The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink Aboutweekly Notes-December 3rd 2021 - reduced CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS—WEEKLY NOTES for: December 3",2021 TO: City Council Members& Staff " FROM: Eric Johnson City Administrator Zoning&Development Items: 1. No new applications have been received. 2. Lakeview Ambulance has inquired as to their ability to stay at the former Fury Site through—possibly 12/2023 as their planned construction on Curve Crest—(not the planned hospital site) is delayed.There are no additional zoning actions that would be required for this timeline as their use is generally consistent with the B-2 Zoning—see our letter dated in July 2021-enclosed. 3. The City's purchase agreement with the potential buyer of the"Bell Property"has expired and the buyer has—essentially withdrawn indicating that his costs would be too high for such development of three single family lots.Something to discuss a bit more after the first of the year—perhaps in a goal setting session. 4. Enclosed is a summary of the SWOT (Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunities & Threats) exercise undertaken by the KING PLANT ADVISORY PANEL as well as some general responses by member as to possible future concepts. The Panel will continue its work in December with further refinements and discussions----and with a plan to possibly hold a Worksession with the Council in January or Feb. COVID-19 Matters: • This is the Governor's- PORTAL https://mn.gov/covidl9—Many documents/Exec. Orders can be found. Washington County has initiated a County Dashboard containing more localized COVID-19 Impacts and rates LINK->>HERE. Other Items: • Chief Hansen has provided a Police Activity Report for November 2021 • Enclosed are some DRAFT 2022 Utility Rate studies from Betty Caruso—This will also be on the 12/14 City Council Agenda for discussion. No increase in water or storm sewer rates is proposed—but some increase in Sanitary rates may be necessary. • Tennis Sanitation has requested a 4%increase in(non-Disposal) rates for 2022 Oak Park Heights-Current Agreement which would result in total costs of$227,457 plus some increases in"extra bags" #of OPH from$2.00 to$2.08 and construction debris per yard from$20.00 to$20.28.The SIZE 2022 RATES UNITS Total 2022 Costs current contract does not allow such a rate increases as proposed- instead it is Small $ 13.00 103 $ 16,068.00 tied — as a request—to the CPI- for Private Transportation which has actually Medium $ 15.78 564 $ 106,799.04 declined(456%).Per the Contract that expires at the end of 2022 the City costs Large $ 19.52 4281$ 100,254.72 are to be$223,121—about a$4,300 difference.NOTE:The costs associated with TOTALI 10951$ 223,121.76 the County Disposal fees are passed through and the contract requires the City pay this cost increase from$84/ton to$87/ton. Staff will be staying with the terms of the current Agreement—rejecting their 4% increase- if someone would like to discuss these rates, please let me know. See the enclosed Oak Park Heights-TENNIS Proposed -2022 #of oPH letter from Tennis. SIZE 2022 RATES UNITS Total 2021 Costs • The City received a noise complaint about airplane noise stemming from the Lake Small $ 13.33 103 $ 16,475.88 Medium $ 16.11 564 $ 109,032.48 Elmo Airport;this is out of our scope of authority but we did respond to our resident Large $ 19.85 428 $ 101,949.60 with available information to the Metropolitan Airports Commission. — See enclosed. TOTALI 1095 $ 227,457.96 • Council Member Mike Runk provided an article from the STAR TRIBUNE from 10-31-21; relating to the"third-lane"on Crosstown 62. He advised he had a meeting about this topic with the author and its correlation to the STH 36 eastbound slip lane;the author had some questions for myself and may reach out to others. Mayor McComber Provided 1. Updates from the NLC- 11/24 11/30 and 12/1 2. Enclosed is the listing of the 2021 Council Committee Assignments—If you have a preference for 2021 —please let the Mayor know. 3. Chamber Mixer Information for 12/16/21 4. Conversations in the Valley for 1/22/21 5. MNDOT—Local Road Research Board Information °wd iri s looms"is an internal ldat S alid ine. tnrmIiit al rin-t rtn IirlTitdd in 5rnrr•tr?tihar�hrkef upidafPs and inlnrrna[iiirr.:iFPO ng 6. EMWREP Updates City bepanments.City Consultants and Dl Cted utPi; As regarding.various 1upics. 1 of 80 City of Oak Park Heights 14168 Oak Park Blvd. N•Oak Park Heights,MN 55082•Phone(651)439-4439•Fax(651)439-0574 July 27,2021 TO: Jim Leonard, Owner VIA EMAIL ONLY:jimkfurymotors.com Eric Siskow,Lakeview Hospital VIA EMAIL ONLY: Eric.R.SiskowkLakeview.Org RE: Use of former Fury Motors Site–60'Street and Osgood Ave.-Ambulance Station Dear Mr. Leonard and Mr. Siskow: Thank you for your recent narrative and submission for a potential Conditional Use Permit for the site located at the N.W. corner of STH 36 and Osgood Ave.Your proposed use is an indoor staging and parking area for Lakeview Ambulance and related staff–basically an ambulance station. A number on internal improvements are proposed. Upon further review,the City has determined that your proposed uses are consistent with the B-2 Zoning permitted uses as outlined in City Ord. 401.30. and a CUP is not immediately needed. The above stated... the following must still occur as the site has remaining issues: • No outside storage or other non-compliant activities may occur at the site;this letter is subject to revision. All other City rules and ordinances remain in effect. • The Owner or Applicant must first secure a building permit from the City to make the necessary internal improvements to foster the use of the property including final clarifications on sprinkler installations. The sprinkler determination is wholly pending and the City makes no commitments on this issue at this time that they will NOT be required. We are awaiting information from you both related to this issue. • Some site conditions are in a"nuisance"condition–the rusty light poles and must be removed by October Ist 2021. • Ensure that weeds and other grasses are adequately maintained -please address this promptly; this has been discussed in the past. • Temp. signage banners will not be permitted;please provide a signage plan. The City asks that both of your offices ensure that the site remains in proper condition and that is representative of our community and your business operations. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thank you e41— Eric Johnson City Administrator Cc: Julie Hultman,Building Official Steve Hansen, Chief of Police 2 of 80 City of Oak Park Heights Allen S. King Plant Reuse Advisory Panel What we heard at our November Meeting.. . VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF THE KING PLANT PROPERTY For this exercise, we want you to imagine that you are visiting the former Allen S King Plant property a few years after the decommissioning and demolition has been completed. Plans for the reuse have been fully implemented. Assume that Xcel Energy continued to be responsible stewards of this land, the City of Oak Park Heights made wise land use decisions and the State of Minnesota, and the federal government provided the policy and financial support necessary to realize the best outcomes for this property. In other words, assume that everything went perfectly, and your best-case scenario played out. With these assumptions in mind, please describe that future place. Feel free to describe it as simply, or in whatever level of detail matches your vision. opportunitiesmuLti-famiLy views density incLudesaccess recreational • muLti-pur.. �. near commercimixed • lffice scenic rtax uses riverfront include along plant park • parkland residentiaLlight land corporate marina emphasizing Space open • housingase trails perhaps • including shoreline keeping new recreation Major Takeaways(see full responses in Appendix): • Mixed-use including commercial, light industrial, residential, office, hospitality, park, recreation, shoreline restoration, marina, green energy,trails etc... • Site is adequately reclaimed with restored shoreline and elements that highlight Wild and Scenic River • Mix of public access green spaces and more active uses, must replace some of the lost tax base 1 3 of 80 City of Oak Park Heights Allen S. King Plant Reuse Advisory Panel EXPLORING FUTURE LAND USE SCENARIOS The culmination of the King Plant Reuse Advisory Panel process will be focused on identifying, analyzing, and discussing alternative scenarios for the future use of this site. We want to begin those discussions tonight. Please take some time working on your own to consider the scenarios that are described below. Identify the scenario that best matches your preferences and make note of any variations or features or special priorities that would be important to you. These scenarios are not presented in any order of preference. It is also recognized that there are numerous related decisions regardless which reuse scenario is pursued. This is not a debate. It is a discussion. Your task is to explain which scenario best fits your choice for the preferred scenario and why. Please listen respectfully to each other and ask clarifying questions. There is value in understanding the viewpoints of every member, even if your viewpoint and priorities are very different. Maximum Industrial Scenario The focus of this scenario is to maximize the redevelopment potential of the King Plant property to replace lost tax base and jobs Comments: • No • This would be great from the perspective of tax base replacement, but may not be the best for community goals that include harnessing the beauty and recreational opportunity • No way. Not on the first National Scenic Riverway ever designated. • This would be good for taxpayers, but would not be the best use of the area on the Wild and Scenic Riverway • I believe light industrial has a role, but shouldn't dominate/be exclusive • Light industrial only—a huge factory is not only incompatible, but not a move forward with Riverway values • Continue current use, but would lose potential river opportunities • Continue existing use—consistent with adjacent use, regulatory restrictions • I support this scenario but also see the need to create protected shoreland along the river, open to public use. Difficult to replace the quality of jobs going away. • I believe this is the most important. The loss of tax base is huge. • No—why limit the opportunities to just industrial. There is enough land to do mixed-use development which industrial could be one part of. 2 4 of 80 t City of Oak Park Heights Allen S. King Plant Reuse Advisory Panel TA a • This is the most realistic and desirable scenario. However, park/green space uses are inevitable and should be included to be realistic • This is not a viable option because of the community ideals for this area. Natural Resource Restoration, Riverfront Park Scenario This scenario is focused on the restoration of natural resource systems and scenic beauty. Park improvements would be low impact and limited to trails and passive use. Strong integrated connections to regional trails. Comments: • Plus opportunities for green tech such as solar garden or other tech on Xcel's retained land • Recreation should be a component, but given the relatively scarce available land available elsewhere in the city for development, tax base replacement needs to be considered • Hooray! Who pays for ongoing maintenance?This is expensive for City of OPH to adopt another park, especially if 170 acres. • Does not recapture tax base enough • That is important with portions of the property • Yes • Seems most likely from regulatory standpoint, but some tax base offset needed. Marina? • Likely easiest use, but lost tax revenue • Sounds nice, but won't be a strong benefit to the City • Should be part of it but not the most important • No—loss of tax base and jobs in the community is a negative • This is a desirable scenario, but should be merged with the industrial scenario for a mixed industrial—natural resource scenario • This is not a viable option because the loss of tax revenue will be devastating Residential Emphasis Mixed-use Development, Including Neighborhood Service Commercial and Natural Areas A mixture of housing types and styles within a master planned neighborhood. Some of the housing would be in taller buildings to take advantage of the scenic views. Other housing would be served by an integrated open space system with trails, scenic overlooks, and waterfront amenities. Retail would be limited to neighborhood and convenience retail. Comments: 3 5 of 80 City of Oak Park Heights Allen S. King Plant Reuse Advisory Panel • I don't think the site is good for houses and commercial—floodplain not a good attribute for new housing • This would be a great option but may fall short in commercial development/tax replacement • Convenience retail not necessary—OPH already has convenience retail on Highway 36. DNR won't allow taller buildings in this area. • Yes • Housing is an important component, but shouldn't dominate • Yes—look to neighboring property for potential housing development • Seems most likely to balance needs • Challenges with noise—add light industrial use • Tall buildings will be limited by riverway rules. Density can be high—similar to downtown St. Paul condos(upper landing). This seems like the best scenario to me, tax replacement? • Somewhat important—I personally don't think it would be a nice place to live • Yes—there is enough land for a multitude of mixed-use opportunities including high end residential(ie. Condos) • This is unrealistic. Buildable site is too small for residential given floodplain restrictions. Also, neighboring, unchanging, and conflicting land uses make residential less desirable • This option is probably the best along with the park and trail features added Destination Hospitality, Mixed-use With Residential and Regionally Significant Park and Trail Features This scenario would include hotel, retreat center, major event center, with river view restaurants. It would also include multi-family residential with high end amenities, including limited retail. A marina with excursion boats and private slips add vitality to the waterfront. Development focused on relatively small footprint, with most of the floodplain restored with floodplain forest and trails. Comments: • Hotel, retreat center, major event center is inconsistent with riverway. Development focused on relatively small footprint, with most of the floodplain restored with floodplain forest and trails is compatible. • This would be another great option to balance the goals and opportunities of tax base replacement, recreation and natural restoration • That is too ambitious for this site 4 6 of 80 City of Oak Park Heights Allen S. King Plant Reuse Advisory Panel • I like this best • Major event center concepts will likely bring additional challenges(noise, traffic, etc) • No • Doesn't seem to fit the city, community culture/aesthetic • Marina and waterfront development unlikely. Is a hotel needed in the area?Residential focus better?Demand for event center space? • In a perfect world this would be nice • Yes—something along the lines of canal park! • Unrealistic due to unchanging, neighboring and conflicting land uses • This option is also very good. A combination of this with the last option is the way to go Other— Please describe Comments: • World class casino or event center • Combination of scenario 3 plus some light industrial uses. Original land use plan for reclamation—potential legislative action to assist with reuse of site • Preference:mixed use industrial along the south/west including data centers, sophisticated/clean industrial+recreational/green space along river • A mixed industrial/commercial—park/green space scenario would take advantage of site assets/features and lessen the fiscal impact • Significant cooperation with federal,state and interstate regulators will be needed to do the restoration of a site that is not very good looking. 5 7 of 80 City of Oak Park Heights Allen S. King Plant Reuse Advisory Panel APPENDIX — Full Responses Vision for the Future of the King Plant Property— November 17th Meeting For this exercise, we want you to imagine that you are visiting the former Allen S King Plant property a few years after the decommissioning and demolition has been completed. Plans for the reuse have been fully implemented. Assume that Xcel Energy continued to be responsible stewards of this land, the City of Oak Park Heights made wise land use decisions and the State of Minnesota, and the federal government provided the policy and financial support necessary to realize the best outcomes for this property. In other words, assume that everything went perfectly, and your best-case scenario played out. With these assumptions in mind, please describe that future place. Feel free to describe it as simply, or in whatever level of detail matches your vision. • The land/area is more in keeping with the Scenic Riverway values, environmentally improved. New green space to bring area back to natural pre-king plant state. Opportunities for green/clean energy such as solar panels—which could be a tax base benefit. • New development that includes commercial/industrial, residential, recreational uses • Multi-use site with park land, residential, and very light commercial. Possible marina with fishing pier spanning the wetlands and extending into the river itself • Mixed use which includes multi family housing, a park and commercial retail • Multi-purpose site with the following: Light industrial, commercial, residential, recreation/parkland/bike path, restored shoreline, marina • Review land use directly west of site up to stagecoach train N128195—could be attractive for future development • It's a site where there is green/open space with public access to the Riverway. There had been a thoughtful plan implemented to ensure economic viability for Oak Park heights.And there is a mixed development=commercial+housing. • Integrated mixed land use of open space park land with recreation opportunities, trails, shoreline restoration, mixed use residential, retail and perhaps light industrial • Mixed use, residential, commercial, open space • Adequately reclaimed, developed to meet community needs • I see the entire riverfront preserved as a meandering park with connections to townhome housing as permitted by scenic riverway rules. Office or retail along the entrance road. Mixed use and high density to maximize the tax base. Retail/restaurant to draw off the location and access to riverfront. 6 8 of 80 t City of Oak Park Heights Allen S. King Plant Reuse Advisory Panel TA a • That it is a multi-purpose area for all to enjoy. But it must have some type of tax base income for the citizens. We're losing a tremendous amount of tax money. Most people here in the valley don't realize this. • Mixed use including open space(parkland and trails, multi family(market rate including condos), retail/hospitality/convention center, office (corporate office campus), think along the lines of Canal Park redevelopment • Mixture of public access green space use emphasizing the river access and more active use such as industrial, commercial or residential. Industrial use could include an expansion of Anderson. Commercial could include mixed use and/or and Anderson corporate. • Mix of public access green space emphasizing river access with industrial or commercial office use. • Mixed use!I would like to see a mix of reuse development. Some level of commercial/industrial base near the south end, near Anderson's plant to offset some of the tax base lost. It would be difficult to utilize the site for "standard residential"development. Higher density residential with river views would work. There is plenty of recreational/park uses in that area. Perhaps trail and parkland with views and river access. Regulations NEED to be flexible. Goal Statements for the King Plant Property Please respond to the following preliminary goal statements for the Oak Park Heights City Council. These goals were crafted based on the responses to the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats exercise from the last workshop. 1. Collaborate with Federal, State and local agencies to ensure an efficient process and to work through regulatory challenges. Comments: • This statement will be very challenging depending upon what type of development it planned. • This is a good goal. It could be further strengthened with a vision for the final use. • Nothing will happen without the approval of regulation authorities at all levels • This is a must • The earlier you start this process, the better it will go! • Agree • Agree • Yes • Ok 7 9 of 80 City of Oak Park Heights Allen S. King Plant Reuse Advisory Panel �a 2. Work with Xcel to determine their priorities for the future of the site including decommissioning and remediation, infrastructure to be retained and liability of site reuse. Comments: • Excellent goal • Xcel is the property owner and they hold the most important cards for any future opportunities • This is a must • Xcel won't want future liability of site, proper remediation first • Xcel plan already figured out • Agree • Yes • Yes remediation could be a huge issue 3. Explore funding mechanisms for future reuse. Comments: • This goal could be strengthened and elaborated on: What funding sources will eb looked at? What is the city willing to provide?The County? • Finding money will be the easy part. The question should never be "how much will it cost"it should always be "what should we do."Money will always follow good ideas • This is a must • All options • Critical • Yes • Ok 4. Designate the Future Land Use (or uses) for the site. Comments: • This goal could be elaborated w/more statements on how and with whom. • Planned unit development • This is a must • High density residential, commercial, small portion of industrial on north end with RR access • Beflexible, regulations and opportunities change • Consistent with guidelines in number 5 8 10 of 80 City of Oak Park Heights Allen S. King Plant Reuse Advisory Panel �a • Yes • Oak park heights probably has limited jurisdiction to do this, other agencies/state/federal government are already designating Riverway land use 5. Set guidelines for future reuse that are compatible with City and community priorities. Comments: • This is a good, concise goal • Depends entirely on regulatory agencies • Are City Council and community priorities similar?Taxes versus Recreation • Yes • Emphasize community input to determine community priorities • Yes • City and community priorities are diverse, not necessarily consistent 6. Approve reuse scenario that will replace a portion of the lost tax base. Comments: • This seems too obvious to be a goal. Perhaps be more specific. • Depends entirely on regulatory agencies • Very important • High density residential, commercial, industrial—determine best combinations • Unlikely that full tax loss can be replaced • Agree • Yes • Portion of lost tax base can be recovered at sites outside of King Plant site. 7. Approve reuse scenario that will take advantage of the location along the scenic St. Croix Wild and Scenic River. Comments: • This is a 'must'and should be included on any final goal list • Depends entirely on regulatory agencies • Protect viewshed while maximizing tax base • That seems like maximizing recreation and open space, no development 9 11 of 80 r City of Oak Park Heights Allen S. King Plant Reuse Advisory Panel TA a • Critical • Yes • Yes 8. Other goal statements to be considered: • Create high wage paying employment opportunities 10 12 of 80 CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS POLICE DEPARTMENT 14168 Oak Park Blvd. N., Oak Park Heights, MN 55082 December 2, 2021 To: Mayor and Council From: Chief of Police, Steve Hansen Subject: Police Activity Report November 2021 This overview report is the activity of the Oak Park Heights Police Department during the month of November 2021. Officers responded to and generated 469 calls for service in the City of Oak Park Heights during this month. Quick breakdown for some of those calls for service include: 111 medicals, 1 fire related, 12 thefts from businesses, 23 vehicle accidents, 22 alarms, 4 disturbance/disorderly conducts, 38 traffic violations, 21 suspicious persons/vehicles, 12 mental health/suicide threats, 17 welfare checks. I had meeting with the Lakeview EMS director Jon Muller to review OPHPD current response model for medicals and discuss any changes if needed. At this point, no concerns or issues reported from director Muller and no changes needed. Also, I attended the house bonding tour at city hall with staff on the 18' along with a visit to Boutwells on the 16th with Admin Johnson and Assist Admin Pinski to discuss future projects occurring in the city. I attended the MN Police of Chiefs conference in St. Cloud at the beginning of the month and attended several training sessions through the executive training institute. The police department wrapped up security events for the high school football games this month and also were contracted for police security by Wal*Mart over Thanksgiving while they were closed. Community Outreach: The police department is participating in the Toys for Tots campaign and officially kicked of the 15'with two drop site locations of city hall and Joseph's restaurant. Training: Officers participated in department scenario base training for use of force/crisis intervention training earlier this month. Also, Police staff completed their CPR/AED refresher this past month at city hall with instructor Chris Zueli from the Stillwater Fire Dept. Calls for service highlights: This is a sample of some of the cases we responded to and investigated. 13 of 80 1. Theft of vehicle from a residence on upper 56th st. Suspect took the vehicle from open garage. 2. OPH assisted Bayport with a domestic assault arrest. OPH deployed pepper balls into suspects barricaded room and he then quickly surrendered without incident. 3. OPH officers responded to a complaint of a male sleeping in a car parked behind the vfw for the past couple of days. Located male whom was uncooperative and was later arrested for outstanding warrant. 4. Theft of catalytic converter from a vehicle in the high school lot 5. Officers responded to a pedestrian vs vehicle accident hwy 36/Osgood 6. Vehicle stolen from holiday gas station that was left running. Vehicle located on hwy 36 by WCSO and pursuit ensued into Ramsey County. Vehicle recovered and suspect apprehended. 7. OPH officer assisted social services with a homeless female living in the woods behind LOWES. She was in poor health and was transported to the hospital. 8. OPH officer assisted other agencies pursing a stolen vehicle that was traveling e/b in the w/b lanes of hwy 36. OPH Officer was able to successfully deploy stop sticks to deflate the tires and suspects were apprehended. 9. OPH officers investigated a report of a gun being fired at the Speedway on 60th st. Later determined it was a pepperball gun and it involved the suspect was trying to scare the other parties involved on scene over a possible sexual assault. Potential victims were not cooperative 10. Theft from Wal*Mart involving 3 suspects pushing out 3 carts full of unpaid merchandise on black Friday estimate of$2,000. 11. Theft from Kohls involving 4 suspects grabbing large quantities of Nike shoes and Sephora cosmetic supplies, fleeing the store with an estimated cost of$2,000-$3,000 worth of product. 12. OPH Officers are investigating a drive by shooting that occurred on the 28'win the 14400 block of 57'st N, Approx 11 rounds were fired towards the occupied home. Does not appear to be random and investigators are chasing down leads. 13.Animal complaint of a Deer roaming around the inside of the new TCO building with staff/patients on scene. Deer was able to exit out a garage service door prior to police arrival. 14 of 80 WATER AND SEWER RATE STUDY AND STORM SEWER UPDATE TABLE OF • Table of Contents Introduction 1 Water User Charges 2 General 2 Water Usage Estimates 2 Customer Base 3 Consumption 6 Water department expenditures 7 Water rates 9 Summary 11 Sewer User Charges 12 General 12 System flow estimates 12 Sewer department expenditures 15 Sewer rates 17 Summary 18 Storm Sewer User Charges 20 General 20 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATONS 22 Water 22 Sewer 22 Storm sewer 23 EXHIBIT A- Proposed Sewer Rates 24 EXHIBIT B- Proposed Sewer Rates-Customer Impacts 25 16 of 80 INTRODUCTION Introduction The City of Oak Park Heights annually reviews the water and sewer rate schedule to assure the receipt of adequate funding for the operation of the utility systems. This updated report is a summary of the data for the purpose to determine the user rates required are adequate and equitably finance the proposed 2022 operating budgets of the Water and Sewer Funds. This report contains an update to the analysis of the past and projected flows, usages, and system connections as well as a review of costs and projected expenditures for operation and maintenance. While the report focuses on the Water and Sewer Utilities, a review of the Storm Sewer Utility Charges is also included for 2022. Page 1 17 of 80 WATER USER CHARGES Water User Charges GENERAL It is necessary to periodically review the water user rates to determine if adequate revenue is being generated to operate the water supply and distribution system and to meet other financial obligations for capital improvements and for the renewal and replacement of infrastructure. The following sections of this report reviews water sales as well as expenditures and other financial obligations. Using this information, rates are computed to produce sufficient revenue to operate and maintain the water system for the coming year. The City bills its customers based on the amount of water that is consumed during a calendar quarter. The amount consumed is billed on a tier system. The base rate for all customers is the same for all customers who use 15,000 gallons or less per quarter. The tiers rates increase with the usage. The customers are varied and a small percentage utilize the highest tier rate. The following analysis will explain in more detail each of these aspects of the billing system. WATER USAGE ESTIMATES Each dwelling and structure connected to the City water system is equipped with a water meter to measure water usage. Each well supply is also equipped with a water meter to measure water produced. These two sources are then used to verify and estimate water consumption. Billed consumption for the last 5 years is reflected in CHART A. The gallons billed over these 5 years fluctuate from 176,000,000 to 191,000,000. Variations from year to year can be due to individuals practicing conservation, climate conditions and possible malfunctioning water meters. In 2020 a reduction in use can partially be attributed to the COVID 19 Pandemic and the "Stay at Home" executive order from the governor. 2021 has increased usage which may be due to the summer drought conditions. A conservative estimate of 180,000,000 gallons is the amount that will be used for calculating the estimated 2021 rates. Page 2 18 of 80 WATER USER CHARGES CHART A Yearly Tier Consumption • • . • 2017-2021 250,000 200,000 150,000 I • 100,000 i 16-50 51-99 100-200 >200 Total 20171 55,305 27,806 15,954 19,022 67,109 185,196 2018 56,034 28,768 15,666 20,011 71,164 191,643 2019 54,166 26,288 �� 00. _2020 55,382 1 28,374 1 60,012 1 176,481 0 31,489 16,749 19,579 67,143 19 BILLING TIERS — 2017 201819 —2020 N 2021 Water usage in the four tiers (0-200)fluctuates minimally. The upper tier of usage >200 million gallons is affected by the changes in climate and causes the greatest fluctuation in usage from year to year. CUSTOMER BASE The city's customer base consists of residential, commercial/industrial, public institution and sprinkler-irrigation accounts. The total of the regular accounts is approximately 1310 and 40 for the irrigation accounts (which are generally billed June through September). For the purpose of the study 1300 customers are used. Page 3 19 of 80 WATER USER CHARGES 1156 Residential users are 88%of the water customers, 144 Commercial users are 11%while 7 Public Institutions are .5%, and 40 Irrigation (Sprinklers) accounts are .5%of the total customers billed. (Chart B) While residential users are 88%of the water customers, they consume 54%of the water usage billings. The other users Commercial, Public Institution and Sprinkler generate the remaining 46% of the water billings. (Chart C) CHART B- 2021 Customer Type CHART C-2021 Consumption by Customer Type PUBLIC INSTITUTION SPRINKLER 0.5% PUBLIC INSTITUTION 1�y. COMMERCIAL 14"0 SPRINKLER 11% 0.5% ,Igo COMMERCIAL 20% RESIDENTIAL __. RESIDENTIAL 88% 54% ■ RESIDENTIAL ■COMMERCIAL ■ RESIDENTIAL ■COMMERCIAL ■ PUBLIC INSTITUTION ■SPRINKLER ■ PUBLIC INSTITUTION ■SPRINKLER 2021 BILLING QUARTE R TOTAL RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL PUBLIC INSTITUTION SPRINKLER Jan-March $ 161,297 $ 86,682 $ 41,554 $ 26,086 $ 6,975 April-June $ 236,346 $ 120,876 $ 50,762 $ 40,412 $ 24,296 July-Sept $ 321,165 $ 137,337 $ 50,756 $ 56,606 $ 76,466 Oct-Dec 2020 $ 172,462 $ 96,422 $ 42,526 $ 30,152 $ 3,362 Pr$ 891,270 $ 441,316 $ 185,599 $ 153,256 $ 111,099 Percent of Total 100.00% 49.52% 20.82% 17.20% 12.47% 2021 CONSUMPTION QUARTE R TOTAL RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL PUBLIC INSTITUTION SPRINKLER Jan-March 33,710 19,291 8,593 4,590 1,236 Arpil-June 52,613 29,307 10,681 7,021 5,604 July-Sept 68,647 33,042 10,731 9,761 15,113 Oct-Dec 2020 36,400 22,204 8,909 5,287 0 191,370 103,844 38,914 26,659 21,953 Percent of Total 100.00% 54.26% 20.33% 13.93% 11.47% Page 4 20 of 80 WATER USER CHARGES 1156 Residential customers generate 50% of the water revenue while the remaining 151 customers generate the other 50% revenue. Residents tend to use less gallons than commercial or public institution customers. In a tiered rate structure, the vulnerability in the division of customers is that 151 customers or 12% (those other than residential) generate 50% of the water revenue and when a large user (Commercial/Public Institution/ Sprinkler) has a change in usage it can have a large impact on the revenues generated. In 2021 there was higher usage due to the drought, resulting in the Sprinkler billing increase of 72%or $46,500. Customer Type Consumption 2017-2021 120,000 100,000 7,532 80,000 c 0 60,000 0 40,000son ,390 9,647 20,000 6,750 0 RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL PUBLIC SPRINKLER Years ■2017 ■2018 ■2019 ■2020 2021 •Average The above chart reflects the change in usage by customer type comparing it to the average. Two observations for changes in 2020 and 2021 is the impact of the covid pandemic and the drought. During 2020, the pandemic caused the residential usage to increase as people were ordered to "Stay at Home". The pandemic also caused Commercial and Public usage to drop as schools were closed and virtual learning was practiced and many commercial businesses closed or worked at a reduced capacity. 2021 continued lower usage for Commercial as Covid and staff shortages continues to create challenges. Public usage remained lower as the schools Page 5 21 of 80 WATER USER CHARGES-,-" were not open during the first part of 2021. However, Sprinkler and Residential increased in 2021 significantly due to the drought and yard watering. CONSUMPTION Presently water billings are based on tiers of consumption. The higher the usage the higher the rate per gallon. Consumption can vary in the rate tiers during quarterly billing periods. The current consumption tier levels per quarter are: • 0-15,000 gallons • 16,000-50,000 gallons • 51,000-99,000 gallons • 100,000-200,000 gallons • >200,000 gallons Projected consumptions are used to estimate revenues for funding the current year budget. The projected consumption for 2021 was 180,000,000 and for 2020 was 182,000,000. The actual consumption in 2021 is projected to be 191,000,000 and actual consumption in 2020 was 176,000,000. Estimating consumption to establish rates to generate revenue to fund the budget can result in fluctuations. The actual amount of loss or gain in revenue depends upon the consumption by rate tiers, especially the higher priced tiers. The following tables reflect Projected usage and revenues compared to Actual usage and revenues for 2021 and 2020. 2021 PROJECTED ACTUAL PROJECTED ACTUAL WATER USAGE WATER BILLING Rate Tier /1,000 gal usage REVENUE 0-15,999 55,000 56,410 $211,484 $215,770 16,000-50,999 26,000 31,489 $91,000 $111,300 51,000-99,999 15,000 4@0ft l4uu 16,749 $60,750 $68,200 100,000-200,999 19,000 19,579 $95,150 $98,000 201,000-999,999 65,000 67,143 $385,450 $398,000 Total 180,000 191,370 $843,834 $891,270 Page 22 of 80 WATER USER CHARGESe 2020 ACTUAL ACTUAL WATER USAGE WATER BILLING Rate Tier /1,000gal usage REVENUE 0-15,999 55,000 55,382 $215,691 $213,487 16,000-50,999 26,000 28,374 $91,000 $99,334 51,000-99,999 15,000 14,750 $60,750 $59,778 100,000-200,999 19,000 17,963 $95,150 $90,501 201,000-999,999 67,000 60,012 $397,350 $355,871 Total 182,000 176,481 $859,941 $818,971 The tiered revenue amounts in the tables show the greatest amount of revenue is generated from the >200,000,000 gallons. This is due to two reasons,the rate charged for this tier is 118% greater than the lowest tier, and the usage in this tier is the highest. The revenue generated is approximated 45%and 43%of the total revenue for 2021 and 2020 respectively. Shifts of usage from this tier have the greatest impact on revenue generated. The 2020 loss of $40,970 expected revenue ($859,941 projected compared to the $818,513 estimated) is from the loss of revenues related to the > 200,000 tier. The expected 2021 gain of $42,700 ($843,834 projected compared to the $886,591 estimated) is due in part to the highest tier but also reflected in the 16,000-50,000 tier. This is attributable to the residential lawn/garden watering during the drought. Fluctuations will always occur, but budgeting based on usage in "normal" years will help stabilize the rates charged. The average quarterly water usage per customer account for 2021 is: • Residential 22,500 gallons (includes apartments, duplexes, condo, and individual) • Commercial 67,500 gallons • Public Institution 952,100 gallons • Sprinkler (seasonal) 137,000 gallons Because of the limited number of customers, such as 7 Public Institution customers and 40 Sprinkler customers, and the disparity from the average usage, changes incurred by this small group will have the largest financial impact to water revenue. WATER DEPARTMENT EXPENDITURES To determine a water usage rate schedule, it is necessary to estimate the amount of the expenditures anticipated and revenue required. Expenditures can be generally classified in the following categories: Page 7 23 of 80 WATER USER CHARGES a. Operation and maintenance b. Capital Outlay c. System renewal and replacement d. Debt Service Operation and maintenance costs are to be included in the rate calculation and are taken directly from the City Budget. The City presently plans for current and future improvements within the current budget. Funds for current capital outlay are transferred to the Budgeted Projects Fund. Funds for capital improvements are transferred to the Capital Project Funds for Tower, Well and Renewal and Replacement to fund the future improvements and replacement of facilities and infrastructure. The following is a financial statement of the Water Fund from 2017 Actual through 2022 Budget. WATER FUND 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2021 2022 ACTUAL ACTUAL ACTUAL ACTUAL BUDGET ESTACTUAL BUDGET REVENUES CUSTOMER BILLINGS $ 773,617 $ 873,146 $ 799,397 $ 818,971 $ 843,900 $ 891,000 $ 844,000 OTHER REVENUES 33,494 26,564 59,859 34,844 5,000 12,845 5,000 TOTALREVENUES $ 807,111 $ 899,710 $ 859,256 $ 853,815 $ 848,900 $ 903,845 $ 849,000 EXPENSES PERSONNEL $ 180,730 $ 184,085 $ 202,563 $ 200,482 $ 221,750 $ 205,380 $ 228,700 CONTRACTUAL 138,583 119,329 118,504 121,656 (1) 182,320 193,850 196,600 MATERIALAND SUPPLIES 26,419 25,407 22,614 34,010 35,000 26,000 32,500 CAPITAL OUTLAY 95,900 90,100 86,600 87,100 85,000 85,000 81,100 TRANSFER CAPITAL IMP 250,815 252,002 247,905 242,592 255,179 256,079 252,079 TRANSFER FOR DEBT 102,000 103,000 104,000 105,000 106,000 106,000 107,000 TOTALEXPENSES $ 794,447 $ 773,923 $ 782,186 $ 790,840 $ 702,929 $ 872,309 $ 897,979 NET REVENUE $ 12,664 $ 125,787 $ 77,070 $ 62,975 $ 145,971 $ 31,536 $ (48,979) Based on estimated consumption of 180,000,000 gallons and 2021 water rates, 2022 reflects a revenue of $844,000 and Net Revenue loss of $(48,979). The projected loss is based on the 2022 Budgeted Expenses. (1)Contractual Expenses have increased since 2020. This is largely due to Utilities Expense for Well 1 that were previously allocated to the General Fund. A method of allocation based on Well 2's usage was implemented for allocating Well 1's cost to the Water Fund instead of the General Fund beginning in 2021. This raised the cost of utilities from $25,000 to $49,000, but reflects the cost of energy for pumping from 2 wells while prior years reflect only 1 well. The expenditure for Contractual fluctuates from year to year. This is primarily due to the repairs of water main breaks which is a result of the weather or the aging of the infrastructure. Five major Page 8 24 of 80 WATER USER CHARGES breaks and watermain repairs occurred in 2021 which cost $54,000. This expense and the reallocation of utilities are reflective of the increase to 2021 actual expense as compared to 2020. Expenditures for capital improvement transfers is budgeted in 2022 based on the depreciation expense. It has been City policy to transfer funds, equal to infrastructure depreciation, to the Renewal and Replacement Fund for future construction. A continuing analysis of the policy helps to determine what would be an appropriate amount to set aside for replacement within an acceptable fee base for the users of the system. The City did a street reconstruction project during 2014 and 2015 that utilized the funds in the Utility Renewal and Replacement Fund to partially fund the water infrastructure replacement that was required. The total amount needed to fund the water improvement portion of the project was also funded with a utility revenue bond. The future debt service of this bond is $107,000-$110,000/year for 2022-2025 (Total remaining of $434,000). The water utility rates have included this expenditure into the rate structure for 2015 and forward for the term of the bond issue. Since 2012 Council directed that the Administrative Charge (7% of current expenditures) be allocated to the Renewal Replacement Fund. In prior years this was transferred to the General Fund for the Utility's share of administration, accounting and billing. This reallocation of funds does not increase the expenditures of the water fund. This amount is still calculated and transferred out to the Renewal and Replacement Fund instead of the General Fund. WATER RATES The estimated unit cost to produce and supply water in the City of Oak Park Heights can be determined by dividing the estimated operating expenditures by the assumed flow. The budgeted expenditure cost per unit is summarized in the following chart: Page 9 25 of 80 2022 BUDGETED EXPENDITURES PER UNIT COST (180,000 gallons) (1300Cust) /1,000 GALLONS /CUSTOMER Operation &Maintenance $ 457,800 $ 2.54 $ 352.15 Renewal &Replacement 252,079 $ 1.40 $ 193.91 Debt Service 107,000 $ 0.59 $ 82.31 Capital Outlay 81,100 $ 0.45 $ 62.38 Total $ 897,979 $ 4.99 $ 690.75 Calculated Minimum quarterly bill 15,000gallons/ or based on per customer cost $ 74.83 $ 172.69 Actual minimum quarterly bill-volume base $ 40.67 $ 40.67 A per unit cost is $4.99/1,000 gallons ($897,979/180,000,000 gallons)or$690.75 per customer. This would result in a minimum quarterly bill based on 15,000 gallons of usage of$74.83 or a minimum quarterly bill "per customer" of$172.69. Our current minimum bill based on 15,000 gallons is $40.67. The difference as to the cost per 1,000 gallons per the chart ($74.83) and the actual amount charged for a minimum quarterly bill ($40.67) is funded by the tiered rate structure which incorporates volume billing rates. In addition to the unit cost, the City is also required to submit $9.72 per water connection per year to the State of Minnesota for water connection service fees. The Current established water rates for are as follows: $2.43/quarter for State Water Connection Fee- Per Connection Minimum Charge $40.67/quarter for up to 15,000 gallons $3.50/1,000 gallons for usage from 16,000 to 50,000 gallons/qtr. $4.05/1,000 gallons for usage from 51,000 to 99,000 gallons/qtr. $5.01/1,000 gallons for usage from 99,000 to 200,000 gallons/qtr. $5.93/1,000 gallons for usage over 200,000 gallons/qtr. The 2022 Revenue is estimated in the present tier billing rates as indicated in the following chart based on the 3 year average usage in the individual tiers. Water Rates were last increased in 2020 by an average of 4%. Page 10 26 of 80 WATER USER CHARGES 2022 REVENUES FROM PRESENT RATES 2022 Rate Tier /1,000 gal Rate Estimated Revenue 0-15,999 55,000 $40.67/acct $211,600 16,000-50,999 26,000 $3.50 $91,000 51,000-99,999 15,000 $4.05 $60,750 100,000-200,999 19,000 $5.01 $95,200 201,000-999,9999 65,000 $5.93 $385,450 Total 180,000 $844,000 For budget 2022, $844,000 is not sufficient to fund the 2022 estimated expenditures of $897,979. A projected shortfall of$48,979 is estimated. SUMMARY The review of the water fund reflects that the continued rate structure using a conservative usage will not generate enough revenue to fund the expenditures as budgeted for in 2022, resulting in a loss of $48,979. In 2021 as the budget and the expenses were reviewed it was projected to also have a loss of $36,349, however due to an increase in usage and billing for 2021, it is projected to end with a $31,500 gain. 2021 had high usage/billings due to an unusually dry summer season, while 2020 had low usage/billings due to the Covid-19 pandemic. These events are hard to predict or plan for, however both years saw a net gain in revenues over expenditures as reflected in the financial information on page 7. The Customer base continues to be volatile as so few customers provide 50% of the revenue needed to fund the Water expenses. Irrigation provides 12%of the revenues and can fluctuate causing losses and gains. A review of the Water Utility over a 5-year period reflects usage changes and is averaged to even out the fluctuations so rates need not be adjusted every year. The fluctuations will continue as there are so few users in the high-end tiers. Rates could possibly be adjusted for the expected loss; however, history reflects funds available to use toward this loss should it occur. The Water Fund Unrestricted (available) Fund Balance is $1,199,200, or 133% of the 2022 Budgeted Expenditures . Page 11 27 of 80 SEWER USER CHARGES Sewer User Charges GENERAL The City of Oak Park Heights regularly reviews, adopts, and/or modifies its sewer user rate schedule to assure that sufficient revenue is being generated for the payment of all expenditures associated with the operation and maintenance of the sewage collection system and treatment facilities. This review is also undertaken to verify that all classification of sewer users are charged for service in a manner which is fair and equitable as defined in State and Federal regulations. The following sections of this report will describe the system usage, financial obligations, and budgeted expenditures as well as a suggested rate schedule to provide adequate revenues to operate and maintain the system in 2022. SYSTEM FLOW ESTIMATES Utility user rates can be established by equating the amount of service sold to the estimated expenditures anticipated by the utility. In the case of a sanitary sewer system, the use or service can be measured by sewage flow with projections for future use being dependent upon growth by number and type of connections to the system. The Metropolitan Council Environmental Services (MCES) maintains flow-measuring devices which are used to total all sewage flows from the entire City. The MCES utilizes a "firm flow" allocation method in order to stabilize the flow revenue for the MCES and the charges to the municipalities. This means instead of estimating a system flow, the MCES uses the last known flow numbers to allocate their budget for the coming year. To determine the 2022 annual billing amount, the calculation is based on flows from January 1, 2020 and ending December 31, 2020. The annual charge is a flat rate and billed to the city in equal monthly installments. The sewer flow of 175,260,000 gallons is the MCES measurement for the city during 2020 and is used for the calculation of the 2022 charges due the MCES. The total amount of water billed for 2020 was 163,500,000 (Excludes Sprinkler Billed). The difference can be attributed to unbilled water,such as broken meters, unmetered usage (use of winter water usage to calculate summer sewer bills) and if the city has any Inflow and Infiltration of storm/ground water. The total amount of water pumped for 2020 was 209,626,000. The MCES flows are 83%of the water pumped. The amounts of MCES Flow compared to Well Pump amounts are being Page 12 28 of 80 SEWER USER CHARGES compared periodically. The MCES has a lag of about 3-6 months in the data being provided which makes it harder to catch discrepancies on a timely basis. The MCES is STILL working to shorten the data lag. The MCES daily flow calculations will continue to be monitored by city staff and compared to the City's water pump reports. Assumptions and estimates must be used to apportion flows and resulting costs to the various types of users on the system. The budgeted billable flow for sewer for 2021 is 145,000,000 gallons. 2021 billed flow is estimated at 142,000,000. For 2022, 142,000,000 will be used for calculating the rates. Historical, 2012-2019, billing flows of 150,000,000-156,000,000 was consistent which generated a steady amount of revenues. However, 2020 billed flow was 141,000,000 and the current year of 142,000,000, this merits a new estimate of 142,000,000 gallons. Sewage flows from residential connections are assumed to be equal to the quarterly water usage experienced during the winter months when no lawn sprinkling occurs. Actual quarterly water meter readings are used for sewage discharge billing for all commercial, industrial, institutional and high-end residential connections (> 3 units). The following chart reflects the billed million gallons (mg) of sewer for each type of user for the 2021 year. 2021 Estimated Flow by Customer (mg) F"""_ --qq-1 33,349 46,069 61,727 ■RESIDN>3 ■COMM/PUB-VARIABLE ■RESIDENTIAL-FIXED Page 13 29 of 80 SEWER USER CHARGES Water meters exist at each connection which measures the water purchased, but does not provide information on the quantity discharged to the sewer. Generally, almost all water purchased enters the sewer system with the exception of that water used for lawn irrigation. Lawn sprinkling is primarily confined to single family, townhouse, and similar land uses. Where large institutional facilities or other users have high irrigation demands, separate meters are becoming common so that sewer billing is limited to the non-sprinkler water usage only. There is an approximate total of 1300 customers, 200 customers are billed actual water usage (commercial/residential >3units/public institution) and 1,100 billed the entire year on winter water usage (fixed residential). Due to the COVID19 pandemic there was a shift in sewer usage billed which was similar to the shift in water. This is reflected in the chart below in 2020 and 2021. This is reasonable as the sewer usage for commercial, who services were temporarily closed or reduced, is billed on water usage. Residents billed on winter usage is similar to prior years. The following graph reflects the change in usage. USAGE (FLOW)BILLED 120,000 100,000 V) z 0 80,000 J J a C7 60,000 z O J J 40,000 20,000 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 ■RESIDN>3 COMM/PUB VARIABLE 103,423 106,435 100,064 94,977 95,857 ■RESIDENTIAL-FIXED 47,326 50,093 45,620 46,713 46,069 BILLED USAGE BY YEAR AND CUSTOMER TYPE ■RESIDN>3 COMM/PUB-VARIABLE ■RESIDENTIAL-FIXED Page 14 30 of 80 SEWER USER CHARGES SEWER DEPARTMENT EXPENDITURES In addition to estimating the volume of sewage flow, the other basic factor required in establishing user rates is the amount of expenditures anticipated and revenue required. Expenditures can be generally classified in the following categories: a. Metropolitan Council Environmental Services billing b. Local operation and maintenance c. Capital Outlay d. System renewal and replacement The Sewer Utility Budgets for 2021 and 2022 along with actual expenditures for 2017- 2020 and estimated 2021 are in the following table. SEWER FUND 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2021 2022 ACTUAL ACTUAL ACTUAL ACTUAL BUDGET ESTACTUAL BUDGET REVENUES CUSTOMER BILLINGS $ 972,017 $ 1,030,293 $ 974,950 $ 949,846 $ 973,750 $ 962,750 $ 963,000 REBATE $ (103,275) $ OTHER REVENUES 45,398 20,548 49,047 38,802 10,000 10,000 10,000 TOTAL REVENUES $ 1,017,415 $ 947,566 $1,023,997 $ 988,648 $ 983,750 $ 972,750 $ 973,000 EXPENSES PERSONNEL $ 118,289 $ 121,371 $ 127,532 $ 132,010 $ 136,000 $ 136,000 $ 130,320 CONTRACTUAL 102,075 123,452 128,792 99,532 156,875 125,875 163,700 VICES 498,930 421,608 445,828 460,043 473,500 473,500 491,690 MATERIALAND SUPPLIES 13,853 7,962 7,555 9,535 15,450 15,450 15,950 CAPITAL OUTLAY 49,725 51,725 47,777 47,625 46,525 46,525 45,650 TRANSFER CAPITAL IMP 171,303 173,061 183,085 178,122 171,750 171,750 173,700 TOTAL EXPENSES $ 954,175 $ 899,179 $ 940,569 $ 926,867 $ 1,000,100 $ 969,100 $ 1,021,010 NET REVENUE $ 63,240 $ 48,387 $ 83,428 $ 61,781 $ (16,350) $ 3,650 $ (48,010) The 2018 revenues reflect a rebate given by the City for the credit that was received from MCES for 2018. This was a onetime $80.00 reduction in each sewer customer's bill. Revenues have provided sufficient amounts to fund the expenditures for 2017 through projected 2021. The Budget for 2022 reflects a deficit of $48,010 or (5.0%) based on the proposed budget expenditures of $1,021,010. 2022 Revenues are based on billed flows of 142,000,000 gallons. 2021 Budget was based on 145,000,000 gallons billed. This reduction of flow billing results in Page 15 31 of 80 SEWER USER CHARGES a reduction of $11,000 in estimated revenue for 2021. 2022 Budgeted Expenditures are estimate to increase by $20,910 or 2.0% over the 2021 Budget The Metropolitan Council Environmental Services fee will be $491,690 for 2022 as compared to $473,500 for the year 2021. This represents a 3.8% increase in the MCES fee. The MCES charges since 2011 are in the following chart. MCES CHARGES BASED ON FLOWS AND BUDGET CHANGES OPH%of % MCES OPH TOTAL %INC IN MCES INCREASE Years TOTAL FLOW FLOWS FLOWS MCES BUDGET BUDGET ANNUALCHG (DECREASE) 2011 85,293.98 201.05 0.23571% 172,784,609 3.21% $407,277.81 4.40% 2012 93,680.78 194.90 0.20805% 173,649,000 0.50% $ 361,271.44 -11.309/o 2013 88,133.97 176.84 0.20065% 178,823,786 2.98% $ 358,808.28 -0.68% 2014 86,007.24 160.68 0.18682% 184,188,500 3.00% $ 344,103.68 -4.10% 2015 91,494.90 154.69 0.16907% 190,710,000 3.54% $ 322,432.51 -6.30% 2016 85,601.13 163.99 0.19157% 201,013,000 5.40% $ 376,143.46 16.66% 2017 85,298.36 166.36 0.19503% 211,941,538 5.44% $ 413,356.06 9.89% 2018 90,747.95 174.11 0.19186% 219,749,756 3.68% $ 421,614.26 2.00% 2019 89,991.18 176.40 0.19602% 227,440,997 3.50% $ 445,828.05 5.74% 2020 87,891.72 171.60 0.19524% 235,629,000 3.60% $ 460,042.61 3.19% 2021 96,967.05 191.00 0.19697% 240,342,000 2.00% $ 473,411.56 2.91% 2022 89,095.42 175.26 0.19671% 249,955,000 4.00% $ 491,687.60 3.86% The chart shows an increase in the MCES budget for 2022 of 4.0%, however the percentage increase in the annual MCES charge for the city for 2021 is 3.86%. This is due to the City's flow in relation to the total MCES flow percentage of .19671%. Local operation and maintenance costs for sewer are incorporated into the rate structure and have been taken directly from the City Budget or from actual expenditures when available. The City presently plans for current and future improvements within the current budget. Since 2012 Council directed that the Administrative Charge (7% of current expenditures) be allocated to the Renewal Replacement Fund. In prior years this was transferred to the General Fund for the Utility's share of administration, accounting and billing. This reallocation of funds does not increase the expenditures of the sewer fund. This amount is still calculated and transferred out to the Renewal and Replacement Fund instead of the General Fund. Page 16 32 of 80 SEWER USER CHARGES Like the Water Utility Fund, it has been City policy to transfer funds equal to depreciation to the Renewal and Replacement Fund for future construction. This amount is reviewed and analyzed on occasion along with policy to determine if funding for future renewal and replacement of infrastructure is sufficient to achieve the expected capital improvement. SEWER RATES Sewer costs can be computed by simply dividing the various operating costs by the estimated flow. This generates a per unit cost. The present rates based on per unit and volume billing are calculated in the chart. SEWER 2022 BUDGETED EXPENDITURES PER UNITCOST (142,000 gallons) 1300 /1,000 GALLONS /CUSTOMER Operation &Maintenance $ 308,970 $ 2.18 $ 237.67 MCES 491,690 $ 3.46 $ 378.22 Capital Improvements 173,700 $ 1.22 $ 133.62 Capital Outlay 46,650 $ 0.33 $ 35.88 Total $ 1,021,010 $ 7.19 $ 785.39 Minimum quarterly bill 15,000 gallons based on per unit cost $ 106.35 $ 196.35 Actual minimum quarterly bill-volume base $ 78.50 $ 78.50 A per unit cost is $7.19/1,000 gallons ($1,021,010/142,000,000 gallons) or $785.39 per customer ($1,021,010/1300 customers). This would result in a minimum quarterly bill based on 15,000 gallons of usage of $106.35 or a minimum bill "per customer" of $196.35. Our current minimum bill based on 15,000 gallons is $78.50 The current established quarterly sewer rates are as follows: Minimum Charge $78.50/quarter for up to 15,000 gallons $5.70/1,000 gallons for usage over 15,000-50,000 gallons $5.95/1,000 gallons for usage above 50,000 gallons Page 17 33 of 80 SEWER USER CHARGES The projected revenue for 2021 is estimated to be at $963,000, the budgeted amount was $973,750. The 2021 budget was based on 145,000 mg while the projected 2021 is 142,000mg. Even though this decrease of $37,100 in revenues for 2021, it is estimated that 2021 expenditures are $30,110 less than budget and therefore enough revenue will be generated to cover the 2020 expenditure budget, with an approximate $17,500 surplus. The following tables reflects the actual rates and estimated revenue for 2021 and 2022 based on the estimate of 142,000,000 gallons of flow and 2022 estimate utilizing the current rates with the projected billed flow of 142,000,000. 2021 and 2022 Estimated Actual Rate Tier Estimated Revenue 1000 gal Rate 0-15,999 48,000 $78.50/acct $408,200 16,000-50,999 19,000 $5.70 $108,300 51,000-999,999 75,000 $5.95 $446,250 Total 142,000 $962,750 If rates for 2022 were to remain the same as 2021 there would be an approximate loss of $48,010 for the 2022 budget. SUMMARY Budgets are an estimate of income and expenses for a set period of time. The estimated Budget for 2022 is based on a reduction in billing flows and a 2% increase over 2021 Budgeted Expenses. Expenditures can vary based on large expenses planned for backups and maintenance that may be required to the infrastructure and equipment. The City has a sound policy on renewal and replacement of both, but occasionally there may be an unexpected major expense. The contractual budget which includes sewer cleaning,televising and pumping expenses, is expected to be $20,000 under budget for 2021, and is the reason that 2021 reduced revenues will still meet the expenses with an estimated $3,300 surplus. 2021 is not a typical year due to the COVID19 pandemic. Usages/Flows changed due to closures of businesses and schools, people working from home and reductions of hours of service for many commercial businesses. The economic impact is not expected to correct back to pre- pandemic any time soon. In order to meet the 2022 cost of operating the Sewer utility rates Page 18 34 of 80 SEWER USER CHARGES should be adjusted. In order to cover the expected loss of $48,010, the present rates would need to be raised by 5%. Understanding there is uncertainty to the flow predictions and when/if the economy may return to pre-pandemic status, an overall 3% rate adjustment is proposed to alleviate a portion of the expected loss of$48,010. This would raise the revenues by$29,000 based on the 2021 flow billing. An analysis of 2022 flow billing and actual expenses, it may become necessary to raise the rates again in 2023. The last rate change was in 2019 when the minimum bill was reduced to $78.50 from the $81.00. The last increase was in 2018. The following charts reflect a 3% increase and a 5% increase. 2022 Rates - 3% Increase Rate Tier Estimated Revenue 1000 aI Rate 0-15,999 -� 48,000 $81.00/acct $421,200 16,000-50,999 -� 19,000 $5.87 $111,530 51,000-999,999 -� 75,000 $6.12 459,000 Total VIII $991,730 2022 Rates - 5% Increase Rate Tier Estimated Revenue 1000 gal Rate 0-15,999 48,000 82.5 $429,000 16,000-50,999 19,000 $5.98 $113,620 51,000-999,999 75,000 $6.25 $468,750 Total 142,000 $1,011,370 The Unrestricted Funds that Sewer has available are $1,449,418. This is 141% of the 2022 budget and can be utilized should 2022 incur a loss as expected. The fund balance is an accumulation of revenues $1,001,188 that have exceeded expenditures in the past, the unallocated balance of$331,435 from the MCES refund for overcharging the City and $116,795 of prior year SAC credits the City received from MCES for the St. Croix Cleaners. Page 19 35 of 80 STORM SEWER USER CHARGES Storm Sewer User Charges GENERAL Storm Sewer Charges were established by the City in 1999. The purpose of all funds derived from the storm water drainage utility is to payfor all or part of the construction, reconstruction, repair, enlargement, improvement, regulatory response, maintenance, operation and use of the storm sewer utility as established by the City of Oak Park Heights. The following is 2017-2020 Actual Revenue and Expenditures, along with 2021 Budget, Estimate and 2022 Budget: STORMS EWER FUND 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2021 2022 ACTUAL ACTUAL ACTUAL ACTUAL BUDGET Est Actual BUDGET REVENUES CUSTOMER BILLINGS $ 82,732 $ 83,907 $ 83,469 $ 97,766 $ 97,600 $ 97,600 $ 97,600 OTHER REVENUES 3,454 3,668 6,002 3,943 500 500 500 TOTAL REVENUES $ 86,186 $ 87,575 $ 89,471 $ 101,709 $ 98,100 $ 98,100 $ 98,100 EXPENSES PERSONNEL $ 21,568 $ 21,934 $ 39,271 $ 26,075 $ 45,700 $ 24,500 $ 47,000 CONTRACTUAL 26,299 46,255 24,284 26,930 42,845 34,000 43,390 MATERIALAND SUPPLIES 1,754 1,360 2,357 993 2,050 2,350 2,350 ADM FEE 5,350 5,350 5,500 5,500 6,350 6,350 6,350 CAPITAL OUTLAY 13,850 36,600 36,600 5,100 5,750 5,925 7,450 TOTAL EXPENSES $ 68,821 $ 111,499 $ 108,012 $ 64,598 $ 102,695 $ 73,125 $ 106,540 NET REVENUE $ 17,365 $ (23,924) $ (18,541) $ 37,111 $ (4,595) $ 24,975 $ (8,440) The fees are established as: Residential $4.50 per quarter per unit (up to 4 units) Vacant Land $2.0 per quarter Developed Commercial, Industrial & High Density Residential $33.00 per acre per quarter Undeveloped Commercial, Industrial & High Density Residential $5.00 per acre per quarter Presently the fees generate $98,100 revenue, and the budgeted expenses for 2022 are$106540 causing a $8,440 deficit. The actual expenses for 2021 is estimated at $73,125, while revenue Page 20 36 of 80 STORM SEWER USER CHARGES is estimated at $98,100, providing a surplus of$24,975. Actual expenses have historically been under budget. No changes are recommended as there are sufficient funds available to meet this deficit,should it occur. Unrestricted Balance for Storm Sewer is $230,630. Rates were last adjusted in 2020. Page 21 37 of 80 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATONS CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATONS WATER The Study reflects that there is a budgeted loss for 2022 Water Fund. 2020 and 2021 were unusual years, from the 2020 Covid pandemic and the 2021 severe drought. Usage billed had a significant impact on the revenues needed to fund the expenses. However, both years are expected to end with a surplus. 2022 budgeted loss of$48,979 is based on 180,000,000 gallons of water billed. This is an estimate subject to fluctuations as seen in the recent years. Because 2020 and 2021 were unusual years, it should not be used as a standard for developing rates for the Water Utility. However, it should be seen as a source for an analysis of the volatility of the tiered rate structure. Using an average of the last 5-7 years, ignoring the years with large variances has generated enough revenue to result in a gain for the water fund for each of the last 5 years. The average method should result in gains and losses that can be absorbed by the years. At this time, the estimated loss of $48,979 for 2022 should be funded with the prior 5 year accumulated gains of $310,000. The other consideration is that the Transfer for Debt of $107,000 will no longer need funding after 2025. This should be a consideration as each year is reviewed in the future. Recommend to address the budget shortfall: 1) Leave the 2022 Budget as is and fund the anticipated deficit of$48,000 with fund balance. The fund balance is in a strong position- the Unrestricted Fund Balance is $1,199,200. SEWER Sewer Rates should be increased to fund at least part of the expected deficit of$48,000. MCES continues to raise the expense charged to the City and the flow billings are not sufficient to provide for all the budgeted expenses. Understanding there is uncertainty to the flow predictions and when/if the economy may return to pre-pandemic status, an overall 3% rate adjustment is proposed to alleviate a portion of the expected loss of$48,010. This would raise the revenues by $28,000 based on the 2021 flow billing. An analysis of 2022 flow billing and actual expenses, it may become necessary to raise the rates again in 2023. Page 22 38 of 80 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATONS Exhibit A and B are reflecting a 3% and a 5% increase and the impact on various customers. Recommend to address the budget shortfall: 1) Increase the Rates by 3% (Alternative 2) and fund the remainind anticipated deficit of $20,000 with the fund balance. Unrestricted Fund Balance is $1,449,418. 2022 flows should be reviewed for anticipated increases and how it may affect 2023. ( The $28,000 of estimated revenue that will increase with this rate increase should help to fund the increase in MCES expenses since 2020 of$31,700.) STORM SEWER No change in rates recommended. The budgeted loss of $8,440 is fundable with unallocated funds available of$230,630. Recommend to address the budget shortfall: 1) Leave the 2022 Budget as is and fund the deficit with fund balance. The fund balance is in a strong position, the Unrestricted Fund Balance is $230,630. Page 23 39 of 80 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS EXHIBIT A SEWER RATE ALTERNATIVES CURRENT RATES 2021 SEWER /1000 Estimated Tiers /1000 GAL MINIMUM Gallons Revenue 0-15,999 $ 5.23 $ 78.50 48,000 $ 408,200 16,000-50,999 $ 5.70 19,000 $ 108,300 51,000-999,999 $ 5.95 75,000 $ 446,250 142,000 $ 962,750 PROPOSED 2022 ***Fully Fund $48,000 shortage ALTERNATIVE#1-5%INC IN RATE BY TIER Provides$48,000 in additional revenue SEWER /1000 Estimated Tiers /1000 GAL MINIMUM Gallons Revenue 0-15,999 $ 5.50 $ 82.50 48,000 $ 429,000 16,000-50,999 $ 5.98 19,000 $ 113,620 51,000-999,999 $ 6.25 75,000 $ 468,750 TOTAL 142,000 $ 1,011,370 INC OVER 2021 RATE 5.05% PROPOSED 2022 ***Parially Fund $48,000 shortage ALTERNATIVE#2-3%INC IN RATE BY TIER Provides$29,000 additional revenue SEWER /1000 Estimated Tiers /1000 GAL MINIMUM Gallons Revenue 0-15,999 $ 5.40 $ 81.00 48,000 $ 421,200 16,000-50,999 $ 5.87 19,000 $ 111,530 51,000-999,999 $ 6.12 75,000 $ 459,000 TOTAL 142,000 $ 991,730 INC OVER 2021 RATE 3.01% Page 24 40 of 80 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS EXHIBIT B SEWER RATE ALTERNATIVES- EXAMPLES OF CUSTOMER BILLS CURRENT RATES 2021 EXAMPLES 4,500,000 150,000 20,000 MINIMUM SEWER LARGE USER MID USER RESIDENTIAL RESIDENTIAL Tiers /1000 GAL MINIMUM 0-15,999 $ 5.23 $ 78.50 $ 78.50 $ 78.50 $ 78.50 $ 78.50 16,000-50,999 $ 5.70 $ 199.50 $ 199.50 $ 28.50 $ - 51,000-999,999 $ 5.95 $ 26,477.50 595.00 $ - $ $ 26,755.50 $ 873.00 $ 107.00 $ 78.50 PROPOSED 2022 EXAMPLES ALTERNATIVE#1-5%RATE INCREASE 4,500,000 150,000 20,000 MINIMUM SEWER LARGE USER MID USER RESIDENTIAL RESIDENTIAL Tiers /1000GAL MINIMUM 0-15,999 $ 5.50 $ 82.50 $ 82.50 $ 82.50 $ 82.50 $ 82.50 16,000-50,999 $ 5.98 $ 209.30 $ 209.30 $ 29.90 $ - 51,000-999,999 $ 6.25 $ 27,812.50 625.00 $ - $ - TOTAL $ 28,104.30 $ 916.80 $ 112.40 $ 82.50 % INC OVER 2021 RATE 5.04% 5.02% 5.05% 5.10% ALTERNATIVE#2-3%RATE INCREASES SEWER Tiers /1000 GAL MINIMUM 0-15,999 $ 5.40 $ 81.00 $ 81.00 $ 81.00 $ 81.00 $ 81.00 16,000-50,999 $ 5.87 $ 205.45 $ 205.45 $ 29.35 $ - 51,000-999,999 $ 6.12 $ 27,234.00 $ 612.00 $ - $ - TOTAL $ 27,520.45 $ 898.45 $ 110.35 $ 81.00 % INC OVER 2021 RATE 2.86% 2.92% 3.13% 3.18% Page 25 41 of 80 r! III SANrrAT10N L.L.C.-ROLL OFF LLC.-RECYCLING L LC- v~w.teennyniissssanitationn.oam 7 ST.PAUL PARK,MN l A1�111'A 1'li'. GREG&WILLIE TENNIS City of Oak Park Heights Eric Johnson, City Administrator 14168 Oak Park Blvd. Oak Park Heights, MN 55082 11/15/2021 RE: Request for Rate Adjustment Dear Eric Johnson, Mayor and Members of the City Council: Tennis Sanitation, L.L.C. would like to propose an increase on all the contracted line items that consist of, the collection fee, recycling fee, yard waste and appliance "white goods". As well as the items that are billed directly to the residents which are, extra bagged trash, construction trash, that would go into effect on January 15t, 2022. These increases are based on the R & E Board's decision to increase disposal fees. As the R & E Board increases these rates yearly, a corresponding adjustment of our residential rates needs to be implemented to cover the changing costs of disposal and labor to service these additional items that are disposed of weekly. We have decided to propose a flat 4% increase for all the items. We have included data showing what the cost is to us regarding each of the line items for your reference. Disposal Rate Adjustment The city has based the current disposal rate off of the R & E Boards dumping fee of$84.00 per ton. Effective January 15t, 2022, the rate will be $87.00 per ton. Below are the calculations based on the new adjusted disposal fee formula listed in the contract. See attached letter from the Ramsey/Washington Recycling & Energy Board Volume Level Weight Calculator Per unit increase New disposal rate 35 Gallon rate calculation: .054 tons/month =$0.97 per month $4.70 65 Gallon rate calculation: .086 tons/month =$ 1.55 per month $7.48 95 Gallon rate calculation: .130 tons/month =$ 2.32 per month $11.22 Per Yard of Construction debris Proposed 4% rate increases 2015 Qis zais 1a.$13.osai per Ton 00 Current Rate $19.50 $19.56 %Increase since 21 4% 4% .� 0.78 0.78 r $19.50 ~ 4 FV $2.40 Per 30 gallons Extra Trash Charge as of 1/1/21 $0.78 J. .4 Ye1r Disposal per Tan $200 $20.29 2015 $56.22 4% Collection Fee $ 4.00 4% $ 0.16 $ 4.16 2016 $58.66 $0.08 Recycling Fee $ 2.55 4% $ 0.10 $ 2.65 2017 $58.66 2018 $65.60 $2.60 Yard Waste 1.00 4% 0.64 1.04 2019 $69.00 $0.08 [Appliance Fee $ 0.75 496 $ 0.03 $ 0.78 2020 $82.402421 $&4.44 2422 $8.7.04 %Increase since 21' 3.57% $2.08 42 of 80 Collection Fee On-Highway Diesel Fuel On-Highway Diesel Fuel The collection fee for the City has not changed Prices Prices .,, idorar5iar oanon� since the start of the contract, which is $4.00 5 5 per home per month. The collection fee Midwest includes costs such as driver wages, insurance a Oct 25,2021 coverage, diesel fuel and replacement parts for $3.632dollarspergallon truck maintenance. We have listed an example 3 Novyest 2.2020 3 of the cost of diesel fuel in the Midwest that $2.246 dollars per gallon 1 2 Jan'21 'Jay 21 Sep 71 2 Jan'21 May 21 Sep 21 has risen 61+%just in the last year, 37% -u.s. -u.s. historically since 2015. Central Atlantic CentraIAtlantic -Midwest -Midwest -'+lest Coast -iVest Coast -California -California Appliance/Large Item "White Goods" Below is a table to show the items that have been picked up curbside and the cost to dispose of them without the taxes and fees included. To cover the disposal cost only for the 2021 white goods, we would have needed $1.01 per residents per month. Oak Park Heights Bulk Items and Applinace charges-Based on Weight&additonal charge to dispose of 1 m ei 10 C m G na+ - a m v & c Is 0 Q CL a v m o u o o H u bo -a L y d p 47 O L L V N H F u F F a F F F a m i F F 3 2015 61,455 30.73 $55.22 $1,727.59 139 $6.00 5334.00 60 97 157 $17.00 $2,669.00 $5,230.50 $0.40 2016 79,640 39.32 $59.0�0... $2,290.56 137 $9.00 $1,096.00 91 129 220 $17.00... $3,740.00 $7,116.56 $0.54 2017 90,445 45.22 $53.00 $2,622.91 149 $8.00 $1,192.00 78 153 231 $20.00 $4,620.00 $8,434.91 $0.64 2013 88,255 441.13 $65.00 $2,858.29 135 $10...00... $1,350.00 98 146 244 $20...00... $4,3&0.00 $9,098.29 $o.59 2019 90,075 45.04 $69.00 $3,107.59 246 $10.00 $2,460.00 74 145 219 $20.00 $4,390.00 $9,947.59 50.76 2020 10...9,710... 54..86 $82.00... $4,498.11 155 510...00... $1,550.00 los 194 239 $20...00... $s,73o.o0 $11,828.11 $0.90. Total on the 1st 3 quarters 2021 70,965 35.48 $84.00 $2,980.53 109 $15.00 $1,635.00 75 138 213 $25.00 $5,325.00 $9,940.53 Estimated 4th quarter 23,655 11.83 $84.00 $993.51 36 $15.00 $540.00 25 46 71 $25.00 $1,775.00 $3,308.51 Total 94,620 47.31 $94.00 $3,974.04 145 $15.00 $2,175.00 1 100 194 284 $25.00 $7,100.00 $13,249.04 $1.01 Overview Tennis Sanitation L.L.C. is requesting the following rate adjustments for 2022: Volume Total monthly charge W/O CEC Bagged Trash Construction Debris 35 Gallon $13.33/Month $2.08 per 30 gallons 65 Gallon $16.11/Month $20.28 Per yard 95 Gallon $19.85/Month Tennis Sanitation takes pride in providing great service to our customers. As part of providing great service, it is important that we pass-on these increases to maintain the quality service that you have come to expect. Best regards, e reg WUUe Teln,Kzs Tennis Sanitation Office: 651-459-1887 43 of 80 r r • City of Oak Park Heights 14168 Oak Park Blvd. N•Oak Park Heights,MN 55082 •Phone (651) 439-4439•Fax(651) 439-0574 11/22/21 Ms. Mary Losby 5291 Nolan Parkway Stillwater, MN 55082 RE: Airplane Noise—Lake Elmo Airport Dear Mary, Thank you for your phone call the other day about increased airplane noise—generally stemming from flight traffic at the Lake Elmo Airport. Unfortunately, the City has little authority of the airport and its general operations. We understand that there are nearly 30,000 takeoffs &landings at the site each year with 189 aircraft based on site. So it can be busy... These airports are essentially operated by the State of Minnesota—but further managed and overseen ty the MERTOPOLITAIN AIRPORT COMMISSION— Board of Commissioners who are appointed by the Governor. • At this time our representative is Rodney Skoog— 612-726-8191; Rodney.Skoog@mspmac.org • The Chair of the Commission is Rick King— 612-726-8181; Rick.King@mspmac.org • The Lake Elmo—Airport Manager is Phil Tiedeman— 763-717-0001 My best advice at this time is to reach out to these individuals and express your concerns. I am not sure what could be done or if there is a short-term issue pending. Also; you can file a NOISE COMPLAINT on their hotline (612-726-9411) or online at https://www.macnoise.com/our-neighbors/file-noise-complaint Please let me know what you may discover if anything. Thank you Eric Johnson City Administrator Cc: Weekly notes 44 of 80 LOCAL Here's why MnDOT took away a lane on Hwy. 62 in Edina For a few years,MnDOT converted the right shoulder of part of Crosstown 62 in Edina into a third traffic lane to relieve congestion. "It was heaven," one reader said. OCTOBER 31,2021-4:53PM A few years ago,the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT)put in a third lane on a short segment of westbound -1 -. Crosstown 62 in Edina to relieve congestion brought on by extra traffic using the highway while Interstate 35W was under construction. Tim Harlow MnDOT converted the right shoulder between Valley View Road OTIMSTRIB and Hwy.100 into a travel lane and marked it as"Exit Only," meaning it was dedicated for motorists exiting from the Crosstown onto northbound Hwy.100.Drivers like Courtney loved it. "It was heaven,"she said in an e-mail to the Drive. About a month ago,MnDOT took out the lane,and the Crosstown was back to its original configuration with just two lanes between Valley View and Hwy.100. "Why did MnDOT taunt us so?"Courtney asked. The Drive heard from several other readers who disapproved of the move and noted traffic flow has deteriorated since the"Exit Only"lane disappeared. "It's a traffic mess as cars are trying to merge onto westbound 62,and others are trying to get into the same lane to exit to northbound 100,"Drive reader Grant observed. Andrew asked if MnDOT might reconsider and bring back the third lane. TIM HARLOW,STAR TRIBUNE Unfortunately that is not in the cards,said MnDOT spokesman David Aeikens. MnDOT has returned westbound Crosstown to "The shoulders are not built to handle traffic long term,"he said,noting asphalt on the two lanes between Valley View Road and Hwy. shoulder is laid much thinner than the100 in Edina. pavement in regular traffic lanes and is not strong enough to become a permanent lane. Another reason the shoulder won't become a permanent traffic lane is MnDOT would have to do an environmental study to learn the impact it would have,Aeikens said. The same thing occurred along westbound I-394 between downtown Minneapolis and Hwy.100,where MnDOT converted a shoulder into a fourth lane when the ramps from eastbound I-94 to southbound I-35W and northbound I-35W to westbound I-94 were closed during construction.The agency added the extra lane to accommodate thousands of motorists detoured onto westbound I-394 during the closures. 45 of 80 When both ramps opened in September,and construction on I-35W ended,MnDOT returned I-394 to its original three-lane configuration. When will 7th Street ramp open? Commuters on eastbound I-94 lost a critical entry point into downtown Minneapolis in midsummer when the ramp to 4th Street closed and drivers were directed to the 7th Street ramp.At the time,MnDOT said it would be closed for up to 40 days. As summer rolled into fall,the ramp carrying up to 18,000 vehicles a day,according to 2019 traffic counts,remains closed and could be for another month. MnDOT is resurfacing the bridge and repairing joints and ran into"some material delays,"Acikens said. "We fmally got the part[for the bridge joint]we needed in September,"he said. Crews also found an old bridge beam that had deteriorated and needed work,so MnDOT is fixing that,too,he said. On top of that,the ramp closed for most of the summer for an Xcel Energy project, Aeikens said. "We want that ramp open as much as anyone,"he said."Unfortunately,it has not worked out that way.We will get that ramp open as soon as we can." Follow news about traffic and commuting-at The Drive on startribune.com.Got traffic or transportation questions,or story ideas?E-mail drive@startribune.com,tweet @stribdrive or call Tim Harlow at 612-673-7768. Tim Harlow covers traffic and transportation issues in the Minneapolis-St.Paul area,and likes to get out of the office,even during rush hour.He also covers the suburbs in northern Hennepin and all of Anoka counties,plus breaking news and weather. tim.harlow@startribune.com 612-673-7768 @timstrib 46 of 80 Eric Johnson From: Mary Mccomber <marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Wednesday, November 24, 2021 9:10 AM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: Future of Cities: Reimagining Public Space to Support Main Street Retail For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: National League of Cities (NLC) <membership@nlc.org> To: marymccomber@aol.com Sent: Wed, Nov 24, 2021 8:09 am Subject: Future of Cities: Reimagining Public Space to Support Main Street Retail Access your weekly N LC member roundup! NLCNATIONAL OF CITIES Member • • November 24, 2021 Midwest Region mm dw 111:!1;11116 � }w.J.� �1 111 1111111 66' . �wey Future of Cities: Reimagining Public Space to Support Main Street Retail The pandemic changed the way we think about public space. This new guide explains how local leaders can build on changes that grew popular during the pandemic, like street closures & outdoor dining, to reimagine public space in ways that meet all residents' needs and support equitable economic development. Upcoming i 47 of 80 Q&A with Indigenous Municipal Officials Monday, Nov. 29 -3:OOPM ET 4 Hear from Indigenous municipal officials who are citizens of a I First Nation. REGISTER HERE > City Innovation Ecosystems Speaker Series: Mapping Your Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Tuesday, Nov. 30 -3:OOPM ET Experts discuss the role ecosystem mapping can play in expanding economic opportunity for entrepreneurs of color. .. REGISTER HERE > ii 4Wft ! 1 Innovation in Workforce Development: Securing Quality Jobs Through Employee Ownership Tuesday, Dec. 7 -1:OOPM ET This webinar will highlight how cities can deliver quality jobs using strategies that support employee ownership. REGISTER HERE > A Digital Equity Playbook: How City Leaders Can Bridge the Digital Divide Thursday, Dec. 9 -1:OOPM ET Join NLC for a discussion on the digital divide and how the new Digital Equity Playbook can help cities close the "m broadband access gap. REGISTER HERE > View All Events 2 48 of 80 j h.• M1 HT1 CONNECT WITH PEERS ACROSS THE COUNTRY Committee. ilk APPLICATIONS member Council or If NOW OPEN +T Constituency Group The Data Cities Need to Increasing Quality Understand & Address Their Employment for Residents Eviction Crises Download this new brief in the Equitable Data is critical to municipal eviction Economic Mobility Initiative (EEMI), a prevention efforts. This article highlights two-year project intended to catalyze three cities that are leveraging better municipal action to expand economic data to prevent evictions and offers mobility for residents while eliminating recommendations for cities to improve longstanding racial economic inequities. local data access. NATIONAL CONGRESSIONAL • rcl NLCLEAGUE 14-16 OF CITIESCITY CONFERENCE PRE-CONFERENCEEXEC:LJTIVE EDUCATION AND 3 49 of 80 Thanks for reading the latest articles and events from the NLC, where local leaders and their staff go to learn and grow. 'Til next time! Sincerely, _ Alejandra Piers-Torres 10 Midwest Member Engagement Manager, NLC piers-torres@nlc.org Helpful NLC Links: Articles Upcoming Events Resources &Training Advocacy COVID-19 Relief Resources Member Solution Partners If this message is not displaying properly, please view in browser. NLCNATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES C 171E5 STRONG TOG ETHIER You may opt out of email communications from NLC at any time. Update your communication preferences or unsubscribe. This message was intended for: marymccomber@aol.com. Manage preferences here. 660 North Capitol Street, NW, Suite 450, Washington, DC 20001 Privacy Policy I ©2021 NLC, All Rights Reserved Powered by Higher Logic 4 50 of 80 Eric Johnson From: Mary Mccomber <marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2021 2:49 PM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: Cities are Ready to Rebuild! For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: National League Of Cities (NLC) <advocacy@nlc.org> To: marymccomber@aol.com Sent: Tue, Nov 30, 2021 1:06 pm Subject: Cities are Ready to Rebuild! Federal Advocacy Newsletter-Tuesday,November 30 NLCNATIONAI LEAGUE OF FederalAdvocacy Cities are Ready to Rebuild ! On Monday, November 15, NLC leadership attended the White House signing ceremony for the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). This bipartisan infrastructure bill includes $550 billion in new federal investments in America's infrastructure, adding an estimated two million jobs per year to the national economy. Learn more about the opportunities this legislation creates by using our interactive dashboard. This resource is exclusive to NLC members. To access this resource, please log in to your myNLC account. Y , NLC Applauds House New NLC President and ARPA Assistance for Utility Passage of Build Back Board Members Elected Bills Not Considered Better Act Taxable Income 51 of 80 Response and Recovery On The Frontlines of Today's Cities: Trauma, Challenges and Solutions Local officials work at the level of government closest to the people, and with that comes great responsibility and great challenge. While public officials at the state and federal level have faced harassment and threats for decades, this trend has now made its way to cities, with local leaders on the frontlines of these challenges. Learn More > The Data Cities Need to Understand & Address Their Eviction C rises On September 24, 2021, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro and Congressman Jake Auchincloss introduced the `We Need Eviction Data Now' Act of 2021.This legislation proposes that a national eviction database be created to standardize data and track evictions and a federal advisory committee be established to guide the process and make policy recommendations. Learn More > Rebuild Department of Transportation Webinars The department of transportation is hosting a series of briefings and listening sessions on the new bipartisan infrastructure bill. • Federal Transit Administration, Wednesday Dec 1 st @ 4:00-5:00 PM EST. o Register Here > • Federal Highway Administration, Thursday, Dec 2nd @ 3:45 -5:00 PM EST. o Register Here > • Federal Railroad Administration, Friday, Dec 3rd @ 1:30—2:15 PM EST. o Register Here > • Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration (FMCSA) & Maritime Administration (MARAD), Tuesday, Dec 7th @ 2:30 -3:15 PM EST. o Register Here > • Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Wednesday, Dec 8th 1:00 — 1:45 PM EST. o Register Here > 2 52 of 80 • National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA)/Pipeline & Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) Thursday, Dec 9th @ 11:00 AM — 11:45 AM EST. o Register Here > • Office of the Secretary— Innovation & Safe Streets for All Friday, Dec 10th @ 2:00 —3:00 PM EST, o Register Here > • Office of the Secretary— Infrastructure Financing & Permitting, Tuesday, Dec 14th @ 2:30 —3:30 PM EST. o Register Here > Infrastructure Bill to Benefit Cities, Towns and Villages Local leaders from across the country shared what the bipartisan infrastructure bill means for their communities. Learn More > Webinar: What the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Means for the Water Sector United for Infrastructure is hosting a webinar with EPA Assistant Administrator Radhika Fox on Wednesday, December 1, at 12:OOPM EST. Register Here > Notice of Funding Opportunities Department of Agriculture - Community Forest Program. Closing Date: 1/10/2022. Apply Here > Department of Commerce -American Rescue Plan Act Good Jobs Challenge. Closing Date: 1/26/2022. Apply Here > Federal Emergency Management Agency- Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities. Closing Date: 1/28/2022. 3 53 of 80 Apply Here > Department of Agriculture - Rural Development Broadband ReConnect Program. Closing Date: 2/22/2022. Apply Here > Economic Development Administration - American Rescue Plan Act Economic Adjustment Assistance. Closing Date: 3/31/2022. Apply Here > 1%446., NATIONAL ` March �` LEAGUE ' • NLCOF CITIESCITY CONFERENCE EXECUTIVE EDUCATION AND PRE-CONFERENCE ACTIVITIES MARCH 12-13, 2022 Helpful NLC Links: Articles Upcoming Events In Resources & Training Advocacy If this message is not displaying properly, please view the online version. NLCNATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES C171ES STRONG TOGETHER 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 ©2021 NLC, All Rights Reserved 4 54 of 80 Eric Johnson From: Mary Mccomber <marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Wednesday, December 1, 2021 9:12 AM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: NLC Commemorates Native American Heritage Month For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: National League of Cities (NLC) <membership@nlc.org> To: marymccomber@aol.com Sent: Wed, Dec 1, 2021 8:10 am Subject: NLC Commemorates Native American Heritage Month Access your weekly N LC member roundup! NLCNATIONAL LEAGUE • December121 - Midwest Region r NLC Commemorates Native American Heritage Month To cap off Native American Heritage Month, NLC hosted a conversation among Indigenous municipal officials about their experience serving in local government as a citizen of a First Nation. Hear from Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt, Councilmember Doreen Garlid of Tempe, AZ and Alder Arvina Martin of Madison, WI what community issues are top of mind and how government affects the lives of Native peoples. i 55 of 80 Upcoming dw - Innovation in Workforce Development: Securing Quality Jobs Through Employee Ownership Tuesday, Dec. 7 -1:OOPM ET This webinar will highlight how cities can deliver quality jobs using strategies that support employee ownership. REGISTER HERE > tl. New Member Orientation Wednesday, Dec. 8 - 12:OOPM ET New to NLC? Listen in on our 30-minute orientation and learn about how your membership benefits your city. REGISTER HERE > Innovative Perspectives on Municipal Recovery Thursday, Dec. 9 -12:OOPM ET NLC will host a panel of young municipal leaders to hear how they are shaping this historical moment and what rebuilding communities looks like. z REGISTER HERE > A Digital Equity Playbook: How City Leaders Can Bridge the Digital Divide Thursday, Dec. 9 -1:OOPM ET Join NLC for a discussion on the digital divide and how the { new Digital Equity Playbook can help cities close the broadband access gap. REGISTER HERE > View All Events 2 56 of 80 I CONGRESSIONAL NA70NAL March NLCLEAGUE 14-16 OF CITIESCITY CONFERENCE PRE-CONFERENCEEXECUTIVE EDUCATION AND Future of Cities: Reimagining Tracking State Preemption Public Space to Support Main 2019: The Pre-Pandemic Street Retail Landscape The pandemic changed the way we think about public space. This guide explains The past year has underscored how how local leaders can build on changes critical local leadership and policy is in that grew popular during the pandemic to advancing public health, as well as the reimagine public space in ways that complex challenges facing communities meet all residents' needs and support when local authority is stripped. This equitable economic development. brief details the pre-pandemic preemption landscape. + 1 Creating Space, Sharing Knowledge: The Power of 3 57 of 80 Municipal Indigenous ARPA Assistance for Utility Officials Bills Not Considered Taxable NLC member and indigenous municipal Income official Councilmember April Fournier shares what inspired her to enter public The Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal service and how her heritage has Recovery Fund (SLFRF) allowed local influenced her work. governments to provide direct cash transfers to residents for utility bills. The IRS clarified that direct cash transfers made by a locality with SLFRF monies are not included in gross income of the recipient. Thanks for reading the latest articles and events from the NLC, where local leaders and their staff go to learn and grow. 'Til next time! Sincerely, Alejandra Piers-Torres Midwest Member Engagement Manager, NLC piers-torres@nlc.org Helpful NLC Links: Articles Upcoming Events Resources &Training Advocacy COVID-19 Relief Resources 4 58 of 80 Member Solution Partners If this message is not displaying properly, please view in browser. NLCNATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES CITIES STRONG,TOGETHER You may opt out of email communications from NLC at any time. Update your communication preferences or unsubscribe. This message was intended for: marymccomber@aol.com. Manage preferences here. 660 North Capitol Street, NW, Suite 450, Washington, DC 20001 Privacy Policy I @ 2021 NLC, All Rights Reserved Powered by Higher Logic 5 59 of 80 CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS RESOLUTION 20-12-56 A RESOLUTION APPROVING APPOINTMENTS FOR THE CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS IN 2021 BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council for the City of Oak Park Heights hereby appoints the following for 2021: Deputy Mayor(Mayor Pro-tem): Chuck Dougherty Civil Defense Director: Steve Hansen Parks Commission Liaison: Carly Johnson Parks Commission Liaison Alternate: Mike Liljegren Planning Commission Liaison: Mike Liljegren Planning Conunission Liaison Alteniate: Chuck Dougherty Cable Commission—Council: Chuck Dougherty Cable Commission—Alternate: Mike Liljegren Cable Commission—Citizen: Graham Arntzen Middle St. Croix WMO: Mike Runk Middle St. Croix WMO Alternate: Carly Johnson Brown's Creek Citizen Rep: Chuck LeRoux CVB Liaison: Mike Runk CVB Alternate: Carly Johnson Coalition of Utilities Cities: Mary McComber Coalition of Utilities Cities Alternate: Chuck Dougherty Coalition of Utilities Cities 2nd Alternate: Jennifer Pinski Data Compliance: Betty Caruso Lower St. Croix River Advisory: Carly Johnson Lower St. Croix River Advisory Alternate: Mike Runk JAZB —Lake Elmo Airport: Mary McComber and Mike Liljegren JAZB —Lake Elmo Airport Alternate: Jim Kremer Passed by the City Council of Oak Park Heights this 8th day of December, 2020. Mary McCornber, Mayor ATTEST: Eric A. Johnson, City Administrator 60 of 80 Eric Johnson From: Mary Mccomber <marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Wednesday, December 1, 2021 9:05 AM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: Chamber HOLIDAY MIXER 2021-Be our Guest! Thursday, December 16thT at Lake Elmo Inn Event Center For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce <communications@GreaterStillwaterChamber.com> To: marymccomber@aol.com Sent: Wed, Dec 1, 2021 8:14 am Subject: Chamber HOLIDAY MIXER 2021-Be our Guest! Thursday, December 16th(3 at Lake Elmo Inn Event Center It's the most wonderful time of the year.... to Jingle & Mingle! RSVP Now! View this email in your browser 1 61 of 80 ' T IS T HE SEASON TO BE JOLLY ! JOIN T1s FOR THE CHAMBER'S HO-HO-HOLIDAY MIXER 61- Dae PfFSP THURSDAY , D E C E M BE R 1 6 4 : 3 0 - 7 : 0 0 P M � r ' : 0 J Be our Guest for our annual Chamber Holiday Mixer! Thursday, December 16th - 4:30 pm - 7:00 pm Lake Elmo Inn Event Center A time to appreciate the spirit of the Holidays, enjoy each other's company, and reflect on the silver linings of 2021 . 2 62 of 80 Special Guest: Santa! / Holiday Apps & Cocktails Festive music with Vinnie Rose / Chamber Updates Connect with Members / Community Give Back for the Holidays RSVP Now! Chamber Member, Spouse and Family members ages 3-16 are no charge. Non-Chamber members and adult guests are $20. Heavy appetizers will be served. Cash bar. This year we would like you to be our Guest and bring your family! Kids are welcome! Santa will be visiting and complimentary family photo opportunities will be available from Monroe Film & Photo. r� ....r f ,/ 11 7. l 3 63 of 80 Cq& THE CONNECT CENTER To extend the Holiday Spirit, the Chamber will be collecting gift cards at the Holiday Mixer, to be donated to The Connect Center, a fellow Chamber member and local nonprofit that provides help for youth with unstable housing and low-income families for a more secure and connected life. Please donate to our Gift Card Drive—we will be accepting donations of gift cards for groceries, Walmart, Target, gas, and fast food restaurants. Give back to your community for the holidays! Very much appreciated! We Ho-Ho-Hope you can Join Us! GREATER STILLWATER CHAMBER, of COMMERCE I � r. ; ..;._+ t� .�- �i 4 64 of 80 *This Mixer also serves as the general membership meeting with the Chamber board, at 4:00 p.m. Optional to attend by Chamber members. Copyright©2021 Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce, All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce 333 N. Main Street, #202 Stillwater, MN 55082 Add us to your address book Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list 5 65 of 80 Eric Johnson From: Mary Mccomber <marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Tuesday, November 23, 2021 1:38 PM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: Conversations of the Valley-Fascinating Topic! For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: Stacey Rivard <srivard@scvfoundation.org> To: marymccomber@aol.com Sent: Tue, Nov 23, 2021 1:13 pm Subject: Conversations of the Valley-Fascinating Topic! Can't see this message?View in a browser T. CROIX VALLEY FOUNDATION 1 Conversations of the Valley r AN 7 c � L h } 1 66 of 80 Join us to discover how intentionally fostering an attachment to PLACE can impact economic growth, attract and retain residents, and build thriving communities. "Making the Case for Place!" What does PLACEMAKING mean for a community? Why is it important? How does attachment to place relate to economic growth and opportunity? What can you do, in your community, to develop PLACE? Speaker: Dr. Katherine Loflin,"The City Doctor" -Lead expert on the Knight Foundation Soul of the Community project Via Zoom (Link will be emailed following your registration) Wed. Jan 12, 2022 12 noon - 1:00 pm There is no fee for this event. • I � There is NO FEE for this event. z 67 of 80 Coming Uo In The Series 'The Built Environment" Wed. Feb 9, 2022 Featuring the Hon. John Robert Smith Planning for the future now...because the way our communities are planned, designed, and built has an enormous impact on how well we ALL live. "Building a Welcoming Community" Wed. Mar 9, 2022 Featuring panelists from the UofM and International Institute of MN Why is it important for communities to be welcoming? What resources are available to make your community more welcoming? Who is coming to our region and why are they important to building a thriving community? "Creative Placemaking" Wed. Apr 13, 2022 Featuring Jennifer Hughes, Nat/Endowment for the Arts Laura Zabel, Springboard for the Arts How do the arts contribute to economic growth, transform neighborhoods, and help connect people to PLACE? Thank you to First State Bank & Trust, our series sponsor, for helping to make this program possible. F I RST STATE - BAN A DTRUST 3 68 of 80 Eric Johnson From: Mary Mccomber <marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2021 10:15 AM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: Minnesota Local Road Research Board News & Updates For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: LRRB <Irrb.dot@public.govdelivery.com> To: marymccomber@aol.com Sent: Tue, Nov 30, 2021 7:30 am Subject: Minnesota Local Road Research Board News & Updates Having trouble viewing this email?View it as a Web page Local Road Research Board News . - .- New Resource for Manhole and Catch Basin Installation MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS — This Local Road n Research Board project updated information about ...may manhole and catch basin installation and maintenance. Y Municipal engineers shared their current practices, product preferences and specifications for these .w facilities.The resulting report includes current information about construction practices, products to seal joints and surfaces against water infiltration, and effective methods to backfill and compact soil around new installations to prevent the soil from settling and heaving. K� i 69 of 80 Report 2021RIC04 New Tools and Training Help Local Agencies Meet Workforce Needs Local transportation agencies in Minnesota are facing a growing workforce shortage. The LRRB recently sponsored a project to help expand the ^ transportation workforce and fill open positions— , today and tomorrow. The 'Expanding the Transportation Workforce' project, led by Minnesota LTAP, created two sets of tools: One set helps local agencies attract and retain workers in the short term, while another set helps agencies promote career opportunities to students and feed the longer-term worker pipeline. The project was guided by a technical advisory panel of experienced transportation professionals representing local agencies and private firms from around the state, as well as workforce leaders and technical school representatives. "The workforce is changing rapidly across all industries," says Chris Byrd, county engineer in Benton County and the project's technical liaison. "Those of us in the transportation industry can see a great need for skilled workers in the future. The Expanding the Transportation Workforce project has created and identified tools that transportation industry professionals can use to excite and inspire individuals to work in our industry." Check out these new resources on the LTAP website. Additional materials, geared specifically at youth, are on the LRRB's "Careers in Civil Engineering" website. 2022 Idea Solicitation Moves Forward Thank you to everyone who has shared ideas for new LRRB research and training projects or volunteered to serve on advisory panels for upcoming projects. In October, over 100 ideas for next year's funding cycle were identified during pre- screening board meetings. In addition to city and county engineers, maintenance staff also participated in these idea sessions for the first time! These ideas will be supplemented by additional suggestions that came in via the IdeaScale website. City and county engineers, watch for a December e-mail from State Aid where you can vote on the submitted ideas to help the LRRB prioritize funding for future research projects. 2 70 of 80 Effects of COVID-19 on Driver Safety TRAFFIC& SAFETY— The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in fewer drivers on Minnesota's roads, but also more speeding and other unsafe behavior. Quantifying these behaviors should help Minnesota's transportation agencies plan effective countermeasures. Researchers analyzed vehicle volume and speed data from 27 automated traffic recording (ATR) stations and 68 traffic sensor stations from March through December 2020. They compared this information to data from the previous year as well as work zone information from the Minnesota state highway construction projects list and citation rates, and interviews with Minnesota law enforcement. Traffic volumes were lower in 85% of ATR sites and all sensor sites. Speeds were higher overall but varied by month, with speeds in July and April reaching nearly 3% higher. Speeding-related crashes were 2%to 5% higher in five districts, and speeding-related crashes that resulted in serious injuries or fatalities increased 4%to 13% in four districts. Report 2021-21 Innovative Materials and Technologies for Sustainable Pavement Infrastructure MATERIALS& _ CONSTRUCTION — TwoNil innovative materials—graphiteAIL nanoplatelets and taconite , concentrates—were examined for their ability to allow early detection of pavement damage when they were added to asphalt binder mixtures. Using microwave energy to heal early pavement cracking was also reviewed.Through extensive testing, researchers made progress toward early damage detection and notable success in healing damaged pavements with microwave energy. The treated pavement samples containing small amounts of these novel materials were restored to their original condition and strength in the laboratory. More study is indicated. Report 2021-18 Using Noise Barriers and Snow Fencing to Capture Solar Energy 3 71 of 80 ENVIRONMENTAL — A research team examined the 'rY possibility of adding photovoltaic panels to MnDOT i and local agency structures in the highway right of way to generate electricity that could offset installation costs and eventually generate revenue for other purposes. Team members designed and -, constructed a prototype system combining anoise barrier and a snow fence with solar panels. Laboratory testing and computer modeling indicated positive results in terms of safety, performance and cost–benefit analysis. Researchers propose constructing a quarter mile field project in northern Minnesota to further test the system. Report 2021-20 Training: Roadway Design Using AutoCAD and Civil 3D Minnesota LTAP developed a new training series: Roadway Design Using AutoCAD and Civil 3D. The series introduces students to the elements of roadway design and shows how to use AutoCAD and Civil 3D to create a set of CADD drawings for a two-lane county road. The series consists of three units: • AutoCAD Skills and Construction Concepts (instructor-led) • Introduction to Roadway Design (self-paced) • Civil 3D Practical Application (instructor-led) AutoCAD and Civil 3D Practical Application classes include live virtual sessions with an instructor.The Introduction to Roadway Design class will be delivered so that students can complete it at their own pace. AutoCAD classes began in November and run through mid-January. Registration is open for the Civil 3D Practical Application class, which begins in late January and runs through mid-April. Introduction to Roadway Design will be available soon. Classes may be taken independently. Minnesota LTAP Workshops and Events MnDOT Mobile Snowplow Simulator Training Available to Local Maintenance Workers 4 72 of 80 From September 2021 to June 2022, MnDOT's mobile simulator will be traveling around Minnesota, offering on-site training for city, county and state snowplow operators. The training is designed for new or veteran drivers, allowing them to improve their ability to recognize and react to a variety of road conditions and hazards to better manage risk. The interactive driving simulation system includes two simulators housed in a 32-foot self-contained trailer with a classroom slideout, enabling the training to take place at any location. MnDOT offers two separate four-hour lessons focused on snowplow operators: one on snowplows and speed and one on snowplow handling and underbody usage. MnDOT Mobile Snowplow Simulator Training Subscribe to New Research Projects for Alerts Check out our newest research projects that are just getting started. See a topic you're interested in? Visit the project page and "Subscribe for Updates" to receive email alerts when findings are available. • MnDOT Haul/Detour Routes- Impacts on Local Roads (LRRB) • Cost Estimate B vs C Grade Asphalt Binders (LRRB) • Pavement Marking/Colored Pavement Friction Differential and Product Durability (LRRB & MnDOT) • Evaluation of Proprietary Rejuvenators (LRRB) • Designing an Autonomous Service to Cover Transit Last Mile in Low-Density Areas (LRRB) Upcoming Events • TRB Webinar: Pavement Maintenance Before Preservation (Nov: 22) • TRB Webinar: Paving the Way Toward Carbon-Neutral Concrete (Nov. 29) • LTAP Workshop: Minnesota's Best Practices for Traffic Sign Maintenance and Management (Jan. 13) • MnROAD Webinar: Understanding and Improving Pavement Milling Operations (Jan. 18) • LTAP Workshop: Asphalt Pavement Rehabilitation—Products, Processes, and Strategies (LTAP: Feb. 9, 10 15) 5 73 of 80 • MnROAD Webinar: Spray on Rejuvenator Test Sections (Feb. 15) MnDOT invites and encourages participation by all.If you need an ASL,a foreign language interpreter,or other reasonable accommodation,or need documents in an alternative format(such as braille or large print),please email your request to Janet Miller at ADArequest.dotL7a state.mn.us or call 651-366-4720. Minnesota Local Road Research Board • Irrb.org Stay Connected with the Minnesota Local Road Research Board: El In a MnDOT's Social Media Hub>> SUBSCRIBER SERVICES: Manage Subscriptions I Unsubscribe All I Help This email was sent to marymccomber@aol.com using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Minnesota Department of Transportation -395 John Ireland Blvd -Saint Paul,MN 55155 gOVDELIVERY 6 74 of 80 Eric Johnson From: Mary Mccomber <marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Friday, December 3, 2021 8:30 AM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: Dec. 2021 EMWREP Education Updates Attachments: image005.png; image003.png For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: Angie Hong <AHong@mnwcd.org> To: Angie Hong <AHong@mnwcd.org>; Barbara Heitkamp<BHeitkamp@mnwcd.org> Cc: algoodri@hotmail.com <algoodri@hotmail.com> Sent: Thu, Dec 2, 2021 6:33 pm Subject: Dec. 2021 EMWREP Education Updates Hello East Metro Water Education partners - Barbara and I are currently in the process of meeting one-on-one with each of your organizations to begin planning for 2022. In the meantime, read on for December's education highlights. Angie Program Updates: 1. EMWREP and Lower St. Croix accolades 2. SMART Salting Workshops - Dec. 8, 9 and 14 3. Shoreland Guide to Lake Stewardship 4. MS4 Education — MS4 Toolkit website updates complete! 5. East Metro Water— Read the latest articles published in the blog and local newspapers 6. TikTok don't stop —Watch some of our most recent popular videos EMWREP and Lower St. Croix accolades: EMWREP and the Lower St. Croix Partnership are getting lots of attention for the work we do together. *MN Board of Water and Soil Resources - December 2021 Snapshots This month's BWSR Snapshots highlights EMWREP as an excellent example of shared services for conservation implementation. "Over the past 15 years, EMWREP programming has led to nearly 2,000 water-quality improvement projects on public and private land; 751 storm drains adopted in Washington County; 20 volunteers trained as Minnesota Water Stewards; 14 volunteers trained as Aquatic Invasive Species Detectors; 780 articles about water in weekly newspapers; and more than 1,000 people educated at workshops each year." Due to the success of EMWREP, Lower St. Croix partners are now using state funds to expand our shared education model with a focus on outreach to farmers, shoreline landowners, and land use decision-makers. Read BWSR's summary here. *Association of Minnesota Counties — 2021 County Conservation Award The 2021 Association of Minnesota Counties Executive Committee has selected the Lower St. Croix Watershed Partnership to receive a County Conservation Award that will be presented at the 2021 AMC Annual Conference on Dec. 8. This annual award is given in partnership with Minnesota BWSR to recognize leadership, innovation, and excellence by counties in protecting or improving their i 75 of 80 natural resources. This year's award will recognize the leadership provided by Anoka, Chisago, Isanti, Pine and Washington Counties in helping to bring together a 16-member partnership, forging relationships that cross the urban-rural divide, and working collaboratively to protect and improve the St. Croix River, groundwater, lakes, streams, rivers, wetlands, and upland habitat in the Lower St. Croix watershed. *Open Rivers Journal — Issue 19, Fall 2021 Water? I've got a story about that Open Rivers. Rethinking Water, Place & Community is an interdisciplinary online journal by University of Minnesota that "recognizes rivers in general, and the Mississippi River in particular, as space for timely and critical conversations about the intersections between biophysical systems and human systems." This fall, Angie was invited to write about the EMWREP program and, specifically, how her weekly blog and news column helps us to build relationships with the public for the watershed protection and restoration work that we do. Read the article here *Racket: This Minnesota Environmental Educator is Blowing up on TikTok Racket is a new online culture and news site, founded by former editors at City Pages. This November, editor Jay Boller interviewed Angie about her experience launching the (a)-mnnature awesomeness TikTok account. "TikTok afforded Hong the opportunity to take her IRL lessons outside the classroom and into Minnesota's lakes, rivers, prairies, and forests." Read the article here. *CNET: "TikTok goes wild: Meet the adventurers taking you into the great outdoors" Our (a)-mnnature awesomeness account was also featured in an article by CNET, an American media website that publishes reviews, news, articles, blogs, podcasts, and videos on technology and consumer electronics globally. Read the article here. P"Mcr ovs WATEe P"M :% r Pai.I vn" SMART Salting Workshops SMART Salting for Parking Lots and Sidewalks Leave and give plow spaceto d,drive eir Tuesday, December 9 - Register HERE . _ you SMART Salting for Roads Just bt see salt on the .a .- Tuesday, December 14 - Register HERE hasn't been applied,Salt takes time to work, SMART Salting Assessment Tool — Level 2 Certification ,. Wednesday, Dec. 8 — Register HERE onureidnci UuWc'e to Lake Stewardship Snofeland Guide to Lake Stewardship Several partners have expressed an interest in a guidebook for lake associations and shoreland landowners, specifically tailored to your county or watershed. Happily, just such a thing exists in Itasca County. r This winter, Barbara will be working with interested partners to tailor the existing guide for your area. Stay tuned for more info soon. MS4 L6ucation: MS4 T oolkit web updates caiiiplete� z 76 of 80 At long last, MPCA staff have uploaded all of the new resources that EMWREP created for the MS4 Toolkit in 2018-2020. The toolkit can be found within the Minnesota Stormwater Manual here. The toolkit includes fact sheets, videos, photos, and other education materials to help meet requirements in the MS4 Stormwater Permit. Content is organization by Minimum Control Measure (1-6) and topic. Take a moment to check it out. If you have a stormwater education need, chances are the resources you need will be in the toolkit! East Metro Water: Read the latest articles published in the blog and local newspapers www.eastmetrowater.org Wetland in your yard? - Nov. 4, 2021 "Wetlands protect nearby homes from flooding and help to reduce shoreline erosion along the edges of rivers and lakes. If you have a wetland on or near your property, however, you may need to make some changes in your landscaping and seasonal yard care." PFAS contamination works its way to the St. Croix River — Nov. 11 , 2021 "Six water bodies in Washington County will likely be added to the state's impaired waters list due to perfluorinated alkylated substances (PFAS), also known as the "forever chemical." The affected waters include Tanners Lake (Oakdale), Eagle Point wetland and H.J. Brown Pond (Lake Elmo Park Reserve), Clear Lake (City of Forest Lake) and the St. Croix River/Lake St. Croix from Taylors Falls to Prescott." Fifty-three Minnesota lakes and streams to be de-listed in 2022 — Nov. 18, 2021 "Local lakes scheduled to be delisted next year include East Boot (May Twp), Echo (Mahtomedi), Hay and Jellums (Scandia), Lily and South Twin (Stillwater), and Plaisted (Hugo)." Give me a home where the bees and butterflies roam — Nov. 26, 2021 "A native plant revival is underway and Lawns to Legumes grants are here to help." Fossils, glaciers, and the water we drink — Dec. 1 , 2021 "Groundwater provides 100 percent of the drinking water for people in Washington County and 70 percent of the drinking water in Minnesota." TikTok don't stop: Watch some of our most recent popular videos (a)-mnnature awesomeness 3 77 of 80 The second is t =like most salamanders 1 _, �s rnnnature_awesfo... 5tlrice! *o• #nature#leaves#salamander !7 iginal sound.ninnature_ 22.OK views,121 shares More data „ f J so there will now be 26 7fir .�< • ' Fakes and streams in the i state of Minnesota 1876 @mn ""a G:rnnnature aweso--. The ter 000 QrJnr+aF?n�ij. . � �;� •�• desi R4f,,r Rr Ply to •chadt)enji which oric., and more .4o y"gill like the best?...See more f] (-)Louis Prima Pennir W l 3=101"Q'". More data L 3SAK views, 53 shares More data 01 w'IjYI 2 -Al A Options for a kid-friendly stiff 5s6 yard that also incorporates Nor is always happy to native plants? have people to her property 104. 194 .: rx�nrl6tture_�w so.:. @mnnature_aweso_ 11 17 ,�,."�.ih., m a•k' '� •+R� a'�'�25y1!:f�'GiifL1�^r'�R!l lt��l C1 c�ka1J�L'r11..., t\* F only To +�rd� i_'` he,e 6rE =d i1 y tv ejosepft e I m +',r c:F Streik c ir.s r6r si ki.,.See more iY. working on a follow up...See more n .crneneJ] sound-rnnnature_awese .' L 48.8K vic,4v>, 52: t,i!nres More data 34.31K views, 175 shares More data ,� tr•r' + t .r •J i The real magic of a prairie 44_3 plant doesn't happen above ground � 1?S @m n n Stu Ica neith 'n 0'r,den thi 1P be my last video about PT #prairie#natio...See mo awesomeness o 1 ;K vi s,109 shares re data Please call or email if you have any questions. Thank you! Angie Hong Water Education Senior Specialist East Metro Water Resource Education Program Representing Brown's Creek, Carnelian Marine-St. Croix, Comfort Lake - Forest Lake, Middle St. Croix, Ramsey- Washington Metro, Rice Creek, South Washington and Valley Branch Watersheds, Bayport, Cottage Grove, Dellwood, Forest Lake, Grant, Lake Elmo, Hugo, Newport, Oak Park Heights, Oakdale, Stillwater, St. Paul Park, Willernie, West Lakeland, Woodbury, Washington County and the Washington Conservation District C/O: Washington Conservation District 455 Hayward Ave. Oakdale, MN 55128 angie.honQa-mnwcd.org Phone: (952) 261-9599 cell www.mnwcd.or.q/emwrep STAY IN TOUCH: Blog: www.eastmetrowater.org Facebook mnwcd YouTube aWashington Conservation District or aAngie Hong MN Nature Awesom ness TikTok a-mnnature awesomeness Instagram @wcd mn or aangiehongmn Or check out our Virtual Tour to preview outdoor adventures in and around Washington County. 6 80 of 80