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)
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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
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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
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• 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.
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• 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.
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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.
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• 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.
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• 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
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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.
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• 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.
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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.