HomeMy WebLinkAbout2022/12/12 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - City Council - Study Session AGENDA
DEC. 12, 2022
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meeting or study session.
6:30 p.m. STUDY SESSION – council chambers
Discussion items
1. 60 min. REI system intro
2. 30 min. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy in Development Projects
Written reports
3. Housing and Neighborhood-Oriented Development Systems Discussion Wrap-up
4. 2023 sustainability division programs and budget
5. 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update
6. 2023 Pavement Management Project – Lenox, Oak Hill, Texa-Tonka and Eliot View
7. MnDOT excess land update – Toledo Avenue and 28th Avenue
8. Title VI Plan framework
The agenda is posted on Fridays on the official city bulletin board in the lobby of city hall and on the text display on
civic TV cable channel 17. The agenda and full packet are available after noon on Friday on the city’s website.
If you need special accommodations or have questions about the meeting, please call 952.924.2505.
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: December 12, 2022
Discussion item: 1
Executive summary
Title: REI Systems Introduction
Recommended action: No action is recommended at this time. The purpose of this discussion is
to provide an overview of the topics and concepts that will be introduced during the system.
Policy consideration: No policy consideration currently.
Summary: The report and accompanying presentation outlines the path the city of St. Louis
Park has taken in its race, equity, and inclusion work. Specifically, it builds understanding of the
issues in our organization and intentionally and proactively introduces measures that break
down barriers to creating a just and inclusive community.
• Council members will learn how the race, equity, and inclusion team is normalizing,
organizing, and operationalizing goals and strategies to address the citywide priority for
advancing racial equity for staff and the community at large.
• Council members will learn how the race, equity and inclusion team is providing
leadership and direction to support measures that break down barriers in creating a
more just and inclusive community for all.
• Council members will learn about the hiring of two specialists and Council Members will
learn about infrastructure, training and development opportunities for the city
manager, council, boards/commissions, staff, and the community at large to raise one’s
racial consciousness and build capacity for ongoing work in racial equity.
Financial or budget considerations: Not at this time. Three race, equity and inclusion full time
employee salaries are included in the work outlined in this report.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to being a leader in racial equity
and inclusion in order to create a more just and inclusive community for all.
Supporting documents: NA
Prepared by: Radious Y. Guess, race equity and inclusion director
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 1) Page 2
Title: REI Systems Introduction
Discussion
Background:
As an organization, St. Louis Park formally began its race equity and inclusion journey in 2017
with participation alongside other local government agencies in The Government Alliance on
Race and Equity (GARE). This national network of governmental organizations works to achieve
racial equity and advance opportunities for all. At the time, the demographics of St. Louis Park
as a city were White 81.2%, Indigenous 0.39%, Black 7.34%, Asian 3.80%, Hispanic 3.29% and
other 2.62%. This has shifted over the years. Current demographics show that are
demographics are White 77.13%, Indigenous 0.48%, Black 7.91%, Asian 4.13%, Hispanic 5.3%,
and other 4.4%.
Race equity and inclusion (REI) staff were introduced to the city workforce in 2018. Over the
years, the roles have continued to evolve and the number of staff dedicated to the work has
grown. This recognizes both the complexity of the work and the growing understanding of city
leadership that racism and discrimination in all forms are both persistent and pervasive.
Key important partnerships and activities, at the city-wide level, have included:
1. Council members completed the IDI Assessment – the Intercultural Development
Inventory Assessment measures both where you think you are interculturally (perceived
orientation) and how you navigate cultural differences (developmental orientation).
2. St. Louis Park leaders were introduced to Race Forward – Founded in 1981. Race
Forward brings systemic analysis and an innovative approach to complex race issues to
help people take effective action toward racial equity. Race Forward along with the
Center for Racial Inclusion catalyzes community, government, and other institutions to
dismantle structural racial inequity and create equitable outcomes for all.
3. St. Louis Park leaders collaborated with League of Minnesota Cities and other partners
like GARE to promote excellence in local government.
4. Inclusion of race equity modules as part of city council retreats.
5. Development of Employee Resource Groups and the Race Equity Employee Leaders
(REEL) Team. These internal stakeholder groups serve as a source of fellowship/allyship,
reference, opinion, and advice on critical political and social issues that arise in the
workplace and community at large.
6. City wide training by external consultants and REI staff
Present considerations:
An organizational reorganization in 2022 provided an important way to realign the structure
while explicitly utilizing a race equity and inclusion lens. As part of the wider reorganization, the
city manager established a Design Team of city staff to guide a consultant in evaluating the
city’s staffing structure, roles, and responsibilities/authority level related to REI work. This
design team further advised the city manager in the building-out of relevant programming for
2022 as the Race Equity and Inclusion director was hired and onboarded. Key facets of the
internal current state include:
1. An organizational structure where the REI director reports to the city manager and all
three REI roles are shifted from a combination of direct service and capacity-building to
a more sharpened capacity-building focus. This has meant moving some work to other
teams throughout the city, which results in REI work being further embedded in the
fabric of city operations.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 1) Page 3
Title: REI Systems Introduction
2. Committing to a suite of consultant-led REI work focused on moving the work forward in
an intentional way while the REI director assesses readiness and programming and
develops the path forward. This consultant-led work includes:
a. Over 200 staff participated in the Racially Conscious Collaboration Foundations
course. This was a full-day workshop where staff learn how to use the RCC tool first
as a guide for personal positive racial identity development, then as a roadmap for
effective cross racial dialogue with others, and finally as an assessment tool for
diagnosing and guiding conversations about race.
b. RCC for Executives (RCCE): The entire city leadership team is participating in RCCE.
St. Louis Park leaders are learning to place antiracism at the center of their city
leadership responsibilities including leading change within their work teams and
sustaining healthy cross-racial dialogue in communication with the City Council, in
their leadership of managers, front-line leaders, and in public-facing interactions.
c. RCC Collaborator™ Certification: Fourteen employees from all levels of and across
the organization have participated in a Collaborator certification. Collaborators act
as informal change agents within their departments and will assist the REI team with
facilitation.
d. Executive Coaching: Five leaders are receiving one-on-one coaching to address
predictable personal, professional, and organizational restraining and driving forces
to the change plan.
e. Just Policing: This interactive program equips command staff, sergeants and field
trainers to take a racially conscious approach to police policies, operations, and
interactions.
3. The REI director has developed an educational curriculum and internal facilitators
(include Collaborators and leaders from the city’s ERGs and REEL team) are being
trained to introduce the curriculum to city staff in 2023.
Future state:
We will use promising practices to advance race, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of our
decision-making processes. City staff will be encouraged to take social responsibility for the
development of a trusting workplace environment that is essential to the foundation of an
organization whose community is characterized by racial, ethnic, and cultural diversity. We will
use a racial equity framework along with common language for authentic dialogue so we can
build a sense of community which encourages such dialogue. Professional learning
communities will be introduced as a strategy to advance race, equity, and inclusion within and
around the city of St. Louis Park. Lastly, we will explore why an introduction to individual,
institutional and structural racism is critical to the definition and commitment of race, equity,
and inclusion for the City of St. Louis Park. To achieve this, the following action steps are
planned for 2023:
1. Hiring two REI specialists
2. Defining race, equity, and inclusion and developing policy for the city.
3. Providing leadership and direction for achieving the city’s strategic priority for advancing
racial equity.
a. Develop and implement strategic plan to advance racial equity for staff and
council.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 1) Page 4
Title: REI Systems Introduction
b. Assist staff in ensuring racial equity is considered for new and existing programs
and policies by developing toolkits and providing data, support, and
recommendations.
c. Support leadership in the establishment of an ongoing work in organizational
equity initiatives, objectives, and strategies for advancement of racial equity.
4. Serving as citywide consultants on racial equity matters.
5. Launching a year of learning year for St. Louis Park staff using a hyflex/hybrid train the
trainer model.
6. Title VI – The REI director will be assigned as the city’s official Title VI coordinator to
ensure the city complies with the Title VI Program and will ensure staff understand Title
VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and how it may apply to their work.
a. Information regarding the city’s commitment against discrimination will be
posted in all buildings where public meetings are held and on the city’s website.
The notice provides contact information for the city’s REI division/department
and how to file an official complaint if someone believes they have been
discriminated against.
Next steps: This report kicks off the race, equity, and inclusion study session series.
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: December 12, 2022
Discussion item: 2
Executive summary
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy in Development Projects
Recommended action: Review and discuss the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy.
Policy consideration:
• Does the policy meet the expectations and intent of the EDA/council?
• Does the EDA/council support the adoption of the DEI Policy?
Summary: The city recognizes the importance of creating opportunities for women, black people,
indigenous people, people of color (BIPOC), and Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) to
participate more equitably in the workforce and benefit from wealth building opportunities. It is
recognized that historical and institutional discrimination and racism has disproportionately created
challenges for women and BIPOC/AAPI communities. Women and BIPOC/AAPI individuals and
businesses have faced discrimination and disadvantages in employment and business opportunities
which have resulted in significant disparities in wealth building opportunities.
In response to these inequities and disparities, city staff created a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
policy to be applied when reviewing development projects. The goal of this policy is to promote inclusive
and equitable opportunities for women and BIPOC/AAPI individuals and businesses to provide
opportunities to enable them to build wealth. The policy provides specific goals for the hiring of women
and BIPOC/AAPI business organizations, business enterprises, workforce, and peripheral enterprises for
all new and renovated commercial and multifamily residential buildings receiving EDA/city financial
assistance.
The EDA/city council received a staff report on this policy in March 2022. Since that time the policy has
been placed into effect for all new projects receiving $200,000 or more in financial assistance from the
EDA or city funds. The policy has recently been reviewed by the city’s race equity and inclusion director,
who recommends some minor updates to language, specifically changing “non-white” to “BIPOC/AAPI”.
Staff also recommends increasing the workforce goals for women from 6% to 20% to better align with
state and county goals for Hennepin County.
Financial or budget considerations: The cost of implementing and tracking race, equity, and inclusion
goal requirements adds increased overhead expenses to project costs. While DEI policies are becoming
more commonplace in developments, the EDA/city’s policy includes the tracking of women and
BIPOC/AAPI workforce, which is above and beyond what other jurisdictions currently require. This
metric will likely add additional project costs which will be included in any financial analysis performed
by the city’s financial consultant, Ehlers. Additional city staff time will also be required for monitoring
and compliance.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to being a leader in racial equity and
inclusion in order to create a more just and inclusive community for all.
Supporting documents: Discussion; Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy
Prepared by: Jennifer Monson, redevelopment administrator
Reviewed by: Karen Barton, community development director
Radious Guess, race equity and inclusion director
Greg Hunt, economic development manager
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 2) Page 2
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy in Development Projects
Discussion
In response to discussion and direction provided at the August 16, 2021 Special Study Session,
staff drafted a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policy (“Policy”) which promotes the
inclusion of under-represented persons and businesses in development projects to meet the
city council’s strategic priority of being a leader in racial equity and inclusion in order to create
a more just and inclusive community for all.
The DEI Policy was reviewed by the city attorney and EDA legal counsel. Based on their legal
advice, the DEI Policy is not able to include requirements, but rather establishes goals to create
more opportunities in the development community for historically under-represented women
and black people, indigenous people, and people of color (BIPOC), and Asian Americans and
Pacific Islanders (AAPI). Similar to other EDA/city policies, the development must comply with
the DEI Policy in effect at the time of the application date of planning and zoning applications
and/or signed preliminary development agreements.
Additionally, the local development community was asked to review and provide feedback on
the policy, including market rate and non-profit developers with approved projects in St. Louis
Park. Specifically, this policy was reviewed by Sherman Associates and their contractor Frana
which is developing the Beltline Station Development, Opus Development Group which is
developing and building Beltline Residences, Saturday Properties and Anderson Companies
which are jointly developing the Wooddale Station development, Project for Pride in Living and
their contractor for the Union Park Flats development, and Common Bond which is developing
the Rise on 7 project.
In general, the developers with which community development staff communicated were
supportive of the policy goals and offered feedback that was taken into consideration when
drafting the DEI Policy.
The EDA/city council received a staff report on this Policy in March 2022. Since that time the
Policy has been placed into effect for all new projects receiving $200,000 in financial assistance
from the EDA or city funds. The Policy has recently been reviewed by the city’s race equity and
inclusion director, who recommends minor updates to the language, by changing “non-white”
to “BIPOC/AAPI”. Staff also recommends increasing the workforce goals for women from 6% to
20% to better align with the goals of the state and county for the metro area.
Present considerations: The Policy sets goals for the hiring of women and BIPOC/AAPI business
organizations, business enterprises, workforce, and peripheral enterprises for all new and
renovated commercial and multifamily residential buildings receiving $200,000 or more
EDA/city financial assistance.
The goals for business organizations and business enterprises are similar to the goals
established in Minnesota Housing’s Minority or Women Business Enterprises Compliance Guide.
These goals are increasingly becoming well known and more widely implemented by Twin Cities
area developers and contractors. As a result, area companies have developed systems for
tracking and reporting these metrics for metro cities and state agencies.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 2) Page 3
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy in Development Projects
In addition, the Policy includes goals for workforce and peripheral enterprises to include
opportunities for women and BIPOC/AAPI construction workers and other businesses hired by
the developer in connection with the development (attorneys, financial consultants,
accountants, etc.). The workforce goals are similar to Hennepin County’s goals while the
peripheral enterprise goals are unique to St. Louis Park. The above developers reviewed these
goals and expressed willingness to track and report on these metrics. They also indicated that
implementation of these goals would likely add to the overall costs of projects in the city.
Developers will be made aware of the Policy goals at the outset so that they can factor the
costs of compliance into their proposed project proformas.
Participation Goals Women BIPOC/AAPI
Business Organization 10% 13%
Business Enterprises 6% 13%
Workforce 20%* 32%
Peripheral Enterprises 6% 13% *Increased from 6%
Approved Businesses: The Policy itself does not specify the lists of verified women and
BIPOC/AAPI businesses to which developers will be referred, but approved lists will be included
in the Policy’s user guide. Two lists have been requested to be included by developers. These
lists include the Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) list found on the Minnesota Unified
Certification Program website (www.mnucp.org), and businesses approved by the Central (Cert)
Certification Program, which is a small business certification program recognized by Hennepin
County, Ramsey County, the City of Minneapolis, and the City of St. Paul. The Cert list is found
online at www.cert.smwbe.com. Women and BIPOC/AAPI-owned businesses can apply to both
lists through the Minnesota Small Business Certification Portal. The lists may be modified and
additional lists may be added in the future.
The MNUCP DBE program is for “business owners that are socially and economically
disadvantaged. Women and African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, Asian-Pacific and
Subcontinent Asian Americans are presumed to be socially and economically disadvantaged.”
This program also may qualify other individuals as socially and economically disadvantaged on a
case-by-case basis. Per the website, “to be regarded as economically disadvantaged, an
individual must have a personal net worth that does not exceed $1.32 million. To be seen as a
small business, a firm must meet Small Business Administration size criteria and have average
annual gross receipts not to exceed $23.98 million when averaged over a three-year period.
The owner must have technical competence and experience directly related to the type of work
in which certification is being sought and must be a United States citizen or a lawfully admitted
permanent resident of the United States.”
To be considered an eligible women or BIPOC/AAPI owned business in the CERT program, the
business must be at least 51% owned by one or more women or BIPOC/ AAPI persons and has
its management and daily business operations controlled by one or more women or BIPOC/
AAPI persons who own it. Additionally, the business must be at least 51% owned by one or
more native or naturalized U.S. citizens, or lawfully admitted permanent residents of the United
Stations; is not a broker or manufacturer’s representative, does not operate as a franchisee or
under a franchise agreement, and is not a business in which the owner is also owner or part
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 2) Page 4
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy in Development Projects
owner of one or more businesses that dominate the same field of operation; performs a
commercially useful function; and has been in operation for at least one year, or in operation
for less than one year and is able to provide documentation showing that it has an established
record of generating revenue.
Reporting: The Policy establishes a quarterly reporting period, which commences at the date a
development agreement is entered into until six months following the city-issued certificate of
occupancy. The policy lists the minimum reporting categories including:
• total number of construction-related business enterprises, the percentage of those that
are women and BIPOC/AAPI owned, and the percentage of total development dollars
paid to those business enterprises;
• total number of construction workforce employees, the percentage of total women and
BIPOC/AAPI employees, and the percentage of total construction hours women and
BIPOC/AAPI workforce employees worked;
• the list of peripheral enterprises and the percent of women and BIPOC/AAPI employees;
and
• a summary of efforts made to reach the participation goals.
In addition, reporting will be required on contracts and procurement specifying efforts to award
contracts to BIPOC/AAPI and women-owned business enterprises.
Effective date: The Policy took effect on March 29, 2022 for all newly submitted projects
requesting financial assistance from the EDA/city. The Policy does not apply to applications
previously submitted or projects not requesting financial assistance.
Next steps: The EDA/city council is requested to provide feedback on the Policy during the
December 12, 2022 study session, and determine whether it should be formally adopted.
Previous/future actions Governing body Date
DEI – Report EDA/City Council 8-16-21
DEI – Report to place policy into effect EDA/City Council 3-28-22
Effective December 12, 2022 March 29, 2022
SA285\3\761965.v2
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy
This policy promotes the inclusion of under-represented persons and businesses in
development projects receiving public financing through the Economic Development Authority
(“EDA”) and City of St. Louis Park to meet the city council’s strategic priority of being a leader in
racial equity and inclusion in order to create a more just and inclusive community for all.
The city recognizes the importance of creating opportunities for communities of color and
indigenous people to participate more equitably in the workforce and benefit from wealth
building opportunities. It is recognized that historical and institutional discrimination and
racism has disproportionately created challenges for women, Black, Indigenous, and People of
Color (BIPOC), and Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities. Women and
BIPOC/AAPI individuals and businesses have faced discrimination and disadvantages in
employment and business opportunities which have resulted in significant disparities in wealth
building opportunities.
The goal of this policy is to address these disparities and to promote inclusive and equitable
opportunities for women and BIPOC/AAPI individuals and businesses to build wealth.
The goals set forth in this policy further the city’s racial equity priorities. These goals are
intended to provide an incentive for developers to seek greater participation by women and the
BIPOC community in development projects funded with EDA/city financial assistance.
These goals are included in the list of minimum qualifications for projects seeking tax increment
financing (TIF) assistance from the St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority.
This policy shall be used in conjunction with the established Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Policy User Guide which provides further guidance on reporting requirements and EDA/city
expectations.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 2)
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy in Development Projects Page 5
SA285\3\761965.v2
Effective December 12, 2022 March 29, 2022
1. Applicability and minimum project size
New construction, renovation or reconstruction projects receiving EDA/city financial
assistance
This policy applies to development projects that receive $200,000 or more in financial
assistance from the EDA/city and includes:
a) New construction, renovation, or reconstruction of commercial developments
b) New construction, renovation, or reconstruction of Industrial developments
c) New construction, renovation, or reconstruction of multi-family rental or for-sale
housing developments
d) New construction, renovation, or reconstruction of mixed-use developments
The development must comply with the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy in effect at the
time of the application date of planning and zoning applications and/or a signed preliminary
development agreement. If building permits have not been issued within two years of application
approvals or the building permits have expired or been canceled, the project must comply with
updates to this policy. The EDA/city council may grant an extension of time beyond two years if
a written request for a time extension is submitted to staff and approved by the economic
development authority and/or city council. Requests for extension of time must be submitted to
staff before the termination date.
2. Definitions
A) Financial Assistance: The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Policy applies to all new and
renovated commercial and multifamily residential buildings receiving EDA/city financial
assistance.
Financial Assistance is defined as funds derived from EDA/city and includes, but is not
limited to, the following:
1) Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and/or Tax Abatement
2) Land write-downs
3) EDA grants and loans
4) Affordable Housing Trust Fund (AHTF) grants and loans
5) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds
6) Housing Rehabilitation funds
7) Revenue Bonds (private activity bonds are negotiable)
8) Housing Authority (HA) Funds
9) City of St. Louis Park funds
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 2)
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy in Development Projects Page 6
SA285\3\761965.v2
Effective December 12, 2022 March 29, 2022
B) Business Organization: the developer’s business organization, including subsidiaries and
parent company.
C) Business Enterprises: the contractor(s) and sub-contractor(s) hired by or on behalf of the
developer for the project.
D) Workforce: Employees of contractor(s) and sub-contractor(s) working on the Project
E) Peripheral Enterprise(s): consultants and other businesses hired by the developer, or with
whom the developer has a relationship, in conjunction with the project. This includes, but
is not limited to, attorneys, financial consultants, financial institutions, suppliers,
accountants, etc.
F) Project: The development project as defined in the development agreement between the
EDA and the developer.
3. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion participation goals
General requirements
A development that is subject to this policy shall comply with the following diversity, equity,
and inclusion participation business and workforce participation goals:
Participation Goals Women BIPOC/AAPI
Business Organization 10% 13%
Business Enterprises 6% 13%
Workforce 20% 32%
Peripheral Enterprises 6% 13%
The developer will be required to use reasonable efforts to meet these business enterprise,
workforce, and peripheral enterprise participation goals for women and Black, Indigenous and
People of Color (BIPOC)/AAPI in conjunction with construction, renovation, or reconstruction of
the development.
Participation goals will be applied to the developer’s project as a whole and pertain to the total
amount of construction and related contracts. Developer must provide and use reasonable
efforts to cause its contractors/subcontractors to provide certain information and resources to
prospective contractors/subcontractors before bidding; to implement procedures designed to
notify women and BIPOC/AAPI about contracting opportunities; to document steps taken to
comply with participation goals and the results of actions taken; and to provide compliance
report(s). Refer to the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy User Guide for more information
regarding performance and compliance.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 2)
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy in Development Projects Page 7
SA285\3\761965.v2
Effective December 12, 2022 March 29, 2022
4. Agreements
A development agreement shall be executed between the EDA and the developer, in a form
approved by the EDA legal counsel, which formally sets forth development approval and
requirements to achieve diversity, equity, and inclusion goals in accordance with this policy.
5. Reporting Requirements
The developer will be required to provide written reports to the EDA on a quarterly basis from
the date the development agreement is entered into until six months after the project receives
its certificate of occupancy from the city. The established Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy
User Guide provides further guidance on reporting requirements. At a minimum, the reports
must include the following information:
1) Total number of construction-related business enterprises (e.g. general contractor,
subcontractors) with
a) percentage of women-owned enterprises
b) percentage of BIPOC/AAPI-owned enterprises
c) percentage of total development dollars paid to women-owned enterprises
d) percentage of total development dollars paid to BIPOC/AAPI-owned enterprises
2) Total number of construction workforce employees with
a) percentage of women construction workforce employees
b) percentage of BIPOC/AAPI construction workforce employees
c) percentage of total construction hours women construction workforce employees
worked
d) percentage of total construction hours BIPOC/AAPI construction workforce employees
worked
3) List of peripheral enterprises with self-reported total number of employees, percentage of
women and percentage of BIPOC/AAPI employees
4) Summary of efforts made to reach participation goals and ongoing efforts to reach and/or
maintain participation goals
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 2)
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy in Development Projects Page 8
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: December 12, 2022
Written report: 3
Executive summary
Title: Housing and Neighborhood-Oriented Development Systems Discussion Wrap-up
Recommended action: None
Policy consideration: The purpose of this report is to summarize the outcomes of the recent
discussions within the housing and neighborhood-oriented development system study sessions.
Summary: From October 17 to December 12, 2022, the council had a series of discussions
focused on advancing the city's strategic priority related to housing and neighborhood-oriented
development. The council’s discussions focused on public policy on several topics relating to
providing a broad range of housing, business assistance, and neighborhood-oriented
development. Staff also provided the council with written reports to provide information on
current activities, programs, and policies. This report serves as a summary of all the discussions
and includes the council direction provided.
Financial or budget considerations: Funds are budgeted in the 2023 housing and economic
development budgets for a variety of programs related to supporting housing and
neighborhood-oriented development. Should the council desire a change in work surrounding
housing and neighborhood-oriented development, additional resources may be required.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of
housing and neighborhood oriented development.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Prepared by: Karen Barton, community development director
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 3) Page 2
Title: Housing and Neighborhood-Oriented Development Systems Discussion Wrap-up
Discussion
Background: This system included study sessions covering a range of topics related to housing
and neighborhood-oriented development. Topics were grouped and had self-contained
outcomes based on various policy and practice questions. Reports on these topics were
considered and discussed by the city council, and where appropriate, direction on future
expectations and outcomes was provided to staff for implementation. A summary of the topics
covered in this system includes:
Meeting subject: Housing and neighborhood-oriented development system introduction
Date: 10/12/2022
Overview: Staff introduced the system, including an overview of the housing and
neighborhood-oriented development guiding documents. The proposed topics included in the
system all centered on housing and neighborhood-oriented development policy and provided
opportunities to consider how housing and neighborhood-oriented development is planned for,
constructed, and maintained in the city. The topics examined current programs and offered
opportunities, identified by both council and staff, for expansion or adjustment where
applicable.
Outcomes: The council approved of the topics included in the system. Council members offered
feedback and requested discussion around neighborhood commercial.
Meeting subject: 2023 housing budget overview
Date: 10/17/22
Overview: The 2023 housing budget overview was provided to the city council as a foundation
for policy decisions throughout the housing and neighborhood-oriented development system
discussion. The housing budget overview included the city’s housing fund balances and
information on the city’s housing programs in the following categories: rental and ownership
housing, social service contributions, rental assistance, miscellaneous housing expenses, and
neighborhood grants. The report also provided an overview of the city’s housing authority
programs that utilize federal funding.
Outcomes: The overall housing budget has been discussed with council as part of the 2023 city-
wide budgeting process. Council was supportive of the 2023 housing budget and fund balance
information.
Meeting subject: Tax increment financing (TIF) management report and pooled TIF discussion
Date: 10/24/2022
Overview: Stacie Kvilvang from Ehlers, the city’s financial consultant presented an overview of
the annual TIF management report and discussed the EDA’s continued use of pooled tax
increment for qualified affordable housing uses. The report recommendations included:
• Return of increment to Hennepin County for redistribution from seven TIF districts;
• Transfer approximately $1.22 million from TIF districts with cash balances to the city’s
affordable housing trust fund for 2022;
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 3) Page 3
Title: Housing and Neighborhood-Oriented Development Systems Discussion Wrap-up
• Modify the TIF plan budgets for two TIF districts to allow for an additional 10% to be
retained for affordable housing;
• Develop a spending plan pursuant to recent legislation to allow the EDA to transfer
approximately $1.76 million in unobligated TIF to a new account for use on
construction of buildings.
Outcomes: The council was in favor of all recommendations contained in the report and the
continued use of TIF to support the city's strategic priorities through various housing programs
and new development. Additionally, the council provided direction to staff to:
• review the list of comparable cities prior to next year’s report; and
• have a discussion with the school board on the impact of TIF
Meeting subject: City service and budget impacts from new development
Date: 10/24/2022
Overview: Information was provided in a written report relating to city service impacts of new
development, including calls for service, infrastructure impacts, impacts to the school district,
and benefits of new development.
Outcomes: Council concurred with staff’s conclusion that while the number of calls for service
and the actual costs to the city generated from these developments is difficult to estimate,
there appears to be low financial costs to the city during the term of a TIF district. However,
both the near-term and long-term beneficial impacts are numerous and significant. Continuing
to develop in an efficient and mixed-use pattern is better for the city’s financial health, the
city’s priority to be walking, biking, and transit-oriented, and community goals to make St. Louis
Park a more inclusive place to live, work, learn, and play.
Meeting subject: Managing change in residential neighborhoods
Date: 11/7/2022
Overview: On September 12, 2022, the city council agreed to discuss the topic of managing
change in residential neighborhoods. Council wanted to revisit the Vision 3.0 values,
comprehensive plan goals and strategies, and strategic priorities that are closely related to the
issue of managing change in existing single-family (low-density) residential neighborhoods.
In response, staff conducted a two-part study session to first facilitate a focused conversation
among the council members to share reflections and insights on current policy guidance around
this topic and to help broaden perspectives. Secondly to facilitate a workshop that led to
consensus-based group decisions.
Outcomes: This activity provided staff with consensus council direction on managing change in
low-density residential neighborhoods. It affirmed the strategic priorities and comprehensive
plan goals, and prioritized efforts to support those priorities and goals, and answered the
question:
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 3) Page 4
Title: Housing and Neighborhood-Oriented Development Systems Discussion Wrap-up
How can our low-density neighborhoods become more aligned with our adopted strategic
priorities?
• Engagement and Education
o Neighborhoods create a work plan on how to align with goals
o Educating the community on needs
o Exposure to strategic priorities – do they know them?
o Listen to school district
o Equity in neighborhood leadership
o Events to ease concerns
o Gradual evolution
o Eliminate language barriers to housing options
• Housing Types
o Duplexes throughout
o More townhomes
o Larger family sized homes
o Expand number of bedrooms in single-family homes
o Multigenerational living
o Rezone for duplex/triplex/quad homes at minimal expense
o Rowhomes
o Create more ADUs (accessory dwelling units)
o More duplexes
o Smaller lot sizes and smaller homes
o Multigenerational housing
• Trees and Nature
o Expand / preserve tree canopy
o Increase tree canopy
o Tree preservation (Legacy tree ordinance +)
o Tree preservation incentives or regulation
o Limit pesticide weed control
o More yards with native plantings
• Culture
o Art History Walkable
o Cultural events like Wat Promwachirayan
o Cultural-specific art
o Bike land festivals
• Home Ownership
o Affordable homes to buy
o Entry-level ownership for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color)
community
o Limit investors to preserve ownership opportunities
o More affordable home ownership opportunities
• Complete Neighborhoods
o Retail gap analysis
o 5- / 15-minute neighborhoods
o More places to walk to
• $ (Financing)
o NOAH preservation incentives
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 3) Page 5
Title: Housing and Neighborhood-Oriented Development Systems Discussion Wrap-up
o $ for incentives
o Pilot programs
o Create 30% AMI (area median income) options
o Financial assistance for smart expansion
• Energy Efficient Homes
Staff will follow-up on the ideas and consensus direction from city council in a subsequent
report noting what is currently being done, in process, included in work plans, or unable to be
done.
Meeting subject: Corridor parking
Date: 11/7/2022
Overview: In response to a council requested study session topic related to parking regulations,
council was provided with a written report that explored how changing the approach to parking
could advance the city’s strategic priorities and considered how those changes could impact the
community. The city’s strategic priorities and policies prioritize walkable, transit-focused,
dense redevelopment. The city’s current approach to parking and implementation through
zoning code regulations for parking can often have the opposite effect, preventing proposals
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 3) Page 6
Title: Housing and Neighborhood-Oriented Development Systems Discussion Wrap-up
that otherwise fit within the city’s vision for vibrant, walkable, neighborhood-oriented
development due to insufficient on-site parking.
Outcomes: Council supported staff’s recommendations to allow existing commercial buildings
in the C-1 zoning district to maintain their existing parking as-is, rather than require more
spaces for more intense uses. This approach would help alleviate some of the barriers for small
businesses and local storefronts, while still providing guidance for off-street parking minimums
in the city. This allows for the use of on-street parking for businesses adjacent to residential
neighborhoods.
This topic will be added to the planning commission’s overall work plan and eventually lead to
recommendations for ordinance amendments to the zoning code as it relates to parking
standards, with the goal being to reduce minimum off-street parking requirements in areas
where those requirements serve as significant barriers to investment and are not necessary to
protect public health and safety or pedestrians, bicyclists, or motorists using the facility.
Planning staff will work with other departments to ensure a holistic approach to reduce and
avoid unintended consequences for public operation.
Meeting subject: Inclusionary housing policy discussion
Date: 11/14/2022
Overview: The inclusionary housing policy was adopted in June 2015 and is directly responsible
for the creation of over 800 affordable rental units in St. Louis Park and is achieving the goal of
creating affordable housing opportunities in the community. Staff regularly monitor the
implementation of the policy and make appropriate recommendations to amend the policy as
needed. As part of the housing and neighborhood development systems discussion, staff
brought forth several proposed amendments to the policy for the city council’s consideration.
Outcomes: The city council supported staff’s recommended amendments to the inclusionary
housing policy, including:
• Increasing the affordability period to 26 years to be consistent with the requirement for
housing TIF districts;
• Placing a cap on the payment-in-lieu requirement for for-sale developments to be equal
to the for-sale home purchase amount affordable to a household with an income at or
below 80% area median income;
• Requiring that the master mortgage be taken into consideration in addition to the sale
price of units in housing cooperatives when determining the payment-in-lieu;
• Adding language to the policy to make it clear that the requirement of the affordable
units be managed and operated in compliance with rules and regulations outlined in the
Inclusionary Housing Program Guide and apply to all of the affordable units; and
• Clarifying that if a parking stall is provided with the affordable unit in structured parking,
the stall must be offered at a discounted rate.
Council did not support staff’s recommendation to allow for administrative flexibility in
determining the proportion of affordable bedroom mix in senior-only buildings, as proposed.
Instead, language will be added to the policy that clarifies that an alternative mix for senior-
only buildings may be considered with council approval.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 3) Page 7
Title: Housing and Neighborhood-Oriented Development Systems Discussion Wrap-up
Council also provided direction to staff to continue focusing efforts on 30% AMI units as this is
the greatest need.
Staff will bring the amended Inclusionary Housing Policy to a future city council meeting for
adoption. Upon approval of the amended Inclusionary Housing Policy the new requirements
will become effective immediately for any future residential housing developments required to
comply with the policy.
Meeting subject: Proposed zoning changes
Date: 11/14/2022
Overview: Throughout the year, zoning codes are reviewed in context of council priorities, 2040
comprehensive plan goals, and present considerations. In this context, changes are made
toward the city’s goal to provide for a livable community and a business-friendly climate.
City council was provided with a written report of several proposed zoning amendments that
were in response to comments and requests made by residents and small business owners over
the past year.
Outcomes: The city council was supportive of the proposed amendments, including:
• Allowing class 1 and 2 materials to be painted in all zoning districts;
• Allowing for temporary structures to be up for longer than 14 days per calendar year to
balance the needs/desires of businesses and residential communities with respect to
environmental stewardship;
• Exempting curbside pickup from the in-vehicle service definition to allow businesses to
provide this service in all non-residential districts without obtaining a conditional use
permit;
• Allow fences up to eight feet in height on residential properties when adjacent to non-
residential properties in mixed use and planned unit development districts;
• Allow reasonable space in the front yard of a residential property for parking and
driveway purposes when the parking cannot be accommodated in the rear and side
yards; and
• Miscellaneous clarifications and minor amendments.
The proposed amendments listed above will be brought to the planning commission for review
and discussion in 2022 and 2023. Subsequent ordinance changes will be made accordingly.
Meeting subject: Public art requirements for new development
Date: 11/14/2022
Overview: Council was provided with a written report with two main parts: 1) a description of
public art in new developments, and 2) several public art updates. The first part described the
mechanism that has generated much of the public art that has been installed in private
developments in the city, as well as some details about the process we use to identify
opportunities and select artists and artwork. The second part shared many updates about the
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 3) Page 8
Title: Housing and Neighborhood-Oriented Development Systems Discussion Wrap-up
public art studies, partnerships, programs, and projects that have occurred as part of the
strategic roadmap in which the city and St. Louis Park Friends of the Arts have collaborated.
Outcomes: The city council supported the process for including public art in new developments
and the partnerships and activities to further advance public art installations in the city.
Meeting subject: Single-family rental density cap discussion
Date: 11/28/2022
Overview: The increase of investor ownership of single-family houses has become more
prevalent, both nationally and in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area since 2009. When
the Great Recession forced many homeowners out of their homes in the early 2009/2010,
investors picked up foreclosed single-family houses at low prices and converted them into
rental properties. St. Louis Park also saw a significant increase in single family rentals during
that time. Since 2010, the single-family rental market has continued to grow in some areas of
the metro; however, the single-family rental market in St. Louis Park has remained relatively
constant.
Council members expressed concern about the rise in corporate investor ownership in the
metro area and requested a discussion to consider rental density caps as an option to promote
equity, socioeconomic diversity, and racial integration, while providing opportunities for wealth
building.
Outcomes: Council determined that there is not a significant concern with corporate investor
ownership in St. Louis Park at this time. Council directed staff to continue to monitor and report
back to city council if investor ownership of single-family houses increased over 10% from
current levels. Specifically providing information about why the increase is occurring and the
type of investor owners (I.e., corporate or small-scale). Staff will work to gather data from
separate data bases to monitor the situation and better understand any potential issues. Staff
will also continue to work with other agencies around this issue.
Meeting subject: Small business assistance programs
Date: 11/28/2022
Overview: Staff provided the city council with a written report providing an overview of the
city’s current small business assistance offerings and identifying potential future initiatives.
Outcomes: Council expressed support for the small business assistance, programs, and future
initiatives. Staff will continue to evaluate existing programs and create new programs to
support city businesses. Staff will bring forward more detailed program information about the
proposed Advance commercial business assistance program for the EDA’s consideration at a
future meeting.
Meeting subject: Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policy for commercial developments
Date: 12/12/2022
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 3) Page 9
Title: Housing and Neighborhood-Oriented Development Systems Discussion Wrap-up
Overview: Women and BIPOC/AAPI individuals and businesses have faced discrimination and
disadvantages in employment and business opportunities which have resulted in significant
disparities in wealth building opportunities. In response to these inequities and disparities, city
staff created a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policy to promote inclusive and equitable
opportunities for women and BIPOC/AAPI individuals and businesses to provide opportunities
to enable them to build wealth. The policy provides specific goals for the hiring of women and
BIPOC/AAPI business organizations, business enterprises, workforce, and peripheral enterprises
for all new and renovated commercial and multifamily residential buildings receiving EDA/city
financial assistance.
Outcomes: The EDA/city council received a staff report on this policy in March 2022. Since that
time the policy has been placed into effect for all new projects receiving $200,000 or more in
financial assistance from the EDA or city funds. The policy has recently been reviewed by the
city’s race equity and inclusion director, who recommends some minor updates to language,
specifically changing “non-white” to “BIPOC/AAPI.” Staff also recommends increasing the
workforce goals for women from 6% to 20% to better align with state and county goals for
Hennepin County.
Staff requests the EDA/city council provide feedback on the policy during the December 12,
2022 study session, and determine whether it should be formally adopted.
Meeting subject: 2040 Comprehensive Plan implementation update
Date: 12/12/2022
Overview: The city is almost halfway between the drafting and adoption of the 2040
Comprehensive Plan and the start of the next comprehensive plan update, expected begin in
2026. Staff provided the city council with a written report that lists the activities and
summarizes the progress the city has made on implementing the goals and strategies of the
comprehensive plan as they relate to the housing and neighborhood-oriented development
systems discussions.
Outcomes: The city council has been working through the housing and neighborhood-oriented
development systems discussions for the last few months. Staff will use the input and direction
from these discussions to help update the work plan for the planning commission over the next
several years. This summary will also help as city staff prepare for the next round of
comprehensive plan updates, with public engagement likely to start in 2025/2026.
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: December 12, 2022
Written report: 4
Executive summary
Title: 2023 sustainability division programs and budget
Recommended action: No action required. This topic has been placed on the agenda to
summarize the proposed budget for 2023 climate action programs.
Policy consideration: Does council support moving forward with the proposed 2023
sustainability division programs at the budget levels proposed?
Summary: Staff is proposing to continue some existing programs and launch new programs in
2023. Programs will be funded with the Climate Investment Fund (CIF) as long as they meet the
adopted fund use policy; all remaining programs will be funded with the sustainability
operating budget and with grant funds. When combined with existing policies and internal
projects, these programs are projected to set the city on a path towards continuous and
accelerated emissions reductions.
Financial or budget considerations: Staffing, communications, and general expenses will
continue within the proposed 2023 sustainability operating budget. All participation incentives
for sustainability programs are proposed to be funded from the Climate Investment Fund.
Total 2023 Climate Investment Fund budget: $183,000
Federal funds from the Inflation Reduction Act, Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and
congressionally directed spending will be leveraged whenever possible to reduce city expenses
for incentives and projects, and staff will continue to pursue additional grant funds to further
bring down city costs and to pay for disallowed public purpose expenditures such as
compensation for community members’ time and input.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to continue to lead in
environmental stewardship.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Appendix A: Details of 2023 sustainability incentive programs
Appendix B: Other 2023 sustainability initiatives
Prepared by: Emily Ziring, sustainability manager
Reviewed by: Brian Hoffman, director of building and energy
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 4) Page 2
Title: 2023 sustainability division programs and budget
Discussion
Background: As discussed at the November 2021 city council study session as part of the
greenhouse gas emissions inventory and analysis review, the city’s emissions are trending in the
right direction due to both the city’s efforts and to external policy efforts. While 2021 emissions
data is not yet available, we know that more recent reductions were due in large part to the
impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the city will need additional, aggressive climate action
for these reductions to be sustained, particularly as the city population is projected to grow.
Staff is proposing to continue some existing programs and launch new programs in 2023. When
combined with existing policies and internal projects, these programs are projected to set the
city on a path towards continuous and accelerated emissions reductions.
A summary of the proposed slate of 2023 CIF programs and budget is below, and Appendix A
contains more specifics on each program. As the sustainability division is also involved in public
education, advocacy and policy administration, Appendix B addresses sustainability initiatives
under development or consideration and funded outside of the CIF. A more detailed discussion
of all of these programs, including past communications and engagement efforts and future
plans, can take place at the request of council when the Environmental Stewardship system
returns in 2023.
Present considerations:
Climate Investment Fund budget summary
Program Description 2023 budget
Climate Champions
for business
Continuation of cost share program for properties that take
action to improve energy efficiency, including lighting retrofits,
HVAC and equipment replacement. Energy improvements will
reduce utility bills and can improve aesthetics and security.
Water efficiency measures added.
$ 15,000
Climate Champions
for multifamily
Cost share program for multifamily properties that take action
to improve energy efficiency, including lighting retrofits, HVAC
and equipment replacement. Energy improvements will reduce
utility bills and can improve aesthetics and security. Water
efficiency measures added.
$ 25,000
Climate Champions
for organizations
Cost share program for nonprofits that take action to improve
energy efficiency, including lighting retrofits, HVAC and
equipment replacement. Energy improvements will reduce
utility bills and can improve aesthetics and security. Water
efficiency measures added.
$ 20,000
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 4) Page 3
Title: 2023 sustainability division programs and budget
Climate Champions
for homes
Cost share program for 1-4 unit homes that take action to
improve energy efficiency, including lighting retrofits, HVAC
and equipment replacement, and fuel switching. Energy
improvements will reduce utility bills and can improve
aesthetics and security. Combined HES plus energy efficient
rebates.
$ 32,000
Climate Champions
solar bonus
Offer a 10-15% cost share on rooftop solar for any building
that completes an energy audit, reduces GHGs by a threshold
percentage, and wants to install solar.
$ 25,000
Building Operations
Champions
Offers cost share for commercial property owners who pay for
their building operators to attend Building Operator
Certification (BOC) level 1 or multifamily training and pass the
exam.
$ 3,000
Tree planting
programs: full-service
planting and Shade
SLP
Carbon biosequestration--tree planting to capture and store
carbon dioxide, enhancing property values and aesthetics and
reducing owners' utility costs through increased shading and
reduced flooding.
$ 30,000
Depaving pilot Offers cost share for commercial property owners to turn
unused parking spaces into green space.
$ 25,000
Electrify Everything Home electrification website development and community
engagement initiative, with fuel switching cost share incentives
for 1-4 unit homes.
See Climate
Champions for
homes
Multifamily EV
charging
Offer an incentive for multifamily rental buildings to install EV
chargers. Build off Xcel multifamily EV charging program.
$ 8,000
TOTAL $ 183,000
Next steps: Staff will design and communicate these programs and projects for 2023
implementation.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 4) Page 4
Title: 2023 sustainability division programs and budget
Appendix A: Details of 2023 sustainability incentive programs
* Indicates new program
Community-facing incentive programs
Program name: Climate Champions (with solar bonus)*
CAP goal(s): 1, 2 and 4
Description: Energy assessment, cost share, and recognition program for property owners who
elect to participate; solar bonus incentive for those who first reach energy efficiency targets
Sectors: Business (current), multifamily (new), organizations (new), and homes (new; combines
Home Energy Squad with Energy Efficient rebate match program and increases and expands
rebates)
Equity component: Larger cost share amounts for properties in environmental justice areas of
concern
Risks: Success depends on appetite of property owners (including landlords) to invest time and
money in energy efficiency
CAP strategies’ annual target: 20 commercial buildings retrofit; 900 single-family households
complete retrofits/weatherization; 1,782 households replace electrical equipment and 720
households replace natural gas equipment with high efficiency
2022 results: 29 businesses received energy assessments, and 4 completed energy projects,
collectively saving $15,000 and 71 tons of GHG emissions annually; 136 households replaced
electrical equipment and 49 households replaced natural gas equipment with high efficiency
Proposed budget: $15,000 for businesses; $25,000 for multifamily; $20,000 for organizations;
$32,000 for homes; plus $25,000 for solar incentives for all property types: $117,000 TOTAL
(source: Climate Investment Fund)
Federal funds impact: Inflation Reduction Act provisions, including tax credits and direct-to-
consumer rebates, can offset some city incentives, e.g.
• Home Owner Managing Energy Savings (HOMES) Program (§50121)
• High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate program (§50122)
• Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credit (§13301)
• Residential Clean Energy Tax Credit (§13302)
• Energy efficient commercial buildings deduction (§13303)
Utility rebates for electrification are also in the process of being designed. Because all of these
rebate programs will not be effective until late 2024, city incentives will likely decrease
proportionately once the rebates are available.
Cannot be combined
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 4) Page 5
Title: 2023 sustainability division programs and budget
Program name: Building Operations Champions
CAP goal(s): 1 and 2
Description: Cost share for commercial property owners who pay for their building operators to
attend Building Operator Certification (BOC) level 1 or multifamily training and pass the
certification exam. The cost share and utility rebates bring down the cost from $1,200 to $50-
100.
Sectors: Commercial & industriaI, multifamily
Equity component: Larger cost share amounts for trainees from traditionally underrepresented
groups
Risks: Success depends on appetite of commercial property owners to invest time and money in
training, and availability of facilities maintenance workforce
CAP strategies’ annual target: 38 commercial buildings engaged in building operations BMPs
2022 results: None
Proposed budget: $3,000 (Source: Climate Investment Fund)
Federal funds impact: N/A
Program name: Shade SLP and full-service tree planting (in coordination with
Parks & Recreation)
CAP goal(s): Advanced strategies
Description: Tree planting to capture and store carbon dioxide, enhancing property values and
aesthetics and reducing owners’ utility costs through increased shading and reduced flooding
Sectors: All
Equity component: Larger cost share amounts for properties located where high surface temps
and low tree canopy overlap
Risks: Success depends on property owners desire for additional trees and investment in tree
maintenance
CAP strategies’ annual target: N/A (no targets listed for Advanced Strategies); staff set goal of
additional 300 trees, doubling the annual number planted on private property
2022 results: 95 trees planted on private property, with orders for more trees in 2023
Proposed budget: $30,000 (source: Climate Investment Fund)
Federal funds impact: Inflation Reduction Act provision:
• Urban and Community Forestry Assistance Program (§23003), competitive grants for
tree planting projects that prioritize underserved populations and areas. Solicitation in
mid-2023. Grant awards will be made directly to community-based organizations
(CBOs), so if areas of St. Louis Park meet the low-income criteria (which has not yet
been defined), staff will likely partner with a CBO for these funds.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 4) Page 6
Title: 2023 sustainability division programs and budget
Program name: Electrify Everything*
CAP goal(s): Advanced strategies
Description: This project will be jointly administered by a cohort of metro-area cities
(Minneapolis, St. Louis Park, Edina and Eden Prairie). It has two components:
• Electrify Everything website: cities will work with a consultant to build a website which
will educate the public about electrification readiness and technologies, as well as
provide a list of trained contractors for each type of technology. Cities will also partner
on outreach and engagement strategies to drive residents to the website. Residents
who decide to weatherize, electrify their heating/cooling or water heating will be
directed to the Climate Champions for homes program to explore cost share incentives.
• The three suburban communities (St. Louis Park, Edina and Eden Prairie) are expected to
receive congressionally-directed spending in 2023 for a whole-home electrification pilot.
The project will consist of whole home weatherization and electrification retrofits of 5-
10 existing income-qualified homes across the three cities. The goals include increasing
local contractor knowledge and experience in putting the pieces together and
understanding the sequencing needed for comprehensive retrofits for energy efficiency
in different building types and vintages of homes across the cities. The program will
leverage Center for Energy and Environment’s home energy career trainings, which
target training and paid internships to individuals from BIPOC communities and women,
bringing real-world practice to grow new expertise among underserved communities.
The Electrify Everything website will have a page that serves as a recruitment hub for
interested property owners.
Sectors: Multifamily, 1-4 unit residential
Equity component: Grant funds income-qualified homes only
Risks: Success depends on multiple external factors, such as property owner comfort with
technology, cost of electricity, appetite of property owners to invest time and money in fuel
switching, contractor familiarity with technology, availability of equipment
CAP strategies’ annual target: N/A (no targets listed for Advanced Strategies)
Proposed budget:
• Approximately $15,000 will be used for the development of the Electrify Everything
website (source: sustainability division operating funds)
• $32,000 for Climate Champions for homes, which will include electrification technology
rebates (source: Climate Investment Fund)
• St. Louis Park’s share of $1 million congressionally-directed spending award will fund
education and outreach, contractor training and vetting, project management, design
and construction (source: Senate appropriations committee/federal budget)
• A percent match requirement for the congressionally-directed spending award is still
unknown
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 4) Page 7
Title: 2023 sustainability division programs and budget
Federal funds impact: Inflation Reduction Act provisions, including tax credits and direct-to-
consumer rebates, can offset some city incentives, e.g.
• Home Owner Managing Energy Savings (HOMES) Program (§50121)
• High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate program (§50122)
• Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credit (§13301)
• Energy efficient commercial buildings deduction (§13303)
In addition to IRA rebates, utilities are also in the process of designing rebates for
electrification. Because all of these rebate programs will not be effective until late 2024, city
incentives will likely decrease once the rebates are available.
Additionally, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of State and Community Energy Programs
(SCEP) will have a dedicated team and funding for community engagement and technical
assistance, who may be able to assist with community outreach and education.
Program name: EV charging incentives for multifamily buildings*
CAP goal(s): 6
Description: Cost share funds for multifamily property owners to incentivize installation of
electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in private parking lots with shared (non-dedicated) spots.
Acceptance into the Xcel Energy Multifamily Charging Program will be required for the cost
share. Under this program, Xcel Energy installs and maintains all electric vehicle charging
infrastructure (i.e., transformers, conduit) at no charge to the property owner. The city program
would offset the remaining cost (the electric vehicle charging unit or lease fee).
Sectors: Multifamily
Equity component: Funds only available for properties where residents have “first come, first
served” private parking, i.e., naturally-occurring affordable housing
Risks: Success depends on property managers’ or landlords’ willingness to install charging
stations
CAP strategies target: Goal 6 is to reduce vehicle emissions by 25% by 2030 as compared to the
business-as-usual forecast. A key strategy to achieving this goal is to increase adoption of
electric vehicles such that EVs comprise 28% of total car ownership and 1% of all truck
ownership in St. Louis Park (annual targets are not available given data limitations). An
additional initiative under this strategy is to expand private EV charging infrastructure and
encourage private businesses to offer charging stations for EVs.
Proposed budget: $8,000 (source: Climate Investment Fund)
Federal funds impact:
Inflation Reduction Act provision:
• Tax credit for alternative refueling property (§13404), for electric vehicle charging and
alternative fuel infrastructure installed in low-income or rural census tracts. If areas of
St. Louis Park meet the low-income criteria (which has not yet been defined), staff will
promote the tax credit when promoting the city program in those areas.
Cannot be combined
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 4) Page 8
Title: 2023 sustainability division programs and budget
Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act provision:
• Surface Transportation Block Grant Program provides flexible funding to best address
state and local transportation needs, including installation of EV charging infrastructure
and vehicle-to-grid infrastructure. Staff will review this opportunity for eligibility.
Program name: Depaving cost share pilot (in coordination with Engineering,
Community Development, and Parks & Recreation)*
CAP goal(s): Advanced strategies
Description: Offers cost share for commercial property owners to turn unused parking spaces
into green space, lowering surface temperatures, improving air quality and reducing
stormwater runoff
Sectors: Commercial & industrial, multifamily
Equity component: Larger cost share for areas experiencing higher surface temperatures (urban
heat island)
Risks: Success depends on property owners’ willingness to demolish parking spaces
CAP strategies’ annual target: N/A (no targets listed for Advanced Strategies)
Proposed budget: $25,000 (source: Climate Investment Fund)
Federal funds impact: N/A
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 4) Page 9
Title: 2023 sustainability division programs and budget
Appendix B: Other 2023 sustainability initiatives
Other sustainability projects, programs and policies under development or
consideration
• Idling reduction fleet policy and Idle-Free SLP public educational campaign
• Efficient Building Benchmarking ordinance administration
• Climate equity map and Environmental Stewardship dashboard
• EV Charging Master Plan (in coordination with external partners)
• Sustainability-themed Spring Art Walk (in coordination with Friends of the Arts and the
environment and sustainability commission)
• Energy assistance programs (promoting, coordinating providers and advocating for
improvements)
• Various work groups and coalitions, including:
• Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) Cities and Communities
Coalition
• Hennepin County EV and tree policy work groups
• MnDOT Local Agency Vehicle Miles Traveled work group
These projects, programs and policies are not incentive-based and therefore not funded from
the CIF.
Staff routinely seeks out grant funding opportunities from partners at the federal and state
level and from foundations and will add additional programs or projects to the work plan or
supplement funding for planned programs as opportunities arise. For example:
• Within the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), the Department of Energy’s
Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program is expected to launch
in late 2022 and the city will likely be eligible to receive formula funds of approximately
$120,000. These funds may be used for a wide range of energy efficiency projects or
potentially as match for other federal funding opportunities.
• Also in the IIJA, Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grants will provide $2.5 billion in
competitive grants to public sector entities to support the installation of publicly
accessible charging infrastructure. IIJA requires at least 50% of these funds to be
designated for a community grant program prioritizing rural and low- and moderate-
income communities with a low ratio of private parking spaces. City staff have already
identified areas of St. Louis Park that have limited parking and are near multifamily
housing as candidates for additional public chargers. Staff will follow this funding
opportunity closely as more information becomes available.
• Within the IRA, the Clean Electricity Investment Tax Credit has been extended and
modified so that non-tax-paying entities may receive (via “direct pay”) the financial
benefit of the tax credits if they meet requirements for domestically produced
construction materials. Staff will work to ensure these funds are received for the solar
installations at The Rec Center and Fire Station 1. There is also a possibility that the
funds can be used to complement a solar array with battery storage, allowing the city to
pilot test this technology in an effort to boost climate resilience.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 4) Page 10
Title: 2023 sustainability division programs and budget
Sustainability staff has provided the relevant departments with information about provisions
within the IRA and IIJA which may provide financial benefits to internal projects within their
areas and will continue to monitor opportunities closely to determine how to maximize public
dollars.
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: December 12, 2022
Written report: 5
Executive summary
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update
Recommended action: No action is required at this time. Please review the report and provide
comments or questions to city staff.
Policy consideration: How has the city progressed over the last five years to implement the
housing and neighborhood-oriented development goals and strategies of the 2040
comprehensive plan? What goals and strategies should be prioritized over the next five years
for implementation?
Summary: The city is almost halfway between the drafting and adoption of the 2040
Comprehensive Plan and the start of the next comprehensive plan update, expected in 2026.
This report serves as a list of activities and summary of the progress the city has made on
implementing the goals and strategies of the comprehensive plan as they relate to community
development, and as part of the housing and neighborhood-oriented development systems
discussions.
Attached to this document is a table of all the goals and strategies listed within Chapter 5:
Livable Communities of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan, planning and zoning studies listed in
Chapter 8: Implementation, and a progress summary.
Financial or budget considerations: None at this time.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of
housing and neighborhood oriented development.
Supporting documents: Discussion, Table of Chapter 5 Livable Communities goals and
strategies, Planning and zoning studies list from Chapter 8: Implementation
Prepared by: Laura Chamberlain, senior planner
Reviewed by: Sean Walther, planning manager/deputy CD director
Karen Barton, community development director
Approved by: Cindy Walsh, deputy city manager
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5) Page 2
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update
Discussion
Background
The city comprehensive plan is an official document that guides the future of the City of St.
Louis Park. It sets forth policies and programs that govern land use, transportation, public
facilities, economic development, housing and other areas of city government. The
comprehensive plan is required by state statute to be updated at least every ten years to
comply with regional plans of the metropolitan council. The city is almost halfway between the
writing of the current plan, and the start of the next update. This report serves as a summary of
the progress the city has made on implementing the goals and strategies of the comprehensive
plan.
The city council adopted the 2040 Comprehensive Plan on August 5, 2019. This was after over
two years of engagement with the community and collaboration between city staff, planning
consultants, the planning commission, and city council. The foundation of the comprehensive
plan was established around the city’s Vision 3.0, which culminated in the five strategic
priorities of the city in 2017.
The 2040 Comprehensive Plan set the goals and strategies for the various roles and
responsibilities for the City of St. Louis Park through the year 2040. The plan’s fifth chapter,
Livable Communities, makes up the various topics covered by the Community Development
Department. These include:
• Land Use
• Economic development and redevelopment
• Housing
• Public art
• Historic resources
• Plan by neighborhood
For each subsection of Chapter 5: Livable Communities, above, the plan identified goals and
strategies to implement those goals. Chapter 8: Implementation of the comprehensive plan
mainly includes the tools used to implement goals, policies and strategies, but also included
specific lists of planning and zoning studies to be conducted.
Present Considerations
Attached to this document is a table of all the goals and strategies listed within Chapter 5:
Livable Communities of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan, planning and zoning studies listed in
Chapter 8: Implementation, and a progress summary.
For this summary, staff have categorized implementation into several categories:
• On-going implementation – these items involve existing policies, programs, or practices
that are continually implemented by city staff through everyday work.
• Specific policies and programs that have been implemented or adopted
• Specific policies and programs that are on the planning commission work plan to be
implemented or adopted over the next couple of years
• Not yet implemented – these items may need to be assessed for priority as the planning
commission establishes their work plan over the next couple of years
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5) Page 3
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update
The purpose of this summary is to see how actions over the last five years have been guided by
the 2040 Comprehensive Plan, and to identify those areas that still need to be implemented.
Next steps
The city council has been working through the housing and neighborhood-oriented
development systems discussions for the last few months. Going forward, staff will use the
input and direction from these discussions to help update the work plan for the planning
commission over the next several years. This summary will also help as city staff prepare for the
next round of comprehensive plan updates, with drafting likely to start in 2025.
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Livable Communities Goals and Strategies 1
Livable Communities Goals and Strategies
Goal 1. Provide attractive public streets, spaces and facilities that contribute to creating connections, a strong sense of community, and opportunities
for community interaction.
Strategy Actions
A.Establish unique and cohesive street character for major community
streets, emphasizing safe and comfortable pedestrian and bike
connections, landscaping, lighting, and seating areas for the use
•We invested in Historic Walker Lake area to improve ADA accessibility,
sidewalks, bikeways, parking, streets, wayfinding and branding
implementing key elements of the Historic Walker Lake plan.
•We created unique designs, landscaping, and public art into Louisiana
Avenue Minnehaha Creek bridge, and before that the Highway 7 and
Louisiana Avenue interchange building upon the Louisiana Avenue LRT
Station Area Plan.
•We reduced 36th Street from 4 to 3 lanes and added a cycle track to the
south, adding to previous pedestrian, lighting, landscaping seating, bike
racks, and multiple art installations along this corridor that is supported by
a special services district.
•We improved safety for all users to cross Highway 7 at Wooddale Avenue
to connect to the LRT station with a new interchange, signal systems, bike
lanes, and a regional trail tunnel.
•We transformed Beltline Boulevard and Monterey Avenue between CSAH
25 and Excelsior Boulevard with a road diet, bike lanes, trails, crossing
improvements, a roundabout and regional trail bridge over Beltline to
improve safety for all users.
•The city has installed new sidewalks with poetry engravings, bike lanes,
seating and landscaping on Texas Avenue helping connect the community
to transit stops and the Texa-Tonka and Knollwood areas. Private owners
and developments have helped to improve the sidewalks and adjacent
land uses in the Texa-Tonka area along Minnetonka Boulevard.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 4
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Livable Communities Goals and Strategies 2
• The city continues to work with Hennepin County to similarly improve
Minnetonka Boulevard both at Texas Avenue and east of Highway 100.
• Cedar Lake Road has been improved bike facilities and a roundabout.
More improvements are planned for the intersection with Louisiana
Avenue, and Louisiana Avenue north to I-394
• Preceding the comprehensive plan the city transformed Park Place
Boulevard and Excelsior Boulevard and both are supported with special
services districts to help maintain the lighting, landscaping, banners,
irrigation and other services for these community streets.
B. Create well-defined community gateways at appropriate points where
major streets cross the city’s municipal boundary, using location
appropriate signage, public art, public plazas, and architecturally
significant buildings.
• These were previously addressed with city-entrance monument signs and
landscaping at it borders. The West End area reflects these efforts. The
city is working to make each of the LRT stations areas reflect this as well.
C. Incorporate “complete streets” design principles into future
improvements of the community’s streets to implement planned multi-
modal transportation networks and to help achieve the city’s goals to
reduce vehicle emissions and provide a more equitable system of
transportation options.
• Monterey Drive Multimodal Study (2018)
• See the list of responses in A above for examples
D. Provide pedestrian and bicycle pathways that connect key departure
points and destinations throughout the city and require installation of
identified connections during the redevelopment process.
• These were discussed in depth during the connected infrastructure system
study sessions earlier this year. Some of the city’s activities are described
in responses to A above.
E. Promote high quality design of public and private open spaces that will
benefit anticipated users with proper consideration given to use, design,
maintenance, appearance, location, and accessibility of the space.
• Continued inclusion of designed outdoor recreation area in new
development, including in some developments the publicly visible and
accessible spaces such as the green in front of Bridgewater HQ, the urban
forest at Via Sol, and the planned plaza at OlyHi next to Wooddale Avenue
station.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 5
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Livable Communities Goals and Strategies 3
F. Encourage placement of artwork and amenities throughout the city to
help increase civic prominence and a unique sense of place where
appropriate.
• Arts and culture strategic framework focus group (2019)
• The ongoing programs and the projects and initiatives highlighted in the
public art update provided to city council last month.
G. Continue to use appropriate outdoor lighting for illumination of streets,
parking lots, and other public and private areas.
• On-going implementation:
o Street design including pedestrian-scale lighting as well as vehicle-
scale lighting
o Stricter exterior lighting standards for parking lots were adopted in
2019 to meet public safety goals as well as reduce light pollution and
conserve energy.
H. Incorporate “living streets” design principles into future improvements
of the community’s streets in order to enhance the corridors’
appearance and environment.
• City Council adopted the living street policy in August 2019.
• Recent street improvements that have incorporated “living streets” design
principles:
o 36th Street West improvements
o Beltline Boulevard and Monterey Drive improvements
o Historic Walker Lake street improvements
o Louisiana Avenue South improvements
I. Continue to reduce the level of obtrusive signage within the city by
promoting a balance between aesthetics, safety, and communication
needs.
• Miscellaneous Text Amendments (2016)
o Sign code amended to increase the size maximum allowed for signs in
the R-4 Multiple-Family Residence district and the R-C High-Density
Multiple-Family Residence district.
o Sign code amended to decrease the minimum setback required for
signs at schools, community centers, libraries, religious institutions,
and other similar uses.
• Sign code amended to allow rooftop signs in narrow circumstances (2021)
• Sign code amended to increase the maximum sign face area allowed for
electronic signs for large properties in the park and open space district
and residential districts (2022)
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 6
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Livable Communities Goals and Strategies 4
J. Work with internal and external partners to ensure that roadway and
pedestrian facilities, including bridges, located in the city are functional
and aesthetically attractive.
• Louisiana Avenue bridge update over Minnehaha Creek and Perennial
Flow art installation (2022)
K. Continue to achieve high quality design standards for the exterior
appearance of public structures.
• No specific implementation of this other than meeting zoning
architectural design standards
L. Establish a timetable and implementation strategies to bury utilities.
Continue to require the undergrounding of utilities in all new
developments and redevelopment projects.
• Development review requires buried utilities as part of the review process
Goal 2. Promote building and site design that creates a connected, human scale, multi-modal, and safe environment for people who live and work
here.
Strategy Action
A. Encourage quality design in new construction such as building
orientation, scale, massing, and pedestrian access.
• MX-1 and MX-2 districts have specific standards for building orientation,
scale, massing, and pedestrian access
• The city will consider massing and bulk standards as part of the zoning
code update, scheduled in 2023-2024
B. Encourage new buildings to orient to walkable streets with appropriate
building height to street width ratios.
• Ground floor transparency ordinance (2019)
C. Revisit the city’s architectural control ordinance ensuring that it
provides clear direction to developers and enhances the visual quality
and livability of the city.
• Architectural design ordinance (2020)
• The city will consider updates to architectural standards as part of the
zoning code update, scheduled in 2023-2024
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 7
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Residential Land Use Goals and Strategies 5
D. Require parking lots to be separated from sidewalks and roadway
facilities with appropriate landscaping, street walls or berms, and curbs.
• This is an on-going policy that the city implements through site plan
review for proposals
E. Continue to enforce parking lot standards that address surfacing, light
standards, tree canopy, and heat island reduction.
• This is an on-going policy that the city implements through site plan
review for proposals
• The city will consider updates to tree preservation and planting standards
as part of conversations with the Natural Resources department, expected
in 2023
F. Incorporate Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED)
principles and practices into building and site design to maximize
visibility and eyes on the street.
• Ground-floor transparency ordinance
• On-going implementation of lighting standards
Residential Land Use Goals and Strategies
Goal 1. Create a mix of residential land use and housing types to increase housing choices, including affordable housing, and increase the viability of
neighborhood services through redevelopment or infill development.
Strategy Action
A. Engage the community to determine how to allow a broader range of
housing types and densities within and adjacent to existing low density
residential neighborhoods that are complementary and compatible with
the existing neighborhood character.
• The city will consider expanding housing types allowed in low density
residential areas as part of the zoning code update, scheduled in 2023-
2024
B. Promote and support the development of medium and high density
residential land uses near commercial centers and nodes.
• Rezoning of properties to MX-1, MX-2
• The city will consider establishing a TOD zoning district, scheduled in 2023-
2024
C. Ensure that new and redeveloped medium and high density residential
land uses are located within walking distance of transit and commercial
services.
• Off-street parking requirements (2021) – transit reduction language added
and refined
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 8
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Commercial & Office Land Use Goals and Strategies 6
D. Engage the community to explore how to increase the mix of housing
types near transit corridors, parks and commercial nodes/corridors.
• The city will consider expanding housing types allowed in all residential
areas as part of the zoning code update, scheduled in 2023-2024
• The city will consider establishing a TOD zoning district, scheduled in 2023-
2024
Goal 2. Preserve and enhance the livability and unique character of each neighborhood’s residential areas.
Strategy Action
A. Promote maintenance and reinvestment of existing residential land uses
that have experienced deferred maintenance, deteriorating property
values, high vacancy rates, or reuse opportunities.
• On-going implementation of single- and multi-family housing
improvement loan programs and housing maintenance programs
B. Require the creation of appropriate and effective buffer or transition
areas between different land use types.
• On-going implementation of land use map, zoning districts, and screening
standards
Commercial & Office Land Use Goals and Strategies
Goal 1. Preserve and enhance community commercial centers that offer desirable and complementary commercial retail and services for the
community’s residents, workers, and visitors.
Strategy Action
A. Minimize the adverse impacts associated with large community
commercial centers using design, performance standards, site planning
techniques, minimizing surface parking, buffering, and traffic
management.
• Ground floor transparency ordinance (2019)
B. Ensure that community commercial centers contribute to an
aesthetically positive identity for the community.
• Architectural design standards
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 9
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Commercial & Office Land Use Goals and Strategies 7
C. Integrate community travel routes within commercial centers in order
to improve overall multi-modal safety, access and circulation around
and through the centers.
• On-going implementation of multi-modal transportation analysis during
development review
D. Encourage infill development and aesthetic improvements to
commercial surface parking lots in order to enhance adjacent public
streets and sidewalks and more efficiently utilize commercial land.
• Establishment of MX-1 and MX-2 zoning districts
• The city will consider a corridor parking policy for neighborhood
commercial uses, expected in 2023
E. Promote the inclusion of office employment uses within or adjacent to
large commercial developments to strengthen the functionality and
vitality of community commercial centers.
• Rezoning of numerous properties from commercial to office, especially
along Wayzata Boulevard
Goal 2. Create commercial corridors that are functional, vibrant, environmentally sustainable, and present an aesthetically positive identity for the
community.
Strategy Action
A. Minimize the adverse impacts associated with commercial corridor
development using design, performance standards, site planning
techniques, and buffering.
• On-Going Implementation of zoning standards and development review
B. Enhance commercial corridors’ compatibility with nearby residential
areas.
• Rezoning C-2 General Commercial properties to C-1 Neighborhood
Commercial (2019)
• MX-1 Zoning District (2019)
Goal 3. Preserve, revitalize and foster neighborhood commercial nodes that provide essential neighborhood commercial services, unique
neighborhood identity, and neighborhood gathering opportunities.
Strategy Action
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 10
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Commercial & Office Land Use Goals and Strategies 8
A. Encourage infill and redevelopment in neighborhood commercial nodes
that is neighborhood scale in building size, architecture, and orientation
to the street.
• C-1 retail and service site requirements (2019)
• Rezoning C-2 General Commercial properties to C-1 Neighborhood
Commercial (2019)
• Historic Walker Lake and Texa Tonka small area plans
B. Implement convenient pedestrian access to and within the
neighborhood commercial nodes from adjacent neighborhoods and
transit stops.
• On-going implementation of Connect the Park
• Recent improvements to 36th Street and Wooddale Avenue
• Upcoming improvement to Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue
• Partner with Hennepin County on Minnetonka Boulevard improvements
C. Re-guide or rezone targeted commercial nodes in order to require a mix
of commercial and employment or residential uses when they
redevelop.
• MX-1 Zoning District (2019)
• MX-2 Zoning District (2020)
D. Consider rezoning certain commercial areas or small commercial sites
that abut residential properties from General Commercial to
Neighborhood Commercial to reduce the potential size and intensity of
future buildings and commercial uses.
• Rezoning C-2 General Commercial properties to C-1 Neighborhood
Commercial (2019)
E. Re-guide under-performing commercial nodes to medium or high
density residential to encourage redevelopment.
• Sam’s Club land use and development study (2019)
F. Prepare small area plans for commercial nodes and corridors where the
appropriate future land uses are unclear, where significant changes are
anticipated, and where additional guidance is needed.
• Texa-Tonka small area plan (2019)
• Historic Walker Lake plan (2019
• Sam’s Club land use and development study (2019)
Goal 4. Preserve and enhance office/medical centers to retain and grow the community’s employment opportunities, tax base, and convenient access
to desirable services.
Strategy Action
A. Support expansion of existing medical centers and supportive uses. • On-going implementation of land use plan and zoning districts
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 11
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Mixed-Use Goals and Strategies 9
B. Support new and expanded office development. • Rezoning of numerous properties from commercial (C-2) to office (O)
C. Re-guide or rezone targeted commercial corridors from general
commercial to office in order to promote redevelopment.
• Sam’s Club land use and development study (2019)
D. Integrate community travel routes within office and medical centers in
order to improve overall multi-modal safety, access and circulation
around and through the centers.
• On-going implementation of multi-modal transportation analysis during
development review
Mixed-Use Goals and Strategies
Goal 1. Continue to enhance the Park Commons area as St. Louis Park’s “town center.”
Strategy Action
A. Promote and support the redevelopment of the remaining designated
redevelopment sites in the Park Commons area with mixed-use
buildings to strengthen the area’s function as the “town center.”
• 4800 Excelsior / Fresh Thyme
• Bridgewater Bank Headquarters
B. Ensure that future redevelopment provides similar building forms and
densities that will complement the character of the “town center.”
• 4800 Excelsior / Fresh Thyme
• Bridgewater Bank Headquarters
• On-going implementation
C. Require that future redevelopment is designed with buildings that are
oriented to the public streets and spaces that are the heart of the “town
center.”
• On-going implementation
D. Encourage integrating community travel routes within the area in order
to improve overall multi- modal safety, access and circulation around
and through the area.
• On-going implementation
E. Engage the community to update the Park Commons West Master Plan
and implementation strategies.
• No progress
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 12
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Mixed-Use Goals and Strategies 10
Goal 2. Pursue redevelopment of future light rail transit station areas as transit-oriented, high density, well-connected, mixed-use centers.
Strategy Action
A. Promote and support the Wooddale Station Area as a transit-oriented
mixed-use neighborhood.
• Rezoning of EDA & Standal parcels to MX-1 (2019) – later rezoned to PUD
for OlyHi development (2022)
B. Promote and support the Beltline Station Area and Louisiana Station
Area as primarily transit-oriented, mixed-use employment centers.
• Rezoned parcels to Business Park, and some to mixed-use in 2019-2020
C. Require transit-oriented development on properties near future light
rail transit stations consistent with station area framework plans.
• Beltline Station Development, OlyHi, Risor, Corsa planned unit
development examples (2021-2022)
• Ongoing
D. Consider adopting form-based codes or similar zoning amendments to
help implement station area framework plans.
• On planning commission work plan (2023-2024)
Goal 3. Expand the development of mixed-use districts within St. Louis Park to create a more livable and connected community.
Strategy Action
A. Encourage and support mixed-use infill and redevelopment when
compatible with existing or surrounding planned land uses.
• Ongoing implementation (see development dashboard for many
examples)
B. Expand the distribution of mixed-use redevelopment in neighborhood
commercial nodes and along commercial corridors to the broader
community.
• Rezoning of parcels throughout the community to C-1 and MX-1, both of
which allow for a mix of uses (2019)
• Creation of MX-2 district and rezoning of parcels in Historic Walker Lake to
MX-2 (2020)
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 13
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Industrial & Business Park Land Use Goals and Strategies 11
C. Promote and support reinvestment in the Historic Walker Lake area as a
mixed commercial/industrial district that is compatible with its unique
character and scale.
• Historic Walker Lake Revitalization Plan (2019)
• Historic Walker Lake parking ordinance (2019)
• Creation of MX-2 mixed-use zoning district (2020)
D. Complete a small area plan for the Historic Walker Lake area. • Historic Walker Lake Plan (2019)
E. Promote and support mixed-use redevelopment in The West End to
strengthen its role as a unique and dynamic place to live, work, shop,
and play in the metropolitan area.
• Elan West End (2019), 10 West End (2020), Caraway (2023) openings
• Shops at West End PUD amendment to allow more uses and flexibility
(2021)
• Metro Transit Route 9 expanded service
• Gamble Drive open streets special events plan (2018)
Industrial & Business Park Land Use Goals and Strategies
Goal 1. Protect and enhance the viability of the city’s designated industrial and employment areas through reinvestment in long-term industrial areas,
and adaptive reuse and eventual redevelopment in transitional industrial areas.
Strategy Action
A. Protect planned industrial areas from encroachment by non-industrial
and incompatible uses.
• On-going implementation through established land use guidance and
associated zoning districts for industrial uses
B. Encourage and support the appropriate evolution and expansion of
individual industrial businesses.
• On-going implementation
• Approved CUP for Nordic Ware expansion (2020)
C. Support new industrial land uses that are able to minimize negative
environmental impacts and nuisances to surrounding land uses.
• On-going implementation
D. Promote and support the transition and eventual redevelopment of
physically and economically obsolete or underutilized industrial
properties.
• Amendments made to industrial district regulations
• Some properties were rezoned from industrial to business park to
transition them to higher-level employment or mixed-use to allow active
commercial ground floor use and either office or residential upper levels.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 14
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Industrial & Business Park Land Use Goals and Strategies 12
E. Consider creating a Transitional Industrial zoning district and rezoning
suitable redevelopment properties to Transitional Industrial.
• Not yet implemented
• Amendments made to existing industrial district regulations rather than
create a new district.
• Some properties were rezoned from industrial to business park to
transition them to higher-level employment; others were rezoned to
residential for future redevelopment options
F. Enhance industrial areas’ compatibility with nearby residential
neighborhoods.
• On-going implementation through performance standards: off-street
parking, landscaping and screening, architectural design, and signs
• Some of these standards may be analyzed and updated during the zoning
code update; expected 2023-2024
G. Prepare small area plans for both reinvestment industrial areas and
transitional industrial areas where significant changes are anticipated.
• Not yet implemented, except the Former Sam’s Club land use and
development study (2020)
Goal 2. Promote the development of business park land uses in designated employment areas as a way to expand the city’s employment base and
opportunities, increase the city’s tax base, and meet the changing market and technological needs of the business sector.
Strategy Action
A. Promote business park developments that utilize more efficient land use
and building designs than traditional industrial development, such as
multi-story buildings, multi-tenant buildings, and structured parking.
• Sam’s Club land use and development study (2020)
B. Encourage and support new business park developments that are
designed as employment centers that are integrated into the community
with strong connections to adjacent public streets and spaces, natural
features, transit, and other community amenities.
• Sam’s Club land use and development study (2020)
• On-going support of businesses within Beltline Industrial Park
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 15
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Public Land Use Goals and Strategies 13
C. Require that new business park developments provide efficient and
attractive parking designs, appropriate landscaping, and high quality
building architecture.
• Sam’s Club land use and development study (2020)
D. Allow limited commercial and service uses that provide valuable services
to, and extend hours of activity within, employment centers without
eroding the employment focus of these areas, sites and buildings.
• On-going implementation through the Business Park zoning district,
putting a maximum square footage on complementary commercial uses in
business parks
Public Land Use Goals and Strategies
Goal 1. Ensure access to public land, parks, open space and facilities by the entire community, including children, adults, the elderly, those in multi-
family housing, people of color, and those with mobility challenges.
Strategy Action
No strategies listed • On-going implementation: 100% of residential areas are already within ¼ mile of parks or open space land
Goal 2. Maintain accessibility to community facilities and public places consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Strategy Action
No strategies listed • ADA Transition Plan (2018)
• Building and energy department reviews all building projects for compliance with current MN ADA codes
Goal 3. Consider increasing natural environment areas on public land.
Strategy Action
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Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 16
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Economic Development Goals and Strategies 14
No strategies listed • Pollinator friendly policy was recently adopted
• The city’s departments are working on implementing no-mow areas
Economic Development Goals and Strategies
Goal 1. Promote economic development and redevelopment activities that enhance the livability and vitality of the community.
Strategy Action
A. Maintain and promote economic development financing policies and
programs to assist with redevelopment and revitalization of the city’s
commercial, office, and industrial areas.
• Tax Increment Financing Policy update (2021) and various small business
assistance programs such as the Revolving (gap financing) Loan, 2% Loan,
and Advance commercial assistance programs.
B. Promote sustainable building projects consistent with the city’s Green
Building Policy energy savings and water conservation targets, Leadership
in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards, State of Minnesota
B3 Guidelines, or comparable green certification applicable for each
project’s particular development type.
• Green Building Policy update (2022)
• Efficient Building Benchmarking Ordinance
• Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) and Revolving Loan Fund financial
resources can be used for energy efficiency and renewable energy
improvements to buildings.
C. Encourage efficient, compact redevelopment that results in the highest
and best land uses so as to minimize energy and infrastructure costs.
• On-going implementation
• Encourage infill development and redevelopment areas to result in best
land uses and most efficient use of land
D. Encourage economic development and redevelopment that incorporate
Livable Communities planning principles as established in the Land Use
section of the 2040 Plan.
• On-going implementation
E. Promote the development of new market rate and affordable housing
which will provide residents with additional housing options, assist in
retaining and attracting talent for area employers, and further support
local commercial businesses.
• Inclusionary Housing Policy (2020)
• On-going implementation
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 17
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Economic Development Goals and Strategies 15
F. Encourage redevelopment that incorporates efforts to achieve the goals
of the Climate Action Plan, such as renewable energy resources, on-site
and community solar, purchase of renewable energy credits through
electric utility programs, and other such efforts that reduce energy usage.
• Green Building Policy update (2022)
• Efficient Building Benchmarking Ordinance
• Solar Sundown reimbursements
Goal 2. Foster the expansion, redevelopment and revitalization of the city’s commercial, industrial and business park areas through environmentally
sustainable projects.
Strategy Action
A. Balance available land resources and future growth demands to ensure
that the city has an adequate amount of land guided for commercial,
office, and industrial uses to maintain a healthy tax base, offer adequate
high-quality employment opportunities, and provide desirable goods
and services.
• The comprehensive plan land use plan, and the associated zoning
maintains areas for high-quality employment throughout the city.
• Creative reuse of Sams Club building into new employment center for
500+ jobs
B. Encourage and support expansion, redevelopment and revitalization
that contribute to a diverse and healthy mix of desirable commercial,
office and industrial development types.
• Rezoning from C-2 to BP and O districts
C. Maintain and expand public infrastructure systems (e.g. streets, Fiber,
and utilities) that provide adequate connections and capacities to meet
the future needs of the city’s business areas.
• On-Going Implementation
• Streets and public utility maintenance and expansion are considered
during every development review, with city engineering staff taking the
lead. Fiber-readiness is included as a criteria of development
D. Undertake redevelopment planning studies to explore options and
establish plans for redevelopment and revitalization of identified
redevelopment study areas.
• Sam’s Club land use and development study (2019)
• Historic Walker Lake area plan (2019)
E. Collaborate with property owners and developers in SWLRT station
areas to intensify or redevelop business areas consistent with Transit
• Developments considered with TOD lens and using LRT station area plans:
o Corsa (Beltline Station)
o Risor (Beltline Station)
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2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Economic Development Goals and Strategies 16
Oriented Development best practices and the city’s LRT station area
plans.
o Beltline Station Development (Beltline Station)
o Nordic Ware (Beltline Station)
o PLACE (Wooddale Station)
o OlyHi (Wooddale Station)
o The Elmwood (Wooddale Station)
o Louisiana Crossing (Louisiana Station)
F. Collaborate with property owners to provide new services, amenities
and land uses that strengthen their business area or creatively reuse
underutilized business areas.
• Historic Walker Lake area plan (2019)
• Sam’s Club land use and development study (2019)
• West End artesian market
Goal 3. Retain and foster the growth of St. Louis Park’s existing high-quality businesses.
Strategy Action
A. Promote strong relationships between existing businesses, government,
and neighborhoods to promote a healthy and compatible working and
living environment.
• Business retention and expansion program
• Small business liaison
• On-going implementation
B. Support the expansion of existing high-quality businesses that have an
environmentally-sound track record, provide desirable goods and
services, and offer quality jobs (e.g. stable employment and/or attractive
wages and benefits).
• Revolving Loan Fund & Two Percent Loan Program
• Building Operations Champion’s Program
• Climate Champions Program
• On-going implementation
C. Provide public financing policies and programs that help existing
businesses with stay or expand in St. Louis Park (e.g. tax increment
financing, private activity bonds, revolving loan fund).
• Tax Increment Financing Policy update (2021)
• Revolving Loan fund
• Two Percent Loan Program
• Advance commercial assistance program
• Other small business assistance resources and programs.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
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2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Economic Development Goals and Strategies 17
D. Collaborate with agencies that provide education, skill training and job
placement to ensure that St. Louis Park provides a sound base of qualified
employees for its employers.
• Open to Business program
• Hennepin County Elevate Business program
• DEED Small Business Hub
• On-going implementation
Goal 4. Assist the startup, growth, diversification, and expansion of the city’s small businesses.
Strategy Action
A. Continue to link small businesses with resources and organizations that
provide information and financial assistance needed for the retention and
growth of small and locally-owned businesses.
• On-going implementation
• In the spring of 2020, city staff reached out to 2500 local businesses
via phone calls and emails to gauge impacts during pandemic
• Continued business outreach via phone, email, social media, website and
newsletters
• Small business liaison and business resources on the city website
B. Enhance opportunities for partnerships between public and private
entities that promote economic vitality of small businesses.
• On-going implementation
• Business Council
• Coordination with Hennepin County programs such as Elevate Business
and DEED via their Business Hub
C. Continue to assist small businesses in identifying appropriate locations
within the city.
• On-going implementation
• Small business Liaison
• Available commercial property search map on the city’s website
D. Promote small businesses with an emphasis on women, minority and
veteran owners to diversify and further strengthen the economic fabric of
the city.
• Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policy
• Two rounds of Business Relief funding during COVID. Partnered with
Hennepin County in round 2 to reach more small businesses.
E. Research, develop and implement innovative and creative programs in
which to assist entrepreneurs and small businesses to expand and/or
• On-going implementation through small business financial and technical
assistance programs.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 20
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Economic Development Goals and Strategies 18
locate in St. Louis Park (i.e., affordable rent programs, grants, loans,
incentive programs, etc.).
• Affordable commercial space initiative
• Advance commercial business assistance program?
Goal 5. Recruit new businesses that are compatible with and complementary to St. Louis Park’s existing businesses.
Strategy Action
A. Promote St. Louis Park’s strategic benefits as a prospective business
location including: its first ring location in the Twin Cities metro area,
convenient transportation access including easy highway access and the
future SWLRT line, a high-quality workforce, and numerous community
amenities.
• Discover St. Louis Park convention and visitor’s bureau “Minnesota’s
Sweet Spot” marketing and services.
• On-going implementation
• Marketing on the city’s web site and through occasional special
promotions.
• Promote the city on an on-going basis to prospective businesses, and
through real estate brokers, site selection consultants, Greater MSP, and
DEED.
B. Focus the city’s business attraction efforts on industry sectors with a
track record of environmental sensitivity and provision of quality jobs
(i.e. stable employment and attractive wages and benefits). Such
industries include: headquarters and business services, financial services
and insurance, health and life sciences; advanced manufacturing and
technology.
• Bridgewater Bank HQ, Loffler HQ, Xchange Medical Office, 10 West End
office tower and its tenants, Westside Center and its tenants, and
remodeled West End Park and Health Partners building examples.
• Green Building Policy amended in 2021
• On-going implementation
C. Encourage and support the assembly of smaller obsolete business sites
into larger sites that can accommodate the development of new
buildings to fit contemporary business needs and standards and will
attract new businesses to St. Louis Park.
• With a few rare exceptions, this goal may contradict other the city goals. A
past example where this was implemented is the Highway 7 Corporate
Center at Highway 7 and Monitor Avenue. There may be opportunities at
a smaller scale to do so in the Louisiana Avenue Station area. We would
not broadly employ this strategy and it would be somewhat discouraged,
at least at a large scale, in Historic Walker Lake for example.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 21
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Housing Goals and Strategies 19
Housing Goals and Strategies
Goal 1. The City of St. Louis Park will promote and facilitate a balanced and enduring housing stock that offers a continuum of diverse life-cycle
housing choices suitable for households of all income levels including, but not limited to affordable, senior, multi-generational, supportive and
mixed-income housing, disbursed throughout the city.
Strategy Action
A. Create a broad range of housing types to provide more diverse and
creative housing choices to meet the needs of current and future
residents.
• Zoning Audit and Residential District Audit (2022)
• Upcoming changes to the zoning code as recommended in the zoning
audit (2023)
• There have been a number of recent developments that have added
varieties of housing types
o 55+ buildings including Risor, Elmwood, OlyHi, and Beltline Station
o Affordable buildings in Beltline Station, Rise on 7, Union Park Flats,
and Arbor House
o Townhome units in Volo
o Varying building sizes in Parkway Residences
• Minnetonka Boulevard redevelopment
B. Review existing policies, programs and regulations to remove barriers to
innovative and creative housing options.
• Accessory dwelling unit (ADU) ordinance (2020)
• Upcoming changes to the zoning code (2023-2024)
C. Ensure new housing policies promote fair and equitable housing choices. • On-going implementation
D. Use data and research to guide and evaluate housing priorities, policies,
and programs.
• Current housing study by Maxfield
• Metropolitan Council goals
• Affordable housing dashboard launched in 2021
• Annual housing activity report
• Summary of proposed inclusionary housing policy changes provided in
October 2022.
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Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 22
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Housing Goals and Strategies 20
E. Use infill and redevelopment opportunities to assist in meeting housing
goals.
• Development projects dashboard launched in 2021 provides examples and
metrics.
• Zoning code amendments planned for 2023 based on 2022 zoning audit.
• On-going implementation
F. Create policies, tools and strategies to promote the goals of the city’s
climate action plan, encouraging energy efficiency and reducing energy
consumption in residential properties.
• Green building policy
• Climate champions program
• Energy efficient rebates
• Home Energy Squad
G. Create senior housing opportunities: both market rate and affordable,
homeownership and rental, and active and supportive.
• Number of senior rental opportunities including the Elmwood, Risor, and
OlyHi
Goal 2. Single Family Homes: The city is committed to creating, preserving, and improving the city’s single-family housing stock.
Strategy Action
A. Promote the creation of family-sized, owner-occupied, single-family
homes that meet the needs and desires of current and future residents
through the expansion of existing homes and through construction of new
homes.
• Move Up in the Park Loan
• Remodeling Advisor
• Architectural Design Program
• Loans
• Minnetonka Boulevard homeownership project
B. Proactively address substandard housing properties through code
enforcement and public or private redevelopment activities such as
acquisition, demolition and housing replacement.
• Property maintenance inspections, point of sale inspections, rental
licensing, construction management plan administration
• Minnetonka Boulevard homeownership project
C. Promote high-quality architectural design standards of homes through
the use of good design practices which are complementary and
compatible with the neighborhood, utilizing quality materials and
superior construction.
• Architectural design assistance program
• Remodeling assistance program
• Zoning code architectural design standards
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 23
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Housing Goals and Strategies 21
D. Allow for Accessory Housing Units (AHUs) in all low density residential
areas.
• ADUs in Religious Institutions (2017)
• Accessory Dwelling Units ordinance (2020)
E. Allow for two-family dwelling units (twin homes and duplexes) on
appropriately-sized lots in low density residential areas.
• Upcoming changes to zoning resulting from zoning audit, expected 2023
Goal 3. Multi-Family: The city is committed to promoting quality multi-family developments, both rental and owner occupied, in appropriate locations,
including near transit centers, retail and employment centers and in commercial mixed use districts.
Strategy Action
A. Promote the preservation and maintenance of existing multi-family
housing stock.
• Property maintenance codes and rental licensing standards
• Multi-family rehab loan program
B. Promote high-quality architectural design in the construction of new
multi-family developments.
• On-going implementation through development review process and
zoning architectural design standards
C. Be proactive in analyzing and guiding redevelopment opportunities for
multi-family developments.
• On-going implementation
D. Increase densities and housing options on high-frequency transit routes
and near rail stations.
• Partially implemented through rezoning to MX-1 around TOD areas
• All PUDs that have been approved in TOD areas meet the density
requirements of the comprehensive plan
• Will be further explored through updates to TOD small area plans and TOD
zoning district, expected 2023-2024
Goal 4. Residential Rental Housing: The city is committed to creating, preserving and improving the city’s rental housing stock.
Strategy Action
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 24
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Housing Goals and Strategies 22
A. Ensure rental housing is well-maintained and safe through policies and
programs for property owners including building inspections, education
and rehabilitation resources.
• Rental license ordinance
• Landlord training program
B. Promote the inclusion of family-sized units (2 and 3 bedroom) in newly
constructed multi- family developments.
• Inclusionary housing regulations require a certain percentage of units be
3-bedrooms
• Establishment of the AHTF
C. Minimize the involuntary displacement of people of color, indigenous
people and vulnerable populations, such as low-income households, the
elderly and people with disabilities from their communities as
neighborhoods grow and change.
• Tenant protection ordinance
• Naturally-occurring affordable housing (NOAH) one-for-one replacement
requirement in the inclusionary housing policy
• Land trust acquisitions
Goal 5. Home Ownership: The city is committed to promoting home ownership, including affordable homeownership options and exploring traditional
and non-traditional owner-occupied housing options such as: row houses, courtyard housing, high-rises, live-work units, three-story homes, co-
housing, Land Trust, Habitat sponsored homes, and multi-generational housing.
Strategy Action
A. Promote and facilitate a balanced and sustainable housing stock to meet
diverse needs for today and in the future.
• Inclusionary Housing policy encourages development of housing with 3–4-
bedroom units
• Green building policy
• Green remodeling program
• Affordable Housing Trust Fund creates deeper levels of affordability for
projects and so that they may remain affordable long-term
B. Continue promoting first-time home buyer, homeownership counseling,
down payment, and other assistance programs.
• Annual housing activity report detail these activities. Staff will report to
council in March 2023.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 25
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Housing Goals and Strategies 23
C. Expand homeownership opportunities and improve access to
homeownership, especially for low-income residents, people with
disabilities, and people of color.
• First-generation PPA program
• Down payment assistance
• Land trust
• Legacy program
• Minnetonka Boulevard homeownership project
D. Explore strategies and tools to prevent loss of affordable
homeownership opportunities, especially near light rail transit station
areas.
• Naturally-occurring affordable housing (NOAH) one-for-one replacement
requirement in the inclusionary housing policy
• Land trust
Goal 6. Affordable Housing: The city is committed to promoting affordable housing options for low- and moderate-income households.
Strategy Action
A. Ensure affordable housing is disbursed throughout the city and not
concentrated in any one area.
• Inclusionary Housing policy
B. Continue to support the preservation of naturally-occurring affordable
housing.
• Home Improvement Loan Programs
• Legacy program
C. Promote the inclusion of affordable housing in new developments,
including those located near the Southwest Light Rail Transit Corridor
and other transit nodes, retail and employment centers and commercial
mixed-use districts.
• Inclusionary Housing policy
• Affordable Housing Trust Fund for deeper affordability
• Support for low-income housing tax credit projects to provide for all-
affordable buildings.
• Support for the reuse of religious institution sites for affordable housing
D. Pursue policies, tools and programs to ensure long-term housing
affordability for households at or below 30, 50, 60 and 80% of AMI.
• Inclusionary Housing policy
E. Pursue innovative strategies to maximize the creation and preservation
of affordable housing:
• On-going implementation of all the programs and partnerships
recommended in the strategy:
o Inclusionary Housing policy
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 26
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Housing Goals and Strategies 24
i. Continue the implementation of the Inclusionary Housing Policy.
ii. Support shallow rent subsidy programs to promote the ability of
rental households to secure and maintain stable housing (such as
Kids in the Park).
iii. Develop additional strategies to ensure long-term housing
affordability, such as the city’s Tenant Protection Ordinance, non-
discrimination of rental subsidy, reductions in fees, incentives, and
others.
iv. Continue and strengthen partnerships with local nonprofits who
are addressing housing needs and challenges in St. Louis Park,
including St. Louis Park Emergency Program, Community Action
Program - Hennepin County, Project for Pride in Living and others.
1. Partnership support may include funding to carry out the tasks
of the Housing Authority or city to preserve housing & avoid
displacement of citizens.
v. Continue acceptance and support of transitional and supportive
housing programs for specialized groups and affordable housing
providers.
vi. Promote safe, stable and affordable housing opportunities and
strategies for homeless youth, singles, and families. Continue to
support households at risk of homelessness through programs such
as the Stable HOME program and STEP Emergency Program.
vii. Continue to engage in regional dialog and collaboration to expand
and maximize affordable housing resources and tools at the local,
regional, state and federal levels.
o Kids in the Park program
o St. Louis Park Emergency Program
o Community Action Program – Hennepin County
o Project for Pride in Living
o Tenant Protection Ordinance
o Stable HOME program
o STEP Emergency
F. 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.
• On-going implementation within our housing division of the Community
Development department
• The Housing Authority (HA) is responsible for administering programs that
ensure the availability of safe and desirable affordable housing options in
the community. The HA has received high performer status from the
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 27
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Housing Goals and Strategies 25
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Since 2020 the HA
has added 15 Family Unification Vouchers (FUP) and 25 Foster Youth to
Independence (FYI) vouchers.
Goal 7. Preservation, Safety and Sustainability: The city is committed to ensuring all housing is safe and well maintained.
Strategy Action
A. Strengthen the city’s single- and multi-family home maintenance and
rehabilitation programs.
• Property Maintenance programs include Point of Sale, Licensing and code
compliance.
• Commercial and residential properties are required to have an inspection
prior to sale. All corrections must be completed by the seller or assumed
by the buyer.
• Properties that are non-owner occupied are required to obtain a rental
license. All licensed properties are inspected approximately every 2 years.
• Approximately every 4 years the City does a sweep of all properties to
address exterior conditions for code compliance.
B. Preserve and enhance housing quality and design through code
enforcement and the promotion of housing improvement programs
related to home rehabilitation, design and housing safety.
• On-going implementation of property maintenance programs such as
Point of Sale, Licensing, and code compliance
• Home inspection visits include check of smoke detectors and trip hazards
• Home Improvement Loan Programs
C. Encourage the use of green building practices, energy-efficient products,
and sustainable methods in both single-family and multi-family housing
construction.
• Adopted a green building policy amendment to advance the city’s
environmental stewardship goals (2022)
• Administered Solar Sundown program to incentivize installation of rooftop
solar on existing properties (2021-2022)
• Energy efficient rebates (2009-present)
• Home Energy Squad program (2012-present)
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 28
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Public Art 26
• Established Climate Champions programs for homes and for multifamily
buildings to promote, incentivize and recognize energy efficiency
improvements in housing stock (2023)
D. Proactively address health hazards in housing and advance design that
supports physical and mental health.
• No specific programs aimed at these strategies, but a number of programs
have benefits that result in reducing health hazards
o Co-benefits of energy efficiency and electrification can include
improved indoor air quality
o Deferred loan program administered by Hennepin County requires
lead testing
E. Strengthen neighborhoods and neighborhood amenities to encourage
residents to stay and reinvest in St. Louis Park.
• On-going implementation through investment, maintenance, and
enhancement of public facilities, especially parks, recreation, sidewalks,
and bicycle facilities.
Public Art
*No Goals or Strategies listed
Historic Resources Goals and Strategies
Goal 1. Inventory the city’s historic assets.
Strategy Action
A. Create a plan to inventory key historic or architecturally significant
buildings and features including: churches and synagogues, schools,
residences of prominent citizens, distinctive residences by prominent
architects or builders, distinctive commercial buildings, notable parks
and public works elements and features.
• No progress
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 29
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Planning and zoning studies listed in the Implementation chapter 27
B. Conduct historical research and documentation on significant buildings
and sites as they are being modified or demolished to keep as detailed
of a historical record as possible.
• No progress
Goal 2. Utilize opportunities to educate students and other residents about the historical assets of the city.
Strategy Action
A. Educate the community on the importance of preservation, in general,
and also about the individual designated buildings and districts. Work
with the school district to develop classroom curriculum about St. Louis
Park history.
• Historic Walker Lake small area plan
• No specific city programs, but the city supports the historical society in a
number of their projects
o Donation of original house blue prints to historical society
o Historical society published a book
B. Utilize available historical photographs, maps and artifacts to focus
attention upon the city’s history and historical assets
• No progress, but the historical society maintains a website, index,
newsletter, collection of artifacts, etc.
Planning and zoning studies listed in the Implementation chapter
Planning studies
Study Status
Historic Walker Lake Revitalization Plan Complete
• Historic Walker Lake design guidelines (2019)
• Historic Walker-Lake small area revitalization plan (2019)
• MX-2 mixed-use zoning district
• MX-2 parking ordinance
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 30
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Planning and zoning studies listed in the Implementation chapter 28
Texa-Tonka Neighborhood Commercial Node Complete
• Texa-Tonka small area plan (2020)
Neighborhood commercial nodes study for new mixed-use areas Progress
• Reviewed by city staff and planning commission and some commercial
areas were rezoned to mixed use
Park Commons Plan Update (Park Commons West) No progress
Food Access Study Complete
• Food access and insecurity study summary, full report (2020)
CSAH #25: Feasibility Plan
Complete
• CSAH 25 Conceptual Road Layout (2019)
• Some elements will be implemented by METRO Green Line Extension and
Hennepin County CSAH 5 projects
Commercial areas – new small area plan(s) Progress
• Former Sam's Club site land use and development study (2020)
• Budgeted planning effort to “refresh” the three light rail station area
plans and Excelsior Boulevard west of Highway 100 in 2023
Zoning studies
Study Status
Rezoning areas to align with updated 2040 future land use map Complete
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 31
2040 Comprehensive Plan December 12, 2022
Goals and Strategies Summary
Planning and zoning studies listed in the Implementation chapter 29
• Rezoned more than 70 properties to be consistent with the future
land use map (2019)
Rezoning areas from C-2 to C-1 Complete
• Rezoned 78 parcels (2020)
• Size limits also added retail and service uses in the C-1 district (2020)
Parking reductions Complete (but reviewed periodically)
• New parking requirements adopted (2021)
• Council direction to review commercial corridor parking to further
reduce parking requirements in neighborhood commercial nodes
where public on-street parking is available nearby in 2023.
Accessory dwelling units Complete
Transitional industrial district Progress
• Amended existing industrial districts rather than create a new district
Transit-oriented development ordinance / form-based code Progress
• Code drafted but never adopted
• Evaluating further through zoning audit
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 5)
Title: 2040 comprehensive plan implementation update Page 32
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: December 12, 2022
Written report: 6
Executive summary
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project – Lenox, Oak Hill, Texa-Tonka and Eliot View (4023-
1000) – Wards 3 and 4
Recommended action: None at this time. This report is intended to provide an overview of the
proposed 2023 Pavement Management project. This project will have a public hearing on the first
council meeting in January 2023. Council will be asked to take action on this project at the second
council meeting in January 2023.
Policy consideration: Does the city council wish to pursue the pavement rehabilitation, utility
improvements and sidewalk installation recommended as a part of this project?
Summary: The annual Pavement Management project rehabilitates several miles of local
residential streets. In 2023, the streets to be rehabilitated are in Pavement Management Area 1
(Lenox, Oak Hill, Texa-Tonka and Eliot View neighborhoods). Street rehabilitation work consists
of replacing the existing bituminous pavement and replacing the concrete curb and gutter as
needed. Other work includes sidewalk repairs, sewer repairs and watermain replacement.
There are new sidewalk segments being proposed adjacent to multi-unit naturally occurring
affordable housing in this project. The funding of additional new sidewalk and traffic
management elements is being diverted to complete a citywide vulnerability assessment of the
sanitary sewer and water system to identify potential areas in the city where mitigation should
be considered, as well as area of additional capital investment.
Financial or budget considerations: This project is included in the city’s 2023 capital
improvement plan (CIP) and will be paid for using franchise fees, utility funds, and general
obligation bonds (sidewalks). A construction cost estimate is being finalized and will be
provided as a part of the Jan. 3 public hearing report.
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
Attachment #1: Project scope and sidewalk recommendation map
Attachment #2: Sidewalk segment matrix
Prepared by: Aaron Wiesen, project engineer
Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, engineering director
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 6) Page 2
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project- Lenox, Oak Hill, Texa-Tonka and Eliot View (4023-1000)
Discussion
Background
The city’s pavement management program (PMP) proactively addresses the condition of the
residential streets within the city. Many of these streets are now 50 years of age or more. The
city’s residential streets are still in relatively good condition due to the fact that the streets
were built well, are generally situated on good soils, utilize curb and gutter for drainage, and
have been well maintained. City maintenance crews have continually worked to keep
residential streets in good condition using maintenance strategies such as patching and seal
coating. However, as pavements age, more aggressive maintenance strategies are needed to
prolong their life.
The PMP was developed in 2003 to extend pavement life and enhance system-wide
performance in a cost-effective and efficient way by providing the right pavement strategy at
the right time. Using pavement management software, staff documents street condition ratings
and monitors their performance. Staff then evaluates the condition of streets and selects cost-
effective treatments to extend pavement life.
Project description
This year’s project will be performed in Area 1 of the city’s eight pavement management areas.
It includes work in the Lenox, Oak Hill, Texa-Tonka and Eliot View neighborhoods. The attached
maps identify the streets that have been selected for rehabilitation and outline the various
work to be performed on each street. The selection was based on street condition and field
evaluations to determine the condition of the pavement, curb and gutter, and the city’s
underground utilities. A team of staff members from streets, utilities, and engineering worked
together to select streets and to recommend appropriate rehabilitation techniques for inclusion
in this year’s Pavement Management Project.
Many of the street segments are proposed to include additional infrastructure upgrades such as
watermain replacement, sanitary sewer repairs, storm sewer construction, and sidewalk
installation.
The funding of additional new sidewalk and traffic management elements is being diverted to
complete a citywide vulnerability assessment of the sanitary sewer and water system to
identify potential areas in the city where mitigation should be considered, as well as area of
additional capital investment.
Watermain and water service replacement
The watermain on these streets is approximately 60-75 years old and experiencing
deterioration. The work will consist of replacing the watermain and the water services to the
curb stop. The watermain is approximately 7.5 feet deep and located under or near one of the
curb lines, running parallel to the street. The watermain will be replaced by using a “trenchless”
method. This method pulls an expansion head attached to a new pipe through the old pipe, the
head expands and pushes away the existing cast iron pipe while simultaneously replacing it
with new HDPE plastic pipe. The street remains passable during installation, resulting in less
impact than open trench watermain replacement, minimizing disruption to the neighborhood.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 6) Page 3
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project- Lenox, Oak Hill, Texa-Tonka and Eliot View (4023-1000)
The water services connect to the watermain, run to the curb stop and then to the house. The
curb stop is located between the curb and gutter and the right of way line. The city owns the
water service between the watermain and the curb stop, while the property owner owns the
water service between the curb stop and the house.
As a part of this project, the water service is proposed to be replaced between the watermain
and the city-owned curb stop. The water service is also approximately 7.5 feet deep and must
be open-cut to replace. Replacing water services has significant impacts on existing trees,
landscaping, sidewalks, driveways, retaining walls, etc.
Street widths
Since the watermain is replaced by the trenchless method, the entire length of curb on both
sides of the street is not necessary to be removed for watermain construction. Since the curb is
not being removed for watermain work, there is not an opportunity to consider changes to
existing street widths as a part of the project.
Parking restrictions
The Dakota-Edgewood bridge and trail construction in 2021 created a critical pedestrian and
bicycle connection over the BNSF railroad. As a part of this project, a multi-use trail was built on
the east side of Edgewood Avenue, between Eliot View Road and the BNSF railroad. To
accommodate this trail within existing right of way, the road width was reduced by 10.5 feet.
This project started in the fall of 2020 and was not completed until 2021, with punch list work
in 2022. Where the road width was reduced, no parking signs were temporarily installed along
the west side of the road. This was to provide adequate space for commercial vehicle travel,
contractor vehicles, material storage, and turn movements into and out of adjacent properties.
Initially, these were installed as temporary signs; however, the temporary signs did not hold up.
Due to this, permanent signs were installed to minimize maintenance and promote
compliance.
As a part of this year’s PMP project, a mill and overlay is proposed on Edgewood Avenue from
Cedar Lake Road to the BNSF railroad. Staff has reviewed the turn movements into and out of
adjacent properties and recommends leaving the permanent signs in place, resulting in
formalizing these parking restrictions along the west side of Edgewood Avenue from Eliot View
Road to the BNSF railroad. This will be brought for council approval as part of the final project
approval.
Traffic management
There was not a traffic management pilot project completed as a part of the project design.
However, staff still responded to traffic questions that were brought forward as a part of the
public process. Residents requested that staff review eight intersections for the possible
installation of stop signs. These stop sign requests were evaluated both at the intersection level
and within the neighborhood context. None of the requested locations met the criteria for stop
sign installation. As a result, there are no changes being brought to the council as a part of this
project.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 6) Page 4
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project- Lenox, Oak Hill, Texa-Tonka and Eliot View (4023-1000)
Street trees
A tree inventory has been completed on streets with watermain and sidewalk construction.
This inventory reviewed the size, species, health, and condition of all the trees. As a part of the
design, staff will work to preserve existing boulevard trees to the maximum extent possible.
There are nine trees (110 caliper inches) that are being recommended for removal because of
sidewalk construction. Tree replacement will be completed based on the city’s tree ordinance.
Street trees will be planted in the neighborhood the year following construction.
Sidewalks
There are new sidewalk segments being proposed adjacent to naturally occurring affordable
multi-family housing (NOAH) in this project. These are located on Rhode Island Avenue and Oak
Park Village Drive.
In all, 0.51 miles of sidewalk were identified to be considered as a part of this project. Staff is
recommending that 0.38 miles of sidewalk be approved for construction as part of the 2023
Pavement Management project.
The sidewalk segments were broken down block by block and evaluated individually for
impacts, costs, and returns. On both Rhode Island Avenue and Oak Park Village Drive, both
sides of the street were evaluated. Individual evaluation sheets for each of the segments are
included in this report. Staff has not received any comments pertaining to the proposed
sidewalk segments so far.
These segments, if approved, would be constructed at no cost to the property owners, and the
city would be responsible for future repairs to defective sidewalk panels. Since they provide
missing sidewalk connections to NOAH properties, they will be designated as community
sidewalks, and the city primarily responsible for snow removal.
The council has shared the importance of understanding the cost-effectiveness and return on
investment (ROI) that the recommended sidewalk network provides. To do this, staff evaluated
the sidewalk segments block by block for impacts, costs, and returns. For each block, the
impacts of sidewalk construction on both sides of the street were evaluated to create the
system recommended. Staff recommendation is based on the side of the street with the lower
impact and cost. Consistent with past council direction, special attention was given to
preserving street trees and connectivity when all other impacts were similar.
The impacts and cost to build these sidewalks are typical. The expanded sidewalk network
removes barriers to walking by filling in gaps, creates connections to destinations in the
neighborhood and beyond, and is consistent with the vision for the community. For these
reasons, the recommended sidewalks will create a positive return on investment for the
neighborhood and the community.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 6) Page 5
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project- Lenox, Oak Hill, Texa-Tonka and Eliot View (4023-1000)
Number Description Maintenance
responsibility
Build in
2023?
1 Oak Park Village Drive - north side
(Oak Park Village Drive to Louisiana Avenue)
Community sidewalk
(City) Yes
2 Oak Park Village Drive - south side
(Oak Park Village Drive to parking lot entrance)
Community sidewalk
(City) Yes
3 Oak Park Village Drive - south side
(Parking lot entrance to Louisiana Avenue)
Community sidewalk
(City) No
4 Rhode Island Avenue - south side
(28th Street to dead end)
Community sidewalk
(City) Yes
5 Rhode Island Avenue - north side
(28th Street to Victoria Circle)
Community sidewalk
(City) No
6 Rhode Island Avenue - north side
(Victoria Circle to dead end)
Community sidewalk
(City) Yes
Public process
There have been several opportunities for residents to learn more about the proposed project
and to provide feedback on the proposed project. Notifications were done through letters,
postcards, neighborhood associations, NextDoor, GovDelivery, and the city website. What
follows is a summary:
1. Letter – Preliminary survey (June 2021)
o Staff sent a letter to the neighborhood notifying them that the data collection/
preliminary survey was to begin in preparation for the Pavement Management
project. This was the first letter to the neighborhood on this project.
2. Kickoff Postcard – interactive map (July 2022)
o A postcard was sent out to invite the neighborhood to provide feedback using an
interactive GIS map, contacting city staff, or visiting the project website.
o The interactive map had 27 comments that included stop sign requests,
drainage, and existing sidewalk condition concerns.
3. Open house (Nov. 2022)
o The open house letter sent to the neighborhood included a summary of the
feedback received.
o The purpose of the open house was to provide attendees with an opportunity to
review the preliminary design for streets and sidewalks. Layouts were prepared
that showed impacts to trees, landscaping, retaining walls, etc. Residents were
able to look at layouts, ask questions, write notes on the plans, and provide
feedback on this preliminary design. Where possible, staff incorporated these
comments into the final design. Feedback from this meeting ultimately helps
guide staff on the final designs.
o There were approximately 12 residents at this open house out of 2084
properties mailed.
o
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 6) Page 6
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project- Lenox, Oak Hill, Texa-Tonka and Eliot View (4023-1000)
4. City council study session report (Dec. 12, 2022)
o This study session report provides an overview of the project and staff
recommendations.
5. Public hearing city council meeting (Jan. 3, 2023)
o The public hearing will provide an opportunity for residents to speak to the
council regarding the project.
6. Project approval city council meeting (Jan. 17, 2023)
o The council will be asked to approve the project as recommended or approve a
modified project based on resident feedback.
If residents were unable to attend the meeting or if they had specific concerns, staff met with
them on-site. Staff made modifications to the design using the information gathered from the
open house, individual visits, phone calls, and emails. Where impacts could not be avoided,
staff proposed mitigation.
Engineering staff worked closely with parks and recreation staff to ensure the network of
sidewalks being built would meet the objectives for tree preservation/replanting. The public
works staff also weighed in on the new sidewalk segments to ensure that there were
acceptable widths and design features for snow removal.
Next steps
The proposed schedule for the segments recommended by staff to facilitate construction in
2023 is as follows:
Council study session Dec. 12, 2022
Council public hearing Jan. 3, 2023
Council project approval Jan. 17, 2023
Council awards construction bids Early April 2023
Construction May to Nov. 2023
W
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ANAAVES29TH ST W
TEXAS AVE SLAKE ST
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RHODE ISLAND AVE S34TH ST W COLORADOAVES34 1/2 ST W GORHAM AVE
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OaksOaks
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Feet
2023 Pavement Management - Staff Recommendations
Street rehabilitation
Watermain replacement and street rehabilitation
Existing sidewalks
Existing trails
Sidewalk recommended
Sidewalk not recommended
Date: 12/2/2022
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 6)
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project – Lenox, Oak Hill, Texa-Tonka and Eliot View (4023-1000)Page 7
Attachment #2: Sidewalk segment matrix
Segment #1
Oak Park Village Drive - north side
(Oak Park Village Drive to Louisiana Avenue) Data:
Traffic volumes NA
Average speed NA
Design:
Right of way (ROW width) 50 feet
Distance from back of curb to ROW 10-14 feet
Proposed boulevard width 0 to 6 feet
Proposed concrete sidewalk width 6 feet
Proposed sidewalk length 691 feet (100%)
Existing sidewalk length 0 feet (0%)
Snow removal responsibility Community sidewalk (City)
Impacts:
Trees in boulevard 6 trees
Trees removed 4 trees (30 total caliper inches)
Properties adjacent to proposed sidewalk 1 city property
Driveway impacts (slope, length, etc.) None
Landscaping None
Retaining walls Approx. 90 feet of new retaining wall required
Private utility relocations None
Financial:
Construction cost $105,000
Cost per liner foot of new sidewalk $152 / LF
Staff recommendations:
Build in 2023? Yes
Recommendation based on Provides a sidewalk connection from Louisiana
Avenue to the trails that go through Louisiana
Oaks Park.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 6)
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project – Lenox, Oak Hill, Texa-Tonka and Eliot View (4023-1000)Page 8
Segment #2
Oak Park Village Drive - south side
(Trail to parking lot entrance) Data:
Traffic volumes NA
Average speed NA
Design:
Right of way (ROW width) 50 feet
Distance from back of curb to ROW 9 feet
Proposed boulevard width 2 to 6 feet
Proposed concrete sidewalk width 6 feet
Proposed sidewalk length 177 feet (100%)
Existing sidewalk length 0 feet (0%)
Snow removal responsibility Community sidewalk (City)
Impacts:
Trees in boulevard 1 tree
Trees removed 1 tree (20 total caliper inches)
Properties adjacent to proposed sidewalk 1 city property, 1 apartment property
Driveway impacts (slope, length, etc.) None
Landscaping None
Retaining walls None
Private utility relocations None
Financial:
Construction cost $22,000
Cost per liner foot of new sidewalk $125 / LF
Staff recommendations:
Build in 2023? Yes
Recommendation based on Provides a sidewalk connection from the
apartments on Oak Park Village Drive to the
trails that go through Louisiana Oaks Park.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 6)
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project – Lenox, Oak Hill, Texa-Tonka and Eliot View (4023-1000)Page 9
Segment #3
Oak Park Village Drive - south side
(Parking lot entrance to Louisiana Avenue) Data:
Traffic volumes NA
Average speed NA
Design:
Right of way (ROW width) 50 feet
Distance from back of curb to ROW 0 to 9 feet
Proposed boulevard width 0 to 2 feet
Proposed concrete sidewalk width 6 feet
Proposed sidewalk length 355 feet (100%)
Existing sidewalk length 0 feet (0%)
Snow removal responsibility Community sidewalk (City)
Impacts:
Trees in boulevard None
Trees removed None
Properties adjacent to proposed sidewalk 1 city property, 1 apartment property
Driveway impacts (slope, length, etc.) None
Landscaping None
Retaining walls None
Private utility relocations 1 light pole
Financial:
Construction cost $52,000
Cost per liner foot of new sidewalk $147 / LF
Staff recommendations:
Build in 2023? No
Recommendation based on Not enough right of way to build sidewalk.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 6)
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project – Lenox, Oak Hill, Texa-Tonka and Eliot View (4023-1000)Page 10
Segment #4
Rhode Island Avenue - south side
(28th Street to dead end) Data:
Traffic volumes NA
Average speed NA
Design:
Right of way (ROW width) 60 feet
Distance from back of curb to ROW 11 to 12 feet
Proposed boulevard width 4 feet
Proposed concrete sidewalk width 6 feet
Proposed sidewalk length 652 feet (100%)
Existing sidewalk length 0 feet (0%)
Snow removal responsibility Community sidewalk (City)
Impacts:
Trees in boulevard 2 trees
Trees removed 2 trees (36 total caliper inches)
Properties adjacent to proposed sidewalk 1 apartment property, 1 city park
Driveway impacts (slope, length, etc.) None
Landscaping Minor impacts to landscaping near outwalks of
apartment building
Retaining walls None
Private utility relocations None
Financial:
Construction cost $78,000
Cost per liner foot of new sidewalk $120 / LF
Staff recommendations:
Build in 2023? Yes
Recommendation based on Provides a sidewalk connection from the
apartments on Rhode Island Avenue to a park,
regional trail and the existing sidewalks on
28th Street.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 6)
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project – Lenox, Oak Hill, Texa-Tonka and Eliot View (4023-1000)Page 11
Segment #5
Rhode Island Avenue - North side
(28th Street to Victoria Circle) Data:
Traffic volumes NA
Average speed NA
Design:
Right of way (ROW width) 60 feet
Distance from back of curb to ROW 11 to 12 feet
Proposed boulevard width 4 feet
Proposed concrete sidewalk width 6 feet
Proposed sidewalk length 350 feet (100%)
Existing sidewalk length 0 feet (0%)
Snow removal responsibility Community sidewalk (City)
Impacts:
Trees in boulevard 4 trees
Trees removed 4 trees (52 total caliper inches)
Properties adjacent to proposed sidewalk 1 property
Driveway impacts (slope, length, etc.) None
Landscaping Yes, there is landscaping in between the street
and parking lot that would be removed for a
sidewalk.
Retaining walls None
Private utility relocations None
Financial:
Construction cost $42,000
Cost per liner foot of new sidewalk $120 / LF
Staff recommendations:
Build in 2023? No
Recommendation based on Would have impacts to trees and landscaping.
A sidewalk on the other side of the street
would have a better connection to the park
and apartment buildings.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 6)
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project – Lenox, Oak Hill, Texa-Tonka and Eliot View (4023-1000)Page 12
Segment #6
Rhode Island Avenue - North side
(Victoria Circle to dead end) Data:
Traffic volumes NA
Average speed NA
Design:
Right of way (ROW width) 60 feet
Distance from back of curb to ROW 11 to 12 feet
Proposed boulevard width 4 feet
Proposed concrete sidewalk width 6 feet
Proposed sidewalk length 472 feet (100%)
Existing sidewalk length 0 feet (0%)
Snow removal responsibility Community sidewalk (City)
Impacts:
Trees in boulevard 2 trees
Trees removed 2 trees (24 total caliper inches)
Properties adjacent to proposed sidewalk 1 apartment property
Driveway impacts (slope, length, etc.) None
Landscaping Landscaping near outwalks and parking lot
that would be impacted
Retaining walls None
Private utility relocations There is 1 electrical pedestal that would be
relocated
Financial:
Construction cost $54,000
Cost per liner foot of new sidewalk $115 / LF
Staff recommendations:
Build in 2023? Yes
Recommendation based on Provides a sidewalk connection from the
apartments on Rhode Island Avenue to a park,
regional trail and the existing sidewalks on
28th Street.
Study session meeting of December 12, 2022 (Item No. 6)
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project – Lenox, Oak Hill, Texa-Tonka and Eliot View (4023-1000)Page 13
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: December 12, 2022
Written report: 7
Executive summary
Title: MnDOT excess land update – Toledo Avenue and 28th Avenue – ward 1
Recommended action: None. This is a status report to city council.
Policy consideration: Does city council want staff to pursue acquisition of the land that
Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) has deemed to be excess right-of-way?
Summary: MnDOT officially offered to convey to the city two parcels of land they deem to be
excess right-of-way along Highway 100 in the 2800 block of Toledo Avenue South. We received
these offers in response to the letter of interest we sent to MnDOT in February 2022. We have
until May 22, 2023, to accept the offers and purchase the parcel(s). The city council previously
received staff reports regarding this matter on November 22, 2021, and February 7, 2022.
The south parcel is 0.88 acres and includes the remnants of a retaining wall and rock
landscaping of a former wayside rest operated on the site (Conveyance 2021-0067 on the
attached map). The north parcel is 0.81 acres (Conveyance 2021-0066 on the attached map).
In essence, MnDOT is offering to give the city the south parcel provided the city only uses it for
public park purposes. MnDOT is offering to sell the north parcel to the city for fair market value
and without restrictions on the use. There are other standard conveyance conditions that
MnDOT attached to the offers.
City staff will undertake reasonable due diligence to review the information MnDOT provided,
including a phase I environmental report. Staff will discuss using the south parcel as public park
land (passive or active use, including simply open space), and will also evaluate the north
parcel. Staff will bring this item to city council for discussion and direction in early 2023 and
potentially in a closed session, with adequate time to discuss and take any formal action
needed to respond to the offers before MnDOT’s deadline of May 22, 2023.
Financial or budget considerations: To be determined. The immediate cost includes staff time
and legal fees related to the due diligence efforts, purchase price, and ongoing costs to
maintain the parcel(s). This excludes any future use or improvements to the parcels.
Strategic priority consideration:
•St. Louis Park is committed to continue to lead in environmental stewardship.
•St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of housing and neighborhood
oriented development.
Supporting documents: Location map; links to the February 7, 2022 consent agenda report;
November 22, 2021, study session report and minutes.
Prepared by: Sean Walther, planning manager/deputy CD director
Reviewed by: Karen Barton, community development director
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager