Parks & Natural Resources Commission

Parks and Natural Resources Commission Agenda July 7, 2020 | 7 p.m. Council Chambers Woodbury City Hall, 8301 Valley Creek Road Please note: Due to COVID-19, the July 7 Parks and Natural Resources Commission meeting is taking place virtually and at City Hall in the Council Chambers. Members of the public may attend the meeting but will be required to comply with social distancing parameters as determined by the City. Members of the public may also join the meeting using a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or Android device. Public comments will be accepted during the meeting by using the link to the virtual meeting to join the meeting and then submit your questions via the online Q&A feature within the meeting. Please note that all agenda times are estimates. 7:00* 1. Call to Order 7:01 2. Open Forum 7:05 3. Approval of Minutes – June 2, 2020 7:10 4. Sustainability Initiative – Memorandum No. 20–08 – Jennifer McLoughlin, Sustainability Specialist 7:40 5. Seasons Park Stormwater Filter – Memorandum No. 20–09 – Kristin Seaman, Environmental Resource Specialist 8:00 6. Phase II Development Update – Eric Searles, City Planner 8:30 7. Valley Creek Park Update – Mike Adams, Parks Planner 9:10 8. Monthly Update – Memorandum No. 20-10 9:15 9. Council Report – Council Member Scoggins 9:20 10. Announcements/Miscellaneous 9:30 11. Adjourn If a Commission member cannot attend this meeting, please contact Belinda Reed at 651-714-3584 by Monday, July 6, 2020. Thank you. The City of Woodbury is subject to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability by public entities. The City is committed to full implementation of the Act to our services, programs, and activities. Information regarding the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act is available from the City Administrator's office at 651-714-3500. Auxiliary aids for disabled persons are available upon request at least 72 hours in advance of an event. Please call the ADA Coordinator, at 651-714-3500 (TDD 651-714-3568) to make arrangements.  City of Woodbury Woodbury City Hall 8301 Valley Creek Road Woodbury, MN 55125 651-714-3583 Minutes of Parks and Natural Resources Commission Regular Meeting Tuesday, June 2, 2020 (Revised: July 1, 2020) Commission Members Present: Greta Bjerkness (Chair), Timothy Brewington II, Karin Freymann, Bruce Montgomery, Jakob Neau Commission Member(s) Virtual: Arin Kurttila, Deborah Musser, Rachel Nelson Commission Member(s) Absent: None Council Member Virtual: Amy Scoggins Staff Present: Michael Adams, Parks Planner – In-person Elizabeth Owens, Recreation Program Specialist Staff Virtual: Michelle Okada, Parks and Recreation Director Belinda Reed, Administrative Assistant Emily Stephens, Water Resources Engineer Call to Order Chair Bjerkness called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Open Forum Chair Bjerkness explained that the Open Forum is a portion of the meeting where a maximum of three persons will be allowed to address the Commission on subjects, which are not a part of the meeting agenda. Due to the current pandemic situation, this meeting is being held virtually. Because of this, a couple of changes have been made to our meeting protocol. All Commission members and staff are asked to announce their title and name before making any motion or comment. Online attendees may use the Live Event Q&A chat feature in the right hand pane of the virtual meeting to ask questions of the Commission. You will need to enter your name and street address for the record for all questions or comments. Questions or comments can be entered at any time and will be read and answered during the appropriate section of the meeting. If in-person, please come forward and introduce yourself, provide your street address and issue you would like to address. Speakers are limited to two minutes. The Commission will listen attentively to comments but, in most instances, will not respond at the meeting. Typically, replies to the concerns expressed will be made via letter or phone call within a week. Ms. Megan Samuel, 1661 Deephaven Drive, read a text message from Ms. Mariah Neuharth, 1553 Headwaters Lane, who was not present at the meeting. Ms. Neuharth’s overarching Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes June 2, 2020 Page 2 concerns surrounded the public process and she stated she would like to see the Miller Barn removed and the land remain natural open space. Ms. Samuel, 1661 Deephaven Drive, then addressed the Commission noting that Valley Creek Community Park is a beautiful piece of property, with the oak trees, pine stand and tall grasses, but that she does not feel the barn has any historic significance and is the least interesting thing on the property. Ms. Samuels also noted that she wished there was an option to take the barn down and asked who will be responsible for the barn going forward and what the cost would be to the city in the long run. Ms. Okada, Parks and Recreation director, noted that there is one other email comment appropriate to share during the open forum time from Mr. Michael Chauss, 1641 Deephaven Drive. Mr. Chauss feels strongly about the barn development and noted it feels wrong to invest huge amounts of money to preserve the barn. Action and Discussion Items A. March 4, 2020, Parks and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Minutes Chair Bjerkness asked for the approval of the Minutes of the March 4, 2020, meeting of the Parks and Natural Resources Commission. MOTION: Moved by Commissioner Brewington, seconded by Commissioner Montgomery, to approve the March 4, 2020, Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes. VOTE: In favor All In-person and Virtual Against None Absent None B. Valley Creek Park Concept Plan – Memorandum No. 20 - 06 Mr. Adams noted that he would make a presentation and attempt to recreate some of the momentum from the last PNRC meeting held in March, and quickly go over some of the key points of the process, to continue the conversation during the meeting. The presentation included:  A review of the public engagement results for desired park amenities and the Miller Barn;  A review of the current Concept Plan, stormwater and wetland impacts;  A discussion on the tree inventory and preferred trail alignment for the Deephaven Drive neighborhood access;  Miller Barn scope options; and  A review of the conceptual design cost estimates. Mr. Adams noted that staff would be asking the Commission for their recommendations on the top three Concept Plan priorities and a preferred option for the Miller Barn. 1. What are the Commission’s top three priorities of the Concept Plan? 2. What is the preferred scope option for the Miller Barn? Should the city use Legacy Grant dollars? 3. What is the preferred trail alignment for the neighborhood access off Deephaven Drive? Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes June 2, 2020 Page 3 Ms. Okada noted that the city’s Water Resources Engineer, Emily Stephens, was attending the meeting virtually, and available to answer any questions related to the wetland piece. Public Engagement Mr. Adams reviewed the top nine responses to the online and in-person (during Woodbury Days 2019), public survey questions:  Nature Playground – 55%  Habitat Restoration – 52%  Adventure Play – 45%  Paved Trails – 41%  Sledding Hill – 38%  Playground – 28%  Observation Areas – 24%  Picnic Areas – 20%  Mountain Biking – 20% Mr. Adams also noted that following a Council workshop, where the Legacy Grant was discussed as it related to the Miller Barn, and the potential implications of using the grant, resulted in a series of questions being added to the survey about the Miller Barn, in order to get a better handled on what the level of interest was with the Miller Barn, early on in the concept phase of this planning process. Mr. Adams reviewed the Miller Barn survey questions and correlating response percentages of those surveyed that: 1) agreed, 2) disagreed or 3) did not know, for each question. Concept Plan Mr. Adams reviewed the components of the current Valley Creek Community Park Concept Plan noting it is the same plan that the PNRC reviewed at the March meeting:  2-Lane road access  15 Paved parking stalls  Impervious parking for an addition 55 stalls  Prairie area  Smaller adventure play area  Neighborhood access off of Deephaven Drive  Paved trail loop to the north with soft surface trails off to the east Mr. Adams noted the stormwater calculations have been calculated off the above listed components. Onsite Wetland and Stormwater Impact Ms. Stephens reviewed the three wetlands on the park site including the headwater of the trout stream designated by the Valley Branch Watershed District. It was also noted that the DNR has not designated it as a trout stream. Ms. Stephens noted that no trout is present in the wetland and typically, there is no standing water. The wetland was noted as being dominated by native species with invasive species near the existing access road. Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes June 2, 2020 Page 4 Ms. Stephens summarized the multiple agencies that regulate the wetland area in the park as well as the wetland impacts, noting the Concept Plan access road improvements will result in very minimal fill to the wetland (0.20 acres or less of a total area of 3.5 acres) with the location most directly impacted, is currently dominated by invasive species. Overall, a lot of the work on the project will enhance stormwater and the environment, with stormwater features being added to treat existing runoff from Valley Creek Road, before it goes into the wetland. The overall work is very beneficial to this wetland and the work that is being planned will be approved and permitted with all of the regulatory agencies mentioned. Mr. Adams noted that typically, at the Concept Plan level of development, we would not even be contacting these agencies for this work, but we really wanted to understand whether public access to this space, as we were showing it, was feasible given the constraints of the headwaters. Staff has not yet applied for permits or received any approval; however, staff does have collaboration with all the stakeholders and they have provided feedback so that when we do go through the permitting process, this is not new to them and they have had input on this Concept Plan. Tree Inventory Mr. Adams noted that a tree inventory was completed in the NW corner of the park, which is dominated by the oaks. Inventory reveals there are many quality trees with an understory of Buckthorn and there is also Armillaria Root Rot present, which is untreatable. Approximately 75 trees were identified as impacted by the paved trail loop through that area. It was noted that not all of the 75 trees are high quality trees and some have root rot or are already declining. During actually trail alignment, each of the trees will be looked at. Neighborhood Access off Deephaven Drive Mr. Adams noted there are two options for the neighborhood access off Deephaven Drive: the preferred trail option behind the homes shown on the existing Concept Plan trail loop, and Option 2, which is a trail up into the hill, which has an elevation gain resulting in a 20 percent slope to go up the hill. Mr. Adams noted that normally trails average 5 percent slope or less. The trail going up the hill will have quite a few feet of graded area on either side and require a number of switchbacks, which will affect 20 trees or more based off of conceptual designs and typography. Ms. Stephens identified concerns with Option 2 (trail going up the hill into the woods), including erosion, even with tying in the grades and doing the best of trying to smooth things out, there will be erosion, with dirt washing away from tree and plant roots, which could result in long-term maintenance on an annual basis, to hold the dirt from washing away. Option 1 was described as a more gradual slope and grade. The preferred trail option shown on the Concept Plan, running behind the homes, would not require removal of mature trees, and would include some additional plantings for screening in recognition of closer proximity to homes. Option 2, trail up the hill into the woods, will require switchbacks but have less impact on adjacent properties. This option would require the loss of approximately 20 mature trees including red oak, bur oak and black cherry, which are in good health as well as some additional stormwater consideration with erosion, replacement trees for those removed and switchbacks to navigate up a 20 percent slope. Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes June 2, 2020 Page 5 The park main entrance for this area of the neighborhood will connect to paved trails and the width of the paved trail link can be made to be the least impactful. Mr. Adams noted that homeowners directly impacted by the trail have a preference to have the trail go up the hill into the woods or Option 2. A discussion took place with regard to the water impact of Option 2. Stormwater implications would be necessary to address as well as how to redirect flow to avoid unintended consequences of bringing water down into the yards of the adjacent homes. A discussion took place with regard to pea gravel versus paved trails. It was noted that pea gravel on the hill could wash away during a large rain event even if it were packed down. Miller Barn Mr. Adams presented descriptions and cost estimates for each of the five different Miller Barn options including costs associated with the $160,000 Legacy Grant for the first four options. For each of the first 4 options, Mr. Adams noted that there is a Legacy Grant Premium, which provides estimates on what would be the cost of utilizing the $160,000 Legacy Grant to show the additional dollars required to be historically sensitive to the building, as it is remodeled, and the increase complexities of the remodel and the increased cost with each of those complexities, which is shown as a percentage of the overall costs of the option. Mr. Adams noted that the Heritage Society contribution has not been included as a funding source in the cost estimates. A discussion took place with regard to the possibility of relocating the barn to the Radio Drive/Lake Road park location, but it was noted there might not be enough space on that corner to relocate the barn. Each of the five options were reviewed and discussed. Mr. Adams noted that the costs shown are for construction or remodel purposes of the barn and do not address ongoing maintenance as there will be annual costs to maintain the barn. Mr. Adams noted that every option is going to require ongoing maintenance costs, which would increase as you move up through Options 1 through 4. Ms. Okada noted that the barn would be considered a significant asset and added to the Parks and Trails Replacement Plan for maintenance purposes. Master Plan Conceptual Construction Estimates Mr. Adams reviewed the Master Plan Conceptual Construction Estimates with and without the Grant dollars. Mr. Adams noted that while the Grant dollars would provide $160,000 in funding, there would be a string attached to how to utilize the money and renovate the barn, which would be subject to the Secretary of Interior standards. Without the use of the Grant dollars, the city would determine how the barn is renovated with the city’s uses in mind. Ms. Okada shared additional comments and questions provided by the public: Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes June 2, 2020 Page 6 Ms. Stephanie Chauss, 1641 Deephaven Drive, asked: “As a homeowner, we purchased our lot with full understanding that a path would run along the north side of our property. At the time, Park and Rec staff assured us that the path would run straight into the woods and that there would be dollars allocated from the city to assist in creating a landscape buffer. We were excited to have more community members have access to this beautiful property and have no objections to the path running alongside our property. This plan, however, compromises 2 sides of our property and now negatively impacts additional property owners. What is the net savings of moving the path after an allocation is applied for at least 3 property owners to create a landscape barrier?” Ms. Stephanie Chauss, 1641 Deephaven Drive, asked how the slope compares to the steep switchback at Powers Lake. Mr. Adams did not currently have the slope number for Powers Lake, but noted that a trail slope of 5-8 percent would be the most slope preferred with anything above that you would want to be as short a distance as possible. The steeper you make the slopes the more problems created with water runoff. Mr. Adams noted the hill on Valley Creek Road from Colby Lake Park up to the top of the hill is similar to something that would be an 8 percent category overall and that the entire hill is an average of 4 percent due to the bottom of the hill being more shallow. The 5-8 percent slope is the goal to start with. With regard to net savings of moving the path, Mr. Adams noted to bring the trail along the alignment shown in the backyards, there would be dollars available for screening and landscaping around the park amenities. The transition will be from highly manicured homes to a more natural area. Ms. Mariah Neuharth, 1553 Headwaters Lane, noted her Miller Barn preference would be for Option 5 and the removal of the barn. The Commissioners were asked for the top three priorities for the Concept Plan. Following a discussion among the Commissioners, the following top three priorities were determined, in order of importance: 1. Natural Resource Habitat Restoration 2. Providing paved and unpaved trails 3. Adventure/nature play space as shown on the Concept Plan A discussion took place with regard to the Miller Barn options. The preferred scope option for the Miller Barn:  Option 1 for the Miller Barn to be a fixture on the landscape of the park with no public occupancy. A discussion took place with regard to whether or not the city should use the Legacy Grant dollars.  The Commission recommends accepting the Legacy Grant to complete the Option 1 scope on the Miller Barn. Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes June 2, 2020 Page 7 Ms. Okada shared a comment from Mariah Neuharth, 1553 Headwaters Lane. Ms. Neuharth noted her disagreement with the Miller Barn being an important piece of history. A discussion took place with regard to the preferred trail alignment for the neighborhood access off Deephaven Drive. Ms. Okada noted Ms. Stephanie Chauss, 1641 Deephaven Drive, noted that if there is not a lot of traffic, why invest in the trail system? Mr. Adams noted that the access is critical park access point for the neighborhood and without it the neighborhood would have to go out on Settlers Ridge Parkway to Valley Creek Road to access the park. Ms. Okada noted what staff is looking for the Commission’s preferred option based on what we know. As we start to model this, the last thing we want is to build a trail that now is going to flood the backyards of these three homeowners. So once we get more information, but we will not get to that point until we get to those construction plans. So at this point, we are looking for the Commission’s preferred option knowing that we may need to make adjustments based on the multiple factors. Mr. Adams noted staff really tried to be fair with what is being shown and what is being estimated based on where we are currently. Mr. Adams noted there would be at least two bends in the trail going up the hill and based on the tree inventory, 20 trees, for certain, will be impacted.  The Commission chose Option 2, (trail going up the hill into the woods) but was concerned about a water issue and asked for staff to do a feasibility study for Option 2 and, if it is found that Option 2 is not doable, then go with Option 1, the way it is on the Concept Plan. Mr. Adams noted that the Commission’s recommendations will be presented to the City Council at their June 17, workshop meeting. Ms. Okada shared additional comments and questions provided by the public: Ms. Michelle Thomas, 1651 Deephaven Drive, noted that her choice would be Option 2, if feasible, and if not, then Option 1 or the preferred option as shown on the Concept Plan. Ms. Stephanie Chauss, 1641 Deephaven Drive, thanked the Commission for their service. Ms. Megan Samuel, 1661 Deephaven Drive, also thanked the Commission for their thoughtfulness. C. 2019 Parks and Recreation Department Annual Report – Memorandum No. 20 - 07 Ms. Okada noted that the department’s annual report documents the year in review, highlighting key items and statistics for each division within the department. Of note, this is the first year that the Eagle Valley Golf Course and HealthEast Sports Center, each an enterprise operation, have been included in the overall department’s annual report. Ms. Okada noted that Woodbury Magazine’s Best of Woodbury 2019, the department was awarded “Best Place for Kids’ Activities.” The city was also awarded the Bronze Level Bike Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists. Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes June 2, 2020 Page 8 A discussion took place with what is yet to be done in wrapping up the new Oehlke Park located in the Copper Ridge development. Mr. Adams noted that additional trees would be added along with turf renovation. It was also noted that the large, open space adjacent to the basketball court, could be developed into a future tennis court, if needed. Chair Bjerkness asked for the approval of the 2019 Parks and Recreation Department Annual Report – Memorandum No. 20 - 07. MOTION: Moved by Commissioner Nelson, seconded by Commissioner Brewington, to approve the 2019 Parks and Recreation Department Annual Report. VOTE: In favor All In-person and Virtual Against None Absent None Council Report – Council Member Scoggins Council Member Scoggins noted the City Council’s June meeting schedule: June 10 and 24, and a workshop meeting on June 17, at 6:30 p.m., which will include Valley Creek Park discussion. Announcements/Miscellaneous Ms. Okada noted that Eagle Valley Golf Course recently opening and that today, the HealthEast Sports Center had a rental following very strict rental preparedness plan. Staff is working on adjusting to COVID-19 and we are looking to open facility and fields rentals following the plans that the state allows. Recreation programming continues to be evaluated. We want to offer as many recreational programs that we can all within those guidelines and based on the interest of participants. The 4th of July celebration, including food trucks, music and fireworks has been cancelled this year. The Woodbury Days Council has also cancelled Woodbury Days. The Commission inquired about staff layoffs. Ms. Okada noted that no staff have been laid off; staff have been reallocated and doing project work. We continue to adjust to the guidelines and restrictions related to our COVID-19 response. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 9:35 p.m. Respectfully submitted, ______________________________ Belinda Reed Administrative Assistant Approved by the Parks and Natural Resources Commission on July 7, 2020.  City Of Woodbury Parks and Recreation Department Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 20-08 July 7, 2020 Parks and Natural Resources Commission Members: Subject: Sustainability Initiatives The City of Woodbury has been proactive in becoming a resilient community through a number of actions related to energy efficiency, renewable energy, water conservation, recycling and waste management. This memo outlines the annual savings associated with the City’s community solar garden subscriptions, and provides an update on other initiatives related to sustainability. Since January 2017, the City has received credits on its Xcel Energy bills based on electricity produced from community solar gardens (CSGs) located in Dakota, Chisago, and Washington Counties. A CSG is a centralized solar photovoltaic system that produces electricity for subscribers. The program allows the City an opportunity to save on electricity bills, while supporting the development of renewable energy in Minnesota. The City’s Community Solar Garden (CSG) subscriptions were first initiated in 2017, and have secured direct savings to the city of $227,310 since January 2017. Those savings are expected to grow as additional CSG subscriptions are fulfilled throughout 2020. CSG subscriptions with Berkshire Hathaway Energy Renewables Through several CSG subscription agreements with Berkshire Hathaway Energy Renewables, distributed over fifteen City electric meters, the City is subscribed to 7,194,770 kWh of electricity. Since January 2017, the City has saved $182,544 from these subscriptions. In 2019, the City saved $57,816 on its annual electric bills. CSG subscriptions with U.S. Solar The City has entered into a number of agreements with U.S. Solar, and started receiving solar credits in December 2018, associated with 34 of the City’s electric meters. In 2019, an additional 880,000 kWh of electricity came online, and an additional 400,000 kWh of electricity will come online in 2020. Since then, the City has received $44,767 in CSG credits associated with gardens allocated to U.S. Solar. Solar Power Hours In 2019, the City partnered again with Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA) to host two Solar Power Hours at City Hall. The free sessions provide information to residents on the basics of how solar works, the different types of systems, available rebates, and the financial implications of installing a residential system. Interested residents are offered a free, no obligation site assessment to evaluate a home’s potential for solar. 2019 Solar installations and Renewable Energy investment in Woodbury Xcel Energy provides annual community energy reports with information on renewable energy installations. As of 2019, there are 107 on-site solar installations on residential and commercial properties in Woodbury. Residents and businesses that do not install solar on-site, may invest in renewable energy by subscribing to Xcel’s Windsource program for wind energy, Renewable Connect program for solar energy, or to independent community solar gardens. As of 2019, 1,130 households and 2 businesses Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 20–08 July 7, 2020 Page | 2 subscribe to Xcel’s Windsource program; 53 households and 13 businesses subscribe to Xcel’s Renewable Connect program, and 66 households and 19 businesses subscribe to community solar gardens. In total, 1,283 Woodbury households and businesses support renewable energy on their monthly energy bills from off-site locations. Plug-In hybrid electric vehicles in the City fleet The City’s fleet provides an opportunity to reduce fuel use through the transition to more efficient vehicles. In 2019, The City expanded the number of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) from four to six vehicles. The PHEVs are located in utilities, building inspections, and the public safety department. The City’s fleet also includes seven electric vehicles used for parks maintenance and four hybrid vehicles. In 2019, the City purchased the first hybrid pursuit-rated vehicle for public safety. In 2021, staff will evaluate how to improve charging efficiencies for the city’s fleet, and work to formalize a fleet action plan. Smart irrigation controller program for residential properties Due to the pandemic, the irrigation controller program has changed in 2020 to have controllers shipped directly to Woodbury homes from Rachio. In prior years, residents would pick the controllers up at City Hall. City staff and Rachio have developed a program to accommodate the current conditions, while continuing to provide this water saving opportunity to residents. Since the pilot program in 2016, over 2,100 Water Sense Certified controllers have been installed in Woodbury homes, saving approximately 63 million gallons of water each year. Within the first few months of the program, approximately 350 controllers have been shipped to qualified Woodbury residents. Water efficiency incentive program for commercial properties Since the cost-share program for commercial properties started in 2016, 55 properties have participated in the program, resulting in millions of gallons or water saved each year. The program is designed for customers paying commercial and residential irrigation rates, including businesses and homeowner associations. Approved projects will receive 50 percent funding assistance up to $8,000 for eligible improvements. Applications for the 2020 program will be accepted, through May 15. 2019 program for discounted Home Energy Squad visits Since July 2018, the City has partnered with a local nonprofit, Center for Energy and Environment (CEE), to offer discounted Home Energy Squad (HES) “Enhanced” visits to Woodbury homeowners. The “Enhanced” visit is valued at $600, which is subsidized by Xcel Energy and offered to homeowners at $100. Through the program, the City provided an additional subsidy of $30 to buy down the cost of an HES “Enhanced” visit to the cost of a “Basic” visit of $70. In 2019 and 2020, the subsidy was funded through the City’s Housing and Redevelopment Authority. In 2021, the program is proposed to be funded through the Engineering department. In 2019, CEE conducted 260 home visits in Woodbury, which includes free visits to income- qualified households and those subsidized by the City. Each visit includes the installation of LED light bulbs, weather-stripping, a programmable thermostat, high efficiency faucet aerators and showerheads, and an insulated water heater blanket. During the “Enhanced” visit, one of CEE’s certified auditors also analyzes the home’s potential for additional efficiency upgrades, including: Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 20–08 July 7, 2020 Page | 3 • A blower door test to calculate air leakage • Infrared imaging of heat loss areas • Inspection of the attic • Carbon monoxide combustion safety test Once the inspection is completed, the HES prepares a customized report about the home and makes specific recommendations for next steps. CEE also offers an energy advisor service to answer questions, and discuss available rebates and programs. The HES visits that were performed in Woodbury homes in 2018 and 2019 resulted in: • 8,368 LED bulbs installed • 27 water heater blankets installed • 107 homes weather stripping installed • 31 programmable thermostats installed • 314 high-efficiency shower heads installed • 498 bathroom sink aerators installed Energy and water savings from 2018 and 2019 installations • Approximately 428,334 kWh of electricity savings, equaling a savings of approximately $47,123 per year. • Approximately 2 million gallons of water saved per year. Based on recommendations from the HES, twenty households moved forward with additional work at their home in 2019, securing 39 energy rebates from Xcel Energy. Minnesota GreenStep Cities In June 2019, Woodbury received an award for advancing to become a Step 4 and 5 city in the Minnesota GreenStep Cities program at the League of Minnesota Cities conference. The City has been a Minnesota GreenStep City since 2013. Steps 4 and 5 were recently added to the program and focus on tracking metrics annually. To maintain Step 5 recognition, cities must improve in any three of the eligible metrics each year. In 2020, Woodbury has achieved Steps 4 and 5 for the second year in a row. Woodbury showed improvement in ten metrics, including: renewable energy purchases by the City, solar purchases and installations by commercial and residential properties, parkland and trail expansion, tree planting, and carbon emissions from the city’s fleet, city buildings and lighting. City Sustainability Handout In 2019, staff developed a sustainability handout to highlight some of the City’s accomplishments in sustainability (attached). The information is shared on the City’s website, social media, and at events, and will be updated annually. Annual Curbside Recycling Event The tenth annual Curbside Recycling Event was scheduled May 11-14, after the Woodbury Lions garage sales. Due to the pandemic, the event was reschedule to September 21-24, coinciding with the rescheduled Woodbury Lions garage sales. The event is a partnership between the City of Woodbury and the City’s licensed haulers to provide curbside recycling of appliance, tires, and scrap metal at a one-time reduced rate. Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 20–08 July 7, 2020 Page | 4 Green Times Environmental Newsletter The City’s Green Times newsletter is published three times per year as an insert in the City Update Newsletter. The publication provides information on environmental topics, events and programs. The next issue of the Green Times will be mailed to households in early July. The two most recent publications are attached. Respectfully submitted, /s/ Jennifer McLoughlin Sustainability Specialist Attachments: Sustainability Initiatives Handout November/December 2019 Green Times Newsletter March 2020 Green Times Newsletter  GreenTimes A special environmental edition November/December 2019 Factors to consider when purchasing an electric vehicle Electric vehicle (EV) sales are steadily increas- costs for an EV average 25 ing. According to the Minnesota Department of percent lower than with Transportation, nearly 10,000 electric vehicles a comparable internal were registered in Minnesota as of April 2019, combustion engine vehicle including 250 in Woodbury. because EVs do not require fluid changes or tune-ups, Although EVs may not work for every consumer, and there are fewer mechan- the increase in sales is largely due to the avail- ical components to fail and ability of models that offer longer electric driv- need replacing. ing ranges; decreasing prices in batteries and vehicles; and a larger variety of EV models on the Federal tax credits also help market. to make EVs more afford- able. Depending on the If you are considering purchasing an EV, there are model, tax credits range between $2,500 and The city owns a Chevrolet Volt plug-in several factors to consider: hybrid electric vehicle, resulting in a $7,500. Some EV manufacturers offer addi- fuel savings of $580 per year. Driving range tional incentives that have ranged between an additional $2,500 and $3,500. Electric vehicles fall into two categories: battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid elec- How will Minnesota temperatures Woodbury adds electric tric vehicles (PHEVs). BEVs run only on electric- impact the vehicle? vehicles to its fleet ity, and have all-electric ranges between 150 and EVs perform just as well as their gas-powered Fleet vehicles represent a great oppor- 250 miles, with some models that offer a range up counterparts when it comes to driving in tunity for cities to transition to more to 350 miles on a single charge. snow and ice, but Minnesota’s cold tempera- efficient vehicles. Currently, the City of If this range is not sufficient, a PHEV may be tures can impact an EV’s performance. A Woodbury’s fleet includes four plug- a better choice. PHEVs run on electricity for study conducted by AAA found that when in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), shorter ranges, generally between 15 and 50 miles, the ambient temperature dips to or below 20 seven electric vehicles that are used for depending on the model, then switch over to gaso- degrees Fahrenheit, and the vehicle’s heater parks maintenance and three hybrid line when the battery is depleted. Many people is keeping the car interior at 75 degrees, the vehicles. PHEVs in the fleet include prefer the flexibility that PHEVs offer because average electric car’s operating range drops two Chevrolet Volts and two Mitsubishi they can utilize the electric range for shorter trips by 41 percent. That means that for every 100 Outlanders. The city has also ordered and the internal combustion engine for longer miles of driving in optimal conditions, the the first hybrid pursuit-rated vehicle for trips. range would drop to 59 miles. If that range public safety. On average, Americans drive 29.2 miles per day, is not enough, consumers will need to plan The Chevrolet Volts replaced Chevrolet according to a study by the AAA Foundation for a stop for their next charge or consider the Cobalts, increasing the miles per gallon Traffic and Safety. PHEV alternative. from 16.9 mpg in the Cobalt to an aver- Cost of an EV Charging the vehicle age of 70 mpg in the Volt, resulting in an annual gas savings of $580. According to Bloomberg New Energy Finance Currently, EV drivers charge their vehicle at Electric Vehicle Outlook 2019, 57 percent of all home 80-90 percent of the time, simply by passenger vehicle sales are expected to be electric plugging the vehicle into a standard electrical According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the by 2040. The anticipated increase is attributed outlet. A Level 1 charger is a 120-volt outlet, average U.S. household spends nearly one-fifth to more affordable EV options being available; a which is a standard outlet found in a home. of its total family expenditures on transportation, decrease in battery prices; and enhancements to Level 1 chargers typically take eight hours to so saving on fuel can make a big difference in the battery’s lifespan. get a 40-mile charge. Some EV owners opt to terms of the average family’s budget. upgrade their garage outlet to 240 volts, mak- According to the Environmental Protection To find locations of available public chargers, ing it a Level 2 charger. Level 2 chargers can visit plugshare.com or download the mobile Agency, the most efficient EVs will cost the aver- charge 10-20 miles in one hour of charging. age owner $500 per year to drive 15,000 miles PlugShare app, which includes more than DC fast chargers (DCFC) provide the fastest 300,000 charging stations. (combined city/highway driving). That’s $4,700 charging and are often found along heavy less over a five-year ownership period than the traffic corridors. DCFCs provide 60-80 miles Learn more about EVs by visiting Drive Electric industry average. Kelley Blue Book says service of range in 20 minutes of charging. Minnesota’s website at driveelectricmn.org/com- munities. Discounted home energy assessment The Minnesota heating season is in full-swing as improvements may want to schedule a Home cold weather crept in earlier than expected. And Energy Squad visit. as temperatures continue to dive throughout the The Home Energy Squad will visit your home to state heating bills will be moving in the opposite install energy saving products such as: direction. In addition to straining our wallets, high energy bills can also signal energy waste. z LED bulbs Another indication that a home could be wasting z Door weather-stripping energy is the existence of drafts and cold spots z Faucet aerators and shower heads in the home. A lack of insulation and air sealing z Water heater wrap creates a condition where warm escapes through z Programmable thermostat the top of the house and cooler air is then pulled At the same time, the Home Energy Squad team in from below. As a result, homeowners need to will conduct an energy assessment that includes: turn up the temperature, which makes their fur- nace work harder. z Insulation inspection Energy waste is also observable from outside the z Blower door test home in the form of ice dams on the roof. The z Infrared camera Take it to THE BOX main cause of ice dams is warm air escaping into z Carbon monoxide safety check an attic that is not properly sealed and melting z Help with next steps the snow on the roof. Many homeowners will notice some icicles during the winter months but The Home Energy Squad is provided by Xcel Energy and CenterPoint Energy and delivered Dispose of unused in the more extreme cases excessive ice build-up can lead to water damage inside the home. by the local nonprofit, Center for Energy and Environment. Woodbury residents also receive High heating bills, draftiness or ice dams are a discount and pay only $70 (normally $100) medications at symptoms of potential energy efficiency issues. Homeowners looking to make some basic for the assessment plus all of the materials. To schedule your home visit, call 651-328-6220. Woodbury drop box Residents can dispose of any unused and expired medications for free at a year- round collection drop box located at the Washington County Service Center at 2150 Radio Drive in Woodbury. Medication disposed of in a sink, toilet or landfill can pollute surface and ground- water and harm fish and wildlife. Instead of flushing or throwing them in the trash, properly dispose of medications dur- ing business hours at the Washington County Service Center Woodbury location: Monday and Wednesday between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.; Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, Recycle holiday lights and more at the 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturday between 8 a.m. and noon. Washington County Environmental Center Additional drop boxes are located in Whether you have holiday lights and electrical In addition to holiday lights, many other items Cottage Grove, Forest Lake, Hugo and cords that no longer work or if you’re ready to may be taken to the Environmental Center for Stillwater and have different business make the switch to energy efficient LED lights FREE disposal including: hours. For more information about what for your holiday decorations, there is an easy and medications are accepted and how to pre- z Household hazardous materials pare medications for drop-off, visit www. FREE option for disposal. z Household electronics co.washington.mn.us/meds. The Washington County Environmental Center z Recycling To find more collection sites, visit the offers year-round recycling for holiday lights and extension cords. The Environmental Center z Organics Minnesota Pollution Control Agency web- is located at 4039 Cottage Grove Drive in z Sharps disposal from homes site at pca.state.mn.us/living-green/man- Woodbury. Locations hours of operation are: aging-unwanted-medications. Collection For a detailed list of what is accepted at sites may have limitations for what they Tuesdays: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. the Environmental Center, visit www. accept, so always check the specific site for co.washington.mn.us/envirocenter. Thursdays and Fridays: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. restrictions. Saturdays: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.  GreenTimes A special environmental edition March 2020 Learn about planting for pollinators at April 7 workshop Your yard can BEE the change! Join the At the April 7 workshop, you will learn how to Washington Conservation District at a free design and install a pollinator project, which Save the Date workshop Tuesday, April 7, to learn about how you can plant for pollinators, protect plants are best for bumble bees and other pol- linators, how to support pollinators year round, Curbside water quality and receive funding for projects. The event will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. in and learn about funding opportunities to help make this possible in your own back yard! Recycling Event! the Council Chambers on the second floor of Woodbury City Hall, 8301 Valley Creek Road. There is no cost to attend, but please register in advance at bit.ly/planting4polinators-woodbury. The 10th annual Curbside Recycling Event is Tuesday, April 7, Planting for Pollinators Minnesota has more shoreline than scheduled for May 11-14. Once again, the city will workshop agenda: California, more boats per capita than any partner with licensed trash haulers to provide other state, and at least 450 species of bees. 6-6:15 p.m. – Sign in and Event Welcome curbside recycling of appliances, tires and scrap Your yard can help protect our pollinators and metal at a one-time reduced rate. 6:15-7:15 p.m. – Presentation so many other natural resources. A flyer will be mailed to all households in early 7:15-8 p.m. – Consultations and Questions By introducing native plants to your yard, you April with cost, participation deadlines and The workshop will be recorded and posted on provide precious habitat for our struggling contact information to schedule your pick-up. the city’s YouTube channel at youtube.com/ pollinators while also reducing the amount of Additional information will be available at wood- cityofwoodburymn. water that runs off your property and into the burysustainability.com. Questions should be local body of water. Their beautiful blossoms This workshop is presented in partnership directed to Jennifer McLoughlin, sustainability share delicious, nutritious pollen and nectar with Blue Thumb, City of Woodbury, and the specialist, at jennifer.mcloughlin@woodburymn. with bees and butterflies, while their roots Valley Branch, South Washington, and Ramsey- gov or 651-714-3593. grow deep into the soil, channeling and filter- Washington Metro Watershed Districts. ing stormwater while also storing carbon and reaching water and nutrients. Compost bin and rain barrel sale This spring, Washington County is part- nering with the Recycling Association of Minnesota (RAM) to sell compost bins and rain barrels at a reduced price to Woodbury resi- dents. Rain barrels collect and store rainwater from rooftops that would otherwise be lost to runoff and diverted to storm drains and streams. The rainwater is then reused for other purposes such as watering gar- Photo provided by the Washington Conservation District continued on back Compost bin and rain barrel sale...from front dens. Compost bins store garden refuse and other organic waste in order to produce compost. Washington Washington County residents can purchase a Rain Catcher rain bar- County to host rel for just $59 plus tax and a Home Composter compost bin for $44 plus tax. To receive the discounted price, order online at www. FREE document shredding events co.washington.mn.us/2813/Backyard-Composting. Pre-ordered items will be available for pick up at the Washington County Environmental Center, 4039 Cottage Grove Drive, in Woodbury. Please note that this sale is for Washington County residents only. Proof of residency is required at time of pick up. Items cannot be purchased at the Environmental Center, only picked up. Learn more at www.co.washington.mn.us/2813/Backyard-Composting. Woodbury Water Programs by the Numbers Smart Irrigation Water Efficiency Controller Program Incentive Program 2,100+ Home 55 Projects Residents and businesses are invited to installations since 2016 shred their personal and confidential papers since 2016 during five upcoming shredding events at the Washington County Environmental Center in Woodbury. The events are free. Participants will be allowed to drop off up to six boxes weighing no more than 30 pounds each for shred- ding. All papers will be shredded on site by Shred Right and recycled. Staples and paper 63 million $211,000 clips do not have to be removed. CDs and gallons of water saved funding provided other media will also be accepted for off-site destruction. The Washington County Environmental Center is located at 4039 Cottage Grove Drive in Woodbury. Wednesday, April 15 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. up to Wednesday, June 10 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 1,000 Available $8,000 in 2020 Wednesday, July 29 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. available per project Wednesday, Sept. 23 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Learn more about this cost share For more information about the events, program for commercial properties visit www.co.washington.mn.us (select Learn more at and homeowners associations at “Environmental Center,” then “Shredding woodburymn.gov/smartirrigation woodburymn.gov/commercialirrigation Events”).  City of Woodbury Parks and Recreation Department Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 20–09 July 7, 2020 Re: Seasons Park Stormwater Filter The City of Woodbury is divided into three watershed districts: South Washington, Valley Branch and Ramsey Washington Metro. The South Washington Watershed District (SWWD) covers two thirds of the City and serves as a great partner for water quality and flood control projects. In 2018, the City and SWWD partnered to update lake water management plans for Colby, La, Markgrafs, Wilmes and Powers Lakes. This resulted in a better understanding of the nutrient contributions for lakes within Woodbury. SWWD then led an effort to locate opportunities to implement regional stormwater best management practices, which resulted in the Seasons Park Stormwater Filter being presented today. South Wilmes Lake is impaired with excess phosphorus by 26 pounds per year. The proposed Seasons Park Filter has the potential to remove 5-10 pounds of phosphorus. Although that does not accomplish the goal for Wilmes Lake, the proposed filter provides the greatest cost per pound to remove phosphorus ($1,900/lbs.), whereas other options were two to five times as expensive. The proposed filter is located along the trail on the western side of Seasons Park. The plans include a diversion structure from the farthest west pond to direct water to the filter basin before it returns to the stream. SWWD plans to construct the basin in 2021. The City will take maintenance responsibility of the basin and structures after construction and perimeter vegetation has established; City maintenance staff have been involved through the concept and design phases for this project. The filter material is proposed to be either iron-enhanced sand or spent lime with perimeter plantings to improve the visual aesthetic of the basin. This project is also proposed to include an educational sign for park users to learn about the project. City staff seeks feedback from the Parks and Natural Resources Commission regarding additional outreach to neighbors and park users, as well as direction on potential vegetation management improvements made to the rest of Seasons Park. Respectfully submitted, /s/ Kristin Seaman Environmental Resources Specialist  Seasons Park Stormwater Filter Parks and Natural Resources Commission July 7, 2020  • Project Background Agenda • Design Considerations • Regional Examples • Project Schedule • Questions Lake Management Plans and Regional Analysis South Wilmes Lake is impaired by excess phosphorus: 12 kg/GS (26 lbs./GS), reduction in WS load (32% reduction) The Seasons Park stormwater filter could remove an estimated 5 to 10 lbs./GS of phosphorus that would otherwise enter South Wilmes Lake.* *The primary benefit of this project is to South Wilmes Lake given the proximity of the area’s inflow point to North Wilmes Lake’s outlet to South Wilmes Lake. Design Considerations • Site overview • Flow diversion and trail • Filter material and aesthetics • Educational signage  Seasons Parkway Radio Drive Regional Examples Newly installed Spent Lime Filter in Willow Pond, Roseville Spent Lime Filter Material Wakefield Treatment Cell, Ramsey Washington Metro Watershed District Iron Enhanced Sand Filter Educational Signage Educational Signage Project August-September 2020: Schedule Finalize Plans October: Opportunity for public engagement Spring 2021: Construction Questions? Kristin Seaman Kristin.seaman@woodburymn.gov Kallie Doeden Kdoeden@barr.com  City of Woodbury Parks and Recreation Department Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 20–10 July 7, 2020 The Parks and Recreation Department continues to adjust to the Governor’s Executive Orders, and guidelines presented by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), and Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Eagle Valley Golf Course – Dan Moris We are celebrating a solid spring golf season. Eagle Valley Golf Course hosted 7,277 rounds of golf in the month of June. That is the best month since 2002. For a comparison, June of 2019, was a great month with 6,984 rounds. We hosted about 5,200 rounds in May (10 and 12-minute tee times), as compared to 5,000 rounds in May 2019, (traditional 8-minute tee times).  8-minute tee times started on June 1  Full food and beverage service, with limited seating on the patio and clubhouse  Banquet space rentals will follow the guidelines as soon as possible, for now, it is being utilized for foodservice seating overflow  Single cart riders are proving problematic, and staff is adjusting the process to accommodate that restriction better, ensuring carts are available for those who reserve them. HealthEast Sports Center (HSC) – Dave Black Ice (east rink) and field house rentals are in progress. Staff prepared the west rink for opening July 1, to allow for additional rental groups.  The building remains closed to general public access  Rental income for July is on target with July 2019  Tournament and events scheduled each weekend July 10 through August 30, with limited food truck services on the plaza  Hours of operation increased July 6: o Monday-Thursday 6 a.m.-11 p.m. o Friday through Sunday 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. Recreation Division – Reed Smidt Woodbury Magazine announced that Woodbury Parks and Recreation was voted Best Place for Kids Activities for 2020, with HealthEast Sports Center as a runner-up. This is the third year in a row that the department has won this Reader’s Choice award. We are excited that the guidelines will allow for some modified programming this summer.  Some of our full-time recreation staff are re-allocated in part or total to supporting Eagle Valley maintenance and operations  The following programming will be offered as registrations support: Started in June  Music Together online  Rhythm Kids online  Art Classes  Soccer Shots  Mayor Arts and Music online  Pickleball Club  Golf Leagues (men’s & women’s)  Skateboard Camp  Mountain Bike Lessons Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 20–10 July 7, 2020 Page 2 of 3 Starting in July or August  Youth Sport Camps  Yard Games League  Mountain bike lessons  Youth Tennis  Jr. Golf League  Nature in the Park  Driver improvement  Paddle Boarding  Group Golf Lessons  Couples Golf Nights  Adult Pickleball Lessons  Adult Tennis Lessons  Miracle League  Tiny -Tot Triathlon &  Adult Softball  Leaders in Training Duathlon  Storytime w/Library  Geocaching Adventure  Movies in the Park  Youth & Preschool Playground Programs Canceled  Adult/Senior programs at Central Park  Some Specialty Camps  Puppet Wagon  PeeWee Sports  Field Trips (youth and adult)  Splash Pad Storytime  Youth Volleyball Camp  Pop-up events  Ice Skating Lessons  Summer Adult Soccer League  Camp Carver  Adult Kickball League  Safety Camp & Half Pint Safety Camp  Carver Lake Campout  Performances in the Park  4th of July  Coin Carnival Other facilities/projects  Splash Pad - Opened June 17, in coordination with a water update.  Carver Lake Beach - If staff capacity and guidelines allow, we will look to open the beach in July. The requirements for maintaining that area to the specifications, along with the inability to monitor required social distancing with the limited Parks Maintenance and Recreation staff, will be challenging.  Park buildings and shelters o Available for rent, following modified occupancy. o Most of the building restrooms are open for public use with daily cleaning. Ojibway opened for programming in July with staff present for a portion of the day.  Athletic fields are open and utilized as activities can conform to guidelines.  Playgrounds remain open with caution; we are not able to clean those amenities.  Carver Lake Park Bike Park Playground opened Thursday, June 11. Some minor work still to be done, and enhancements to the parking will be conducted with the main parking lot reconstruction in early fall. Organized Youth and Adult Athletics: Modified practices and activities are being offered. League games were allowed to start on Wednesday, June 24. Central Park – Polly Blom Staff is working to create the COVID re-open/preparedness plan. The facility will open in phases as we are starting to allow rentals, host programming, and in cooperation with the Library needs.  Library tentative opening between July 1st and 6th with modified hours Monday-Friday  Farmers Market, Sundays, June 7-October 25 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.  Joint Storytime will be hosted weekly on the patio  Restrict access to lower level unless a renter is utilizing the space Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 20–10 July 7, 2020 Page 3 of 3  YMCA opened to members on June 16, with limited and modified operations. At this time, we will not be opening the doors from Y to Central Park. Once the Library and Central Park open to free- flowing public, those doors will open.  YMCA proposed hours of operation o Monday-Friday 6 a.m.-8 p.m. o Saturday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. o Sunday CLOSED  Lookout Ridge Indoor Playground will not open to the public until this fall at the earliest. This decision is consistent with most municipal indoor play structures around the metro.  Senior Programming will be delayed until later this fall due to the special attention needed to program for this demographic. Other The Woodbury Days Council announced the cancellation of Woodbury Days 2020. Carver Lake Beach will remain closed for the summer. Respectfully submitted, /s/ Michelle Okada Parks and Recreation Director