Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutweekly notes jan 11th 2019 r ti. CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS—WEEKLY NOTES for: January 11th,2019 TO: City Council Members& Staff FROM: Eric Johnson,City Administrator Zoning and Development Items: 1. No new applications have been received. Staff did meet with resident Randall Patrin who resides on Penrose Ave.to discuss a possible home expansion and to review his home occupation license. The Home Occupation license is for his tree trimming/removal business. 2. It is possible some planning funds may be available from the Washington County Community Development Authority to explore some additional planning and scoping options for the King Plant site. Any work, I would believe would be in addition to the Economic Impact Study the Just Transition Fund is completing.This possibility however would be site specific to the King Plant and how the lands could be envisioned in the future.The enclosed letter makes an inquiry of any WCCDA funds could be utilized; a full application and process would be needed,but we want to first see if it is at all possible. 3. Xcel did seek a written permission to place a gas line across City lands in the ROW area lying west of Norell Ave—this was approved in the form of a Revocable License. Recall,this line is being impacted due to the Panera construction and Xcel has few other opportunities.Xcel will be required to relocate this at their sole expense should the need arise by the City.It is however anticipated that the area where this 4"gas line will be located will be ultimately conveyed to the Developer(Ridgecrest). 4. The City has received the Wal-Mart Easements and they appear to be in order,we are now attempting to have these recorded. Other Items • Washington County will be holding an OPEN HOUSE regarding the Manning/STH 36 Interchange Project on 1/16 4 to 6 pm.See the enclosed information. We are still awaiting feedback from the City's letter sent in Nov 2018 related to funding and letters of support. • BCWD did supply a DRAFT summary of their Community Meeting held on December 12.This was attended by Council Members Johnson and Runk as well as myself.Comments on this summary is due next week Friday 1/18. Mayor McComber provided: 1. MAOSC—January Th Legislative Preview 2. Information on Conversations in the Valley for 1/16/19. 3. NLC-Information on Mayor's appointment to the 2019 Small Cities Council 4. Chamber of Commerce Event-Let's Get Social(media)—Discussion Lunch for 1/22/19 5. NLC Weekly for 1/5/19 6. NOTE: - On Tuesday, 1/8/19,the Mayors from Bayport, Lake Elmo, Oak Park Heights and Stillwater and our respective City Administrators gathered to have a discussion about how we can begin to better address our shared challenges, especially staffing, capital costs, and long-term financial sustainability. As part of our discussion we discussed exploring methods and opportunities to find cost savings and to ensure continued quality service delivery for our Fire and Emergency Services as well as other areas.While nothing concrete is foreseeable in the short-term in terms of any policy alterations,we have realized that we all face these similar and common cost challenges and responsibilities. Hopefully the collaborative discussion on these matters can continue over the next several months and into the future. If other meetings are planned and/or held I will continue to keep you informed. Please let me know if you have any questions-651.253.7837 Call Anytime. City of Oak Park Heights 14168 Oak Park Blvd. N•Oak Park Heights,MN 55082•Phone(651)439-4439•Fax(651)439-0574 1110119 TO: Chris Eng, Director of Economic Development Washington County Community Development Agency Via email only: RE: Allan S. King Plant—Re-Development. Dear Chris, Per our short discussion...The purpose of this letter is to explore if a proposal would have some merit and to ultimately pursue if you felt as such with accessing any site preparation planning funds. Here is the upshot: As we know the closing of the Allen S. King Plant is in the offing. This is estimated(quite likely)occur within the next decade,but some estimates have placed this as soon as 2026.While our City has begun to monitor these events and begun engagements in a number of fronts to ensure a soft-landing from a tax base standpoint. It is 160 acres+/-of riverfront opportunity. One position we have yet to spend meaningful time on would be the specific scoping or visioning for what this site might actually be used for...if the King Plant and related facilities is retired.To at least to begin to enable that visioning, we speculate that the preparation of an Early Re-Development Plan & Scope (ERPS) document would be of deep value and should generally consist of: • Synopsis of the Environmental clean-up—SCOPE, TIMELINES and COSTS—Highlighting what we could expect;what have others experienced—what is the stigma? • Identification of how Wild and Scenic River laws would be applicable to the site—post closure from a land- use perspective. • Understanding of the transportation and railroad networks that serve the site. • Utilities(being water and sewer)options. • Some early public engagement,would be necessary—so some meetings. • Begin to identify what does Xcel desire or their outcomes from a site perspective? • Creation of a few"high-level"concepts plans.(is it all restored to natural state;mixed use,park lands,industrial areas,office park,trails,etc.) Practically speaking,a deep investigation of any of these would be expensive and time consuming and frankly we are not there yet.Instead,at this point what we are suggesting is the preparation of such an ERPS and which could provide some early narratives on these and highlight key issues. My knee-jerk estimated cost of such as study would be $100,000 perhaps more or less and would take 12-18 months. While Xcel Energy is vital to that conversation,we cannot and should not solely rely on Xcel Energy to be the driver of such a plan as there will be many parties with deep interests in how this site is utilized into the next century.We would 2 of 29 believe that the most important people to hear from would those who-quite literally-live and reside in its shadow and how can such a site be best re-utilized that benefits the community from a tax base,employment and or natural beauty perspective(tourism). While we have no commitments,nor have I made any other outreach to this point,including to my own City Council, if there were some partnerships that could fund such a study,we might all find it quite valuable.So,in a nutshell,would you think this is something the WCCDA might be interested in engaging with and/or contributing to some funding? There are some other Economic Impact studies underway and we don't want to duplicate anything, but these appear to be more-or-less a review of the impacts of the closure of power plants in general and related transition aid funding from the State... versus prospective specific site planning in our City. Any input or thoughts is welcome! Thanks Eric T MWA Y i i y g .Y . n Y. w . r �.� r' ` a' �.,�� z Lye;" ••`�����1,�;�yK r r •"- 3 of 29 January 4,2019 Ira Email Don Pilla Gas Designer Xcel Energy 825 Rice Street St.Paul,MN 55117 Email:Donald.j pillaameelenergy.com Re: Ridgecrest Oak Park Heights 13523 60t1 Street North,Oak Park Heights,Minnesota Authorization to Enter Site Dear Mr.Pilla: We write on behalf of the current owners of the real property parcels that make up the above referenced site. Please accept this letter as permission for Xcel Energy:(i)to enter the site to survey,stake and complete the gas main relocation request; and(ii)to begin Xcel Energy construction efforts the week of January 14,2019. Please further accept this letter as Ridgecrest Lakeville I,LLC's agreement to provide a post-construction easement to Xcel Energy once the final land exchange is completed,in a mutually-agreeable form,with the understanding that Xcel Energy will provide the easement survey and valuation services at Xcel Energy's expense. As it relates to use of City lands:The City does permit r� the temporary placement of a single proposed 4"gas main facilities upon City lands, but outside of the roadway surface and curb-line and as shown in the attached figure. Such City permission is issued to Xcel Energy as a Revocable License and not a F conveyance of marketable title and/or easement The City makes no warranties or representation regarding the condition of the property. Xcel Energy may not displace other uses currently upon the lands without their permission and Xcel Energy shall assume any and all liabilities for its own uses.At its sole expense, Xcel Energy shall promptly restore to an equivalentp: or better condition any disturbed City facilities and/or GO&Ie Earth property. Sincerely, Ridgecrest Lakeville I,LLC City of Oak P k i is Trent Mayberry ric4o o Its: Its: Ci dministrator 4 of 29 ■77 ƒ m ƒ : ( _ \ � — � ƒ| . 10 r.L \ E© � �e ■ ; ca �[2E 2"® to . m , �$ r �k± rw : � m ► �° � \} 5of29 v ! 2 � d � k « _ ^ D � » & � § , c mm N / � \ ƒ � gCL 2 m ' . .0 c ƒ $ 9. ¥ m /O I / R / o i I k E \ k § y / - ■ R % ■ � f c g § E r g O 0 f 2 & m :3 a- g ■ � � o � 0 m & ® # m AE K 0 2 \ � I�i tu = k 3 Ear = � ak ƒ E \ g K k � &fD � £ � � tj M , f2gCL � m CL 6 or 29 Stakeholder Input Summary December 12, 2018 Workshop Prepared by FRESHW TER 2424 Territorial Road Suite B I Saint Paul, MN 55114 1 freshwater.org I 7 of 29 INTRODUCTION, Within the Brown's Creek watershed,cities,developers,and watershed staff are all working in their respective roles to improve the community. Recent watershed district rules changes have made working together more challenging. Recognizing the value of partnerships, Brown's Creek Watershed District (BCWD) invited Freshwater to host a workshop to discuss the challenges, understand impacts,and uncover options for moving forward. The workshop was held on Wednesday,December 12,2018 in Stillwater. It was attended by 41 individuals representing cities,development companies,counties,and the watershed district. Freshwater opened the workshop with brief remarks regarding variations in runoff management strategies across the metropolitan area and that,when tensions pop up,they have a history of getting ironed out. Karen Kill of BCWD was then asked to share the philosophy behind their water management strategy and the rule change that took place.With that grounding information, Freshwater then led the participants through an interactive exercise consisting of two questions discussed in small groups: 1. What challenges do you encounter in responding to water management requirements? 2. What strategies can be used to overcome these challenges and enhance resource protection? By using open-ended questions,a wide range of comments could be received.Comments included in the analysis for this report were written by participants themselves,and maintained verbatim throughout the analysis.Methodology is presented at the end of this document for reference. In reviewing the comments,two major areas of challenges and strategies emerged—comments dealing specifically with the rules and regulations,and comments focused on the interpersonal relationships surrounding implementation of those rules and regulations. In reviewing the comments and writing this report,Freshwater was careful to not apply their own lens or bias.This report,then,should be taken not as Freshwater's opinion,but rather a summation of participant comments. Contents Regarding the Requirements Page 2 Improving Interpersonal Relationships Page 4 'Summary of Recommendations Page 5 Methodology Page 6 1 8 of 29 Unsurprisingly,given that a rule change served as the main impetus for the workshop,the majority of the comments shared while discussing challenges were in reference to perceived lack of clarity or flexibility in the requirements, resulting in very real increases in costs and time needed for projects to move forward.As clarity and flexibility are two different components of the challenges with the requirements,they are discussed individually below. Rule and requirements are not well understood It is hard to do what is required when you don't fully understand what you are being asked to do,and why. In discussing lack of clarity,participants noted that a clear understanding or description of the rule and how it impacts stakeholders is missing. In part,this may stem from different jurisdictions using different requirements as well as from local requirements changing.Three outcomes of this lack of clarity that participants are experiencing are: • Uncertainty about how to meet requirements,or when you reach compliance. • Different staff and decision-makers using the same rule and coming to different conclusions. • Difficulty in communicating what is needed,especially with residential applicants that may be less familiar with technical language. Participants offered several creative options to explore that not only increase clarity but add transparency and trust as well: ➢ Share the why. "Need easy to use and By providing background and context on what is being understand-resources to walk protected and why in plain language, it could be people through the rules and easier to understand the reason for rules and rule app.process" changes. ➢ Increase the accessibility of guidance and Information. Whether it is online YouTube videos,step-by-step guides,or in-person meetings early in the design process, providing additional guidance and education could help add clarity and make sure crucial steps are not missed.Setting this guidance can also help ensure that all staff and decision-makers have a shared understanding of requirements and process,and that they're able to communicate that with applicants. ➢ Enhance communication about opportunities to provide input. While ensuring compliance with legal requirements about public notification, BCWD could integrate the above two recommendations with enhanced outreach and communication about input opportunities.Context and additional information, in addition to ensuring potentially interested parties have seen proposed projects or rule changes,could simultaneously improve understanding of what is being proposed and increase the number of responses received. 2 9 of 29 Alternatives and flexibility are desired In reviewing the comments, it is clear that stakeholders feel as though they are backed into a corner without workable options to move forward.There are three overarching sources of this feeling: • Awareness of other standards besides pre-settlement that are used elsewhere,where off- ramps,approved alternatives,and regional approaches are allowed. • The extent of extra cost incurred to be in compliance with infiltration requirements. • Times when pre-settlement infiltration requirements are running counter to MS4 permits or DWSMA requirements. Without alternatives,design constraints or future maintenance requirements can sink or undermine a project, especially when there isn't enough land available to meet the requirements.This is even more notable for redevelopment,where existing site conditions can make increased infiltration more difficult and costly.Additionally,the amount of design needed to demonstrate the need for a variance is felt to be extensive,adding to the cost of and time required for a project.Without opportunities to appeal,the appearance of inflexibility increases. To address these concerns,the following strategies were offered by particiaants: ➢ Offer alternatives or off-ramps earlier in the design and approval process. Similar to what is available with MIDS,which is accepted elsewhere and participants feel could serve as a starting point,allow for the opportunity to pursue "Development of an alternative approved alternatives when circumstances require it.Along with compliance framework if it still the guidance tools described above,clearly indicating when an provides resource protection" alternative could be considered and why can help save time and money. Provide for the opportunity to protect the resource on a regional basis. Whether it is expanding from a parcel-by-parcel approach to infiltration or allowing for banking, a regional approach can help to accommodate more challenging parcels or take advantage of economies of scale. ➢ Offset higher costs for compliance. While several of the recommendations in this report will lower costs simply by, reducing time and unexpected needs for contract extension,several participants also proposed offering cost- sharing or"cost caps"for projects where requirements surpass industry standards and the only options available are significantly more expensive. 3 10 of 29 . . . , Where comments extended beyond rules and regulations,they focused on the more human elements of government affairs—communication,collaboration,and trust. Many of the recommendations to add clarity and flexibility as described above could go a long way to address interpersonal challenges as well, but opportunity exists to move even further beyond just making changes in regulations and paperwork. In discussing challenges, many participants focused on delays resulting from the design and approval process.Having to go back multiple times to make changes was one of the more frequently noted challenges, and while that could be addressed through added clarity as discussed above, it merits repeated mention here.Additionally, participants felt that there was a relationship of command and control instead of true partnership between the Watershed District and cities and developers.Again, identifying and building towards a shared goal can help here,but additional work will be needed. As with the first section, participants identified several possible strategies to address these challenges: ➢ Meet early. As new projects are being conceived, having city staff, developers,and BCWD staff meet to discuss site "Collaboration between conditions and opportunities can provide the chance cities/watershed to work in for all to set shared goals for the site,creatively think concert on new development" through ways to meet them,and get everyone moving in the same direction from the beginning. While governmental regulations still apply,this necessarily transitions BCWD staff from an external review role to a more integrated proactive role, removes much of the opportunity for surprises,and should reduce the potential for back and forth and project timeline extensions. ➢ Meet often. "Have multiple meetings with WD Even when a common goal is in place and applicable depending upon#of submittals so regulations have been discussed in the beginning,the issues/concerns/misunderstandings can potential exists for unexpected changes or for things to be forgotten.Meeting often during a process can allow for be clarified and addressed early'" collaborative problem solving and guidance when surprises do occur,and catch issues before an application is being reviewed. ➢ Build relationships outside of formal processes. Through periodic check-ins as well as pre-concept or early meetings,there is opportunity to build relationships during times of lower stress for when strong relationships may be needed in times of higher stress.Additionally,a challenge in building positive relationships between the watershed district and residents is that many don't know that one exists or why.Find ways to increase visibility and direct communication with residents,such as through regular articles in city newsletters. 4 11 of 29 Illllllpll�llllllllllnniiiinnnnnnnngnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn � � ,tr � � —,� ix � � of III ................ Participants representing cities,development companies,counties,and the watershed district built on conversations about challenges to identify several strategies for consideration by the BCWD Board.This document does not contain a specified list of next steps or detailed recommendations,as how to implement these recommendations still needs to be explored.What is included in this document was generated by the participants,and should be considered as a guide and reference point for how work can progress,and how all participants can support that progress. 1. Share the why. 2. Increase the accessibility of guidance and information. 3. Enhance communication about opportunities to provide input. 4. Offer alternatives or off-ramps earlier in the design and approval process. S. Provide for the opportunity to protect the resource on a regional basis. 6. Offset higher costs for compliance. 7. Meet early. 8. Meet often. 9. Build relationships outside of formal processes. it bodes well for the future of relationships and water resource protection in the Brown's Creek watershed that the December 12 meeting was held in the first place,and that 41 individuals came and candidly provided input in the spirit of cooperation. Precisely how to integrate the recommendations from this report into BCWD operations is.up to the board and staff, but moving forward will take everyone who was in that room as well as those unable to be there. 5 12 of 29 -plr air, rr J(f�irslr` As mentioned above,all participant responses were recorded by the participants themselves, and then transcribed and analyzed by Freshwater.Nearly 300 comments were collected,and each was treated as an individual piece of data.To make sense of all the data and develop a single narrative, qualitative analysis was used to identify major themes in the responses for each of the management approaches. The following four steps outline the process used: Step 1:Participant response coding Coding is the process by which a comment's intended focus is identified,resulting in themes which emerge from review of all comments.For example,the comments"Priority of water issues often trumps all others"and"Pre-settlement is too restrictive"both received the code(or category)of"Inflexibility",whereas"Understanding the intent of the requirements"and"Asking about alternatives that could be acceptable and not getting direction"were coded as "Communication challenges".As each table already categorized the comments in front of them, the original category was included with the analysis to better understand the comment.The process of identifying themes continues until every comment has been reviewed. Step 2:Sorting the data Based on the themes,the data under each management strategy were sorted so that similar comments appeared next to each other. Before movine on to the next sten.the themed groupings are carefully reviewed to ensure cohesiveness within each theme and distinctiveness between themes.A complete listing of the comments sorted by themes is available in a separate document. Step 3:Summarizing the data The now-sorted information was summarized to provide a narrative for each theme. By summarizing by theme,a clear narrative of each could develop,capturing the nuance of the individual comments as well as the input of the group as a whole. Step 4:Writing the report With each theme under each question summarized,the different parts were stitched together to provide a full picture of the input received. 6 13 of 29 Question LWbatchallenSis do you entounter In nding to water management requirements? Participant comment Partici nt-IdentlRed Camory Freshwater Category Asking about alternatives that could be acceptable and not getting direction Alternative design Knowing exactly what Is required of me in satislying the rules Main challenge Is how to communicate such highly technical information to the"layperson'on why stonnwater mgmtfeatures are necessary Navigating who to talk with who Is the dedslons-maker on water projects People do not know who the watershed district Is Pinning various regulators against each other vs.collaborating Communication Relaying to residents why watershed rules are necessary and they must cont -enipensive to residents Telling our Ro -the'wh'of NIH and project. Understanding the Intent of therequirements Understanding the link of standards to the water resource Communication between all parties flawed especially when Implementing designs onsite Communicationprotocol/standards Conveying the importance or relevance ofthe requirements Communication issues Requirements NOT always well communicated Acronyms Consistency with city requirements Three-way communication between BCWD,applicants,and engineers Cost/ eutations Communication challenges Residents view WD rules as a taking or overly zealous Dest and regulation Private-individual education Education Turnmary of rule then -consistency throughout watershed Communication challenges-lake of understanding between o de Conflict between municipality and WD-Road reclaim projects and engineering costs Lade of clarity surrounding water governance Explaining to a property owner what Is a watershed district and why arc they bugging me-as a municipal offical Collaboration between others encies Miscellaneous Justification Lade of meaningful communication with clients on rule changes sonar Protess/communicatlon Lack of trans renpoor communication during rule review process-not all stakeholders Invited What is the genesis of the revised rules? Preconce ons/mis-reads of question Resistance/push back Where can i find the rule? Rules-what for and why Pro-settlement Changing standards by Inspectors Arbitrary inspections,)inspector=A,another=D Climate change-erosion control In giant rain review Prawn,Inspectors nidd BCWD Is the most difficult watershed to workwith overly complicated and unclear -complicated,Inconsistent,Inflexible Changing requirements Moving the goal line Changing/modifong requirements Awareness of charges to rules Navigating who to talk with,who is the dedslons-maker on water projects Communication Complei Rtes In meeting requirements Not having a brainstorm with meati to getcreatim solutions Thought they had It donep then watershed decided it had to be redesigned Consistency with city requiremenft BCWD are u nsually and excessively complex Complexity Modeling complaidtles Design standards(MIDS) Need simplified modeling requirements.MIDS or similar Construction Erosion Control requirements and Inspections are difficult ESC Inspections expectations Changing requirements and unfform[tV of regulations Govemanae/ entation Amount of time it takes to gota WD permit-It of submittals and re-submittals Unear Projects/redeoelopment Changing the requirements Rules-what for and wit emeM Availability of public ri -of-w Impact to land available for development Development Impacts Physical space to develop se Watershed requirements inhibit available land for development Encourage County/Oak Pada/Stillwater coordinated team to hire engineering firm to design comprehensive storrnwater sirstern to protect Long Lake based on aim future development Education Design constraints One size doesn't fit all Pre-settlement Is Impossible in a developed area Feesibillty Works to a erto solve the site contraln Pre-settlement is too restrictive The BCWD Board is NOT responsible to the electorate,passes vague rules with no recourse Balancing cost/burden Who has the authority? Cha irequirements Concerns that WD have taxing authority asappointed-not elected-offldah Communication various regulators against other vs.collaboratin Pi L5.99 MN STAT Is NOTfollowed by BCWD Compliance Requiring an applinntto demonstrate rule compliance priorto a hearing violates 15.99(MN-SEAT)the Feasibility Governance purpose of any hearing should only to be to discuss variances or deviations from the rules Can the rules be rescinded with a new board? Govemance/represeniation Make sure the Board represents all facets ofthe community(professional guidance e..engineer,developer) Why/who decides there is aneed for rule than ea? Process/communication Acceptance of rules(ex WCA over 20 years) Resistance/push back Costofeom lfance The additional costs to gota roved projects Balancing cost/burden Time is money for developers and cities Relaying to residents why watershed rules arc necessary and they must comply-expensive to residents Communication Cost Coat to Implement Cost to WD/developm of not meeting the bar t right away Cost/beneflt Cost The cost of stomtwater manisgement Is high.Most eng.Review/Ian Is spent on water martagement 14 of 29 BCWD approval timellnes arc too long Cost ProteRtlmelines Cost and time of process Sufficient space Cost of advice Increase costs engllneering changes to plans Cost/expectations No appeals process for engineering review from watershed=Bi Cost of compliance Hi her costs associated with meeting requirements More mains requirements and costs Costs-Eng,const land acquisition,mains Weeding to acquire more land to meet requimments Hi6hcas Resources available to maintain Doalgning(and getting epprovsd)stormwatar RMPs thetwork and that are fwsible cost-wlm Le,feasible technically and financial) Why are we discouraging redevelopment and placing even more regulation on redevelopment Design and regulation Why Is 10,000 sq.ft.disturbed the'ma k"size?We are rural and large buildings are constructed often Impact to economic development for redwelopment/dewdopmefft Development Impacts Going above the industry standards for lume standards w/o participating in costs Feasibility Amount of time it takes to W aWD permit-g of submittals and re-submittals Burden on Individual landowners for culvert size engineasing Concem that trigger lowering to 10,000 Sq.It.creates too many costs and hindrances Unmr Projects/redevelopment Resizing culverts on road crossings based on now hydration due to larger rain events-cast for townshipsto do hydraulic studies could this be done on a cots wide basis Additional maintenance responsibilities Ongoing maintenance Maintenance Fundis ReWew costs are high Money Transition period for Implementing rules Process/tommunlcation Thinks of water management atthe end of the design Technical Permit application Time-understand brainstorming,concept,whole process Time Timing of how to go through process with multiple regulatory agendas Climate change-erosion control in giant rain review process,Inspectors nitpicking Arbitrary inspections,1 inspector=A,another=D Iffiltbrating in areas where the M54 permit advises not to MNstormwater manual-development of a starmwater treatment train is an iterative process that balances Compliance site constraints roect goals,and available budget They dont follow the MN Stonnwater Manual stormwatertrealment train Too many Jurisdictions with different rules Conflicting multiple goals Implementation of rules for'What is road construction" Inconsistencywith decisions on meetingstandards x3 a �OnlsiStlnCylilld'I city requirements BCWD should adopt MIDS to be more consistent and make design easier.Its good enough Design standards(MIDS) Conflicts between WD rules and standards and previsions of the M54 General Permit Follow the state stormwater manual - EducationSumma of rule changes-consistenthroughout watershed Inconsistency Going above the Industry standards for rate/WO/volume standards coo participating in costs Fessiblitty Changing uirements and uniformity of regulations Gowuraince/representalion Conflict between municipality and WD-Road reclaim projects and engineering costs Lack of clarity surrounding water governmos Too many layers of water rules-WD,city,etc Road authorities(county,city,tw need to be able to do their job w/o over reach linear Projects/redevelopment Brown's Creek rules are more restrictive than MIDS.There is no consistencyProcess/communlcetlon Uniform of rules between watershed districts Timing of how to go through process with multiple regulatory agencies Time Unrealistic expectations for est site conditions Inpector turnover and cost from extreme events Asking about alternatives that could be acceptable and not getting direction Not having alternatives to design when rules aren't feasible Altemative design Not having aitemathrm m design when rules aren't feasible Why not use MIDS alternatives like everyone else? Don't pretend that volume control alternatives to infiltration can be as effective as Infiltration Excessive modeling requirements to consider alternative designs.Too expensive Alternatives to infiltration Need"off ramps"flexible treatment ions where Infiltration Is Infeasible or unwise BCWD is the most difficult watershed to work with Unrealistic expectations ibr the site for cirmlo mem dere -complicated,incondsterrt inflexible Cities need to be able to decide how to best protect grotmelwater.Altematives to Infiltration-DWSMAs Conflicting multiple goals Priority of water issues often trumps all others Noappeals process for engineering review from waborshed-111S$$ Castle 'ons Inflexibility,Needs tot uire more land m meet requirements Costs- con landacquisition,malts Rigidity of staff through development review process Design and regulation BCWD are unsually and excessively complex Design standards(MIDS) Meeting a resettlement standard may not be feasible or appropriate for linear or commercial projects How do we flx the rules to be reasonable and measureble Education Meet) esettiememconditions Feasibility Not respecting others'time m projects approved without the off romps Balancing priorities Lack offlexibility,ri lel Flexibility Pre-settlement is mo restrictive Interactions between applicants and WD and/or Lade of flexibility and"being reasonable" consultamstaff Lack of clear altemative treatmentuptions,MIDS has a tTO chartto help this issue Unear Projects/redevelopment Areroles waNUn?How are outcomes measured? Design and regulation Lark of know) a of technical aspects Education Frustratlonwlth kavrpeicenoedm uh ntstafl-notenoughautlwNtyandmwgNadantocomi r 7mexcHons bmweert eppfimrrfs and WD and/or mneeralternatives consultant staff Knowledge gaps in ndtheircontrectoriollowing the Brawn's Geek reles/theircommibneritamprevent muddy Unear Projects/redevelopment own's Creek Watershed assets stream ponds) understanding ofwater quality BMP design Miscellaneous 15 of 29 Knowledge%mprehensfon Technical Developers/engineers don't submlt copmlete submittal/plans-try to get by with meeting part of the requirements Developers/engineers don't want to address all the requirements-ask questions like"which requirement is Development Impacts most Important?" Going above the industry standards for volume standards w/o participating in costs Feasibility We have the responsibility to not make the water worse Lack of buy-in People dont value the resources or understand the goals-peopleengage when ltImpacts them directly Process/communication Lads of Interest by public until Impacted Push back from developers Resistance/push back Notfollowing design Notfollowlna eraslnn earrtral plan. Technical Barriers to technology Miscellaneous Don't lettreatments work Process/communicaifon Other Having no Independent land for own projects Technical Residents view WD rules as a taking or overly zealous Why are we discouraging redevelopment and placing even more regulation on redevelopment Design and regulation Why is 10,0W sq.R disturbed the"m c"size?We are rural and large buildings are constructed often Increased setbacks Design standards(MIDS) Property impacts Balance between protecting resources and property Burden on individual landowners for culvert size engineering Linear Projects/redevalopment Independence/"lands rights" Resistance/push back BOND is the most difficult watershed to work with Overly complicated and undear -complicated,inconsistent,Irdlerdble Knowing eucdv what Is required of me in satisfying the rules Communication Requirements NOT always well communicated Communication issues Rule clarifications Rule clarity fvolume and resettlement Compliance Too man ucsdictioru with different rules Conflicting Multiple goals Confusion of rule Implementation Consistency with city requirements Thou htthe had it done,then watershed decided it had to be redesigned Three-way communication between BCWD applicants,and engineers Cost/ ons Whattrl ers the buffer wetland requirements? Design and rulation Inspections calling out Items that don't have an Impact on WQ Erosion and sed.Control 6C Inspections expectations Unclear requirements Interactions between applicants and WD and/or Too"nit pIdW consultant staff Too many layers of water rules-WD city,etc Lack of clarity surrounding water governance How does the district define"reasonableness"in the SONAR Justification Process/communication Until youbegin to implement the rules lt's hard to determine the impacts Are them any rules?Expectations?Conditions? , Are vacations allowed? Satisfyingre-settementrerequirements Rules-what for and why care-settlement What arc the rules- settlement Irfionnation on"how"to meet rules Overcoming vagueness of watershed rules or ordinances Technical 16 of 29 MAOSC Legislative Preview—January 7,2019 New Governor,New Legislature Tim Walz will be sworn in as Minnesota's 41't Governor today(Jan.7).Late last week he announced the last of his 71 rahinar picks,all of whom subject to approval by the Republican-controlled State Senate.The Walz administration continues to stress the "One Minnesota"theme emphasizing that investments made in the Twin Cities area as well as greater Minnesota will reinforce each others'strengths.The main job for Walz and his cabinet now will be shaping the biennial FY 2020-21 budget proposal. Unlike anywhere else in the USA,Minnesota will have a divided legislature in 2019.All other states have their entire legislative branch under one-party control.Following the 2018 election,control of the House switches to the DFL by a 75-59 margin.The state Senate,now in the midst of a four-year term,remains in Republican control by a 34-32 margin.A state Senate special election is set for Tuesday,Feb.5 in District 11 where DFLer Tony Lourey of Kerrick resigned to accept the nomination as state Human Services commissioner in the Walz cabinet.After the special election contest is settled,Republicans will hold either a one-seat or three-seat majority in the state Senate.(For more on Tony Lourey,see the"Health Care challenges"section below.) The new House committee structure,committee chairs and membership have been announced.For full details,see: https://fi les.consta ntconta ct.com/3a b79aOb 101/f2ca92b7-3af 7-49a8-9 bb6-cl l296dO42cb.i)df Federal shutdown,state impact The partial federal government shutdown highlighted some immediate negative impacts for farmers who rely on loans from the Farm Service Agency and other sources(see links below),most federal employees,as well as visitors to national parks.As the shutdown continues the impact will broaden and deepen,straining Minnesota government resources significantly. Minnesota state resources can fill in the gap for important federal programs like food stamps,road construction dollars or federally-funded state employees for short period of time,but not much longer,according to Myron Frans,who is bridging from the Dayton administration to the Walz era as commissioner of Minnesota Management and Budget(MMB). httgs://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFSA/bulletins/226431a https://www.twincities.com/2018/12/28/shutdown-could-block-federa I-t)avments-to-farmers/ httgs://www.twincities.com/2018/12/28/how-wi II-the-shutdown-hurt-minnesota-the-longer-it-drags-on-the-worse-it-cou Id-be/ Top 10 Legislative Priorities The 2018 election brought a lot of changes to the Minnesota political scene with the change in governor,the decisive switch in party control of the Minnesota House,as well as a majority of U.S.House seats in Minnesota now occupied by first-time members of Congress—five of the eight seats.This is a big opportunity for MAOSC and its member cities to make a great first impression about our state and federal legislative priorities with these newly elected officials. We've made educating our new lawmakers a key part of our 2019 outreach efforts,and encourage local officials to also make welcoming the newcomers a high priority.At the state level,we've prepared a one-page listing of 2019 TOP TEN State Legislative Priorities.These are listed with brief explanations in the areas of Transportation,Local Government Aid,Workforce Essentials (affordable housing and child care access),Water Quality,Broadband,Rural Health Care,Local Autonomy,City Workforce Retention,Economic Development and Safe Communities.In addition,we have brought forward a listing of 2019 TOP FIVE Federal Policy Priorities for Minnesota's mostly fledging Congressional delegation.We will be working closely with our federal lobbyist,Dennis McGrann at Lockridge,Grindal and Nauen to press forward on our federal agenda,as well. In 2019,we want our member-city elected officials and key administrators to help push these state and federal agendas forward. We will be asking for your active participation testifying at the State Capitol,contacting your local legislators,and hosting state officials to speak out on these important topics. Please look over these policies,as approved by the MAOSC Board,and give some thought to how you would like to participate.In the coming weeks,we'll follow up with more details about how you can help us succeed in these vital Small Cities policy areas. State and Federal Priorities: httgs://fiiles.constantcontact.com/3ab79aOb101/d6f997ld-166d-4aa4-9b29-dc4f765b4421.pdf 17 of 29 LGA lag documented Gov.Walz pledged to fund Local Government Aid(LGA)at 2002 levels in his MAOSC election survey last fall,and has continued to speak out in public appearances since then. MAOSC and other city groups are united in their support to increase LGA funding by more than$30 million to achieve that goal.At the same time,cities set their 2019 property tax levies last month once again having to compensate locally for the lack of inflation-adjusted state aids commitment. Making the case for this state-local financing issue at the Capitol isn't easy,but we always find it appealing when Jeff Van Wychen brings out new research under the North Star Policy Institute banner.His latest effort effectively illustrates how cities have gradually relied on ever-increasing property tax burdens due to the shrinkage in LGA(adjusted for inflation)over the past two decades.In fact,the ratio of property taxes to state aids and credits was nearly an even split at 51/49 in 1990,but by 2018 property taxes far outstripped state aids and credits at an 81/19 clip—translating to a heavily tilted ratio of more than 4 to 1. htto://northstarpolicy.ore/state-a ids-the-shrinking-slice-of-the-city-revenue-pie MainStreets funding for small cities MAOSC will be pursuing a new strategy in 2019 for consistent,stable funding of the Small Cities Streets Account.Last year,a U.S.Supreme Court decision allowed states to collect sales taxes from beyond their borders.MAOSC seeks to set aside increased revenue for City Streets based on the new source of funds.This MainStreets proposal to dedicate$56.25 million a year in stable source funding to City Streets requires no tax or fee hikes.Instead,the funds are raised through collection of sales taxes owed by out-of-state and marketplace sellers typically involved in electronic commerce. The state projects an additional$112.5 million a year in new revenue collections for those sales in the next biennium.Main street retailers in small cities suffered as e-commerce received a free pass and preferential tax treatment.Tax-favored remote sales items were delivered by trucks over crumbling city streets paved largely with property tax dollars paid by local businesses and residents,but now there is an opportunity to correct this unfair situation and begin fixing the problem. Cities under 5,000 spend more than$225 million yearly on street maintenance and capital needs,but unlike other jurisdictions we receive no direct state funding through the funding formula.Those aggregated street costs across the state have been rising at three times the inflation rate over the past five years,according to State Auditor reports. MAOSC has been in regular contact with key lawmakers about the potential for employing this strategy for the past year in anticipation of the high court's order,and will work with other city groups to address the streets funding problem. Health Care challenges costly As mentioned above,Tony Lourey will be serving as the new Human Services commissioner.He'll be facing some tremendous challenges to adequately fund the health care system,address high rural costs and lack of access to rural care,deal with the coming phase out of the 2%provider tax,and find solutions to overcome partisan divides.As a state senator,Lourey visited with the MAOSC Board and staff in Moose Lake just over a year ago,and he discussed those very same challenging issues. Gov.Walz has proposed expanding MinnesotaCare to give more people access to the low-cost program.In order to accomplish this successfully,rural providers will need to be protected from the potential of under-compensation that has already put stresses on the rural system. MAOSC will be monitoring the situation and working for solutions that balance cost containment and preserve access to quality health care. https://www.twi ncities.com/2019/01/01/mn-lawmakers-face-expensive-hea lth-care-decisi ons/ MAOSC legislative reception MAOSC will co-host the Legislative Reception held by the League of Minnesota Cities(LMC)and other city groups on Wednesday,Feb.20,5:30 to 7:30 pm,in the State Capitol Rathskeller.The event is held in conjunction with the 2019 annual Legislative Conference set for Feb.20-21. 18 of 29 MACK strongly urges our member cities to participate in the Legislative Reception,as well as conference activities that include time to meet with your legislators on Feb.21.For MAOSC members who plan to attend,or are interested in getting more information,please contact James Robins by calling or texting him at 612-597-0214,or via email at inrMamesRobins.com. https://www.Imc.ore/page/1/2019LegislativeConference.isp Seeking Board applicants Applications to fill four current MAOSC Board of Directors vacancies are now being accepted.To be eligible for election and to serve as a Director of the MAOSC,a person shall be an elected or appointed official of a member city,or working with a regional group of cities where at least one(1)of the cities is a member of the MAOSC.At least one year of experience serving your current member city is strongly preferred. Applications will be considered at next month's Board meeting,yet to be scheduled in conjunction with the LMC Legislative Conference.While no firm deadline has been set,applicants are urged to indicate their willingness to serve as a Board Director as soon as possible.With one of the vacancies designated At-Large,any interested MAOSC member from across the entire state is eligible for an open seat,as well as the three specific regions in need of representation. The specifics related to all four Board vacancies,including service territories and length of term are listed here: https://www.maosc.org/index.asp?SEC=7E7B2839-6BD1-4666-AOAE-B71412354A30&Tvpe=B BASIC Please contact Jill Sletten for more information by calling or texting her at 651-260-2484,or via email at isletten 0slettenaaay.com. -END- 19 of 29 Eric Johnson From: Mary Mccomber <marymccomberC@aol.com> Sent: Monday,January 7,2019 11:25 AM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd:Great Topic- 'Conversations of the Valley' Coming Up! For weekly notes -----Original Message---- From: St. Croix Valley Foundation <emontgomery@scvfoundation.org> To: marymccomber<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Mon, Jan 7, 2019 11:02 am Subject: Great Topic-'Conversations of the Valley'Coming Upl View this email in your browser ST. CROIX VALLEY FOUNDATION The 2018-19 Luncheon Speaker Series - TALKING ABOUT TOUGH ISSUES - Hosted by St. Croix Valley Foundation with support from First State Bank & Trust Join us!-Know the Future! Still Time to Reservel -Invite a Friend! i 20 of 29 Wed. January 16th "What the Future Holds" How Our Re_aion Is Chanarina And What It Will Mean GuestSpeaker: Ellen Wolter, Research Scientist, MN Compass will share emerging trends across our region, examine why those trends are significant and demonstrate how Minnesota Compass resources can be utilized for planning - so our region doesn't get caught short. Minnesota Compass gives everyone - community leaders, policymakers, and engaged individuals who live and work here - a common foundation to identify, understand and act on issues that are going to affect our communities. Join us as Ellen Wolter shares what's just around the corner for our region. Wed.January 16th, 2019 11:30 a.m. Lunch 12:00— 1:00 Speaker Lake Elmo Inn Event Center 3712 Layton Ave. N, Lake Elmo, MN 55042 Cost is $20 You must pay in advance to guarantee lunch reservation. Limited walk ins accepted per space/lunch availability. 2 21 of 29 Eric Johnson From: Mary Mccomber <marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Monday,January 7,2019 2.49 PM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: NLC Small Cities Council 2019 Appointment FYI ----Original Message---- From: Sarah Lindsay<lindsay@nlc.org> To: marymccomber@aol.com <marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Mon, Jan 7, 2019 2:34 pm Subject: NLC Small Cities Council 2019 Appointment Mayor McComber- On behalf of the National League of Cities(NLC), I am writing to congratulate you on your appointment to the 2019 Small Cities Council. Your experience and commitment will bring great value to NLC, communities around the country and the efforts of the council. Your membership on the council begins with the receipt of this notification and concludes at the adjournment of the 2019 City Summit in San Antonio, Texas next November. This year's Council leadership team consists of Chair Alfred Mae Drakeford, Mayor, Camden, SC, Vice Chair Scott Maxwell, Vice Mayor, Lake Worth, FL, and Vice Chair Lew Watson, Mayor, Lincoln,AL. I am the NLC staff contact for the council and can be reached directly at 202-626-3067 or by email at Lindsav(anlc.org.All of us at NLC look forward to working with you in this capacity this year on the issues that matter to small cities. I hope you are already planning to attend NLC's Congressional City Conference March 10-13 at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington, D.C., and to join us for the Small Cities Council meeting that will take place during the conference. Your participation at this meeting is important as the council will begin developing a work plan for the year.To assist you in preparing for the meeting, I will email meeting materials and room locations in early March. Optional events or announcements may take place before the council meeting, and I will send you that information as soon as it is available. To register for the Congressional City Conference, click herd;. Congratulations on your appointment and I look forward to working with you this year. Sarah Sarah Lindsay Midwest Program Manager Member Services and Engagement National League of Cities 202-626-3067 1 l i n d s a y@ n l c.o rg —N >� AL � dlf — — — Fa— — i 22 of 29 For weekly notes -----Original Message---- From: Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce<communications@GreaterStillwaterChamber.com> To: marymccomber<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Mon, Jan 7, 2019 11:44 am Subject: Let's Get Social! in 2019 -LEARN TIPS at the Chamber's January 22nd Panel Discussion....and Lunch! REGISTER NOW for the Chamber Panel view this email in your browser Discussion Lunch Event on January 22nd! II CM IMENIUM - l e I q `r. Ji. 1 23 of 29 �_ ► ,van go, ' ] C loll► HEAR from a panel of four marketing specialists who will provide you with tips and tricks of the variety of social media platforms that are out there. Learn from different perspectives and what strategy works for you. During this lunch session, YOU WILL GAIN: Interesting stats with a State of Social presentation from Xceptional Notes to take action on from our panel of social media & marketing experts Even more tips & tricks with group discussion and time for Q and A. 1. What is the must-have social media channel for 2019 & Why? 2. Posting Best Practice 3. Deep dive on Hashtag 4. The power of video on social media 5. How to grow your audience & drive engagement 6. The ROI of Social Media 7. Is Social Media Enough on Its Own? 8. Top Tips and Takeaways for Social Media Panel of Experts: Jeremy Tyler, Xceptional; Julia Tice, Lighthouse Marketing Media; Patrick Cota, SCOPE TEN; and 24 of 29 Tuesday, January 22nd, 11 :30 a - 1 :00 p Register Here! Chamber members $20; non-members $25 Pre-registration appreciated! Lunch is included. Our event will take place at the Watermark Church Hub 5805 Osgood Avenue N. Oak Park Heights AMWL QpWalenwrkChurch Lunch provided by Rwr.+.hw BRINE'S mamu FAMILY OWNED a OPERATED FOR 60 YEARS JOIN US forof •-r Panel Discussions, brought tr you by -r Stillwater Chamber of ■ Open to chamber and community 3 25 of 29 Eric Johnson From: Mary Mccomber<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Saturday,January 5,2019 2:21 PM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd:Three Commitments for Local Leaders in 2019 For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: NaWnal League of Cities <news@nlc.org> To: marymccomber<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Sat, Jan 5, 2019 6:01 am Subject: Three Commitments for Local Leaders in 2019 View in browser rrr� nr it rrr , rr rrr ,r 'a t; �Ra all uii Ri i li 1 26 of 29 Three Commitments for Local Leaders in 2019 From NLC CEO and Executive Director Clarence Anthony, here are three New Years Resolutions every city leader should make to re-charge in 2019. Congressional City Conference March 10-13,2019 1 Washington,DC NEW YEAR, NEW O "' RAY gIR� ESS EA RAr Tell them your priorities 1140 at CongressionalConference REGISTER NOW: 31sT For Cities, The Shutdown is About People, Il Not Politics rj ;.�i _ <<. The 116th session of Congress began on Thursday, but the partial government shutdown continues. Here's an update on the stalemate from our experts. Austin Steps Up Efforts to Improve Access to High-Quality Child Care In an effort to increase access to child care in the city, the Austin City Council directed the city manager to review 4,,, service fees for child care providers. The Future of Work Begins with a City's Youngest Residents As city leaders across the country develop strategies to r prepare residents for changing job trends, here is one strategy you may not have considered: early childhood education. News 27 of 29 Shutdown Struggles Loom for Localities in Need of Infrastructure, Affordable Housing Route 50— January 3, 2018 A Better Count: Six Innovative Ways U.S. Governments are Preparing for the 2020 Census Governing — January 2019 Top 5 NLC Reports from 2018 CitiesSpeak— December 27, 2018 Announcements Webinar: Funding Parks Through Cross-Agency Partnerships From the City Parks Alliance Speakers from Brownsville, TX, and Westminster, CO, will share how they have funded innovative park and trail projects through cross-agency partnerships. In both cities, park leaders are partnering with leaders in transportation, community development, flooding and housing to identify how parks can meet multiple infrastructure needs while bringing recreation, greenspace and connectivity to underserved communities. Register here. Events March 10 - 13 Congressional City Conference (Washington, D.C.) Job Postings Affordable Housing Program Manager -- City of Bozeman, Montana Director of Financial Services -- City of Las Cruces, New Mexico City Manager -- City of Norman, Oklahoma _. lid LBANZ rll f� 3 28 of 29 You may opt out of email communications from NLC at any time. Update your communication preferences. This message was intended for: marymccomber@aol.com 660 North Capitol Street, NW, Suite 450 Washington, DC 20001 Privacy Policy ©2018 NLC, All Rights Reserved Powered by Higher Logic 4 29 of 29