City will not actively pursue annexation, but work with property
owners and adjoining jurisdictions when an owner requests annexation to City services.
The City of Oak Park Heights is designated as a "Suburban" in the Thrive MSP 2040
regional planning document adopted by the Metropolitan Council in 2014. Under that
classification,the overall density expectation is five units per acre. Previously,the City
had been designated as a"Developing Community"as part of the 2008 Comprehensive
Plan Update.The ThriveMSP 2040 Community Designations map which shows Oak Park
Heights as Suburban is found on the following page.
The Existing Land Use Map, as found on a following page, graphically illustrates the
distribution and variety of land use types in Oak Park Heights. The map was developed
in July 2017. An analysis of the breakdown by acreage of land use types follows the
Existing Land Use Map.
gin. =ti
Comprehensive Plan 2018
�,,�
"• City of Oak Park Heights Page 31
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
INSERT EXISTING LAND USE MAP
Comprehensive Plan 2018Page 32
YA ' City of Oak Park Heights
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 33
6'y.
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
EXISTING LAND USE ANALYSIS
The City of Oak Park Heights is 2,152 acres in size. The predominant land uses in the
City include low density residential (12 percent), commercial (10 percent), and
government(9 percent). The next largest land use category is industrial at 8 percent. A
relatively small percentage (3 percent) is vacant property, only some of which is
developable land. A detailed explanation of each land use category follows the existing
land use table.
2017 OAK PARK HEIGHTS EXISTING LAND USE
Category Acres Percent Percent by
of Total Category
Residential Land Uses
Low Density 265 12%
Medium Density 62 3% 19%
High Density 80 4%
Commercial and Industrial
Commercial 210 10%
Highway Business/Warehouse 74 3% 21%
Industrial 170 8%
Other Land Uses
School Facilities 128 6% 6%
Quasi-Public/Utility 11 0%
Government 192 9% 9%
Park Facilities/Open Space 142 7% 7%
Water 390 18% 18%
Vacant 56 3% 3%
Right-of-Way 372 17% 17%
TOTAL 2,152 100% 100%
Source:City of Oak Park Heights,Stantec
RESIDENTIAL
As shown in the previous table,residential land use occupies 19 percent of the total land
area in the City. Low density family dwellings are scattered throughout the City. The
City's original single-family homes are in the eastern portion of the City. More recent low-
density development, however, has occurred in the western and central portions of the
City.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 34
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
Medium density residential development is located primarily in four locations. First, the
development east of Osgood Avenue on Upper 56th 57th and 58th Streets; second, on
Oxboro Avenue; third, south of Highway 36, west of Oakgreen Avenue; and within the
Boutwells Landing development.
High density residential development is primarily located in six locations. First, in the
northeast corner of the City on the St. Croix River, there is a large area of high density
residential apartments. Second, there are two high density developments south of
Highway 36 and east of Osgood Avenue, and finally, there are two locations north of
Highway 36 on both sides of Osgood Avenue and east of Osgood Avenue on Paris Street
North. Lastly, the Boutwells Landing development and the Oak Park Senior Living
development contain high density buildings.
COMMERCIAL
Existing commercial development presently accounts for 10 percent of the City's total
land use. Virtually all of the existing retail and service facilities are clustered along
Highway 36. While there is a small scattering of vacant commercial property, the majority
of available land for commercial development is located just south of Highway 36 and
Krueger Lane.
INDUSTRIAL/BUSINESS WAREHOUSE
Industrial/business warehouse land uses in Oak Park Heights total 244 acres or 11
percent of the total land area in the City. Virtually all of this acreage is attributed to the
Xcel Power Plant located on the St. Croix River. Two smaller industrial areas or business
warehousing/highway business areas are located on County Road 21 near the southern
border of the City, and the Kern Center west of County Highway 15. There are no parcels
available for future industrial development. The only area available for additional
business warehouse development is in the Kern Center at 58th Street and County
Highway 15.
GOVERNMENTAL FACILITIES
A significant amount of land within Oak Park Heights is devoted to governmental facilities
which encompass 192 acres or 9 percent of the City's total land area. Governmental
facilities include the St. Croix Valley Sewage Treatment Plant, the State of Minnesota
Correctional Facility, City Hall, and the water tower site at Norell Avenue and 58th Street
North.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 35
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
SCHOOL FACILITIES
Oak Park Heights is the home to the Stillwater Area High School. The campus is 128
acres or 7 percent of the total land area.
PARKS/OPEN SPACE
The City parks are separately classified in the Land Use Table. These areas encompass
142 acres or 7 percent of the City's total land area.
VACANT/UNDEVELOPED
The vacant/undeveloped land identified on the Existing Land Use Map and the Land Use
Table includes that which has not been developed, permanent open space, or that which
has been subdivided for development, but remains vacant. It totals 56 acres or 3 percent
of the total land area in Oak Park Heights. The immediacy of the prospects for
development on these parcels varies considerably and are closely tied to the current
climate in the housing market, commercial development interest, and other variables.
PHYSICAL BARRIERS
Natural features such as lakes, streams, and wetlands, as well as constructed features
such as highways, utility lines, or existing development, often act to contain land use and
restrict access. From another perspective, many of the natural features such as lakes,
wetlands, trees, or topography can be used to positively enhance a community and its
housing and business areas. Physical barriers within Oak Park Heights include the river,
wetland areas, Highways 36 and 95, County Highway 15, and the utility line connections.
The impact of physical barriers may be seen as having both positive and negative
aspects. On the positive side, barriers serve to define cohesive areas and to lend
structure to the arrangement of land uses, often separating uses which would otherwise
generate conflict. On the negative side, barriers may artificially constrain development,
and in separating developed areas, produce problems of access and circulation between
related land uses. The physical barriers within Oak Park Heights are seen primarily as
restricting access from north to south or east to west within the City. These physical
barriers can be overcome with improvements to the transportation system, both by car,
pedestrian and bicycle.
4s y. .•
Comprehensive Plan 2018
r �`;` City of Oak Park Heights Page 36
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
LAND USE CONTROLS
Land uses within Oak Park Heights are presently governed by the City Zoning and
Subdivision Ordinances. Applications for development and associated plans are
reviewed by City staff and submitted to the Planning Commission and City Council for
review and approval.
The table below indicates the breakdown of existing zoning districts and the acreages
currently devoted to each within the City. Acreages for water and right-of-way have not
been included. On a following page,the Zoning Map illustrates the arrangement of each
zoning district in Oak Park Heights,showing only those districts currently within the City.
2017 OAK PARK HEIGHTS TOTAL ZONING BREAKDOWN
Category Acres Percent Percent by
of Total Category
R-1,Single Family Residential 238 16%
R-1A,Single Family Residential 0 0%
R-1B,Single Family Residential 0 0%
R-1C,Single Family Residential 0 0% 25%
R-2,Low and Medium Density Residential 71 5%
R-3,Multiple Family Residential 50 3%
R-B,Residential Business Transitional 29 2%
B-1,Neighborhood Business 0 0%
B-2,General Business 161 10%
B-3,Highway Business and Warehouse 88 6% 22%
B-4,Limited Business 71 5%
B-W,Business/Warehousing 4 0%
I-1,Industrial 250 16% 16%
0,Open Space Conservation 392 26% 26%
P-I,Public/Institutional 0 0% 0%
PUD—Commercial 23 1%
PUD-Residential 45 3% 4%
Parks 104 7% 7%
TOTAL 1,525 100% 100%
Source:City of Oak Park Heights,Stantec
4t ,yt: Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 37
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
The following paragraphs summarize the districts of the Zoning Ordinance and how they
are applied in the City. The Zoning Map is found following these descriptions.
0, Open Space Conservation District
The 0, Open Space Conservation District is intended to provide a district which will allow
suitable areas of the City to be retained and utilized for open space, agricultural uses and
provide a "holding" zone for newly annexed lands to ensure that development will be
staged to maintain reasonable economy in public expenditures for public utilities and
service. The district allows farming, nurseries, tree farms, green houses, and very low
density single family dwellings as a permitted use.
R-1 , Single Family Residential District
The purpose of the R-1 , Single Family District is to provide for low density single family
detached residential dwelling units and directly related, complementary uses. The district
is the primary single-family district in the community. The district allows single family
residential uses and recreational uses as permitted and schools, places of worship, and
bed and breakfast facilities as conditional.
R-1 A, R-1 B, R-1 C, Single Family Residential District
These districts allow for the same permitted and conditional uses as the R-1 District, but
at different densities. There are no areas in the community currently zoned R-1A, R-1B,
or R-1C.
R-2, Low and Medium Density Residential District
The purpose of the R-2, Low and Medium Density Residential District is to provide for low
to moderate density residential dwellings and directly related, complementary uses.
Single and two-family units are allowed as permitted uses, townhomes, condominiums,
and multiple family dwelling structures with not more than four units are allowed as
conditional.
R-3, Multiple Family Residential District
The purpose of the R-3, Multiple Family Residential District is to provide for medium to
high density housing in multiple family structures and directly related, complementary
uses. Multiple family structures are a permitted use and private marina and boat storage
facilities, as well as other uses specified in previous districts, are conditional.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
4 3t City of Oak Park Heights Page 38
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
R-B,Residential Business Transitional District
The purpose of the R-B, Residential Business Transitional District is to provide for high
density residential use and for the transition in land use from residential to low intensity
business allowing for the intermixing of such uses. In the R-B District, multiple family
dwellings are listed as permitted uses and limited office use, nursing homes,elderly and
group housing,limited retail uses,and limited warehousing activities are conditional.
B-1,Neighborhood Business District
The purpose of the B-1, Neighborhood Business District is to provide for the
establishment of local centers for convenient,limited office,retail or service outlets which
deal directly with the customer for whom the goods or services are furnished. These
centers are to provide services and goods only for the surrounding neighborhoods and
are not intended to draw customers from the entire community. Barber shops, beauty
parlors, convenience grocery stores, and laundromats are limited permitted uses.
Conditional uses include governmental and public utility buildings,as well as professional
and commercial offices.
B-2,General Business District
The purpose of the B-2,General Business District is to provide for high intensity,retail or
service outlets which deal directly with the customer for whom the goods or services are
furnished. The uses allowed in this district are to provide goods and services on a
community market scale and located in areas which are well served by collector or arterial
street facilities. A significant portion of the commercial uses in Oak Park Heights are
zoned B-2 District. The district allows a full range of retail and commercial services as
permitted. Open and outdoor sales and service,drive throughs,automotive related uses
such as car washes,motor fuel stations and auto repair as listed conditional uses.
B-3,Highway Business and Warehousing District
The purpose of the B-3, Highway Business and Warehousing District is to provide for the
establishment of retail and wholesale sales, storage, warehousing and limited
manufacturing and production. The overall character of the B-3 District is intended to be
transitional in nature,thus uses allowed within this district shall be limited to those which
can compatibly exist adjacent to commercial and lower intensity activities. The B-3
District allows a wide variety of commercial uses. Restaurants, auto service centers,
vehicle dealerships,mini storage,animal clinics,landscape sales and certain educational
facilities are allowed as conditional.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 39
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
B-4, Limited Business District
The purpose of the B-4, Limited Business District is to provide a district accommodating
retail sales, service and office functions in a highly planned and coordinated area. The
uses allowed in this district are similar to but not as extensive, especially as it relates to
automotive vehicle sales and service, as the B-2, General Business District. Retail and
commercial uses are permitted while drive-in restaurants, minor auto repair, open and
outdoor storage, sales and service, and two family, townhomes and multiple family
dwellings are conditional.
B-W, Business/Warehousing District
The purpose of the B-W, Business/Warehousing District is to provide for the
establishment of wholesale and retail trade of large volume or bulk commercial items,
storage and warehousing. The overall character of the B-4 District is intended to be
transitional in nature, thus industrial uses allowed within this district shall be limited to
those which can compatibly exist adjacent to commercial and lower intensity activities.
Commercial and professional offices, printing establishments, conference centers, indoor
commercial recreation and wholesale showrooms are permitted, while open and outdoor
storage, services, sales and rental, and manufacturing are listed conditional uses.
I, Industrial District
The purpose of the I, Industrial District is to provide for the establishment of warehousing
and industrial development. General industrial uses such as storage and warehousing,
manufacturing power generation plants, and wholesale business and office
establishments are listed permitted uses. Conditional uses include open and outdoor
storage as an accessory use.
P-I, Public-Institutional District
The P-I District is intended to provide a specific zoning district for facilities directed to
serving the public and specialized government and semi-public uses. It is unique in that
the primary objective of uses within this district is the provision of services, frequently on
a non-profit basis, rather than the sale of goods or services. It is intended that uses within
such a district will be compatible with adjoining development and they will be located on
or in proximity to a collector street or arterial street. The district permitted uses include
government buildings, parks and recreational facilities while schools, places of worship,
hospitals, correctional facilities, nursing homes, cemeteries, and limited retail are
conditional. The City has established the P-I District in the Zoning Ordinance but has not
zoned property to this district.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
Page 0
K City of Oak Park Heights
f k "�
- 5 '
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
PUD, Planned Unit Development District
The purpose of the PUD, Planned Unit Development District is to provide for the
integration and coordination of land parcels as well as the combination of varying types
of residential, commercial and industrial uses. The City has a limited number of areas
zoned PUD. Most development is zoned residential or commercial and is applied with a
PUD to allow for mixed use and multiple structures on one parcel.
River Impact District
The River Impact District is established to provide necessary protection to lands which
fall within the designated regional floodplain and Lower St. Croix National Scenic
Riverway area as defined by Minnesota Department of Natural Resources regulations.
This district shall include all lands lying riverward from the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul
and Pacific Railroad right-of-way. Application of district regulations shall be imposed as
an overlay upon currently applied zoning use districts.
ZONING DISTRICT AREA WIDTH SETBACK AND BUILDING REGULATIONS
The specific requirements for each of the zoning districts is found on the following page.
The complete lot area and width, setbacks, building height and other zoning regulations
are found in the General Provisions section of the Zoning Ordinance. A copy of the
Zoning Ordinance is on file at City Hall.
The table, as follows, summarizes all of the established zoning districts along with their
minimum lot area, width, setbacks, lot coverage and other standards. It is intended as a
general reference source.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
" , City of Oak Park Heights Page 41
LAND USE - PHYSICAL PROFILE
OAK PARK HEIGHTS SUMMARY OF ZONING DISTRICT CLASSIFICATIONS AND
REQUIREMENTS
Minimum Setbacks Principal
Zoning Minimum Lot Width F S-I S-C R Building
District District Classification Lot Size (interior) Height
0 Open Space Conservation 5 acres 200 feet 50 30 30 50 35 feet
R-1 Single Family Residential 10,300 sf 80 feet 30 10 30 30 35 feet
R-1A Single Family Residential 12,500 sf 85 feet 30 10 30 30 35 feet
R-1B Single Family Residential 15,000 sf 90 feet 30 10 30 30 35 feet
R-1C Single Family Residential 20,000 sf 100 feet 30 10 30 30 35 feet
R-2 Low and Medium Density 10,400 sf 90 feet 30 10 30 30 35 feet
Residential
R-3 Multiple Family Residential 15,000 sf 100 feet 30 20 20 30 35 feet
R-B Residential Business 15,000 sf 100 feet 30 10 10 30 35 feet
Transitional
B-1 Neighborhood Business 15,000 sf 100 feet 30 20 20 30 35 feet
B-2 General Business 15,000 sf 100 feet 40 10 20 20 35 feet
B-3 Highway Business and 15,000 sf 100 feet 40 10 20 20 35 feet
Warehousing
B-4 Limited Business 15,000 sf 100 feet 40 10 20 20 35 feet
B-W Business/Warehousing 30,000 sf 100 feet 50 20 50 20 35 feet
I Industrial 1 acre 100 feet 50 30 30 40 45 feet
P-I Public/Institutional varies --- varies 45 feet
PUD Planned Unit Development --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
River Impact District --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
Source: City of Oak Park Heights
F = Front yard setback as measured from the property line
S-I = Side yard setback on interior lots
S-C = Side yard setback on corner lots
R = Rear yard setback
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INSERT ZONING MAP
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INTRODUCTION
The value of a Comprehensive Plan for Oak Park Heights is only partially found in the
plans, maps, and data. Although such information is a critical element of any plan, the
changing nature of that information can give a community only a snapshot of its needs or
direction. A more comprehensive review of the community and its direction can be found
through its adopted goals and policies.
The goals and policies do not provide information on the timelines and priorities needed
for development or community improvements. Instead, it provides a series of criteria
which can be used to direct general actions. Furthermore,the policies are not absolute
directions for City staff, Planning Commission, or City Council members. Instead,they
are guides to assist in decision-making and goal achievement. Moreover, the policies
should be considered and utilized collectively. In some cases,a single policy may define
and outline a course of action. More frequently, however, a group of policies will be
applied to a given situation.
The flexibility and adoptability of the goals and policies is particularly useful when
unanticipated development decisions emerge. It complements the maps,ordinances and
City Code which are more static documents. In some instances,policies may not address
a new situation in the community. In this case,the goals and policies should be updated
or modified. This would give the Comprehensive Plan an up-to-date quality which will
withstand the test of time.
For purposes of definition, goals may be described as the ways in which we think about
the community—descriptive statements of the ultimate direction we would want to see
the City proceed. Policies may be described generally as positions the City will take on
a specific issue.
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Natural resources are of prime importance to the community. In addition to serving as
aesthetic amenities which enhance the quality of life in the area, natural areas often
perform important ecological roles.
These natural features can serve as buffers or barriers in determining the extent and
direction of development and growth. Therefore,it is necessary that special consideration
be given to natural features and systems in formulating Oak Park Heights'
Comprehensive Plan. Environmentally sensitive areas include those characterized by
waterbodies,floodplain,steep slopes,vegetation,soil limitations,and wetlands. The City
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has expressed an interest in the preservation and enhancement of these features within
the City limits.
WETLANDS, LAKES AND STREAMS AND GROUND WATER
Goal: Preserving the water resources of the St. Croix River and existing wetlands
and streams is recognized as a high priority in Oak Park Heights.
Policies:
A. Restrict or prohibit development/redevelopment within Oak Park Heights'
drainageways, floodplains, wetlands, and other natural features which perform
important environmental functions in their natural state.
B. Require all development/redevelopment to manage its on-site storm water
generation to ensure no negative impact to downstream flooding or water quality.
Assure that the systems are maintained as required in development agreements.
C. Require grading and drainage plans as part of any new residential or commercial
development/redevelopment. These plans must illustrate proposed drainage
patterns, plans for on-site storm water retention and erosion control.
D. Maintain and update as necessary floodplain, shoreland and wetland regulations
to regulate development within these sensitive areas.
E. Incorporate low impact development (LID) principles and practices into design,
construction and operation of public projects as feasible.
F. Work with residential and commercial developers to incorporate low impact
development practices that protect native vegetation and soils and reduce
impervious surface.
TREES, LANDSCAPING AND STREETSCAPING
Goal: Provide continuing and enhanced streetscapes, landscaping as part of
development/redevelopment, and protection and preservation of the
community's vegetative resources.
Policies:
A. Continue to implement and expand the City's comprehensive streetscaping and
landscaping efforts through participation in Tree City USA and development
review.
B. As a high priority in the City, preserve and protect existing stands of mature trees.
C. Promote programs designed to protect trees from disease.
D. Require all development/redevelopment proposals to indicate the location, type,
and condition of existing vegetation, and preserve existing trees wherever feasible.
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E. Require that development/redevelopment projects within the City plant new trees,
particularly in areas where existing vegetation is removed.
F. Provide City financial support to the ongoing tree protection, streetscape and
landscaping programs.
NATURAL FEATURES
Goal: Ensure preservation and enhancement of slopes and soils in Oak Park
Heights through careful development review and approvals.
Policies:
A. In areas of soils that have limitations for development/redevelopment, perform soil
testing to identify the soil correction measures necessary to insure safe and quality
construction.
B. Require erosion control plans for all site grading to prevent erosion, dust, and soil
sedimentation.
C. Restrict or prohibit development/redevelopment on steep slopes. In instances
where development on steep slopes is permitted, plans must be provided for
grading and erosion control which prevent erosion, dust, and soil sedimentation.
AIR QUALITY AND POLLUTION
Goal: Protection of air quality and ground water and soils, as well as efforts to
control noise and light pollution, are important to the community.
Policies:
A. Incorporate State and Federal pollution regulations into local policy as required.
B. Require a ground water monitoring plan or ground water protection plan as part of
a permit application for businesses that store, use or transport hazardous materials
and for properties formerly used as a waste disposal site or waste transit facility.
Where available, use well head protection plans to assist with this process.
C. Assure coordination with other adjoining jurisdictions for ground water sensitive
areas, well head protection areas, water use contingency and allocation plans, and
other ground water issues where plans may affect other jurisdictions.
RECYCLING AND SOLID WASTE REDUCTION
Goal: Encourage recycling programs and solid waste reduction initiatives.
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Policies:
A. Recycling programs which conserve natural resources shall be continued and
promoted.
B. Oak Park Heights shall encourage enhanced waste reduction/separation practices
to improve solid waste management.
C. Residential and commercial generators of solid waste shall be encouraged to act
voluntarily to evaluate their use of energy and raw materials and to reduce
consumption where technically and economically feasible.
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Goal 1: Create a sustainable community that provides balance between a growing
economy, protection for the environment and social responsibility to
enhance the quality of life while preserving the same for future
generations.
Policies:
A. Promote the use of sustainable design practices during all phases of development
including design, deconstruction, construction, and building operation and
maintenance.
B. Promote national, regional and state sustainable building design programs
including utility-sponsored renewable energy and conservation programs.
Goal 2: Create a livable community where development incorporates sustainable
design elements such as resource and energy conservation and use of
renewable energy.
Policies:
A. Encourage energy and resource conservation strategies to limit the effects of
climate change, including decreased use of fossil fuels and shift to renewable
energy resources.
B. Promote the use of renewable energy, including solar energy, in new residential
and commercial developments.
C. Review the potential for use of renewable energy, including solar energy, in all
new public buildings.
D. Consider varying setback requirements within PUD's in all residential and
commercial zoning districts as a means of protecting solar access.
E. Implement alternative energy regulations including solar, wind energy,
geothermal and biomass requirements in the Zoning Ordinance.
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Goal 3: Protect and enhance air quality and reduce the emission of greenhouse
gases and control of climate change locally and globally.
Policies:
A. Encourage alternative transportation by providing trails and encouraging transit
opportunities. Continue expanding the trail system by implementing the Park and
Trail System Plan.
B. Educate and inform businesses and residents about opportunities and incentives
to increase the utilization of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind,
geothermal, and biomass.
C. Improve the City's environmental performance by setting targets, using
innovative approaches, encouraging employees to conserve resources and
improving on the existing recycling program as an example to residents and
business owners.
D. Support and encourage community efforts in environmental awareness and
education through the use of the City web site, programs, newsletters and the
media.
Goal 4: Reduce waste stream toxicity and amount; minimize generation of
hazardous waste and increase reuse, recycling, composting and
purchasing of environmentally preferred products with minimal or no
packaging.
Policies:
A. Support and encourage community efforts in environmental awareness and
education.
B. Support waste reduction activities including recycling, reuse, and composting
through policies and educational outreach opportunities for citizens and
businesses.
C. Emphasize the importance of directing waste that cannot be reused, recycled, or
composted to facilities that recover some of the energy value in garbage with use
of landfills as the last alternative.
D. Continue to provide and encourage curbside recycling of reusable waste
materials through educational events, promotional materials and volunteer
efforts.
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LAND USE
Land use goals create a vehicle by which the community can determine, organize and
define the character and intensity of development and redevelopment in Oak Park
Heights. The policies will guide proposed land use through the stages of growth and
change planned for the community. Related to land use, the protection of the natural
environment is of major importance to Oak Park Heights and the surrounding area. The
focus for land use in the City will be the continual development infill of residential,
commercial and industrial areas. Redevelopment, especially in commercial areas along
the Highway 36 corridor, will also be a priority in the next 20 years.
GENERAL LAND USE
Goal 1: Provide for responsible and orderly expansion of the City's land area as
requested by property owners and agreed to by the affected jurisdiction.
Policies:
A. The City, in planning for future land use, transportation/community facilities or
utility extensions, may include areas not within its municipal boundaries. This
planning is done in anticipation of demand for services to accommodate future
urban growth.
B. The City shall extend utility service to only those areas that are within the City,
annexed to the City or part of an orderly annexation agreement.
C. The City should consider annexation only if requested by the property owner and
agreed to by the affected jurisdiction.
D. The City shall plan its utility, service and street extensions to accommodate long
term growth and expansion in the community.
E. The City will work to achieve cooperation in annexation requests by discussing
annexation issues with adjacent townships and municipalities.
F. Orderly annexation will be considered in order to identify boundaries and target
years for areas eligible for orderly annexation.
Goal 2: A cohesive land use pattern which ensures compatibility and strong
functional relationships among activities is to be implemented.
Policies:
A. Prevent over-intensification of land use development, that is, development which
is not accompanied by a sufficient level of supportive services and facilities
(utilities, parking, access, etc.).
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B. Examine requested land use changes in relation to adjoining land uses, site
accessibility, utility availability, and consistency with the Oak Park Heights
Comprehensive Plan and policies.
C. Attempt to make transitions between distinctly differing types of land uses in an
orderly fashion which does not create a negative (economic, social or physical)
impact on adjoining developments.
D. Infill development of compatible land uses shall be strongly encouraged.
E. Where practical, conflicting and non-complementary uses shall be eliminated
through removal and relocation.
F. Encourage the development and redevelopment of under-utilized and substandard
property throughout the City.
Goal 3: The preservation, protection and continued use of areas, buildings, and
structures that have historic, aesthetic or community values is of benefit to
Oak Park Heights.
Policies:
A. Where practical, safeguard the heritage of the City by preserving sites and
structures that reflect elements of the City's cultural, political, economic, visual or
architectural history.
B. Foster community identity and civic pride by promoting the preservation and
continued use of historic sites and structures for the education and general welfare
of the people of Oak Park Heights.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION
Goal: The preservation, protection and continued use of areas, buildings,
structures and other objects that have historic, aesthetic or community
values is a benefit to the welfare and education of the City of Oak Park
Heights.
Policies:
A. Safeguard the heritage of the City by preserving sites and structures that reflect
elements of the City's cultural, political, economic, visual or architectural history;
evaluate and establish historic districts.
B. Promote the preservation and continued use of historic sites and structures for the
education and general welfare of the people of Oak Park Heights.
C. Foster community identity and civic pride by protecting historical area, structures
or accomplishments of the past.
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RESIDENTIAL LAND USE
Goal 1: Provide a variety of housing types, styles and values to meet the needs of
the community and the changing demographics of the City and region
through new development and redevelopment.
Policies:
A. Encourage design and planning innovations in housing units and land
development.
B. Recognize the development of townhouses, condominiums and non-traditional
home types to supplement existing conventional single-family homes, and
apartments, giving due consideration to local market demands.
C. Attempt to provide housing opportunities which attract persons of all ages and
income levels and which allow them the ability to maintain residence within Oak
Park Heights throughout the various stages of their lives.
D. Allow the development of additional owner and renter occupied affordable housing
units on a case-by-case basis to achieve established housing goals.
E. Encourage development of housing options to meet the needs of all segments of
the population, including the disabled, and senior living options through life cycle
housing.
F. Housing units identified as substandard for safe occupancy shall be rehabilitated,
replaced, or developed with an appropriate guided land use, wherever possible.
Goal 2: Maintain and enhance the strong character of Oak Park Heights' single
family residential neighborhoods.
Policies:
A. Promote private reinvestment in the City's single-family housing stock.
B. Pursue the redevelopment of substandard single-family homes when it is judged
not economically feasible to correct the deficiencies.
C. Encourage single family home rehabilitation programs through the City.
Goal 3: Promote multiple family housing alternatives as an alternative life cycle
housing option.
Policies:
A. Consider the redevelopment of substandard multiple family properties that display
deteriorated building conditions, no site amenities, poor site design, or
incompatible land use patterns.
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B. Encourage developers of medium and high-density developments to provide
adequate accessory amenities such as garages, parking, open space,
landscaping, and recreational facilities to ensure a safe, functional, and desirable
living environment.
C. Consider mixed land uses as an alternative land use option in planning and
redevelopment of obsolete commercial, industrial, or residential areas.
D. Avoid concentrations of multiple family dwellings and apartments in the City.
Locate such housing within appropriately designated zoning districts and in
proximity to areas which offer a wide range of existing supportive services,
commercial and recreational facilities.
COMMERCIAL LAND USE
Goal 1: Maintain and improve Oak Park Heights' commercial areas as vital retail
and service locations.
Policies:
A. Encourage communication with local business people to gain an understanding of
the changing needs of the business environment.
B. Promote a full and broad range of office, service, retail, and entertainment uses
within the commercial areas of Oak Park Heights.
C. Attract new businesses to Oak Park Heights that will contribute to the customer
attraction and business interchange of the local commercial areas.
D. Promote the redevelopment and expansion of existing businesses within the City
to obtain a higher level of sales and business attraction.
Goal 2: Promote continued development, investment and enhancements in the
commercial areas.
Policies:
A. Promote a mixed-use environment within the commercial areas consisting of retail,
office, and service land uses.
B. Encourage a combination of public and private investment in the commercial areas
for public improvements and building redevelopment.
C. Address parking issues and review supply and demand, signage and education
programs for better parking-utilization.
D. Update architectural design guidelines as necessary to guide the commercial
areas' development and redevelopment.
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E. Substandard residential and commercial properties shall be rehabilitated, replaced
or redeveloped in conformance with the land use plan.
Goal 3: Encourage continued development and redevelopment activities along the
City's highway corridors.
Policies:
A. Encourage private and continued City investment in the Highway 36 corridor.
B. Encourage investment in rehabilitation and redevelopment of substandard
properties along the highway corridors.
C. Ensure that all service and commercial uses are adequately screened or buffered
from any adjacent residential development.
D. Commercial and service areas should provide safe and convenient pedestrian
movement, including access for persons with disabilities.
BUSINESS/WAREHOUSE/INDUSTRIAL LAND USE
Goal 1: Retain Oak Park Heights' existing business/warehouse and industrial land
uses to ensure a diverse tax base and local employment opportunities.
Policies:
A. The City will continue its efforts in retaining and attracting new businesses for new
development and redevelopment.
B. The City will work with Xcel Energy on issues related to the Allan S. King Power
Plant and its potential closing, as well as transmission lines and substations within
Oak Park Heights.
Goal 2: Maintain a high standard of business/warehouse and industrial
development including appearance of sites, buildings and outside storage
areas.
Policies:
A. Encourage site upkeep and maintenance to promote a positive business/
warehouse and industrial and commercial image for Oak Park Heights.
B. Promote high quality business/warehouse and industrial construction to ensure
building durability and an aesthetically attractive appearance.
C. Existing and new business/warehouse and industrial development shall not cause
pollutants or contaminants to be emitted into the surrounding environment
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(including air, soils, ground water, drainageways, sanitary sewer and storm sewer)
in excess of state and federal regulations.
INSTITUTIONAL LAND USE
Goal 1: Cooperate with existing and expanding institutional facilities to ensure
compatibility and a high level of design.
Policies:
A. Transitions between differing types of land uses must be done in an orderly fashion
while minimizing impacts on adjoining development.
B. All institutional development proposals must be analyzed to determine the most
appropriate land uses within a neighborhood and the community as a whole.
C. Adequately screen, landscape and buffer institutional facilities to minimize the
impact on surrounding uses and enhance the neighborhood and community in
which they are located.
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INTRODUCTION
Based upon the foundation established by the Physical Profile and the Goals and Policies,
this section provides the framework to guide community growth and improvements. The
Land Use Plan is a narrative and graphic description that provides the background and
rationale for land use designations as represented on the Proposed Land Use Map. The
plan has an educational and decision-making function, helping to improve the general
understanding of how physical development in the City of Oak Park Heights should take
place. Although the emphasis of this section is on land development, other areas such
as transportation, community service and facility needs are also addressed.
The Land Use Plan is divided into two main categories. The first section describes the
basis for Oak Park Heights' community plan, including population projections as well as
how the natural features of the area will be protected. The second section describes
general land use plan elements, including a discussion of the Proposed Land Use Map
and review of residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional development.
BASIS OF THE COMMUNITY PLAN
The major planning objective of Oak Park Heights is to establish and maintain attractive,
high quality living and working environments for community residents. In providing for
these environments, the City recognizes the necessity of providing utilities and services
that are demanded with urban development. Through the comprehensive planning
process, the City has the ability to direct and focus development in a pattern that
maximizes the utilization of existing utilities and services. This type of land use
management assists the community in regulating and budgeting for investment in future
public utilities, streets, and service needs.
With limited vacant land, it is likely that the City will be almost completely developed by
2025. Small parcels of residential property scattered throughout the community will be
infilled with single family and townhome development. Commercial areas along
Highways 36 and 15, west of Oakgreen Avenue, will also be completely filled in.
Redevelopment activities will likely focus on commercial areas east of Oakgreen along
the Highway 36 corridor. Based upon this premise, the focus of the land use,
transportation, community facilities/administrative sections of this Comprehensive Plan
will be on redevelopment, infill and maintenance of the community.
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PROJECTED GROWTH
Population and Households
The City of Oak Park Heights has had steady population growth. The expanding
residential and commercial sectors as well as the attractiveness of the community in its
location in the St. Croix River Valley has resulted in a steady population growth.
Household and population growth of the community from 1980 to 2016 is found in the
following table.
OAK PARK HEIGHTS HOUSEHOLD AND POPULATION GROWTH
1980 1990 2,000 2010 2016
Population 2,591 3,486 3,957 4,445 4,712
Households 955 1,322 1,528 1,911 2,199
Household Size 2.71 2.63 2.26 2.05 1.93
Source: U.S. Census, Metropolitan Council
The numbers above reflect the national and state trends of smaller household size. With
limited residential available, the expected population will continue to grow but at a much
slower rate.
Population, Household and Employment Projections
The Metropolitan Council, in its Thrive MSP 2040 Plan, has projected population,
household and employment forecasts. These forecasts are accepted by the City as the
basis for growth through 2040.
OAK PARK HEIGHTS POPULATION, HOUSEHOLDS AND EMPLOYMENT
PROJECTIONS
2010
Census 2017 2020 2030 2040
Population 4,445 4,742 4,880 5,300 5,700
Households 1,911 2,257 2,200 2,420 2,600
Employment 4,358 4,494 4,600 5,100 5,500
Source: U.S. Census, Metropolitan Council
As indicated above, the Metropolitan Council projects that the population of the City will
exceed 5,000 persons between 2020 and 2030. With recent senior housing
developments, Oak Park Heights projects that the City will reach 5,000 persons before
2020. Once the City nears 5,500 to 5,700 people, the population will likely level off. With
no additional residential land available, it is expected the City's population will likely
stabilize between 5,500 and 5,700 people. The household projections show a steady
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increase to 2,600 by the year 2040. The increase in households versus the stable
population levels is due to the ongoing trend of lower household size. The City will
experience limited infill development which will increase the number of households but
likely not to the extent projected by the Metropolitan Council.
Employment numbers are also projected to increase to a total of 4,600 in 2020, 5,100 in
2030, and 5,500 in 2040.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND SUSTAINABILITY
Environment
A variety of benefits are associated with environmental protection in Oak Park Heights.
Environmentally sensitive development will create a more aesthetic living and working
environment and prevent future public investment needed for clean up or reclamation.
The purpose of the City's environmental regulations and the Zoning Ordinance is to
protect the public health, safety, and welfare of the community. The City has adopted
floodplain and wetland and stormwater regulations to provide the levels of protection to
preserve natural resources.
Environmental awareness and protection should generally address the following in Oak
Park Heights:
1 . Implement and update, as necessary, environmental regulations such as
floodplain, wetland, stormwater, tree preservation regulations for the protection of
rivers, natural features, lakes, wetlands, and trees.
2. Direct development throughout the City that is compatible with environmentally
sensitive areas.
3. Address stormwater issues in all areas of the City through development and
appropriate facilities to hold and treat runoff. Utilize existing wetlands and low
areas to the extent possible for stormwater retention.
4. Work with Washington County and the Watershed Districts with ongoing
stormwater projects and recycling programs.
5. Utilize Best Management Practices for addressing stormwater runoff and retention.
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6. Encourage alternative energy sources such as solar and wind energy in
appropriate areas of the City.
7. Extend utilities, as necessary, with annexation to address environmental issues
associated with development outside of the City boundaries.
Sustainability
The City of Oak Park Heights has recognized the importance of the conservation and
preservation of water, air, energy and other natural resources in order to achieve a more
sustainable community. It is recognized that there are four areas in which the City can
preserve natural resources and ensure that development recognizes the value of
environmental protection. An effective implementation program includes the work of
commissions, ordinance updates, permitting and other regulatory mechanisms; design
guidelines and performance standards; public education and involvement; and
intergovernmental cooperation.
The following implementation items are to be pursed:
1 . Implement sustainable development practices into the design, construction and
operation of City facilities as feasible.
2. Work with developers to apply sustainable building practices in private sector
development and redevelopment. Utilize utility-sponsored renewable energy and
conservation programs where possible in development projects.
3. Continue to expand and promote the City sidewalk and trail system to encourage
an alternate form of transportation not dependent upon motorized vehicle use.
4. Work with the Metropolitan Council on expanding the transit service to Oak Park
Heights and the St Croix Valley area.
5. Work on the development of an environmental awareness program that is
designed to educate and inform residents and developers on energy efficiency
and utilization of renewable energy sources.
6. Develop a City policy on conservation of energy, to be used at all City facilities
and by all employees that can be used as a model for the rest of the community.
7. Continue developing programs for recycling, reuse and composting as well as
the education of citizens and businesses on waste reduction.
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8. Work with the contracted waste hauler on alternatives to reducing the amount of
material that will be land filled.
Solar Access Protection and Alternative Energy Systems
Ensuring that all properties have equal access to sunlight is a priority not only for potential
solar energy systems, but for the protection of property and aesthetic values as well.
Solar access protection is provided for by the uniform implementation of lot and building
performance standards adopted as part of the Zoning Ordinance. Requirements such as
maximum building height and yard setback standards have been implemented for
creating separation between structures and allowing equal sunlight access between
structures. Additionally, the City adopted alternative energy system regulations in 2010
to promote and encourage ground source heat pump, wind and solar energy systems.
The map on the following page indicates the gross solar potential for Oak Park Heights.
The gross solar potential and gross solar rooftop potential for the City are expressed in
megawatt hours per year (Mwh/yr) and are estimates of how much electricity could be
generated using existing technology and assumptions on the efficiency of conversion.
The solar potential for Oak Park Heights is as follows:
Oak Park Heights Gross Solar Potential and Gross Solar Rooftop Potential
Gross Potential Rooftop Potential Gross Generation Rooftop
(Mwhlyr) (Mwh/yr) Potential (Mwh/yr) Generation
Potential (Mwh/yr)
4,484,353 425,301 448,435 42,530
Source: Metropolitan Council
ANNEXATION
The City's policy toward annexation is consistent with the 2008 Comprehensive Plan. It
is recognized, just as it was in 2008, that the City will not aggressively pursue areas of
annexation from the Townships or detachment/annexation from one of the adjoining
cities.
As part of the planning process, the City has identified one area that potentially could
become part of the City in the next 20 years. The property is identified in the Future
Annexation Plan, found on a following page. The City would consider this area for
annexation if petitioned by the property owners and if the affected jurisdiction was willing
to detach the property. The area is at the intersection of Highway 36 and Manning
Avenue. The property is recognized as having value for commercial development if utility
and street infrastructure are extended by Oak Park Heights but paid for by the developers.
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INSERT GROSS SOLAR POTENTIAL MAP
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INSERT FUTURE ANNEXATION PLAN
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ALLEN S.KING PLANT
The Xcel Energy - Allen S. King Plant is a 511 mega-watt coal-fired facility that was
constructed in 1968 along the St.Croix River on approximately 60 acres.The King Plant
underwent a major retrofit in 2004 to reduce emissions. However,like many power plant
facilities, the repair and maintenance become expensive for Xcel Energy compared to
alternative investment in new technology and facilities to generate the same power at a
lesser cost.
This reality is also likely true for the King Plant as coal facilities are beginning to fall behind
other opportunities for generating the same energy capacity. Representative of this is
Xcel Energy's installation of over 1,200 Megawatts(three times the capacity of the King
Plant)of wind facilities in the upper midwest alone and over 3,330 megawatts nationwide;
the advancement of solar energy with the rapid deployment of"solar gardens"around the
State;and finally,a conversion of coal facilities to natural gas such as the Xcel's Sherco
facility in Becker,Minnesota.
Therefore,the City expects that the King Plant will close if the shift away from coal as an
energy source continues. The timing of this closure may depend on a number of factors
but is reasonable to predict that in the next twenty years the King Plant will be
decommissioned.This closure would be a complex decision of both Xcel Energy and the
Public Utility Commission as rates and energy demand will be closely monitored to ensure
the utility grid remains stable.
Why is this important to the City?
Beyond the environmental discussions or base-load capacity elements, it is important to
understand that when this power plant was originally constructed in Oak Park Heights,
there was a commitment to the local community from Xcel Energy that there would be a
significant tax benefit to its residents in exchange for having this facility in the community.
While there have been annual fluctuations,this tax benefit remains. Currently, the City
receives 33 percent of its annual property tax revenue from the King Plant or
approximately 1.7 million dollars.
If the King Plant closes and no longer remains a viable source of tax revenue, the City
will have a significant gap in its ability to fund municipal services.Accordingly,the City,
like many other communities that host power plants(being coal, nuclear or natural gas)
must begin to contemplate about how it would respond when such closure happens.
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More specifically, what would happen to the Allen S. King Plant site? How or could the
budget gap be addressed without a passage of such costs to others? Will the site have
ongoing environmental issues?
1. At this time there are no clear answers to these questions, no plans or reuse
contemplated for the current site along the St. Croix River, or how such a closure
would unfold.
2. There are significant questions that the City and greater community must begin
to consider as this closure will likely have a broad impact in the St. Croix River
Valley.
3. The City plans to engage with Xcel Energy, community members, and State and
local government partners to begin to explore the issues and opportunities that a
potential closure of the King Plant will present.
LAND USE COMPATIBILITY
Land use compatibility concerns exist, primarily in the older sections of the community,
and where commercial development is adjacent to residential homes and neighborhoods.
High density residential or commercial development adjacent to single family
neighborhoods can intensify unwanted activity in the area and impose impacts on parking,
traffic and noise that may be uncharacteristic of single family neighborhoods.
To respond to these land use compatibility concerns, the Comprehensive Plan
establishes a policy of screening, landscaping and buffering commercial establishments
near or within residential areas to minimize the impact on surrounding uses and enhance
the neighborhood and community. The City, through its Comprehensive Plan, may
determine that certain businesses should be relocated out of a neighborhood, or a
collection of homes no longer functions as a neighborhood and the area would be better
suited for higher intensity uses. Such redevelopment efforts are costly and, in most
cases, may need to be accomplished with the assistance of the City or its Economic
Development Authority. Additionally, the Comprehensive Plan calls for the proper
transition between high and low density residential development. The City, through its
plan and Zoning Ordinance, shall transition residential development so as not to create
negative living environments. Concentration of one type of housing style or density can
also create issues for the proper development of neighborhoods.
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HISTORIC PRESERVATION
The City has identified two sites deemed historic within the physical profile section of the
Land Use Plan. These sites, Phil's Tara Hideaway and the Stillwater Overlook have been
recognized as historic in the community. The City will continue to work with the Minnesota
Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) on preservation and maintenance of the
overlook on Lookout Trail North. Phil's Tara Hideaway is in use today as a restaurant
and bar. The City will work with the property owners to ensure that the original log cabin
look is preserved.
Due to the limited number of historic structures and sites, the City does not anticipate the
need fora preservation ordinance or establishment of a historic preservation commission.
HOUSING
Residential
The Policy Plan promotes the development of a diversified housing stock which is
affordable to a wide range of incomes. The plan also establishes guidelines to protect
residential neighborhoods from encroachment or intrusion of incompatible, higher
intensity uses through the use of buffers and appropriate land use transitions.
For the most part, Oak Park Heights has followed a traditional residential growth pattern
with growth emanating outward from the St. Croix River and Highway 36. As previously
indicated, the community is almost completely built out in terms of residential
development. The addition of housing units will be through small infill projects.
The table on the following page indicates the total housing units from 1990 to 2016. The
number of single family homes has increased from 1990 and 2016, but as a percentage
of the total numbers of units, it has decreased from 47.3 percent to 34.4 percent in 2016.
The number of multiple family units has increased significantly, and as a percentage of
the total housing units has gone from 38.2 percent to 48.3 percent. This rise in multiple
family units has resulted from the development of Boutwells Landing and Oak Park Senior
Living that has provided needed housing in the area at all price ranges.
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OAK PARK HEIGHTS TOTAL HOUSING UNITS
1990 Percent 2000 Percent 2010 Percent 2016 Percent
of Total of Total of Total of Total
Single Family 663 47.3 790 49.8 805 38.1 802 34.4
Detached
Townhomes Single 64 4.5 134 8.5 264 12.5 268 11.5
Family Detached
Duplex, Triplex, 126 9.0 138 8.7 134 6.3 134 5.8
Quad
Multiple Family (5 535 38.2 525 33.0 912 43.1 1,124 48.3
units or more)
Other 10 1.0 - - - - -
Total 1,398 100% 1,587 100% 2,115 100% 2,328 100%
Source: U.S. Census, Metropolitan Council
The table as follows indicates the owner occupied, renter occupied and vacant housing.
In 1990, the percent of owner occupied housing was 59.2 percent versus 35.3 percent
rental occupied. With the significant increase in senior rental housing, the owner-
occupied housing declined to 44.6 percent and the renter occupied housing increased to
46.0 percent of the total. The amount of vacant housing has remained relatively
consistent over the past 25 years.
OAK PARK HEIGHTS OWNER OCCUPIED, RENTER OCCUPIED AND VACANT
HOUSING
1990 Percent 2000 Percent 2010 Percent 2015 Percent
of Total of Total of Total of Total
Owner Occupied 828 59.2 1,054 66.7 1,070 52.5 1,031 44.6
Renter Occupied 494 35.3 474 29.9 772 37.9 1,063 46.0
Vacant 76 5.5 53 3.4 197 9.6 218 9.4
Total 1,398 100% 1,581 100% 2,039 100% 2,312 100%
Source: U.S. Census, Metropolitan Council
The table below indicates the change in median housing value and median gross rent
from 1990 to 2015.
OAK PARK HEIGHTS MEDIAN HOUSING VALUE AND MEDIAN GROSS
RENT
1990 2000 2010 2015
Median Housing Value $85,300 $148,400 $226,900 $201,700
Median Gross Rent $482 $614 $950 $1,398
Source: U.S. Census, Metropolitan Council
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The map on the following page indicates the owner-occupied single-family residential
housing values. Note that most of the housing is within the $151,500 to $236,000
housing value. The map also indicates the 2018 affordable housing levels based upon
Average Medium Income (AMI).
As follows, please find a 2017 inventory of multiple family, condominium, townhouse and
duplex units in Oak Park Heights.
2017 OAK PARK HEIGHTS INVENTORY OF MULITPLE FAMILY, CONDOMINIUM,
TOWNHOUSE, AND DUPLEX UNITS
Name Address Number
of Units
Multiple Family (10 units or more)
Oakgreen Commons 13936 Lower 59th Street 120
Presbyterian Homes Care Center 13575 58th Street 108
Presbyterian Homes 5590 Norwich Parkway 101
Presbyterian Homes 5610 Norwich Parkway 101
Ramie Johnson Estates 14830 58th Street 96
TIC Properties 6060 Oxboro Avenue 86
Oak Park Associates 6120 Oxboro Avenue 72
Oakgreen Senior Villas 13945 Upper 58th Street 62
Oak Park Senior Living 13865 58th Street 62
Sunnyside Apartments 6120 Oxboro Avenue 59
Heartland Stillwater 14850 62nd Street 51
Presbyterian Homes 5450 Nolan Parkway 46
St. Croix Crossing Apartments 14843-14847 60th Street 45
Oak Park Senior Apartments 13924 Lower 59th Street 30
Presbyterian Homes 5350 Nolan Parkway 20
Presbyterian Homes 5260 Nolan Parkway 12
Other(Less than 10 units) 60
Condominium (10 units or more)
Sunnyside II Homeowners 6351 St. Croix Trail 33
Fox Hollow East 14937 60th Street 29
Sunnyside II Homeowners 6375 St. Croix Trail 26
Other(Less than 10 units 174
Townhouses
Total Townhouse Units 225
Duplexes
Total Duplex Units 54
Source: City of Oak Park Heights
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Livable Communities
In 1996, the City adopted a Livable Communities Action Plan in conformance with the
Metropolitan Livable Communities Act to address housing issues. The housing plan
encourages the development and maintenance of affordable and life cycle housing in the
City of Oak Park Heights. Additionally, the plan establishes housing goals and policies
that are to be implemented by specific programs, initiatives, and actions. Those initiatives
are directed specifically to provisions of additional affordable units, housing demand and
housing maintenance/rehabilitation. The issues of housing demand and maintenance are
addressed below.
The Average Median Income (AMI) is the midpoint of a region's income. Half of
households in a region earn more than the median and half earn less than the median.
The Metropolitan Council uses these income levels as a way to assess affordability. For
example, a housing unit is affordable if a household income is at or below 80 percent of
AMI, and the persons of the household can live there without spending more than 30
percent of their income on housing costs. The table below indicates the current
affordability levels.
OAK PARK HEIGHTS HOUSING UNITS AFFORDABLE TO HOUSEHOLDS WITH
INCOME AT OR BELOW AREA MEDIAN INCOME (AMI) 2016
30 percent or 31 percent to 50 51 percent
below percent to 80 percent
Oak Park Heights 245 413 911
Source: Metropolitan Council
Housing cost burden as reflected by numbers of households spending more than 30
percent of income on housing, is reflected below for homeowners and renters. The City
will continue to address this in cooperation with the Washington County CDA to ensure
the affordability of housing in the community. A listing of programs related to housing is
found in the Implementation Plan.
OAK PARK HEIGHTS HOUSING COST-BURDENED HOUSEHOLDS 2016
30 percent or 31 percent to 50 51 percent
below AMI percent AMI to 80 percent AMI
Oak Park Heights 245 413 911
Source: Metropolitan Council
Comprehensive Plan 2018
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INSERT OWNER-OCCUPIED SINGLE-FAMILY HOUSING VALUES MAP
Comprehensive Plan 2018
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Comprehensive Plan 2018
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The numbers of publicly subsidized units in 2016 within Oak Park Heights are as
follows:
OAK PARK HEIGHTS PUBLICLY SUBSIDIZED UNITS 2016
All Publicly Publicly Publicly Publicly
Subsidized Subsidized Subsidized Units Subsidized
Units Senior Units for People with Units: All
Disabilities Others
Oak Park Heights 70 62 0 8
Source: Metropolitan Council
The Metropolitan Council has forecasted affordable housing needs for all cities and
townships within the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area for the period from 2021 to 2030. The
housing plan element of the local comprehensive plan is required to reflect the allocated
portion of the forecasted demand for affordable housing. Oak Park Heights' share of this
allocation is 74 affordable housing units. The table below indicates the affordable housing
need allocation at or below 30 percent Area Median Income (AMI), from 31 percent to 50
percent AMI, and from 51 percent to 80 percent AMI.
OAK PARK HEIGHTS AFFORDABLE
HOUSING NEED ALLOCATION
At or Below 30 Percent AMI 33
From 31 Percent to 50 Percent AMI 11
From 51 Percent to 80 Percent AMI 30
Total Units 74
Note: AMI = Area Median Income
Source: Metropolitan Council
The City of Oak Park Heights remains committed to reaching this initiative. With the
continued development of affordable senior housing and other high-density development,
it is expected that this goal will be reached. The last phase of the Oak Park Senior Living
project at Oakgreen Avenue and 58th Street, will be completed in 2019 and include 72
affordable units. These units are set aside at the 60 percent of Washington County
medium income. The City will work with developers of high-density projects to include
affordable house units as part of their developments.
Housing Demand/Maintenance/Rehabilitation
With ongoing commercial development and job growth in the St. Croix Valley, the demand
for housing will remain strong. This demand will promote the infill development and
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possible redevelopment expected in the community. Much of the existing housing stock
in Oak Park Heights is assessed at less than the market value of new housing in the area.
As a result, the community provides a wide range of rental and ownership options for
affordable housing.
The City of Oak Park Heights has a role in development of a housing program for the
community. The City's basic roles of providing adequate/appropriately zoned land and
services is critical. The City must also be supportive of the Washington County
Community Development Agency (CDA) and its housing programs and funding sources
to bring about new construction, redevelopment, and rehabilitation where it will do the
most good to improve existing neighborhoods. Redevelopment of substandard properties
or working with local financial institutions on programs for first time homebuyers are
continuing programs for the Washington County CDA with the City's support.
Generally, Oak Park Height's housing stock appears to be in good condition, but there
are areas in the community where some homes show signs of deterioration and lots have
an unsightly appearance and outdoor storage issues. To insure quality neighborhoods
and to maintain property values, the City continues to take steps to improve residential
areas exhibiting signs of neglect. The City should consider the formulation and
enforcement of housing and ground maintenance regulations with specific attention to
building conditions, outdoor storage, and accessory uses. Effective enforcement of these
regulations is necessary and an ongoing responsibility of the City.
The community has been and continues to be supportive of rehabilitation programs for
existing dwelling units. Rehabilitation programs have been available through the
Washington County CDA. The City should continue to promote these programs, consider
establishing a local revolving fund for rehabilitation loans emphasizing low interest loans
to qualifying households, and to continue enforcement of existing codes and regulations
related to home and site maintenance and upkeep. The Implementation section of the
Comprehensive Plan discusses in more detail the housing programs that are available.
PROPOSED LAND USE MAP
As indicated, Oak Park Heights is designated as a "Suburban" in the Thrive MSP 2040
regional planning document adopted by the Metropolitan Council in 2014. Under that
classification, the overall density expectation is five units per acre. The Proposed Land
Use Map on a following page illustrates the 2040 land use for areas within the current
boundaries of the City. The map does not vary significantly from the Existing Land Use
Map in that the City is almost completely developed.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
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PROJECTED LAND USE ACREAGE AND RESIDENTIAL DENSITY
Based upon the Proposed Land Use Map, the City has calculated the projected acreage
of land use from 2017 to 2040 in five-year increments. The existing vacant, undeveloped
land area in the City as of 2017 is 56 acres although the City has identified an additional
21 acres of land that is underdeveloped with the potential for new construction in the
coming decades. Most of the projected development is expected for mid to high density,
commercial, and highway business land uses. The table as follows provides the
projected land use by category.
As of 2017, there were 254 acres of low density residential, 62 acres of medium density
residential, and 80 acres of high-density residential land use. These acreages include
only the land area devoted strictly to that use. All of the areas of waterbodies, wetlands,
parks and open space, right-of-way, and other undeveloped land has been removed from
these totals.
The resulting density in 2017 for each of these land use is as follows: the low density
residential density is 1-3 units per acre; the medium density residential density is 4-8 units
per acre; and the high density residential density is 8-12 units per acre.
LAND USE TABLE IN FIVE YEAR STAGES
Existing Proposed Acreage Change
Acreage
2017-
Category 2017 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 2040
Residential:
Low Density (1-3 units/acre) 254 261 265 265 265 265 11
Medium Density (4-8 units/acre) 62 62 68 70 70 70 8
High Density (8-12 units/acre) 80 80 86 92 98 98 18
Commercial and Industrial:
Commercial 205 205 214 226 226 226 21
Highway Business 69 71 76 84 84 84 15
Industrial 170 170 170 170 170 170 0
Other Land Uses:
School Facilities 128 128 128 128 128 128 0
Quasi-Public/Utility 11 11 11 11 11 11 0
Government 192 192 192 192 192 192 0
Park Facilities/Open Space 142 142 142 142 142 142 0
Water 390 390 390 390 390 390 0
Vacant/Underdeveloped 77 68 38 10 4 4 73
Right of Way 372 372 372 372 372 372 0
TOTAL LAND /WATER AREA 2,152 2,152 2,152 2,152 2,152 2,152 0
Source: The Planning Company, Inc.
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Residential Land Use
With the current redevelopment at Oak Park Boulevard and Oak Green Avenue North,
the single-family Palmer Station development will consist of 13 homes. This one of the
last pieces of property in the City that will accommodate Low Density Residential
development. Other areas of infill development include a property at Oakgreen Avenue
and 58th Street that could accommodate six single family homes, a property at Peller and
57th Street that could accommodate two additional single-family homes and property on
53rd Street that could accommodate two additional single-family homes. These areas are
designated as Low Density Residential on the Proposed Land Use Map and identified as
development areas.
In 2019, the last phase of the Oak Park Senior Living project at Oakgreen Avenue and
58th Street, will be completed and will include 72 units. Additional high-density
development will occur in an area along 58th Street between Norell Avenue and Nova
Scotia Avenue. This area designated as Business/Residential on the Proposed Land Use
Plan. Development anticipated by the City would include retail/office on one or two floors
with senior living or apartments above. This area is owned by Presbyterian Homes and
will likely have a senior living component in that it is adjacent to their Boutwell's Landing
development. Another small area of Business/Residential is along 60th Street, west of
Oakgreen Avenue. This area has a potential for a limited medium density redevelopment.
A third area is on Stage Coach Trail at the south east boundary of the City. It is currently
a mix of residential and commercial uses. There is a potential for a residential component
to a redevelopment in this area. These areas are designated as Business/Residential
Transitional on the Proposed Land Use Map and identified as development areas.
Commercial and Highway Business/Warehouse Land Use
Commercial development is also limited to smaller areas that are currently vacant
including property between 58th Street and 60th Street west of Menards, a former car
dealership at Highway 36 and Osgood Avenue, and a property at Osgood Avenue and
59th Street. These areas are designated as Commercial on the Proposed Land Use Map
and identified as development areas.
Additional Highway Business/Warehouse property is available along Memorial Avenue
North, at 58th Street. These are also identified as development areas and designated as
Highway Business on the Proposed Land Use Map.
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TRANSPORTATION - INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
The Transportation Plan is based on a total transportation system and how it relates to
and serves the land use patterns of the community. The transportation system
encompasses several users such as automobiles, pedestrians, bicycles, mass transit and
trucks.
The transportation system serves to tie together, and in some cases separate, the various
land use activities in the community. The Transportation Plan will present the basis for
programming and planning the extension of the community transportation system and
undeveloped areas of the City and surrounding areas.
The effect of growth and expansion of the community on the existing roadway systems,
especially those limited by existing rail, highway, or river crossings, is also part of the
Transportation Plan. Development of all alternative or additional routes in existing and
developing areas will also serve to lessen the impacts on the existing systems.
An integral part of the Transportation Plan will be the Comprehensive Park and Trail
System Plan. The plan was last updated in 2008. The Comprehensive Plan includes a
section entitled Park and Trail Plan that will update the 2008 plan.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
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ROADWAY AND HIGHWAY NETWORK
The City of Oak Park Heights is connected to and contains a number of transportation
modes,all of which contribute to the movement of goods and people throughout the City
and region. The significance of these existing and developing networks in terms of
economic, social and recreational considerations makes them a central concern for
comprehensive planning. The map on the following page indicates the existing network
of Township,County,and State highways as they relate to the City of Oak Park Heights.
FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION
The functional classification system for the City's streets and highways is based on the
usage of the roadways. The map on a following page indicates the existing functional
classification of the various roadways within the City. A description of the functional
classification system and identification of the roadways under each of the categories is
as follows. The Transportation Plan Map,found in a later section of this chapter,identifies
the future functional classification of roadways.
Principal Arterials
Principal arterials include all interstate freeways and other roadways which connect the
region with other areas in the state and other states. The emphasis of a principal arterial
is on mobility as opposed to local access. Spacing of principal arterials will vary from two
to three miles in a fully developed area. The principal arterial in the City is Highway 36,
which currently has two lanes for traffic flow in each direction with signalized left-hand
turn lanes at all intersections through the community. Highway 36 is connected to State
Highway 64 in Wisconsin via the St.Croix River Crossing that opened in August of 2017.
Highway 95 is also a principal arterial north of Highway 36 and has two lanes of traffic in
each direction.
Minor Arterials
Minor arterials connect the urban service area to cities and towns inside and outside the
region. They also provide supplementary connections between metro cities and regional
business concentrations. The emphasis of minor arterials is on mobility as opposed to
access in the urban areas. Minor arterials should connect to principal arterials, other
minor arterials, and collectors. The spacing of minor arterials in the metro centers and
regional business concentrations will vary from one-fourth to three-fourths mile. All of the
A-Minor arterials are one lane of traffic flow in each direction. The Functional
Classification map on a following page shows the minor arterials in the City.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
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Comprehensive Plan 2018
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Collectors
The collector system provides connection between neighborhoods and from
neighborhoods to business concentrations. Mobility and land access are equally
important but direct land use should predominantly be to development concentrations.
Collectors typically serve short trips of one to four miles. Spacing in the metro centers
and regional business concentrations may vary between one-eighth to one-half mile.
Collectors are divided into two categories: major and minor. The Functional
Classification map shows the major and minor collectors in the City.
Local Streets
All other roadways that do not fall into the functional classifications discussed above are
designated as local roadways. These streets are primarily designed to provide property
access.
TRAFFIC VOLUMES
The growth of the population within the St.Croix Valley and the opening of the St. Croix
River crossing in Oak Park Heights is indicated in the traffic volumes map on the following
page. Average daily traffic(ADT) volumes for the years 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 and
2016 are shown. On the major roadways,the ADT volumes have been increasing. With
the opening of the St.Croix River Crossing traffic volumes are expected to increase along
the Highway 36 corridor. The 2016 volume reflects a range of 26,500 ADT to 38,000 ADT
on the highway corridor through the City. The projected 2030 traffic volume on Highway
36 is expected to reach 55,000 ADT in that area between Oakgreen and Osgood
Avenues.
IMPROVEMENT PLANS—COUNTY
The Washington County Highway Department has developed a Five-Year Transportation
Capital Improvement Plan for the years 2017 and 2021. One Washington County
roadway, CSAH 24(Osgood Avenue) is programmed for intersection, safety, capacity,
and pedestrian/bicycle improvements in 2018. Although not in Oak Park Heights,
Washington County has programed in 2021 the Highway 36 and CSAH 15 (Manning
Avenue)study to provide an interchange at this location.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 84
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IMPROVEMENT PLANS—STATE
With the completion of the St.Croix River Crossing and the Highway 36 improvements in
2017, there are no other planned State projects in or near Oak Park Heights included
within the Long-Range Highway Capital Projects 2015-2024 of the 2040 Transportation
Policy Plan.
The Highway 36 intersections at Norell Avenue and the south west frontage road access
at Osgood Avenues will need to be improved and made safer in the very near future. With
increasing traffic levels, the intersections will become even more substandard and
dangerous. The City sees this as a transportation priority for the community.
STREET RECONSTRUCTION/MAINTENANCE PROGRAM
Since 1983, the City has planned and accomplished many sections of street
reconstruction. In 2014,the City developed a street reconstruction plan through 2036 as
represented in the map on the following page. Additionally, the City has done budget
planning to ensure adequate funds are reserved to accomplish the plan.
The City has also developed a maintenance plan for the ongoing mill and overlay of
streets. As with the reconstruction project, budget planning has been done to provide
funding for the maintenance program.
RAIL FACILITIES
Oak Park Heights contains one railroad line,which is utilized by Union Pacific. This line
serves the Allen S.King Power Plant. North of Oak Park Heights,this line turns into the
Minnesota Transportation Museum Line,which previously was utilized by the Minnesota
Zephyr and offered short trip dining rides along the St.Croix River.
There was a rail-water intermodal facility at the Allen S. King Plant. Intermodal facilities
function as a transfer point between road to ports or rail terminals. This facility was used
for coal deliveries to the power plant but was removed as part of the St Croix River
Crossing project. There are no other rail,barge and truck or intermodal freight terminals
in the City.
There are no light rail corridors identified in the 2040 Transportation Policy Plan that would
access Oak Park Heights and the immediate area.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
City of Oak Park Heights Page 87
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AIRPORTS/AIR SPACE
Oak Park Heights lies proximate to a number of airport facilities. Minneapolis/St. Paul
International Airport serves as the region's major airport by providing residents with
access to national and international markets. Three smaller airports and runways are
located throughout the region. The St.Paul Downtown Airport(Holman Field)is a major
corporate flight facility in the east metro area. The Lake Elmo Airport is owned and
operated by the Metropolitan Airports Commission(MAC),and the Forest Lake Airport is
a municipal airport. These three facilities relieve the major airport by accommodating
corporate and small aircraft as well as the recreational air transportation needs of area
residents. The City is not within the airport influence area of any of these airports.
The City of Oak Park Heights has taken the necessary steps to protect navigable air
space from potential electric interference and obstacles to air navigation. The Zoning
Ordinance limits heights of structures within the City to less than 45 feet.
TRANSIT SERVICE
Oak Park Heights is served by Metro Transit. As shown on the following map, Metro
Transit provides an express route(294)that serves Downtown St.Paul,Maplewood,3M,
Oakdale, Imation, Lake Elmo, Stillwater, and Oak Park Heights. The bus runs at rush
hours during the weekdays from 5:30 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM with a
frequency of less than 30 minutes between trips. The route has stops in Oak Park Heights
on Osgood Avenue and County Road 15. There is one park and ride location in the area
at the St. Croix Valley Recreation Center which is located in Stillwater on Market Drive,
between Orleans Street and Curve Crest Boulevard.
Washington County Transit Link Service is a dial up service which is available within Oak
Park Heights. The service is provided by the Metropolitan Council and is available
Monday through Friday between 6:00 AM and 7:00 PM. The City is also served by Metro
Mobility/ADA service which provides rides for those persons needing additional
assistance. Riders must be certified in advance to qualify for ADA service. The service
is available from 5:15 AM to 6:45 PM Monday through Friday and 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Saturday and Sunday.
Oak Park Heights is included in Transit Market Areas Ill and V. Transit Market Area is
characterized by moderate density and is primarily served by commuter express bus
service. Transit Market Area V has very low population and employment densities.
General public dial-a-ride service is appropriate here, but the area is not well suited to
fixed route transit service.
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INTRODUCTION
Transportation systems are comprised of various modes which respond to the access
needs of the community. All of the transportation modes must be considered in the
planning process to ensure a balanced operation as well as a system that responds to all
of its users. Factors affecting transportation are the placement of land uses and activities
which generate demand on the system. The following goals and policies are provided for
transportation planning and development.
GENERAL GOALS AND POLICIES
Goal 1: Approach transportation in a comprehensive manner,giving attention to all
modes while providing safe and convenient movement of all persons and
vehicles.
Policies:
A. Consider all modes of transportation and related facilities as a system to be
coordinated and related on a comprehensive basis.
B. Plan transportation facilities to function in a manner compatible with adjacent land
use.
C. Consider the mobility needs of all persons in the planning and development of the
transportation system.
Goal 2: Coordinate transportation planning and implementation with state, county,
and other local jurisdictions.
Policies:
A. Work with Washington County and the Minnesota Department of Transportation
(Mn/DOT)and the Metropolitan Council to discuss the ways and means by which
their long-term transportation planning goals can be met to satisfy both regional
and local needs.
B. Work with Mn/DOT on issues related to Highway 36 and Highway 95 and
Washington County related to the county roadway system on continuing roadway
improvements and maintenance; intersections and frontage roads; bicycle and
pedestrian access;lighting;signage;landscaping;and other issues concerning the
City.
C. Monitor the projected increase in traffic volumes on the Highway 36 corridor and
work with Mn/Dot on traffic flow and intersection improvements.
D. Plan for a highway and local road system that compliments and facilitates local
movement provided by local streets,as well as bicycle and pedestrian facilities.
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Goal 3: Develop a system of priorities for improving the various elements of the
transportation network emphasizing the highest possible standards of safety
and efficiency.
Policies:
A. Continue to update the Capital Improvement Plan for transportation facilities.
B. Maintain a functional classification system for the street system in Oak Park
Heights using the classification system developed by Mn/DOT as found in the table
below.
C. Eliminate and prevent any on-street parking which conflicts with moving traffic or
creates hazards.
D. Relate street improvements to area land development in order to minimize
interrupted or inadequate access.
E. Require design and control of all intersections to promote proper visibility and
safety for drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists.
F. Develop a uniform system and policy regarding public signage which eliminates
unnecessary signs and replaces outdated, inappropriate and confusing public
signs.
G. Correct traffic safety hazards within the community as these are identified.
H. Reserve required rights-of-way as part of the City's platting process.
I. Where feasible and practical, consider establishing pedestrian and bicycle trails in
conjunction with development subdivision and street and highway improvements.
J. Continue the street reconstruction programs to update and improve the City's utility
and transportation systems.
FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION OF STREETS
Class Function Provide Access To
Principal Arterial Service to major centers of activity, provides Principal arterials
continuity to rural arterial system Minor arterials
Minor Arterial Service of an intra-community nature, urban Principal arterials
concentrations to rural collector roads Collector streets
Land
Collector Street Local collection and distribution between collector Land
streets and arterials, land access to minor generators Minor arterials
Local streets
Local Streets Service to abutting land Land
Higher order systems
Source: Minnesota Department of Transportation
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TRANSIT
Goal 1 : Provide enhanced mass transit options for the residents of Oak Park
Heights and the St. Croix Valley area.
Policies:
A. Work with the Metropolitan Council and State representatives on development of
enhanced transit systems for Oak Park Heights and the St. Croix Valley area.
B. Encourage options for increased ride share programs and expand park and ride
facilities in Oak Park Heights.
C. Continue participation in ongoing feasibility studies for mass transit and rail options
for Highway 36 and 95.
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INTRODUCTION
Based upon the information established by the Physical Profile and the foundation
provided by the Goals and Policies, this section provides the framework for a
Transportation Plan. A functional classification system is established for roadways,
guidelines for access management outline are provided, and the capital improvement
program is highlighted. The other transportation routes are also discussed, but trails and
sidewalks are addressed in a separate heading with parks as found in a following chapter
of the plan.
FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM / TRANSPORTATION PLAN
The functional classification system for the City's streets and highways is illustrated by
the criteria developed by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT). The
Transportation Plan Map, found on the following page, illustrates the functional classes
for those roadways within Oak Park Heights. The functional classification system is
based on anticipated usage for five to ten years in the future. This classification of
roadways for Oak Park Heights will be used to determine access points on major
roadways and the design relationship of local roads to other township, community, and
state highways. There are no changes planned in the number of lanes for Principal
Arterials and A-Minor Arterials that would impact the Transportation Plan for Oak Park
Heights.
The Transportation Plan incorporates the information from the Existing Functional
Classification Map and identifies roadway improvements and extensions discussed as
part of the planning process. The transit facilities and plans are also featured on the map.
The functional classification system for roadways, as identified within the Physical Profile
section for Oak Park Heights, is further defined through the access management systems
table on a following page.
ACCESS MANAGEMENT
In an effort to maintain effective traffic flow and safety, while accommodating the access
needs of land development, access management techniques are utilized. For Oak Park
Heights, access to adjacent roadways is overseen by three primary jurisdictions: Mn/DOT
along the State highways, Washington County along County roads, and Oak Park Heights
along local streets.
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The table as follows provides guidelines for access control based upon Washington
County guidelines. The land use categories apply to existing and future development in
Oak Park Heights. The term rural should be applied to those roadway segments not
planned for immediate urbanization, including agricultural or sparsely developed areas.
Urban refers to those areas that are commonly urbanized or planned for development in
the short term, including most suburban-type development. The urban use should be
applied to the area of the City that is fully developed.
The access guidelines should be used for all plat and site plan reviews. In that these
guidelines are used as part of a plan and not an ordinance, reasonable discretion could
be applied to each site. Washington County and Mn/DOT will give approvals for access
to all the roadways under their respective jurisdictions.
WASHINGTON COUNTY
ACCESS SPACING GUIDELINES
Full-Movement Partial Private Signal or
Functional Classification Intersection Movement Drivewa s Roundabout
Intersection y Spacing
Principal Arterial 1/2 mile 1/4 mile Variable 1/2 mile
Minor Arterial 1/4 mile 1/4mile Variable 1/4 mile
Collector 1/8 mile N/A Variable 1/8 mile
Source:Washington County
TRAFFIC ANALYSIS ZONES
The Transportation Plan must include the allocation of the Metropolitan Council's
population, household and employment forecasts separated into Traffic Analysis Zones
(TAZ). The Metropolitan Council has provided the City a TAZ map with the zones
indicated. The boundaries of these zones extend beyond the City limits and into adjacent
jurisdictions. A map of the zones is found on the following page.
The allocation of population,household and employment numbers and forecasts for the
years 2010,2020,2030,and 2040 is found on a following page.
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ALLOCATION OF FORECASTS TO TRAFFIC ANALYSIS ZONES (TAZ)
2010 2020 2030 2040
TAZ Pop HH Emp Pop HH Emp Pop HH Emp Pop HH Emp
2372 345 150 0 350 150 0 375 160 0 400 175 0
2373 400 175 450 450 200 475 475 215 525 500 225 600
2374 200 80 200 200 80 225 225 90 250 250 100 250
2377 1 ,500 600 1 ,558 1 ,730 825 1 ,675 1 ,850 _ 955 1 ,750 2,000 1 ,000 1 ,800
2379 1 ,000 450 1 ,100 1 ,050 475 1 ,125 1 ,200 520 1 ,325 1 ,300 580 1 ,500
2380 700 326 300 800 330 300 875 340 350 950 380 400
2382 300 130 500 300 140 500 300 140 500 300 140 500
2355 0 0 250 0 0 300 0 0 400 0 0 450
Total 4,445 1,911 4,358 4,880 2,200 4,600 5,300 2,420 5,100 5,700 2,600 5,500
Source: Metropolitan Council
Pop = Population Forecasts HH = Households Forecasts Emp = Employment Forecasts
TRAFFIC VOLUMES/PROJECTIONS
As indicated in the Physical Profile section, the traffic volumes on Highway 36 are
projected to almost double by 2030. It is anticipated that the St. Croix River Crossing and
Highway 36 will have a dramatic impact on the residents of Oak Park Heights in that the
community is separated by this roadway. While the bridge has been open for a few
months, it has been observed, but not verified, that the traffic at Norell Avenue, Oakgreen
Avenue and Osgood Avenue has increased. Currently, the only projection for the
increase in traffic was found in the Environmental Impact Statement for the bridge project.
The City will continue to work with Mn/DOT and with Washington County on issues related
to frontage roads and critical Highway 36 intersections within the City. The at-grade
crossings at Norell Avenue, and the south frontage road of Osgood Avenue will need to
be monitored and improved to ensure adequate traffic flow levels and to assure the safety
of drivers and pedestrians at these locations.
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SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS / EXTENSIONS
The Land Use Plan indicates possible annexation of the area south of Highway 36 at
Manning Avenue. If the annexation occurs, the City would consider the extension of 58th
Street to Manning to complete this east/west corridor. The extension would also include
bicycle and pedestrian trails to Manning. Acquisition of right-of-way as part of
development within the existing City limits at will be necessary for future completion of
this corridor.
STREET RECONSTRUCTION/MAINTENANCE PROGRAM
One of the transportation policies indicates a continuation of the street reconstruction and
mill and overlay programs to maintain the local utility and street network. The City Council
and City staff will need to continue to monitor the condition of the City streets. The City
has created a timeline to complete the necessary sections of the network and has a
program to set aside funds to implement this expensive rehabilitation program.
RAIL FACILITIES
The City of Oak Park Heights will work with representatives of Union Pacific on any rail
transportation issues that arise. It is expected that the Allen S. King Plant will continue to
receive all the coal shipments via this rail line.
The 2040 Transportation Plan does not indicate any light rail corridors that would access
Oak Park Heights or neighboring communities in the St. Croix Valley.
AIRPORTS
There is no impact to Oak Park Heights resulting from the Lake Elmo Airport and the City
is not within the airport influence area. The City regulates building and structure height
as it relates to navigable air space.
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BUS /TRANSIT SERVICE
One of the issues often raised by officials and residents is the lack of mass transit options
for people in Oak Park Heights and the St. Croix Valley. The commuter service is only
available on weekends but Metro Mobility/ADA provides weekend service. The 2040
Transportation Policy Plan does not call for any significant changes to the level of service
to Oak Park Heights although Highway 36 remains as an express bus corridor.
The City will continue to work with Metro Transit officials on continuing and expanding the
fixed route transit service for Oak Park Heights to both St. Paul and Minneapolis.
Additionally, the City continues to support the local transit service provided by Washington
County Transit Link Service and Metro Mobility/ADA. This service is especially important
for elderly residents and those that are less independently mobile. Expansion of this
service may be necessary as the population of the St. Croix Valley grows older and less
mobile. The Transportation Plan on a previous page includes the transit plans included
in the 2040 Transportation Policy Plan.
PEDESTRIAN / BICYCLE FACILITIES
The pedestrian and bicycle plan for the City is found in a separate section of this
Comprehensive Plan document. In the last 25 years, the City has invested significantly
in the pedestrian and bicycle network throughout the community. It is possible to travel
west to east and north and south through the entire City on trails with limited need to
travel on streets. The City sees this investment as important to recreation as well as the
transportation needs of the community.
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INTRODUCTION
A final, continuing and ongoing phase of the current comprehensive planning process is
the programming of implementation measures intended to bring about improvements to
the City as defined by the Comprehensive Plan.
Implementation consists of both planning and budgeting. Programs and projects are
initially identified and defined. This is followed by prioritizing the various efforts on a
yearly basis and then in the year the project will be implemented, determining work
responsibility, costs and possible funding sources of projects.
The Implementation chapter lists possible improvement projects identified during Oak
Park Height's comprehensive planning program. It is again emphasized that
implementation of the plan is an ongoing, annual effort which Oak Park Heights should
incorporate as part of its management and budgeting process. This Implementation
Plan, once established, should be reviewed and updated by the City each year at the
beginning of its yearly financial planning. Through such constant attention, the City will
be able to progressively address and resolve problems and bring about desired
community improvements to the extent that fiscal resources are available.
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Xcel Energy Fly Ash Disposal Site/Oak Park Crossing Park
The Xcel Energy fly ash disposal site, which is south of Highway 36 and east of Osgood
Avenue, was used to dispense of an ash by-product created at the Allen S. King power
generating facility located adjacent to the St. Croix River. The site has been capped
and is now Oak Park Crossing Park. The fly ash monitoring will continue under the
management of Xcel Energy, but the park is under the management of the City.
Wetlands / Perro Creek
Wetlands in the City serve important features as ponding areas for ground water
recharge, nutrient assimilation, wildlife habitat and as open space. Perro Creek is a
significant natural feature within Valley View Park that serves important stormwater and
aesthetic functions. The City will continue to protect wetland areas and enforce the
existing setbacks and buffer regulations. In addition, the City will incorporate these
natural areas into trail planning to take advantage of views and access to these natural
areas.
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Ground Water
A ground water pollution area south of Oak Park Heights will be an ongoing issue for
the City. The Baytown Township ground water contamination site is the result of the
disposal or spillage of trichloroethylene in the area south of Highway 5 and west of
Manning Avenue, and the use or spillage of carbon tetrachloride at a nearby grain
storage facility. The City will need to continue to monitor the spread of the
contamination and consider the pollution impact with any new well or well
reconditioning.
LAND USE
Annexation Areas
The Comprehensive Plan indicates one area, west of the City in Stillwater Township,
that potentially could become a part of the City in the next 10 years. The City will not
aggressively pursue areas of annexation from the Township or detachment/annexation
from one of the adjoining cities. The City will continue an ongoing dialogue with the
property owners and with the affected governing jurisdictions. The use of annexation or
orderly annexation agreements would be utilized to make the transition to the City of
Oak Park Heights.
Residential
Single Family. The City will not actively pursue additional land outside of the current
City limits for single family development. There are currently no significant tracks of
land available in the City for low density subdivision but there will be ongoing, minor
single-family infill projects. Preservation and ongoing investment and maintenance
within the existing neighborhoods will be the focus for the City in coming years.
Street/utility reconstruction projects will also be a focus in neighborhoods as these
maintenance projects are required.
Medium/High Density Residential. There are no current mid and high-density
residential projects under construction within the City, but development in these land
use categories are anticipated between 2020 and 2025. As with single family, there are
no tracks of land that could accommodate significant mid density projects.
Redevelopment along the Highway 36 corridor could include mixed use developments
that incorporate mid and high-density residential units.
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There are also two areas identified for additional high-density development, that area
north of 58th Street included as part of Boutwells Landing, and property along Stage
Coach Trail.
Housing
The City will work with the Washington County CDA(CDA)to promote the development
of affordable housing units in the community, the maintenance and rehabilitation of
existing homes,and with homeowner counseling and education programs. Some of the
tools that can be used are as follows:
Development Financing Tools
- Tax Increment Financing (TIF): The City has used TIF in the past to assist in the
development of the Oak Park Senior Living project that has created 92 affordable senior
units since 2012 and an additional 72 that will be completed in 2019. This tool could be
utilized in providing additional affordable units in a high-density development project on
58th Street between Norell Avenue and Nova Scotia Avenue.
-GROW Fund: The GROW Fund is a levy-supported loan gap financing tool for rental
and homeownership housing affordable to households at 60%AMI or below.The funds
are intended to leverage public and private sector funds for the development of new
affordable housing units or the preservation of existing ones through redevelopment.
The City would work with the CDC in utilizing this financing tool, especially for high
density development.
- Low Income Housing Tax Credits: The CDA is a sub-allocator of housing tax credits
which are the primary way to raise private equity for affordable housing projects. The
CDA awards 9%credits on a competitive annual basis while 4%credits are paired with
tax exempt bonds and allocated on a pipeline basis with the bond issuance. The
housing must be affordable to households with incomes at 60%AMI or below. The City
would work with the CDC in utilizing this financing tool, especially for high density
development.
-Tax Exempt Bonds: The CDA is authorized to issue tax-exempt and taxable revenue
bonds for multi-family and facilities projects.Tax exempt bonds offer lower debt service
to borrowers than taxable ones. Eligible projects include affordable rental housing,
assisted living and long-term care facilities, public infrastructure projects, municipal
projects and 501(c)3 nonprofit real estate and equipment.
- Community Development Block Grant (CDBG): CDBG funds can be used to meet a
variety of community development needs including investments in public infrastructure,
single family or multi-family housing rehabilitation, homelessness assistance, business
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loans, or capital improvements for publicly owned buildings. The activities must benefit
households with incomes at 80% AMI or below. Funding is granted on an annual basis
through a competitive process. The CDA administers the CDBG program on behalf of
Washington County as pass-through funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development.
- HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME): Often HOME funds are used for
the construction of new affordable housing or rehabilitation and preservation of existing
affordable housing. They may also be used for activities related to homebuyer
assistance or tenant-based rental assistance. The activities must benefit households
with incomes at 80% AMI or below. Funding is granted on an annual basis through a
competitive process. The CDA administers the HOME program on behalf of Washington
County as pass-through funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development.
Technical Assistance
- Community development technical assistance is available from CDA staff. The CDA
can provide guidance with acquisition, relocation, site assembly, financing, grant writing,
brownfield remediation, and other services to with local development projects.
Home Improvement Assistance
-Deferred no interest loans up to $18,000 are available to households with incomes at
or below 80% AMI. Loans can finance projects that make homes safer and more livable
including energy efficiency, accessibility, exterior painting, siding, windows, electrical,
plumbing, or lead stabilization projects. The City will work with the CDC in promoting
this tool in the City, especially for those older areas of the community that are east of
Osgood Avenue.
Affordable Mortgage Products
-Affordable mortgages are available to Washington County residents through
participating lenders in the Start Up Loan program. First time homebuyers must meet
median income limits and interest rates are kept low by funding mortgages through a
bonding allocation. CDA staff can help connect residents to this program through its
Homebuyer Services program. The City can assist the CDC in notifying residents of the
availability of this program.
Homebuyer Education/Counselinq
The CDA offers the Home Stretch educational workshops for prospective homeowners.
It also provides one on one professional homebuyer counseling by appointment. The
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CDA is a HUD-approved housing counseling agency and provides services at no cost to
participants. Services address a variety of homebuying topics from budgeting and credit
scores to home maintenance and mortgages to create savvy, smart homeowners in the
process. The City can assist the CDC in notifying residents of the availability of this
program.
Homeowner Counseling
The CDA provides post-purchase counseling to homeowners looking at options to
refinance their mortgage as well as homeowners struggling with their mortgage
payments. The award-winning CDA counseling team has established a track record of
successful outcomes in nearly 80% of resolved foreclosure prevention counseling
cases. The CDA is a HUD-approved housing counseling agency that works with
homeowners to discuss options and create a plan over the phone or through in person
sessions. The City can assist the CDC in notifying residents of the availability of this
program
Commercial
Highway commercial development and redevelopment will continue along Highways 36
and County Road 15. Infill development is expected to claim the remaining developable
areas in the next five to ten years. Under-utilized properties will become increasingly
attractive for redevelopment as the demand for prime frontage on these corridors
continues. The City will need to work with the development community in facilitating
upgrades and redevelopment opportunities. Involvement with Mn/DOT and Washington
County is also necessary to address access issues, frontage road maintenance, and
ongoing funding and improvement issues.
Business Warehousing / Industrial
The City has very limited area available for business/warehousing land use and no land
for additional industrial. The business warehouse area contained within the Kern
Center off County Road 15 and 58th Street, will be completely developed in the next five
to ten years. The City will support continued investment in the existing business and
warehousing areas through expansion, upgrades, and improved infrastructure to insure
the economic and job base of the City.
A.S. King Plant
The Xcel Energy - Allen S. King Plant is a 511 mega-watt coal-fired facility that was
constructed in 1968 along the St. Croix River on approximately 60 acres. The King Plant
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IMPLEMENTATION
underwent a major retrofit in 2004 to reduce emissions. However, like many power
plant facilities, the repair and maintenance become expensive for Xcel Energy
compared to alternative investment in new technology and facilities to generate the
same power at a lesser cost.
Therefore, the City expects that the King Plant will close if the shift away from coal as
an energy source continues. The timing of this closure may depend on a number of
factors but is reasonable to predict that in the next twenty years the King Plant will be
decommissioned. Beyond the environmental discussions or base-load capacity
elements, it is important to understand that when this power plant was originally
constructed in Oak Park Heights, there was a commitment to the local community from
Xcel Energy that there would be a significant tax benefit to its residents in exchange for
having this facility in the community. While there have been annual fluctuations, this tax
benefit remains. Currently, the City receives 33 percent of its annual property tax
revenue from the King Plant or approximately 1.7 million dollars.
If the King Plant closes and no longer remains a viable source of tax revenue, the City
will have a significant gap in its ability to fund municipal services. Accordingly, the City,
like many other communities that host power plants (being coal, nuclear or natural gas)
must begin to contemplate about how it would respond when such closure happens.
More specifically, what would happen to the Allen S. King Plant site? How or could the
budget gap be addressed without a passage of such costs to others? Will the site have
ongoing environmental issues?
The City plans to engage with Xcel Energy, community members, and State and local
government partners to begin to explore the issues and opportunities that a potential
closure of the King Plant will present.
Park Land / Open Space
As part of this Comprehensive Plan process, the Parks and Trails Plan has been
updated. The plan indicates that there are no new areas planned for park development
in the City. Identified in the plan are a number of park and trail improvements, most
related to maintenance, that will be addressed in the next ten years.
Public and Institutional
There are no significant expansions for any of the public or institutional facilities that
would necessitate change in land uses.
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HISTORIC PRESERVATION
The Land Use Plan has identified two sites deemed historic. Due to the limited number
of historic structures and sites, the City does not anticipate the need for a preservation
ordinance or establishment of a commission to oversee historic resources. The City will
work to maintain these properties, within financial and practical reason, in that they
contribute to the cultural resources of the community.
SOLAR ACCESS PROTECTION
Solar access protection is provided for the uniform application of lot and building
performance standards that are in place within the Oak Park Heights Zoning Ordinance.
The City will continue to maintain these standards and promote the establishment of
energy saving and capture methods that are in conformance with the building design
and lot requirements. There are three solar related cost-free programs that the City will
consider enrolling in. They are designed to provide planning, technical, and policy
assistance:
U.S. Department of Energy's SoiSmart Program: Solar Permitting, Zoning and
Development
Minnesota GreenStep Cities Program: Sustainability Best Practices
Xcel Energy's Partners in Energy Program: Energy Action Plan Development.
TRANSPORTATION
Functional Classification System / Access Management
The Transportation Plan indicates a functional classification system map as well as
regulations for access management. On an ongoing basis, the City will follow the plan
in terms of the access management recommendations as it relates to new and
redevelopment projects.
Highway 36
The City recognizes the increased 2030 traffic volumes projected on Highway 36 which
is expected to reach 55,000 ADT in that area between Oakgreen and Osgood Avenues.
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With the increased traffic, the City will continue to work with Mn/DOT and Washington
County on issues related to frontage roads and critical Highway 36 intersections within
the City. The at-grade crossings at Norell Avenue and Osgood Avenue will need to be
monitored and improved to ensure adequate traffic flow levels and to assure the safety
of drivers and pedestrians at these locations.
Street Reconstruction Program
One of the transportation policies indicates a continuation of the street reconstruction
programs to maintain the local utility and street network. The City Council and City staff
will need to continue to maintain the condition of the City streets and determine a
timeline to complete the necessary sections of the network. As part of the budgeting
process, the City Council will also need to continue to set aside funds to eventually
complete this expensive rehabilitation program.
Rail Facilities
The City of Oak Park Heights will work with representatives of Union Pacific on any rail
transportation issues that arise. It is expected that the Allen S. King Plant will continue
to receive all of the coal shipments via this rail line. The 2040 Transportation Plan does
not indicate any light rail corridors that would access Oak Park Heights or neighboring
communities in the St.Croix Valley.
Bus/Transit Service
The City will continue to work with Metro Transit officials on continuing and expanding
bus service for Oak Park Heights. Additionally, the City continues to support the local
transit service provided by the Washington County Transit Link Service and Metro
Mobility/ADA. This service is especially important for elderly residents and those that
are less independently mobile. Expansion of this service may be necessary as the
population of the St.Croix Valley grows older and less mobile.
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
Police and Fire
The City's police and fire services adequately serve the emergency protection needs of
the community at this time. The contract with the Bayport Fire Department has served
the community well and will be continued into the future. The City will need to continue
to monitor its needs for fire and ambulance service, especially as the elderly population
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of the community grows. The new Bayport Fire Department facility, completed in 2016,
will also serve the member communities well for years to come.
Additional study will be necessary to determine if the Bayport Fire Department could
serve the development of the potential annexation area to the west of the City. If an
annexation proposal is presented to the City, a study would be necessary.
Water, Sanitary Sewer and Storm Sewer Services
The City Engineer, Stantec, has developed Water, Sanitary Sewer and Storm Sewer
Plans as part of this Comprehensive Plan Update. These plans are attached in the
Appendix of this document.
City Hall/Public Works
With the completion of the City Hall building in 2009 and the remodel and expansion of
the public works building, the City/Police facilities and the maintenance garage will
serve the community well for years to come. There are no other major facility
replacement or improvements planned now other than upkeep and maintenance of
existing.
ADMINISTRATION
Staffing
The City will need to monitor staffing levels as the City grows and redevelopment
occurs. It is not anticipated that staffing/positions will need to be changed from the
current levels.
Community Identity
The City will need to continue efforts in promoting recognition and identification.
Construction of welcome signs at the primary entrances to the community and use of
newspapers, cable TV, the City website and the City newsletter are all seen as
important vehicles in City promotion. Continued promotion of the City's extensive trail
system is also seen as a significant way of introducing people to Oak Park Heights.
Public Relations
Oak Park Heights has an ongoing policy of providing effective public education
regarding City activities. The City will continue to work on ways to promote the
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IMPLEMENTATION
community, its residential neighborhoods, and its business and commercial sites using
effective communication tools. To continue and improve the lines of communication
between City government and its citizens, Oak Park Heights should continue to use the
City website, newsletters, mailings, cable access, newspapers, and other forms of
public media.
Zoning / Subdivision Regulations Updates / Design Guidelines
As a follow up to Comprehensive Plan approval, the City will review and update its
zoning and subdivision regulations as necessary within nine months of adopting the
Comprehensive Plan 2040. The Comprehensive Plan text does not suggest any
significant changes to the Zoning Ordinance district allowances and performance
standards. The Zoning Ordinance has been amended but has not been completely
updated since 1998. The City may consider a total update to improve format and
modernize standards and provide a more user-friendly document.
Capital Improvement Planning
The City of Oak Park Heights has an effective system of capital improvements planning
that is scheduled or updated on a yearly basis. The capital improvement planning can
be used as a planning tool that will be especially important as the City continues to
grow, and redevelopment projects occur. A copy of the Capital Improvement Plan is
found as Appendix A.
Comprehensive Plan 2018
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