Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutweekly notes August 16th 2019 CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS-W Y N for: August 16th,2019 TO: Citv Council Mebe s& St f FROM: Eric Johnson, t mini .. �u LISTING OF UPCOMING MEETIN(S-Thru Sept 241h, 019 Zoning&Development Items: 1. The City has received two applications-the bus garage site-CUP for a trucking facility& P 'p the former Goodwill site for a private car club use and repair operations. 2. A stormwater manhole that is utilized in Autumn Ridge Area (yellow arrow) is in need of some work or redirection as it becomes supercharged in a high-volume rain-SEE IMAGE. The City Engineer will be visiting the site next week.Also, this pond has not responded as well in past years to the DNR approved treatments. We have asked for pricing quotes on some other option including a small fountain that will prevent some stagnancy. 3. A yard maintenance violation was sent to 14420 Upper 56th.See enclosed. 4. Staff did meet again with BCWD Staff to discuss their proposed option to devolve their regulations to only be those of the City of OPH and STW-comparison discussion will need to continue and another meeting is planned for two weeks. BCWD is trying to understand if current city rules are sufficient for their purposes. We will have to see if that is truly how such a discussion will unfold and/or if they would seek some kind of Agreement-which at this stage is not advisable-as the question becomes who is responsible to who (Or at all?). Staff has advised BCWD Staff that the City cannot implement BCWD rules FOR the BCWD Board nor can it be subservient or an agent of the BCWD. 5. MET COUNCIL is seeking permission to encroach into the City's sanitary sewer easement near z STH 95 and 561h Street. See the enclosed MAP. MET COUNCIL will be performing some sewer interceptor work (a separate sanitary line) in 2020. This matter will require the permission of the City Council later this fall. The preliminary plans and discussion do not seem problematic. 6. The City has received a call from a resident commenting on the COLOR of a home in Autumn Ridge- BLUE that does not match the neighborhood. City Ordinances to not directly regulate color. City Ord: 401.15. C.8.a.1 -states as follows,but COLOR is NOT something the City likely would have solid ground to take action on: Compatihilih'. Buildings in all zoning districts shall maintain a high standard of architectural and aesthetic compatibility with surrounding properties. Compatibility means that the exterior appearance of the building,including design,architectural shale,quality of exterior building materials,and roof type and pitch are complementary wuh surrounding properties. 401.15.C.8.a.2: Does also discusses finishes, but again-NOT Color. These ordinances are enclosed. Other Items: • Staff has received Xcel Energy values from the Dept of Revenue which appears to show a 1.6%decline in values-this could be a loss in tax revenue of between$50,000 and$100.000. The DOR did not communicate with the City despite the City's request to take a short pause to offer a more transparent process in the valuation discussion. That said,while these values are decreased a bit, the important piece at this point is that we must see to it that these preliminary figures are CERTFIED to the County in a timely basis.Only then can the City offer a clear TNT notice. Staff has reached out to the County to discuss our options. • Washington County has responded to the City's request for a DOUBLE TURN Lane WESTBOUND from Osgood Ave to WB STH 36. Please see the enclosed communication. • Enclosed is a copy of the proposed MSCWMO Budget for 2020. Recall the MSCWMO is an ORGANIZATION comprised of 13 willing local entities for which there is written agreement on rules and water quality goals. Mayor McComber provided: 1. NLG Weekly for August 10th,2019&Federal Advocacy for August 13th,2019 2. Metro Cities News for August 16th,2019 3. MASOC-Letter from Executive Director-August 13th, 2019 4. information on Yellow Ribbon Event-Field of Bands Please let me know if you have any questions-651-253-7837 Cali Anytime. 1 of 26 CITY OF OAK PARK. HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL & COMMISSIONS MEETINGS & WORIKSESSIONS AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019 Monday, August 12 2:30 p.m. Center for Energy and Environment Energy Host Community Study Meeting (Conference Room) Monday, August 19 11:30 a.m. MCF-Stillwater New Warden Ceremony (MCF-Stillwater, 2nd Floor) 6:00 p.m. Parks Commission Meeting (Council Chambers) Tuesday, August 27 5:00 p.m. City Council Worksession (Conference Room) 6:00 p.m. City Council Meeting (Council Chambers) Tuesday, September 1.0 5:00 p.m. City Council Worksession (Conference Room) 6:00 p.m. City Council Meeting (Council Chambers) Thursday, September 12 6:00 p.m. Planning Commission Meeting (Council Chambers) Monday, September 16 6:00 p.m. Parks Commission Meeting (Council Chambers) Tuesday, September 24 5:00 p.m. City Council Worksession (Conference Room) 6:00 p.m. City Council Meeting (Council Chambers) POLICY NOTE:Items in red are expected to be SOCIAL EVENTS in nature and not an official City Council meeting. No official action or discussion may be undertaken by City Council Members who may attend such events. The City is listing such events so as the public is generally aware that there may be occasions when City Council members may desire to attend functions that are purely social-events. 2 of 26 City of Oak Park Heights 14168 Oak Park Blvd. N. Email:jhultman@cityofoakparkheights.com Oak Park Heights, MN 55082 Direct:651.351.16 Phone:651.439.4439 August 12, 2019 Mr. Bradley J. Moore 14420 Upper 561h St. Ct. N. Oak Park Heights, MN 55082 Re: Notice of Violation —OPH Nuisance Ordinance 1109—Tall Grass Dear Mr. Moore: I am writing with respect to the yard maintenance at 14420 Upper 5616 St. Ct. N. and to remind you that the lawn needs to be regularly cut — it is presently Overgrown and does not appear to have been cut for some time. The unmaintained lawn, in its current state, is considered a public nuisance per City Nuisance Ordinance 1.109. A copy of this ordinance is enclosed for your reference. This letter serves as the City's request that the lawn be mowed and the grass/weeds growing in your driveway at the rear yard be treated and/or removed prior to Monday. August 26, 2019 and that the yard continue to be maintained on a regular basis. A compliance check will be made after August 261h Additionally, there is a blue tarp at the roof of your house. Please advise me as to what the situation is necessitating the tarp and what, if any repairs are planned. If the roof is being repaired and/or re-roofed, please contact me regarding work permit requirements. Thank you for your prompt attention. Please contact me with any questions you may have. Sincerely, .PEA,NNING & CODE ENFORCEMENT Juli F ultman Budding Official Enclosure c: Eric Johnson, City Administrator (wo enclosure) 3 of 26 I to � Og�'gC �m A e` 0 1 'cz � 55 s a �t�9yy ✓ e Ing ckam a £ a� .j' tit. » gpe Y E �o .r (( N syt , 1 s a n �w✓ "v-�..+-:rte �A J ; 4 of 26 C. Elderly (Senior Citizen) Housing. Living units classified as elderly (senior citizen) housing units shall have the following minimum floor area per unit: Efficiency Units 440 square feet One Bedroom 520 square feet 7. Single Family Dwelling - Building Requirements. Single family homes within all zoning districts shall: a. Be constructed upon a continuous perimeter foundation that meets the requirements of the State Uniform Building Code. b. Not be less than thirty (30) feet in length and not less than twenty-four (24) feet in width over that entire minimum length. Width measurements shall not take account of overhang and other projections beyond the principal walls. Dwellings shall also meet the minimum floor area requirements as set out in this Ordinance. C. Shall have a minimum roof overhang of one (1) foot. d. Have an earth covered, composition, shingled or tiled roof. e. Receive a Building Permit. The application for a building permit in addition to other information required shall indicate the height, size, design and the appearance of all elevations of the proposed building and a description of the construction materials proposed to be used. The exterior architectural design of a proposed dwelling may not be significantly different from the exterior architectural design of any structure or structures already constructed or in the course of construction in the immediate neighborhood, nor significantly different from the character of the surrounding neighborhood as to cause a significant depreciation in the property values of the neighborhood or adversely affect the public health, safety or general welfare. f. Meet the requirements of the State Uniform Building Code or the applicable Manufactured Housing Code. 258. Building Type and Construction. a. General Provisions, 2 1) Compatibility. Buil ings in all zoning districts shall maintain a high standard of ectural and aesthetic compatibility with surrounding ries. Compatibility means that the exterior appearance of the building, including design, architectural style, quality of exterior building materials, and roof type and pitch are complementary with surrounding properties. 15-18 5 of 26 25 2) Maintenance. All buildings in the City shall be maintained so as not to adversely impact the community's public health, safety, and general welfare or violate the provisions of the Nuisance or Hazardous Building provisions of the Oak Park Heights Code of Ordinances. 25 3) Metal Building Finishes. No unfinished steel or unfinished aluminum buildings shall be permitted in any zoning district. High quality, non- corrosive steel, aluminum, or other finished metal shall be allowed for walls or roofs. 25 4) Prohibited Materials and Structures. a. Pole buildings and Quonset structures. b. Wood or metal poles as principal structure support where such supports are not affixed to a floor slab but inserted directly into the ground to achieve alignment and bearing capacity. 2-1,39 5) Accessory Buildings. All accessory buildings to residential dwelling units and non-residential uses shall be constructed with a design and materials consistent with the general character of the principal structure on the lot as specified in Section 401.15.D of this Ordinance except as allowed for temporary accessory structures specified in Section 401.15.D.11. 2-1 b. Exteri r Building Finishes—Residential: The primary exterior building fagade Pini es for residential uses shall consist of materials comparable in grade to e following: 1) Brick. 2) Stone (natural or artificial). 3) Integral colored split face (rock face) concrete block. 4) Wood, natural or composite, provided the surfaces are finished for exterior use or wood of proven exterior durability is used, such as cedar, redwood or cypress. 5) Stucco (natural or artificial). 6) High quality and ecologically sustainable grades of vinyl, steel and aluminum. Vinyl shall be a solid colored plastic siding material. 7) Fiber cement board. 8) Exterior insulation and finish systems. 9) Energy generation panels and devices affixed to a roof or wall. If not in use, the panels or devices should be removed and building surface restored to the original condition. 15-19 6 of 26 25 c. Exterior Building Finishes—Commercial: The exterior architectural elements and finishes for all buildings in the business zoning districts shall be subject to Section 401.16 of this Ordinance known as the Design Guidelines. 25 d. Single Family and Multiple Family Containing Up to Five (5) Units to Include All New Construction and Remodeling: 1) Entrances. Primary entrances on principal structures shall face the primary abutting public or private street or be linked to that street by a clearly defined and visible walkway or courtyard. Additional secondary entrances may be oriented to a secondary street or parking area. Primary entries shall be clearly visible and identifiable from the street, and delineated with elements such as roof overhangs, recessed entries, landscaping, or similar design features. 2) New Construction and Remodeling. New Construction and remodeling shall relate to the design of surrounding buildings where ±"= a ent. Design features such as similar setbacks, scale, bar facade divisions, lines, rhythm and proportions of openings, lS Q building materials and olors are possible design techniques, while R�M©� t�� �+ allowing desirable architecture innovation, variation, and visual interest. All sides of buildings shall use similar quality building materials and other architectural treatments as principal facades. 25 e. Single Family and Multiple Family Containing Up to Five (5) Units to Include Only New Construction- 1} Window and Door Openings. For principal residential buildings, above grade window and door openings shall comprise at least fifteen (15) percent of the total area of exterior walls (excluding the area of garage doors) facing a public/private street or sidewalk. In addition, for new principal residential buildings, above grade window and door openings shall comprise at least ten (10) percent of the total area of all exterior walls. 2) Garage Doors/Street Facing Building Facade. Public or private street facing garage doors shall be allowed to project no more than four (4) feet from the front or side facades of the ground floor living area portion of the dwelling or a covered porch (measuring at least eight(8) feet by eight (8) feet). 3) Garage Doors/Building Design for Attached or Detached Garages. Garage doors may be located on another side of the dwelling ("side or rear loaded") provided that the side of the garage facing the front public or private street has windows and other architectural details that mimic the features of the living portion of the dwelling. 15-20 7 of 26 Wa§Wngton Public Works Department Donald J.Theisen, P.E. Director :��County Wayne H.Sandberg, P.E. Deputy Director/County Engineer August 14, 2019 Mayor Mary MCComber City of Oak Park Heights 14168 Oak Park Blvd N, Box 2007 Oak Park Heights, MN 55082 Dear Mayor MCComber, Washington County and MnDOT staff, along with Commissioners Stan Karwoski and Gary Kriesel, have received your letter dated July 5th regarding the intersection of Trunk Highway (TH) 36 at County State Aid Highway (CSAR) 24 (Osgood Avenue) and the city's request for consideration of dual northbound left turn lanes. It is true that the northbound left turn volume at this location is high, and that the traffic queues often extend a significant distance from the intersection. Although this turn lane is longer than most, traffic flow in this lane can sometimes be impeded by vehicles turning onto the southwest frontage road (60th St) or by southbound vehicles turning into the Holiday Station. Traffic counts from 2017 confirms that the northbound left turn volume is approximately 50 percent higher than the number of vehicles continuing north on CSAH 24. That said, changing the lane configuration to allow for dual left turns would have some other undesirable effects that will need to be carefully considered: 1. The left turn from the southwest frontage road onto northbound CSAH 24 is already problematic, and would be made worse by requiring this traffic to turn through a dual left turn lane. It is therefore imperative that the southwest frontage road be relocated to a safer location prior to making any changes to the lane configuration on CSAH 24. 2. If the two left lanes are designated for left turns only, then thru traffic would no longer be able to use the second lane. It would therefore be imperative to ensure that all traffic intending to continue on CSAH 24 north of 36 is properly positioned in the 31 lane from the median. This could be accomplished but would require significant modification of the existing concrete median. 3. Alternatively, if through vehicles and left turn vehicles are both allowed to use the same lane, then the traffic signal must serve these movements simultaneously. This means that northbound and southbound traffic on CSAH 24 would not be able to have a green light at the same time, thus potentially increasing delays for CSAH 24 traffic compared to today's condition. 4. The implementation of a dual left turn would reduce or eliminate the ability to use Flashing Yellow Arrow (FYA) to control left turns from CSAH 24 onto Highway 36. So while the change in lane assignment could reduce delays, the necessary changes to the 11660 Myeron Road North, Stillwater, Minnesota 55082-9573 Phone: 651-430-4300 • Fax: 651-430-4350 • TTY: 651-430-6246 8 of 26 www.co.washington.mn.us Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action signal sequence would increase delays for northbound and southbound vehicles and crosswalk users, negating some or all of the benefit of the dual left turns. 5. Although queue lengths for left turns would potentially be cut in half, queue lengths for northbound through traffic would be expected to double Additionally, drivers intending to turn right onto eastbound Highway 36 will be more likely to be caught in this queue, unable to reach the very short right turn lane. This segment of CSAH 24 also faces other current challenges, including inadequate turn lane length for the southbound left turn onto CSAH 26 (59th Street) and problematic access points at 60th Street, Holiday, and the Stillwater Crossing retail area. As you know, this portion of CSAH 24 was reconstructed by MnDOT as part of the St. Croix River Crossing approach, and retained the numerous median openings. These openings continue to create operational problems on CSAH 24, and would also need to be evaluated as part of any change in lane configuration. The County has secured a small funding grant through the MnDOT Local Partnership Program (LPP)to redirect the southwest frontage road to the 59th Street intersection by way of Oren Avenue North. This realignment would enable the closure of the current median opening just south of Highway 36—thus improving traffic flow for northbound left turns onto Highway 36 even if no other changes are made to CSAH 24. If the southwest frontage road is successfully realigned to 59th Street via Oren Avenue North and the current frontage road connection removed, Washington County would support a. thorough evaluation of the potential for a dual left turn lane. It is possible that the advantages of providing a dual left turn onto Highway 36 at that time may well outweigh the many challenges, however this will take careful analysis of the traffic conditions, many of which will have been significantly altered by the realignment. This realignment effort will require significant coordination with the Andersen Windows Corporation since the proposed alignment currently consists of private roadways, and will also require support from the City as we engage with Andersen Windows Corporation and adjacent property owners. We look forward to a successful partnership with the City and MnDOT to improve traffic flow and safety in this area via the proposed realignment, along with exploring subsequent changes to Osgood Avenue upon completion. Please feel free to contact our office with any questions. Sincerely, Joe Gustafson, PE, PTOE Transportation Engineer Washington County Public Works C: Wayne Sandberg, County Engineer Don Theisen, Public Works Director 9 of 26 Eric Johnson, City of Oak Park Heights Administrator Molly O'Rourke, County Administrator Stan Karwoski, Commissioner Gary Kriesel, Commissioner Adam Josephson, MnDOT East Area Manager R1TRAFFIC1By Road1CSAH 241CSAH 24 58th to TH 3610PH24du@ILeftResponse.doc 10 of 26 MIDDLE CROIX WATERSHED MANAGEMENT i • • u.. 4 5 5 Hayward Avenue N . Oakdale , MN 5 5 1 28 Phone 651 . 3 3 0 . 8220 x 2 2 fax 651 , 3 3 0 . 7 7 4 7 www . mscwmo . org l MEMORANDUM ° wa Mscw TO: Middle St. Croix WMO Board of Managers FROM: Matt Downing, Interim Administrator wb DATE: July 16, 2019 RE: 7d.) 2020 MSCWMO Draft Budget The Middle St. Croix WMO has not increased its operating budget since 2015. At the March Board meeting, former Administrator Isensee requested that the WMO provide notice to the townships that are within the WMO that a potential of up to a 9% increase could be considered for the 2020 MSCWMO Budget. This increase would be due to the cost increases associated with the services the WMO solicits, not an expansion of the services provided by the WMO. 1 have prepared a draft budget for you review. In preparing the draft, the considerations included accounting for the increase in the WCD fee schedule, a review of expenditures to line items in 2016-2019 and a review of current funds set aside. The overall increase being proposed is 6.97%. A detailed breakdown of each service area follows: 1. Administrative—4.18%Total increase a. Line items Administration-General, Accounting and Minutes/Clerical increased from 7.45%- 3.33%to account for increases in the WCD fee schedule b. Line items Insurance& Bonds, Office Supplies and Copying/Printing decreased 16.67%- 13.3%. A review of past expenditures indicated that these reductions are closer to the actual expenses being incurred while still leaving a buffer for unexpected costs. 2. Project Funds—12.475%Total increase a. Line items Engineering-Project, Development Plan Reviews and BMP TA& Admin increased from 8.80%-5.0%to account for increases in the WCD fee schedule b. Line item BMP Cost-Share increased 36.46%. This is the single largest increase and takes this budget item back to where it was at the beginning of the last budget update. Having these funds available will be crucial for providing match to the many grants MSCWMO uses for BMP implementation. c. Line item Website increased 6.67%to account for increases in service cost. 3. Water Monitoring—3.32%Total increase a. The increase accounts for the increases in the WCD fee schedule. 4. Long Term Project Savings-17.86%Total decrease a. Line item Water Monitoring decreased 25%,the MSCWMO does not own a large volume of monitoring equipment and has previously invested heavily in savings,the proposed annual amount should be sufficient to continue to provide a good margin of financial buffer far the types of equipment MSCWMO would employ. b. Line item WMP Update decreased 16.67%. As of lune 13t',the savings set aside for both water monitoring and the WMP update was approximately$63k. A review of WMP update costs I conducted in 2018 indicated that our next plan update could be between $40k-$80k. The next plan update should occur in 2025, with the proposed reductions to savings contributions the overall account balance could be approximately$92K at that time. Middle St. Croix Watershed Management Organization Member Communities Afton, Bayport, Baytown, Lakeland, Lakeland Shores, Lake St. Croix Beach, Oak Park Heights, St. Mary's Point, Stillwater, a West Lakeland 11 of 26 A summary of the proposed contribution increase to each comMunity is as follows: 2015-2019 20201ntia[ 2020 Draft Budget Proposed 2020 Community Contribution Proposed Increase Increase Contribution City of Afton $596.15 $53.65 $41.57 $637.72 City of Bay ort $16,132.61 $1,451.93 $1,124.81 $17,257.42 City of Lake St. Croix Beach $5,194.25 $467.48 $362.16 $5,556.41 City of Lakeland $13,233.81 $1,191.04 $922.70 $14,156.51 City of St. Mary's Point $1,068.95 $96.21 $74.53 $1,143.48 City of Lakeland Shores $1,564.90 $140.84 $109.11 $1,674.01 ddo Cit of Oak Park Heights $21,255.40 $1,912.99 $1,481.98 $22,737.38 West Lakeland Township $19,392.42 $1,745.32 $1,352.09 $20,744.51 Baytown Township $13,556.64 $1,220.10 $945.21 $14,501.85 City of Stillwater $41,074.85 $3,696.74 $2,863.851 $43,938.70 TOTAL BUDGET $133,069.98 $145,046.28 $142,347-981 $142,347.98 Requested Board action-Approve the Draft 2020 MSCWMO Budget. Approve staff to send notification of the draft budget to the member communities. 12 of 26 M5CWMO 2020 Draft Budget 2019 MSCWMO Budget 2020 FWSCWMo Budget %CHANGE ADMINISTRATION Administration-General $ 29,000.00 $ 31,160.00 7.45% Accountin $ 1,500.00 $ 1,550.00 3.33% Legal Fees-General $ 1,000.00 $ 1,000.00 0.00% Audit $ 2,100.00 $ 2,100.00 0.00% Insurance&Bonds $ 3,000.00 $ 2,600.00 -13.33% Office su lieslequipmenl1 osta e $ 750.00 $ 625.00 -16.67% Minutes/Clerical Is 1,100.00 $ 1,180.00 7.27% Cap ing/printin /reproductionlminutes $ 750.00 $ 625.00 11.567" Admin Total $ 39,200.00 $ 40,840.00 4.18% PROJECT FUNDS Project C_onfingency 1 $ 2,000.00 $ 2,000.00 0.00% Engineering-Pro ect $ 5,400.00 $ 5,700.00 5.56% Development Plan Reviews $ 4,800.00 $ 5,040.00 5.00% Erosion Monitoring Program $ 2,250.00 $ 2,250.00 0.00% fflP P Cost-share(general) $ 14,656.00 $ 20,000.00 36.46% TA&Admin $ 25,521.00 $ 27,768.00 8.80% muni TA $ 3,000.00 $ 3,000.00 0.00% Wafer Resource Educator $ 6,300.00 $ 6,300.00 0.00% Website $ 750.00 $ 800.00 6.67% Inspections and Tracking Database $ 900.00 $ 900.00 0.00% Pro'ed Total $ 65,577.00 $ 73,758.00 12.475% WATER MONITORING Water Monitoring $ 21,293.00 $ 22,000.00 3.32% Water Monitoring Total $ 21,293.00 $ 22,000.00 3.3201/. LONGTERM PROJECT SAVINGS Water Monitoring-,Set aside farequipment replacement&Monitoring Costs $ 1,000.00 $ 750.1)0 -25.00% WMP Update $ 6,000.00 $ 5,000.00 -16.67% Savings Total $ 7,000.00 $ 5,750.00 -17.86% MSCWM0 Member Contribution Budget 133,070.00 142,348.00 1 6.97% 13 of 26 7117/2019 Eric Johnson From: Mary Mccomber <marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Saturday, August 10, 2019 8:18 AM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: How States and Cities Can Fight the Housing Crisis, Together For weekly notes -----original Message----- From: National League of Cities <news@nlc.org> To: marymccomber<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Sat, Aug 10, 2019 6:18 am Subject: How States and Cities Can Fight the Housing Crisis, Together View in browser NLCNATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES The Weekly ` +r r` A .w...w. J, y v � v t•r' F; / �-W 3.1 r How States and Cities Can Fight the Housing Crisis, Together At first glance, the housing challenges in California and Michigan couldn't seem more different. Yet, when we look deeper, we find that they're more 14 of 26 alike than different. So, how should local and state government work together to solve universal housin challenges? r i 1*0 NLC CITY SUMMIT N.11.11-1 LEAGUE of CITIES 1110 181"a-2019 Healthy People, Thriving Communities: New 3 T4 Technical Assistance RFP Cities of Opportunity are places where all residents can live productive, fulfilling and healthy lives. Learn about the pilot and how your community can get involved next! What Do Local Leaders Need to Know about the FCC Cable Order? On August 1, the FCC voted to approve a report and order that will make dramatic changes to cable franchises managed by state and local governments. Learn how these changes might impact your city. Making Space: Congestion Pricing in Cities �;. z. Mobility is critical to individual and societal prosperity. But r ,m the costs of traffic congestion and maintenance backlogs �- .. are ever-growing. One solution is congestion pricing. Download NLC's report here! News How Are 'Smart Cities' Impacting Workplace Trends? Business Leader- August 6, 2019 For Struggling Legacy Transit Systems, New Mobility Options Present Challenges and Opportunities 2 15 of 26 Forbes - August 7, 2019 Fix the Housing Crisis? It's Complicated, But Not Insurmountable. Citylab - August 2, 2019 Announcements NREL now accepting proposals for Solar Energy Innovation Network! Looking to deploy solar in your community but not sure how to do it? The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is accepting proposals for round 2 of the Solar Energy Innovation Network, which provides direct financial, analytical and facilitation support to teams with innovative solar deployment solutions. Currently, NREL is especially interested in proposals to help bring solar to rural communities. Additional information and application are available here. Events August 14 From Ferguson to Charlottesville and Beyond (DC & Online) September 11 - 13 Smart City Expo Atlanta (Atlanta, Georgia) November 20 - 23 NLC 2019 City Summit (San Antonio, Texas) Job Postings Health Promotion Coordinator -- Olympia, Washington City Manager -- City of Nogales, Arizona Community Relations Director-- City of Bristol, Tennessee NLC, OF CMS C3 IM You may opt out of email communications from NE_C at any time. Update your communication preferences. 3 16 of 26 Eric Johnson From: Maly Mccomber <marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Tuesday,August 13, 2019 7:53 PM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: Federal Advocacy Update: Week of August 13, 2019 For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: National League of Cities <advocacy@nlc_org> To: marymccomber<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Tue, Aug 13, 2019 0:10 pm Subject: Federal Advocacy Update: Week of August 13, 2019 If this message is not displaying properly,please view the online version. NATIONAL LEAGUE NLC OF Federal Advocacy Update In This issue - What Do Local Leaders Need to Know about the FCC Cable Order? - USCIS Announces Final Rule on Public Charge - Take Action on Clean Water Permitting - Stay Active During August Recess - NOAA Increases Chance for Above-Normal Hurricane Season - Next Issue of the Federal Advocacy Update What Do Local Leaders Need to Know about the FCC Cable Order? Angelina Panettied, 202.626.3196 On August 1 , the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted 3-2 to approve a report and order that will make dramatic changes to cable franchises managed by state and local governments. The order, which will go into effect 30 days after it is published in the Federal Register, has two major components that will impact local governments. The first addresses "in-kind" components of i 17 of 26 franchise agreements and their relationship to franchise fees, and the second addresses regulation of "mixed use" networks by state and local franchising authorities. NLC opposed the order, as did a large number of local governments, PEG operators and 49 members of Congress. Despite these protests, the FCC moved forward with the order. It is likely to reduce franchise revenues at the state and local level and wholly preempt state and local authority over the growing broadband and wireless services being provided by cable companies. The FCC claimed this order was done to expand broadband access but provided no requirement or assurance from cable companies that reduced franchise obligations would reduce costs for consumers or increase broadband deployment in underserved areas. Read the full CitiesSpeak blog on the Order here. USCIS Announces Final Rule on Public Charge Stephanie Martinez-Ruckman, 202.626.3 t This week, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced the publication of a final rule regarding public charge. The rule broadens the public benefit programs to be considered to determine if an individual seeking admission to the United States would be considered to be a public charge. Specifically, the rule: • "Defines the term "public charge" to mean an individual who receives one or more designated public benefits for more than 12 months, in the aggregate, within any 36-month period" • "Defines the term "Public benefit" to include any cash benefits for income maintenance, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), most forms of Medicaid, and certain housing programs" • "Makes certain nonimmigrant aliens in the United States who have received designated public benefits above the designated threshold ineligible for change of status and extension of stay if they received the benefits after obtaining the nonimmigrant status they seek to extend or from which they seek to change" 2 18 of 26 Last November, NLC filed comments in response to DHS' request for comments on the then proposed rule. NLC is disappointed that the final rule remains largely unchanged from the initial proposal, which will have a direct negative impact on the economic vitality of our communities, both to local businesses and the workforce, and endanger the health and well-being of our residents. The expansion of the public charge definition preempts cities from offering services to all residents in our communities. Over the coming weeks, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) of DHS will conduct public outreach on the final rule. If your community continues to be concerned about the impact of the final rule, we strongly encourage you to engage in these sessions to understand the full impact of the final rule. Take Action on Clean Water Permitting Carolyn Berndt, 202.626.3901 As Members of Congress are at home in the districts for August Recess, now is the perfect time to ask them to co-sponsor key pieces of legislation that will support our nation's infrastructure. Part of NLC's Rebuild With Us infrastructure campaign, H.R. 1764, would extend the maximum term for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits issued under the Clean Water Act from 5 to 10 years. Current federal law only provides for 5-year NPDES permit terms. This bipartisan bill would help communities better align planning and construction schedules for local water and wastewater treatment projects. Send tweets to your members of Congress here. Specific co-sponsor targets include: Allred (D-TX-32), Brownley (D-CA-26), Carbajal (D-CA-24), Carson (D-IN-7), Craig (D-MN-2), Davids (D-KS-3), Delgado (D-NY-19), DeSaulnier (D-CA-11 ), Espaillat (D-NY-13), Fineknauer (D-IA-1), Fletcher (D-TX-7), Hank Johnson (D-GA-4), Lipinski (D-IL-3), Lowenthal (D-CA- 47), Pappas (D-NH-1 ), Payne (D-NJ-10), Plaskett (D-USV-1), Sires (D-NJ-8), Stanton (D-AZ-9), Titus (D-NV-1 ), Wilson (D-FL-24). Letters of support from NLC, League of California Cities and the Ohio Mayors Alliance. 3 19 of 26 To see the full list of infrastructure legislation that need your action, click here. Stay Active During August Recess Rohan Narayanan, 2012.626.30129 The House and Senate have entered their second week of recess and do not return to session until September 9. With Members of Congress back in-district for a sustained period of time, now is the perfect time to tell the story of why cities, towns and villages need a strong federal-local partnership to advance local priorities and involve community voices in federal policymaking. One of the most effective ways to grab your Representative's attention is to place an opinion-editorial (op-ed) in your local newspaper. Members of Congress and their staff keep a close eye on local and regional media outlets because it helps them stay up-to-date with what's happening in their district. A well-crafted op-ed can grab their attention and further their understand of an issue. Now more than ever, it's imperative for us to continue to keep up our drumbeat that local leaders need a federal partner to invest in infrastructure and advance other local priorities. By writing op-eds, amplifying our message on social media and meeting with your Members of Congress in-district, we can make a difference for our residents. Visit NLC's Take Action page, choose an issue you are passionate about and help NLC make a difference for cities, towns and villages. As a local leader, you know the impact federal decisions have on our communities. By raising our collective voice, we can ensure that Congress and the Administration make local issues a priority. NOAA Increases chance for Above-Normal Hurricane Season Yucel ars. 202.626.3124 NOAA forecasters monitoring oceanic and atmospheric patterns say conditions are now more favorable for above-normal hurricane activity since EI Nino has now 4 20 of 26 ended. Two named storms have formed so far this year and the peak months of the hurricane season. August through October, are now underway. "NOAA will continue to deliver the information that the public depends on before, during and after any storms throughout the hurricane season," said Neil Jacobs, Ph.D., acting NOAA administrator. "Armed with our next-generation satellites, sophisticated weather models, hurricane hunter aircraft, and the expertise of our forecasters, we are prepared to keep communities informed to help save lives and livelihoods." Seasonal forecasters with NOAA's Climate Prediction Center have increased the likelihood of an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season to 45% (up from 30% from the outlook issued in May). The likelihood of near-normal activity is now at 35%, and the chance of below-normal activity has dropped to 20%. NOAA encourages residents in communities that can be impacted by landfilling hurricanes to ensure their preparedness measures are in place now to become a more Weather-Ready Nation. Stay tuned to the National Hurricane Center for the latest about tropical storm and hurricane activity in the Atlantic. Next Issue of the Federal Advocacy Update Rohan Narayanan, 202.626.3029 With the House and the Senate having adjourned until September 9, the next issue of the Federal Advocacy Update will be published on Tuesday, September 10. It promises to be a busy fall with issues important to cities and towns front and center, so please stay tuned for changes in the format of the Federal Advocacy Update Newsletter. NATJOWL IML-C OF ernes 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 5 21 of 26 Metro Cities News 8/16/19 Page 1 of 2 C TRO >,-1IES Member Login $ 0., e pR eetropuitan kl­,..:d.. Home Metro Cities News About Us Meetings&Events Membership Advocacy Policies&Resources MAMA Return to the bloq Upcoming Events Metro Cities News 8/16/19 byKimberiv Ciarrocchi Mo sep 9.2019 category.-Newsletter 7ransoortation&General Govemmem Policy Committee Aug c­ga Por�yc. iaee 16 in This Issue: roeseplo.zat9 Municipal Re�Cr.ues Po;:y $mate Select Committee on Noosing Affords ility and Access Holds First Meetingee � Catcgo,y�a:rcy Comm�nee • Policy Committee Uadate w�sep 11.zale Nw Laws fpr L I Option Sales Taxes (SrieV400lita1Aoencies Policy Committee t i ee,e9ery you reo7r.,,,ttce Wed Sep 11.2019 Senate Select Committee on Housing Affordability and Access Holds First Meeting Housing&Econorm Developmem policy Committee A new Senate select housing committee authorized in the 2019 legislative session,held its first meeting #� on August 13.Representatives from Minnesota Housing,builders and realtors made presentations to ate9Ury Pa',commn,ae the committee. view Full Calendar The committee plans to hold monthly hearings over the interim,and its work may inform 2020 session activity.The committee is chaired by Senator Rich Draheim and includes four other members:Senator Announcements Karin Housley,Senator Mark Koran,Senator Kari Dziedzic and Senator Dan Sparks-Senator Kent Eken, who serves on the Senate Housing and Agriculture committee,also participated this week. It's not too late to join a 2019Metro cities Policy Minnesota Housing Commissioner Jennifer Ho provided statistical demographic data on Committees.Metro Cities'policy committees annually develop homeownership,Minnesota's current and future population,and who MHFA serves with its programs. po5cy recommendations based on Her data showed Minnesota's population is becoming more racially diverse and older.Homeownership input from member city rates are highest for white/non-Hispanic Minnesotans(upper 70th decile)and lowest for African- representatives.Committees American/black Minnesotans(lower 20th decile).She explained barriers to homeownership including: submit policy recommendations lack of wealth,debt including student loans,low credit score or no credit,lack of supply,and knowledge to the Board of Directors for of the m homebu review,modification and homebuying process. distribution to the general Three representatives from the Twin Cities builders'association commented regarding local regulations membership.The membership will meet in November,prior to the and listed the local fees that impact the price of single-family homes.Most of their talking points and legislative session,to debate and homebuilding comparisons came from their recently released Priced Out document.They highlighted adopt Metro Cities'policies for the homebuilding costs related to the state building code,land costs,regional government policy and local 2020 legislative session- governments. Click here to view the schedule for this summer and for the link to Representatives from realtors'associations presented data on home sales,home prices,sales volumes sign up. and household affordability.They presented year-over-year data on number of sales,days on market, list price ratio(asking rate versus selling rate),median sales prices,home inventory and housing affordability(home prices,incomes and interest rates).Realtor research showed builders have to build in the$500,000 or more range to make profits.Data also showed the highest number of new listings are larger homes(over 2,500 square feel).New townhome and condo listings have increased since 2017,a change the realtors explained was due to state law changes supported by a coalition of housing stakeholders,including Metro Cities.The realtors also showed people are spending more time in their homes,now at ten years(up from five to seven-year tenures in the 1990s and 2000s).Flat household incomes have contributed to affordability challenges,with incomes not keeping pace with home prices. Metro Cities was not invited to present at this first committee meeting,however,cities and their representative associations will have an opportunity to highlight local roles in housing at a future meeting.Updates will be provided via the Metro Cities newsletter. 22 of 26 https://www.metrocitiesnm.or,g/index.php?option=corn dailyplanetblog&view--entry&yea... 8/16/2419 Metro Cities News 8/16/19 Page 2 of 2 Our Tweets Policy Committees Update Tweets by Metro Cities"four legislative policy committees held second meetings this week.A range of policy @MelroCiliesMN issues and concerns were discussed,including transportation funding sources,local comprehensive `,'Y; Metro cities planning processes,new local sales tax laws,and others.Each committee hosted a speaker this week- 'i .rcc't1e;MN The committees will hold third and final meetings the week of September 4th.Once policies are MN Housing Commissioner recommended,they will be forwarded to the Metro Cities Board for approval. Jennifer Ho speaks to Metro Cities'housing policy committee. New Laws for Local Option Sales Taxes At Metro Cities'Municipal Revenues Committee meeting this week,Patricia Dalton from House Research presented information on new laws relating to local option sales taxes and provided a concise one oaoe summary document outlining the new changes,included here for your information. Please contact Patricia Nauman at 651-215-4002 with any questions. Share this post: -- Aug 14.2010 Metro cities Embed View 00 Twitter Metro Cities(Association of Metropolitan Municipalities) 145 University Ave W.Suite 125 St_Paul,MN 55103 651-215-4000 Back to top A powered by Q 23 of 26 https://www.metrocitiesmn.org/index.php?option=com_dailyplanetblog&view=entry&yea... 8/16/2019 Eric Johnson From: Mary Mccomber <marymccomber@aoi.com> Sent: Tuesday, August 13, 2019 3:52 PM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: Thank You for your continued support of MN Small Cities! For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: Minnesota Small Cities <cap@maosc.org> To: marymccomber <marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Tue, Aug 13, 2019 11:18 am Subject: Thank You for your continued support of MN Small Cities! August, 2019 Dear Oak Park Heights Mayor and/or Staff On behalf of the entire Minnesota Association of Small Cities' Board of Directors, 1 am writing today to THANK YOU for your 2019-2020 Membership Renewal!Your city's continued support is critical to our ongoing advocacy efforts at the Capitol-and is very much appreciated. As you may have read in the July Newsletter,we have many exciting things planned this year and we are pleased that the City of Oak Park Heights will be along for the ride. Stay tuned for monthly updates. As my travels take me around this beautiful state, I hope to have the opportunity to meet with each and every city leadership team that wishes to do so. I am interested in learning more about the challenges your city is facing,the successes you've had,and gaining a better understanding about how the MN Small Cities organization can support efforts to help your cities grow and prosper. If you would welcome such a meeting, please contact Lynda Barry(lynda a,maosc.org)or me ca maosc.or to be added to the list of meetings to be set up. In the meantime, in an effort to learn even more about how we can best serve you,we will soon be sending out a survey to measure small cities' expectations, as well as our performance. That data will guide potential improvements to support your important work. Again,we greatly appreciate your ongoing support and look forward to working with and for you in 2019- 2020 and beyond. If at any time you have suggestions,concerns or issues you think we can help with, please don't hesitate to contact me. Thank You for the work you do for your community! Sincerely, 24 of 26 Cap O'Rourke Executive Director i MN Small Cities 612 483 1863 Ccap;,�maosc.orq Minnesota Association of Small Citiesmaosc.org y MAOSC 1 145 University West, St. Paul, MN 55103 Unsubscribe marymccomber@aol.com Update Profile I About Constant Contact Sent by cap@maosc.org in collaboration with Gmftit oniact" y = V Try email marketing for free today! 2 25 of 26 FIELD OF BANDS FUNDRAISER TO BENEFIT SERVICEMEMBERS9 VETERANS and THEM FAMILIES )r Saturday, September 1 4, 2019; 12 NOON until SPIE FEATURING AWARD WINNING BAND, SFO, ALONG WITH THE BANDS, WESTSIDE AND BAD WEATHER. Vestsid-Ae- 13 WASHINGTON COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS 12300 40th St. N., Stillwater, MN 55082 ADVANCE TICKETS $15.00; $20-00 DAY OF SHOW KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE FAMILY FRIENDLY EVENT! At TICKETS AVAILABLE ON WEBSITE www. 5cityyellowribbon . com EVENT WILL HAPPEN ` �' or • 92.1 103.7 r 107,lHv: -Y 740 *small per ticket handling fee will be added 26 of 26