Environmental Management Commission
Regular MeetingOakdale, MN · January 9, 2023
Minutes
REGULAR MEETING
OAKDALE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION
JANUARY 9, 2023
CALL TO ORDER
The Oakdale Environmental Management Commission (EMC) held a meeting on Monday,
January 9, 2023 at Oakdale City Hall, 1584 Hadley Avenue North, Oakdale, Minnesota. The
meeting began at 7:00 PM with the Pledge of Allegiance.
CALL OF ROLL
On a call of roll, the following were present:
Chairperson: Keith Miller, Chairperson
Commissioners: Noah Gerding, Vice Chairperson
Bonnie Wilson
Also Present: Kevin Zabel, City Council Liaison
Shannon Reidlinger, Sr. Community Development Specialist and City
Staff Liaison
Absent: Connor Brown
Quorum Present: YES ☒ NO ☐
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER GERDING, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER
WILSON, TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF NOVEMBER 21, 2022 AS
WRITTEN.
3 AYES
0 NAYS
MOTION CARRIED
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION REVIEW
a. OLD BUSINESS
i. 2023 Adopt-A-Drain schedule
Chair Miller shared that the EMC has adopted three storm drains near Walton Park and has
been clearing them of waste and organic buildup. He reminded the EMC that the cleaning
schedule does not include the months of January and February.
Environmental Management Commission Minutes
January 9, 2023
Page Two
In response to Commissioner Gerding’s question regarding whether any data needs to be
tracked by the Commissioners as they’re cleaning the storm drains (like sediment type and
pounds of waste collected), Ms. Reidlinger agreed that any information captured would be
helpful for both the Adopt-A-Drain program and for the City’s communication efforts
regarding the initiative.
ii. Review of initial community engagement results for the Bike and Pedestrian Plan
update project
Ms. Reidlinger gave a summary of community engagement efforts conducted to date as part
of the Bike and Pedestrian Plan Update project. She shared that a majority of community
engagement work has been completed and a draft report was presented to Oakdale City
Council at the December 13, 2022 City Council workshop. She noted that the community
engagement report will help the project consultant, Toole Design Group, craft
recommendations (such as goals and strategies, and a network map) for prioritized bicycle
and pedestrian projects. She explained that interactions during the community engagement
phase of the project number in the hundreds, and shared that the project team is looking to
increase that number of interactions in the coming weeks by continuing to promote the
project’s WikiMap. She summarized key initial findings from the draft community
engagement report, including:
More respondents who filled out the project questionnaire are walking than bicycling,
and they walk and bicycle mostly for exercise/health/enjoyment
A lack of facilities (i.e. linear, crossing) is the largest deterrent preventing
questionnaire respondents from walking or bicycling more
Questionnaire respondents would prefer separation from traffic, both for walking and
for bicycling
Ms. Reidlinger informed the EMC of the draft goals and strategies identified as a result of
community engagement work, and noted that the draft goals and strategies were presented
during the December 13, 2022 City Council workshop for consideration and feedback. She
highlighted project next steps, including finalizing the draft community engagement report by
reviewing and synthesizing WikiMap and paper map comments, and identifying and
prioritizing potential bicycle and pedestrian system projects. She suggested that a draft of
the final deliverable may be shared with the EMC for review.
In response to Chair Miller’s question regarding whether neighboring cities have been
involved in the project, Ms. Reidlinger confirmed that analysis of local and regional Bicycle
and Pedestrian System Plans was conducted during the first phase of the project, but that
the project team is not speaking directly to communities bordering Oakdale.
Chair Miller commented that the draft community engagement support indicated an interest
by the community in separating bicycle and pedestrian paths from the road.
Environmental Management Commission Minutes
January 9, 2023
Page Three
In response to Chair Miller’s question regarding whether current paths and trails in Oakdale
could handle an influx of bicyclists if they were encourage to move off the road, Ms.
Reidlinger affirmed the assumption that the consultant would provide the City with a variety
of options to respond to the community’s desire for path and trail separation. In response to
Commissioner Wilson’s question regarding whether the paths in the Nature Center will be
included in the network recommendations, Ms. Reidlinger explained that Toole Design
Group would incorporate the Nature Center trails into the network recommendation if
community engagement revealed a need specific to those paths.
In response to Chair Miller’s question regarding whether project analysis would consider
how the Gold Line might impact the community’s use and perception of the bicycle and
pedestrian system in Oakdale, Ms. Reidlinger agreed that the city’s existing transit options
should be incorporated into the project’s network recommendations alongside community
feedback (recognizing that individuals who use the bicycle and pedestrian trails for more
than just exercise or enjoyment might not be represented in the project’s outreach efforts).
She reminded the EMC that a current network analysis was conducted in the initial phase of
the project to determine where bus stops and crosswalks already exist in the city. Chair
Miller emphasized that having bicycling and walking infrastructure in place when the Gold
Line is built might further encourage use of rapid transit.
Commissioner Gerding expressed satisfaction in the holistic approach to the number of
interactions recorded during community engagement. In response to Commissioner
Gerding’s question regarding whether ideas and comments from the business community
had been captured during the engagement portion of the project, Ms. Reidlinger responded
that that the business community was not targeted for feedback in the same way as the
residential population. She explained that the City’s Community Development Department
had spoken with several local businesses about the Bike and Pedestrian Plan Update
project as part of the Business Retention, Expansion, and Attraction program, so anecdotal
commentary from the business community on bicycling and walking in Oakdale exists.
b. NEW BUSINESS
i. Election of Commission Chair and Vice Chair
Chair Miller reminded the EMC that the annual election of the Commission’s Chair and Vice
Chair is mandated per Chapter Six of the Oakdale Code of Ordinances. He opened the floor
for nominations for Chair of the EMC and explained that nominations for Chair do not require
a second.
A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER WILSON TO NOMINATE KEITH MILLER AS CHAIR
OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION.
Environmental Management Commission Minutes
January 9, 2023
Page Four
Chair Miller called for any additional nominations and then invited a motion to close
nominations for the position of Chair.
A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER GERDING TO CLOSE NOMINATIONS FOR THE
POSITION OF CHAIR.
A MOTION WAS MADE BY CHAIR MILLER TO REELECT THE CURRENT CHAIR AS CHAIR OF THE
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION.
2 AYES
0 NAYS
MOTION CARRIED
Chair Miller opened the floor for nominations for Vice Chair of the EMC and explained that
nominations for Vice Chair do not require a second.
A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER WILSON, SECONDED BY CHAIR MILLER, TO
NOMINATE NOAH GERDING AS VICE CHAIR OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
COMMISSION.
A MOTION WAS MADE BY CHAIR MILLER TO CLOSE NOMINATIONS FOR THE POSITION OF VICE
CHAIR.
A MOTION WAS MADE BY CHAIR MILLER, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER WILSON, TO ELECT
COMMISSIONER GERDING FOR THE POSITION OF VICE CHAIR OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT COMMISSION FOR 2023.
2 AYES
0 NAYS
MOTION CARRIED
ii. Review of draft 2023 environmental communications strategy
Chair Miller opened discussion of the draft 2023 environmental communications strategy.
Ms. Reidlinger explained that the overall strategy for environmental communications remains
the same as in previous years, but that specific content for the 2023 editorial calendar should
be reviewed and edited by the EMC. She noted that that the draft editorial calendar includes
proposed content and messaging, and encouraged the EMC to identify themes within the draft
calendar that are repetitive; messages that are missing entirely from the draft calendar;
whether the draft calendar reflects the goals and priorities of the 2023 EMC Work Plan;
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January 9, 2023
Page Five
how EMC Commissioners can be more engaged in communication activities throughout the
year; and what communication outlets should be leveraged to spread messaging and
awareness of the monthly themes.
In response to Commissioner Wilson’s question regarding where any pictures taken by the
EMC should be sent, Ms. Reidlinger instructed that all pictures be sent to her.
Commissioner Gerding and Chair Miller expressed enthusiasm for incorporating
Commissioner and staff engagement into the communications strategy. Chair Miller noted
that the focus of the editorial calendar in January is energy efficiency, and he commented that
because energy costs and utilities bills have gone up, stressing energy reduction strategies is
important. He extoled the value in conducting a home energy audit. Ms. Reidlinger suggested
that sharing stories of how Commissioners engage with resources like a home energy audit
on the City’s website is one way to push environmental messaging without relying solely on
social media.
Chair Miller recommended that the theme for October be changed from renewable energy to
energy efficiency so that individuals can take action before winter temperatures set in. He
also advocated for having a representative from the Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed
District present at the EMC meeting during the month of August to promote water conservation
programs.
Commissioner Gerding proposed that the theme for March focus more heavily on water
conservation instead of recycling, especially as spring temperatures prompt snow and ice
thaw and individuals think about cleaning out and watering their garden beds. Chair Miller
agreed and suggested that Commissioner Gerding share his experience with applying for the
Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District Stewardship Grant to help fund water quality
improvement projects at his home.
Chair Miller reminded the EMC that the editorial calendar can be changed throughout the year
as necessary so that relevant resources and messages are reaching individuals in Oakdale.
He supported the idea of hosting an environmental fair at the Discovery Center in June,
especially because the fair could be conducted in conjunction with the kickoff for the 2023
Grow Solar Twin Cities solar group buy program. He observed that it would be good to talk with
Oakdale residents and business owners in person at events like the environmental fair, rather
than exclusively over a virtual platform like Zoom.
Commissioner Gerding recommended that a plug for Washington County’s food scraps drop-
off program, and for composting in general, be made in December to promote low waste
activities over the holiday season.
c. OTHER ITEMS
Environmental Management Commission Minutes
January 9, 2023
Page Six
a. Commissioner update(s)
Commissioner Wilson shared that Oakdale Wellness 50+ is starting a new series in February
called ‘Reducing Your Waste Stream’, a three-part series on reducing household waste
streams. The first part of the series is a presentation at the Oakdale Discovery Center on
February 16, 2023, from 6-7:30; a representative from Washington County will present about
recycling, composting food scraps, and other ways to reduce waste. The second part of the
series is a guided tour of the Washington County Environmental Center on February 28, 2023.
The third part of the series is a guided tour of the Recycling & Energy Center on March 2,
2023. Commissioner Wilson noted that information about the series can be found on the City
of Oakdale’s website, and encouraged interested individuals to make a reservation for one or
both tours.
Commissioner Gerding encouraged residents and business owners to help clear snow and ice
away from storm drains, if possible. He also shared that he is continuing to work with the
Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District on water quality improvement projects at his
home, made possible with funds from the Stewardship Grant.
Chair Miller noted that there will be a conference for area environmental commissions in April
2023. He committed to emailing the information about the conference to the other
Commissioners.
b. Council liaison update(s)
Oakdale Mayor Zabel shared that the property tax levy was adopted, and the City’s budget
finalized, at the end of 2022. He thanked City staff for preparing all the materials necessary
to help City Council make informed decisions about the property tax levy and the City budget.
Mayor Zabel mentioned that the first City Council meeting of the year is on January 10, 2023.
He explained that he would be sworn into office during the meeting, in addition to reelected
Council Member Susan Olsen and incoming Council Member Andy Morcomb. He shared that
the City Council would also consider a few development items presented for consideration by
the Oakdale Planning Commission during the January 10 meeting.
NEXT MEETING DATE
Chair Miller reminded the Commission that the next meeting of the EMC will be Monday,
February 13, 2023 in the City Council Chambers.
ADJOURNMENT
Environmental Management Commission Minutes
January 9, 2023
Page Six
A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER WILSON, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER
GERDING, TO ADJOURN THE JANUARY 9, 2023 REGULAR MEETING OF THE OAKDALE
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION AT 7:48 P.M.
3 AYES
0 NAYS
MOTION CARRIED
Meeting Adjourned
Respectfully submitted,
Shannon Reidlinger
Sr. Community Development Specialist
Agenda
AGENDA
Environmental Management Commission
REGULAR MEETING
January 9, 2023
7:00 PM
Oakdale City Council Chambers
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL
4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
a. November 21, 2022
5. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION REVIEW
a. OLD BUSINESS
i. 2023 Adopt-A-Drain schedule
ii. Review of initial community engagement results for the Bike and Pedestrian Plan
update project
b. NEW BUSINESS
i. Election of Commission Chair and Vice Chair
ii. Review of draft 2023 environmental communications strategy
6. OTHER
i. Commissioner update(s)*
ii. Council liaison update(s)*
7. ADJOURNMENT
*Items marked with an asterisk have no accompanying materials
The next regular Environmental Management Commission meeting will be held
February 13, 2023 @ 7PM in the Council Chambers at Oakdale City Hall.
REGULAR MEETING
OAKDALE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION
NOVEMBER 21, 2022
CALL TO ORDER
The Oakdale Environmental Management Commission (EMC) held a meeting on Monday,
November 21, 2022 at Oakdale City Hall, 1584 Hadley Avenue North, Oakdale, Minnesota.
The meeting began at 7:00 PM with the Pledge of Allegiance.
CALL OF ROLL
On a call of roll, the following were present:
Chairperson: Keith Miller, Chairperson
Commissioners: Noah Gerding, Vice Chairperson
Bonnie Wilson
Connor Brown
Also Present: Kevin Zabel, City Council Liaison
Shannon Reidlinger, Sr. Community Development Specialist and City
Staff Liaison
Quorum Present: YES ☒ NO ☐
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER WILSON, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER BROWN,
TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF OCTOBER 17, 2022 AS WRITTEN.
3 AYES
0 NAYS
MOTION CARRIED
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION REVIEW
a. OLD BUSINESS
i. Draft 2023 EMC Work Plan approval
Chair Miller opened conversation about the draft 2023 EMC Work Plan with the stated goal
of finalizing the document before it is presented to City Council in early 2023 for consideration.
Ms. Reidlinger summarized changes made to the draft 2023 EMC Work Plan since the October
17, 2022 regular meeting of the EMC, including:
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November 21, 2022
Page Two
• Providing more detail on the educational components of the draft plan (as
‘education’ is a prevailing theme of the draft plan)
• Incorporating action items which highlight practical application of energy efficient
best practices
• Incorporating action items to promote water conservation programs
She also encouraged the Commission to consider items missing from the draft plan, items
needing to be removed, and themes that should be prioritized.
Chair Miller began discussion of the draft 2023 EMC Work Plan by reminding the Commission
that the draft plan focuses on three main priorities: waste, energy efficiency, and water quality.
He then opened the floor for comments on the first section of the draft plan (i.e. ‘Electric
Vehicle Priorities’). Chair Miller expressed support for coordinating a ride-and-drive event for
electric vehicles (EVs) as a way to educate the community about purchasing opportunities. In
addition, he suggested creating a guide to summarize the incentives available with the
passage of the federal Inflation Reduction Act, and posting the guide on the City website or
giving it away as a flyer at events.
Next, Chair Miller opened the floor for comments on the second section of the draft plan (i.e.
‘Other Applicable 2040 Comprehensive Plan Priorities’). In response to Commissioner
Wilson’s question regarding whether the Commission should determine specific methods for
communicating about energy efficiency best practices, Ms. Reidlinger explained that the EMC
would have the opportunity to refine messaging of the Commission’s work plan priorities while
reviewing the draft 2023 EMC editorial calendar at its first regular meeting in 2023.
Chair Miller noted that there used to be an Energy Efficiency Fair at Skyview Middle School,
but that the fair hadn’t been held for a few years; he wondered whether it would be possible
to host an Energy Fair at the Oakdale Discovery Center in 2023. He explained that an Energy
Fair could be a way to promote energy efficiency programs and connect residents directly to
resource providers like Xcel Energy and the Citizens Utility Board. Commissioner Wilson
recommended expanding the concept into a more generalized Environmental Fair and inviting
the Oakdale Tree Board in order to promote sustainable programs and resources more
broadly. She also suggested that the fair could be a way to provide education about water
conservation, including grant funding for water quality improvemet projects. Commissioner
Gerding expressed enthusiasm for a more inclusive Environmental Fair that provides
education on a number of themes prioritized in the draft 2023 EMC Work Plan. In response
to Commissioner Gerding’s question regarding whether other local organizations might be
willing to share their experience with energy efficient solutions, Ms. Reidlinger emphasized
that businesses like HOM Furniture, the Animal Emergency Referral Center, and others may
have stories to share about installing rooftop solar panel systems and participating in
Washington County’s BizRecycling program. Chair Miller emphasized the importance of
continuing to promote the Grow Solar Twin Cities solar group buy program through the 2023
EMC editorial calendar.
Environmental Management Commission Draft Minutes
November 21, 2022
Page Three
Commissioner Gerding explained that he is working with the Ramsey-Washington Metro
Watershed District to implement water conservation projects at his home, and recommended
that the Commission provide education about lawn alternatives to the community.
Commissioner Wilson noted that similar programs like No Mow May could be promoted as
well. Chair Miller recollected that all three watershed districts with territory in Oakdale have
presented to the EMC in the past, and suggested that representatives from the districts either
present to the Commission again in 2023 or participate in the proposed Environmental Fair
to share information about grant funding available for water quality projects. In response to
Commissioner Gerding’s question regarding whether community designation programs exist
for water conservation and water quality improvement, Ms. Reidlinger agreed to research
program availability. Commissioner Gerding speculated that a designation program might help
the City determine the baseline quality of its water bodies; in reply, Ms. Reidlinger explained
that the GreenSteps Cities program might offer insight into the type of data that should be
collected to determine a water quality baseline measurement. Chair Miller suggested that
baseline water quality data may be collected by the watershed districts in Oakdale already,
and recalled reading a past report about local water body quality ratings based on water
testing and other parameters. He mentioned that the report likely covered lakes and rivers
but not ponds, and that Oakdale has many ponds – so it would be helpful to know information
about the quality of water in local ponds as well.
Finally, Chair Miller opened the floor for comments on the third section of the draft plan (i.e.
‘GreenStep Cities Best Practice Priorities’). He mentioned that the City would be concluding
its update of the Bike and Pedestrian Plan in early 2023, and highlighted the importance of
having an updated Plan so that people have walking and bicycling access to community
facilities like the new Metro Transit Gold Line. He also stated need to update the city’s
sustainability metrics through the GreenStep Cities program in order to show progress towards
Oakdale’s environmental resiliency goals and maintain Step Five designation.
After fielding commentary from commissioners on the draft 2023 EMC Work Plan, Chair Miller
called for the Commission to support finalizing the edited draft plan.
A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER GERDING, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER
BROWN, TO SUPPORT THE 2023 EMC WORK PLAN WITH THE AMENDMENTS DISCUSSED AT
THE NOVEMBER 21, 2022 REGULAR MEETING OF THE EMC.
3 AYES
0 NAYS
MOTION CARRIED
ii. Electric Vehicle Suitability Assessment update
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November 21, 2022
Page Four
Chair Miller reminded the Commission that the City of Oakdale is a participant in Xcel
Energy’s Fleet Electrification Advisory Program, and that conducting an Electric Vehicle
Suitability Assessment (EVSA) is a primary component of participating in the program. He
shared that the EVSA has been authorized by the City Council and City Administrator.
Ms. Reidlinger stated that data collection for the EVSA is scheduled to conclude in early
December. She shared that initial results from the assessment indicate that six fleet vehicles
participating in the study may be ideal candidates to transition to an electric alternative, but
cautioned that additional data collection may change those conclusions. She clarified that
once data collection concludes, the assessment provider – Sawatch Labs – will analyze the
findings using its proprietary software and will provide a final report to City staff and to City
Council. She emphasized that the goal of the assessment is to provide information about the
economic viability, charging infrastructure requirements, and environmental impact of
incorporating electric vehicles into the City’s fleet. In response to Commissioner Gerding’s
question regarding which City departments were included in the assessment, Ms. Reidlinger
explained that fleet vehicles from several departments (including Public Works, Community
Development, Fire, and Police) are participating in the assessment.
b. OTHER ITEMS
i. Monthly review of the 2022 EMC Editorial Calendar
The EMC reviewed the themes and dates relevant to the 2022 environmental
communications strategy for the months of November and December 2022, and January
2023. Chair Miller noted that America Recycles Day is in November, and that the City operated
a pumpkin collection event the week following Halloween. He also highlighted the many social
media posts made in October for the Bike and Pedestrian Plan update project.
In response to Commissioner Wilson’s question regarding whether there is a shareable video
about Washington County’s food scraps drop-off program, Ms. Reidlinger reminded the
Commission that a video highlighting current and former EMC Commissioners who participate
in the program was created in 2021.
ii. Commissioner update(s)
Chair Miller shared that the EMC has three vacancies, and encouraged community members
to apply to be a Commissioner so that the Commission may better support the goals of its
2023 EMC Work Plan.
Commissioner Gerding plugged grant funding opportunities for water quality improvement
projects through the Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District, and shared his
experience with conducting infiltration testing and creating a site map for incorporating rain
gardens and erosion control methodologies in his yard.
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November 21, 2022
Page Five
He emphasized that the watershed district provides excellent resources to residents and
business owners who are interested in completing water quality improvement projects on their
own property. Chair Miller noted that the other two watershed districts with territory in Oakdale
have similar grant funding programs available.
iii. Council liaison update(s)
City Council Member Zabel shared that the City Council is wrapping up work on the 2023 City
budget, and that the budget would be finalized after the Truth in Taxation hearing is held on
December 13, 2022. He encouraged all residents to attend the Truth in Taxation hearing to
understand how tax dollars are apportioned in the City budget.
City Council Member Zabel also noted that the City continues to field a number of development
inquiries and proposals, including at Oakdale Marketplace. He highlighted construction work
underway at 4th St. and Helmo Avenue, and in the Willowbrooke neighborhood. He also
recognized the official groundbreaking of the Gold Line BRT project and explained that site
prep work would begin shortly for the Helmo/Bielenberg overpass.
NEXT MEETING DATE
Chair Miller reminded the Commission that the next meeting of the EMC will be Monday,
January 9, 2023 in the City Council Chambers.
ADJOURNMENT
A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER WILSON, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER BROWN,
TO ADJOURN THE NOVEMBER 21, 2022 REGULAR MEETING OF THE OAKDALE
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION AT 7:42 P.M.
3 AYES
0 NAYS
MOTION CARRIED
Meeting Adjourned
Respectfully submitted,
Shannon Reidlinger
Sr. Community Development Specialist
TO: Environmental Management Commission
FROM: Shannon Reidlinger
DATE: January 4, 2023
SUBJ: 2023 Adopt-A-Drain schedule
The purpose of this memorandum is to inform the Environmental Management Commission
(EMC) of the schedule for clearing the three drains near Walton Park adopted through the
Adopt-A-Drain program.
Due to the location of the drains as well as the seasonal nature of organic waste buildup (such
as leaves, other tree waste, grass, and brush), the Commission elected during the October
18, 2021 EMC meeting to modify the drain clearing schedule during winter months. In 2023,
commissioners are assigned to clear the drains of debris based on the following schedule:
• March: Wilson
• April: Gerding
• May: Brown
• June: Miller
• July: Wilson
• August: Gerding
• September: Brown
• October: Miller
• November: Wilson
• December: Gerding
The following map depicts the location of the three adopted drains (circled in red).
Oakdale City Hall
TO: Environmental Management Commission
FROM: Shannon Reidlinger
DATE: January 4, 2023
SUBJ: Review of initial community engagement results for the Bike and Pedestrian
Plan update project
The purpose of this memorandum is to summarize community engagement work completed
for, and next steps of, the city’s updated Bike and Pedestrian Plan (the “Plan”).
Background
Oakdale’s bike and pedestrian system provides an affordable transportation option with
recreation and health benefits. To better connect people and where they live to the region’s
growing multimodal transportation network, Oakdale’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan calls for
updating the 1995 Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan (Chapter Three, Goal Four, Policy One). The
City contracted with Toole Design in 2019 to undertake a Bike and Pedestrian Plan update
project; due to the pandemic, project work was halted in 2020 with the project only partially
complete. Project work relaunched in the spring of 2022. To date, the project team has
completed the following:
• Level of traffic stress analysis
• Bus stop inventory
• Gold Line transit station travel shed maps
• Review of existing bicycle, pedestrian, and transit policies and programs
• Map of destinations
• Map of existing bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure
• Community Engagement Plan activities described below (presented to City Council at
the July 26, 2022 workshop)
Summary of community engagement completed to date
The purpose of community engagement is to enable Oakdale residents and business owners
to identify key themes that will guide recommendations in the updated Bike and Pedestrian
Plan. The goals of community engagement are to provide an open and transparent process,
create spaces for listening, generate inclusive public engagement opportunities, and
encourage walking and biking in Oakdale. To date, community feedback has been collected
by:
• Conducting a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis
with Oakdale’s advisory bodies, including:
o The Environmental Management Commission (August 15, 2022)
o The Planning Commission (September 1, 2022)
o The Economic Development Commission (September 7, 2022)
o Parks and Recreation Commission (September 20, 2022)
• Hosting one open house on October 19, 2022 with 16 community participants
• Hosting one pop-up workshop at the Farmers Market on September 28, 2022 with
50 community participants
• Hosting one pop-up workshop at the Oakdale branch of the library on October 24,
2022 with 9 community participants
• Conducting an online questionnaire and WikiMap (with results from the 2019
questionnaire/WikiMap and 2022 questionnaire/WikiMap jointly analyzed)
• Conducting two focus groups with 42 sophomores, juniors, and seniors from Tartan
High School on December 9, 2022
• Conducting one virtual focus group with eight members of the Oakdale 50+ Wellness
Group and participants of the Oakdale Community Walk on January 4, 2023
Draft goals and strategies
By uncovering the issues and ideas from community members with both active and passive
interest in bicycling and walking through soliciting public feedback, recommendations
included in the Plan will better reflect the community’s values and priorities. The results of
community engagement activities inform the draft goals and strategies used to guide
delivery of the Plan.
Based on community feedback, the following draft goals and strategies are recommended
for the Oakdale Bike and Pedestrian Plan; prioritization is not implied. The draft outline will
be refined based on input from City staff, the Environmental Management Commission, and
the City Council. After the draft outline is agreed upon, content (including detailed action
steps) will be developed under each goal and strategy.
• Goal A: Expand the extent of the pedestrian and bicycle network
o Strategy 1: Build and improve linear facilities
o Strategy 2: Build and improve crossings
o Strategy 3: Prioritize projects that connect important travel destinations
• Goal B: Maintain the Existing Pedestrian and Bicycle Network
o Strategy 4: Improve maintenance of crosswalk markings
o Strategy 5: Improve winter maintenance of walking and bicycling facilities
o Strategy 6: Improve routine maintenance of path and sidewalk pavement
• Goal C: Encourage active travel and inform the community about walking and
bicycling options
o Strategy 7: Expand destinations within easy walking and bicycling distance of
residential areas
o Strategy 8: Promote the existing walking and bicycling network
o Strategy 9: Increase community awareness of safety issues
TO: Environmental Management Commission
FROM: Shannon Reidlinger
DATE: January 4, 2023
SUBJ: Election of Commission Chair and Vice Chair
Background
Chapter Six of the City Code of Ordinances states that the Environmental Management
Commission (EMC) shall elect from its membership a Chair and Vice Chair annually at its first
meeting of the year. According to Article III, section 3.2 of the Commission’s bylaws, the Chair
shall preside at all Commission meetings and be recognized as the head of the Commission
for all ceremonial purposes. In case of the Chair’s absence or temporary disability, the Vice
Chair shall act as Chair during the continuance of absence. Neither the City Code of
Ordinances nor EMC bylaws specify term limits with regards to serving in these positions.
Therefore, all Commission members are eligible to serve in 2023.
Election Process: Commission Chair
The following is the process for the election of Commission Chair. Ballots for voting will be
distributed.
1. Nominate candidates for the Chair position. Nominations do not require a "second", but
other members may "second" the nomination to show support.
"Motion to nominate Commissioner _______ for the position of Chair."
2. When there are no new nominations to be made, a commissioner should make a motion
that nominations close. The motion to close requires a "second".
"Motion to close nominations for the position of Chair."
3. Election using the ballot provided. Commissioners write in their choice from those
nominated and pass the ballots to staff for tabulating.
4. Staff will announce results.
5. Election of Chair requires a motion and a “second”.
"Motion to elect Commissioner ____________ for the position of Chair of the
Environmental Management Commission for a period of one (1) calendar year,
commencing with the January 9, 2023 meeting."
Election Process: Commission Vice Chair
The following is the process for the election of Commission Vice Chair. Ballots for voting will
be distributed.
1. Nominate candidates for the Vice Chair position. Nominations do not require a "second",
but other members may "second" the nomination to show support.
"Motion to nominate Commissioner _______ for the position of Chair."
2. When there are no new nominations to be made, a commissioner should make a motion
that nominations close. The motion to close requires a "second".
"Motion to close nominations for the position of Vice Chair."
3. Election using the ballot provided. Commissioners write in their choice from those
nominated and pass the ballots to staff for tabulating.
4. Staff will announce results.
5. Election of Chair requires a motion and a “second”.
"Motion to elect Commissioner ____________ for the position of Vice Chair of the
Environmental Management Commission for a period of one (1) calendar year,
commencing with the January 9, 2023 meeting."
Assumption of the roles of Chair and Vice Chair may commence immediately following the
vote.
TO: Environmental Management Commission
FROM: Shannon Reidlinger
DATE: January 4, 2023
SUBJ: Review of 2023 environmental communications strategy
This memorandum invites discussion of the 2023 environmental communications strategy.
In order to refine the strategy, the EMC is encouraged to consider:
• Modifying or completely changing the theme for a given month
• Identifying specific messages and/or content to convey in a given month
• Identifying specific channels by which to convey a message and/or content in a given
month
• Identifying opportunities for direct and indirect Commissioner engagement
• Identifying partner organizations to share and/or directly provide educational content
and resources
Policy overview
It is the City’s policy to foster environmental resiliency, adaptation, and mitigation among the
community. Coordinating timely communication about programs and information is an
important consideration in achieving the City’s environmental management priorities.
Implementing an environmental communications strategy will ensure residents, business
owners and their employees, developers, and other audiences in Oakdale receive the
information and resources they need to make environmentally sustainable decisions.
Consequently, staff has prepared a draft 2023 environmental communications strategy.
Aligning with 2040 Comprehensive Plan priorities and the 2023 EMC Work Plan, the goal of
the environmental communications strategy is to increase awareness of and education about
energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, and recycling.
Annual editorial calendar
The 2023 environmental communications strategy shall be implemented using an annual
editorial calendar. The editorial calendar provides an opportunity to focus on relevant themes
at key times throughout the year. These themes may be ongoing in nature (i.e. increasing
energy efficiency and recycling, conserving water, reducing waste, etc.) or specific to a date
or program (i.e. an electric vehicle Ride and Drive event, a Washington County Recycling Grant
project, the Adopt-a-Drain program, etc.).
The editorial calendar takes the following into consideration:
• Objective. Establishing the primary goal of the environmental communications strategy
ensures messaging facilitate the priorities of the EMC, including:
o Becoming an EV-ready community
o Promoting energy efficiency
o Connecting low-income residents to weatherization and energy efficiency resources
o Promoting renewable energy
o Reducing waste
o Increasing recycling
o Promoting water conservation
o Educating the community about the Bike and Pedestrian Plan update project
Public outreach and communication of these topics will fulfill one of the following
objectives:
1. RAISE AWARENESS by conveying public service announcements
2. INFORM by communicating environmental information, tips, and reminders
3. PROMOTE relevant events and programs
• Resources. Communication materials intended for Oakdale businesses and residents may
be provided by community partners including:
o Washington County Environmental Services
o Adopt-a-Drain
o Xcel Energy residential
o Xcel Energy business
o GreenSteps Cities
o Center for Energy & Environment
o Recycling Association of Minnesota
o United State Environmental Protection Agency
o Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
o Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota
o Washington Conservation District
o East Metro Water Resource Education Program
o Blue Thumb
o Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District
o Community Action Partnership of Ramsey & Washington Counties
• Channels. Environmental content intended for Oakdale businesses and residents may be
communicated through the following channels:
o City of Oakdale social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, NextDoor)
o City newsletter “Oakdale Update”
o City website
o Printed collateral
o Electronic message boards
o City building lobbies
o Direct mail
o Cross-promotion with partner organizations
• Calendar. Content is scheduled on an annualized basis in a relevant and timely manner
according to the following draft editorial calendar:
Draft 2023 EMC Editorial Calendar
January: Energy Efficiency
Dates related to Resources related to monthly Commission/community
monthly topic topic engagement
• Home energy audit with Home
Energy Squad
• Xcel Energy rebates and
• Commission: Conduct a home
home services
energy audit and share
National Cut Your • Citizens Utility Board (CUB) experience via website/social
Energy Costs Day resources and bill clinics media
– Jan 10 o Energy and weatherization
• Staff: Promote virtual CUB
assistance
energy bill consultations (Jan
• Commercial energy efficiency 13, 17, 26, 30)
resources (Clean Energy
Project Builder, PACE, Trillion
BTU)
February: Transition to Spring
Dates related to Resources related to monthly Commission/community
monthly topic topic engagement
• Commission: Share pictures
• Spring cleaning –
of drop-off or pick-up at
Environmental Center
National Battery Environmental Center
(batteries, recycling, Free
Day – Feb 18 • Staff: Coordinate a
Product Room)
community battery drop-off at
• Outdoor salt use
City Hall
March: Reuse and Recycle
Dates related to Resources related to monthly Commission/community
monthly topic topic engagement
Global Recycling • Rain barrels and rain gardens
Day – Mar 18 o Watershed District water • Commission: Share pictures
World Water Day quality improvement of rain barrels or rain gardens
– Mar 22 grants in action
National • Environmental Center (reuse • Staff: Promote the County’s
Groundwater room, food scraps drop-off rain barrel and backyard
Awareness Week program) compost bin sale
– first full week • BizRecycling
April: Environmental Stewardship
Dates related to Resources related to monthly Commission/community
monthly topic topic engagement
Earth Day – Apr
• Adopt-A-Park
22
National Park • Adopt-A-Drain
Week – the week • Adopt-A-Wetland
of Earth Day • Information about planting • Commission: Share pictures
National native species of cleaning adopted drains in
Environmental Walton Park
Education Week – • Staff: Adopt a drain near City
third full week Hall
Keep America
Beautiful Month
May: Bicycling and Walking
Dates related to Resources related to monthly Commission/community
monthly topic topic engagement
Bike to Work Day • Commission: Share pictures
– May 20 of walking and bicycling along
• Oakdale Bike and Pedestrian
National Bike to favorite routes and paths in
Plan update project
Work Week – May Oakdale
16 – 22 • Information about local trails
• Staff: Share pictures of
and routes
walking and bicycling along
National Bike • Bicycle safety education
favorite routes and paths in
Month
Oakdale
June: Renewable Energy
Dates related to Resources related to monthly Commission/community
monthly topic topic engagement
• Renewable energy programs
via Xcel Energy
o Windsource
o Solar*Rewards (installed • Commission/staff: Host an
World
solar panels) Environmental Resource Fair
Environment Day
o Solar*Rewards at the Oakdale Discovery
– Jun 5
Community (community Center
solar garden)
• Grow Solar Twin Cities solar
group buy program
July: Going Plastic-Free
Dates related to Resources related to monthly Commission/community
monthly topic topic engagement
Plastic Bag Free • Washington County • Commission: Staff an
Day – Jul 3 Environmental Center (reuse informational table at the
room, food scrap drop-off Farmers Market
program) • Staff: Coordinate reusable
Plastic Free July
• Compost bins and reusable bag giveaway at Farmers
bags at the Farmers Market Market
August: Water Conservation
Dates related to Resources related to monthly Commission/community
monthly topic topic engagement
• Commission: Conduct a
consultation with a watershed
district representative and
• Adopt-A-Drain
share experience via
• Adopt-A-Wetland
website/social media
National Water • Rain barrels and rain gardens
Quality Month • Staff: Coordinate a guest
o Watershed District water
presentation by
quality improvement
representatives from one or
grants
more watershed district
during the regular meeting of
the EMC in March
September: Electric Vehicles
Dates related to Resources related to monthly Commission/community
monthly topic topic engagement
Zero Emissions
• EV-ready amendments to
Day – Sep 21
Oakdale’s Code of Ordinances
Car Free Day – • Commission/staff: Host EV
• Drive Electric Minnesota
Sep 22 ride-and-drive event
• Shift2Electric
National Drive
Electric Week • Touch-A-Truck
October: Renewable Energy
Dates related to Resources related to monthly Commission/community
monthly topic topic engagement
Energy Efficiency • Home energy audit with Home
Day – Oct 5 Energy Squad
National LED • Xcel Energy rebates and
Light Day – Oct 7 home services • Commission: Conduct a home
National Solar • Citizens Utility Board (CUB) energy audit and share
Tour resources and bill clinics experience via website/social
o Energy and weatherization media
assistance • Staff: Promote virtual CUB
Energy • Commercial energy efficiency energy bill consultations
Awareness Month resources (Clean Energy
Project Builder, PACE, Trillion
BTU)
November: Reuse and Recycling
Dates related to Resources related to monthly Commission/community
monthly topic topic engagement
• Washington County • Commission: Share pictures
America Recycles
Environmental Center of at-home composting
Day – Nov 15
• BizRecycling opportunities
• Food scraps drop-off program • Staff: Coordinate pumpkin
o EMC-specific composting drop-off
video
December: Low-Waste Holidays
Dates related to Resources related to monthly Commission/community
monthly topic topic engagement
National • Commission: Share personal
Christmas Lights tips and tricks for reducing
Day – Dec 1 • Christmas lights – energy
waste during the holiday
efficiency and recycling
World Pollution season
Prevention Day – • Tree recycling
• Staff: Coordinate Christmas
Dec 2 tree drop-off
• Commissioner engagement. Commissioners may further facilitate implementation of the
environmental communications strategy by:
o Providing feedback on monthly themes and content
o Sharing editorial calendar content to social media and through additional
communication channels (email, neighborhood newsletter, etc.)
o Supplementing editorial calendar content with pictures and/or video, and narrative
copy
o Volunteering for in-person events (i.e. compost pail give-away at the Farmers Market,
Ride and Drive or Touch a Truck events, CUB clinics, Solar Power Hour information
sessions, etc.) to share information and answer questions
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