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01/11/2011 - City Council SpecialAGENDA SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING TUESDAY, JANUARY 11, 2011 5:30 P.M. EAGAN ROOM I. ROLL CALL AND ADOPTION OF AGENDA II. VISITORS TO BE HEARD e ) III. JOINT MEETING WITH EAGAN'S LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION P r J IV. OPPORTUNITY CITY UPDATE P. aa V. REVIEW TRAIL CONNECTION POLICY VI. OTHER BUSINESS VII. ADJOURN Special City Council Workshop January 11, 2011 III. JOINT MEETING WITH EAGAN'S LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION ACTION TO BE CONSIDERED: No formal action is needed. Eagan's Legislative delegation has been invited to the workshop to dialogue with the Council regarding Legislative issues of importance during the 2011 session. FACTS: • The City of Eagan is represented by State Senators Ted Daley, District 38 and Jim Metzen, District 39, along with State Representatives Rick Hanson, District 39A; Diane Anderson, District 38A; and Doug Wardlow, District 38B. • It is the tradition of the City Council to meet with the Legislative delegation in the beginning of each year prior to the start of the legislative session. • In addition to the many legislative priorities the City of Eagan supports through its membership with the LMC, MLC, and Metro Cities, the enclosed list of legislative priorities and positions has been established to serve as discussion guide. This list is not intended to be comprehensive of every legislative issue important to the City; however, it does represent the more critical issues facing the City. • The enclosed legislative priorities were distributed to the City Council in the December 29 Additional Information memo to seek feedback from the City Council on any changes or additions. Since sending those priorities to the Council, two County -wide initiatives (election reform and the statewide health improvement program (SHIP)) were removed from the document as formal City priorities given that the County's legislative platform already represents these two issues. However, the City Council is welcome to raise either issue with the legislative delegation if so desired. ATTACHMENTS: • Enclosed on page is a copy of the letter that was sent to each member of Eagan's legislative delegation (via mail and e- mail), inviting them to attend the January 11 meeting. • Enclosed on pages 3 through is the City of Eagan's 2011 Legislative Priorities and Positions handout, intended to assist t e Council as a discussion tool with the Legislators. 1 Mike Maguire Mayor Paul Bakken Cyndee Fields Gary Hansen Meg Tilley Council Members Thomas Hedges City Administrator Municipal Center 3830 Pilot Knob Road Eagan, MN 55122 -1810 651.675.5000 phone 651.675.5012 fax 651.454.8535 TDD Maintenance Facility 3501 Coachman Point Eagan, MN 55122 651.675.5300 phone 651.675.5360 fax 651.454.8535 TDD www.cityofeagan.com The Lone Oak Tree The symbol of strength and growth in our community. City of Eagan December 17, 2010 State Representative Doug Wardlow 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155 Dear Representative Wardlow: On behalf of the Eagan City Council, you are cordially invited to attend the January 11, 2011 City Council workshop, at.which the Council would like to dialogue with you and your fellow Eagan legislative delegation members about the issues and priorities the City has for the upcoming legislative session. The City Council always appreciates the opportunity to meet with the delegation each year at the beginning of the session, and hopes that you will be able to join them at the January 11 meeting, which will begin at 5:30 p.m. in the Eagan Room (located on the second floor of City Hall). In order that we know who will be able to attend the Council workshop on January 11, please RSVP to Mira Broyles, Administrative Secretary/Deputy Clerk, at (651)675 -5013 or mbroyles @cityofeagan.com. Also, if you have any questions prior to the start of the session regarding issues of importance to the City, please feel free to contact me at 651/675-5007. Sincerely, Thomas L. Hedges ` City Administrator City of Cap The following requests and positions represent the Legislative priorities for the City of Eagan during the 2011 Legislative Session. In order not to duplicate what has already been provided to our Legislators, this list does not include every position on the issues that have already been addressed through policy documents set forth by the League of Minnesota Cities (LMC), Metro Cities (formerly AMM), or the Municipal Legislative Commission (MLC). The City of Eagan respectfully requests the support of our Legislative delegation on the following initiatives: State Budget and Impact on the City of Eagan • Eagan has incorporated the unallotment of the estimated 2011 Market Value Homestead Credit (MVHC) into its 2011 budget, tax levy, and budget projections for future years. The Legislature must recognize the pressure the loss of MVHC places on the local tax levy and that City services, including public safety, will likely be impacted by reductions in MVHC and other State actions that shift costs and /or reduce revenues. • Eagan has maintained low property taxes and has been fiscally prudent for decades, and therefore strongly opposes any measure that would look to address continuing State deficits by taking money from cities' cash flow account for operations. • If the State further reduces LGA or MVHC from cities, then cities should continue to be given the authority to levy back lost aid. • Eagan maintains its long -held opposition to State imposed levy limits, as levies are an issue of local control, best addressed by the elected City Council. Transportation City of Eagan 2011 Legislative Priorities and Positions Secure funding sources to expand and maintain Eagan's transportation infrastructure. • Since 2000, the City of Eagan has spent $3.6 million of local funds on State Highway improvements and $6.3 million of local funds on County Road improvements, for a total of $9.9 million that has been diverted away from the City's local street needs. • The City of Eagan has a projected deficit of $42.1 million over the next 20 years for its Transportation Infrastructure Needs Analysis (TINA). • Dakota County, Inver Grove Heights and Eagan are financing the Regional Roadway System Visioning Study to identify future improvements to the Northeast Eagan/Northwest Inver Grove Heights area's transportation system. The study also involves the cities of Mendota Heights and Sunfish Lake, as well as the Met Council and MnDOT, due to the regional significance of the needed transportation enhancements. • The study concurs with components of the TINA, and also supports identified additions to the list of transportation needs in the TINA, including a new interchange at Co. Rd. 63 (Argental Trail /Delaware Avenue) and I -494. 3 Secure Funding for Proposed Ring Road • The Ring Road would help separate local traffic from the regional traffic thereby providing relief to the intersection of Yankee Doodle Road (Co. Rd. 28) and Pilot Knob Road (Co. Rd. 31), which is the 2 highest county road traffic volume intersection. • The Northwood Parkway Overpass was completed in 2008 at a cost of $4.4 million of local funds, and the Duckwood Drive Overpass is estimated to cost $5.6 million, which is beyond the means of a local agency to be able to fund for a regional improvement. • Approximately $430,000 of the $1 million in Federal funding appropriated to the project has been used to design the Northwood Parkway Overpass. The remaining funds have been applied to the design costs of the Duckwood Drive Overpass. • The Council recently authorized firm of SRF Consulting Group has designed the plans and specifications for the Duckwood Drive Overpass and is currently seeking permit approval from MnDOT. City staff is also negotiating the acquisition of the necessary right -of -way for this improvement, which has been officially mapped. Secure Funding for the continued phased improvements for the Cedar Ave Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) improvements. • Priority Access improvements are needed to /from the recently completed Cedar Grove Transit Station and the TH 77 expressway. Land Use Support Legislation to Reauthorize Cities to Grant Variances • In the Krummenacher case, the Supreme Court decision substantially limited local government authority to grant zoning variances on the basis of the enabling statute language defining a hardship as only occurring when there can be no other use of the property without the variance. In its opinion, the Court left open the possibility that the tool could be reauthorized under different language to better align with its practical application. • The City of Eagan has granted variances sparingly, but views them as a useful tool to permit and encourage continued investment and reinvestment by property owners within the community, provided the deviation from standard would not substantially alter the nature of the property or the neighborhood. • The League of Minnesota Cities and other groups are cooperating in the preparation of draft language for a bill and will be seeking authors to file it in the upcoming session. The City of Eagan supports efforts to reestablish City authority to consider the granting of variances for the reason above. Consider Modifications for TIF Redevelopment Districts to Offset Affects of the Current Development Economy • The League of Minnesota Cities has adopted a number of Legislative Policies related to modifications of tax increment financing, which the City supports. • In particular, the City of Eagan would support the extension of the sunset provision for the use of TIF economic development districts to create construction jobs by permitting the tool to be applied to uses that are not traditionally eligible under such districts, including office, retail and housing projects. • The Cedar Grove Redevelopment District faces many of the same development market challenges as other redevelopment districts in the state. The City is currently exploring whether to submit a request for special legislation for the Cedar Grove District during this session. However, if there are bills proposed for other districts that address issues similar to those at Cedar Grove, the City may request that the Cedar Grove District be added to the legislation. Support TIF for Businesses Producing IT Products • Current TIF law limits the establishment of Economic Development Districts to those situations that support the expansion of businesses and creation of jobs that manufacture a physical product. • An increasing number of businesses in Minnesota are creating software and on -line publications. The ability of Minnesota cities to support the location and expansion of such businesses will be vital to the state's competitiveness in current and future economies. • Eagan's past experience with Thomson West's proposed expansion illustrated the point. While it was clear that the firm's expansion project would create substantial property tax base and a large number of head of household jobs, current TIF law did not recognize it as being the equivalent of manufacturing, which would have permitted the City to consider the formation of an economic development TIF district to support the project. • Instead, the City needed to pursue special legislation to request permission to apply the statute to Thomson. While not all information businesses create products comparable to manufactured goods, state law should be amended to create criteria under which production of information technology products may be defined as manufacturing for TIF purposes. Oppose Industry Efforts to Oversee Building Codes • The Minnesota Department of Commerce uses an effective system to consider the implementation of international building codes and amendments of codes specific to the Minnesota environment and economy. The Code adoption process provides ample opportunity for input from interested parties including the construction industry, building officials and the general public. • Past legislative efforts by the industry to create "code councils" made up of industry representatives and intended to control the Code adoption process would tilt the process away from the public interest and toward industry interests rather than balancing those interests as the current system does. In the past, industry representatives have also proposed authorizing private inspectors, hired by property owners or contractors to take the place of the unbiased inspections by municipal inspectors. The City opposes these efforts. Provide Additional Tools to Minimize Impacts of Foreclosures • Like all cities in Minnesota and around the country, the City of Eagan is focusing efforts on monitoring vacant and foreclosed properties and taking steps to minimize the impacts of vacancies on the properties themselves and their neighborhoods. • Cities will continue to need to use traditional and innovative tools to address this issue. In 2008, Legislation was enacted that requires private utility companies to share information regarding gas and electric shut offs with local units of government to aid in efforts to identify vacant or uninhabitable properties. Cities use this information as part of their database for and monitoring those properties for maintenance issues and to minimize vandalism and theft. • To build on the value of the utility shut off notice requirement, the City would also support legislation that would authorize water shut offs to properties whenever cities receive information from other utility companies that would suggest that the home is not heated. Currently cities may not shut off water service to unheated or vacant homes unless the City utility account is delinquent or the owner of record requests /consents to it. This is despite the fact that an unheated home is not safe for occupancy under the building code. • In addition, the City would support similar legislation that would obligate the owner of a property that is in foreclosure or vacant for any reason to provide contact information to the City that would permit prompt attention to matters that arise through property monitoring programs, including the need to secure buildings, the need to keep them in good repair during vacancies, the need to remove trash and maintain yards, etc. Broadband • Implementing Additional State Task Force Recommendations: Last year, the Legislature adopted and the Governor signed legislation to adopt state speed and ubiquitous service goals by 2015, and to create a Broadband Advisory Council, under the Department of Commerce, to annually monitor progress. But there were many other important recommendations for the security and redundancy of broadband networks within the state (of vital importance to industry) that remain untouched. There are ongoing consumer and business issues with widespread outages. Continuously available IP connections that support, at a minimum, two way interactive video applications, are important to employers and small businesses. Mr. Rick King of Thomson Reuters (Former Task Force Chair) and Eagan Communications Director Tom Garrison, both would be happy to be resources. While supportive of the statewide goals, it should be noted, however, that there is no comparative International benchmark for the speed goals, and that the statewide standard does virtually nothing to encourage next generation broadband deployment in Eagan and Dakota County. Lastly, it should be noted that cities are looking for more flexibility to partner with providers (existing or new) to deploy next generation broadband, but existing law can be a barrier. to either area served or a fair process to partner that won't end up in lengthy & expensive lawsuits. • Consider Sales Tax Exemption: The City of Eagan would be supportive of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce 2011 recommendation for a change in fiscal policy that would provide for a sales tax exemption for major data centers. We're aware of several other states with a much more aggressive strategy to court next generation broadband and data centers. • Mapping: The Legislature made great progress with the first statewide broadband maps, but information must continually be updated to be of use, and current data to the census block level per provider is not disclosable, even though all providers are using the public rights of way. • New Form of Limited Liability Corporations: Eagan would be supportive of new organizational, partnership and legal structures to encourage broadband partnerships. In 2009, Rep. Obermueller successfully carried a bill for us to change the land use of a parcel of land to allow a broadband co- location facility to be built in Eagan. As we look at organization structures, there is a low- profit limited liability company (L3C) corporate registration not allowed in Minnesota, but available in seven other states that appears to be advantageous, and not just for broadband partnerships. Cable TV & Franchising • Eagan is concerned about indications that CenturyLink's merger with Qwest may provide support for renewed consideration of statewide video franchising bill. A 2009 study authorized by the Legislature concluded that there was no improvement in competition among video service providers or cost savings to consumers where such measures have been put in place in other states. Earlier versions of this legislation, like H.F. No. 2396, contained no criteria on which an application could be rejected or denied by the MPUC. Moreover, the bill contained no enforcement authority for the MPUC once a certificate is granted. With a statewide franchise, there is no local accountability, nor staff to take complaints about the franchisee's performance, as there is now. Agenda Information Memo Eagan City Council Workshop January 11, 2011 IV. UPDATE REGARDING RCM/ULI OPPORTUNITY CITY STUDY PROJECT DIRECTION TO BE CONSIDERED: To receive a presentation regarding the draft Eagan Housing Audit, Site Evaluation Panel Report and next steps in the study process and to provide feedback and direction for the Final Summary Report. FACTS: • The Urban Land Institute and Regional Council of Mayors developed the Opportunity Cities Program as a tool for cities interested in receiving assistance in pursuing their goal of supporting a full range of housing choices in suburban cities for a stronger, more prosperous region. The City of Eagan responded to the invitation to participate in the program and, at its meeting of March 16, 2010, the City Council approved an agreement to move forward with the project. • The Opportunity Cities project team consists of Cathy Bennett of Bennett Community Consulting, Dennis Welsch, the former Community Development Director for the Cities of Roseville and Apple Valley and John Carpenter of Excensus. In consideration of the role the Dakota County CDA plays in coordinating CDBG and other HUD housing programs for Dakota County cities, Dan Rogness of the CDA staff is also participating with City staff and the project team. • The City Council received an update regarding Community Change Data at its workshop meeting of September 14, 2010. Since that meeting, the project team developed the Housing Audit information, facilitated the ULI Site Evaluation Panel that took a closer look at the Central Commons, Cliff Road Commons and Cedar Grove Commons Special Areas and developed the Site Evaluation Report. These documents were overviewed by the Advisory Planning Commission at its workshop on December 16`" and the APC's input is incorporated in the documents being presented at Tuesday's meeting. • Ms. Bennett will lead the presentation on Tuesday evening. She will be asking for City Council comments and direction on the current drafts of the Housing Audit and Site Evaluation Panel Reports. This input will be incorporated in the final reports that will be compiled with the other data reviewed to date to be submitted and considered by the City Council at an upcoming meeting. ATTACHMENTS: • Project Overview on pages E through 1) • Housing Audit Report on pages 13 throu 4 • Site Evaluation Panel Report on pages 17 through/ Minnesota Regional Council of ayors Housing Initiative Opportunity City Program Community Site Principles The Community Site Principles will support a full range of housing choices based upon best practices to maximize land use efficiency and connecting housing with jobs and transportation networks. An opportunity site that includes some or all of the following principles and aligns with the city's broader community -wide strategy provides economic benefits and long term sustainability. 1. Creates housing opportunities and choice • mixed housing types • mixed incomes • mixed uses 2. Creates a positive community image • design guidelines • integrates within the existing community • complements city's long range comprehensive plan 3. Fosters a sense of place • distinct and attractive • community gathering spaces within site and /or within walking distance • front doors to the street • homes are oriented with eyes on public greens and /or "play" spaces • buildings directed away from hard edges (freeways and industrial uses) • integrated into and directed toward existing neighborhood Sources: The above principles were created through the review of site and community building attributes identified by the following professional organizations: Urban Land Institute, Ahwahnee Principles, Smart Growth Network, Green Communities Network, Creating Quality Places, Metropolitan Council Livable Communities. Page 1 4. Matches housing and jobs; both existing and future jobs • price points (rent /purchase price) are affordable for workers in the community • tie housing types, prices and location to jobs in retail, commercial and industrial sectors of the city 5. Creates or links to walkable neighborhoods • connection to pathways and /or sidewalks • access to essential services such as convenience / food stores, parks /open space and recreational areas with a convenient and comfortable 5 to 10 minute walk (standard guideline of % to % mile distance) • housing, retail, office, restaurant, daycare, medical • civic, educational, social and recreational uses (examples: community centers, social services entities, schools and parks /sporting centers) 9 6. Provides access to nearby transit or transportation choices that are convenient and a comfortable 5 to 10 minute walk or 30 minutes bike (standard guideline is '4, 1/2 mile distance for walking and 2 -5 mile for biking) 7. Creates a mix of land uses within the site or within a walkable distance of the site that includes: Sources: The above principles were created through the review of site and community building attributes identified by the following professional organizations: Urban Land Institute, Ahwahnee Principles, Smart Growth Network, Green Communities Network, Creating Quality Places, Metropolitan Council Livable Communities. Page 2 8. Encourages compact building design and efficient use of infrastructure to support long term sustainability • density that allows project to be financially feasible • site that has access to existing infrastructure — roads, water, sewers • maximizes green /open space • provides opportunities for multi - purpose \multi -use infrastructure such as storm water serving as greenway and /or water amenity • locate new developments near natural amenities with flexible buffers based on community surface water management and other environmental protection plans for wetlands, critical slope areas and /or land identified as habitat for a threatened or endangered species 9. Ensure the projects long term success and marketability through the review of: • financial feasibility — cost of land, rents, sale prices, lease rates, permitting time and cost • Demographic market evaluation — who will live and shop there, are the uses already in the market? Sources: The above principles were created through the review of site and community building attributes identified by the following professional organizations: Urban Land Institute, Ahwahnee Principles, Smart Growth Network, Green Communities Network, Creating Quality Places, Metropolitan Council Livable Communities. /DI i0. Turnover 6 Retention - OwnenOccupled Nom none., Page 3 • ire* ere 8. Encourages compact building design and efficient use of infrastructure to support long term sustainability • density that allows project to be financially feasible • site that has access to existing infrastructure — roads, water, sewers • maximizes green /open space • provides opportunities for multi - purpose \multi -use infrastructure such as storm water serving as greenway and /or water amenity • locate new developments near natural amenities with flexible buffers based on community surface water management and other environmental protection plans for wetlands, critical slope areas and /or land identified as habitat for a threatened or endangered species 9. Ensure the projects long term success and marketability through the review of: • financial feasibility — cost of land, rents, sale prices, lease rates, permitting time and cost • Demographic market evaluation — who will live and shop there, are the uses already in the market? Sources: The above principles were created through the review of site and community building attributes identified by the following professional organizations: Urban Land Institute, Ahwahnee Principles, Smart Growth Network, Green Communities Network, Creating Quality Places, Metropolitan Council Livable Communities. /DI i0. Turnover 6 Retention - OwnenOccupled Nom none., Page 3 10. Provides energy efficiency and /or green building techniques • site allows building orientation with the greatest potential for passive solar heating and cooling and maximization of day lighting • use of green materials • storm water on site that serves as an amenity • minimize impervious surfaces 11. Encourages community and stakeholder collaboration • planning process that includes positive public participation • guidance and input from school districts For more information contact: Cathy Bennett, ULI MN /RCM Housing Initiative Bennett Community Consulting 612.670.8147 cathycbennettPfrontiernet.net Caren Dewar, Executive Director ULI Minnesota 612.759.1016 caren.dewar@uli.org Sources: The above principles were created through the review of site and community building attributes identified by the following professional organizations: Urban Land Institute, Ahwahnee Principles, Smart Growth Network, Green Communities Network, Creating Quality Places, Metropolitan Council Livable Communities. Page 4 uses. ULI MN /Regional Council of Mayors Opportunity City Program - Housing Audit Eagan Draft Recommendations Tools & Strategies in Support of a Full Range of Housing Choices The Opportunity City Program provides technical assistance, tools and strategies to support a full range of housing choices - a diverse mix of housing types and prices in connected livable communities. The City of Eagan was selected to participate in the program in 2010 which includes a housing audit, summary of the city's community change information, review of city goals, policies and community factors and the discussion and dialogue generated by the policy leaders in the City of Eagan. The recommendations are a result of the ULI MN /Regional Council of Mayors Opportunity City Program process. Key observations emerged through the Opportunity City process. • The loss of young households as they move. • The lack of turnover of aging adults. • A lack of connectivity and walkability created by suburban street patterns and segregated land These factors contribute to aging in place, loss of families and challenges in attracting the younger age cohort necessary to support the schools, retail and city services. Increasing the number of options for both young households who want to live in the city and older adults who want to move from their single - family homes but stay in the city will be important. City leadership can prioritize its policies related to future land use and housing programs that help to create more connectivity and provide additional options and opportunities related to renovation and redevelopment to address these issues. There is no quick fix. The recommendations below should be considered as options to include within the City's housing and development tool box. Enhance neighborhood preservation strategies. (Address aging of housing stock & increasing resident engagement in community decisions) City leaders have a variety of public tools and strategies they can use to determine their participation in neighborhood preservation. Continuing to be part of the solution and helping to ensure that property is maintained takes strong local leadership and vision. Providing a wide range of strategies that balance renovation, maintenance and redevelopment of the existing housing stock is important. Continue to market DCCDA loan programs for home renovations. Evaluate need to create a City specific program that targets households who have income above the maximum allowed for use of the County and State programs. Targets could include 120% Area Median Income, home value and age thresholds — Roseville Renovation Program model. DRAFT - January 4, 2011 Page 1 is Consider establishing a rental licensing or registration program to maintain quality in rental housing and provide a mechanism for engaging the rental community– landlords and tenants. Bloomington Rental Licensing Program or Roseville Rental Registration models. - Consider long term strategy and benefits of a point of sale type program - St. Louis Park Program model. Consider the cost and benefits of designating established neighborhoods within the City to provide an increased sense of place, support for neighborhood initiatives and a way for the city to more actively engage residents in land use, renovation, safety and service issues. Continue to consider use and need for Housing Improvement Area tool to help finance the renovation of townhome and condominium complexes. Be proactive in addressing aging in place. Like most of the metropolitan region, Eagan is beginning to see evidence that residents are aging and they are remaining in their homes longer; they are "aging in place." Retention of households —even as they age —is a benefit for the city; it helps keep the social fabric and volunteer base of the community vibrant. However, losing younger households as they grow and move away and not having options that older adults desire to move into can stifle home values and shift public and private sector service and retail needs. Local leaders can provide policies and tools that create opportunities for all resident life cycles and maintain a vibrant community that keeps residents safe while maintaining healthy levels of household turnover (more than 4 %) and resident retention (higher than 20 %). Evaluate options for allowing accessory dwelling units within existing single family neighborhoods to provide options for families to care for aging parents within the home or on the same lot. (Refer to ULI MN research and sample ordinances). Identify NORC (naturally occurring retirement communities) neighborhoods – through targeted demographic mapping of neighborhoods with at least 60% head of households over age of 55 - expand on Excensus Community Change data - to help plan for transportation and other service geared toward seniors. Build on recommendations from the Design for a Lifetime Initiative. o Expand upon work by conducting an Aging in Place survey of resident needs. Expand support for DARTS - Household Services. Utilize housing service providers to stimulate /incentivize Universal Design features in renovations for those over age 55. DRAFT - January 4, 2011 Page 2 1� Attract and retain young households. Efforts to provide opportunities for young households in the City are important to providing a full range of housing choices and to regenerate neighborhoods stabilize school enrollment and keep commercial services and retail businesses viable. National statistics indicate that future households will demand more compact and connected communities. The City of Eagan has several opportunities to develop land that includes options for young professionals and growing families in connected livable communities. The City can provide resources with a specific focus on retaining and increasing the younger resident population. Market availability of homes and /or renovation programs to young households by partnering with the school districts & faith -based organizations. Invest in the Senior Housing Regeneration Program — market to older households who wish to sell their home — renovate and resell to young households and /or first time homebuyers — Ramsey County model. Evaluate options for allowing assessory dwelling units within existing single family neighborhoods to provide options for older children to live with parents but retain independence — within existing home or on the same lot. Invite non - profit community development agencies to become community partners and develop new workforce housing for young households. Include new lifestyle rental within key special area plans. Target young professionals who are not ready to purchase a single family home but want condo -type environment with amenities within the complex. This type of housing helps to create a ready market by attracting and retaining future buyers of single family homes and users of parks and services. Modify land use codes to allow them to be less prescriptive and more flexible to meet the needs of the target market at that time and support architectural creativity. Increase connectivity through new housing strategies and support of transit investments. While the city is nearly fully developed, there are opportunities through redevelopment and development of vacant land to ensure that a full range of housing options can be built within the city in connected, livable communities. In addition, federal transportation, housing and environmental policies have shifted to support strong, sustainable communities by connecting housing to jobs, fostering local innovation, and helping to build a clean energy economy. In order to support this mission it is important that not only federal but state, county and local housing and transportation investments are coordinated with local land use decisions. The coordination will result in reduced transportation costs for families, improved housing affordability, energy saving, and increased access to housing and employment opportunities. DRAFT - January 4, 2011 Page 3 I LF Require a mix of housing options — type, style, size and price — within Tax Increment Financing Policy and require a minimum of 20% of new housing to be affordable to working families. Maintain and enhance density for housing that is connected to jobs, transportation options, community amenities — parks, open space, shopping & schools. Support the expansion and availability of broadband capacity within all residential areas and require connectivity when housing projects are being built. Use ULI MN Community Site Principles within the review of master plan developments and to respond to development proposal that include housing. The Community Site Principles support connectivity in land uses, street patterns and - Provide a full range of housing choices within all new housing developments. Support a mix of options for young professionals connected to employment area, workforce housing with a range of affordability options and housing for seniors and empty- nesters. Adopt Complete Streets Ordinance that requires new and redeveloped street patterns to support connectivity, walkability and bikability. Work with employers and Chambers of Commerce to embrace the value of employees who live close to work. o Evaluate opportunity to partner with key employers to support a Live Where you Work housing loan program. — St. Louis Park model Encourage residents to use available transit and entice retail and professional services companies to locate near park & ride and /or BRT locations. o 83% of Eagan working residents - commute to work with 40% of those commuting to Hennepin County, 17% Ramsey and 15% within Dakota County o Designate transit stations as community assets and amenities o Encouraging higher density and a range of housing choices within walking and biking distance to transit stations and allows for vibrant and flexible commercial districts. Encourage Dakota County to modify county road design to support a more urban setting that connects land uses and transportation decisions allowing for more walkability and connectivity to people rather than vehicles. Evaluate local street design to connect cul -de -sac neighborhoods, increase mixture of land uses (commercial, civic, recreational and residential) and allow more traditional neighborhood development; increasing traffic flow, reducing travel time and creating a broader sense of community. o More and more recent national statistics conclude that there is a higher public cost in the maintenance of cul -de -sacs compared to a typical street grid pattern and that there is a decrease in connectivity of the residents to the broader community. • According to "Safe Routes to Schools" guide, increasing connectivity of streets, paths and sidewalks reduces travel distances and makes it easier for pedestrians and bicyclists DRAFT - January 4, 2011 Page 4 to access destinations. Adding "connector paths" within cul -de -sac neighborhoods can increase walkability and provide additional travel options. • According to John Wasik, author of The Cul -de- Sac Syndrome: Turning Around the Unsustainable American Dream. "A cul -de -sac is basically a big, long driveway that ends at your house. It's not very efficient from a connectivity standpoint." • A study by the Charlotte, N.C., Department of Transportation found they decrease efficiency and increase costs of fire departments. ■ A study by the University of Connecticut's Center for Transportation and Urban Planning found cul -de -sacs had more auto accidents because they must exit onto much larger, heavily traveled arterial road. • According to a Milwaukee Magazine November 2010 article, "A plow can generally clear six to eight traditional streets in the time it takes to deal with one cul -de -sac, which is a 90 -foot asphalt circle (on average) comprised of hazards seen and unseen. - Support annual levy contribution. l(o Grid street networks create more direct routes and a Continue to work cooperatively with Dakota County Community Development Agency (DC -CDA) The City of Eagan and all of Dakota County cities are fortunate to have the housing renovation, purchase assistance and affordable options provided by the Dakota County Community Development Agency. The wide range of programs and commitment to develop of a wide range of housing options is a benefit to the cities and residents within the county. Partner on new affordable housing developments that meet city goals and objective to provide a full range of housing options in the City. Hold annual housing forum between city and county policy leaders - engage community in the discussion of housing needs. DRAFT - January 4, 2011 Page 5 E e4 L 6 O L a. co — w o 'a u C) w d z .,a _ v) c m c to t Ca o 2 ali a> O w vi L o6 O co • _ 2 m 73 C O C — th co N 0 _w z 2 J m 17 • > c O Q a) N a) a) C L c 0 vi � Q ,p U a) _ fA L 1 ii C Ur E T .- O > « _ N ` O N O 0 C 0 L 2 L O Q) " a = O(V c c N N U c co > EU c coo X-a (0 3 0 (n a) co o) N co C J N L 0) ° N ) a) (o N c - o .. D X _ L L -c' a) c C V 0 H a) 'O 0 V. . 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La _ c k \ 0 a) c > k� 73 I- 0 0- 2 s > § £ 4 @ c = a . co- o 0 k 2 _ / U ■ TO t o m CU > @ * U « c 13 f as — al $ 2 - u) > - 2 2 @ .c o 0 / \ ° ° § 2 7 E / « - c o E @ 0 3 .c o .c © • \ / m Cr 2 1 2 § z 2 Iii t 0) E o -J 2 m D- 2 2 2 >, 0)J a 2 2 § s @ E 8 2 0 2 ° \ £ E k k 2 c CO 0) > as •a) R -0 » . ■ k eL = @ 2 - 0 E § x 2 2 2 E I ■ k 2 0 ,o c \&7 Y % ?2� Agenda Memo January 11, 2011 Special City Council Meeting V. TRAIL CONNECTION POLICY UPDATE — CITY OF EAGAN ACTION TO BE CONSIDERED: To receive a presentation and to provide staff with input and direction regarding the potential use of this type of tool for future private property improvement activities. FACTS: ➢ City Engineering and Planning staff worked together on a grant proposal to create a program intended to support enhanced bike and pedestrian connections to existing retail service areas within the City of Eagan. ➢ On 3- 16 -10, the City Council approved a contract with Dakota County awarding the City of Eagan $16,000 for the purposes of creating a bike /pedestrian connection program within retail service areas, authorize the Mayor to execute the agreement and add a budget adjustment in the Department 21 (Engineering) 2010 budget. ➢ The grant opportunity was provided by a combination of funding from the State Health Improvement Program (SHIP) and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, via a contract with Dakota County. ➢ While the City's public trail network is well developed, moving bikers and pedestrians from the public trail into a shopping or service area almost exclusively requires those users to interact or compete with motorized traffic within parking areas and drive aisles. ➢ Specifically, the goal was to create a framework to review and rank privately proposed bike /pedestrian access in and around retail service areas. The City presently has no means in which to obtain possible funding, but staff believes the program is appropriate to establish now for such future opportunities. ➢ At this point, there is no commitment of staff time or funding but there may be opportunities in the future to facilitate funding requests through grant programs with Dakota County, BCBS, SHIP or other sources. Attachments (2) PowerPoint slides on page through . Draft framework on pages through 3 . as fineROC-RN PT x Introduction x Objective x Private/Public Partnership x Voluntary Participation x Design/Construction Standards •x Permitting x Funding x Administration 1/7/2011 1NTRRRRPTIRN x Eagan has a substantial trail system x Missing segments to commercial & higher density residential properties + Completion will increase trail usage X Reduce vehicle emissions and traffic congestio x Create a healthier lifestyle 14 The development of a policy to create a mechanism for private property /busine x Implement internal site circulation of nso vehicular traffic x Provide connections to an ,existing tail E x C onstruct in accord w/ City & ADA7sta x Re ceive funding assistanc' a ft a�- 1/7/2011 2 mtr x Establish and understand benefits x Connect to existing public trails x Encourage property owners to improve • circulation and connections Assist review of internal improvenien, , Prioritize projects for funding options • YRI-PTIT13-Y-PRTIPIreilIRN x Business/Property Owner submit written request • 1/7/2011 3 WT!RN §16NR8P§ x Compliance with City and ADA standards., x Work in right-of-way; easements; city prope x Grading cA (c• 1 FPNRIN9 x Private financing or cost sharing x Department of Natural Resources - .Local Connection Program x Mn /DOT - Transportation Enhan Program Statewide Health ImproyementPro X Blue Cross Blue Shield sABe1or' RINJTTIQN x City of Eagan Engineering & Planning + Project ranking based on: x Area type x Internal site circulation x Growth potential x Site enhancements x Cost x of housing a7 1/7/2011 x Property /Business Owner + Project'Oversight • + On -going Maintenance a � 1/7/2011 6 Introduction Objective • • Voluntary Participation Page 1 CITY OF EAGAN COMMUNITY TRAIL SYSTEM CONNECTIONS TO COMMERCIAL AREAS POLICY Adopted: Date The City of Eagan has a substantial traiUsidewalk/path system dedicated to the use of non - vehicular traffic. The connection of these trail /sidewalk/path systems to commercial properties and providing safe and efficient access to a private business front door is a key component to the success of the City's trail system. The connection segments will serve to facilitate increased usage of the existing trail system, resulting in the reduction of vehicle emissions and traffic congestion while promoting a healthier lifestyle. For the purpose of this policy the word trail or trails may define paths, trails, and sidewalks. The word user or users may define pedestrians, bicyclists, in -line skaters, skateboarders and others who utilize the trail system. The development of a policy to create a mechanism for private property /business owners that encourages implementation of improvements for internal s circulation of non- vehicular traffic, provides mo w,. �� connections to an existing trail segment, establishes the guidelines for the construction of these .. LY „ k improvements, and offers guidance for funding assistance for these improvements. aQ( Private/Public Partnership The City of Eagan has established a trail network that locates these facilities in close proximity to existing commercial development` areas. The effective utilization of the trail network and newly created trail connections to private businesses will be driven by private business /property owners. The partnership between the private business community and the City will seek to: • Support an understanding of potential benefits received from improved internal site circulation for bicycle and pedestrian movements and connection to an existing trail segment. • Encourage private property/business owners to implement internal circulation improvements and connections between existing trails and businesses. • Provide assistance for the review of internal site circulation improvements. The construction of internal site circulation improvements and trail connections will be on a voluntary basis and require the submittal of a written request to the City of Eagan Engineering Division, Public Works Department providing the following information: • Applicant Name, Business, and Property Owner • Address of contact person, business location, and property owner (if different) • Statement of interest in the construction of a trail connection segment for private commercial property/business access, a description of the proposed improvements, and estimated costs for proposed improvements. • Sketch drawing of proposed trail connection segment and key site features. This information will be reviewed by Engineering and Planningstaff. Submittals will be evaluated based on the ranking criteria and third -party funding assistance could be sought via possible grant opportunities for requests that score well. Design/Construction Standards Ultimately, the design of the trail connection segments will require the preparation of a site plan for the proposed improvements signed by a licensed professional civil engineer. The design and construction shall be in compliance with the City of Eagan design standards and with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), current edition, to provide accessible routes for users. Permitting Page 2 The construction of internal site circulation improvements and a trail connection shall be initiated through the submittal of a City of Eagan permit request for the trail connection segment. Permits required for the construction of a trail connection segment may include, but are not limited to, the following: • Permit Work in Right of Way- Easements -City Property • Permit Grading Excavation Funding Alternatives The construction of potential internal site i and cost. The funding of the improvements may be accomplished through the property/business owner or a variety of cost sharing agreements between the property/business owner and other available sources. Individual projects may be reviewed for consideration for application to other available sources. The City may encourage the combination of individual projects into larger project packages to improve the potential to secure competitive outside funding resources. The solicitation of available funds through other programs or sources (other than private contributions) may be assisted by the City of Eagan. Possible funding options and sources for the trail connections could include the following: Private Funds — Property/business owner financing or private cost sharing portion of a funding agreement. City of Eagan — Support for third -party grant money that may result in the City being a conduit to those funds. Area Type (Private Commercial Site) Rating Single Business Destination — low attraction rate 1 Single Business Destination — medium attraction rate 2 Single ,Business Destination — high attraction rate 3 Two (2) Business Destination — low attraction rate 2 Two (2) Business Destination— medium attraction rate 3 Two (2) Business Destination — high attraction rate 4 Multiple Business Destination — low attraction rate 3 Multiple Business Destination — medium attraction rate 4 Multiple Business Destination — high attraction rate 5 Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Local Trail Connections Program — Program established to provide grants to local units of government to promote the completion of relatively short trail connections to desirable location. Established through Minnesota Statutes 85.019 for funds received from lottery proceeds; 50% local match requirement. Transportation Enhancement Program (Mn/DOT) — Federally funded, community-based projects awarded through a competitive selection process for funds distributed through Mn/DOT Office of State Aid; 20% local match requirement. Statewide Health Improvement Program (SHIP) — Grant program established to improve health and reduce demands on the health care system by decreasing the percentage "of Minnesotans who are obese or overweight or use tobacco. Targeted grants from this program would seek to improve walking and biking opportunities in the community. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota (BCBSMN) — Working through the Active Living By Design (ALBD) Grant Program, BCBSMN provides technical assistance and funding to promote environments that encourage physical activity and ultimately improve the health of Minnesotans. Bikes Belong Grant Program — Program through the Bikes Belong Coalition providing grants that will leverage federal, state and private funding. Guidelines "for Priority Determination in4Funding Assistance The following criteria will be utilized in the evaluation and of proposed improvement and funding assistance requests to ensure the utmostin safety_ and practicality while seeking proper fiscal responsibility. Page 3 • Area type Areas which, host a variety of activities, such as stores, entertainment centers, staurants or employment base and the potential for attraction of bicycle and pedestrian users. 3/ Growth Potential of Site Rating No growth potential 0 Limited growth potential "` " 1 Modest growth potential 3 High growth potential 5 Associated Site Enhancements Rating 0 N site:? enhancements Limited number of site enhancements (< 2) 1 Modest number of site' enhancements (2 — 5) 4 High number of site enhancements (> 5) 7 Internal Site Circulation Plan Rating No internal circulation routes and features 0 Limited internal circulation routes and features 1 Good internal circulation routes and features 4 Excellent internal circulation routes and features 7 Improvement Costs Rating High ( >$10,000) 1 Medium' ($5,000 - $10,000) 3 "Low ( < 5 Residential Housing Rating Low Density Residential 2 Medium Density Residential 5 High Density Residential 7 Page 4 • Internal Site Circulation Plan — The proposed improvements to an internal site that provide safe and efficient travel from the existing trail segment to the private business. Establishes dedicated bicycle and pedestrian routes for direct access to businesses. • Growth Potential — The ability for the existing private development area to expand and /or attract additional bicycle and pedestrian users. • Associated Site Enhancements — Existing or proposed features that will enhance the experience of the user when accessing the site for the primary visit. Examples include dedicated bike /pedestrian rest areas,. picnic spaces, benches, bike racks, etc. Improvements Cost - The cost of the proposed improvements to encourage improvements that provide increased benefits to the community for bicycle and pedestrian access with minimal financial investment. • Residential Housing — Proximity (less than 1/4 mile) of the commercial area and proposed trail connection to residential housing areas, providing opportunities for improved bicycle and pedestrian access to lower income and higher density housing areas. Administration Oversight for projects to be implemented will be provided via the private property/business owner. Should the City of Eagan serve as a conduit to third -party funding, the City would monitor the project per grantor requirements before dispersing said funds. The private property/business owners will be responsible for the maintenance of completed improvements on private property, including winter maintenance. Page 5 33