HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019/07/08 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - City Council - Study SessionAGENDA
JULY 8, 2019
5:30 p.m. AQUILA PARK FASTPITCH FIELDS RIBBON-CUTTING (3110 Xylon Ave. S.)
6:30 p.m. STUDY SESSION – Council Chambers
Discussion items
1. 6:30 p.m.
Future study session agenda planning
-Study sessions: July 15 and July 22
-Proposed future study session agenda topics:
*Return to reciting the Pledge of Allegiance at our regular city council meetings.
*How can SLP best celebrate, express, learn about, and act on our shared values?
2. 6:35 p.m. SLP Nest annual report and funding request
3. 7:05 p.m. C-1 zoning district retail and service use restrictions
4. 7:35 p.m. Efficient Building Program (benchmarking ordinance)
8:35 p.m. Communications/updates (verbal)
8:40 p.m. Adjourn
Written reports
5. Project update: Louisiana Avenue Bridge replacement – city project 4018-1700
6. Comprehensive plan related zoning map amendments
Study sessions are open to the public although no public comment is taken.
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: July 8, 2019
Discussion item: 1
Executive summary
Title: Future study session agenda planning
Recommended action: The city council and city manager to set the agenda for the special study
session scheduled for July 15 and the regularly scheduled study session on July 22, 2019.*
*Study sessions are open to the public although no public comment is taken.
Policy consideration: Not applicable.
Summary: This report summarizes the proposed agenda for the special study session scheduled
for July 15 and the regularly scheduled study session on July 22, 2019. Also attached to this
report is:
- Study session discussion topics and timeline
-Proposed topics for future study session discussion:
o Return to reciting the Pledge of Allegiance at our regular city council meetings.-
proposed by Mayor Spano
o How can SLP best celebrate, express, learn about, and act on our shared
values?-proposed by Councilmember Mavity
Financial or budget considerations: Not applicable.
Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable.
Supporting documents: Tentative agenda – July 15 and 22, 2019
Study session discussion topics and timeline
Study session topics proposed for future study session discussion
Prepared by: Debbie Fischer, Administrative Services Office Assistant
Reviewed by: Maria Carrillo Perez, Senior Management Analyst
Approved by: Nancy Deno, Deputy City Manager
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 1) Page 2
Title: Future study session agenda planning
July 15, 2019.
(Mayor Spano and Councilmember Rog out)
6:00 p.m. Special study session – Community room
Tentative discussion items
1.Consent decree update – Operations and recreation (20 minutes)
David Zoll and staff will be present at the meeting to provide an update on the progress
towards amending the Consent Decree.
July 22, 2019.
6:30 p.m. Study session – Community room
Tentative discussion items
1.Future study session agenda planning – Administrative services (5 minutes)
2.2020 budget discussion public safety overview – Administrative services (120 minutes)
Staff will check-in with the city council on the 2020 budget as things are progressing. A
good portion of the meeting will review the Police and Fire budgets.
Communications/meeting check-in – Administrative services (5 minutes)
Time for communications between staff and council will be set aside on every study session
agenda for the purposes of information sharing.
Written reports
3.June 2019 monthly financial report
4.Second quarter investment report (April – June 2019)
End of meeting: 8:40 p.m.
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 1) Page 3
Title: Future study session agenda planning
Study session discussion topics and timeline
Discussion topic Comments Date Scheduled
C-1 zoning district retail and
service use restrictions
Discussed on 6/11/18; referred to PC. Discussed
11/26/18; SS report 2/25/19; Discussed 3/11/19 –
further discussion requested by council
July 8, 2019
Accessory dwelling units/home-
based businesses
SS discussion 6/10/2019. Referred to planning
commission. Staff to prepare ADU ordinance for pc
discussion Qtr. 3 2019. Home occupation based
businesses pc discussion Qtr. 4 2019 or Qtr. 1 2020
Qtr. 4 2019 and
Qtr. 2 2020
Revitalization of Walker Lake
area
Part of preserving Walker building reports: 8/28/17,
9/25/17, 1/22/18, design study 2/12/18, update
4/23/18, design study update 8/27/18; SS report
2/11/19; SS discussion 5/28/19, planning commission
to review ordinances for implementation Qtr. 3 and
Qtr. 4 2019
Qtr. 4 2019
Election holiday discussion 3rd Qtr.
Crime free
ordinance/affordable housing
strategies
Discussed 5/14/18. 1st reading housing trust fund
10/1/18; Other affordable housing strategies/Crime
Free Ordinance – Nov/Dec, 12/10 and 12/17/18 and
1/14/19 council discussion; Certain provisions of
crime free ord. suspended; Work group being formed;
CFO work group discussed on 3/25/2019; Work group
had first meeting in May; Next meetings in June
TBD; Pending
workgroup
recommendation
Quarterly public forums at city
council meetings TBD
Immigration & supporting
families
Discussed 8/6 and referred to HRC. HRC held comm.
mtg. in Oct. Council/HRC discussion on 12/10; referred
back to HRC for refinement of recommendations
TBD
Discuss and evaluate our public
process TBD
Easy access to nature, across
city, starting with low-income
neighborhoods
TBD
STEP discussion: facilities
Discussed on 1/14/19; Tom H, Derek R. and Astein O.
toured the Central Community Center and are
continuing discussions
TBD
Westwood Hills Nature Center
Access Fund *On hold pending discussion with school district.*On hold
SEED’s community greenhouse/
resilient cities initiative
*On hold until Food Access and Security study is
complete and recommendations have been made.*On hold
Ordinance regarding home
occupations (Firearm sales)
Discussed 5/21/18 & 7/23. Written report provided at
9/24 study session. PC currently reviewing ordinance
options. Policy on city facilities adopted 10/15.
Approved 6/17/2019
One-for-one replacement policy
for NOAH properties
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 1) Page 4
Title: Future study session agenda planning
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 1) Page 5
Title: Future study session agenda planning
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: July 8, 2019
Discussion item: 2
Executive summary
Title: SLP Nest annual report and funding request
Recommended action: Representatives of SLP Nest will be presenting an annual report for their
first fiscal year of operation and will be requesting additional funding for year two.
Policy consideration: Does the council support the activities of the Nest and does it wish to
provide funding for year two.
Summary: In 2018, the council approved $25,000 in matching city funds to support the work of
the Nest in their first fiscal year of operation (2018/19 school year). At the July 8, 2019 council
study session, SLP Nest student leadership will provide the council with a recap of what was
accomplished and learned in the Nest's inaugural year, explain plans for year two of operation,
and will propose a funding agreement with the city of St. Louis Park for year two of operations
(2019/20 school year).
SLP Nest has raised approximately $39,000 toward their year two campaign goal of $95,000 and
is requesting matching funds from the city in the amount of $20,000, as was indicated as part of
last year’s request.
Financial or budget considerations: If approved, funding would be allocated through the
development fund to reimburse qualified expenditures on a dollar-for-dollar basis up to
$20,000. Additional staff time would also be required to administer and oversee the funding
agreement.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to creating opportunities to build
social capital through community engagement.
Supporting documents: Discussion
May 29, 2018 City Council Study Session staff report and minutes
June 4, 2018 City Council Meeting staff report and minutes
Prepared by: Karen Barton, Community Development Director
Julie Grove, Small Business Liaison
Approved by: Nancy Deno, Deputy City Manager/HR Director
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 2) Page 2
Title: SLP Nest annual report and funding request
Discussion
Background: Two years ago a group of St. Louis Park High School students developed an idea to
create a space, called the Nest, for students to gather for social, recreational, artistic and
educational activities. The students organized SLP Nest as a 501(c)(3) non-profit business,
developed a business plan, created a brand logo and conducted fundraising. The students
secured lease space at 3412 Library Lane in the Historic Walker Lake District, made
improvements to the building and began operating the student-led and run coffee shop and
community space on September 4, 2018.
Students provided their initial concept to the city council at a meeting on May 1, 2017 and
updates to council at study sessions on February 12 and May 29, 2018. On June 4, 2019, the
city council approved funding for the Nest in the amount of $25,000 and entered into a funding
agreement to assist with least payments, space improvements, staff salary and programming
expenses.
Additional information about the SLP Nest, including their business plan and mission
statement, can be found at www.slpnest.org .
Present considerations: At the May 29, 2018 study session, the Nest indicated that they would
be requesting additional funding from the city for years two and three, but would not be
requesting funding beyond year three. The students have successfully concluded their
inaugural year and are making plans and have begun fundraising for year two of operations. To
date, they have raised approximately $39,000 toward their year two campaign goal of $95,000.
Next steps: If the council is supportive of providing additional funding to the Nest, staff will
bring a Funding Agreement to council for formal action at an upcoming council meeting.
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: July 8, 2019
Discussion item: 3
Executive summary
Title: C-1 zoning district retail and service use restrictions
Recommended action: The purpose of this report is to follow-up on the March 11, 2019 council
discussion of the planning commission recommendations. Staff seeks direction on whether this
topic should proceed with the formal public hearing process for the ordinance as recommended
by the planning commission.
Policy consideration: Does the council support the planning commission recommendations?
Summary: Attached is a discussion summarizing the recent council discussions and the planning
commission recommendation.
On March 11, 2019, staff presented a summary of the planning commission recommendations
to the city council:
1.Establish a 7,500-square-foot maximum for retail and service uses allowed
administratively. The current limit is 20,000 square feet.
2.Establish a 20,000-square-foot maximum for retail and service uses allowed by conditional
use permit. The existing code does not have a maximum with a conditional use permit.
3.Amend the code to provide additional flexibility for mixed-use developments to include
residential uses in the C-1 Neighborhood Commercial district.
Next Step: Based on council discussion, this item could either proceed with the formal public
hearing process to amend the regulations in the C-1 Neighborhood Commercial district. The
proposed ordinance could incorporate amendments from city council, if there is consensus at
the study session on specific changes. Or, further direction could be provided to staff and/or
planning commission about additional issues to be explored before beginning the public input
process.
Financial or budget considerations: Not applicable.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of
housing and neighborhood oriented development.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Excerpt of November 26, 2018 council meeting minutes
Excerpt of March 11, 2019 council meeting minutes
Prepared by: Gary Morrison, Assistant Zoning Administrator
Reviewed by: Sean Walther, Planning and Zoning Supervisor
Karen Barton, Community Development Director
Approved by: Nancy Deno, Deputy City Manager/HR Director
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 3) Page 2
Title: C-1 zoning district retail and service use restrictions
Discussion
Background: At the November 26, 2018 study session, the council discussed options for limiting
the size of retail and services uses in the C-1 district. There was no consensus on the
appropriate size. A range of size limits were discussed, with some supporting as low as 5,000
square feet. One councilmember inquired as to how limiting the building size might impact
housing options. After discussing the topic, the council agreed to refer the matter to the
planning commission for consideration. The excerpt of the November 26, 2018 meeting
minutes pertaining to this discussion is attached.
Planning commission recommendation: At the direction of the council, the planning
commission reviewed size limitations for retail and service uses located in the C-1
Neighborhood Commercial zoning district. The planning commission discussed the question and
reviewed options at three study session meetings. In large part, the planning commission’s
opinion was that the existing regulations are sufficient in the C-1 Neighborhood Commercial
district, nevertheless, they also arrived at a consensus regarding amendments to clarify existing
code and adjust maximum size limits in response to city council’s direction. A summary of the
planning commission proposal is:
1.Establish a 7,500-square-foot maximum for retail and service uses allowed
administratively. Current limit is 20,000 square feet.
2.Establish a 20,000-square-foot maximum for retail and service uses allowed by conditional
use permit. Existing code does not have a maximum allowed by conditional use permit.
3.Amend code to clarify that in mixed use building that the retail and service size limitations
will apply to the commercial portion of the building, but the residential portion will be
bound by the floor area ratio and height limits established in the C-1 Neighborhood
Commercial district. [Staff’s assessment is that this will be sufficient to support a three-
story mixed-use building, and fully addresses the city council’s concern about the impacts
on the residential portion of mixed-use buildings.]
Council discussion: The city council last discussed this topic briefly on March 11, 2019, and
agreed to add this to a future study session for discussion. At that meeting, the council did not
reach consensus about the planning commission recommendations regarding the 7,500 and
20,000 square feet limitations for retail and service uses. The March 11, 2019 meeting minutes
pertaining to this discussion is attached.
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 3) Page 3
Title: C-1 zoning district retail and service use restrictions
Excerpt of official minutes
City council study session
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
November 26, 2018
The meeting convened at 6:30 p.m.
Councilmembers present: Mayor Pro Tem Tim Brausen, Steve Hallfin, Rachel Harris, Anne
Mavity, and Margaret Rog.
Councilmembers Absent: Mayor Jake Spano, Thom Miller
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), Deputy city manager/HR Director (Ms. Deno);
Community Development Director (Ms. Barton); Assistant Zoning Administrator (Mr. Morrison);
Planning/Zoning Supervisor (Mr. Walther); Management Assistant (Ms. Carrillo Perez); and
Recording Secretary (Ms. Pappas).
4. Retail, service and off-sale liquor store size requirements
Mr. Walther and Mr. Morrison presented planning commission recommendations on potential
zoning map and zoning code amendments.
Mr. Morrison stated that liquor stores are not permitted in the C1 district. Therefore rezoning
areas from C2 to C1 would further limit where a liquor store can locate.
Councilmember Mavity asked if the rezoning impacts limiting multi-family housing buildings, or
if that would be separate from this. Mr. Walther stated C1 does allow for a modest amount of
housing, but it is pretty limited. Staff will review the code again for the potential impacts to the
adding housing on commercial sites.
Councilmember Mavity continued she would support zoning that would accommodate a future
council’s desire to create more housing densities, adding she wants to be careful not to limit
housing in these areas by rezoning.
Mr. Morrison clarified that housing is allowed in the C1 district as part of a commercial
development. He added if changing to C1, staff would do notices and talk to property owners
for feedback before any changes were made.
Councilmember Harris asked about redevelopment at Texa-Tonka, and if row housing or senior
housing would be considered, given the rezoning.
Mr. Walther stated staff will be doing a study on that area, and would look at appropriate land
use and zoning for that site, and the surrounding area. He added C2 is probably not appropriate
in the long term in that area.
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 3) Page 4
Title: C-1 zoning district retail and service use restrictions
Councilmember Harris asked if there is a timeline set for this study. Mr. Walther stated it is
budgeted for 2019.
Councilmember Hallfin asked if the zoning changes will move any further off-sale liquor licenses
to C2.
Mr. Walther stated this would remain the same, but existing license holders in any zoning
district where liquor stores are no longer permitted, would be allowed to continue for as long
as they continue as a liquor store. If the liquor store goes out of business and it is abandoned
for a period of time, the license would not be able to be re-established.
Councilmember Harris asked if the locations noted on the map near Texa-Tonka are close
enough where folks could bike or walk to the destinations. Mr. Walther stated on Minnetonka
Blvd, neighborhood commercial districts are spaced a half mile apart, which means most
residents are within a quarter mile walk from businesses. He noted residents would still be
within a two-mile bike ride from one of the remaining larger C-2 commercial areas.
Mr. Walther stated there is an opportunity to extend the current temporary limit on the
number of off-sale liquor licenses in the city to allow time for zoning amendments to be
completed. The council agreed to this policy consideration.
The council discussed the various square footage they would support for liquor stores within
the C2 areas. Some councilmembers asserted that 20,000 feet is too large, but that they could
support 5,000-10,000-square-foot stores.
Mayor Pro Tem Brausen stated he is supportive of all staff recommendations.
Councilmember Harris asked staff if a neighborhood-oriented area, with walkable streets, and
low-density residential neighborhoods, with small lots fit better with C1 zoning vs. C2.
Mr. Walther stated yes.
Mayor Pro Tem Brausen added it is difficult to impose limitations on already established
neighborhoods.
Mr. Walther stated staff will return to planning commission for another study session with
more information on this in the near future, and staff will relay the city council’s feedback.
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 3) Page 5
Title: C-1 zoning district retail and service use restrictions
Excerpt of official minutes
City council study session
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
March 11, 2019
The meeting convened at 6:30 p.m.
Councilmembers present: Tim Brausen, Steve Hallfin, Anne Mavity, Mayor Pro Tem Thom
Miller, and Margaret Rog.
Councilmembers absent: Mayor Jake Spano and Rachel Harris.
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), Police Chief Harcey, Sergeant Weigel, Community
Development Director (Ms. Barton), Planning/Zoning Supervisor (Mr. Walther), Planner (Ms.
Monson), Management Assistant (Ms. Carrillo Perez), and Recording Secretary (Ms. Pappas).
3. C-1 zoning district retail and service use restrictions
Mr. Walther asked if council supports the Planning Commission’s recommendations on this
item, and if this needs to come back to council at a future study session.
Mayor Pro Tem Miller stated there was some concern, after the Planning Commission reviewed
this, about the potential for some buildings to be up to 20,000 square feet with conditional use
permit. He stated this was not what council had asked for, and this does not feel like C1 zoning.
Councilmember Rog added this should be discussed again by council, as it does not reflect what
was discussed for this area.
Councilmember Mavity agreed stating this does not seem to reflect the direction from council
especially when working to accomplish a pedestrian-oriented development.
Councilmember Hallfin stated he is willing to discuss it again, but added the council will need to
ensure it looks at the recommendations of the Planning Commission, as they put a lot of good
work into developing this.
Councilmember Brausen stated he had no issue with the recommendations.
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: July 8, 2019
Discussion item: 4
Executive summary
Title: Efficient Building Program (benchmarking ordinance)
Recommended action: Provide direction to staff on proceeding with public process, ordinance
development, and budgeting for an Efficient Building Program.
Policy consideration: Does council intend to move forward with a program to increase
awareness and encourage energy conservation in larger buildings as a step toward achieving
the city’s Climate Action Plan?
Summary: Council discussed utilizing energy benchmarking as an important step to help
implement the Climate Action Plan during the January 28, 2019 study session, providing
direction to continue development of a program.
Continued work with partners in the Hennepin County Efficient Buildings Collaborative has
resulted in a draft program outline for the city. Katie Jones with the Center for Energy and
Environment and Brian Hoffman will be presenting to council program details and experiences
from other cities adopting a benchmarking program during the meeting discussion.
Financial or budget considerations: Adopting an ordinance to establish the Efficient Building
Program will require resources to administer in future years. Participating in the Hennepin
County Efficient Buildings Collaborative and contracting for the services provided by Overly
Consulting would result in a $30,500 budget expense in 2020. Once the program is operating
and the newly created Sustainability Division is operational, staff would review the option to
maintaining within the city.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to continue to lead in
environmental stewardship.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Benchmarking handout
Prepared by: Brian Hoffman, Director of Building and Energy
Approved by: Nancy Deno, Deputy City Manager/HR Director
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 4) Page 2
Title: Efficient Building Program (benchmarking ordinance)
Discussion
Background: The city’s Climate Action Plan (CAP) include goals to reduce energy consumption
across different kinds of buildings, including commercial and residential. One method to
increase awareness and encourage investment in energy efficiency is implementing an energy
consumption benchmarking program for larger buildings. Several cities have implemented
benchmarking requirements and are observing reduced energy consumption as a result.
The city’s sustainability coordinator was part of a working group comprised from several cities
that helped further develop a county wide benchmarking program over the past year. The
Hennepin County’s Efficient Buildings Collaborative has the goal of providing the same
methodology and technical support for benchmarking programs across cities. Creating
uniformity in program reporting will assist commercial property owners that have buildings in
various cities. Additionally, offering staffing resources to help develop and administer a
benchmarking program.
With the city’s participation on the Hennepin County Efficient Buildings Collaborative
framework we are considered a pilot city, and are able to receive free consulting to help
develop a program and ordinance at this time. A future discounted rate will apply for having the
cooperative manage implementing and operating the program. During the past months, staff
from several departments engaged in three workshops with consultants from the Center for
Energy & Environment (CEE), a partner in the Hennepin County Efficient Buildings Collaborative.
The proposed program being presented for council consideration is tailored for the city within
the parameters of the collaborative.
Present Considerations: The proposed Efficient Buildings Program would require annual whole-
building energy (electric and gas) and water consumption reporting for benchmarking large
commercial, multifamily, and public buildings. In addition, the proposed program would have
the benchmarking results be transparent and publicly available beginning the following year.
Buildings over 25,000 square feet, including commercial, business, industrial, multifamily, and
municipal buildings are proposed to be included. Industrial facilities where significant energy
consumption is used for production would be exempt to avoid distorting the comparative
results. This criteria would result in 264 buildings being included in the program and is a
manageable amount. While representing less than 2% of our total building count, it would
create benchmarking for approximately 52% of the total building square footage in the city.
Contracting costs for program management are stepped based on total number of buildings
and would increase if the city program included over 300 buildings for benchmarking.
The annual work or cost for building owners and managers participating is intended to be
minimal. Only entering their building data and gas, electric, and water consumption from the
previous calendar year using the EPA’s ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager by June 1st each year
would be required. This date is being recommended for consistency with surrounding cities.
Staff will be working with the utility providers to simplify reporting of annual energy and water
consumption data to facilitate ease of entry.
Collective results of collected data would then be available and could be utilized by building
owners to compare their energy usage with buildings of similar types. Buildings with higher
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 4) Page 3
Title: Efficient Building Program (benchmarking ordinance)
usage could be identified for education outreach or incentive programs to assist with reducing
the carbon footprint.
Next Steps: CEE is available to assist the city with public outreach and engagement by creating
information and presenting the proposed program to affected property owners at public
meetings. An ordinance establishing the Efficient Building Program beginning in 2020 could be
presented to council for consideration within a few months.
To continue utilizing the Collaborative for implementation and operation, the city would need
to enter into a Joint Powers Agreement with Hennepin County and contract with Overlay
Consulting. This relationship would provide technical assistance to property owners, manage
data, and give additional support to the city.
Unlocking Energy Savings Potential
Over $66 million is spent annually on electricity and natural gas in St. Louis Park buildings. Meanwhile,
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that the average building wastes 30 percent of the
energy it consumes due to inefficiencies. Increasing energy efficiency in St. Louis Park’s large buildings
can help drastically reduce the city’s carbon footprint while cutting owner and tenant energy bills.
As fuel mileage is for cars, energy benchmarking is for buildings
Benchmarking is the ongoing review of a building ’s energy and water performance to ensure a building is
using energy and water as anticipated—over time and relative to peers. Just as fuel mileage helps drivers
understand vehicle efficiency, benchmarking and energy saving assessments give owners and occupants
insight into their building’s energy performance and helps identify opportunities to reduce cost and
waste. Public sharing of the benchmarking data drives the market towards more efficient buildings.
Energy is the largest controllable cost for most commercial real estate. In addition, energy efficient
buildings are highly valued in the market place. Managing energy allows property owners and managers
to better control their building’s energy and operational efficiency and reduce risk.
What are the Benefits?
Helps building owners track energy
performance, control costs, and identify
options to improve efficiency.
Allows for building peer comparison.
Promotes better energy decisions and greater
demand for energy efficiency in the market
Supports the City ’s climate action goal to
ultimately reach carbon neutrality by 2040.Figure 1. An EPA study of benchmarking buildings
showed an average 7 percent savings over three years.
To support community goals and building investment, the City of St. Louis Park is
proposing the Efficient Buildings Program.
St. Louis Park
Efficient Buildings
Program
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 4)
Title: Efficient Building Program (benchmarking ordinance)Page 4
Proposed Framework and Stakeholder Engagement
The proposed benchmarking and energy saving assessment policy would
apply to between 250 and 320 large commercial and multifamily
buildings. The main components of the policy – benchmarking reporting
and benchmarking transparency would be phased in over a few years.
Resources through Hennepin County
St. Louis Park is a pilot City in the Hennepin County Benchmarking
Collaborative, which provides guidance, best practices, and technical
support on benchmarking programs. The Collaborative also provides in-
person and helpline training via phone, email, and online meetings to
building owners and managers to make benchmarking easy and the
results valuable.
Joining Energy and Climate Leaders
Over 25 cities, including mid-size cities like Evanston, Illinois, are showing
that the building market thrives on information. Total building energy
use in cities with benchmarking policies has dropped 1-3 percent
annually. In Minnesota, the City of Minneapolis’ commercial
benchmarking policy has benchmarked over 400 buildings since 2013
and in early 2019 expanded to include multifamily buildings and an
energy evaluation requirement and Edina recently passed a similar
policy. Other cities including St. Paul are actively exploring benchmarking
policies as well.
How It Works
Benchmarking
Is a relatively fast and easy
process, taking an average
of a few hours annually.
Requires no out-of-pocket
expense as the City’s chosen
reporting tool, the web-
based ENERGY STAR
Portfolio Manager, is free.
ENERGY STAR Portfolio
Manager is the nationally-
preferred tool to measure
and track building energy
and water use.
Is more convenient today, as
Xcel Energy and CenterPoint
Energy allows customer‘s
consumption data to be
automatically upload into
Portfolio Manager.
The City will provide access
to trainings and a help desk
for entering data and
understanding a building’s
score.
Energy saving assessments
Are easily accessible through
utility rebate programs.
Are reviews of a buildings
equipment and operation.
Identify and recommend
changes in operating
practices or energy
consuming equipment that
will effectively save on
energy bills.1-3%
Realized Annual Energy
Savings in Cities with
Benchmarking Policies
For questions, contact Building and Energy Director:
Brian Hoffman bhoffman@stlouispark.org
1-3%
Realized Annual Energy
Savings in Cities with
Benchmarking Policies
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 4)
Title: Efficient Building Program (benchmarking ordinance)Page 5
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: July 8, 2019
Written report: 5
Executive summary
Title: Project update: Louisiana Avenue Bridge replacement – city project 4018-1700
Recommended action: None at this time. This report is to provide an update to the city council
on the status of the Louisiana Avenue Bridge replacement project. Staff will be bringing the
public art contract to the city council on July 15 for approval. Please inform staff of any
questions or concerns you may have.
Policy consideration: Does the city council wish to continue to implement the city’s Pavement
Management Program?
Summary: The city council approved the preliminary layout for the Louisiana Avenue Bridge
replacement project at the March 5, 2018 city council meeting. The approved layout consists of
two traffic lanes in each direction, a cycle track bicycle facility, a trail connection along
Minnehaha Creek under the new bridge to allow a safe crossing of Louisiana Avenue, upgrades
to the signal system at Louisiana Circle, storm sewer and watermain.
Included in in this project is a public art component. A committee was selected to choose artists
for the Louisiana Avenue Bridge public art. The committee is comprised of stakeholders from
the St. Louis Park Friends of the Arts, Methodist Hospital, Minnehaha Creek Watershed District,
and city staff. Proposals for the public art on this project were reviewed by the committee. The
finalist, Perennial Flow, is composed by three artists: Randy Walker, Gita Ghei, and Lori Greene.
Financial or budget considerations: This project is included in the city’s 2020 capital
improvement plan (CIP) and will be paid for using state aid funds, franchise fees, utility funds,
and general obligation bonds.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for
people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Perennial Flow – Selected public art submission
Prepared by: Joseph Shamla, Sr. Engineering Project Manager
Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, Engineering Director
Approved by: Nancy Deno, Deputy City Manager/HR Director
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 5) Page 2
Title: Project update: Louisiana Avenue Bridge replacement – city project 4018-1700
Discussion
Background: In 2020, Louisiana Avenue between Louisiana Circle and Excelsior Boulevard is
proposed to be reconstructed. This includes the reconstruction of the bridge over Minnehaha
Creek. A mill and overlay is scheduled for Louisiana Circle. The city council approved the
preliminary layout for this project on March 5, 2018.
The approved layout consists of two traffic lanes in each direction, a cycle track bicycle facility,
a trail connection along Minnehaha Creek under the new bridge to allow a safe crossing of
Louisiana Avenue, upgrades to the signal system at Louisiana Circle, storm sewer and
watermain.
The plans for this project are nearly complete. The consultant will be finalizing the plans in
October at which time, the project will be advertised for bid.
Staff worked with Forecast Public Art to identify a group of public artists for this project. A
request for proposals was sent to 30 local artists for consideration. The artists were asked to
assemble a team which could provide art on different portions of the bridge. The areas
identified for art include on top of the bridge pilasters, on the bridge wall along the creek, and
lighting. A total of 11 proposals were submitted for consideration.
A committee was assembled to select artists for the Louisiana Avenue Bridge public art.
The committee is comprised of stakeholders from the St. Louis Park Friends of the Arts,
Methodist Hospital, Minnehaha Creek Watershed District, and city staff. Proposals for the
public art on this project were reviewed by the committee. The finalist, Perennial Flow, is
composed by three artists: Randy Walker, Gita Ghei, and Lori Greene.
Staff will be bringing the Louisiana Avenue Bridge public art contract to the city council on July
15 for approval. The cost of the public art planned for the Louisiana Avenue Bridge is $180,000.
Proposed schedule:
Final plans and specifications complete October 2019
Advertise for bid November 2019
Approve construction contract December 2019
Construction begins February 2020
Construction complete October 2020
Perennial Flow
A public art proposal for
The City of St. Louis Park’s
Louisiana Avenue Bridge
By
Randy Walker, Gita Ghei, and Lori Greene
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 5)
Title: Project update: Louisiana Avenue Bridge replacement – city project 4018-1700 Page 3
transformation, change
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 5)
Title: Project update: Louisiana Avenue Bridge replacement – city project 4018-1700 Page 4
SEEDS
Composite images are designed to spark curiosity
about ancient creatures, human symbols and to
remind us that all living things rely on fresh water
transformation
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 5)
Title: Project update: Louisiana Avenue Bridge replacement – city project 4018-1700 Page 5
ways of experiencing the Louisiana Avenue Bridge
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 5)
Title: Project update: Louisiana Avenue Bridge replacement – city project 4018-1700 Page 6
SEEDS
Composite images are designed to spark curiosity
about ancient creatures, human symbols and to
remind us that all living things rely on fresh water
Seeds, climate change, plants, animals, fractals, endless repetition of self-similarities
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 5)
Title: Project update: Louisiana Avenue Bridge replacement – city project 4018-1700 Page 7
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 5)
Title: Project update: Louisiana Avenue Bridge replacement – city project 4018-1700 Page 8
TRT
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 5)
Title: Project update: Louisiana Avenue Bridge replacement – city project 4018-1700 Page 9
TRT
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 5)
Title: Project update: Louisiana Avenue Bridge replacement – city project 4018-1700 Page 10
TRT
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 5)
Title: Project update: Louisiana Avenue Bridge replacement – city project 4018-1700 Page 11
TRT
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 5)
Title: Project update: Louisiana Avenue Bridge replacement – city project 4018-1700 Page 12
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 5)
Title: Project update: Louisiana Avenue Bridge replacement – city project 4018-1700 Page 13
SEEDS
Composite images are designed to spark curiosity
about ancient creatures, human symbols and to
remind us that all living things rely on fresh water
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 5)
Title: Project update: Louisiana Avenue Bridge replacement – city project 4018-1700 Page 14
TRT
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 5)
Title: Project update: Louisiana Avenue Bridge replacement – city project 4018-1700 Page 15
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 5)
Title: Project update: Louisiana Avenue Bridge replacement – city project 4018-1700 Page 16
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: July 8, 2019
Written report: 6
Executive summary
Title: Comprehensive plan related zoning map amendments
Recommended action: No formal action required at this time. Please review the proposed zoning
map amendments and provide questions or comments to staff.
Policy consideration: Does council support the proposed zoning changes based on the land use
guidance in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan?
Summary: The 2040 comprehensive plan sets out goals, strategies and direction to carry out
the city’s vision for its future. It includes specific plan sections on land use, housing, mobility,
parks, water resources, racial equity, climate and energy, community health and other
elements required by state law. Planning commission made formal recommendations to city
council on December 5, 2018, and council authorized submittal of the plan to the Metropolitan
Council for review on December 17, 2018. The Metropolitan Council is scheduled to review and
formally accept the plan on July 10, 2019.
Land use changes in the plan resulted in a number of parcels throughout the city having a
mismatch between the new land use guidance and the existing zoning district. Now that
Metropolitan Council consideration of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan is immanent, the city must
bring the zoning into substantial conformance with the comprehensive plan.
Due to the number of parcels (72) and size of the areas proposed to be rezoned, the city will
follow the procedures for a comprehensive rezoning of all the parcels at once. The procedures
are somewhat different than smaller zoning map amendments and requires 5 affirmative votes
from the city council.
Staff held an open house on the proposed comprehensive rezoning on May 8, 2019. Notices
were mailed to all properties to be rezoned, plus all property owners within 350 feet of those
parcels. Social media and email outreach were also used. Ten community members attended,
and no one in attendance objected to the proposed changes.
Planning commission held a public hearing on June 19, 2019. Owners of four properties spoke
at the hearing, and two of them objected to the changes for their parcels. Planning
commissioners unanimously recommended approval of the zoning map amendments. The city
council’s first reading of the ordinance is scheduled for August 5, 2019.
Financial or budget considerations: Not applicable.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of
housing and neighborhood oriented development.
Supporting documents: Comprehensive plan related zoning map amendments map, area maps
showing existing and proposed zoning, 2040 proposed future land use map from the
comprehensive plan
Prepared by: Sean Walther, Planning and Zoning Supervisor
Reviewed by: Karen Barton, Community Development Director
Approved by: Nancy Deno, Deputy City Manager/HR Director
Comprehensive plan
related zoning map a mendments
Minnetonka BoulevardMinnetonka BoulevardMinnetonka BoulevardMinnetonka BoulevardMinnetonka BoulevardMinnetonka BoulevardMinnetonka BoulevardMinnetonka BoulevardMinnetonka BoulevardMinnetonka BoulevardMinnetonka BoulevardMinnetonka BoulevardMinnetonka BoulevardMinnetonka BoulevardMinnetonka BoulevardMinnetonka BoulevardMinnetonka BoulevardMinnetonka BoulevardMinnetonka Boulevard
Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394
Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394Interstate 394
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 6)
Title: Comprehensive plan related zoning map amendments Page 2
Area 1
Area 2
Area 3
C2C1
C2
0 01313THTH LANE WAYLANE WAYLANE WAYLANE WAYLANE WAYLANE WAYLANE WAY
1414THTH ST. W.ST. W.ST. W.ST. W.ST. W.
0
1616THTH ST. W.ST. W.ST. W.ST. W.ST. W.
BP
1-P
City of Golden Valley City of Golden Valley
City of Golden Valley City of Golden Valley
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 6)
Title: Comprehensive plan related zoning map amendments Page 3
Area 4
Area 5
Area 6
MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.
C-2 MX
MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.MINNETONKA BLVD.
POSR-1
R-1
C-1
C-2 MX
MX
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 6)
Title: Comprehensive plan related zoning map amendments Page 4
Areas 7, 8, 9
Areas 7, 8, 9
BP
1-P
1-P
1-G
BP
MX
R-4
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 6)
Title: Comprehensive plan related zoning map amendments Page 5
Area 10
Area 11
Area 12
C-2 1-P
MXMX
BP
C-2
RC
MXMX
1-G
C-2
EDGEWOOD AVE.EDGEWOOD AVE.EDGEWOOD AVE.EDGEWOOD AVE.EDGEWOOD AVE.EDGEWOOD AVE.EDGEWOOD AVE.EDGEWOOD AVE.EDGEWOOD AVE.EDGEWOOD AVE.EDGEWOOD AVE.EDGEWOOD AVE.EDGEWOOD AVE.EDGEWOOD AVE.EDGEWOOD AVE.
POS
R-2
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 6)
Title: Comprehensive plan related zoning map amendments Page 6
Study session meeting of July 8, 2019 (Item No. 6)
Title: Comprehensive plan related zoning map amendments Page 7