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04/28/2021 - City Council Special MEMO To: Mayor Maguire and City Councilmembers From: Jill Hutmacher, Community Development Director Date: April 21, 2021 Subject: Land Use Changes and Comprehensive Plan Amendments History/Overview In the past few years, the City has received many requests for land use changes and comprehensive guide plan amendments (see Appendix A for a list of comprehensive guide plan amendment requests since 2012). Each amendment request is unique. Some are the result of natural market changes. Others are for infill development of previously overlooked, hard-to- develop properties with slopes, wetlands, soil conditions, or access constraints. It is not uncommon for the developer to inquire about potential City Council support for the amendment. Staff typically share past Council actions and explain that it cannot predict future actions. The City Council may wish to provide guidance on the process and criteria for comprehensive guide plan amendment requests. This would help ensure that the applicant and staff are prepared with the information needed by the City Council when it is placed on the agenda. This conversation by the City Council during the retreat may also lend itself to conversations about a growth policy or growth philosophy as Eagan transitions from a developing to a fully developed city. Research and Findings As a nearly fully developed city, future new investment will largely occur due to redevelopment, reuse, or infill development. Following is a summary of current market forces and anticipated post- pandemic impacts on certain land uses. Multifamily residential development. Demand for multifamily housing has increased in recent years. Suburban multifamily development was scarce in the 2000’s and all residential development virtually ceased during the Great Recession. Prior to the 2014 completion of The Flats at Cedar Grove, Eagan had not seen market rate multifamily construction since the 2002 and 2003 construction of Cedar Villas and Glen Ponds, respectively. With a strong economy in recent years, the Twin Cities has faced housing shortages and rising housing costs. So far, the pandemic has not impacted multifamily development. Projects that were approved pre-pandemic are under construction, and staff continue to receive inquiries from multifamily developers. Major Office. Office demand has been weak, particularly in suburban markets, for many years and demand is expected to further deteriorate with the anticipated long-term increase in remote work. Prime Therapeutics recently announced that it would not renew its lease at Normandale Office Park when it terminates this year. It intends to move the 700 Bloomington-based employees to the Eagan campus where employees have been told to expect to work remotely 50 to 60 percent of the time. Other large employers throughout the Twin Cities and the nation have made similar announcements about consolidating offices and utilizing flex space for employees when they need to be in person. Target is vacating a downtown office building and moving to a hybrid model for 3,500 employees. Ford has notified 30,000 office employees worldwide that they may continue remote work indefinitely. Tax assessors are watching whether a surplus office inventory will lead to moderate valuation decreases. Warehouse/distribution/light industrial. Over the past decade, demand for warehouse/distribution space has increased with the shift to online fulfilment. This shift has continued during the pandemic. Amazon will be opening a second Eagan last-mile warehouse facility in 2021. Demand for new, high-clearance light industrial facilities is strong. Lexington Logistics and OPUS Dodd Business Center were built “on spec” and are now fully leased, and the 112,700 square foot Yankee Doodle Business Center is under construction at the intersection of Yankee Doodle Road and Highway 149. Retail. The future of retail has been uncertain for many years due to the growth of online commerce. Fortunately, Eagan is not “over-retailed” in comparison to other Twin Cities suburbs. In 2018, retail employment represented 7.7 percent of total employment in Eagan. This compares to 12.6 percent overall in Dakota County, 13.5 percent in Maple Grove, and 21.8 percent in Woodbury. Some retail will shift to a hybrid of in-store showroom and online fulfillment. In Eagan, the Associated Bank redevelopment will include a to-be-named grocer with “seamless integration of online and in-store shopping”, and Best Buy has remodeled to decrease showroom space and increase warehouse space to support online fulfillment. Tax valuations for retail centers stayed flat in 2022, but the potential for valuation appeals is a concern. Hotels. Eagan has experienced a surge in hotel construction with 766 additional rooms since 2016. This represents a 49 percent increase over the pre-2016 room count. As hotels age, they may struggle to maintain standards to meet brand specifications. Hotel owners may make improvements to retain the hotel flag (brand), but sometimes the footprint of the building, size of the rooms, or other unalterable features result in a decrease in the quality of the flag (i.e., a Ramada being rebranded as a Super 8). In some cases, a hotel with a low-quality flag may become independent (i.e., non-affiliated with a major hotel group) which is a significant marketing disadvantage due to large, online reservation systems. Some hotels may seek a land use conversion to multifamily residential. According to the Eagan Convention and Visitors Bureau, some Eagan hotels face a significant risk of downgrading or conversion. Please see Exhibit B for a list of Eagan hotels including year built, number of rooms, and recent renovations. Discussion/Public Policy Questions Given the likelihood of frequent requests for comprehensive guide plan amendments, the City Council may want to establish criteria for evaluating land use changes or adjust the land use decision-making process. Currently, the City uses a two-step comprehensive guide plan amendment process. At the first meeting, the Council votes (3-person majority) to send the amendment to the Metropolitan Council for review. At the second meeting, the Council votes to approve the amendment (4-person majority except for affordable housing), rezoning, and other required land use approvals. A challenge of Eagan’s process is that developers hear Council concerns at the first meeting but do not know whether they can satisfactorily address concerns until they invest significant time and money into a full application. The Council could choose to establish a Planning Committee of the Council, although with only two members it may not offer applicants much additional clarity. Many cities have a concept plan review process in which applicants can present their concept plan to the Council and hear feedback and concerns. The City essentially used a concept plan process for the Red Pine site. The applicant had an opportunity to hear the Council’s concerns regarding noise prior to application submittal which allowed a smoother and more predictable approval process. The 2040 Comprehensive Plan lists policies for each land use and for broader issues including housing and economic development. The City Council may choose to develop specific criteria for evaluating land use changes. Criteria may be based on likely benefits or risks including direct, indirect, measurable, and non-quantifiable factors. For example, the City Council may want to consider the following: • Tax base from new development • Anticipated demand generated by the new development for public services including public safety, parks, recreation programs, and infrastructure • Whether the new development will provide necessary housing for workers at Eagan businesses • Whether the new development will provide affordable housing • Whether the new development will provide retail and services for residents and workers • The proposal’s contribution to Eagan’s market strength and whether the new development will promote Eagan’s viability for private investment • The potential for vacant buildings or a decrease in the tax base if the land use change is not approved • The potential for blight from depreciated or obsolete structures • The proposal’s consistency with other specific goals and policies in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Options for Next Steps The City Council has several options for next steps. 1. Do nothing. This would be an appropriate next step if the City Council feels that the current comprehensive guide plan amendment review and approval process works well and should not be changed. 2. Continue discussion at a subsequent City Council workshop. Provide direction to staff on additional research and information that should be provided prior to the workshop. The City Council may wish to discuss a growth policy or growth philosophy to guide land use decisions as the City transitions to a redeveloping community. 3. Develop criteria for evaluating land use changes. Provide direction to staff on which factors are a priority for decision-making. 4. Establish a Planning Committee or concept plan review process. Provide direction to staff on which projects should receive a City Council concept plan review. Should it be based on acreage, types of land use, proximity to residential, or other factors? Should all comprehensive guide plan amendments have a City Council concept plan review? Appendix A Comprehensive Guide Plan Applications 2012-2021 FILE DATE DEVELOPMENT NAME APPLICANT REQUEST Existing Land Use Requested Land Use Council Review Date* Status 3/17/2021 Boulder Lakes-CGA United Properties Request to change approx 11 acres from Major Office to Business Park for future consideration of a 144,000 sf spec building Major Office Business Park 5/4/2021 Pending 3/17/2021 Emagine Site/MWF MWF Properties Request to change a portion of the Emagine Theatre redevelopment site from Retail Commercial to HD, High Density Residential to accommodate a 4-story 85-unit market rate apartment Retail Commercial High Density Residential 5/4/2021 Pending 2/17/2021 The Holy Christian Church The Holy Christian Church Pending application to convert former Delta Dental/Anthem office building in HQ, school and worship center for applicant. Major Office Quasi-Public 4/6/2021 Forwarded to Met Council 9/16/2020 Kettle Park Apartments The Excelsior Group Request to convert Staybridge Suites hotel into rental apartments Retail Commercial High Density Residential 11/4/2020 Forwared to Met Council/Withdrawn 7/15/2020 Lofts at Talon Trail MWF Properties Request to allow multifamily residential use on currently vacant retail commercial property Retail Commercial High Density Residential 9/1/2020 Denied/Withdrawn 5/20/2020 Avery Pines-Red Pine Crossing MD Clements Consulting Request to allow medium density residential on vacant property formerly part of the Red Pine Crossing retail development Retail Commercial Med Density Residential 7/7/2020 Approved 2/19/2020 MV Eagan - Water Annex property MV Eagan Ventures, LLC Application to consider high density residential/and office/warehouse on vacant property adjacent to Viking Lakes. Major Office Mixed Use 5/5/2020 Withdrawn 11/20/2019 Blue Gentian Retail Thirty Eight Properties Eagan, LLC Application to allow retail uses on business park property Business Park Retail Commercial 1/7/2020 Approved 8/21/2019 Cedar Ridge Circle Development ARRA LLC Application to consider a mix of housing types and community space on vacant office/service property Office/Service Mixed Use 10/1/2019 Withdrawn 8/21/2019 The Gallery of Eagan Chase Real Estate Request to convert former Cereal Chemist office/lab site for high density residential-market rate apartment Office/Service High Density Residential 10/1/2019 Approved 6/19/2019 Ballantrae Ballantrae Apartments, LLC Request to change .66 acres from medium density to high density residential for a new 4-story multifamily building. Med Density Residential High Density Residential 8/5/2019 Approved 6/19/2019 Roers Companies Roers Companies request to change 7.7 acres within the Emagine Theatre site from retail commercial to high density residential to allow a multifamily residential bldg. Retail Commercial High Density Residential 12/3/2019 Withdrawn 6/19/2019 Nichols Park LLC -Nicols Apartments/AsterHouse Nichols Park LLC/Real Estate Equities Request to change 8 acre at Nicols Rd and Diffley Rd from Retail Commercial to High Density residential for constructon of 200- unit multifamily affordable housing project. Retail Commercial High Density Residential 8/5/2019 Approved 3/21/2018 Eagan Senior Living Comp Guide Southview Senior Living request to subdivide 7.9 acres from the Skyline Display property and change land use from Business Park to High Density Residential for a senior multifamily development. Business Park High Density Residential 5/1/2018 Approved 3/21/2018 Cedar Cliff Commercial Park CCRE, LLC Request to change land use from Office Service to High Density Residential to remove existing office bldg and construct 89-units of market rate rental apartments on 2.2 acre site Office/Service High Density Residential 5/1/2018 Approved/withdrawn 3/21/2018 MWF Properties/Lexington Flats MWF Properties, LLC Request change of 2.2 acres from office/service to High Density Residential on redevelopment site of former single family homes located along Lexington Ave north of Lone Oak Rd Retail Commercial High Density Residential 5/1/2018 Approved FILE DATE DEVELOPMENT NAME APPLICANT REQUEST Existing Land Use Requested Land Use Council Review Date* Status 2/21/2018 Yankee Doodle Rd/east of Hwy 149 Pulte Homes of Minnesota requst to change 7.3 undeveloped acres lcoated along Yankee Doodle Rd east of Hwy 149 from Business Park to Medium Density Residential for proposed 72-unit townhome development. Business Park Med Density Residential 4/3/2018 Denied 2/20/2018 Dodd Road Apartments Integrated Development, LLC Request to change 5.2 acres of both developed and undeveloped land located south of Hwy 55 and east of Dodd Rd from retail commercial to high density residential for potentially 250-market rate apartments. Retail Commercial High Density Residential 4/3/2018 Denied 1/17/2018 Lebanon Hills Substation Dakota Electric Association request to change .9 acre from Low Density residential to Quasi- Public for expansion of existing electric substation at Dodd Rd and Cliff Rd Low Density Residential Quasi-Public 6/5/2018 Approved 12/20/2017 Costco Wholesale Costco Wholesale c/o TJ Design Strategies Request to change land use on 18.1 acres formerly approved for an office development from Major office to retail commercial Major Office Retail Commercial 9/4/2018 Approved 9/20/2017 Fire Station 5 City of Eagan City initiated change of land use to accommodate sale of former fire station Quasi-Public Office/Service 11/6/2017 Approved 9/20/2017 Former Fire Station 1 City of Eagan City initiated change of land use to accommodate sale of former fire station Quasi-Public Office/Service 11/6/2017 Approved 5/17/2017 Justman Freight Widseth, Smith, Nolting Request to reguide 7.5 acres on Hwy 3 near Red Pine Ln from Low Density Residential to Limited Industrial for expansion of Justman Freight Low Density Residential Limited Industrial 0/16/2018 Approved-not executed to date 12/21/2016 The Lincoln Group The Lincoln Group, Inc.A request to change 9.8 acres formerly part of the Red Pine Crossing retail development from Retail Commercial to Low Density residential Retail Commercial Low Density Residential 2/7/2017 Forwared to Met Council-withdrawn 11/16/2016 Eagan Yankee Doodle Self Storage- CG Eagan Yankee Doodle Self Storage request to change 2 acres from business park to limited industrial on property located along Yankee Doodle Rd east of Hwy 149 for self-storage facility. Business Park Limited Industrial 1/3/2017 Approved 5/9/2016 City of Eagan Property City of Eagan city Council dircted staff to initiate a land use change from Park to Limited Industrial for property to be sold for private compost site. Park Limited Industrial 6/7/2016 Approved 2/17/2016 Fire Station 1 City of Eagan City application to change 4 acres at Blackhawk Rd and Diffley Rd from high density residential to accommodate new fire station High Density Residential Quasi-Public 4/5/2016 Approved 8/28/2015 MVZ Ventures LLC/Viking Lakes EVS Requst to change 200+ acre former Delta Airlines property from Major Office to Mixed Use to accommodate planned Vikng Lakes Development Major Office Mixed Use 10/6/2015 Approved 1/19/2015 Minnesota Autism Center CG Ryan Companies US, Inc.Request to change 6.5 acres from Mixed Use to Quasi-Public for construction of private school within Cedar Grove Redevelopment area. Mixed Use Quasi-Public 3/17/2015 Approved 12/17/2014 Gateway Industrial Park/Wyatt Sharing and Caring CG Wyatt Sharing and Caring Inc Request to change approx 35 acres from OS, Office Service to IND, Limited Industrial. Site of former proposed Gift of Mary project. Office/Service Limited Industrial 2/3/2015 Approved 11/12/2014 The Gates of Eagan Apartments Nichols Park, LLC A request to change approx 8 acres from R/C, Retail Commercial to HD High Density Residential for a 142-unit apartment bldg Retail Commercial High Density Residential 1/6/2015 Withdrawn 9/17/2014 Gift of Mary Property Ryland Homes A Comprehensive Guide Plan Amendment of approximately 33 acres from SA-O/S, Special Area Office Service to SA-LD, Special Area Low Density at site of former Gift of Mary project. Office/Service Low Density Residential 11/5/2014 Withdrawn FILE DATE DEVELOPMENT NAME APPLICANT REQUEST Existing Land Use Requested Land Use Council Review Date* Status 9/17/2014 Collins Investment Properties Collins Investment Properties, LLC A request to change land use of approximately 1.5 acres of vacant property at Heritage Lane and Yankee Doodle Rd from LD, Low Density to O/S, Office Service. Low Density Residential Office/Service 5/19/2015 Withdrawn 1/15/2014 CityVue Commons CG Interstate Partners A request to change land use of 9.8 acres from O/S, Office Service to MU, Mixed Use for mixed commercial and High Density Residential development at former Blue Cross Blue Shield office site. Office/Service Mixed Use 6/17/2014 Approved 10/16/2013 Preusse CG A request to change land use of 3 acres between Old Sibley Hwy and Old Sibley Memorial Hwy from BP, Business Park to MD, Medium Density. Business Park Med Density Residential 12/3/2013 Forwarded to Met Council not executed 7/17/2013 Justman Freight line Justman Freight Lines A Comprehensive Guide Plan Amendment from LD, Low Density to IND, Limited Industrial. Low Density Residential Limited Industrial Withdrawn 6/19/2013 Gratus Development/(developed as Quarry Rd Development) Gratus Development Partners LLC A request to change 24 acres of Agriculture property at Yankee Doodle Rd west of Central Pkwy from SA/ MO, Special Area/ Major Office to SA/ MU, Special Area/ Mixed Use. Major Office Mixed Use 8/5/2013 Approved 5/3/2013 Parkview Golf Course - Cell Tower Hunter Emerson LLC A Comprehensive Guide Plan Amendment from Private Recreation to Quasi- Public for approximately half an acre for use as a Cell Tower site Private Recreation Quasi-Public 6/4/2013 Approved 5/3/2013 Nicols Ridge Park City of Eagan A city initiated land use change from Special Area - Medium Density Special Area - Park within the Cedar Grove Redevelopment Area Med Density Residential Park 6/4/2013 Approved 2/20/2013 Holden Property Southview Senior Living A request to change approx 10 acres from medium density residential to high density residential for development of a senior independent and assisted living facility Med Density Residential High Density Residential 5/7/2013 Approved 10/17/2012 Riverview Ridge Townhomes Dakota County CDA A request to change land use of 4.4 acres located along Hwy 13 north of Letendre St from High Density to Medium Density residenteial for workforce townhomes project High Density Residential Med Density Residential 12/4/2012 Approved 4/18/2012 Parkview Golf Course 2012 Hunter/ Emerson A request to change land use of 80 acres used as a golf course from Private Recreation to Low Density residential. Private Recreation Low Density Residential 6/19/2012 Approved * Council review date is initial review date not implementation date Appendix B Eagan Hotels Rooms, Year Built, and Renovations Hotel Name Address # of Rooms Building Open Year Most Recent Renovation Renovation Valuation Type of Renovation Fairfield Inn & Suites 3949 Cedar Grove Pkwy 107 2021 NA Omni Viking Lakes Hotel 2611 Nordic Way 320 2020 NA Hilton Home2 Suites 3939 Cedar Grove Pkwy 119 2018 NA Residence Inn by Marriott 1560 Quarry Rd 127 2018 NA Holiday Inn Express & Suites 3434 Washington Dr 93 2016 NA Country Inn & Suites 3035 Holiday Lane 77 2002 NA Staybridge Suites 4675 Rahncliff Rd 89 1999 2013 95,000$ Interior Improvement TownePlace Suites by Marriott 3615 Crestridge Dr 95 1999 2016 560,000$ Remodel, new bathrooms Days Inn 4510 Erin Dr 100 1998 NA Hilton Garden Inn 1975 Rahncliff Ct 99 1998 2018 500,000$ Interior Improvement Microtel Inn & Suites 3000 Denmark Ave 79 1998 2021 112,500$ Renovation of hotel lobby/adjoining living suite Extended Stay America - North 3015 Denmark Ave 130 1997 2019 200,000$ Drywall Repairs Extended Stay America - South 3384 Norwest Ct 104 1997 NA SpringHill Suites by Marriott 3635 Crestridge Dr 105 1996 2018 200,000$ Remodel Lobby Hampton Inn 3000 Eagandale Pl 122 1994 2019 1,700,000$ Interior & Exterior Remodel Norwood Inn and Suites 1950 Rahncliff Ct 120 1993 2017 28,000$ Spa Installation Sonesta ES Suites 3040 Eagandale Pl 120 1988 2016 400,000$ Guestroom upgrades, public space remodel, new buffet Holiday Inn 2700 Pilot Knob Rd 187 1987 2003 105,000$ Interior Improvement Best Western Plus Dakota Ridge 3450 Washington Dr 108 1983 2014 140,000$ Exterior Improvement Budget Host 2745 Hwy 55 17 1952 2015 40,000$ Fire Repair Notes: 1. 2,318 total rooms 2. Renovations do not include regular capital maintenance such as water heater or boiler replacement. 3. Renovations do not include aesthetic improvements for which a building permit is not required such as carpet, paint, or furnishings. MEMO To: Mayor Maguire and City Councilmembers From: Andrew Pimental, Director of Parks and Recreation Date: April 21, 2021 Subject: Recreation Facilities Study – Providing the Plan for the Next 20 Years History/Overview Eagan has a great foundation for our parks and for our recreation facilities, all due to the work of the staff and Council members that have come before us. Now is our time, working through this next wave, to ensure that 20 years from now those in our shoes will share similar thoughts. In the October 2016 Parks CIP presentation to City Council, it was originally discussed on the quality parks system the City of Eagan has, but that we are staring down challenges due to an aging infrastructure in our parks. Secondary to this, there has been an ongoing discussion on the future funding challenges of the Park Development Fund as the city becomes fully developed. Finally, this topic was further examined with a comprehensive facility study that specifically looked at our larger recreation facilities and through a needs analysis identified additional anticipated recreation needs over the next twenty years. Much has changed in Eagan over the past 26 years when the Civic Arena, Cascade Bay, and the Eagan Community Center were all built in an 8-year period between 1995 and 2003. This study led to a variety of possible concepts for facility updates, improvements and expansions, as well as new facilities to address indoor turf (youth and adult athletics) needs. Below is a recap of the different items related to the 2019 city facilities from the 292 study. Eagan Community Center: add space for senior programs, add fitness/wellness related space, create another elevator for easier access to the lower level from main entry, update indoor playground significantly, replace all mechanical systems in the building, reconstruct the front desk for more functional access, and create possible additional space for storage and for the ECVB. Eagan Art House: demo the current structure and rebuild an approximate 10,000 square foot facility that would integrate an Art house feel with efficient mechanical operations and have a quality multipurpose opportunity to it for added facility rental options for the community and create unique and creative indoor/outdoor spaces for use at this amazing property. Eagan Civic Arena: update and create more function in the lobby spaces, update locker room facilities to allow for additional showers to be installed, update and increase multipurpose spaces, enhance facility mechanical systems and create more flexibility in facility use. Cascade Bay: install entry feature as people come into the park – similar to entry fountains, update concessions building, create a large rentable cabana in island of the lazy river, possibly install more adult related hot tubs into the hillside of the park, and create private cabana related items along the south border of the park to enhance private rental opportunities. Indoor athletic facility: Through staff’s research and experience, there are multiple ways this could be achieved – most affordably a dome like structure over an athletic field. A more significant option could be a permeant structure that would have greater energy efficiency and offer year- round use on bad weather days in Minnesota. The cost for such a facility could be a wide range from $5M to more than $50M pending size and complexity. In the last discussion with the entire council, this particular item was identified as an item that has been discussed for years, but the option to consider moving forward may depend on a partner to help with the construction and/or operations costs. To date, we have not received any groups that have come forward with a partnership option yet, nor have we announced partnership opportunities for such a facility. COVID 19 hit at a most unfortunate time for many things in our world, but also at the time when funding for these improvements was just beginning to be discussed. There are options, but much of the City’s strategy will be built around guidance from City Council on how we will go about funding such improvements over the next ten years. These improvements on these recreation facilities will be a 20-year investment. Research and Findings A part of having a great parks and recreation system is to have the infrastructure to provide programs, events and other opportunities for enrichment for the residents of a city. The City has a variety of wonderful facilities and a few that have played their role in the providing of services to the community. Our great facilities need attention to stay wonderful, and our older facilities need to be considered for replacement to be safe and viable in serving the “now” and more so “future” Eagan community. Financing of these improvements could be accomplished through the sale of bonds, authorized by a voter approved referendum. Of course, the scope of improvements and their projected costs would need to be determined before the question on the sale of bonds is put before the voters. Other options include private partnerships, use of fund balances, private donations, or funding from the State of Minnesota. Other comparable city examples of recreation facility infrastructure investment in the past ten years is highlighted in the attached chart document, and comprehensive project listing for your review. As you can see through this resource, many similar cities to Eagan are investing large financial commitments to build and improve their existing public recreation infrastructure. Discussion/Public Policy Questions First, investment into our current facilities is a continued responsibility that is extended from the day in which the City made those investments. Better amenities, updated furnishings, mechanical systems and more efficient operations can all be achieved in the following facilities: Eagan Art House, Eagan Community Center, Civic Arena and Cascade Bay. Cascade Bay, during the summer of 2020 in which it was not open to the public, did receive a large number of investments to help get it caught up on deferred maintenance but also to add a few additional small amenities to the facility. With this, we ask that Cascade Bay be pushed more towards the end of this current facilities regarding more immediate future investments. This destination water park will continue to be an amenity that will be popular with city residents and nonresidents alike for the next 5 – 10 years without much additional investment. Throughout 2019, Parks and Recreation staff worked with 292 Architects and the Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission to present some current and future recreation facilities to be considered by the City Council. Before the staff was able to present to the Finance Committee some thoughts on priorities of these facilities projects and possible funding sources, COVID began and we have not approached City Council since then. The time is now to pick back up this important future planning work as we learned in that study that our youngest recreation facility is nearing 20 years of age this next year and all facilities are starting to show their age and lack of function to today’s changing world. Questions we anticipate discussing with the Finance Committee: Recently with the discussion of Federal money possibly being introduced to each state for the basis of infrastructure and possible state bonding initiatives, do we initiate a 2021 application to a possible partial funding of a new Art House to replace the significantly outdated and undersized structure we have used for years for this purpose? If there is state bonding money available for one-time projects tied to infrastructure investments to boost the economy, does this facility make sense as a candidate to serve this region of Dakota County? The momentum for public spaces that COVID has created, with also the highest level of public support for parks and recreation facilities and programs, does the timing make sense to put together a referendum for a larger tax initiative to provide for funding for up to the anticipated needs identified in the 292 study? Is there a time that we solicit for partnerships for an indoor athletic turf facility? We have received a significant request for partnership by the Eagan Hockey Association to go in together to build a covered outdoor refrigerated ice rink in our park system. After staff has met with them a few times on the idea, this is something we could add to the infrastructure list, and possibly make up for the costs by paring down the investments made to the Civic Arena itself. At this time, verbally the EHA is ready to commit upwards of $1.2M towards a partnership project. Timing and priority of projects should be discussed, pending the funding discussions for final presentation to council. In conclusion and next steps Recreation facilities in a region provide for opportunities and quality of life enhancements. People choose to live where they want to be for many reasons, but parks and recreation has continuously been a top deciding factor for families when they choose to purchase a home in Eagan. Staff desires to discuss these current facility thoughts with Council and look forward to getting the ball rolling on the next 20 years of facility improvements for the Eagan community. 1.) Receive guidance and feedback, with certain prioritization from the City Council as part of the retreat discussion 2.) Schedule continued discussion at a City Council workshop, which could be preceded by a meeting of the Finance Committee, which was the original intent before the pandemic hit. Finance Committee could deliberate on the feasibility of a referendum for some or all of the facilities. 3.) Seek feedback from the Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission. 4.) Begin the process of soliciting partnerships for certain parks facilities improvements HEALTHEAST SPORTS CENTER Woodbury - $21.8 million RECREATION OUTDOOR CENTER St. Louis Park - $8.4 million FEATURES: • New indoor fieldhouse and expanded lobby • Two existing indoor sheets of ice • New outdoor refrigerated recreational skating rink, 36 existing outdoor athletic fields, and new splash pad water feature • Madison’s Place – new outdoor all- inclusive playground FEATURES: • New covered ice rink in winter months for hockey, public skating, and broomball • Can be converted to a covered, turfed field for athletics or special events • Dry, concrete floor provides space for summer activities • Host site for weddings, movies and parties PLANNING PROCESS: • Newsletter articles and questions included every other year in bi-annual community survey • February 2012 – Citizen Task Force appointed to study design options for expanding the field house • Outdoor rink, splash pad, and outdoor playground added during the task force process • User group focused rather than public in- put/open houses due to the limited scope of the project PLANNING PROCESS: • 2014 Feasibility Study with RSP Architects which included cost estimates • Council then authorized staff to move onto the schematic design phase which identified scope of project • Discussions held with the St. Louis Park Hockey Association • Branding and renaming of the building/ site took place towards the end of the project FUNDING: General Obligation Tax Abatement Bonds were issued February 2013 to provide funding for the project. Contributions from the Capital Improvement fund, the Park Dedication fund and the Storm Water Utility fund were used. FUNDING: Project funding included included $6,000,000 G.O. Bonds, Hockey Association Donation, Park Improvement Fund contribution and General Fund contribution. BROOKVIEW COMMUNITY CENTER Golden Valley - $18.2 million FEATURES: • New restaurant • New indoor playground, added banquet room space, senior gathering area • Expanded multi-purpose activity rooms • Larger lobby area PLANNING PROCESS: • 2014 hired HGA to conduct a “needs assessment” and design proposal • Council appoints citizen task force to work with staff; Task Force presents coun-cil a 79,000 sf facility with estimated cost of $38 million • Council decides to pursue a scaled down version of the project • City council directs staff to hire HGA to begin a pre-design phase and public input process • Public comments submitted at open houses and electronically through the City website • Staff & HGA present 2-3 plans to council for final approval FUNDING: The City funded the project with a loan from the Housing and Redevelopment Authority using a 20-year term lease-purchase option. Starting in 2017, a median value home (approximately $262,000) in Golden Valley saw an estimated $7.58/month or $91/year increase in property taxes to pay back the bond. • HGA Architects • Adolfson & Peterson Construction • POPE Architects • Kraus-Anderson Construction • RSP Architects • RJM Construction RECENTLY COMPLETED RENOVATIONS/EXPANSIONS The following are other facilities that have recently completeled renovations/expansions. 2016 2015 2016 Community Center Elk River - $35 million FEATURES: • Two Full Size Indoor Sheets of Ice • Senior Activity Center • 30,000 square foot Fieldhouse • Walking Track • Café • Event/Meeting Space. FUNDING: General Obligation Bond Referendum (25 years). Half cent sales tax (25 years) or until project costs is covered. • JLG Architects • 292 Architects • RJM Construction PLANNING PROCESS: • 2015 – Parks Master Plan identifies the need for a comprehensive facility study • 2016 – Feasibility study, community engage- ment, stakeholder meetings • 2017 – JLG and 292 hired to review facility, improvement options, and community needs. • 2017 – Construction Manager (RJM) hired to facilitate the cost exploration, project se- quencing, and construction management. • 2018 – Local sales tax study to be completed by UM Extension Service • 2018 – Community Listening sessions are scheduled for public input • 2018 – Referendum to approve project with local sales tax proceeds approved • 2019 – Project Begins 2019 Plymouth Creek Center Plymouth - $52 million FEATURES: • Indoor Playground • Dance/Fitness/Wellness Studios • Two Full Size Gyms (with multi-game courts) • Exhibit Space • Walking Track • Senior/Adult Spaces • Art/Party/Music/Multi-Purpose Rooms • Common Space • Renovated Ballroom • Redesigned Black Box Theater FUNDING: ($1.5 M) Sales Tax Exemption Reimbursement, ($5 M) State Bonding, ($41.3 M) G.O. Tax Abate- ment Bonds, ($910,000) 2020 Levy (General Fund), (3%) Lodging Tax Proceeds – if desired • HGA Architects • RJM Construction PLANNING PROCESS: • 2016-2017 Feasibility Study • 2018 Community Engagement Study/Report • 2019 Schematic Design & Design Develop- ment with Architect & Construction Manager • 2020 Final Design/Construction Document Developed & Bid Authorization • 2020 July – Bid Opening • 2020 Aug/Sept – Bids accepts/project begins 2020 Total list of known, potential recreation facility projects through peer cities in the current or near future TBD $25 Mil Sports Center (Reno/Expansion)City of St. Cloud TBD $20 Mil Community Center (New)City of Cottage Grove TBD TBD Community Center (Reno/Expansion)City of Maple Grove TBD $85 Mil Community Center (Reno vs. New)City of Bloomington TBD TBD Community Gathering Center (Reno/Expansion)City of Woodbury Communities that are Evaluating & Discussing Larger Recreation Facility Projects 2 Construction Estimated Cost Type of Project Image/Rendering Municipality 2020 $51 Mil Community Center (Reno/Expansion)City of Plymouth 2020 $ 12 Mil Community Center (Reno/Expansion)City New Ulm 20 19 $35 Mil Community Center/Arena (Reno/Expansion)City of Elk River 20 19 $ 12 Mil Nature Center (New)City of St. Louis Park 20 19 $19 Mil Community Center (Reno/Expansion)City Andover 20 19 $6 Mil Senior Center (Reno/Expansion)City of Blaine 20 18 $26 Mil Brooklyn Park - Park Referendum City of Brooklyn Park 20 17 $ 11 Mil Community Center (New)City of Sartell 20 17 $13 Mil Community Center (Reno/Expansion)City of Shoreview 20 16 $18.2 Mil Community Center (New)City of Golden Valley 20 16 $8.4 Mil Outdoor Covered Ice Rink (New)City of St. Louis Park 20 16 $30.4 Mil Community Center/Arena (Reno/Expansion)City of Shakopee 20 15 $16 Mil Curling Center (New)City of Chaska 20 15 $21.8 Mil Sports Center (Reno/Expansion)City of Woodbury Memo To: Mayor Maguire and City Councilmembers From: Andrew Pimental, Director of Parks and Recreation Date: April 23, 2021 Subject: Sustainability Program and Coordinator Position History/Overview Throughout the last decade, our City staff have worked to incorporate sustainability into our City through a variety of efforts. Components of this work have been complemented by the continued dedication of professionals who volunteer to serve on the Energy and Environment Advisory Commission (EEAC). In 2019, the sustainability efforts of the EEAC through the Green Steps Cities program were commended for its successes in a cost-effective manner. It is important to recall the concerns expressed by the EEAC during the joint meeting with the City Council in October 2020, as there is additional work that needs to be done is this area of sustainability. If this additional work is going to be completed, the City needs a full-time subject matter expert who can more efficiently and effectively help move the City forward in this most important endeavor. While much progress has been made over the last decade, it is at the expense of non-experts, which is uncommon throughout our organization. At that joint meeting in October, 2020, Staff shared a variety of options to consider, including the possibility of a shared position with another City, or possibly a part time position. Research was completed and although a shared position may be possible, a strong case could be made that Eagan is large enough and sophisticated enough with its current efforts and aspirations to warrant a full-time position devoted to Eagan. Initial work to be completed at the next level might include, but not limited to, planning initiatives for energy planning, climate action planning, Green Steps management, creation of a sustainability plan, research additional funding opportunities to assist with paying for sustainability related improvements and monitor best practices across the country and state. Then, the task will be incorporating this work into our City operations and providing certain guidance throughout the entire City. Preparation of budgets for 2022-2023 is underway and lends itself to a perfect time for the City Council to consider addressing increased efforts on the City’s sustainability needs. Direction from the City Council is desired on the level of interest and best methods to increase efforts to match the expectations and professionalism of the EEAC and the greater Eagan community with respect to sustainability in initiatives. EEAC members have expressed frustration, that with limited Staff capacity and expertise, they do not see the same level of production as other Commissions achieve. In addition, there are inefficiencies with Parks Staff research and Page 2 proceeding with sustainability initiatives and addressing questions and concerns expressed by the EEAC. The ability to progress on long term sustainability efforts and compile comprehensive materials related to sustainability is extremely limited under the current model. Research and Findings Best practices in the world of sustainability might suggest a City over 50.000 in population should have the capacity for a sustainability focused, full time position. This appears consistent with many other peer cities in the Twin Cities area. The City of Edina has initiated a highly successful model that utilizes franchise fees on gas and electric accounts through utility partners in their communities, which results in nearly $1 million of revenue for the City. Some of those funds are then used to pay for two full time sustainability staff. In addition, it provides a funding source for sustainability focused projects, such as LED lighting conversions, mechanical system upgrades, automated building technologies, electric vehicles and charging stations, as well as sidewalks in older neighborhoods to improve the walkability in opportunities in the City of Edina. Staff has attached a position description for the City of Edina Sustainability Coordinator position. Below is a breakdown of other cities within the Green Steps program and how they address their sustainability efforts.  Minneapolis: several dedicated levels of sustainability staffing.  St. Paul: several dedicated levels of staff who focus on sustainability.  St. Louis Park: Sustainability Manager, with multiple dedicated staff. (Job description of Environment and Sustainability Coordinator position is attached)  Duluth: multiple dedicated staff lead by a Sustainability Manager  Bloomington: Environmental and Sustainability Coordinator leads multiple staff.  Eden Prairie, Maplewood, Inver Grover Heights, Mankato, Elk River, Richfield, White Bear Lake and Woodbury: all have dedicated sustainability coordinator positions.  Chanhassen, Brooklyn Park, Hopkins, Apple Valley, Coon Rapids, Winona, Willmar, Shoreview, Fridley, Lakeville, Burnsville and Roseville: all have a dedicated staff member ranging from Environmental Specialist to Solid Waste and Recycling Coordinators. Staff has attached a draft job description identifying duties for a full-time position to lead the sustainability efforts for the City. Should a full-time position be included in the 2022 budget, the Parks and Recreation Director, Assistant Parks and Recreation Director and Assistant City Administrator would all be relieved of certain duties associated with the sustainability efforts of the City. If supported to hire a professional member of staff to lead these efforts, current staff will assemble a similar program, following the lead of Edina and other cities, using franchise fees to fund not only sustainability staffing, as well as equipment and projects. This will be one option for consideration. Options for Next Steps: 1. Continue discussion at a future City Council workshop 2. Direct Staff to include the position of Sustainability Coordinator (or similar) in the 2022 Budget. Full Time is requested, although to start Part Time could be considered. If this Page 3 option is considered further, Council feedback on implementing a franchise fee to provide a funding source would be welcomed. 3. Continue with the same model, recognizing the deficiencies inherit in the current system POSITION DESCRIPTION POSITION TITLE: Environment and Sustainability Coordinator DEPARTMENT: Parks and Recreation ACCOUNTABLE TO: Assistant Parks and Recreation Director POSITION SUMMARY: The Environment and Sustainability Coordinator is responsible for developing and sustaining a strategic sustainability program and for working and developing projects and systems that support and further the city’s advancement in sustainable measures across the city. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • Establish, plan, oversee and maintain an effective sustainability program across the city, with emphasis on conservation, environmental impacts, energy guidance, and resiliency. • Work and collaborate with all City Departments on their CIP Plans and initiate sustainability practices into their efforts, including a collaboration on a beginning effort to establish a Climate Action Plan for the City. • Acts as the Green Steps Cities Coordinator for the City of Eagan, including working towards establishing work plans to maintain the city at a level 5 status in the program. • Acts as Liaison for the City Council with respect to the Energy and Environment Advisory Commission for the City. • Works with managers from all departments to prepare best practices for incorporation into day to day operations based around core environmental and energy conservation strategies. • Creates and presents educational information pertaining to sustainability and environmental issues to staff, community, developers and elected officials. • Assist with existing programs and encourage new initiatives and collaborations by staff. • Establish and promote a culture of continuous improvement, building an effective sustainability program to improve energy efficiency, use of resources and greater fiscal impact with capital investments and operations. • Works with Fleet Management team on helping find additional ways to support increase gas and diesel efficiencies and best practices. • Coordinate both internal and external communications via social media, email distributions, website updates, newsletter articles, news releases and other articles and flyers in cooperation with the Communications and Engagement team. • Work with Asset Management Coordinator to support condition assessment of existing assets and improve and enhance capital improvement planning and budgeting through a sustainability lens. • Works to identify grant opportunities to support further sustainability efforts. • Monitors B3 energy data, including data input, analysis and utilization. • Works with contractors on energy related analysis and make recommendations for additional policies and procedures to help decrease GhG emissions and building energy waste over time. • Prepare reports, estimates, presentations, and determine individual project needs. • Perform statistical and other analyses on energy specific data, including auditing of budgets for all things utilities. This will also include break down of solar garden subscription data and analysis. • Act as a resource and assist in developing the Capital Improvement Plan and O&M budgets. • Help manage and coordinate the City’s efforts related to waste reduction programs and may act as staff liaison with the Dakota Valley Recycling staff. • Keep current on Federal, State and local legislation affecting environmental, sustainability and resiliency programs and projects, and analyze implications of new regulations and requirements and how they impact the City of Eagan. • Prepare manuals, SOPs, and other guiding documents specific to environment, sustainability, and resiliency. • Develop program training manual and provide training related activities for staff. • Timely and accurate completion of assigned projects. • Perform other duties as assigned or needed. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: • Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university or college in Environmental Science, Engineering, Public Administration, Urban Planning or a field related to Environmental issues and sustainability. • Three years’ specific work experience in a related sustainability or resiliency field. • State of Minnesota Driver’s License DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS: • Master’s degree in related field. • 6 years of relevant work experience in the field of Environmental Management or Sustainability • Experience working with Asset Management systems and personnel • Experience working in local government environment OTHER KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Incumbent operates within broad and general guidelines, exercising discretion and independent judgment in selecting the appropriate approach or adapting unclear guidelines to address specific situations. Numerous duties are performed that are not directly related to one another. This is generally an office position with an estimated 25% of time spent intermittently outside and/or in facilities outside of office setting. There will occasionally be lifting of up to 25 lbs Report preparation, writing and communication through presentation will at time creative pressure associated with projects and deadlines. Knowledge of: • Database implementation, management for energy management systems. • Computerized data compilation and conversion techniques. • GIS systems knowledge preferred. • Digital data analysis and reporting tools. • Best practices and management through SOP. Skills in: • Maintaining accurate and interrelated database records. SUPERVISION: Incumbent is given assignments and objectives that are governed by specifically outlined work methods and a sequence of steps, which are explained in general terms. Immediate supervision is not consistent, but checks are integrated into work processes and/or reviews are frequent enough to ensure compliance with instructions. Incumbent works with others to enable completion of tasks but does not supervise staff. MEMO To: Mayor Maguire and City Councilmembers From: Dianne Miller, Assistant City Administrator Date: April 21, 2021 Subject: Eagan Forward and Future Goals History/Overview In 2016, the City adopted a 20-year vision called Eagan Forward. The effort was initiated by the City to create an inclusive, candid process to give Eagan an opportunity to address its challenges, engage new leaders, assess the trends impacting the region, and identify a new vision for current and future residents. Those living and working in Eagan offered thousands of ideas in response to the visioning effort. Community study groups, the City Council, and City staff worked in partnerships to determine how to make the vision a reality for Eagan’s future. The updated Comprehensive Guide Plan includes many suggestions from Eagan Forward. Our Eagan staff team has embraced the vision of Eagan Forward to Make Eagan America’s Best Place to Live. We are focusing on the following strategies to achieve that vision: At the Council retreat in January, a request was made to review the progress on Eagan Forward, five years after the visioning was launched. City Council Retreat Memo: Eagan Forward and Future Goals April 21, 2021 Page 2 Research and Findings Below is a summary of key efforts associated with each of the six Eagan Forward strategies. The summary was prepared with input from each director. The projects called out below are not inclusive of every effort the City has taken in response to Eagan Forward over the past five years. Rather, they are the more recent projects our team believes best meets the six strategies identified through the visioning effort. For a more comprehensive list of the efforts taken in 2016-2019, please see attached list. Eagan is a place for all people • Our Communications team has made our communications and website more user-friendly, including services for those with limited English proficiency, translation services, and overall adjustments to ensure web accessibility for all. • In 2018 a cross section of nine (9) employees for the City of Eagan participated in a yearlong training through the Government Alliance on Race and Equity (GARE). GARE is a national network of government working to achieve racial equity and advance opportunities for all. Throughout the training sessions, the employee team learned more about the history, current realities, and best practices for advancing racial equity in our organization and community. • In 2019, GARE participants merged with another committee of City employees, to create a newly branded committee that has been meeting for nearly two years: “The Racial Equity and Inclusion” Committee (REI).This team created a racial equity toolkit our staff uses to evaluate program and efforts with an equity lens. The team provided implicit bias training to staff. • This year, the 2022/2023 budget will be reviewed using a racial equity lens/tool for the first time in Eagan’s history. • Eagan has increased and diversified its lifecycle housing stock including two affordable housing developments under construction and an approved 55+ veterans’ preference development, several market rate multifamily buildings, an active senior apartment project, and three “continuum of care” senior housing facilities. We also adopted a Fair Housing Policy. • Our Human Resources team in partnership with all departments are focused on hiring efforts to improve the diversity amongst our candidate pool. We launched a new partnership with the League of MN Cities to offer video interviews of candidates, allowing staff to interview many more candidates and providing a more equitable and inclusive format for considering applicants. We also participate in Pathways to Policing, a program seeking to get more diverse law enforcement candidates. • We have been successful in recent years in diversifying our staff to include more women and people of color in Public Works, Parks and Recreation, Police, and Fire positions. • Accessibility has been a focus of the Public Works and Parks and Recreation. Trail accessibility has been improved and equipment at parks, such as new bocce ball courts at Quarry Park, provides activities for all abilities. Additional trails were plowed during the pandemic to give everyone access to greater walking opportunities, both for recreation and to access neighborhood businesses (we currently plow 86.88 miles). City Council Retreat Memo: Eagan Forward and Future Goals April 21, 2021 Page 3 • In 2019, the City adopted a revamped program for participants needing assistance to access recreational activities. The “Fee Options Plan” allows an alternative and equitable financial assistance plans for all residents to participate in recreational activities • Transit remains a high priority, as evident by numerous partnerships with MVTA, including new bus shelters and street adjustments to encourage the use of transit. • Numerous awards were given to Eagan this year, including Edina Realty rating Eagan a top place for young families. We also rated highly as a place to retire and for our inclusivity. • In 2019, the Police Department hosted a Community Conversation entitled “Building Bridges and Trust”. Approximately 50 people attended to discuss race and policing. Mental health was also discussed, which led to a planned community discussion in the Spring of 2020 (cancelled due to Covid). • In 2020, the police department scheduled another Community Conversation to hear the concerns of citizens following the death of George Floyd. Unfortunately, the event was cancelled due to a looming protest. • This year, the police department partnered with the FBI to create a Youth Leadership Academy, which will be held annually, for kids ages 14-16.  The goal of the initiative is to introduce the kids to leadership principal from both the public and private sector. This event will be open to kids throughout the metro area. The Minnesota Vikings, Blue Cross Blue, and Thomson Reuters are some of the supporters of this initiative. Eagan is a healthy city • Eagan’s community survey rankings showed very high marks in terms of health of the community, air quality, natural environment, and water quality. • Eagan created a Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan, guiding trail design around the community. • The City has continued to participate in the Minnesota GreenSteps Cities program since 2011. With work done by the Energy and Environment Advisory Commission, the City has reached and maintained the highest level of achievement/designation (level 5) for four consecutive years. • The Eagan Community Center continues to be a welcoming facility for all levels users to recreate and improve their personal health. The Fitness Center continues to operate efficiently and has added new popular class options such as Bunny Yoga. The Silver Sneakers and Silver Fit programs continue to be a successful option for participants to access the Fitness Center and group fitness classes. • Our Parks and Recreation department partnered with The Open Door to ensure our community members had access to healthy foods. • Eagan has maintained a public health page during the pandemic, using GIS skills to connect residents with accessible resources. • The City purchased two additional electric vehicles and installed a charging station at City Hall as we seek to grow our electronic and alternative fuel vehicles in our fleet. • During the COVID pandemic, virtual building inspections kept homeowners and inspectors safe. City Council Retreat Memo: Eagan Forward and Future Goals April 21, 2021 Page 4 • Eagan now has a Fire department staff trained to the level of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT’s) or paramedic level, responding to all 911 medical calls in our community. • Eagan has maintained our strong financial health as demonstrated through the retention of its AAA bond rating. Eagan is creative and innovative • In the fall of 2020, the City of Eagan partnered with Dakota County on the Dakota County CARES Small Business Relief Grant Program. There were 59 grants awarded to small businesses and nonprofits with City funds, and 135 grants to small businesses with County funds. Grants in the amount of up to $25,000 were awarded. • In the last two years our audience has increasingly been engaging with us in digital channels. We have seen our social media followers increase more than 23% and our monthly web traffic increasing on average by 37%. Especially during Covid-19 our audience connected with us online for information to keep their families safe, continue business, and answer their questions. We anticipate that audiences will continue to meet us online after the public health crisis is over, and we will continue to prioritize this shift to digital. • Our digital engagement via YouTube has grown exponentially, especially during COVID. We’ve increased from 270 subscribers in 2019 to 1,370 subscribers in 2021 (407% increase). • The Eagan GIS Team has been internationally recognized several times in the last two years. One example of their innovative work was their creation of a system on our City website where residents can report issues or raise questions (similar to a 311 program). The system then transforms requests into a work order management system for staff. This internal GIS effort saved the city thousands of dollars a year using existing software and staff expertise. • During closures in 2020, Parks and Recreation created a reoccurring, digital catalog called “Discover Eagan At Home,” which included activities participants could do at home including fitness classes, crossword puzzles, preschool games, art projects and more. The department produced 18 editions of the catalog. • Eagan is one of the first suburbs in the Twin Cities to change its fire department from all volunteer to a career model. We have won two awards (Minnesota State Fire Chiefs and LMC) for this innovative change and now others are following suite. • In partnership with the APrC, a public art program including small and large art pieces as well as functional art is now in place throughout the community. To date, Eagan has 16 art benches, 11 larger art pieces, and 4 art on loan sculptures. Additional pieces have been scheduled to be installed in 2021. • With the Eagan art community continuing to grow, Parks and Recreation along with collaborative partners developed Art Block. Art Block is a two-week celebration of art, learning and community spaces located in the heart of Eagan following the square mile from Wescott Road and Lexington Avenue, to Diffley Road to Pilot Knob Road, and back to City Council Retreat Memo: Eagan Forward and Future Goals April 21, 2021 Page 5 Wescott Road. Participants could enjoy activities, events and art shared by a variety of collaborators. • New pocket parks are in development, including two at Fire Stations 1 and 4. The new pocket parks creatively use fire themes to enhance the space. • The City undertook an infrastructure needs analysis projecting 50 years of needs. An updated Utility Rate Study suggested funding approaches to sustain all utility systems for the future. • This spring the police department will kick-off its first virtual Citizen Academy, which has traditionally been done in person. In the future, this may serve as a method to expand our outreach to the community. • The police department added a drone and remote cameras to expand their use of technology, for enforcement purposes. • Building Inspections transitioned to electronic submission and review of building plans which is more sustainable and efficient than processing paper plans. The change was also beneficial in response to the pandemic. • The Tree Sale has remained a successful program for residents to either replace or add additional trees to their property at an affordable price. Recently, the tree sale has added online sales, which has increased efficiency and access to residents. • An abundance of innovation was demonstrated by staff across all departments in response to the pandemic. Our IT team equipped 150+ employees with the ability to work remotely in a matter of weeks. Likewise, departments worked together to implement numerous COVID policies and procedures to ensure the safety of our staff and continuity of services. Eagan is a destination community • The City adopted ordinances that allow administrative approval of special and cultural events and outdoor food sales. • The City has approved two to-be-named grocers that are expected to bring highly desired shopping experiences to Eagan. • The extensive renovation of the Emagine Theater resulted in a facility with updated, lounge- style seating and a popular axe-throwing venue. • Eagan is now home to the Minnesota Vikings. The Twin Cities Orthopedics Performance Center and the Omni Hotel at Viking Lakes provide opportunities for destination athletic, entertainment, and cultural events. • Woodhaven Park is currently being redeveloped into one of Minnesota’s largest all-inclusive play spaces. Once completed (Summer 2021), the park will have amenities for a variety of user groups and needs. • By the Fall of 2021, Eagan will have added 17 dedicated pickleball courts to the park system, with 9 of those being lighted for additional hours of play. These courts have seen high use from early spring through late fall by users of all ages. • Patrick Eagan Park known for its recreational trails through the woods and wetlands, also added a nature style playground for users. Using trees scheduled for removal and other natural resources, city staff designed and built a play area to further connect users with nature. • A recirculating splash pad has been added near the Central Park pavilion, providing an addition to the parks system that provided users a free, zero-depth water experience. City Council Retreat Memo: Eagan Forward and Future Goals April 21, 2021 Page 6 • A Facilities Master Plan was executed, focusing on larger parks facilities. Cascade Bay, Eagan Art House, Eagan Civic Arena, Eagan Community Center as well as a potential indoor sports facility were all explored in detail for how they can further serve the community for the next 20 years. • Eagan modernized and improved its Police Department, Central Maintenance Facility, Fire Stations and City Hall through several remodeling efforts. Eagan has an updated brand • The City redesigned and replaced outdated and dilapidated monuments in Cedar Grove in partnership with private developers and with grant assistance from Dakota County. • The City’s new logo and facility sub-logos are prominently displayed through signage, art, water reservoirs, vehicles, publications, etc. • The City’s logo and brand is especially evident in our newly remodeled buildings, emphasizing our vibrancy. • Park shelter buildings throughout the system are being updated. Renovations included updated interior and exterior design to increase accessibility, functionality, and curb appeal. To date Bridle Ridge Park, Trapp Farm Park, Quarry Park and Sky Hill Park have all received updates with more scheduled in the 5-year Capital Improvement Plan. • Eagan Update is a video tool used to share key efforts with the community via ETV and social media. The short videos are resulting in thousands of views and many positive comments. • A large part of Eagan’s brand is our customer service and exceptional public information, both of which ranked in the top 10 nationally in comparison to other communities in the most recent residential survey. Eagan uses residents to put the plan to work • During the 2040 comprehensive planning process, the City provided information and gathered feedback at community events including Community Connections, the Big Rig Rally, Market Fest, and the Food Truck Festival. The City also held focus groups for Underrepresented Populations and Economic Growth and Reinvestment. • Diffley Road school-area improvements brought the community together through multiple in- person/online meetings, electronic interactions/input and information sharing to enable significant safety improvements for the betterment of pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers in the area of three community schools. • City Council and Advisory commissions meetings transitioned to virtual meetings, while continuing to provide a mechanism for public input. • The City launched a new engagement tool, Polco, which allows us to get feedback from residents, conduct surveys, etc. • Eagan residents, including the Senior group, sewed thousands of homemade masks, which were distributed by our Fire department. City Council Retreat Memo: Eagan Forward and Future Goals April 21, 2021 Page 7 Discussion/Public Policy Questions 1. Is there a desire to create new goals or a strategic plan for the coming year(s)? 2. How can the conversation from the Council’s retreat influence the key initiatives or goals for the coming year? Options for Next Steps Feedback from the Council is welcomed at the retreat. Should there be a desire to discuss new or different goals/strategic plans for the future, a discussion could be added to a future workshop. /s/ Dianne Miller Assistant City Administrator 1 Outcomes and Successes Since the Launch of Eagan Forward 2016-2019 Activities Strategy 1: Eagan is a Place for All People 2016 • Safe Summer Nights—In June 2016, over 500 people attended a free community event at Woodhaven Park held in partnership with the Dakota County Sheriff’s office. The event was intentionally located in an area of the community with diverse community members as a way for police and residents to interact with one another. • “Everyone Eagan”—Community volunteers collected and shared stories that showcase the residents of Eagan. The volunteers were trained by E-TV staff to operate video cameras and then recorded short stories provided by Eagan residents. Those stories will be shared with the broader community as a way to emphasize connections and understanding by highlighting the diverse backgrounds, passions, goals, dreams, and stories of the people of Eagan. Approximately 44 people were recorded telling their stories. • Build a Bike/Give a bike partnership with Thomson Reuters—Thomson Reuters employees built bikes and then gave the bikes to the City of Eagan Police to distribute to children in need throughout the community. Erik’s Bikes Shop inspected the bikes before they were given the City to distribute. • A first-ever Bollywood night was held at Market Fest in August 2016 • ISD196 and City staff are meeting regularly to promote one another’s programs and remove redundancy between the two entities ( e.g. Eagan is now promoting ISD196 open swim times in City publications) • Senior Safety Academy—6-week program offered by Eagan Police to provide education and crime prevention tips to the 55+ population • The Minnesota Autism Center (MAC) opened a new grade school (K-8) to service those with autism. A high school and college were added to serve students ages 13-21. A third expansion of the facility is approved for 2018. • Team 3 (Becoming a Welcoming and Inclusive Community) continues to sew welcome totes, filled with information about Eagan. Tote Sewing parties have occurred with the seniors, City employees, residents, and youth across the community. The totes are distributed to new residents as a way to welcome them to the community. The City provides them to new residents when they set up their utility accounts. • Expanded Circulation of “News from the Front Porch” senior newsletter from 550 to all Eagan households by combining the newsletter with the Discover Parks and Recreation publication (an effort of Team 1 to improve communication with senior citizens) 2 2017 • A splash pad (“spray ground”) at Central Park has been approved in the Parks and Recreation 2018 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). • Experience Eagan cover story with Top 10 list of things to know when you move into Eagan and a story about the welcome bags created by Team 3. • On March 4, 2017, the City hosted a new community-wide event, “Community Connections”. A marketing emphasis was made to attract new Eagan residents to the event (per Team 3 feedback). The event will happen again in 2018. • The Eagan Skate Park will be upgraded Spring 2018, changing from a modular to concrete system. The new design was created with input from skaters at the park. • The Police Department implemented a new hiring initiative to diversify the ranks of licensed police officers and attract non-traditional candidates. One new officer with a 4-year degree, but no law enforcement education, has been hired. After completing and graduating from a 14-week law enforcement training and passing the State’s licensing exam, new candidate was hired as law enforcement officers in Eagan. She is currently in the department’s 16-week training program. The goal is to remove barriers for people who may be interested in a career in law enforcement, but simply cannot afford to leave their jobs to go back to school. • The City purchased Language Line services, providing us with interpreting services for 250 languages from across the world. • A Culture of Learning Team has been established for City employees, with a focus on being more welcoming and inclusive, both internally at City Hall and in service to our residents. • Eagan residents and businesses are donating fabric towards the Eagan welcome totes project. • Three new senior developments are under construction: Affinity of Eagan (Cedar Grove-active senior, market-rate apartments), Stonehaven Senior Living (independent, assisted living, and memory care), and Applewood Pointe Senior Cooperative (Quarry Road) • Three new high-density residential developments are coming to Eagan: Quarry Road (183-unit market rate apartments), City Vue II (a second tower next to the 10-story City Vue I, formerly the BCBS building), and The Preserves of Eagan (Cedar Grove) • The Council authorized the creation of residential overlay districts to encourage reinvestment in residential neighborhoods and to upgrade the City’s housing stock. • In Fall 2017, the Eagan 50+ Seniors piloted a program of day, evening, and weekend social activities for working senior citizens. • The park shelter at Bridle Ridge has been reconstructed for greater community usage, including senior programming opportunities 3 2018 • Eagan PD participated in Community Conversation on Race in January 2018. Participants included the cities of Eagan, Apple Valley, Burnsville and Shakopee. The event was initiated when citizens of color reached out to Apple Valley to learn about relationships between the Police and the community. • Knowing Your Refugee Neighbor event held at ECC; Presentation by Refugee Resettlement Service of the MN Dept of Human Services. The event was co-sponsored by the City, Eagan 50+ Seniors, and MN Assoc. of Senior Services (MASS). • Southview Senior Living, a new continuum of care senior facility, is proposed for the intersection of Yankee Doodle Road and Lexington Avenue. • Glen Ponds Apartments expanded with additional buildings. • The City participated and graduated from the Local and Regional Government Alliance on Race and Equity (GARE), coordinated by the League of MN Cities. The program included monthly training sessions to learn more about the history, current realties, and best practices for advancing racial equity in our community. A baseline employee survey was conducted and training for employees on racial equity is scheduled in early 2019. 2019 • Rec scholarship program revised with equity lens. No longer limit scholarships to youth. All ages welcome. • Meeting your Muslim and Refugee neighborhood gathering • Interactive mtg with PD department and ISD 196 (through Comm Ed) on getting to know your PD Strategy 2: Eagan is a Healthy City 2016 • First bus shelters in Eagan were built on the north and south side of Duckwood Drive (by Walmart) and at Central Park Commons (on Yankee Doodle Road) • City Code was tweaked to make it easier for al fresco dining opportunities and the serving of alcohol in more local eateries, where appropriate • Bike racks were installed at Central Park Commons and access was made from the street for bikes to park next to HyVee. • Solar powered, electronic vehicle charging stations at HyVee • Solar panels providing electricity at Goat Hill Park 4 • CityVue Apartments recognized for largest multi-family renewable energy (solar) project in Minnesota. They also reduced their footprint and runoff by utilizing underground and ramp parking, and avoiding large impermeable surface parking. • Council passed a resolution encouraging pollinator-friendly best practices in the use of plantings and pesticides in all public spaces within the City. Eagan received the Pollinator Protection Award from the Pollinator Friendly Alliance to recognize our efforts. • Eagan Code amended to allow chickens, miniature pigs, and bees in residential areas (with appropriate rules and regulations) • Dakota County’s 17-mile Minnesota River Greenway planning is underway, with a vision to establish a greenway following the south side of the Minnesota River valley from Burnsville to St. Paul. The design work is underway, with the first leg of construction to occur in 2018 (trail from Lone Oak Road to 494). A trail/greenway is proposed from 494 to Black Dog Road, but no firm construction timetables have been established for the entire segment. • Xcel Energy converting Eagan streetlights to LED lights (to take place 2016-2019) • Easter Lutheran and other churches have been having ongoing discussions about homelessness in Dakota County and some have chosen to participate in the rotating shelter for extremely cold nights • All Saints Lutheran Church (Wescott and Lexington) provide a food for Woodland Elementary students to take home over the weekend and has food bins outside to both donate and take what you need • All LED lights used in the parking lots at Central Park Commons, powered by a single, 50-amp circuit. • Park recycling was expanded at Northview Park and Lexington/Diffley Athletic Fields. • Recycling containers at Central Park Commons were required in all public spaces as a condition of development. • In 2016, Dakota Valley Recycling purchased 52 new recycling containers and Dakota County purchased 25 additional recycling bins for the City of Eagan. The 77 new containers can be found at City parks, the Civic Arena, Cascade Bay, Fire Station #2, and the Central Maintenance facility. • The City added winter maintenance of the Highline Trail, Thomas Lake Park, and Central Park for recreational purposes beginning in winter 2016/2017. 2017 • Pedestrian and bicycling, active living, and access to healthy foods are being addressed in the 2040 Comprehensive Guide Plan. • Pocket park installed by CSM as part of Central Park Commons development. 5 • Eagan Seniors have provided copies of DARTS’ Dakota County Transportation Guide at the Eagan Community Center • Organics recycling added to City Hall, the Police Department, and the Civic Arena. The Community Center has offered organics recycling for several years. The Fire Safety Center (Station #2) will begin organics collection in 2018. • The City replaced 163 City-owned street lights on Yankee Doodle Road with LED bulbs. • The Council modified parking requirements in City Code for market rate apartments and senior living facilities to reduce surface parking that has been found to be underutilized. • Recycling containers were added at Central Park, and plans are underway in 2018 to add event recycling at Blackhawk Park. • New benches and year-round bike racks have been added at City parks and City Hall per feedback from the biking community and seniors. • Thanks to grant funding from the Metropolitan Council, rebates are being offered by the City to residents who purchase new, energy efficient front-loading washing machines. • Eagan joined a community solar garden in partnership with the Metropolitan Council. The solar garden is located at the Seneca Ash Landfill in Eagan. • In partnership with Eagan Forward, the Energy and Environment Commission and Dakota Valley Recycling teamed together to do two community showing of Just Eat It, a short movie about food waste. The events had a “Ted Talk” feel wherein residents could watch the short movie and then discussed how we as a community can work together to reduce food waste. • Eagan Park Runs every Saturday morning (free, timed 5K at Thomas Lake Park); entirely community/citizen-led. Eagan was 6th location in the country to organize. • A nature-play area and new, natural walking trails have been added to Patrick Egan Park per the recommendation of Team 4 (Amenities for families with school-aged children) • Cascade Bay now offers recycling • A new pickleball complex will open at Quarry Park in 2018. 2018 • An electric vehicle has been added to the City’s fleet within Community Development (Protective Inspections). A charging station has been set up at City Hall. • A question pertaining to biking is included in the 2018 residential survey. • The City adopted a solar ordinance to promote and regulate solar power installations. 6 Strategy 3: Eagan is Creative and Innovative 2016 • Council approved a franchise agreement with Century Link—bringing cable/high speed internet competition to Eagan; however, in March, 2017 CenturyLink and Level 3 merged and in April, 2018 the combined company now says it has no plans to expand Prism TV service. • iLAB Makerspace opens at Wescott Library • The City is encouraging Fiber to the Home (FTTH) deployments, most recently with CenturyLink with their Apical experiment. • Eagan artists offered Community Supported Art (CSA) “shares” to purchase. The success in 2016 lead to new CSA offerings in 2017. • Eagan’s Old Town Hall is restored with a combination of funding from the City, grant dollars, and donations from the community. • New light tower replaced old Sperry Tower. Led to CSA art piece by Nancy Wester depicting the new tower and the new image and wonder it creates on Eagan’s skyline. • In 2016 Eagan launched the Nextdoor app for specific geo-targeted neighborhood communication 2017 • The Council approved $20,000/year for public art installation through the Parks and Recreation Capital Improvement Plan. • The City’s went live on a new, modernized City website • The Council adopted a revised Sperry Tower Lighting Policy to provide public art and inclusive recognition of causes, celebrations, and holidays. • The Eagan Fire Department consolidated five stations into three and is expanding the number of full-time firefighters to augment the volunteer staff. • The City and Art Works Eagan (AWE) entered into a purchase agreement for AWE to buy the Fire Administration Building. AWE closed on the building on August 15. Credit to Art Works Eagan, its volunteers, and their leadership for raising funds and arranging private financing to purchase the building in order to open a Community Art Center and makerspace. • New fiber was installed at the Eagan Art House, resulting in Wi-Fi availability on site. • Four Eagan art benches are being installed across the City in September (following a design and community review process). More art benches to come in 2018. • The Eagan Art House was awarded a $12,500 grant for enhancing our senior art programming in Eagan. City staff will work with stakeholders to identify creative individuals and programs and work with this grant to enhance the lives of seniors in the Eagan community. 7 • A public art display of large butterflies, Reflected in Our Flight, was installed at the Eagan Outlet Mall in October. • New art exhibit, Reflected Light, on display across the community, celebrating the impact of artist Anthony Caponi on the community of Eagan. • “Welcome Home” Art Doors project underway as a result of a successful grant application. The project, showcased in September, celebrates the Eagan Art House’s 20th anniversary. • Eagan C.S.I. - The Police Department gave a community-wide presentation at Eagan High School regarding the investigation into the arson of Old Town Hall. The 3-hour presentation was captivating to the 500 residents who attended. Similar events will be planned in the future. • A plaza to recognize former City Administrator Tom Hedges opened on the grounds of the 1914 old Town Hall thanks to a $100,000 donation from John Nasseff and Helene Houle. • The Green Ribbon Initiatives awarded a $1,000 partnership award to Art Works Eagan, the City’s Parks and Rec Department, and several other community partners for their collaboration in finding Art Works Eagan a home and expanding the mission of creative arts in our community. • The City of Eagan is the first city in the state to pass a prescriptive grazing ordinance, allowing the use of goats on residential property to consume invasive species. • MN Center for the Arts completed an economic impact study on the arts specific to Eagan. • In 2017 Administrator Osberg and the Eagan budget team and police and fire chiefs held a Facebook Live chat with the community on the upcoming budget, answering impromptu questions received via social media. Eagan Television provided one of the first multi-camera Facebook Live events involving multiple inputs ranging from a budget video overview to charts pushed live to Facebook. • The 2017 Eagan State of the City was held at Bald Man Brewing and its brew master commented that Eagan water helps makes their beer taste good • Eagan’s City Administrator Dave Osberg was honored in May, 2017, as a city manager of the year with the Robert A. Barret Award for Management Excellence presented by the Minnesota City/County Management Association. 2018 • Vikings building new STEM center to include a Tech Accelerator to showcase students and young entrepreneurs seeking investors • Wind Horse, Eagan’s 18th public art installation, was installed at the intersection of Yankee Doodle Road and Pilot Knob Road, adjacent to the MVTA transit station. 8 • Seven “little libraries” built from scrap materials from the Bridle Ridge park shelters have been installed at 7 parks across the city (Bur Oaks Park, Caponi Art Park, Lexington Park, Rahn Park, Evergreen Park, Moonshine Park and Peridot Path Park). Seven more little libraries are planned for 2019 (Nature Play area at PEP, Sky Hill Park, Ridgecliff Park, Quarry Park, Northview park by Tennis complex, Wescott Commons Park, and Wescott Station. Strategy 4: Eagan is a Destination Community 2016 • Reach out to Lakewinds Food Co-op and Trader Joe’s for sites to consider in Eagan • Eagan Forward retail and restaurant goals shared with Blue Plate Group and Hospitality MN • Bald Man Brewing and Tap Room opened in Eagan (expansion plans currently being proposed) • 2nd annual food truck festival held September 2016—estimated 8,000 people in attendance • Eagan Forward Team leaders meeting with Vikings VP for Stadium Development in October 2016 to share vision and feedback for the proposed development • Sun Country Airlines relocated to Eagan 2017 • A new Movie in the Park feature was added in 2017, with three movies in the parks planned for 2018 • Complete Streets, urban village designation, redevelopment opportunities, public spaces, biking/walking improvements etc. are all being considered as the City prepares the 2040 Comprehensive Guide Plan update. • MN Vikings’ headquarters under construction; opening Spring 2018 • Central Park Commons stores and restaurants continue to open. Fairview Medical Center also open at Central Parks Commons. • Two large mixed use developments are currently under construction: CityVue II (market rate apartments, medical office, Chick-Fil-A) and Quarry Road (senior cooperative, market rate apartments, hotel, medical and Aldi Grocery Store) • Plans have begun to remodel the Police Department and City Hall to modernize both facilities and provide security for employees and vehicles. Construction to begin in 2018. • Summit Orthopedics opened a 70,000 square foot orthopedic health care facility • Additional development underway in Eagan includes: Home 2 Hilton hotel (Cedar Grove); Prime Therapeutics (Northeast Eagan, 409,000 square feet office in two phases); Vikings headquarters, indoor practice facility and stadium; Twin Cities 9 Orthopedic medical office building and sports medicine center; White House Custom Color campus; and, Comfort Inn hotel. • Per the recommendations of Eagan Forward, the City Council approved changes to City Code to encourage privately-organized community events by reducing and streamlining regulatory requirements. Likewise, changes were made to modify food truck regulations. • Union 32 Craft House opened in June, which offers the State’s largest self-serve pour wall. • The City’s 3rd annual food truck festival took place and was a hit once again, topping over 7,000 attendees. • Cedar Grove Transit Station on Highway 77 opened a new Center Station with a pedestrian walkway. • The City of Eagan received a national innovation award for a first of its kind communications tower. The new Sperry Tower illuminates the Eagan skyline, while also serving a functional need of creatively “hiding” communications equipment. It received the Crone Knoy Award for outstanding achievement in industrial coatings. • Yankee Tavern opened, following a significant private investment and remodeling effort into the former Valley Lounge site. • Costco has submitted an application to the City to build a store in Eagan, pending City Council and Met Council approvals. • Eagan was recently named the #1 financially healthiest city in Minnesota, according to the Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence when evaluating multiple factors from debt to revenues to maintaining capital assets. In May, 2017, Eagan led the Twin Cities in multifamily residential construction, and in two out of the last three years Eagan has had 33% of all the new retail development in the Twin Cities. 2018 • The Eagan Convention & Visitors Bureau added Doug Melnyk, a senior manager for corporate partnerships to the ECVB Board to aid destination development and the Bureau is working with them to identify and co-brand a photo op location that will showcase the Vikings and Eagan. • Worked with Paul Allen, MN Vikings play-by-play announcer to “hack” the State of the City speech and also to feature Eagan in 1-2 interviews. • Spots from the ECVB will air statewide on the Vikings Radio Network. • The Vikings hosted its inaugural Eagan Training Camp. Close coordination between the City and the Vikings, particularly regarding traffic, parking, and emergency services, led to a smooth and successful event. • Costco Wholesale is moving forward with development plans at I-494 and Highway 55. (Note: This is scheduled to go to APC August 28 and City Council in September). • A conference center hotel is being planned at Viking Lakes. 10 • Prime Therapeutics, home to 2,000 employees, opened their new, state-of-the-art campus. 2019 • Regal Cinema is reborn—new, upscale theater experience with restaurant and ax throwing. Strategy 5: Eagan has an Updated Brand 2016 • “Eagan” on NY Times crossword puzzle for the first time (previously Edina was the “E” suburb of Minneapolis/St. Paul frequently used) • Eagan launches use of Nextdoor and Instagram as additional avenues to communicate with residents • The City’s 2016 Residential Survey, administered by the National Research Center, compared Eagan to 400 other communities, including Plymouth, MN and Overland Park, KS, two cities used as benchmark communities in the Eagan Forward Plan. A total of 98% of Eagan residents rated Eagan as excellent or good as a place to live. Those results led to the City being nominated in three categories for Voice of the People awards in 2017. The City received an award for being one of the top three rated communities for the public’s feeling of being safe in our community. 2017 • Responding to the Eagan Forward recommendation to establish an updated city identity system and new logo to replace the “broccoli tree,” an Eagan resident and nationally known brand expert and graphic designer was retained to develop a new look. Drawing on research from previous resident surveys and feedback from the Eagan Forward initiative, a successful engagement process took place to get additional input from stakeholders on new City logo designs created by Allen Peters. • The City approved a new logo on August 15, 2017. The logo unveiling party took place in October. Implementation of the logo will take place over the next three years. 2018 • Implementation of the new city logo continued on signs, vehicles, and the first two of four water towers. Sub-logos for Cascade Bay, Civic Arena, Eagan Art House, Market Fest, Eagan Community Center, and ETV were designed and brought into the same brand family for a unified identity system, with corresponding style guide. • The City installed new gateway monuments in Cedar Grove in accordance with updated entry monument standards. 11 Strategy 6: Putting it to Work 2016 • Eight Eagan Forward study actions have met since February 2016 to develop their goals and start putting ideas into action; quarterly leadership meetings held. • The City has distributed all surveys of Eagan Forward teams, as requested, via the City’s social media and web platforms 2017 • The City is putting Eagan Forward into action with a renewed emphasis on reaching out to residents, neighborhoods, and stakeholders (and going where the people are, versus making them come to us) on projects and topics of interest (e.g. neighborhood meetings about possible uses for surplus fire stations, community focus group on the logo, and comp guide input sessions at City events.) • New Advisory Commission applications more than tripled after a strategic communications campaign, increasing the pool of applicants 95% in one year. • Eagan’s Web subscription database now amounts to 10,500 subscribers in 68 different content categories. • Eagan’s Facebook page engagement rate is consistently rated well for responsiveness and now reaches 9,400 people, the highest following rate in the Twin Cities area. • Eagan’s use of the Facebook event tab in 2017 has significantly increased listing of city events from the previous year. • The City has embraced three primary internal goals in 2017 (with corresponding work plans), which align with Eagan Forward. They are: 1. Become a technology-driven organization; 2. Embrace a culture of learning, inclusion, and fun; and, 3. Proudly provide services that meet the changing and evolving community we serve. 2018 • Over 30% of Eagan residents now use Nextdoor. The City actively sends messages to share information and further neighborhood engagement. • Attendance at Community Connections and the Big Rig Rally continued to grow. Several City departments participated at Market Fest’s Family Night. • Focus groups for Underrepresented Populations and Economic Growth and Reinvestment were held during the comprehensive planning process.