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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016/02/22 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - City Council - Study SessionAGENDA FEBRUARY 22, 2016 5:30 p.m. CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION: BOARDS & COMMISSIONS ANNUAL MEETING - Rec Center (3rd Floor Banquet Room) 5:30 p.m. Welcome & Thank You from Mayor Spano (Light dinner to follow) Boards & Commissions Presentations 1. 6:00 p.m. Board of Zoning Appeals (BOZA) 2. 6:20 p.m. Housing Authority 3. 6:40 p.m. Telecommunications Advisory Commission 4. 7:00 p.m. Police Advisory Commission 7:20 p.m. Intermission 5. 7:30 p.m. Human Rights Commission 6. 7:50 p.m. Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission 7. 8:10 p.m. Planning Commission 8. 8:30 p.m. Environment & Sustainability Commission 8:50 p.m. City Council Closing Comments & Wrap-Up Written Reports 9. January 2016 Monthly Financial Report 9:00 p.m. Adjourn Auxiliary aids for individuals with disabilities are available upon request. To make arrangements, please call the Administration Department at 952/924-2525 (TDD 952/924-2518) at least 96 hours in advance of meeting. Meeting: Study Session Meeting Date: February 22, 2016 Presentation: 1 – 8 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY TITLE: Boards & Commissions Annual Meeting Presentations RECOMMENDED ACTION: Not applicable. SUMMARY: A representative from each of the following St. Louis Park Boards & Commissions will present their annual report to the City Council.  Board of Zoning Appeals (BOZA)  Housing Authority  Telecommunications Advisory Commission  Police Advisory Commission  Human Rights Commission  Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission  Planning Commission  Environment & Sustainability Commission: Sustainable SLP Each representative will be allowed 20 minutes for their presentation and discussion with the Council. A maximum of 10 minutes will be allotted for a presentation that consists of a brief summary of this past year’s activities and an overview of 2 – 3 goals, activities or initiatives for the upcoming year. The remainder of the time will be designated for Council to ask questions, provide comments, and address follow-up requests. Following the presentations, Council has the option of scheduling a follow-up meeting with any specific Board/Commission if needed. FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: Not applicable. VISION CONSIDERATION: St. Louis Park is committed to being a connected and engaged community. SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: None Prepared by: Debbie Fischer, Administrative Services Office Assistant Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager 2015 Annual Report Board or Commission: Board of Zoning Appeals I. Board of Zoning Appeals (BOZA) members: Paul Roberts, Chair Justin Kaufman, Vice-Chair Henry Solmer, Board Member Susan Bloyer, Board Member James Gainsley, Board Member II. 2015 Goals and Key Initiatives: Responsibilities of the Board of Zoning Appeals (BOZA): The (BOZA) is charged with the responsibility of responding to request from residents and business owners for: 1. Variances to the regulations of the zoning ordinance, 2. Appeals from any order, decision, or interpretation of the text of the zoning ordinance made by staff. The BOZA may also act in an advisory capacity on matters referred to it by the city council. Section IV provides a summary of the BOZA actions resulting from applications received in 2015. 2015 Annual Report Board or Commission: Board of Zoning Appeals III. Variance Applications Received Since 2007: The following table details the type and amount of variance applications received and reviewed by the BOZA since 2007. ‘07 ‘08 ‘09 ‘10 ‘11 ‘12 ‘13 ‘14 ‘15 RESIDENTIAL Attached Garages: Interior side setback: 0 1 2 1 2 0 1 0 0 Rear setback: 0 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 Side yard abutting the street setback: 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Living Space: Front setback: 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 Interior side setback: 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 Side abutting the street setback: 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Miscellaneous: Deck-Interior side yard: 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Open covered porch – front yard: 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 Fence height – front yard: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 Eave – interior side yard: 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Total Residential Variances: 5 9 2 2 2 2 3 2 1 COMMERCIAL Front setback: 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 Side abutting the street setback: 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 Expand a non-conformity: 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Increase total sign area: 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 Drive aisle width: 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 Floor area ratio: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 Screening wall: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 Total Commercial Variances: 1 2 0 1 1 0 4 1 1 Total Variances: 6 11 2 3 3 2 7 3 2 2015 Annual Report Board or Commission: Board of Zoning Appeals IV. 2015 Applications: Date: May 28, 2015 Variance: Floor Area Ratio Location: 5305 Parkdale Drive Applicant: St. Louis Park Properties, LLC (Jacobs Management) The Applicant requested a variance to the Floor Area Ratio (FAR) to allow a 0.7 FAR instead of the allowed 0.5 maximum FAR. The intended use of the building was to remodel it from an office/warehouse use into an indoor self-storage facility. The BOZA had four members in attendance. The first vote was to deny the request, which failed on a 2-2 vote. The next motion was to approve the request, which also failed on a 2-2 vote. Therefore, by rule, the application was automatically denied since the BOZA was unable to pass a motion to approve it. The Council conducted a hearing and overturned the BOZA decision, voting 4-2 to approve the variance application. The building remodel has been completed, and the storage facility is open for business. July 23, 2015: Variance: Front Setback Location: 3771 Kipling Avenue South Applicant: Beth and Zach Klawitter BEFORE AFTER 2015 Annual Report Board or Commission: Board of Zoning Appeals Date: July 23, 2015 Variance: Front Setback Location: 3771 Kipling Avenue South Applicant: Beth and Zach Klawitter The Applicants, Beth and Zach Klawitter requested a 4.0 foot variance to the required 34.9 foot front yard to construct an addition to the home. The purpose of the addition was to expand the kitchen. The BOZA conducted the public hearing. Nobody from the neighborhood spoke to the proposal. The BOZA voted 4 -0 to deny the application. They cited that a hardship or practical difficulty did not exist to necessitate a variance to the front yard requirement. They also noted that the city conducted a comprehensive review of the front yard requirements in 2005, and that the current front yard regulations reflect the city’s intent to preserve the character of each block. As a result of the BOZA denial, the Applicant proceeded with a remodel that did not include the addition to the front. The picture below shows the house as it existed before the variance application. The completed renovation does not include changes to the exterior. 2015 Annual Report Board or Commission: Board of Zoning Appeals V. 2016 Goals: a. The Board will continue to conduct hearings for variances and appeals as requested by residents and business owners. VI. Additional Board/Commission Comments: a. The Board does not have any additional comments. 2015 Annual Report Board or Commission: Housing Authority 2015 Goals and Key Initiatives: 1. Continue successful administration of the Housing Authority’s core federally funded rental assistance programs including maximizing program utilization, ensuring sound fiscal policies, securing renewal funding through the submission of competitive grant applications and maintaining and improving the Public Housing properties. o Provided rental assistance to approximately 500 low-income households through HUD’s federally funded rental assistance programs. o Exceeded 98% annual occupancy in the Public Housing Program and 100% annual utilization in the Housing Choice Voucher Program and achieved HUD’s designated High Performer Status for the administration of both programs. o Completed approximately $145,000 in capital improvements to Public Housing units. Awarded a $280,000 state grant to assist in funding capital improvements to Hamilton House. o Administered forty (40) units of Project-Based Housing Choice Voucher rental assistance at three developments; Wayside (15), Vail Place (7) and Excelsior and Grand (18). o Administered thirty-eight (38) units of Shelter-Plus-Care (S+C) supportive housing rental assistance in partnership with Perspectives Inc., Community Involvement Program and Pillsbury United Communities (Emerge). An additional 5 units administered at Wayside House utilizing unexpended S+C funds from HUD grants designated for Perspectives and Community Involvement Program. o Awarded HUD renewal grant to support the Family Self Sufficiency program which assists housing program participants in attaining greater economic self-sufficiency. In 2015, thirty-nine (39) Housing Choice Voucher and Public Housing program participants enrolled in the Family Self-Sufficiency Program. Four participants graduated from the program. o Resident Opportunity Social Services (ROSS) Program at Hamilton House provided on-going services for an average of 21 residents/month and completed an average of 250 resident visits/month providing services to promote resident’s ability to live independently. Position is funded through a three year competitive grant from HUD. o The Housing Authority assisted 20 households through the Stable HOME rental assistance program; a joint partnership with Hennepin County providing housing assistance to homeless or previously homeless individuals and families within Suburban Hennepin County. The Program is funded with County HOME funds. City Housing Rehab and Homeownership Programs 2. Continue to support/promote a well maintained housing stock through the use of the City’s housing rehab programs including the Move-Up-In -The-Park programs, the Discount Loan Programs, the Emergency Rehab Grants and the HIA designation. Continue to explore opportunities to address unmet housing rehab needs. o Move-up in the Park Home Remodeling Programs: Over the past year, the City experienced continued steady use of the home expansion programs and high use of the design and technical advisor programs. Seven Move-Up-in-the-Park loans were closed in 2015, the highest number since 2011. Major remodeling projects were just short of an eleven year high and 2015 home additions were consistent with the previous three years which were higher than 2009-2011. o Both the Home Remodeling Fair and Home Remodeling Tour continue to be popular events with residents. Over 1,000 attended the Remodeling Fair and an average of approximately 400 attendees at each house on the Home Remodeling Tour. o Expended 100% of CDBG funding on approved allocated projects/programs within the designated timeline. o Discount Loan Program: Discount Loan use in 2015 was lower than previous years with only 13 loans; however, this is a statewide trend with an increase in loan options and fewer homeowners using secured loans that have a lien against the property. CEE is the loan administrator for our Discount Loan program and in addition to these 13 loans, an additional 32 loans were closed in St. Louis Park. o The Energy Rebate program continues to be popular and 2015 had the second highest usage since implementation in 2009. 125 home energy visits were conducted through the Home Energy Squad Enhanced program. Although this is a reduction in homes compared to the previous two years the program is still a great opportunity for residents to learn how to save money and make their home more energy efficient. 3. Continue to support/promote affordable homeownership programs/opportunities consistent with the City’s Vision and Housing Goals. o Inclusionary Housing Policy: The Council adopted an Inclusionary Housing Policy that will require the inclusion of affordable housing in multi-family developments receiving financial assistance from the City. o Excess Land: Staff facilitated the sale of the last remaining excess land parcels designated for multi-family development. The two properties located off the 394 frontage road closed in July 2015. Construction is scheduled for mid-2016. o Homes Within Reach Land Trust: The City provided financial assistance to facilitate the purchase, rehab and resale of one Land Trust low income homeownership properties. There are now 13 land trust homes in St. Louis Park. o Live Where You Work Homeownership Program: There have been a total of 21 buyers under this program, four in 2015. o Construction Management Plan (CMP): Staff implemented a new program to address neighborhood issues and concerns related to the demolition and construction of new homes and the construction of major additions. The CMP is primarily a neighborhood notification tool and provides information on who to contact if issues arise during construction. In 2015 there were 56 projects: 32 additions, 2 demo only, 19 demo/rebuild and 3 new. o Staff participation continues on the Louisiana Court Development Oversight Committee. The development is financially stable, maintaining high occupancy rates and continuing to make improvements to the property. o Staff participated on the SWLRT Housing Committee. The Committee developed a draft SW Corridor Wide Housing Strategy that will be presented to the SW Steering Committee for adoption in early 2016. 2016 Goals: 1. Continue successful administration of the Housing Authority’s core federally funded rental assistance programs including maximizing program utilization, ensuring sound fiscal policies including securing renewal funding through the submission of competitive grant applications and maintaining and improving the Public Housing properties. o Provide rental assistance to over 500 low-income households through HUD’s federally funded rental assistance programs. o Continue to submit competitive grants applications for HUD renewal funds to ensure continuation of the Family Self-Sufficiency Program, the Resident Service Coordinator at Hamilton House and the Continuum of Care, formerly Shelter Plus Care, rental assistance program. o Continue to partner with Hennepin County in administration of the Stable Home shallow rent subsidy program throughout suburban Hennepin County for households leaving shelters throughout suburban Hennepin County. 2. Continue to support/promote a well maintained housing stock through the use of the City’s housing rehab programs including the Move-Up-In-The-Park programs, the Discount Loan Programs, the Emergency Rehab Grants and the HIA designation. Continue to explore opportunities to address unmet housing rehab needs. 3. Respond to opportunities to collaborate with nonprofit and for profit developers to address housing needs in the community. o Continue to represent the City on the SWLRT Housing Committee and work with committee members and City Council in creating/implementing corridor wide housing strategies consistent with the City’s housing policies, goals and vision. o Continue to support/promote affordable homeownership programs/opportunities consistent with the City’s Vision and Housing Goals. o The 3rd Bi-annual Realtors Forum is scheduled for March 16 at the City Fire Station 1. The school district and representatives from a number of City departments will be participating. o Seek strategies to promote affordable housing options for low and moderate income households in the community including both new construction and preservation of existing naturally occurring affordable housing. 2015 Annual Report Board or Commission: I. 2015 Goals and Key Initiatives: Provide a progress report on your 2015 goals and list the most significant activities undertaken in 2015. Most of the Commission’s time was devoted to the Comcast franchise transfer and CenturyLink’s application for franchise. A. Reviewed CenturyLink’s application for cable TV franchise, established a subcommittee with three commissioners and city staff to handle franchise negotiations, and recommended council approval of the proposed franchise. Chair Browning and Commissioners Keeler and Anderson actively participated in the negotiation sessions with CenturyLink, reviewed each new draft of the franchise and provided valuable feedback to city staff. Council held a public hearing and approved the CenturyLink franchise on November 2, 2015, which became effective December 12, 2015. B. On February 11, 2015, the commission approved the Comcast franchise transfer to GreatLand with conditions to protect customers, added HD channels for ParkTV and reimbursed the city for transfer costs. Ultimately, Comcast withdrew their offer to purchase Time Warner and spin off the Minnesota cable systems to GreatLand, but this was still a major effort for the commission, taking up most of several meetings. A significant amount of commission activity was also devoted to this in 2014. C. The Comcast franchise fee audit was settled for $8,000, which was the approximate cost of the audit. The auditor found some underpayments, and the commission audit subcommittee recommended a settlement. (Carry over from activity in 2014). D. In August, Chief Information Officer Clint Pires provided a progress report on the fiber optic study conducted several years ago, with these key points:  Availability of consumer broadband has improved since the city last evaluated broadband access in 2006, but St. Louis Park residents still don’t have access to fiber to the home (FTTH). Later Comcast announced FTTH is available with a rigorous series of conditions.  U.S. Internet has approached the city about FTTH in St. Louis Park.  The city has improved city fiber to some park locations to allow camera security, public Wi-Fi and other services.  The city purchased fiber to the third water tower, which allows the new meter reading technology that is being deployed city-wide.  The city is working with Hennepin County to trade excess fiber capacity for additional fiber along Wooddale Avenue. 2015 Annual Report Board or Commission: Choose an item. E. Chief Information Officer Clint Pires presented the council’s five goals to provide direction for staff to have the most positive impact on the community by 2024, and asked that the commission take a role in technology and infrastructure improvements. II. 2016 Goals: List your board/commission’s most important goals (up to 3) for 2016. These goals should be statements that reflect the board/commission’s highest priorities, which may or may not change from year-to-year. a. Monitor CenturyLink’s new Prism TV service, and ensure compliance with their franchise. b. Review Comcast customer service upgrades and complaint logs, and consider whether the city should pursue any further action. c. Recommend improvements to support or build broadband infrastructure and technology applications to enhance livability for all age groups. III. 2016 Key Initiatives/Activities: For each goal listed above, list 1-2 key initiatives or activities that the Board/Commission will working on in 2016 that will help make progress toward that particular goal. a. Consider having a commissioner attend the quarterly meetings with CenturyLink that will cover the network build-out benchmarks. Review CenturyLink marketing materials and provide feedback to the company. Tour the CenturyLink headend in Golden Valley and learn more about their network technology. b. Review Comcast complaints reported to city staff after the first quarter is complete. If action is deemed necessary, consider directing staff to request call center records to break out calls from St. Louis Park. Consider a customer service ordinance that meets federal guidelines. c. Bring a guest speaker to teach Commissioners about cable TV and fiber optic technology. Ask staff to report on the city’s fiber optic network improvements planned for 2016. 2015 Annual Report Board or Commission: Choose an item. IV. Additional Board/Commission Comments: Commissioner Attendance 2015 2/11/15 5/13/15 8/12/15 9/23/15 Special meeting 12/9/15 Total meetings attended Chair Bruce Browning X X X X X 5 Vice Chair Andrew Reinhardt X 1 Maren Anderson X X X X X 5 Dale Hartman X X X X X 5 Cindy Hoffman X X X X 4 Toby Keeler X X X X X 5 Rolf Peterson X X X 3 Webinars Staff subscribes to monthly training webinars conducted by the National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA). This year the topics included closed captioning, transitioning to HD, FCC and legal activities in 2015 and right of way management. Commissioner Browning attended six webinars and Commissioners Keeler and Hartman each attended one. MACTA Annual Conference The Minnesota Association of Community Telecommunications Advisors (MACTA) is the state chapter of NATOA, and holds an educational conference each year. Commissioners Browning, Hoffman and Keeler attended the 2015 conference in St. Paul. 2016 Meetings February 24, May 11, July 27, October 26 and December 14. 2015 Annual Report Board or Commission: Police Advisory Commission I. 2015 Goals and Key Initiatives: Provide a progress report on your 2015 goals and list the most significant activities undertaken in 2015. Among the goals of the Police Advisory Commission are enhancing awareness of the police department and promoting exchanges between the police department and the community. Towards this end, in 2015 the Police Advisory Commission: 1. Participated in activities such as the Children’s First Ice Cream Social where informational literature was distributed. Commissioners also hosted and attended National Night Out block parties. 2. Assisted in organizing and staffing the 9th Annual Crime Prevention Fund Golf Tournament which had 48 golfers and 15 hole sponsors. The event raised $4275 for the Crime Prevention Fund. The list of St. Louis Park businesses invited to contribute or participate in this event was expanded for 2015. Members of the commission made personal contact with many of the businesses. Ideas have been proposed which will make this event even more successful in 2016. 3. Advisory commission members attended meetings of the Housing Authority, Telecommunications Advisory Committee, Environmental and Sustainability Commission meetings to look for areas of synergy between the commissions. II. 2016 Goals: List your board/commission’s most important goals (up to 3) for 2016. These goals should be statements that reflect the board/commission’s highest priorities, which may or may not change from year-to-year. 1. Continue to participate in events such as the Children’s First Ice Cream Social, National Night Out, neighborhood meetings and the Crime Prevention Fund Golf Tournament. Aid in the interview process for new officers when needed. This was don e in the past, but not in 2015. 2. Identify new activities and areas of engagement for the commission which will help fulfill its mission, vision and goals. 2015 Annual Report Board or Commission: Police Advisory Commission 3. Explore possible collaborative activities with other commissions such as the Human Rights Commission and the Multicultural Advisory Commission. III. 2016 Key Initiatives/Activities: For each goal listed above, list 1-2 key initiatives or activities that the Board/Commission will working on in 2016 that will help make progress toward that particular goal. 1. Set specific schedules and requirements for commission members to attend community events and provide the commission with feedback about their experiences. Community events may include: • Children’s First Ice Cream Social • Parktacular Events • National Night Out • Crime Prevention Golf Tournament • Police Officer Interview processes 2. Conduct joint meetings with the HRC and Mac to establish a common initiative to work on in 2016. Develop a subcommittee or committees to discuss possible activities and present them to the commission at the scheduled meetings. IV. Additional Board/Commission Comments: None. 2015 Annual Report Board or Commission: Human Rights Commission I. 2015 Goals and Key Initiatives: Provide a progress report on your 2015 goals and list the most significant activities undertaken in 2015. In late 2014 the HRC began discussing the next topic we wanted to focus on as a commission. Coming off of a very successful two year (2013 & 2014) plan centered on anti-bullying initiatives (schools and senior living communities) the HRC realized several advantages to spreading out our goals and work plan over a two year period. We felt this not only afforded us opportunities to work in conjunction with other boards and commissions, but that it also allowed us to engage the citizens of St . Louis Park more organically in that we had time to adjust our plans based on the feedback we received and fit within the community’s needs. At the start of 2015 several of our commission members felt there was a need to focus on multiculturalism within the City of St. Louis Park. Rather than feeling there was a lack of multiculturalism within the city, the HRC wanted to celebrate what was already there: a diverse community full of varying ethnicities, religious backgrounds, and cultural values. Acknowledging that we all do better when everyone does better, we wanted to get a sense of the landscape and to access what multiculturalism meant to the citizens of St. Louis Park and what type of discussions they would like to have surrounding the topic. Taking note of the very successful Coffee and Community chats the City of Brooklyn Park was hosting, we set out to create / host three (3) Coffee and Cultural Chats of our own, with multiculturalism being the focus. Our goal was to engage the citizens of St. Louis Park and foster healthy meaningful dialogue on how the HRC and the City of St. Louis Park can better engage our citizens when it comes to multicultural issues. We also had a strong interest in celebrating the cuisines of various cultures and were hoping to incorporate a Community Garden, Farmer’s Market, or related event into our 2016 plan. Planning these Coffee and Cultural chats became more time extensive than we had anticipated and we were only able to host one of the three events this past year, with the other two still planned for 2016. The first Coffee and Cultural Chat took place September 17th at the St. Louis Park High School and attracted roughly 30 citizens from the City of St. Louis Park. While we had a list of scripted questions we intended to ask the group in large format and in small group, we only got through question one before the discussion lead itself. It was eye opening for the HRC to see how strong the desire was to continue these types of events and dialogue, but also to hear how much further 2015 Annual Report Board or Commission: Human Rights Commission our community still needs to go when it comes to multiculturalism. Besides this first event, the HRC also participated in the Children First Ice Cream Social at the Rec Center. Finally, we also successfully awarded a Human Rights Award for the first time since 2011. The award went to SOAR (Students Organizing Against Racism), a student run organization from St. Louis Park High School. II. 2016 Goals: List your board/commission’s most important goals (up to 3) for 2016. These goals should be statements that reflect the board/commission’s highest priorities, which may or may not change from year-to-year. a. Host the remaining two (2) Coffee and Cultural Chats b. Continue our collaboration with the Multicultural Advisory Committee (MAC) and Police Advisory Committee (PAC) in hopes that we can create an event together that allows us to pull from all of our 2016 Work Plans c. Host a food based event that will allow us to highlight cultural traditions and ethnic cuisines. III. 2016 Key Initiatives/Activities: For each goal listed above, list 1-2 key initiatives or activities that the Board/Commission will working on in 2016 that will help make progress toward that particular goal. a. Host the remaining two (2) Coffee and Cultural Chats a. Select strategic locations that will allow us to bring in greater ethnical and cultural diversity to our events. Use the suggestions we received from our first event. b. Advertise for these events using fliers, social media, city website, and a variety of other platforms. b. Continue our collaboration with the Multicultural Advisory Committee (MAC) and Police Advisory Committee (PAC) in hopes that we can create an event together that allows us to pull from all of our 2016 Work Plans. a. Our second collaboration meeting is set up for March and we hope to refine our goals as a joint taskforce and focus in on possible events. 2015 Annual Report Board or Commission: Human Rights Commission b. Correspond via email with the MAC and PAC to make our collaboration efforts more efficient. c. Host a food based event that will allow us to highlight cultural traditions and ethnic cuisines. a. Select a location(s) in the city that will ensure a high turnout located in convenient public transit routes making attendance easy for those with transportation difficulties. b. Work with the City of St. Louis Park staff, local businesses, and the schools to ensure greater city-wide participation and benefit from this event. IV. Additional Board/Commission Comments: 2015 Annual Report Board or Commission: Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission I. 2015 Goals and Key Initiatives: Provide a progress report on your 2015 goals and list the most significant activities undertaken in 2015. American’s with Disabilities Act Compliance: The Commission reviewed Capital Improvement and all upcoming projects to ensure in compliance with American’s with Disabilities Act. Community Group Relationships: Community groups, including associations, are invited to the Commissions monthly meetings. In 2016 the Commission met with the Football, Soccer, Fastpitch and Hockey Associations, Health in the Park, and the Off- Leash Dog Park group. Community Recreation Facility: Members were actively involved in the planning and reviewing of an outdoor refrigerated ice facility. The Commission met with the Hockey Association to discuss their goals and aspirations of the facility. Education: Met with staff from Community Development and Engineering to keep apprised of the light rail project and other large projects. Environmental Stewardship: Assisted in connecting people in the community with emphasis on environmental items such as organizing the annual Minnehaha Creek clean-up which was held on Saturday, May 2, 2015 at Isaak Walton Creekside Park. Staff Appreciation Luncheon: The Commission hosted an appreciation luncheon for staff on Wednesday, September 9, 2015 at Oak Hill Park. Trails, Sidewalks & On-Road Bicycle Accommodations: The Commission met with staff from the Engineering Department to review and discuss the current plans for the Connect the Park project. 2015 Annual Report Board or Commission: Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission II. 2016 Goals: List your board/commission’s most important goals (up to 3) for 2016. These goals should be statements that reflect the board/commission’s highest priorities, which may or may not change from year-to-year.  Community Group Relationships: Invite each association to the monthly meetings. Continue a positive relationship and learn more about the association.  Environmental Stewardship: Connect people in the community with emphasis on environmental items such as organizing the annual Minnehaha Creek Clean up and buckthorn removal. Discuss environmental issues as they arise.  Support City Initiatives relating to Parks and Recreation: Meet jointly with other Commissions as appropriate to explore joint projects or initiatives. Support City staff in various city-wide initiatives (i.e. Connect the Park, Health in the Park). Review recommendations from Community Development staff on new developments that require park dedication. III. 2016 Key Initiatives/Activities: For each goal listed above, list 1-2 key initiatives or activities that the Board/Commission will working on in 2016 that will help make progress toward that particular goal.  Community Group Relationships: The Commission will assist in facilitating interested groups and other park and recreation users (i.e. Friends of the Arts, Youth Athletic Associations, Off-Leash Dog Park users, Historical Society, etc.). They will review annual participation numbers for youth athletics to compare numbers from year to year and establish trends.  Environmental Stewardship: The Commission will work with staff to organize and staff the annual Minnehaha Creek Clean up (May 7, 2016), participate in the annual Arbor Day Event (May 14, 2016) and promote the Organic Living Workshop (April 16, 2016).  Support City Initiatives relating to Parks and Recreation: Be involved in the further study and exploration of trails, sidewalks and bicycle accommodations in the City by meeting with engineering staff to discuss the project. The Commission will host an appreciation luncheon for staff on Wednesday, September 14 at Oak Hill Park. 2015 Annual Report Board or Commission: Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission IV. Additional Board/Commission Comments: The Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission really appreciates the support of the City Council. Maintaining infrastructure, supporting the improvements to parks and trails and funding programs helps to make St. Louis Park a “Community of Choice for a Lifetime”.     1    St. Louis Park Planning Commission  2015 Annual Report      The St. Louis Park Planning Commission is a seven member advisory body made up of citizen volunteers appointed by the City Council. The Planning Commission reviews and makes recommendations on Comprehensive Plan amendments, development projects, and zoning studies and amendments. It also holds public hearings where the public can give input to Commission recommendations. Art Created By:  Myklebust + Sears      2    2015 Planning Commission Members  Richard Person, Chair  Claudia Johnston‐Madison, Vice‐Chair  Lynne Carper  Robert Kramer  Lisa Peilen  Carl Robertson  Joe Tatalovich, School Board Representative   Ethan Rickert, Youth Member    St. Louis Park Community Development Department Staff  Kevin Locke, Community Development Director  Sean Walther, Planning & Zoning Supervisor  Meg McMonigal, Principal Planner  Gary Morrison, Assistant Zoning Administrator  Ryan Kelley, Planner  Nicole Mardell, Associate Planner  Nancy Sells, Administrative Secretary  Alex Boyce, Community Development Intern      3          4    Development and Redevelopment in St. Louis Park  Approved Projects in 2015    The Shoreham    Location: 3907 Highway 7     Description: The 2.23‐acre redevelopment on the  southeast corner of France Avenue and County  Highway 25 will be a 5‐story mixed‐use building with  148 residential units and a total of 20,000 sf. of  commercial and medical office space.    The developer began site preparation in fall of 2015.   Construction is expected to be completed fall 2016.    Developer: Bader Development            Minnota Addition    Location: 4903 Cedar Lake Road    Description: An application was submitted to the City  to plat the property located at 4903 Cedar Lake Road.   The plat will consist of one lot and will incorporate  approximately 5,000 square feet of the neighboring  property to the east.  The applicant intends to use the  lot to construct a residential building consisting of 16  townhome units.  The townhomes will be 2‐3 stories  tall and have underground parking.    Construction is expected to begin in spring 2016.      Applicant: Erdogan Akguc         5           Methodist Hospital Expansion   Location: 6500 Excelsior Blvd    Description: Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital has  embarked on a multi‐year expansion of its medical  campus on Excelsior Blvd.  The vertical expansion will  add two floors on the east side of the building and one  floor on the west side of the building.  The east addition  will add 38,334 sq. ft. for new in‐patient private rooms.   The west addition will provide 20,535 sq. ft. for surgical  services and renovations.  The project will also result in  the conversion of most semi‐private rooms into private  rooms.    Developer: HealthPartners     Central Park West     Location: I‐394 and Highway 100    Description: Five more buildings are proposed for  construction at The West End at I‐394 and Highway  100.  Plans include two 6‐story multiple‐family  residential buildings, a 6‐story limited service hotel,  two 11‐story office buildings, a 2,534‐stall parking  ramp, and a central gathering space.  At full build‐out,  the multi‐phase development proposes 363 residential  units with eleven affordable units, 150‐ hotel rooms,  and 706,706 sf of Class A office space.  The project also  includes reconstruction of Utica Avenue, which is  underway.  The first apartment building (199 units) is  also under construction.    Developer: DLC Residential        Kia Dealership    Location: 6475 Wayzata Boulevard    Description: The developer plans to construct a new  26,471 square foot auto dealership building, parking  lot, new landscaping, and an underground storm  water management system on the former Woodfire  Grill and Bennigan’s Restaurants sites.  Demolition is  expected to begin spring 2016 with the store opening  late 2016.    Developer: NLD 394 LLC      6      Japs‐Olson    Location: 7500 Excelsior Blvd    Description: Japs‐Olson has significant expansion plans  for its facility at the northwest quadrant of Excelsior  Blvd and Meadowbrook Rd. The major commercial  printer and direct mail company wishes to add 192,000  sf of production and warehouse space to its existing  513,000 sf building which is expected to result in  approximately 150 new jobs.  Since the proposed  expansion site bisects property located in St. Louis Park  and Hopkins the two cities completed a municipal  boundary adjustment to facilitate the project.    The Commission reviewed the first phase of the project  which included construction of an off‐site parking lot  across the street at 7400 Excelsior Blvd.  The parking  lot was completed in 2015.    Developer: Japs‐Olson Company            Westside Center     Location: 5320 West 23rd Street    Description: The former Nestle/Novartis/Sandoz  building is being re‐purposed for multi‐tenant uses,  bringing approximately 420 living wage jobs to St. Louis  Park. Westside Center has been transformed from  100% vacant in September 2014 to currently 95%  leased. The improvements include a full renovation of  the existing building and a 36,000 sf building addition,  new stormwater management, new landscaping,  lighting upgrades, expanded parking, and expanded  outside storage.  All the improvements will be  completed by summer 2016.     The existing 24.8‐acre property was also subdivided  into two lots. The west lot is 22.1 acres and the east lot  is 2.7 acres. The lots will be operated as a cohesive  development, in part, with cross access and parking  easements, and common area maintenance  obligations.    Applicant: COB, LLC (Hillcrest Development, LLLP)      7        4900 Excelsior     Location: 4760 and 4900 Excelsior Boulevard    Description: This project includes demolition of  the former Bally Total Fitness building and  developing the site and the adjacent vacant lot  with a new six‐story mixed‐use development.  The  most recent plan proposes 164 – 176 apartment  units (depending on the final unit mix) and 28,228  square feet of commercial space on the first floor,  including Fresh Thyme grocery and liquor store.   The development includes 18 units that will be  affordable at 60% of the area median income.    The applications included a Planned Unit  Development and a plat to combine the two  parcels into one lot, dedicate right‐of‐way to the  adjacent streets, and provide drainage and utility  easements.    The City Council approved the development on  December 14, 2015.    Applicant: Oppidan Inc.     Developer: Weidner Apartment Homes             8    South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines    Creating a set of guidelines to shape the future of the south side of Excelsior Boulevard is a  forward‐looking action intended to enhance the ways the study area fits an important  community corridor. The guidelines were a product of a collaboration among Community  Development Staff, LHB Inc., SRF Consulting Group, and a City Council Appointed Task Force. The  Planning Commission reviewed the draft document (finalized in April) and helped implement  Zoning Code amendments recommended that went into effect on May 15, 2015. The code  amendments included setbacks, parking screening, sidewalk width expansion, and parking lot  drive aisle widths. These items were chosen due to their contribution to a more vibrant and safe  public realm and a higher quality of life for residents.  The guidelines will continue to be used as a tool to creatively shape development for years to  come.          9    Zoning Amendments       Breweries  o Steel Toe Brewery requested an amendment to the zoning Ordinance to increase  the maximum number of barrels of malt liquor able to be produced annually from  3,500 barrels to 20,000 barrels per year. Staff recommended this amendment  along with an ordinance amending Business Park and Industrial Park Zoning  Districts pertaining to breweries, and an amendment to the current liquor  licensing provisions in the City Code.     Signs  o The zoning ordinance section on signage was amended in three ways to allow for  greater flexibility. The first change included will increase the maximum sign area  for properties over 100,000 square feet in the Industrial and Business Park zoning  districts. The second will amend the code to apply the same sign regulations as  allowed in the General Commercial district to the M‐X district. Finally, the code  amendment will clarify and simplify the regulations pertaining to multi‐tenant  exemption.     Commercial District Building Setbacks, Parking Lot Design, & Screening   o The City of St. Louis Park worked with a consultant and City Council appointed Task  Force to create Design Guidelines for the South Side of Excelsior Boulevard. From  these guidelines the following were selected to be adopted into the zoning code:  Side yard width decrease from 15 feet to five feet in C‐1 and C‐2 zoning districts,  requiring a setback of buildings in C‐1 district with more than three stories to set  stories above the second floor back by at least ten feet from the property line,  reduction of drive aisle width from 25 feet to 24 feet in all districts and to 22 feet  in C‐1 districts, prohibition of parking in front yard of all C‐1 properties, and  increase in minimum parking lot screening height from six feet to eight feet and  distance from residential properties to eight feet.     Form Based Code  o The Form Based Code Amendment is designed to produce development  regulations for the areas around the three SW LRT Station Areas in St. Louis Park.   It is intended to foster predictable built results and a high‐quality public realm by  using physical form as the organizing principle. Planning Commission has provided  input on various sections of the draft code and staff continues to revise the draft  based on input form the community, Planning Commission and City Council.      10       Planned Unit Developments  o Planned Unit Developments were formerly processed and approved by resolution,  and handled more similarly to a conditional use permit (CUP).  The accepted  change now requires each PUD to be approved as a distinct zoning ordinance, with  its regulations specified in the approving ordinance and development agreement.  Each PUD is approved in the same manner as other ordinances, and a PUD  designation is placed on the zoning map.   Staff included revisions throughout the PUD ordinance which reorganize several  sections and eliminate redundant text. These revisions clarify regulations and  provide consistent language and formatting with other sections of the Zoning  Code.      Meadowbrook Golf Course Rezone to Park & Open Space  o In 2006, the City of St. Louis Park adopted a Park and Open Space Zoning District  (POS) to preserve City‐owned parks, undevelopable land and areas with valuable  environmental qualities as open space to ensure the continued health, safety and  welfare of the community.  City parks were rezoned POS at that time, but rezoning  of publicly owned open space has yet to be completed. Meadowbrook Golf Course,  owned by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) was formerly zoned  as an R‐1 Single Family Residential area. In order to preserve the area as a  recreational green space, the City applied and approved an application to rezone  the property from R‐1 to POS. This change ensures that the current use of the  property as green space and maintains consistency with the City’s Comprehensive  Plan.                        11      Applications Reviewed                          2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2 111 758 1 6 7 6 7 4 4 4 2 10 1 5 2 1 1 42 1 6 3 6 5 1 6 2 3 3 3 1 4 2 6 3 6 5 APPLICATIONS REVIEWED Comprehensive Plan Amendments Conditional Use Permits Planned Unit Developments Rezoning Subdivisions/Plats Variances Zoning Code Amendments     12      2016 Work Plan    Zoning Items:   Complete Form‐Based Code and officially adopt into Zoning Code   Review the Mixed‐Use zoning district requirements and amend as needed   Review changes to the Subdivision Code    Review Development Applications   West End/Central Park West Hotel and Office Tower Phases   PLACE mixed‐use redevelopment proposal   Excelsior & Monterey Mixed Use Redevelopment   Japs‐Olson expansion   Meadowbrook Golf Course & Minnehaha Creek Restoration    Comprehensive Plan Process   Provide into the plan for community outreach   SWLRT Station Area Planning and Development       13    Appendix A: Full List of Applications  Final Plat and Final PUD‐ Central Park West  Location: 1511 Utica Ave. S.  Applicant: DLC Residential  Case No.: 14‐23‐S, 14‐24‐PUD, 15‐06‐VAC,  15‐07‐VAC    Zoning Ordinance Amendments – Planned Unit  Development Ordinance  Applicant: City of St. Louis Park  Case No.: 14‐25‐ZA    Major amendment to PUD for Setback  Location: 5305 Wayzata Boulevard  Applicant: TPI Hospitality  Case No.: 14‐27‐PUD    Comprehensive Plan Amendment – Hwy. 7 &  Glenhurst   Location: 3907, 3915 Hwy. 7; 3031  Glenhurst Ave.; 3914, 3918 31st St. W.  Applicant: Bader Development  Case No.: 14‐28‐CP    Zoning Ordinance Amendments ‐ Outside  storage in IP District  Applicant: James T. Smith  Case No.: 14‐29‐ZA    Major amendment to PUD– Methodist  Hospital  Location: 6500 Excelsior Boulevard  Applicant: Park Nicollet Methodist  Hospital  Case No.: 14‐31‐PUD    Comprehensive Plan Text Amendments ‐  Planned Unit Developments  Applicant: City of St. Louis Park  Case No.: 14‐32‐CP    Rezoning to POS Parks and Open Space     Location: Meadowbrook Golf Course  Applicant: City of St. Louis Park  Case No.: 15‐01‐Z        CUP – Excavation for new home  Location: 4106 Forest Lane  Applicant: Timothy Alt, ALTUS Architecture  & Design  Case No.: 15‐02‐CUP    Preliminary Plat with Variances and  Preliminary PUD Location:   4760 and 4900 Excelsior  Boulevard Applicant: Oppidan, Inc.  Case No.: 15‐03‐S and 15‐04‐PUD    CUP for Off‐Site Parking   Location: 7400 and 7500 Excelsior  Boulevard  Applicant: Japs‐Olson Company  Case No.: 15‐08‐CUP    Preliminary and Final Plat of Minnota Addition  Location:   4903 Cedar Lake Road S.  Applicant:   Erdogan Akguc  Case No.: 15‐09‐S    Zoning Text Amendments relative to Setbacks,  Parking and Screening     Applicant: City of St. Louis Park  Case No.: 15‐10‐ZA    Preliminary and Final Plat; Preliminary and  Final PUD     Location: 3907 & 3915 Hwy. 7; 3031 Glenhurst  Avenue; 3914 & 3918 31st Street W.  Applicant:  Bader Development  Case Nos.: 15‐11‐S and 15‐12‐PUD    Brewery Taproom – Zoning Ordinance  Amendment   Applicant:   Steel Toe Brewery  Case No.: 15‐14‐ZA     Bridgewater ‐ Comprehensive Plan  Amendment   Location: 4400, 4424 Excelsior Boulevard  and 3742 Monterey Drive  Applicant: Dominium Development  Case No.: 15‐15‐CP     14    CUP for Excavation and Fill  Location: 5320 West 23rd Street  Applicant: COB, LLC/Hillcrest Development  Case No.: 15‐16‐CUP West End Childcare Center – CUP Location: 2230 Edgewood Ave. S.  Applicant: Khalid Gabeyre  Case No.: 15‐20‐CUP    Zoning Ordinance Amendment – Sign Code  Applicant: City of St. Louis Park  Case No.: 15‐22‐ZA    Cityscape Apartments – Special (Conditional)  Use Permit Major Amendment and Variance  Location: 5707 Highway 7  Applicant: Bel Minneapolis Holdings LLC  Case No.: 15‐24‐SP and 15‐25‐VAR    Elmwood West – Preliminary/Final Plat with  Variances   Location: 9301 W. Franklin Avenue  Applicant: Lake West Development  Company  Case No.:  15‐26‐S and 15‐27‐VAR    Amendment to Comprehensive Plan – Business  Park to Mixed Use     Location: 4601 State Hwy. 7, 4725 State  Hwy. 7, 3130 Monterey Ave. S.  Applicant: City of St. Louis Park  Case No.: 15‐28‐CP    Comprehensive Plan Amendment, Preliminary  and Final Plat, Preliminary and Final PUD  Arlington Row Apts. West  Location: Southwest corner Wayzata Blvd.  and Texas Ave.  Applicant: Melrose Company  Case No.:  15‐29‐CP, 15‐30‐S and 15‐31‐PUD    CUP for Excavation for Outdoor Recreational  Complex  Location: 3700 Monterey Avenue South  Applicant: City of St. Louis Park  Case No.: 15‐34‐CUP   Major Amendment to The Shoreham PUD to  correct a text error  Location: Southwest corner of CSAH 25 and  France Avenue  Applicant: City of St. Louis Park  Case No.: 15‐35‐PUD    Comprehensive Plan Amendment and  Rezoning  Location: 3601 Huntington Ave. S.  Applicant: Michael Edlavitch  Case No.: 15‐36‐CP and 15‐37‐Z Sherwin Williams Retail Store – CUP  Location: 4911 Excelsior Boulevard  Applicant: TJL Development, LLC  Case No.: 15‐38‐CUP    Westside Center – Preliminary and Final Plat;  CUP to Import Fill   Location: 5320 W. 23rd St.  Applicant: COB, LLC c/o Hillcrest  Development, LLLP  Case Nos.: 15‐40‐CUP and 15‐41‐S    The Shoreham TIF District Plan – Conformity  with Comprehensive Plan  Resolution No. 86    Consideration of Resolution ‐ 4900 Excelsior  TIF District Conformance with Comprehensive  Plan     Study Session Reports and Discussions   Form‐Based Code (four meetings in 2015)   Excelsior/Monterey Development (two  meetings in 2015)   SWLRT Update   SWLRT Housing Strategies Presentation –  Hennepin County and ULI   PLACE Redevelopment Concept   Meadowbrook Golf Course Ecological  Restoration Project   Arlington Row (East and West)  Development Proposals   South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines  and Zoning Discussion   Sign Code Amendments        15    Appendix B: Annual Report Summary    I. 2015 Goals and Key Initiatives: Provide a progress report on your 2015 goals and list the most significant activities undertaken in 2015. a. Zoning Items i. Recommended approval of 5 Zoning Code Amendments, including changes to the Planned Unit Development (PUD) requirements and recommendations from the South Side of Excelsior Boulevard Design Guidelines. ii. Recommended approval of a new Planned Unit Development Ordinance and reviewed drafts of a Form-Based Code. b. Review Development Applications i. Held public hearings and made recommendations on 7 conditional use permits, 7 comprehensive plan amendments, 6 subdivision/plats, 5 planned unit developments, 2 rezonings, and 1 variance. c. Reviewed SWLRT station planning and development.    II. 2016 Goals: List your board/commission’s most important goals (up to 3) for 2016. These goals should be statements that reflect the board/commission’s highest priorities, which may or may not change from year-to-year. a. Review Zoning and Subdivision Codes b. Review Development Applications c. Provide input and participate in the Comprehensive Planning process  III. 2016 Key Initiatives/Activities: For each goal listed above, list 1-2 key initiatives or activities that the Board/Commission will working on in 2016 that will help make progress toward that particular goal. a. Zoning Items i. Complete Form-Based Code and officially adopt into zoning code ii. Revise the Mixed-Use zoning district requirements iii. Review changes to the Subdivision Code b. Development Applications Review i. West End/Central Park West Hotel and Office Tower Phases ii. PLACE mixed-use redevelopment proposal c. Comprehensive Plan process i. Provide input into the plan for community outreach IV. Additional Board/Commission Comments: The Planning Commissioners pride themselves in their thoughtful consideration of applications. Commissioners review detailed staff reports on each application, conduct fair and civil public hearings, discuss complex issues at length in study sessions, and make sound recommendations to the City Council in a timely fashion. 2015 Annual Report Board or Commission: Planning Commission 2015 Annual Report Board or Commission: Environment & Sustainability Commission I. 2015 Goals and Key Initiatives: Provide a progress report on your 2015 goals and list the most significant activities undertaken in 2015. 1. Develop Detailed Work Plans for the Work Groups and Begin Implementation – Commissioners and citizens did extensive volunteer effort work to develop comprehensive plans and, once they were approved, moved forward with immense amount of work to implement them. Several new Work Groups were added: Water, Land and Wildlife; Transportation; and Communication. 2. Began Communications and Outreach with the Community – We took our first major steps at reaching out to the community by establishing a website and a flyer, participating in numerous community events (from the Organic Living Festival and Earth Day to the Parktacular and Harvest Festival, holding a Climate Resilience Forum, and doing a first major presentation for the St. Louis Park Business Council. 3. Developed Partners in Energy and Began the First Steps Towards a Full Plan – We conducted an extensive process of recruiting diverse business, education and community leaders and then began an extensive visioning and planning process to create a sustainable energy future. 4. Participated in the City Council’s Process and Policies to Address Plastic Bags and Takeout Containers – Although it had not been part of our plans for the year, we put in extensive amounts of time participating in the entire City Council process and then providing input on policies and encouraging a larger zero waste goal. 5. Establish a positive working relationship with the new Environment and Sustainability Coordinator II. 2016 Goals: List your board/commission’s most important goals (up to 3) for 2016. These goals should be statements that reflect the board/commission’s highest priorities, which may or may not change from year-to-year. a. Community Visioning Process resulting in sustainable topics for consideration into the Comprehensive Plan b. Climate Action Plan c. Green Step Cities 2015 Annual Report Board or Commission: Environment & Sustainability Commission III. 2016 Key Initiatives/Activities: For each goal listed above, list 1-2 key initiatives or activities that the Board/Commission will working on in 2016 that will help make progress toward that particular goal. a) Community Visioning Process 1. Survey the community on their knowledge and understanding of sustainable concepts and initiatives as well as identify concerns or interests. 2. Summarize findings from the survey and tie top concerns/interests to appropriate areas of the Comprehensive Plan b) Climate Action Plan 1. Partners in Energy is a project in partnership with Xcel Energy and the commission to develop a climate action plan with a variety SLP stakeholders on the project. 2. The climate action plan will require a Greenhouse Gas inventory and a climate score card, both being worked on this year. c) Green Step Cities 1. Using this framework to identify action items across all sustainable best practices that the commission and staff can work together on in achievable bits. 2. Achieve Step 2 level in 2016; Step 3 level in 2018 (or earlier) IV. Additional Board/Commission Comments: The commission requests additional time with Council. Several ideas have been suggested including: 1) Having a Councilperson identified as a liaison to the commission. This does not have to mean that a Councilperson would attend all commission meetings, but would take a special interest in staying more connected to commission activities. 2) Tying commission goals with the Council 2 year goals 3) Having quarterly, or some other frequency, check-ins with Council from the commission to better share actions/activities and address concerns, barriers, etc. 4) Consider allowing middle school/junior high youth to serve on boards/commissions. Additional work group information on past and future goals and actions follows: Green Step Cities The GreenStep Cities Working Group 2015 goals were to work with the new Sustainability Coordinator in defining which of the current City Best Management Practices can claim credit towards the program and what areas need to be revised. To meet these goals, the group was tasked with the following:  Meet with City Staff regarding priorities/needs for GreenStep Cities Program  Develop 2015 priority/need list for GreenStep Cities program  Develop schedule and work effort estimate and plan to achieve priorities and needs  Submit schedule and work effort plan to city staff for approval  Hold monthly meetings to discuss ongoing work effort.  Coordinate with other Environment and Sustainability work groups to develop best practices that will complement the Cities’ ongoing GreenSteps efforts  Recruit community members for work group  Research grants and partnering with other cities with their GreenStep Cities efforts  Submit a summary of work efforts and priorities/needs met to city council by end of 2015 Overall, the GreenStep Cities working group succeeded in completing a majority of their 2015 goals. The following is a summary of their achievements and remaining tasks:  Worked jointly with the new Sustainability Coordinator to develop path forward for GreenStep Cities.  Met with City Staff and will continue to meet with staff to further define priorities/needs for the St. Louis Park GreenStep Cities Program.  Defined 2016-17 priority list for GreenStep Cities.  Initiated the development of the schedule and plan to achieve priorities and needs.  No schedule has been submitted to staff but schedule is still being developed and will be coordinated with staff availability.  Monthly meetings have been slow to start, but are finally underway.  Coordination with other SLP Environment and Sustainability work groups has been successful. It has helped highlight current BPs as well as additional BPs that would meet not only the GreenStep Cities goals, but also other working group goals.  More work needs to be done to recruit community members; no community members are currently in the GreenStep Cities Working Group.  No activity has been done for research grants and partnering with other cities with their GreenStep Cities goals. Water-Land-Wildlife 2015 Goals and key initiatives Assess policies & practices, and recommend enhancements. Met with city staff, regulatory agencies, neighboring city persons to learn about management methods, constraints and evolving best practices. Visited city parks to observe usage, native plantings, and locations for expanded tree coverage. Review current projects and comment. Met frequently with engineer Phillip Elkin and Erick Francis regarding the Bass Lake Project. Participate in GreenStep Cities work group information process. Collaborated to advance the 2016-2017 work plan. The 2016 Workplan was completed, elaborating on the 2015 Goal Statement. Initiated Environmental Commission Resolution to host Stormwater Education for Municipal Organizations. 2016 Goals Produce a city plan for production of the new MPCA-mandated Storm Water Management Plan, a component of the new Comprehensive Plan, including defined alternative levels of flood protection, surface water harvesting and reuse, and pond restoration. Enhance protections for land, vegetation and wildlife in city policies and practices. Expand work group with diverse natural resources expertise. 2016 Key Activities & Initiatives Collaborate with City Staff to develop the Stormwater Management Plan, to incorporate natural hydrology, water conservation and pond restoration. Collaborate with City Staff on land and wildlife policy. Recruit work group members with diverse expertise. Initiate public education programs with the Education work group. Education & Action Group 2015 summary 1. Promote the City’s April 18 Organic Living Workshop – We promoted the workshop and had a table with a display and information. 2. Promote other City of SLP’s Landscape Workshops – The Annual Landscape Workshops were not held but there were organic gardening workshops. 3. Provide Sustainability Education at the June Parktacular Celebration – We created 300 flyers that we distributed by bike (with Sustainable SLP signage) to the audience as part of the Parktacular Parade. We had a table at the Parktacular Expo where we had posters and information for visitors. 4. Develop Sustainability Education Materials and Possibly Offer Speakers for National Night Out in August – We joined with the Police Department and visited five National Night Out events in SLP where we gave out our flyer and spoke to residents and answered questions. In addition, Commissioners spoke at their National Night Out events. 5. Create Sustainability Education Materials for the SLP Welcome Packet – We have not completed this yet as the Communications Work Group has had other priorities. 6. Post Monthly Sustainability Tips on the Sustainable SLP Website – We have not completed this yet as the Communications Work Group is still working on developing the website. 7. Arrange and Promote Tours of Waste, Recycling and Composting Facilities – We have not arranged these yet. 8. Conduct Community Survey on Sustainability Awareness and Actions – We worked with Macalester College Assistant Professor Christie Manning, a long-time sustainable behavior expert and survey designer, and had a student intern who was going to help design and implement the survey. Unfortunately, they needed a stipend and the City was not able to provide that. We have explored other options but will need some funding. 9. Implement MN Energy Challenge and Possibly the Cool Neighborhood Project – We did not do this. 10. Presentations and Workshops on Sustainability and the Natural Step Framework – We did a well- received presentation on Sustainability and the Natural Step Framework for the SLP SEEDS Harvest Festival and Food Summit at Wolfe Park Pavilion September 20. We did a two-part presentation on Sustainability and the Natural Step Framework for City Manager Tom Harmening and Environment and Sustainability Coordinator Shannon Pinc. We clarified several conflict of interest questions and subsequently moved forward with developing plans for a workshop and presentations with visioning for City staff, Council members, and commissioners, as well as presentations and a workshop with visioning for the entire community, including business, schools, congregations, community groups and residents. 11. Collaborate on Offering Workshops on Specific Sustainability Issues – We conducted a well-attended Climate Resilience Forum on August 11 and worked with various groups on promoting other workshops and educational events, such as the SLP Earth Day and SLP Harvest Festival and Food Summit. 12. Explore the Possibility of Utilizing the MPower Sustainability Champions Program – We continued to explore the feasibility of utilizing this proven, successful, year-long sustainability education and action program but have not been able to find a funder. 13. Participate in and Promote Twin Cities Metro Community Sustainability Forums – We participated in and promoted a number of public forums, including the West Metro Water Stewardship Forum. 14. Examine the Feasibility of Developing Overall SLP Sustainability Goals and Indicators and Becoming an Eco-Municipality - Sustainable SLP Goals and Indicators are on hold until the Sustainability and the Natural Step Framework education and visioning is completed, as is becoming an “eco- municipality”. 15. Explore Possible Collaboration with Various SLP Community Groups – We began extensive collaboration with SLP SEEDS and have initiated discussions with the Community Education Advisory Council (CEAC), Three Rivers Park District, Spark-Y Youth Action Labs and other community groups to further expand our education and action efforts. 16. Seek Outside Funding for Sustainable SLP Education and Action Efforts –We have not explored this. 2016 goals. a. Conduct Community Survey on Sustainability and Resiliency Awareness, Vision and Action b. Conduct Presentations and Workshops on Sustainability, Resiliency and the Natural Step Framework for Developing Vision, Goals, and Action Plans for City Government and the Community (including business, schools, congregations, community groups and residents). c. Develop, Support and Promote Sustainability Educational and Action Events for the community Initiatives to achieve 2016 goals: 1. Conduct Community Survey on Sustainability and Resiliency Awareness, Vision and Action – We would like to conduct a community-wide survey that would be web-based but which also could include opportunities for people to complete a written form at community events. We will need some funding and would like to work with professional sustainability expert Dr. Christie Manning, Assistant Professor at Macalester College. Ideally, we’d involve her students and/or student from the Humphrey Institute, U of St. Thomas or other schools. This would provide baseline data on sustainability and resiliency awareness, vision and action in St. Louis Park and inform the actions of the Work Groups and Commission. The survey will be offered at various Spring 2016 events, including the SLP Organic Living Workshop, SLP Seeds Earth Day and Parktacular. 2. Presentations and Workshops on Sustainability, Resiliency and the Natural Step Framework for Developing Vision, Goals, and Action Plans for City Government and the Community (including business, schools, congregations, community groups and residents). There would be a full workshop on Sustainability, Resiliency and the Natural Step Framework for City Staff that would include education, baseline assessment, visioning and action planning. There would be several introductory presentations on Sustainability, Resiliency and the Natural Step Framework for the community that would include the opportunity to provide input on the vision. One of the scheduled introductory presentations with community visioning is scheduled for the SLP Seeds Earth Day Celebration on April 24. These would be followed by a community-wide full workshop on Sustainability, Resiliency and the Natural Step Framework. The vision and action plans from these sessions would then be compiled into an overall vision and action plan for the city. As part of the process we’ll also examine the feasibility of developing overall SLP Sustainability Goals and Indicators and becoming the second city in Minnesota (after Duluth with more than 100 others globally, including Madison and 24 other WI cities) to become an Eco-Municipality (a city that has made a formal commitment to sustainability and developing and implementing a sustainability action plan following the four sustainability principles of the Natural Step Framework). 3. Develop, Support and Promote Sustainability Educational and Action Events for the community, including: Basic Vegetable Gardening Class offered through Park and Rec beginning April 5; Second Annual SLP Organic Living Conference April 16; Nature Center Earth Day Celebration April 22; SLP SEEDS Earth Day Celebration April 24; Community Tree Sale Distribution Day May 7 in conjunction with RAM pick-up of composters and rain barrels; Creek Clean-up at Knollwood May 7; Annual Community Tree-Planting on Arbor Day with Tree Trust May 14; Rain garden workshops with Metro Blooms in late April or early May; Parktacular June 18; National Night Out August 2: SLP SEEDS Fall Harvest Festival in September; tours of recycling, waste and composting facilities; Sustainable SLP Work Group and Commission events; and events of various organizations. In conjunction with the Environment and Sustainability Coordinator and Sustainable SLP Work Groups, we would plan to have a table or information available at each event, seek to have broadcast by Park TV (if appropriate) and a speaker (if appropriate). 4. Create Sustainability Education Materials for the SLP Welcome Packet – We will work with the Communications Work Group to develop materials about sustainability and Sustainable SLP for inclusion in the packet. 5. Post Monthly Sustainability Tips – We will work with the Communications Work Group and other Sustainable SLP Work Groups to create monthly sustainability tips that will be posted on our website, Next Door and possibly the Sun Sailor. 6. Arrange and Promote Tours of Waste, Recycling and Composting Facilities – We will arrange for free public tours of each of the facilities that handles SLP’s waste, recycling and composting. 7. Collaborate on Offering Workshops on Specific Sustainability Issues – We will work with various groups to offer workshops for homeowners, apartment and multi-unit housing residents, owners and managers on various sustainability issues, including gardening, composting, energy, transportation, community gardens, community solar gardens, water stewardship, rain gardens, etc. We’ll also explore the possibility of creating a calendar of events and having them taped by ParkTV. 8. Expand Collaboration with Various SLP Community Groups – We will continue collaborating with SLP Seeds and continue to discussions on collaboration with various groups, such as Metro CERTS (Clean Energy Resource Teams), the Community Education Advisory Council (CEAC), Three Rivers Park District, Spark-Y Youth Action Labs and the Alliance for Sustainability, to further expand our education and action efforts through our support and sponsorship. 9. Explore the possibility of Creating a SLP Sustainability Show on ParkTV – We will initiate discussions with ParkTV about the possibility of creating a weekly TV show on sustainability that would feature the work of the City, the Commission and various groups in St. Louis Park. 10. Explore the Implementation of the MN Energy Challenge and Possibly the Cool Neighborhood Project – We will explore the utilization of the Center for Energy and Environment’s online MN Energy Challenge to engage residents, businesses, schools, congregations and other groups in positive steps and commitments they can take to save energy, carbon pollution and money. As part of that we would consider having a friendly competition among SLP neighborhoods, businesses, congregations, schools and other institutions on who has the greatest savings. We’ll also consider becoming part of other efforts, such as the Cool Neighborhood Project, Ann Arbor Energy Challenge and Baltimore Energy Challenge (Neighborhood Challenges) that we’ve been researching. 11. Explore the Possibility of Utilizing the MPower Sustainability Champions Program – We will continue efforts to explore the feasibility of utilizing this proven, successful, year-long sustainability education and action program developed by the nonprofit Sustain Dane in Madison, WI. It supports business, government, schools and other institutions to become certified sustainability champions through mentoring, a monthly lunch and peer learning, energy and resource tracking and 5 action projects that each participating institution selects. 12. Explore the Possibility of Seeking Outside Funding for Sustainable SLP Education and Action Efforts - Sustainable SLP will explore the possibility of working with potential partners to seek funding (including grants and sponsorships) for Sustainable SLP efforts for education and action efforts. Because of the tremendous time demands of the plastic bag and packaging initiatives, we did not have the expected time to address several of our goals. Zero Waste Zero Waste Key Initiatives 1. Collaboration with city staff to promote organics recycling in order to meet or exceed the city goal of 20% participation by St. Louis Park citizens.  Encouraging organics participation within our own personal networks.  Become organic recycling experts so we can consistently field questions.  Become organics champions for the city and display yard signs.  Provide material that can be sent out on social media.  Use of Volunteers in the parks and master recyclers to help promote organics recycling participation, and proper use of bins at parks, sporting events and other public places. 2. Green step cities  Work to write up the completed Green Step Cities Best Practices for solid waste reduction and submit this to the Green Step Cities program by June, 2016 in order to advance St. Louis Park to the next level of two stars.  Strategize how to accomplish other best practices for the city of St. Louis Park. 3. Education and Outreach  Attend, promote and organize activities at city events such as the Organic Living Workshop, SEEDS Earth Day event, Parktacular, etc.  Design activities that are fun such as a sort your garbage game, in order to teach kids and adults how to recycle waste (maybe have prizes).  Help to organize zero waste events in our own neighborhoods (i.e, National Night Out), workplaces and churches/synagogues.  Write articles on waste reduction strategies for the Sun Sailor Opinion page. Energy Overall Summary  Research, assess and recommend initiatives, partnerships, and programs to the St. Louis Park Environment and Sustainability Commission and St. Louis Park City Council to achieve defined green energy goals in our City.  Eliminate or offset greenhouse gas emissions in all city sectors.  Accelerate use of renewable clean energy technologies in all city sectors.  Significantly increase the energy efficiency of commercial, residential, and public buildings.  Identify and utilize an objective evaluation tool for prioritization of energy action items.  Enable community to engage in Energy Work Group action plans and maintain two-way communication with citizens.  Assist in education around sustainability.  Demonstrate effectiveness of Energy Work Group benchmarks by measuring success.  Be an attractive city for sustainable businesses.  Become a city that is recognized as a leader in sustainability. 2015 SUCCESSES  Presentation to St. Louis Park Business Council - August 6, 2015 - Sustainable SLP and Energy Work Group. Well-received. Business Council requested continued presentations, case studies and on- going partnership.  Awarded partnership with Partners in Energy Program with Xcel Energy and Center for Energy and Environment - April 2015.  Recruitment and launch of Partners in Energy Program - August 13, 2015 o Stakeholders: Nordicware, Park Nicollet, Knutson Construction, SLP Public Schools, Sustainable SLP Commissioners, City of St. Louis Park, Xcel, Center for Energy and Environment and SLP residents working in companies and fields such as engineering, design and environmental activism. Cargill, BKV Group (LEED architects), iMatter (environmental youth activism) and Barr Engineering. o Committed Focus areas: (each area developing 18-month and beyond goals and strategies)  Climate Action Plan  Business Energy Efficiency  Renewable Energy  Youth  Launched Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) promotion - January 2015. Joint effort with SLP City staff and Energy Work Group. Finance mechanism for energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades to buildings. Pilot projects: Park Tavern and Hardcoat Inc. - work in progress.  Solar Energy SLP - municipality. Worked with SLP City staff to craft RFP and enter into contract to purchase 50% of municipal electrical power from solar power from community solar - work in progress.  Awarded CERTS Accelerator Program for B2 Benchmarking - January 2015. Partnered with Clean Energy Resource Team for B3 Benchmarking. Funded staff to gather data on municipal energy usage and identify target areas for efficiency. Findings and recommendations available. 2016 GOALS  Complete Partners in Energy Vision and Planning Phase – February 18, 2016.  Launch Partners in Energy 18-month implementation phase.  Approve and implement goals of Partners in Energy focus areas including development and adoption of Climate Action Plan for City of St. Louis Park.  Begin to incorporate focus area goals into SLP Comprehensive Plan.  Complete GreenStep Cities areas for energy: o Buildings & Lighting - city use of renewable energy. o Economic/Community Development - support Green businesses, connect businesses to assistance.  Evaluate B3 Benchmarking next step. Transportation The transportation workgroup formed in 2015. There were several achievements and the most significant was the development of the Transportation workgroup plan. 2015 Accomplishments and Actions: 1. Formed a workgroup with 4 commission members and 3 citizens, including a Parks Commissioner and Hennepin County non-motorized transportation liaison 2. Developed Transportation Work Group Work Plan 3. Spoke at a city council meeting in support of the first segment of the Connect the Park plan to support bike lanes in the Westwood neighborhood and on Texas Ave. 4. Met with City Engineering staff as allies 5. Brainstormed on a 25-year Transportation Vision 6. Discussed sustainable transportation concepts to integrate in the Comp Plan 7. Collaborated with Health in the Park Active Connections group to minimize duplication of positive bike/walk advocacy and implementation efforts. 8. Towards the end of the year, two commissioners departed the commission and the transportation workgroup, one of whom was the lead, and we have not met with the whole workgroup since October 2015. 9. Organized a coalition of interested citizens for Dakota Avenue protected bike lanes 10. Began discussions to create a St. Louis Park Living Streets Policy and collaborated with a Water, Land and Wildlife representative. 2016 goals a. Draft a Living Streets Policy for Council Approval in fulfillment of the GreenStep program b. Develop a long-term Sustainable Transportation Vision for SLP 2016 Initiatives a. Draft a Living Streets Policy for Council approval in fulfillment of the GreenStep program 1. Assemble a Living Streets Committee within our community 2. Review all 2016-2017 Engineering Plans for near-term, 'quick win' Living Street opportunities b. Develop a long-term Sustainable Transportation Vision for SLP 1. Integrate our work into Comp Plan 2. Understand what it would take to become recognized as a bicycle friendly community by the American League of Cyclists 3. Collaborate with Education and Action Workgroup to engage and educate streets stakeholders, even those who may oppose sustainable transportation options. Meeting: Study Session Meeting Date: February 22, 2016 Written Report: 9 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY TITLE: January 2016 Monthly Financial Report RECOMMENDED ACTION: No action required at this time. POLICY CONSIDERATION: None at this time. SUMMARY: The Monthly Financial Report provides a summary of General Fund revenues and departmental expenditures and a comparison of budget to actual throughout the year. FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: Actual expenditures should generally run at about 8.5% of the annual budget in January. General Fund expenditures are at approximately 8.1% of the adopted budget at the end of January. Revenues are harder to measure in this same way due to the timing of when they are received, examples of which include property taxes and State aid payments (Police & Fire, DOT/Highway User Tax, PERA Aid, etc.). There are very few variances at this early point in the year. License and permit revenue is at 23% of budget due to the fact that a large portion of the 2016 business and liquor license payments have already been collected, which is consistent with previous years. The only expenditure variance is Organized Recreation at 19.7%. This is a temporary variance because the full 2016 Community Education contribution of $187,400 was paid to the school district in January. VISION CONSIDERATION: Not applicable. SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Summary of Revenues & Expenditures Prepared by: Darla Monson, Senior Accountant Reviewed by: Brian A. Swanson, Controller Nancy Deno, Deputy City Manager/HR Director Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager Summary of Revenues & Expenditures - General Fund As of January 31, 201620162016201420142015201520162016 Balance YTD Budget BudgetAudited Budget Unaudited Budget Jan YTD Remaining to Actual %General Fund Revenues: General Property Taxes21,157,724$ 21,176,542$ 22,364,509$ 22,639,134$ 23,597,282$ -$ 23,597,282$ 0.00% Licenses and Permits2,691,518 3,413,682 3,248,158 4,330,788 3,496,177 808,937 2,687,240 23.14% Fines & Forfeits320,150 369,545 320,200 265,301 341,200 10,000 331,200 2.93% Intergovernmental1,282,777 1,423,642 1,292,277 1,464,258 1,419,017 - 1,419,017 0.00% Charges for Services1,857,718 1,852,274 1,907,292 2,118,399 1,956,593 27,261 1,929,332 1.39% Miscellaneous Revenue1,112,369 1,302,160 1,196,018 1,356,400 977,546 45,144 932,402 4.62% Transfers In1,837,416 1,827,564 1,851,759 1,836,759 1,872,581 155,215 1,717,366 8.29% Investment Earnings150,000 119,831 140,000 - 140,000 - 140,000 0.00% Other Income17,950 13,306 17,900 19,589 27,450 417 27,033 1.52% Use of Fund Balance286,325 - 254,891 - 254,891 0.00%Total General Fund Revenues30,427,622$ 31,498,546$ 32,624,438$ 34,030,628$ 34,082,737$ 1,046,974$ 33,035,763$ 3.07%General Fund Expenditures: General Government: Administration939,391$ 980,087$ 979,183$ 1,010,876$ 1,037,235$ 62,289$ 974,946$ 6.01% Accounting876,216 873,987 912,685 903,047 933,624 60,485 873,139 6.48% Assessing559,749 560,979 602,299 601,995 641,038 54,441 586,597 8.49% Human Resources693,598 788,823 805,929 856,117 748,718 65,132 683,586 8.70% Community Development1,151,467 1,118,444 1,245,613 1,253,687 1,385,036 114,765 1,270,271 8.29% Facilities Maintenance1,053,715 1,039,699 1,094,836 1,072,745 1,115,877 75,845 1,040,032 6.80% Information Resources1,456,979 1,406,187 1,468,552 1,380,649 1,564,128 114,868 1,449,260 7.34% Communications & Marketing566,801 562,063 635,150 572,065 608,228 33,398 574,830 5.49% Community Outreach8,185 6,680 24,677 22,380 25,587 1,831 23,756 7.16% Engineering506,996 223,491 492,838 379,237 549,251 30,627 518,624 5.58%Total General Government7,813,097$ 7,560,440$ 8,261,762$ 8,052,798$ 8,608,722$ 613,681$ 7,995,041$ 7.13% Public Safety: Police7,571,315$ 7,769,592$ 8,511,557$ 8,229,942$ 8,698,661$ 755,381$ 7,943,280$ 8.68% Fire Protection3,458,161 3,535,716 3,722,396 3,757,538 4,030,153 311,903 3,718,250 7.74% Inspectional Services2,006,200 1,867,618 2,139,325 1,999,275 2,216,075 191,038 2,025,037 8.62%Total Public Safety13,035,676$ 13,172,927$ 14,373,278$ 13,986,756$ 14,944,889$ 1,258,322$ 13,686,567$ 8.42% Operations & Recreation: Public Works Administration222,994$ 236,304$ 232,437$ 213,383$ 241,304$ 20,690$ 220,614$ 8.57% Public Works Operations2,625,171 2,571,496 2,763,735 2,344,284 2,907,781 217,321 2,690,460 7.47% Organized Recreation1,290,038 1,277,046 1,304,470 1,358,711 1,431,260 281,764 1,149,496 19.69% Recreation Center1,543,881 1,561,224 1,591,115 1,574,445 1,602,935 84,723 1,518,212 5.29% Park Maintenance1,445,813 1,412,612 1,550,033 1,503,700 1,634,249 111,158 1,523,091 6.80% Westwood531,853 508,576 564,055 560,633 576,173 44,749 531,424 7.77% Natural Resources433,750 379,193 472,049 377,617 479,408 19,636 459,772 4.10% Vehicle Maintenance1,285,489 1,323,358 1,333,520 1,167,188 1,358,946 100,163 1,258,783 7.37%Total Operations & Recreation9,378,989$ 9,269,808$ 9,811,414$ 9,099,961$ 10,232,056$ 880,206$ 9,351,850$ 8.60% Non-Departmental: General 4,000$ 7,562$ -$ 118,570$ 30,351$ 2,529$ 27,822$ 0.00% Transfers Out- 1,050,000 - 2,000,000 - - 0.00% Contingency/Tax Court Petitions195,860 13,834 177,984 14,438 266,719 266,719 0.00%Total Non-Departmental199,860$ 1,071,396$ 177,984$ 2,133,009$ 297,070$ 2,529$ 294,541$ 0.85%Total General Fund Expenditures30,427,622$ 31,074,572$ 32,624,438$ 33,272,524$ 34,082,737$ 2,754,738$ 31,327,999$ 8.08%Study Session Meeting of February 22, 2016 (Item No. 9) Title: January 2016 Monthly Financial ReportPage 2