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weekly Notes- December 20th 2019_
CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS—WE O for: December 201,2019 TO: City Council Me ers FROM: Eric Johnson,C' IS or F Zoning&Development Items: 1.No new applications have been received. 2.There remains a dispute between various property owners and the homeowner's association at the East Oak site. I was asked by the HOA to clarify parameters related to single family dwelling units and shared residences. In essence, a resident there is renting out a room which is ok, but may not exceed more than three unrelated persons. 3.The City has received some complaints about the number of cars parking along the east side of the NAPA building;there are too many cars and they block the line of sight for people trying to turn onto Olene Ave from 59th Street—SEE IMAGE. Staff has reached out to the owner—Kevin LaCasse to remind him of the limited parking requirements and to keep track of it. y 4 4.Washington County and MNDOT will be seeking the City to participate in an MOU for the sourth frontage road realignment behind the Carbone's building.Largely this does not involve the City in many respects,but MNDOT is asking the City to accept plowing responsibility through 2040;the current Agreement will expire in _ 2021.At this stage they are not seeking any other financial commitment from the City or any other maintenance request. I will have a DRAFT MOU to share at the Council's next worksession.My furtrher understanding is the the County has not yet secured all the necessary Right of Way with some of the smaller land owners, but is confident in getting that completed.No signalization is planned for the new intersection south of the Holiday Gas Station at this time. Other Items • The Park Commission did approve some limited trail grooming for FAT TIRE bicycles within the MNT Biking Trails. Those permissions have been embedded to a short agreement and is enclosed. • The 2020 Washington County schedule for the Board of Appeal/Equalization/Open is now available—see the enclosed schedule of dates. The City still maintains the OPEN BOOK process and not a local"Board of Review".Any property owner of lands in the City may attend any one of the four dates(in April)to discuss their property values. • Enclosed is a copy of the Washington County EDA Plan for 2020-2022;nothing vastly new here,but good to review their available funding and programs targets.Staff has had conversations with them as to a possible joint funding of the Xcel King Plant Advisory Committee. • Fiesta Cancun(similar to 2 years ago I believe),did not provide timely application of their Liquor License for 2020.Thus,they will not be permitted to serve alcohol on Jan 1St or beyond until their required information is received and acted on by the Council in January. • Metro Cities News for 12120/19 Mayor McComber provided: 1. NLC Weekly for 12/14/19&Federal Advocacy Newsletter for 12/18/19 2. Press Release—T.I.S.Committee&Roster 3. MAOSC—Newsletter for 12/16/19 4. Newsletter from Rep.Shelly Christensen 12120/19 Please let me know if you have any questions-651-253-7837 Call Anytime. 1 of 42 City of Oak Park Heights Page 1 of 1 14168 Oak Park Blvd. N•Oak Park Heights,MN 55082•Phone(651)439-4439•Fax(651)439-0574 12-18-19 Matthew S.Greenstein,Esq. Greenstein Sellers,PLLC 825 Nicollet Mall.Suite 1648 Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402 VIA EMAIL ONLY: maManeenstainsellers.com RE:5850 Oxboro Avenue North Dear Matt: Based only on the facts I have,and not inclusive of on-site inspections or sworn statements, I can offer the following general input To that end: If this DWELLING you discuss is constructed intemally for the purposes of a SINGLE- FAMILY Structure or Dwelling Unit,-which I believe it is...then the use of it cannot be for two families,per se.This is factual due to the following definitions as it relates to Land USE in this district AND how the dwelling unit is constructed. For the purposes of this discussion,the City defines Single Family-DWELLING UNITS as follows,see below: Neff.Sfngte-F=1'rA dweAVunAd ogned exekdreytoroccupancybyone 1 tarn 1.Attached:A d"ft NW rs1obred to anotherat one armors sides by a parfyw k 2.Detecfred A AWIng unAnot attadred to another dweft orsbuc[um oris entirely wumorm ft by open space. So no, two °families"cannot reside in a Single Dwelling Unit. If they would like to use this unit as a TWO Family- Dwelling unit,it must include separate cooking and housekeeping facilities for each.And,must include all access and fire escape elements as required by the State Building code. BUT also note...City Ord.Definition: TamW An indroxfrra!or in(2)or mon:persons relefed by bba4 marriage adq*n ora gawp of rw nm than three(3)persons who need not be relaQed by blood ormarnage Aumg togeiberm a dWft unit except torba mentguests being axwo mdated m a bed and breakfast orbensientfodgmg fec*.(The numberof persons harW detinedane ft basis upon%*ch perbmancesfandhrds are 83WMed within this Ordurmse.), Under this, a property—constructed as a single dwelling unit could simply host up to three unrelated persons (so defined as a"family]in one dwelling unit If there is an internal segregation of space amongst them, I would need to see that agreement to better interpret the arrangement as applicable to the definition of a dwelling unit.But in summary, —each of the le 'ding there must have full access to the common areas of the facility,i.e.driveways,bathrooms, kitchens, oes not become non-compliant,de-facto°Two-Family Dwelling Unit". PI a let e w if you need any further input. Sincerel ohnson,AICP C` Ad ' istrator Cc: Weekly Notes 2 of 42 City Of Oak Park Heights 14168 Oak Park Blvd. N•Oak Park Heights MN 55082•Phone 651 439-4439•Fax 651 439-0574 Page 1 of 1 12/20/19 TO: Matt Lehman,SASCA FROM: Eric Johnson, City Administrator RE: FAT TIRE—Trail Grooming Dear Matt: As you know the City's Park Commission found it favorable to allow the use of trail grooming equipment for fat tire bike use after certain snowfalls to groom the MNT Biking trails for FAT TIRE Biking.This letter conveys that permission to SASCA to operate that grooming equipment contingent upon the following: 1. Any operation may only commence after 10 AM and cease by 6 PM on any given day and during the hours of general park operation. 2. Grooming operations may occur only after a snow event that would render the trails essentially unsuitable for fat tire, but not more than 8 hours per week.The goal here is to minimize any such grooming activities to only those times when it is essential.The equipment used must wholly similar in size and scope be as presented to the Park Commission in December 2019,see the attached MEMO dated 12/13/19 3. The permissions granted herein become subject to underlying Agreement between the City and SASCA.SASCA shall be responsible for all elements of such grooming, including but not limited to costs, liabilities, injuries,volunteers,volunteer coordination,etc. 4. This permission may be revised,amended or revoked at any time by the City for any reason and without cause. If you believe these are acceptable,please sign below and return this to my attention. FOR SASCA: Date___. Signature Printed Name Must have authority to bind SASCA 1 of 2 FAT TIRE GROOMING 3 of 42 City of Oak Park Heights Pa6elafl 14168 Oak Park Bhp N•Oak Pask Heighb,11K 55082•Phone(651)439-1439•Fax(651)439-0574 12/13/19 TO: Park Commissioners FROM: Eric Johnson,City Administrator RE: 12/16 Park Commission—FAT TIRE The mountain biking group that the City has been working with SASCA,would tike to try to groom some of the mountain biking trails for"fat tire"biking.They .�. propose to use a small piece of equipment 7 to 10 times per year during the " snow season to pound down the snow-track..,see the picture and something to discuss on Monday. ,. enn r� Its. n j k, 4, 2 of 2 FAT TIRE GROOMING 4 of 42 2020 Tentative Meeting Schedule Board of Appeal&Equalization and Open Book Meetings City/TownshipCity/Township Format Meeting Date Time Location Baytown Community Center Baytown Local Board Monday,April B 202D 4-5 m 4020 McDonald Dr N Dellwood City Hall Dellwood Local Board Monday,April 13 2020 5:D0-5:30pm 111 Wildwood Rd Denmark Town Hall Denmark Local Board Tuesday,April 14 2020 4:30-5:30pm 14008 90th St S Forest Lake City Hall Forest Lake Local Board Monday,April 6 2020 5:30-6:30pm 1408 Lake St S Grey Cloud Island Town Hall Grey Cloud Island Local Board Thursday,April 16 2020 6-7 m 9910 Grey Cloud Island Or S Hugo City Hall Hugo Local Board Thursday,April 9 2020 5:30-7pm 14669 Fitzgerald Ave N Lake Elmo City Hall Lake Elmo Local Board Wednesday,April 22 2020 5-7pm 3800 taveme Ave N Lakeland City Hall Lakeland Local Board Tuesday,April 7 2020 5-epm 690 Quinnell Ave N Mahtomedi City Hall Mahtomedl Local Board Wednesday,April 6 2020 5-opm 600 Stillwater Rd Marine on St Croix City Hall Marine on St Croix Local Board Tuesday,April 7 2020 9-10am 121 Judd St May Town Hall May Loral Board Wednesday,April 22 2020 9-10am 13939 Norell Ave N Scandia Community Center Scandla Local Board Monday,April 6 2020 5-6 m 14727 209th St N Joshua Taylor Building West Lakeland Local Board Monday,April 8 2020 1 D-11 am 3394 Lake Elmo Ave N Willemie City Hall Wlllemie Local Board Monday,April 27 2020 6:30-6:30pm 111 Wildwood Rd Afton Open Book Bayport Open Book Birchwood Oen Book May attend any one of four Regional Open Book meetings Cottage Grove Open Book Grant Open Book Hastings Oen Book Regional Open Book-Cottage Grove Cottage Grove City Hall Lake St Croix Beach Oen Book Thursday,April 2,2020 5-7pm 12800 Ravine Pkwy S Lakeland Shores Oen Book Landfall Oen Book Regional Open Book-Oakdale Oakdale City Hall Newport Oen Book Wednesday,April 8,2020 5-7pm 1584 Hadley Ave N Oak Park Heights Open Book Oakdale Open Book Regional Open Book-Woodbury Woodbury City Hall Pine Springs O n Book Thursday,April 16,2020 5-7pm 8301 Valley Creek Rd St Mary's Point Open Book St Paul Park Open Book Rggional Open Book-Stillwater Washington Cty Govt Center Stillwater City Open Book Wednesday,April 22,2020 2-7pm 14949 62nd St N Stillwater Township Oen Book White Bear Lake Oen Book jWoodbury Oen Book County Board Govt Center Tuesday,June 16,2020 5:00pm "'By Appointment Tuesday,June 23,2020 11:00am (tunes subject to change) "'Appointment deadline for County Board Wednesday May 6,2020 5 of 42 'ATa, s., • Property Records and Country Taxpayer Services Jennifer Wagenius Director MEMORANDUM DATE: December 9, 2019 TO: Washington County City and Township Clerks FROM: Bruce Munneke, Washington County Assessor SUBJECT: 2020 Local Board of Appeal and Equalization/Open Book Meetings The tentative schedule for the 2020 Board of Appeal and Equalization/Open Book Meetings is attached.The time frame in establishing dates for your Local Boards and Open Book meetings will be similar to last year. 1. Establish and distribute tentative schedules by December 15,2019. 2. Allow 30 days for feedback from local jurisdictions to confirm or to change tentative dates. Please call or email Barb Kolbe with any date or time changes. 3. Establish and distribute the Final Board of Appeal and Equalization/Open Book Meeting schedule by February 15,2020. No changes will be made to the schedule after this date. For those communities that offer their property owners an Open Book Meeting format, please recall that those property owners can attend any of the four Regional Open Book Meetings held throughout the County. This year we will have meetings held in Cottage Grove, Oakdale,Woodbury,and Stillwater. If we do not hear from you,we will assume the meeting will be conducted on the date and time listed on the schedule; a quorum will be in attendance;and a meeting room will be made available. Please note that each board must have a trained certified member to be in compliance for the 2020 meeting. During the month of February the Assessor's Office will again be developing the annual Assessment Report. The purpose of this report is to provide general information to the communities in Washington County regarding the appeals process and the 2020 assessment.The report will be made available on the Washington County Assessor web page (washineton.minnesotaassessors.com/) under"Appraisal Reports" prior to April 1, 2020. If you have any question please call Barb Kolbe(651.430.6104)or myself(651.275.7518). Thank you. cc: Jennifer Wagenius,Director Property Records and Taxpayer Services Rollie Huber,Deputy County Assessor-Commercial Al LaBine,Appraisal Supervisor-Residential Don Lovstad,Appraisal Supervisor-Residential Joyce Larson,Assessment Support Manager Government Center • 14949 62nd Street North—P.O. Box 6, Stillwater, Minnesota 55082-0006 Phone: 651-430-6175 • Fax: 651-275-7060 • TTY: 651-430-6246 6 of 42 www.co.washington.mn.us Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Economic DevelopmentP�n September 2019 wwASHINGTON COUNTY Comm, unity Developmiai 1t Agency 7of 42 TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLEOF CONTENTS............................................................................................................................1 INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................................................2 VISIONAND GOALS.................................................................................................................................4 COREPROGRAMS...................................................................................................................................5 NEWPROGRAMS.....................................................................................................................................8 OTHERINITIATIVES.................................................................................................................................9 SUMMARY................................................................................................................................................11 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS.......................................................................................................................12 APPENDIX................................................................................................................................................13 1 8 of 42 S INTRODUCTION The Washington County Board of Commissioners adopted the first Economic Development Strategic Plan in May of 2014. Prior to this action, the County's role in economic development had been focused on providing robust county services to foster a vibrant local economy, including well-planned infrastructure, parks and open spaces, and maintaining a low tax rate. The 2014 Plan sought to establish a single point of contact for economic development within the County, update tax increment and abatement policies and incorporate economic development considerations in all of its decision making. It also sought to expand the County role in marketing. The Washington County Board of Commissioners determined that adding an economic development component to the Washington County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA)would enable the county to deliver programming on par with other counties in the metropolitan area. In 2016, the state legislature approved an amendmente HRA enabling the creation of EDA powers and renaming the Agency to the Washington unity Development Agency (CDA). The CDA offers several areas of assistance inclu ' �� , community development and economic development. This document is focused solely off the CDA's economic development related vision, goals, programs and resources. The CDA serves many economic development purposes, including monitoring changing trends, promoting economic development and ensuring the availability of programs and services for the diverse cities and townships within the County. The organizational structure and relationship between the Washington County Board of Commissioners and the Community Development Agency(CDA) is illustrated in Figure 1 on the next page. The County Board appoints the CDA Board and as shown, economic development is one of the CDA's responsibilities. The County Board is responsible for reviewing and approving the 2040 Comprehensive Plan for the County, which includes a chapter on economic competitiveness. The relationship between the Comprehensive Plan and this Economic Development Plan is illustrated in Figure 1. The County is required to complete a Comprehensive Plan every ten years per the Metropolitan Land Planning Act. While the economic competitiveness chapter was not a required element of the 2040 Plan, Washington County chose to include the chapter, realizing the benefits of planning for future economic development opportunities. The economic competitiveness chapter includes the following sections: • Existing Conditions: Washington County Employment, Employment Industries, Wages in Washington County, Unemployment, Workforce Development. • Key Industries/Centers of Employment • Opportunities and Challenges • Goals, Policies and Strategies The purpose of this Economic Development Plan is to set out specific programs and strategies aimed at responding to the needs of communities and townships over the next three years and to guide CDA budgeting. The plan also identifies strategies to continue to promote the county for business development. The plan serves as an ongoing tool to implement the County's 2040 Economic Competitiveness Chapter. 2 9 of 42 In tQ c !ccC7 W 0 o _3 7 � Z a 0 rt S 0 n O W � W V ZL 0 W, O o O c O 7 O .. W o N .� c 0 10 Q. Ra z 0 n v a m 0 0 o 3 0 o :r 0 s m w � m w lUOT42 VISION AND GOALS Economic Development Vision: The Washington County Community Development Agency helps communities across the county achieve their housing and economic development goals. The agency's economic development vision is:A thriving and competitive local economy provides family-supporting jobs, employment opportunities for our young people, and a tax base that supports critical public investments in our safety, schools, and quality of life. Guiding Principles: • The private sector is the lead that drives the economy. • The County will not duplicate or replace the work of cities or othe agencies. • The County supports a strong collaborative approach to economic d t. • Business attraction and business retention are essential policy objectives. • The diversity of the County requires an adaptable and open-minded approach • A deliberate, purposeful and strategic plan is required. Economic Development Goals: 1. Promote and market the quality of life, rich diversity and assets of the county. 2. Provide resources to help entrepreneurs get started and existing businesses grow. 3. Be a value-added partner to other public and private entities. 4. Find ways to help our businesses attract and retain talent and find ways to keep our working residents here in the County. 5. Promote strong infrastructure, multi-modal transportation and high-speed broadband. Strategic Partners Our local communities are our primary strategic partners. The CDA convenes a Work Group of community development professionals to advise the CDA on an ongoing basis regarding our economic development initiatives. In addition, the CDA works in collaboration with local chambers, state and regional professional associations, nonprofit organizations, utility companies, Greater MSP and public agencies. Our partnerships are crucial to our collaborative approach to economic development and to help communities accomplish their economic development goals. The goals and programs specified in this plan rely on these strategic partnerships. 4 11 of 42 I CORE PROGRAMS The Washington County CDA currently offers several successful core programs and services for economic development which are planned to continue over the next three years. The core programs were initiated in 2017, and in part implement the first three economic development goals. The core programs and services are detailed in this plan, along with targeted deliverables for their continued success. -_ Open to Business The Open to Business program in Washington County started in 2018 and is available through a partnership with the Metropolitan Consortium of _ TO BUSINESS Community Developers (MCCD). This program is a key strategy to help existing businesses grow and entrepreneurs get started. The program provides free, confidential business counseling to current and prospective entrepreneurs. The program's experienced consultants work with small business owners to access the technical assistance and financing options they need to succeed. Examples of services offered through the Open to Business program include: • Loans for both new/emerging and second-stage/growing businesses • Acquisition financing for real estate • Assistance with business plans, financial projections, and loan applications • Technical assistance with all aspects of business operations Between July 1, 2017 and January 1, 2019, the Open to Business program in Washington County served 250 clients and provided nearly$1,024,000 in loans, which leveraged an additional $1.4 million in outside investment. The program served business clients in a wide breadth of industries including service, retail, food, manufacturing, construction/real estate, health/fitness, professional/consulting and technology. The program also served businesses in several diverse communities.A breakdown of program metrics in 2017 -2018 is shown in Appendix A. A survey of initial participants was completed at the end of 2018 and revealed strong satisfaction ratings. 86% of respondents would recommend the program to others. Continued marketing of the program is needed however to increase awareness. An additional program through MCCD will be explored for potential implementation. "Working Your Business" is a cohort learning model for existing 2nd stage businesses and entrepreneurs who aspire to grow their business efficiently, sustainably and profitably—but are stuck in a cycle where the entrepreneur's energy and resources are consumed in maintaining their current business model. Working Your Business is for entrepreneurs who want to transition from working in their business to working on their business-and having that business work for them. It will introduce participants to proven tools and management frameworks and will allow participants to engage with and learn from a network of peers. Working Your Business will challenge participants to strategically and critically analyze their business, apply new tools, and create a plan for efficient, sustainable growth. Participants are established owner/operators who have moved out of the start-up phase and demonstrated operating stability but are experiencing limited growth in sales or assets. It is available to 5 12 of 42 entrepreneurs who received assistance from Open to Business to establish a business, and to any existing small business in a community that meets the target profile. Participants will receive continued one-on-one consulting with the advisor, learn from technical experts, and participate in peer-to-peer learning groups. The deliverables for the program over the next three years include: • Conduct at minimum five engagement events annually to increase awareness of program, in addition to routine agency marketing. • Initiate "Working Your Business" program by 2021. • Evaluate Open to Business program through the CDA annual community survey tool. Find Your Perfect Fit The Washington County CDA provides a connection between businesses and the 33 diverse and vibrant East Metro communities. The Find Your Perfect Fit progran1pientifies a location specialist for businesses hoping to locate somewhere within Washingnty. This program positions the CDA to be the first point of contact and a source of assistan it selectors and businesses. The CDA also has a strategic partnership with the Minneso a cial Association of Real Estate (MNCAR)to provide a searchable database of available ommercial parcels within Washington County. The number and diversity of communities in Washington County is of interest to site selectors and other business audiences because it means there will likely be a right fit for them. The CDA plays a crucial role in attracting these site selectors by sharing the benefits of East Metro and by assisting in matching business needs with available locations. The deliverables for the program over the next three years include: • Receive and distribute any new business inquiries obtained through partnership organizations to our local community partners and pass new listings on to the community where the listing is located. The CDA will work with communities when requested to respond to business inquiries. • Establish a dedicated website for economic development Website redesign: This is an ongoing effort to improve the functionality of the CDA website. The CDA will explore and maintain community microsite pages, tourism and chamber of commerce participation. • Evaluate the program through the CDA annual community survey tool. Predevelopment Finance Fund The Predevelopment Finance Fund was created by the CDA Board in 2018. The fund responds to requests for grant funding from cities and townships to help lower the cost burden of predevelopment technical studies. The Work Group noted that recent elimination of state and regional grant resources for these types of activities sharpened the need for CDA involvement. The purpose of the Predevelopment Finance Fund is to: • Increase the availability of shovel ready commercial and industrial sites • Provide opportunities for our existing businesses to stay and grow • Spur new development opportunities • Provide new opportunities for business diversity • Create increased commercial and industrial market values • Assist with redeveloping blighted properties 5 13 of 42 The CDA Board allocated a total of$150,000 annually towards the program for two tiers of grant funding. Each grant operates as a match to funds provided by the local jurisdiction. The small pool includes grants totaling less than $10,000 and the large pool includes grant amounts between $10,000-$40,000; however, the CDA Board may authorize a larger amount in unique circumstances. As of September 2019, eleven grant awards to six communities had been made. Approximately 320 acres have been evaluated for potential future commercial or industrial development. The deliverables for the program over the next three years include: • Seek comment from communities and streamline the funding application. • Assist communities to create 50 acres of developable commercial and industrial land annually. • Evaluate the Predevelopment Finance Fund program through the CDA annual community survey tool. Educational and Networking Programs The CDA is involved in a variety of educational and networking activities which help to increase visibility and make strategic connections within Washington County. The CDA is an active member/partner with the Washington County Workforce Development Board (WDB). The Workforce Development Board is composed of representatives from business, organized labor, and various public agencies. By participating, the CDA gains connections with local businesses and provides a conduit between business and labor. The CDA convenes the annual East Metro Development Summit with the assistance of the Minnesota Real Estate Journal (MREJ). Over the past few years, the CDA has organized a panel focused on highlighting successful development within Washington County. This is a collaborative effort with communities and helps to shine a light on economic development achievements and resources. The Washington County CDA will continue to work hand in hand with our local communities to attend, advertise, co-sponsor and market the county at various promotional events including, Minnesota Commercial Real Estate Association (MINICAR) Expo, MN Real Estate Journal Land Development Conference and MN Real Estate Journal Industrial Development Summit. We will co=sponsor three or more events per year and advertise and publish three articles per year in the MN Real Estate Journal monthly publication. Washington County CDA will continue the established partnerships with local area chambers of commerce including: Forest Lake Area Chamber, White Bear Lake Area Chamber, Stillwater Area Chamber, Oakdale Area Chamber, Woodbury Area Chamber, Cottage Grove Area Chamber of Commerce. CDA staff will attend five or more chamber events per year. The CDA will continue to maintain strong marketing partnerships with DEED, Connexus Energy, Great River Energy, Xcel Energy, MNCAR, Xceligent and Greater MSP on county and regional business attraction and retention efforts. The CDA assists communities and local area chambers of commerce with Business Retention & Enhancement(BR&E) visits, as requested. These visits are especially important for smaller communities with fewer staff and less access to funds for business retention. 7 14 of 42 The deliverables for education and networking over the next three years include: • Complete three MNREJ articles per year featuring communities, new initiatives, or other relevant topics that promote awareness of Washington Coun development opportunities. • Complete twelve MNREJ advertisements regarding develop men sin the county. • Sponsor three or more MNREJ events per year, which promote the commercial, industrial, and/or housing opportunities in the county. • Participate in the MINICAR Expo on an annual basis, working with county communities to target or promote specific development opportunities in the county. • Evaluate these activities through the CDA annual community survey tool. Community Technical Assistance The CDA provides community technical assistance in a variety of ways with their existing programs. Over the next three years the CDA will continue to support local community economic development and redevelopment efforts. The planned flexible revolving loan program is part of this initiative. The deliverables for the program over the next three years include: • Work with communities to develop and implement local economic development plans • Continue marketing for Outlot A in Red Rock Crossing Redevelopment Area in partnership with the Washington County Regional Rail Authority. • Evaluate the technical assistance through the CDA annual community survey tool. • Respond to community requests in a timely manner. NEW PROGRAMS Flexible Revolving Loan Program With the support and assistance of the Economic Development Work Group, the CDA explored several different new programs. The members were surveyed to determine which programs were the most relevant to their respective community and approximately how many times they expected to use a given program if it was available. The programs included a revolving loan fund for business expansion, a dilapidated building demolition loan program and a commercial building rehabilitation program. After completing this consideration, it was the consensus of the Working Group that what was really needed is an economic development loan program that is more flexible than some of the more targeted programs that were reviewed. The CDA staff will be developing policy to support the development and implementation of this tool. The deliverables for the program over the next three years include: The Washington County CDA will develop policies, explore options to fund, and implement the Flexible Loan Program including requesting approval for CDA Levy dollars. The county-wide Flexible Revolving Loan Program will begin in 2021 or sooner if funding becomes available. S 15 of 42 OTHER INITIATIVES Marketing, Branding and Business Recruitment As the convener of economic development within Washington County, the CDA is well equipped to respond to new opportunities as they arise. The following is a list of ongoing and upcoming opportunities that the CDA plans to explore. The CDA also aims to be nimble and strategic in responding to new opportunities. The deliverables for marketing, branding and business recruitment over the next three years include: • In collaboration with our city and township partners, the Washington County CDA will continue to strengthen and promote a business brand for Washington County emphasizes the county's many assets including or close proximity to St. Paul and MSP International Airport along with available land and talent. • Washington County CDA will continue to attend, advertise, co-sponsor and market at various promotional events including, Minnesota Commercial Real Estate Association (MNCAR) Expo, MN Real Estate Journal Land Development Conference and MN Real Estate Journal Industrial Development Summit. This will be ongoing. The MN Technology Corridor The CDA and regional community partners recently hired the Golden Shovel Agency to create a website aimed at branding and marketing the MN Technology Corridor for high technology businesses. The CDA will continue working to brand and market the corridor by leveraging broadband availability and available land with community partners. Transportation and Transit Opportunities In 2019, Washington County received a state grant to study implementation options as a result of the 2018 County Transit Study. The CDA will continue to work with Washington County regarding transportation and transit issues that will stimulate economic growth in the county. The deliverables for the program over the next three years include: • Washington County CDA staff will be an active participant in the Washington County Transportation Consortium. • Promote.multi-modal transportation, including transit, rail, and micromobility options, that stimulate economic growth in the county as part of the CDA education and networking initiatives. • Promote mobility management activities that connect individuals to goods, services, employment,job training, and other opportunities that support and stimulate economic engagement in the county. Workforce Development and Talent Attraction and Retention Workforce development: The CDA will improve partnerships with businesses, our K-12 schools, higher-education entities, Washington County Workforce Development and DEED to assist health care and manufacturing employers with attracting and retaining talent. 9 16 of 42 Washington County CDA will continue its existing partnership with Greater MSP, the MN Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) and the Washington County Workforce Development Board. The CDA will assist and partner whenever possible with local schools and higher education on talent attraction and retention efforts as well as assist the CareerForceMN.com career resources. The deliverables for the program over the next three years include: • The Economic Development Director will serve as an active member on the Washington County Workforce Development Board. • Whenever possible, the CDA will work with businesses, our K-12 schools, communities, Greater MSP, Century College, the State of Minnesota and other partners to recruit the types of businesses that will entice some of our residents to work closer to home. This could benefit both the highly trained and less trained working residents. The Washington County CDA will also work to provide our community partners with demographic data and labor and housing studies on an ongoing basis. EPA Brownfields Grant The'CDA submitted a $600,000 EPA Brownfields Assessment Grant in January 2019 to analyze and inventory potentially contaminated sites. In addition, Phase I and Phase II environmental site assessments would be conducted at brownfield sites located within Washington County as part of an effort to spur redevelopment and reuse of the brownfield sites. The CDA was not awarded this initial grant and plans to resubmit to the EPA within the next three years. The deliverables for the program over the next three years i 4*4440tr • Prepare and submit the grant application to EPA • Implement the EPA grant program on a county-wide basis 10 17 of 42 I SUMMARY The purpose of this Economic Development Plan is to set out specific steps aimed at responding to the needs of communities and townships over the next three years and to guide CDA budgeting. No matter the location, economic development is a benefit to the entire County. Our local communities are our primary strategic partners. The CDA will continue to work with communities and other public, private and non-profit organizations to accomplish the goals of this plan. Figure 2 below summarizes the alignment between the core programs and new initiatives with the plan goals. While being mindful of the Guiding Principles, the CDA will continue to evaluate these programs on a regular basis in conjunction with its partners and pursue amendments to this plan as necessary. Figure 2. Summary of Programs to Implement Plan Goals Economic 00.Ve*rrient Goals a r o a r • $ - - p i siversity and'agsets of the,county. . Program, d.6velopffi,ent website u Provide / / r Open. $ G prograrn, Wdfki�,gydur optrqprenem rs get surted and,existing, Businev§Progra utusinesses grow, r 0 r7!"PWWV0Wr lcommuWTeanical / /or vitol $ $ W$ tb, t - +, u # a o e U GI"f 'ioi i r 41 11 18 of 42 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The Economic Development Director along with CDA staff, has coordinated monthly meetings with the Economic Development Work Group who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the process and provide important local perspectives to the economic development plan update. Special thanks go out to the following Economic Development Work Group Memt�r th it participation and assistance in this 2016-2017 Economic Development Plan update: Patrick Casey—City Administrator, Forest Lake; Dan Undem—Assistant City Administrator, Apr Forest Lake; Bryan Bear—City Administrator, Hugo; Rachel Juba—Community Development Director, Hugo; Scott Neilson—City Administrator, Kevin Corbid—Washington County Deputy Administrator; Tom McCarty—City Administrator, Stillwater; Bill Turnblad—Community Development Director, Stillwater; Eric Johnson—City Administrator, Oak Park Heights;Adam Bell—City Administrator, Bayport; Ron Moorse—City Administrator, Afton;.Kristina Handt—City Administrator, Lake Elmo;-Ed Shukle—City Administrator, Landfall; Bart Fischer—City Administrator, Oakdale; Bob Streetar—Community Development Director, Oakdale; Janelle Schmitz—Assistant Community Development Director, Woodbury; Karl Batalden—Economic Development& Housing Coordinator, Woodbury; Deb Hill—City Administrator, Newport; Kevin Walsh—City Administrator, St. Paul Park; Christine Costello—Economic Development Director, Cottage Grove; Barbara Dacy—Executive Director, Washington County CDA; Melissa Taphorn —Deputy Executive Director, Washington County CDA; Chris Eng—Economic Development Director, Washington County CDA 12 19 of 42 APPENDIX A: OPEN TO BUSINESS SUMMARY REPORT: 7/1/2017 - 7/31/2019 In the first two years, the Washington County Open Client City(Business/Residence) to Business program served 247 client Alphabetically engagements broken out by year: Afton (1/0) Bayport (411) • 2017 (half year): 49 Cottage Grove (34135) • 2018: 125 Forest Lake (29/31) • 2019 (7/31/19 YTD): 73 Hastings (213) Hugo (15/14) Total Loans Approved: Lake Elmo (9/8) Lakeland (2/2) • 2017: 2 loans Lake St. Croix (110) $175,000 Open to Business Mahtomedi (617) Leveraged $1,790,000 total investment*. Marine on St. Croix (5/6) • 2018: 81oans Newport (112) $392,500 Open to Business Oakdale (17116) Leveraged $1,762,350 total investment. Oak Park Heights (2/2) • 2019 (7/31/19 YTD): 9 loans Scandia (13/13) $457,000 Open to Business St. Paul Park (312) Leveraged $2,241,041 total investment. Stillwater (61/58) Total: 19 loans White Bear Lake (2/1) $1,024,500 Open to Business Willernie (5/4) Leveraged $4,003,391 total investment. Woodbury (31131) *Total investment:02B, bank,credit union, borrower Client City(Business/Residence)—By Activity equity,other financing in the project. Stillwater (61/58) Cottage Grove (34/35) Woodbury (31/31) Forest Lake (29/31) Oakdale (17/16) Hugo (15/14) Scandia (13/13) Lake Elmo (9/8) Mahtomedi (6/7) Willemie (5/4) Marine on St. Croix (5/6) Bayport (4/1) St. Paul Park (3/2) Hastings (2/3) Lakeland (2/2) Oak Park Heights (2/2) White Bear Lake (2/1) Newport (1/2) Lake St. Croix (1/0) Afton (1/0) 13 20 of 42 Metro Cities News 12/20/19 Page 1 of 2 CMETROa4Member Login a IES MMPdW Mell{d Blies Home Metro Cities News About Us Meetings&Events Membership Advocacy Policies&Resources MAMA Retum to the bldg Upcoming Events Metro Cities News 12/20/19 by:Kimberly Ciarrocchi Thu Jan16,2020 Category:Newsletter Metro Cities Board of Directors Meeting Category:Metro Claes Board of Direaora Dec Thu Jan 23,2020 20 In This Issue: I MAMA Luncheon Category:MAMA �...... y,...... --.s moara of Directors Thu Feb 20,ZD20M� _ •M,....�_._. TAB Approves Release of Regional Solicitation Application Metro Cities Board of r2irectors Thank You and Happy Holidaysi Meetlna category:Metro Cale.Board of Directors Thu Feb 27,2020 I MAMA Luncheon �_�F Category:MAMA Thu Mar 19,2020 Metro Cities Board of Directors Me in Opening on Metro Cities Board of Directors caregery:MeV.,Cores Board of Direcrera View Full Calendar The Metro Cities Board of Directors will have an open Board seat in January 2020 that will require appointment by the Board.The Board consists of 19 city officials,and members serve two,two-year Our Tweets terms.The Board is comprised of elected and appointed officials and its composition is required to be balanced by city size and population.The Board is responsible for overseeing Metro Cities'budget, Tweets by MetroCItIesMN strategic goals and legislative priorities,and makes appointments to the TAB and TAC.Interested candidates are asked to provide a(1)resume,(2)cover letter and to complete this(3) Candidates may also provide letters of reference. For more information on Metro Cities,please visit our website at .ww.r cttiesmn.orr or contact Patricia Nauman,Executive Director,at 651-215.4002 or 4atriciagpmetrocitiesrmt.ora.Please submit Information and the completed application to Kimberly Ciarrocchi at iberiy0metrocitresmn.t. by Tuesday,January 7,2020. TAB Approves Release of Regional Solicitation Application The Transportation Advisory Board(TAB)accepted public comments to the 2020 Regional Solicitation and approved its release this week.The Regional Solicitation is the method by which federal transportation dollars from the Surface Transportation Block Grant Program and Congestion Mitigation Air Quality program are allocated within the metro area.The funding is distributed among roadway, transit and travel demand management,and bicycle and pedestrian projects. As part of its recommendation to release the solicitation,the TAB approved changes that include increasing the maximum award for a multi-use trails and bicycle facilities from$4 million to$5.5 million,adopted a$10 target for bridge projects,and include the need for transit applicants to certify that they will provide operating funding for projects beyond three years.The TAB will develop a new scoring method for Arterial Bus Rapid Transit(ABRT)and other Bus Rapid Transit(BRT)projects for the 2022 solicitation. To view the public comment report,click The power point presentation presented to TAB can be viewed .To view the draft Regional Solicitation Application,click here. The Regional Solicitation will now be forwarded to the Metropolitan Council for final approval. 21 of 42 https://www.metrocitiesmn.org/index.php?option=cont dailyplanetblog&view--entry&ye... 12/20/2019 Metro Cities News 12/20/19 Page 2 of 2 Questions?Please contact Steve Huser at 651-215-4003,or stevenOmetrocitiesmn.ora. Thank You and Happy Holidays! As we look back at 2019 and forward to 2020,we want to pause and thank each of our members for placing your trust in Metro Cities each year to work on your behalf at the Capitol and Metropolitan Council.Thank you for joining committees,attending meetings,testifying at the Legislature,and all the other ways you show your interest in the issues that matter to metropolitan area cities.We look forward to continuing to work with you and for you in 20201 Have a wonderful holiday season and a Happy New Year! Share this post: Metro Cities(Association of Metropolitan Municipalities) y, 145 University Ave W,Suite 125 St.Paul,MN 55103 651-215.4000 Back to top A powered by Q Helini etGldts 22 of 42 https://www.metrocitiesmn.org/index.php?option=com dailyplanetblog&view=entry&ye... 12/20/2019 Eric Johnson From: Mary Mccomber <marymccomber@aol.com> Sent. Saturday, December 14,2019 10:03 AM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: Restoring City Rights in an Era of Preemption For weekly notes —Original Message--- From: National League Of Cities <news@nlc.org> To: marymccomber<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Sat, Dec 14, 2019 8:05 am Subject: Restoring City Rights in an Era of Preemption View in browser LCNAI IONAL LEAGUE a t �. V m Restoring City Rights in an Era of Preemption Every day, city leaders are working to improve the health and welfare of their communities and the people who live there. But instead of partnership and support, many cities in recent years have confronted state politics and interference. 1 23 of 42 NATIONAL CONGRESSIONAL7-11 MAR 202 NLC LEAGUE OF CITIES CITY CONFERENCE MAKE YOURVOICE HEARD »r eARN raoRE« u. \\, How Boston Helped Residents Get Bigger Tax ' Returns y' Cities must be at the forefront of providing financial M _ empowerment and tax equity strategies that include Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and credit building at tax time. Rail Resolutions for 2020: Collaboration, Safety and Quiet At City Summit, NLC's Transportation and Infrastructure Services Committee came together to set six resolutions for 2020. Legal Considerations for Carbon Mitigation by Cities The Sabin Center for Climate Change Law seeks to partner with cities to understand the legal challenges facing cities in crafting and adopting climate-friendly laws and policies. N@WS Why Car-Free Streets Will Soon Be the Norm CityLab - December 12, 2019 When can a sidewalk be a home for the homeless? 2 24 of 42 Gulf Today- December 12, 2019 When Will Blockchain Technology Be a Game-Changer? Satoshi Nakamoto Blog - December 10, 2019 Announcements Webinar: Kickoff for Automated Solar Permitting Platform Want to get instant approval for residential rooftop projects? There'll soon be a platform for that. Join us for a webinar this Tuesday, December 17, to kickoff SolarAPP, a national initiative to streamline permitting. Register now. Webinar: Earned Income Tax Credit In Your City Learn more about the EITC, non-predatory tax services that keep more money in resident's pockets, new ways to raise the visibility of the EITC during the tax season and more. Join us, Thursday, December 19 at 2 p.m. Register now. Nominations Open: City Cultural Diversity Awards Celebrate diversity. NLC is currently accepting nominations for the City Cultural Diversity Awards, a celebration of America's communities and how they support and promote diversity. Showcase how your city, town or village celebrates the many aspects of diversity. Deadline closes January 24, 2020. Submit your application today. Job Postings City Manager -- Hutchinson, Kansas Sustainability and Resiliency Officer -- Tampa, Florida Executive Director -- Can be based anywhere in state, Nevada LEANX 'N,0k -1WGFCfM5 10 -0 3 25 of 42 Eric Johnson From: Mary Mccomber <marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Wednesday, December 18, 2019 7:54 AM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd:Congress Aims to Stop a Repeat Partial Government Shutdown - Federal Advocacy Newsletter - Week of December 17 For weekly notes -----Original Message---- From: National League of Cities <advocacy@nlc.org> To: marymccomber<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Tue, Dec 17, 2019 4:41 pm Subject: Congress Aims to Stop a Repeat Partial Government Shutdown-Federal Advocacy Newsletter Week of December 17 If this message is not displaying properly,please view the online version. FEDERALNATdONAL NLC OF ClTiLS ADVOCACY NEWSLETTER Congress Aims to Stop a Repeat Partial Government Shutdown Congress is on track to approve all 12 annual spending bills this week, avoid a government shutdown, and fully fund the government before the holiday recess. The 2020 appropriations bills are being packaged in two"minibus" bills, which should allow Congress to speed up consideration and approval. Local Funding Increases and Policy Priorities in the Minibus Packages Next Steps on Addressing PFAS Contamination in Drinking Water 1 26 of 42 t Ar Local and federal leaders need to take comprehensive action to low, address the growing concerns around PFAS in drinking water. Federal Action Continues ion, Rail Resolutions for 2020: Collaboration, Safety and Quiet As the federal government looks to reauthorize rail programs in 2020, local leaders want to showcase what our communities need from Congress. Join NLC's Rail Resolutions SNAPSHOTAll • - TEAM IN ACTION • If you are a city leader with rail in your community, or you share NLC's"safety first' message, we hope you will consider signing onto NLC's 2020 Rail Priorities letter! Fill out this form before December 21 st. If you have any challenges or questions, email advocacy@nlc.org. The next Federal Advocacy Newsletter is scheduled for January 7. Legal Considerations for Carbon Mitigation by Cities The Sabin Center for Climate Change Law seeks to partner with cities to understand the legal challenges facing America's communities when crafting and adopting climate-friendly laws and policies. Five Types of Challenges For Cities Wd2 27 of 42 ANNOUNCEMENTS Webinar I Road to Zero Coalition The Road to Zero Coalition wants to ensure members have the most up-to-date information from organizations across the nation that are working to eliminate preventable roadway deaths. This monthly webinar will highlight successful programs, provide updates from Road to Zero grant winners, showcase new research and provide important information about how to approach transportation safety. Register Now for the December 18 Webinar NEWS Cities Team up to Address Food, Housing Insecurity Among College Students Efficient Gov- December 4, 2019 Why One City is Prioritizing Financial Empowerment Route Fifty- December 6, 2019 Six Ways To Become A More Sustainable City Giving Compass- December 9, 2019 Why Car-Free Streets Will Soon Be the Norm CityLab- December 10, 2019 House panel votes for 2-year SALT repeal The Bond Buyer- December 11, 2019 New federal AV legislation under fire for inadequate safety provisions Smart Cities Dive- December 12, 2019 A New Look at How States Block Local Laws in Areas Ranging From Guns to Taxes Route Fifty- December 12, 2019 Why Presidential Candidates Don't Address Urban Issues Governing- December 13, 2019 3 28 of 42 NLi Ccwcnm 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 I ©2019 NLC, All Rights Reserved Powered by Higher Logic 4 29 of 42 op City of Oak Park Heigk& FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 20, 2019 Press Contact: Eric Johnson,City Administrator City of Oak Park Heights, MN eaiohnson@cltvofoakparkheiehts.com 651-439-4439 Mary McComber Appointed to Serve on National League of Cities' Transportation and Infrastructure Services Committee WASHINGTON — December 20th, 2019 — Mary McComber, Mayor, City of Oak Park Heights, MN., has been appointed to the National League of Cities (NLC) 2020 Transportation and Infrastructure Services (TIS) federal advocacy committee. This committee has the lead responsibility for developing NLCs federal policy positions on issues involving transportation, including planning,funding, safety and security of public transit,streets and highways, aviation, railroads and ports. The appointment was announced by NLC President Joe Buscaino, councilmember, Los Angeles, California. As a committee member, Mayor McComber will play a key role in shaping NLC's policy positions and advocate on behalf of America's cities and towns before Congress,with the administration and at home. "NLC's federal advocacy committees ensure policymakers in Washington understand the most pressing issues facing local communities," said Joe Buscaino, councilmember of Los Angeles, California, and president of the National League of Cities (NLC). "I am proud to have Mayor McComber join NLC's Transportation and Infrastructure Services committee on behalf of her residents. Together, with a team of local officials from across the country, we will strengthen the federal-local partnership, and ultimately create stronger cities,towns and villages." The leadership of this year's committee will consist of Chair Dan Fowler, Councilman, Kansas City, Missouri, Vice Chair Krisanna Clark-Endicott, Councilor, Redmond, Oregon, and Vice Chair Elaine Clegg, Council President Pro Tem, Boise, Idaho. For more information on NLCs federal advocacy committees, visit: www.nic.orL,/advocacy/committees. The Notional League of Cities(NLQ is dedicated to helping city leaders build better communities.NLC is a resource and advocate for 19,000 cities,towns and villages,representing more than 218 million Americans. www nlc.ora 30 of 42 NLCNATIONAL ' LEAGUE OF CITIES 2020 Transportation and Infrastructure Services (TIS) Committee Roster Chair Vice Chair Vice Chair Dan Fowler Krisanna Clark-Endicott Elaine Clegg Councilman Councilor Council President Pro Tem Kansas City, MO Redmond,OR Boise, ID David Arreola, Commissioner,City of Gainesville, FL Robert Bauman,Alderman, City of Milwaukee,WI Dan Besse, Council Member Southwest Ward, City of Winston-Salem, NC Michael Brown, Mayor, City of Grand Forks, ND Charlene Bybee, Councilmember,Ward 4, City of Sparks, NV Wally Campbell, Council Member,City of Goodyear,AZ Krisanna Clark-Endicott, Councilor, City of Redmond,OR Elaine Clegg, Council President Pro Tem, City of Boise City, ID 31 of 42 Phyllis Cleveland,Council Member, City of Cleveland,OH Christopher Constant,Assembly Member District 1, Municipality of Anchorage,AK Rodney Craig, Mayor,Village of Hanover Park, IL James Crain,Alderman, City of Grandview, MO Mike Dafney, Mayor, City of Alliance, NE Karen Darch,Village President,Village of Barrington, IL Bryant DeLong, Council Member,Ward 1, City of North Kansas City, MO Mary Dennis, Mayor,City of Live Oak,TX William Droste, Mayor, City of Rosemount, MN Bruce Duke, Councilmember, City of Kettering, OH Brandon Elefante, Council Member District 8, City and County of Honolulu, HI Goran Eriksson,Vice Mayor, City of Culver City, CA Scott Eudey,Vice Mayor, City of Broken Arrow, OK Sollie Flora, Councilmember,City of Mission, KS Dan Fowler, Councilman, City of Kansas City, MO DeDreana Freeman, Council Member,Ward 1,City of Durham, NC Michelle Gomez, Mayor, City of Tamarac, FL John Goodhouse, Council President, City of Tigard,OR Mary Hamann-Roland, Mayor, City of Apple Valley, MN Bob Hart,City Manager, City of Corinth,TX Richard Hayman, Chief of Staff, City of Burton, MI Bill Heidemann, Mayor, City of Corinth,TX Brian Johnson, Mayor,City of Kennedale,TX Dan Kealey, Councilmember, City of Burnsville, MN Kate Kruller, Council Member, Position 6, City of Tukwila,WA Peter Kwon, Council Member Position 3, City of SeaTac,WA Theresa Lafer, Council Member, Borough of State College, PA 32 of 42 Angela Lawson,Council Member At Large, City of Aurora, CO Michael Leszcz,Council Member At Large/Council President, City of Laurel, MD Patricia Lockwood, Mayor Pro-Tem,City of Fenton, MI Tammy Maurer, Council Member,City of Centennial, CO Scott Maxwell,Vice Mayor Pro Tem District 1,City of Lake Worth, FL Wes Mays, City Council, City of Coppell,TX John McAlister, Councilmember, City of Mountain View, CA Valarie McCall,Chief of Communications, Government&International Affairs, City of Cleveland, OH Mary McComber, Mayor, City of Oak Park Heights, MN Doris McConnell, Deputy Mayor, Position 4, City of Shoreline,WA James McDonald,vice mayor,Village of Pinecrest, FL Tim McGallian,Vice-Mayor, City of Concord, CA William McLeod, Mayor,Village of Hoffman Estates, IL Mark Mitchell, Mayor, City of Tempe,AZ Denise Mitchell, Council Member District 4, City of College Park, MD Suzie Nakasian,City Council Member, City of Northfield, MN Garret Nancolas, Mayor, City of Caldwell, ID Sherri Neil, Intergovernmental Affairs Manager, City of Portsmouth,VA John Noak,Village President,Village of Romeoville, IL Barbara Odom-Wesley, Council member, City of Arlington,TX Heather O'Loughlin, Commissioner,City of Helena, MT Linda Omobien, Council Representative At-Large, City of Akron,OH Glenn Otto, Council Member At-Large, City of Huber Heights, OH Matt Pacifico, Mayor,City of Altoona, PA Melanie Pia na, Mayor-Elect, City of Ferndale, MI Belinda Ray, Council Member,City of Portland, ME 33 of 42 Timothy Rippe, Council Member, City of Forest Grove, OR Hazelle Rogers, Mayor,City of Lauderdale Lakes, FL David Sander, Mayor, City of Rancho Cordova, CA Jarrett Smith,Council Member Ward 5, City ofTakoma Park, MD Denny Spinner, Mayor, City of Huntingburg, IN Rodney Storm, City Administrator, City of Blair, NE Marvin Sutton, Councilmember, City of Arlington,TX SpencerThibodeau, Council Member District 2, City of Portland, ME Brandon Todd, Council Member,Ward 4,City of Washington, DC Wade Troxell, Mayor, City of Fort Collins,CO Kathy Turley,Council Member, City of Centennial, CO Jason Weaver, Mayor, City of Screven, GA Michael Wojcik, City Council Member, City of Rochester, MN Derrick Wood, Mayor,Town of Dumfries,VA Janice Zahn,Councilmember, Position 5, City of Bellevue,WA Gwynn Zakov, Municipal Policy Advocate,Vermont League of Cities and Towns,VT 34 of 42 12/14/2019 Constant Contact:Emails:Customize Your Campaign Having trouble viewing this email? i" _ HI,just a reminder that you're receiving this email because you have expressed an Interest in MAOSC.Don't forget to add cap@maosc.org to your address book so we'll be sure to land in your Inbox! You may unsubscribe if you no longer wish to receive our emails. Minnesota Association of Small Cities Newsletter State, Local& Federal Updates for Minnesota rs Small Cities December 16, 2019 Notes From the Executive Director ... download o text Happy December, Minnesota Small City Leaders! - version of this newslefter here 'Tis the Season-to gear up for the coming legislative session-and I've been doing a lot of that, by holding many key meetings on topics such as Water Standards, Broadband,Transportation, Building Fees-and more. Earlier this month the state budgetary agency, MMB, released the QBportumttes November budget forecast. For those unaware,the state budget forecast(s) State News are what the governor and legislature use to determine how much money is Federal News available to spend.The MMB and economists review state, national and global data to predict the costs and revenues affecting the state budget. 1 This current forecast shows a projected surplus of$1.33 billion for the 20- 21 biennium.This increases the amount of money available for the *Committed to providing legislature to allocate.It also raises the debt capacity that the state could small cities in Minnesota a use for bonding projects.That said,don't expect a$3 billion bonding bill. strong voice and consistent representation at the state level,in the MN Legislature. As session approaches I know there will be a number of issues that we are 'Dedicated to providing a fighting for(city streets funding,for example)and others that we oppose network for Member-Cities, (such as limiting city authority).City leaders'voices are ALWAYS helpful in fostering and facilitating these efforts.To limit the amount of scrambling that is needed when communication and advocacy to enhance the "issues"arise,I would love to have a quick list I can reference when we quality of life that keeps our need your help.To that end,we have created this very short, 2-min small sties thriving. questionnaire for you to complete at your earliest opportunity.Thank you! It is because of your MN Small Cities' Leg! !a 'v gaggment Qupsdonnaire membership that MAOSC can continue its ongoing efforts to engage with state Mark your calendars now for the upcoming MN Small Cities'Annual aandyffed our�el�icy makers, 'Day at the Capitol'on Wednesday, i et..,���� r�: 26. Our Annual Legislative Reception will follow,that evening and will take place at the e,�,�c,� $,u per,,, Capitol Ridge Event Center(the old Kelly Inn,for those of you who have 9J. o1Z.$ y been around awhile).Stay tuned for additional details! As always,Thank Youfor the work you do for your communities and your support of MAOSC.If at any time you have concerns, issues or even simple suggestions for improvement-feel free to email me at cap- maosc.org. President HAPPY HOLIDAYS to you and yours! M 8..1-k-3-1':. Vice President Sincerely, Shannon Morter Treasurer 4000 Joel Young Secretary Cap O'Rourke,Executive Director Dave En,gsourn fyhd)amoi Harrimes I°imeiy Announcements & Opportunities James Joy Jacob Kolander haps://ui.constantcontacLcom/mavmaptemd/8mail/create?copyCampaign=55b83c od-24d8-4c2e-8699-cl d59i d626a9 1/5 35 of 42 12/14/2016 Constant Contact:Emails:Customize Your Campaign There are several time-sensitive opportunities for you this month, in order of deadlines: Jeff Thornpst- 1.Cities over 500 population in Greater Minnesota are eligible for Andy welt Workforce Housing Gr n . RFP application deadline is Jan. 10�. ptcs!' fQt-n7 2.State hosts regional Rural Racial E MitV Summit: MN Attorney ��3 Ctnn ar7 MACK's General,Keith Ellison,will be the keynote speaker at a day-long Rural Racial Equity Summit on Jan.20,at the Fergus Falls campus of Minnesota Thank You to State Community and Technical College.The summit is open to the public, Our Sponsors! including local government officials. 3.Housing-grants bonds and tax credits:The 2020 Housing Tax Gold Spw-w�Qi Credits(HTC)second round of applications are currently open with a final submission deadline of Jan.31. roximate App ry$529,618 in tax credits are available: $103,540 in the Rural Development/Small Project set-aside(RD set-aside)and$426,078 in the unified pool.These funds were carried over from Round One. Silver Sponsor- 4. irirport Economic Impact Study: Local Economic calculator training registration is now open for half-day training and summary reviews of the recently completed Airport Economic Impact Study.Opportunities for remote participation webinars are available on Feb.5 and Feb.12,as well as six location-based events available across the state set for February.The training is designed for anyone involved in economic development.Qjgk here for free Eggistration. 6.In preparation for the 2020 RFP/2021 HTC Round 1, Minnesota Housing will host an RFP and Technical Assistance kickoff event on Feb. ,13 at Minnesota Housing in St. Paul-with remote access Go-To Webinar tele- conferencing available for the morning session-followed by breakout sessions in the afternoon. Registration and materials are expected soon. Sign up for the Minnesota Housing's eNews to receive timely event information. Housing Infrastructure Bonds(HIBs), loans, program guidelines and tips for successful applications will be among the topics covered. 6.Census 2020 grants available to cities,orrganizations:MAOSC has been working with the State Demographic Center for over a year,to - _ help ensure complete counts in all small cities across the state.Help with costs incurred are now available to cities and community organizations assisting with the 2020 Census count.The$750 grants will be available until funding runs out. Submitting your application as soon as possible is advised. 8.Clean Water opoortunit!es offered:The Clean Water Partnership (CWP)program from the MPCA offers zero-interest loans to local governments for implementing nonpoint-source best management practices and other activities that target the restoration and protection of water resources.Applications are m with loan awards Vince Spinner of up to$2 million.The MPCA is also providing new resources to cities to ,ckridge Grindal Naue, Vashingtcr- aSSISt In ci g chloride pollution, including a guide for developing_A water softener rebate progEM,and model ordinances to regulate deicers. Climate change is on the 2020 agenda:Climate change initiatives will have a central role in the 2020 legislative session based on the recent https://ui.constW*qargact.com/mavmap/emcf/emaiVasate?copyCampaign=55b83cod-24d8-4c2e-8699-cld5gld626ag 215 12/14/2019 Constant Contact:Emails:Customize Your Campaign efforts of Gov.Tim Walz,who established a 15-member Climate Change Subcabinet on Dec.2. Some elements of the initiative are yet to come into public view, but Walz has already acted on dean-air transportation proposals, including bolstering electric-vehicle charging infrastructure and state clean car standards. Municipal utilities Dutbng_EV charging on the map in southern Minn * As e-vehicle use gam,chasing Mations outside Twin Cities lag Minnesota farmers air stresses:At the end of one of the most difficult years for state farmers many expressed concerns to state ag chief.A number of programs both old and new that aim to assist farmers are seeing a surge in need. National Guard lives lost: Small communities are grieving the deaths of three Minnesota National Guard soldiers who died in a Black Hawk helicopter crash earlier this month. Lost in crash were were Chief Warrant Officer 2 Charles P. Nord, 30,of Perham; Chief Warrant Officer 2 James A. Rogers Jr., 28,of Winsted; and Sgt. Kort M. Plantenberg,28, of Avon. Transportation Coalition:An effort to bring together advocates for a stronger transportation system in support of a substantial state funding package has been underway in recent months.As a member of the Minnesota Transportation Alliance, MAOSC has been active in helping shape a proposal designed to get bipartisan support that includes adequate,stable funding for all small cities. Ash borer disease Rreadling less-quickly than expggW:It has been a decade since Emerald ash borer(EAB)was detected in Minnesota and experts are expressing a bit of relief that the fast-spreading disease hasn't been as devastating as had been originally expected. Rural Health Care-Snriggfield hospital to close:With the recent announcement of the planned closure of the Springfield Hospital by Mayo Clinic Health System,renewed focus on maintaining quality of service across mN will likely draw 2020 legislative session attention. FEDERAL News President Trump forms task farce on missing and murdered Indigenous women; Minnesota tribal leaders attended Minnesota delegation ura D partment of Transportation to provide more trans rencv into grant selection g2 The DECEMBER 2019 Federal Legislative URdate from our DC Lobbyist, Vince Spinner,at Lockridge Grindal Nauen is a long one this month and includes the following topics: • House/Senate Appropriators Near End of FY2020 Negotiations • Klobuchar Leads Letter Promoting Rural Broadband • Smith Continues Push for Rural Health Care with Pair of Bills • Impeachment Trial Delays Release of Senate Calendar • Legislation Introduced for Volunteer First Responder Housing • Senate Committee holds hearing on PILT and SRS • Funding of Land Water Conservation Fund Passes Committee • USMCA Moving Forward with House Democratic Support • SALT Bill Passes Ways and Means Committee • Stauber, Senators Announce$2.1 Million for Little Falls Airport • Peterson Re-Introduces Promoting Rural Exports Act • Peterson Introduces Bill to Help Rural Hospitals https://ui.consl"gx act.com/mavmap/emcf/emaiitcreate?copyCampaign=55b83ced-24d8,4c2e-8699-c1d5gld626a9 3/5 12/14/2019 Constant Contact:Emails:Customize Your Campaign • House Passes Anti-Robocall Legislation • House Demss Restart Talks of Infrastructure Package • USDA Announces$550 Million for High-Speed Broadband • USDA Invests in Expansion of Rural Education and Health Care • USDA Invests in Drinking Water Quality,Wastewater Mgmnt • USDA Finalizes Rule Expanding SNAP Work Requirements • USDA Announces FY20 Water&Waste Disposal Loans/Grants • HUD Requests Comments on Eliminating Barriers to Public Housing A4�''� � Shorts Minnesota Association of Small Cities "Small Cities'Shorts"are brief yet noteworthy items featuring MAOSC member cities and officials.Readers can submit potential Small Cities'Shorts or other feature ideas by emailing Lynda at osc.com, Otter Tail seeks state legM funds for Perham to Pelican trail Rush City Council votes to gartidgate in MN Green Cities Spring Valley:Affordable housing leads to economic vitality, Nevis: Muskie Park pr,,ject moving forward Chatfield: Legislators review request for Arts Center bonding Oak Park Heights: Road realignment funds requested Henderson:Joint ownership of ww lift station terminated Olivia:Trail elan moves forward Barnum:Census takers sougbJ Infrastructure grants authorized for Hamburg_,Red Lake Falls Springfield: Demolition loan gra Women-owned businesses look to reinvent McIntosh, MN Franklin firefighters want old bridgg_rel2lacx d FEATURED CORPORATE MEMBER MN Small C&M'Coraorate Membersare instrumental to our efforts and we appredate them very muds The Caraaz&Member Propramis offeried as a valuable msource to our Member Obes and provides a great opportunity for local government and buslnessw to share was to help make their ciommunNes stronger.Please consWw doing business w!M M40S1Cs Corporate Members and encourage other businezWoiganizabons you regularly work with, to consider joining the program! This month's featured Corporate Member is: Community& Economic Development Associates(CEDA) CEDA is a 501c3 non-profit specializing in economic and community project development or coordination, grant writing/administration,city administrative services,small business development center counseling, project affiliation,and other support services designed to assist small cities in the regeneration of rural America. CEDA helps cities,counties,or other CEDA organizations with specific,one-time initiatives, such as those already listed, and/or under the CommunityandEcoramic CommunitySupport e=rror,CEDA staff can engage long term, helping to facilitate business,housing and community development,conduct community or business surveys,offer on-site business counseling,provide project coordination,and more-depending on your community's needs. https://ui.conq"fq"ct.com/mavmaplemcf/email/create?copyCampaign=55b83ccd-24d8-4c2e-8699-c1 d59l d626a9 4/5 12/14/2019 Constant Contact:Emails:Customize Your Campaign To learn more about the organization,its programs and how they may be a valuable resource for your city, please visit CEDA's Website! THANK YOU VERY MUCH to CEDA-and to all of our Corporate Members-for your ongoing support of MN Small Cities! We appreciate and welcome your feedback on these Newsletters. Please let us know if you've heard any information which might be beneficial to other Minnesota Small Cities members(such as a Regional or City or State communication, notice or press release).Send to lyndaCafmaosc.org. Thank you! Cap O'Rourke MAOSC Executive Director www.MAOSGoro rQROMAOSC.om 612-483-1863 MAOSC, 145 University West, St. Paul, MN 55103 SafeUnsubscribeTm {recipient's email} Forward this email I Update Profile I About our service provider Sent by cap0maosc.org in collaboration with cornwntar#Xt /AI: Try email marketing for free today! https://ui.cons act.com/mavmap/emcf/emaiVereate?copyCampaign=55b83ced-24d6-4c2e-8699-c1d59ld626a9 5/5 Eric Johnson From: Mary Mccomber<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Friday, December 20, 201910:23 AM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: Legislative Update - December 19, 2019 For weekly notes ----Original Message----- From: Rep. Shelly Christensen<rep.shelly.christensen@public.govdelivery.com> To: marymccomber<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Thu, Dec 19, 2019 4:42 pm Subject: Legislative Update-December 19, 2019 Havma trouble viewing this email?View it as a Web npne Shelly Christensen f1ir�NE�RA HOI��E OF N�FNCATIYfE6i Dear Neighbors, As we prepare for the 2020 Legislative Session to start in February, Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) released their latest economic and budget forecast for our state. This forecast, while only a prediction, is incredibly important as we begin to plan for Minnesota's future. Though Minnesota's current budget balance is projected at $1.3 billion, inflation alone (which is not factored in) is as high as $1 billion. Throw in uncertain federal trade policies, an excess of unfilled jobs, and possible economic slowdown, it becomes clear that even if Minnesota's economy is currently doing well, there's more to do to ensure Minnesota stays strong in the coming years. Future budget deficits are a reality, which is why we need to make responsible investments in the things Minnesotans value, like world-class schools, affordable health care, workforce development, and improved infrastructure. These are the priorities that secure a prosperous future for our state and community. As far as improved infrastructure goes, an important piece of legislation that we'll be working on next year will be the 2020 Bonding Bill. This bill will be made up of proposed infrastructure and community projects from all over Minnesota. The House and Senate Capital Investment committees have spent the interim traveling the state, visiting projects that will be considered in the bonding bill. i 40 of 42 SEEING I RUCTURE NEED. THANQ There are a number of important projects, but the much-needed updates along Highway 36 will be my priority. You can read my previous update for more information on our community's pitch to the House Capital Investment Committee. Keep an eye out for an upcoming town hall we'll be planning for these transportation infrastructure proposals. For more information on our recent budget forecast, you can brush up on the specifics at MMB's website, or read MPR's coverage of the forecast here. Climate & Energy Community Discussion This last week saw a lot of great news in our consolidating efforts to take on climate change at the Minnesota Capitol. After thousands of students marched across the state for action on climate change, my colleagues and I in the Minnesota House formed the Climate Action Caucus. Recently, members of the Minnesota Senate have done the same, and Governor Walz has established the Climate Change Subcabinet, as well as an advisory council on climate change. It'll take bold, innovative solutions at all levels of government to find clean energy solutions, and I'm inspired by the momentum we've built up going into 2020. Our work in the House this fall included informational hearings on how climate change impacts various policy areas, including transportation, housing, and public health. Our next meeting will cover the impact of climate change on Minnesota's environment. You can find more information on the Climate Action Caucus, including updates and a meeting schedule, on our website. We also have a Climate & Energy Community Discussion scheduled for Stillwater on Thursday, January 9, from 6-7:30pm at the Stillwater Public Library. I'll be hosting this will the 100% Campaign, and we'll be joined by Rep. Jamie Long, the vice chair of the House Energy and Climate Division= and Rev. Buff Grace of Minnesota Interfaith Power & Light. Be sure to mark your calendars and join us for this discussion on how we can build an equitable clean energy future for Minnesota. 2 41 of 42 State Representative&Se#Iy Christensen Climate & Energy CommunityDiscussion Januwy 4.6 7:30pm t==U1§ StNlw~Pubk L" xreaas��, Suv«+r�iwwwssaet �Ilwe�wwMMwlwrr4w�1 z ^a s.rrM.7 iir R�t1M1117w�*+ "No Child Left Inside" Grant Application The new "No Child Left Inside" initiative is a grant program that gets more children outdoors. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources received an overwhelming response for Phase I with more than 400 applications, and a new wave of Phase II grants are now available. Preference is given to projects that propose new and innovative ways to serve youth who have limited outdoor opportunities. The grants are open to public entities and nonprofit organizations serving youth. Applications are due by 2pm, Thursday, Jan. 9. You can find more information and apply here_ Stay In Touch! The holiday season can be a hectic time of year, but I hope you enjoy the time to celebrate with family, friends, and neighbors. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or comments you may have, the 2020 Legislative Session is right around the corner! You can reach me at rep.shelly.christensen(@-house.mn or (651) 296-4244. Sincerely, Representative Shelly Christensen 3 42 of 42