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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-07-10 EEC Meeting Packet Meeting location: Edina City Hall Community Room 4801 W. 50th St. Edina, MN Energy & Environment Commission Meeting Agenda Thursday, July 10, 2025 7:00 PM Accessibility Support: The City of Edina wants all residents to be comfortable being part of the public process. If you need assistance in the way of hearing amplification, an interpreter, large-print documents or something else, please call 952-927-8861 at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting. 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of Meeting Agenda 4. Approval of Meeting Minutes 4.1. Minutes 5. Special Recognitions and Presentations 6. Community Comment During "Community Comment," the Board/Commission will invite residents to share issues or concerns that are not scheduled for a future public hearing. Items that are on tonight's agenda may not be addressed during Community Comment. Individuals must limit their comments to three minutes. The Chair may limit the number of speakers on the same issue in the interest of time and topic. Individuals should not expect the Chair or Board/Commission Members to respond to their comments tonight. Instead, the Board/Commission might refer the matter to staff for consideration at a future meeting. 7. Reports/Recommendations 7.1. Work Plan Item 1, CAP Prioritization 7.2. Draft Revisions to the Tree Protection Ordinance 7.3. 2026-27 Commission Work Plan 8. Chair and Member Comments 9. Staff Comments Page 1 of 32 10. Adjournment Page 2 of 32 BOARD & COMMISSION ITEM REPORT Date: July 10, 2025 Item Activity: Approve Meeting: Energy & Environment Commission Agenda Number: 4.1 Prepared By: Chad Millner, Engineering Director Item Type: Minutes Department: Engineering Item Title: Minutes Action Requested: Approve Meeting minutes. Information/Background: Receive and approve June 12, 2025 Meeting Minutes. Supporting Documentation: 1. 06. June 12 EEC Minutes Page 3 of 32 MINUTES OF THE ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING 7:00 PM THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025 Meeting location: Edina City Hall Community Room 4801 W. 50th St. Edina, MN 1. Call to Order Chair Lukens called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. then shared the procedure for public hearing and community comment. 2. Roll Call Answering roll call were Commissioners Lukens, Haugen, Bartholomew, Tessman, Weber, and LaCasse. Absent were Commissioners Schima, Martinez, and student Commissioners Langsweirdt and Srivastav. 3. Approval of Meeting Agenda Bartholomew made a motion, seconded by Haugen, to Approve Meeting Agenda. Motion carried. 4. Approval of Meeting Minutes 4.1. Minutes Bartholomew made a motion, seconded by Tessman, to Approve Meeting Minutes. Motion carried. 5. Special Recognitions and Presentations 5.1. Welcome New Member Sloane LaCasse Commission welcomed new member LaCasse. 6. Community Comment No community comment was received. 7. Reports/Recommendations 7.1. 2026-27 Commission Work Plan Liaison Millner reviewed work plan process and schedule. Noted July 15 City Council joint meeting. EEC requested 2-3 ideas for the 26-27 work plan from staff where staff capacity may be lacking and requested the edited CAP spreadsheet by the end of June so they can think about work plan ideas. 7.2. Work Plan Item 1, CAP Prioritization Page 4 of 32 Liaison Gabb reviewed staff suggested revisions to the CAP in transportation and planning. EEC requested to better understand what education and community outreach the Police Department / City is doing around E-Bikes. EEC discussed and provided comments. 8. Chair and Member Comments Member Lukens requested extending the application date of the green business outreach program by one month. 9. Staff Comments 9.1. Tree Ordinance Update Liaison Millner provided a schedule update on revisions to the tree protection ordinance. Draft revised ordinance coming to EEC in July. Staff seeking official feedback in August. 9.2. GreenCorps Member Update Liaison Gabb provided an ever-changing status update on the program. 10. Adjournment Haugen made a motion, seconded by LaCasse, to Adjourn. Motion carried.Meeting adjourned at 8:53 p.m. Page 5 of 32 BOARD & COMMISSION ITEM REPORT Date: July 10, 2025 Item Activity: Discussion Meeting: Energy & Environment Commission Agenda Number: 7.1 Prepared By: Matthew Gabb, Sustainability Specialist Item Type: Other Department: Engineering Item Title: Work Plan Item 1, CAP Prioritization Action Requested: Receive information. Provide comments. Information/Background: EEC Work Plan Item 1 is a "review and comment" on Staff's work to re-prioritize Climate Action Plan actions. Staff will present information each month for ease of review by the EEC. This meeting will include a review of "Greenspace & Trees" sector actions. City Forester Luther Overholt and Assistant City Forester Laura Beres will join the meeting to answer questions. Supporting Documentation: 1. To EEC - GS, Greenspace Actions Page 6 of 32 GS - Greenspace and Trees Sector EEC REVIEW COMMENT, JULY 2025 CAP Label Envisio Status Description Prioritization Status City Role Division Lead Budget Staff Capacity Staff Notes EEC Comments GS 1-1 Completed Explore the integration of trees into a Stormwater Credit Program to increase trees and manage stormwater.Complete At point of permit, city engages in conversation about tree planting and is included in the MCWD rules for commercial development. GS 1-2 Upcoming Conduct a Solar and Tree Compatibility study to actively identify the best sites in the city for tree canopy expansion as well as the best locations for solar pv installations. Following study, work to direct and encourage tree planting and solar pv development in areas identified. Complete City completed a Solar Feasibility Study for all city sites that evaluated tree canopy conflicts via Action BE 8-1. Forestry Division already pursues tree canopy expansion in areas of need based on existing gaps in canopy and other factors (e.g., extreme heat, adjacent to NOAH properties). Additional study not needed. GS 1-3 Completed Identify strategic locations for increased tree planting capable of meeting long-term canopy goals and develop long range implementation program based on the City's 2021 Ground Cover, Tree Canopy, and Carbon Sequestration Study and the goals of this CAP. Establish incentives for tree planting that ensure all socio-economics groups have access to tree and nature while achieving tree canopy goals. Prioritize tree replacement programming in neighborhoods based on factors outlined in the study including those with low income households, vulnerable populations, street and boulevards with less than 30% sidewalk/curb length shade coverage, and neighborhoods that will be most impacted by urban heat island effect and Emerald Ash Bore loss. Ongoing Lead Forestry Grants Existing capacity Operationalized through NextGen Trees program that prioritizes tree planting near affordable housing developments and extreme heat areas. Shade Tree Bonding Grant addresses Emerald Ash Borer replacement on public property. Pursuing grants for private property EAB. GS 1-4 On Track Update City’s Landscape ordinance to include a minimum tree coverage per lawn area or per impervious surface coverage for all new construction or expansion projects. Explore options for decrease of turf grass/lawn coverage and increase of wildflower/prairie grass coverage requirements. Keep, No Change Lead Planning n/a Existing capacity Edina City Code addresses this action in different sections. Sec. 10-82 establishes protection of trees for residential new construction and expansion projects, as well as replacement requirements. Sec. 30-94 allows for restoration areas and removes setback requirements if the restoration area is controlled. Sec. 36-438 includes a maximum impervious surface requirement. City Code to be updated to include additional tree protection for nonresidential development. Page 7 of 32 GS - Greenspace and Trees Sector EEC REVIEW COMMENT, JULY 2025 CAP Label Envisio Status Description Prioritization Status City Role Division Lead Budget Staff Capacity Staff Notes EEC Comments GS 1-5 Completed Update current tree preservation ordinance requirements to protect tree root systems and large legacy trees during construction. Explore options for increases in legacy tree protection and increases in performance based requirements of tree planting within parking lots. Complete Tree Protection Ordinance updated in 2022. GS 1-6 Upcoming Establish a Greenspace Property Tax Credit / or Saleable/tradeable greenspace credits to incentivize property owners to increase green infrastructure, greenspace, and carbon sequestration in line with the goals of this CAP. Remove City not pursuing additional tax credits or facilitation of saleable/tradable credits related to development. Staff exploring if this is even legally feasible. GS 1-7 Upcoming Prioritize planting and preservation of native species of plants and trees and species of plants and trees adaptive to climate change on public and private property through education, incentives and other promotional programs. Ensure that landscaping requirements articulated in the zoning code include the preservation of the maximum possible number of existing trees, the use of native plantings and the preservation of natural areas whenever possible. Keep, Change Lead Parks & Recreation Facilities Levy Grants Bonding Existing capacity Change to include "climate adaptive" more consistently over "native" planting. This is an ongoing initiative with Parks and underlying divisions actively implementing with prioritizing climate adaptive and native species where feasible. Parks Master Plans including native and adaptive species. Grants or funding needed to fully implement planting vision if not originally budgeted. Prioritize planting and preservation of climate adaptive and native species of plants and trees and species of plants public and private property through education, incentives and other promotional programs. Ensure that landscaping requirements articulated in the zoning code include the preservation of the maximum possible number of existing trees, the use of climate adaptive and native plantings, and the preservation of existing natural areas whenever possible. GS 1-8 On Track Update the City’s approved street tree guide and landscape design standards to establish a Climate Adaptive Planting list for tree and plant species appropriate for a future local climate. Also include a list of invasive species and resources for identification and removal. Use guide for all city owned properties and promote its use for residential and commercial properties. Complete All new construction building permits are required to use the Hennepin County tree list to select new trees for any residential or commercial project, which includes native and adaptive species. Forestry Division directs inquiries to this list and ordinance is written to be at discretion of City Forester. Page 8 of 32 GS - Greenspace and Trees Sector EEC REVIEW COMMENT, JULY 2025 CAP Label Envisio Status Description Prioritization Status City Role Division Lead Budget Staff Capacity Staff Notes EEC Comments GS 1-9 Upcoming Update the City's Ground Cover, Tree Canopy, and Carbon Sequestration Study every 2 to 5 years to evaluate progress on the City's greenspace and ground cover goals and to adjust implementation plans. Keep, No Change Lead Parks & Recreation Sustainability Budget Needed Existing capacity City will need to allocate budget or secure grant funding to update study. Focus would likely be a tree inventory and study. Potential opportunity to connect with Hennepin County's inventory updates. GS 2-1 On Track Complete a Land Conversion Opportunity Study supporting the ground cover goals included in this CAP. Analyze public and private property for unused turf and impervious areas, and create a Ground Cover Conversion Implementation plan to convert to native plant and pollinator restoration areas, permaculture areas, wetlands, shrub, tree coverage or urban agriculture uses with goals by census tract. Include goals and an implementation plan to meet or exceed the CAP goals for tree, native pollinator area, and lawn conversion for City owned properties. Goals should be weighted by heat island, water runoff, and equity needs. Identify incentive opportunities and establish an outreach campaign. Keep, No Change Lead Forestry Parks Levy Grants Budget needed for private property study Existing capacity City will need to allocate budget or secure grant funding to complete a comprehensive study focused on private property. City currently completes turf conversion ad-hoc via various projects and is considered during Park Master Planning processes (e.g., Fred Richards Park). Conversion on public property could benefit from story telling and education. GS 2-2 Completed Remove and ease lawn/grass requirements in ordinances.Complete Ordinance 2023-07 amends regulations related to turf maintenance and setbacks. GS 2-3 On Track Install roadside pollinator vegetation that creates effective barriers to prevent drifting of air pollutants to adjacent schools and residences. Priorities should be given to locations with increased air quality and micro heat island impacts and elevated flash flood potential. Ongoing Support Parks & Recreation Levy Grants Existing capacity Roadside vegetation managed by MnDOT and Hennepin County on majority of roads. City to support those organizations in managing their easements. City managing city easements/boulevards with invasive species removal and new seeding and vegetation. GS 2-4 Completed Manage city-owned natural areas to enhance and maintain diverse native communities, increase green infrastructure, implementation of best practices for stormwater management, increased plant diversity, and improved pollinator-friendly habitat. Ongoing Lead Parks & Recreation Levy Grants Existing capacity Operationalized through Parks Maintenance operations. GS 2-5 Completed Manage city-owned lawn/turf areas to enhance and maintain diverse native communities, increases turf replacement with native wildflower and prairie grasses, increased plant diversity, improved pollinator-friendly habitat, and Carbon Gardening practices including elimination of synthetic fertilizer and pesticide use, high mow deck settings, use of biochar amendments, and polyculture lawn mixture. Ongoing Lead Parks & Recreation Levy Grants Existing capacity Operationalized through Parks Maintenance operations. Page 9 of 32 GS - Greenspace and Trees Sector EEC REVIEW COMMENT, JULY 2025 CAP Label Envisio Status Description Prioritization Status City Role Division Lead Budget Staff Capacity Staff Notes EEC Comments GS 2-6 On Track Establish a policy to require the use of native plants in landscaping at City-owned properties. Continue natural vegetation conversion for passive park areas. Add 110 Acres of native plant and pollinator restoration area on City Property by 2040. Keep, Change Lead Facilities Parks n/a Existing capacity Development underway. Update wording to say "climate adaptive" not native. Establish a policy to require the use of climate adaptive plants in landscaping at City-owned properties. Continue natural vegetation conversion for passive park areas. GS 2-7 On Track Establish a policy and Identify, create, and promote incentives to assist homeowners and households with low incomes by covering some of the cost of converting traditional lawns by planting pollinator friendly food gardens, permaculture, wildflowers, clover or native grasses in an effort to slow the collapse of the state’s bee population. Keep, No Change Lead Sustainability Budget needed Existing capacity Grant application to BWSR for a local grant making program not awarded in 2024. Will explore new opportunities in 2025 when additional grants are available. GS 2-8 On Track Develop educational and informational resources providing information on benefits of and strategies for reduced and repurposed lawn space including: native plantings, "carbon gardening" strategies for ornamental gardens, and produce gardens, tree profile rebuilding, elimination of synthetic fertilizer and pesticide use, high mow deck settings, use of biochar amendments, polyculture lawn mixture and other beneficial greenspace practices included in this CAP. Ongoing Lead Sustainability Parks & Recreation Communications Conservation & Sustainability Fund Existing capacity Operationalized through ongoing engagement on city channels and partners. Staff applied for BWSR grant to enhance this outreach but not awarded in 2024; staff to continue identifying grant opportunities. GS 2-9 On Track Establish and effectively manage native-habitat corridors along trails and utility easement areas to restore and maintain landscape connectivity. Complete For city-owned properties, action implemented through GS 2-4, G2 2-5 and GS 2-6. City has shared climate adaptive planting priorities with private utility providers and external agencies that manage utility and trail easements not owned by City. GS 3-1 On Track Develop a "Green Roof" / "Green Wall" pilot project to educate on and exhibit heat island mitigation strategies and measure potential for effectiveness. Identify city building with low solar PV prioritization/feasibility for inclusion as pilot project location. Alternatively, pilot program could be advertised for submission by City of Edina residents, businesses and neighborhoods for potential sites to be considered for pilot project selection. Preference should be given to sites serving low income or at risk communities with high heat island impact potential. Complete Pilot project completed at North Ramp in 50th and France district. City learned challenges to implementation to consider for future sites and pilots. Pilot activities can be part of existing Action BE 1-9: Explore, create, and promote incentives for cool roofs and green roofs. Page 10 of 32 GS - Greenspace and Trees Sector EEC REVIEW COMMENT, JULY 2025 CAP Label Envisio Status Description Prioritization Status City Role Division Lead Budget Staff Capacity Staff Notes EEC Comments GS 3-2 On Track Develop a "Cool Roof" / "Cool pavement" pilot project to educate on and exhibit heat island mitigation strategies and measure potential for effectiveness. Identify city building with low solar PV prioritization/feasibility for inclusion as pilot project location. Alternatively, pilot program could be advertised for submission by City of Edina residents, businesses and neighborhoods for potential sites to be considered for pilot project selection. Preference should be given to sites serving low income or at risk communities with high heat island impact potential. Complete Reclamite pavement sealer product was installed and data collected on performance. Results of the study will be forthcoming. This item will be added to future Engineering workplan and inform GS 3-5. GS 3-3 Completed Promote the expansion of tree canopy in urban heat islands or areas that need air conditioning such as schools. Prioritize efforts based on City's 2021 Ground Cover, Tree Canopy, and Carbon Sequestration Study. Collaborate with school district, regional agencies, or institutions to identify and implement a pilot project, including community educational and interpretive content. Ongoing Lead Forestry ARPA Shade Tree Bonding Grant Existing capacity Operationalized through NextGen Trees program that prioritizes tree planting in extreme heat areas. More grants will be needed starting in 2027. GS 3-4 Upcoming Explore development of green roof incentives (demonstration projects, voluntary programs, incentivized program, ordinance / policy) to meet long-range dark impervious surface reduction goals. Examples of incentive programs have been developed by the Climate Protection Partnership Division in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Atmospheric Programs. Remove Duplicative from Action BE 1-9: Explore, create, and promote incentives for cool roofs and green roofs. GS 3-5 On Track Evaluate on-going pilot programs for cool paving materials to determine whether the City should establish a cool paving policy. Keep, No Change Lead Engineering Levy Existing capacity Related to pilot results from GS 3-2. Evaluation and future sites to be part of future Engineering work plan. GS 3-6 Upcoming Explore creation of a Heat Island Reduction Incentive and Award program prioritizing areas of the City with the highest heat island coefficients as identified in the City's 2021 Ground Cover, Tree Canopy, and Carbon Sequestration Study. Incentives and awards from governments, utilities, and other organizations can be an effective way to spur individual heat island reduction actions. Incentives might include below- market loans, tax breaks, product rebates, grants, and giveaways. Awards can reward exemplary work, highlight innovation, and promote solutions across the public and private sectors. Keep, Change Lead Sustainability Budget needed Existing capacity Update wording to be a specific action and focus on de-paving incentive program. Identify funding source and create new incentive- based program for private property pavement removal (e.g., depaving). Prioritize commercial and industrial areas, and neighborhoods with highest rate of extreme heat impacts. Page 11 of 32 BOARD & COMMISSION ITEM REPORT Date: July 10, 2025 Item Activity: Information Meeting: Energy & Environment Commission Agenda Number: 7.2 Prepared By: Chad Millner, Engineering Director Item Type: Report & Recommendation Department: Engineering Item Title: Draft Revisions to the Tree Protection Ordinance Action Requested: Receive draft revisions and provide formal comments at the August EEC Meeting. Information/Background: Staff is providing the draft revisions to the tree protection ordinance and seeking formal comments from the EEC at the August Meeting. Supporting Documentation: 1. Staff Recommendations for EEC Review July 10 2025 2. Pages from 2024-06-04 City Council Meeting Packet (1) Page 12 of 32 Changes to Tree Ordinance Already Implemented The following changes were approved by City Council and adopted into the Ordinance June 4th 2024: Topic Discussion Ordinance Changes 1. Chapter 10 Zoning Clarification Specify which specific zoned properties are to be compliant under the ordinance The language for properties Zoned R-1 and R-2 (residential) was added to the ordinance. 2. Exemptions for heavily wooded lots Establish unbuilt lots with exemptions for tree removal or alleviate burden. The definition of an Unbuilt lot was added to the ordinance. With exemptions for any tree to be removed without mitigation within specific parameters. 3. Developers use of a Certified Arborist Require developers at certain permit valuation to have an Arborist complete the tree inventory. This helps lessens the discussions about what a healthy tree is. Any New Home permit with valuation over $500,000 or any project over $100,000 is required to have an ISA Certified arborist complete the tree survey and inventory. A credit up to $2,500 will be given to the applicant for the cost of the arborist. 4. Replacement requirements On-site Allow for tree replacements requirements to be met with off-site planting With approval for City Staff, tree replacements may be fulfilled by planting off-site from the subject property. 5. Reduce Escrow holding time Reduce the 36-month escrow release date A reduction to 12 months after the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy for the second half of the escrow release was changed in the ordinance. Page 13 of 32 Changes To Discuss with Edina Energy and Environment Commission for Amending Tree Ordinance Discussion Topic Update Goal Staff Recommendation 6. Creation of Off Site Planting Guidelines Prescribe goals for off-site planting priorities. Prioritize preserving existing trees or planting on-site, with the following priorities for off-site planting: 1) Homeowner preserves existing trees on the subject property 2) If preservation is not possible, developer plants replacement trees on-site 3) If on-site planting is not possible, developer plants replacement trees on private property, as close as possible to the subject property a. To facilitate this, the City will create a “Canopy Connect” database of residents interested in planting trees on their property 4) If all previous options are not possible, the City uses the escrow for tree planting and preservation fund a. City Owned Public property may not an option due to limited capacity. 7. Define exemptions for unique circumstances Recognize and define what a unique circumstance that would warrant “exemption” from ordinance Exemptions to be included in ordinance: 1) Existing trees causing current damage to existing structures (e.g., building foundation, public street or sidewalk). Damages would need to be verified and documented by a licensed professional. 2) “Unique Circumstance Exemptions” to be verified and documented by a licensed professional include these Unique Circumstances and would be based upon the subject property, and would limit the homeowner’s ability to meet tree replacement requirements: a. Steep slopes: Slopes equal to or steeper than three feet horizontal to one Foot vertical (3:1) b. Utility Easements, both public and private c. Potential flood risk areas as indicated in the storm water management plan Page 14 of 32 Update Timeline: July 10, 2025 – EEC Discussion and Comments August 14, 2025 – EEC Discussion and Recommendation September 2, 2025 – City Council Review Staff would have the ability to verify the above exemptions and deviate up to 15% of replanting requirements to be reduced. 8. Species Specific Replanting Ratio Requirements Allow for deviation in species type from “same for same” planting to meet requirements. To promote species diversity at least 80% of the replacements must be similar species types (e.g., “same for same”) and the remaining 20% of replacement requirements can be met with planting different tree types. 9. Measuring Methodology Select a particular methodology to be applied universally. Measuring Existing trees: DBH as defined by the MN DNR Measuring New trees: ANSI Standards Z60., This will be laid out in the ordinance and difference with these references. 10. Property Classification Zoning Application Incorporate the other property types into the ordinance - commercial, etc. Amend Edina City Code to include additional zoning districts (PCD, POD, PID, PUD, PRD and MDD). 11. DBH Threshold for calculating removals Size threshold exemptions of tree DBH for counting Staff recommends keeping at 5 inches and 15 feet. This change was made by EEC for the 2023 ordinance to account for the loss of smaller but equally beneficial trees. Page 15 of 32 Date: June 4, 2024 Agenda Item #: IX.C. To:Mayor and City Council Item Type: Report / Recommendation From:Cary Teague, Community Development Director Item Activity: Subject:Ordinance No. 2024-04: Amendment Regarding Tree Protection Action CITY OF EDINA 4801 West 50th Street Edina, MN 55424 www.edinamn.gov ACTION REQUESTED: Approve Ordinance No. 2024-04 amending the tree protection ordinance, and waive second reading. INTRODUCTION: Based on the feedback from City Council at the May 21, 2024 City Council Work Session, City staff has drafted an ordinance amendment to address some of the issues that were identified. This ordinance amendment is intended to be the first step at addressing all the issues that have been raised. The next steps that will take more time in developing will include examination of potential modification of the escrow calculation; review unique lot circumstances such as steep slope, wetlands, poor soils, and utility easements; criteria for deviation or review process; consider further ordinance amendments including specific commercial regulations per the EEC work plan. ATTACHMENTS: Description Staff Report Ordinance No. 2024-04: Amendment Regarding Tree Protection Page 16 of 32 Based on the feedback from City Council at the May 21, 2024 City Council Work Session, City staff has drafted an Ordinance Amendment to address some of the issues that were identified. This Ordinance Amendment is intended to be the first step at addressing all the issues that have been raised. The next steps that will take more time in developing will include examination of potential modification of the escrow calculation; review unique lot circumstances such as steep slope, wetlands, poor soils, and utility easements; criteria for deviation or review process; consider further Ordinance Amendments including specific commercial regulations per the EEC work plan. Summary of the attached draft Ordinance Amendment: 1. Clarification that the Ordinance applies to properties that are zoned R-1 and R-2. 2. Provides a definition of an “unbuilt lot.” 3. Exempts “unbuilt lots.” Protected and Heritage trees may be removed without mitigation on a) unbuilt lots within 10 feet of the proposed building pad, deck or patio; b) within 5 feet of driveway; c) within 10 feet of infrastructure improvements including public roadways, stormwater retention areas and utilities. 4. Requires an ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) certified Arborist. 5. Escrow or letter of credit length is reduced from 36 months to 12 months. June 4, 2024 Mayor and City Council Cary Teague, Community Development Director Ordinance No. 2024-04; An Ordinance Amendment Regarding Tree Protection Information / Background: Page 17 of 32 STAFF REPORT Page 2 6. Tree replacement may be fulfilled by planting trees at a different site (public or private land) from the site, subject to City staff approval. 7. Establishes a cap on the escrow or letter of credit at $50,000.00. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends the Council approve Ordinance No. 2024-04 and waive second reading. Page 18 of 32 Existing text – XXXX Stricken text – XXXX Added text – XXXX ORDINANCE NO. 2024-04 AN ORDINANCE AMENDMENT REGARDING TREE PROTECTION The City Council Of Edina Ordains: Section 1. Chapter 10, Article III of the Edina City Code is amended as follows: DIVISION III. TREE PROTECTION Sec. 10-82. Preservation, protection and replacement of Protected Trees. This division applies to the following permits and land use applications on properties that are zoned R-1 and R-2: grading permits, demolition permits, subdivisions applications, building permit applications for principal and accessory structures including a garage, deck or a pool; and additions to principal and accessory structures. This division does not apply to city parkland, which follows tree protection guidelines outlined in Edina's Comprehensive Plan and City Park Master Plan. (1) Purpose. Edina is fortunate to have a robust inventory of mature trees that form an integral part of the unique character and history of the city, and that contribute to the long-term aesthetic, environmental, and economic well-being of the city. The goal of this section is to preserve Edina's high valued trees, while allowing reasonable development to take place and not interfere with how existing property owners use their property. The purpose of the ordinance is to: a. Preserve and grow Edina's tree canopy cover by protecting mature trees throughout the city. b. Protect and enhance property values by conserving and adding to the distinctive and unique aesthetic character of Edina's tree population. c. Protect and enhance the distinctive character of Edina's neighborhoods. d. Improve the quality of life for all stakeholders, including city residents, visitors and wildlife. e. Protect the environment by the filtering of air and soil pollutants, increasing oxygen levels and reducing CO2; preventing and reducing erosion and stormwater by stabilizing soils; reducing heat convection; decreasing wind speeds; reducing noise pollution and decreasing the urban heat island effect. f. Protect and maintain healthy trees in the development and building permit processes as set forth herein; and prevent tree loss by eliminating or reducing compacted fill and excavation near tree roots. (2) Definitions: a. Protected tree: Any tree that is structurally sound and healthy, and that meets one of the following: i. A deciduous tree that is at least five inches dbh, except box elders, poplar, willow, silver maple, black locust, fruit tree species, ash, and mulberry. Page 19 of 32 Existing text – XXXX Stricken text – XXXX Added text – XXXX 2 ii. A coniferous tree that is at least 15 feet in height. b. Removable tree. Any tree not defined as a protected tree, and as defined as an invasive species by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. c. Critical root zone. The minimum area around a tree that is left undisturbed. The critical root radius is calculated by measuring the tree's diameter at breast height. For each inch of tree diameter, one and one-half feet of root zone radius must be protected. For example, if a tree's dbh is ten inches, then its critical root zone radius is 15 feet (10 × 1.5 = 15). If the critical root zone of a tree on site or an adjacent property must be disturbed for construction or construction activity, a plan for the disturbance shall be submitted as part of the tree protection plan subject to review and approval of the city forester to minimize the damage. d. Diameter at breast height (dbh). The dbh shall be measured at a height of four and six-tenths feet. e. Transplanted tree. A protected tree which is removed from a lot and replanted to another private lot or a public space in Edina. f. Heritage tree. A protected deciduous tree above 30 inches dbh and a protected coniferous tree taller than 30 feet. g. Unbuilt Lot: An existing or newly created lot, with a unique address that has not had a primary residential structure. (3) Applications for all permit types identified in section 10-82 must include a tree protection plan indicating where protected and heritage trees are located and, their species, caliper, and health. The plan must show how protected and heritage trees are preserved and protected during construction. The plan must also show if any protected or heritage trees are proposed to be removed and the location, species and size of all replacement tree(s). The tree protection plan should be coordinated with the stormwater management plan; proposed and protected trees should be shown on the stormwater management plan to ensure no conflicts. (4) If a protected tree is removed, it must be replaced with trees equal to at least 75 percent of the deciduous dbh and 75 percent of the coniferous height in feet, as applicable, subject to the following conditions: a. Protected trees must be replaced with species of a similar type (deciduous or coniferous) according to Part (11) that are normally found growing in similar conditions and that are included in Hennepin County's "Recommended Tree List." b. Replacement trees must not be subject to known epidemic diseases or infestations. Disease or infestation resistant species and cultivars are allowed. c. Replacement trees must be at least three and one-half inches in caliper for deciduous trees and a minimum of eight feet tall for coniferous trees. d. Replacement tree plans are subject to approval by the city forester before implementation. e. The tree protection plan shall be verified at the time of final inspection for the building permit. Page 20 of 32 Existing text – XXXX Stricken text – XXXX Added text – XXXX 3 f. Failure to replace protected trees on site results in a payment fee of $300.00 per dbh below 75 percent of the dbh removed, or $300.00 per coniferous foot below 75 percent of the foot removed. (5) If a heritage tree is removed, it must be replaced with protected trees at least 100 percent of the dbh or coniferous feet, subject to the following conditions: a. Heritage trees must be replaced with species of a similar type (deciduous or coniferous) that are normally found growing in similar conditions and that are included in Hennepin County's recommended tree list (xlsx). b. Replacement trees must not be subject to known epidemic diseases or infestations. Disease or infestation resistant species and cultivars are allowed. c. Replacement trees must be at least four and one-half inches in caliper for deciduous trees and a minimum of ten feet tall for coniferous trees. d. Replacement tree plans are subject to approval by the city forester before implementation. e. The tree protection plan shall be verified at the time of final inspection for the building permit. If the protection plan is not in compliance, the inspection may not be approved. f. Failure to replace heritage trees results in a payment fee of $500.00 per deciduous dbh below 100 percent of the dbh removed, and as applicable, $500.00 per coniferous foot below 100 percent of the coniferous feet removed. (6) Protected and Heritage Trees may be removed without mitigation on unbuilt lots as defined above, in the following areas: a. Including, and within a ten-foot (10’) radius of, the building pad, deck or patio. b. Including, and within a five-foot (5’) radius of driveways. c. Including, and within ten-foot (10’) radius of installation of infrastructure improvements including public roadways, stormwater retention areas and utilities. (7) The Tree Survey for any new home construction permit above $500,000 and any project valuation over $100,000 in estimated value is required to be completed by an ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) Certified Arborist. An allowance shall be given to the applicant up to $2,500 for the costs of the Arborist and that amount would be deducted from the applicant’s escrow. (6) (8) Before construction, grading or land clearing begins; city-approved tree protection fencing, or other method must be installed and maintained at the critical root zones of the trees to be protected. The location of the fencing must be in conformance with the approved tree protection plan. The fencing must be inspected by city staff before site work begins. The fencing must remain in place until all demolition and construction is complete. Page 21 of 32 Existing text – XXXX Stricken text – XXXX Added text – XXXX 4 (7) (9) No construction, compaction, construction access, stock piling of earth, storage of equipment or building materials, or grading may occur within the critical root zone areas of trees to be protected, unless there are no other on- site alternatives. If there are no other alternatives, a plan for this activity would need to be reviewed and approved by the city forester and included in the tree protection plan. A reasonable effort must be made when trenching utility lines to avoid the critical root zone. (8) (10) When construction is complete all trees to remain must have the soil out to their drip line aerated and de-compacted. Aerating must include multiple concentric circles of one-inch holes, two inches deep, or as recommended by an arborist. (9) (11) If protected trees and/or heritage trees were removed within one year prior to the date the development, subdivision application, demolition, grading and building permit applications were submitted, these protected trees and/or heritage trees are also subject to the replacement policy set forth in paragraphs (4) and (5) above. (10)(12) Any tree transplanted on-site shall not be counted as a protected tree or heritage tree under this section and therefore does not require replacement under this section, provided it is viable at 36 months 12 months after the permit's final inspection per Part (12). (11)(13) Amount of required replacement trees in (4) and (5) above shall be a variety of types and sizes as demonstrated below. Species shall comply with Hennepin County's "Recommended Tree List." (14) Tree replacement may be fulfilled by planting trees at a different site from their home. The different site can be private or public land, at the choice of the City staff. City controls where the planting will happen and the species of the trees that will be planted. Deciduous (dbh) Coniferous (in feet) Lot size<1 acre Lot size>/=1 acre 3½” or greater 8’ or greater 70% 50% 4½” or greater 10’ or greater 20% 25% 5½” or greater 12’ or greater 10% 25% Page 22 of 32 Existing text – XXXX Stricken text – XXXX Added text – XXXX 5 (12)(15) Financial Guarantee. a. The city shall, at its option, require cash escrow or a letter of credit satisfactory to the city in the amount of 110 percent of the value of the tree replacement identified in the tree protection plan, securing the full performance of tree protection plan. The amount of such security shall be calculated by the fees described in Parts (4)f and (5)f. The maximum cash escrow or letter of credit shall be $50,000. b. Release of financial guarantee. The financial security shall be released based on the following schedule: i. Upon issuance of a certificate of occupancy and approval by city forester that the tree protection plan has been met: forester will inspect the site and calculate actual fee owed based on how much dbh preserved or replaced on site. The original escrow or line of credit, minus this fee, is 50 percent released at this time. ii. Thirty-six months after issuance of certificate of occupancy, an applicant must submit a landscape review by a certified arborist, indicating planted and preserved trees are still healthy. If any trees are found to be unhealthy, the certified arborist can replace these trees onsite and the balance of the financial guarantee (50 percent of financial guarantee net of fees in Part a) are released at this time. If the applicant does not opt to replace trees onsite, these fees are considered owed to the city and retained permanently. Section 2. This ordinance is effective immediately and will apply to existing permits. First Reading: Second Reading: Published: ATTEST: __________________________ _____________________________ Sharon Allison, City Clerk James B. Hovland, Mayor Please publish in the Edina Sun Current on: Send two affidavits of publication. Bill to Edina City Clerk CERTIFICATE OF CITY CLERK Page 23 of 32 Existing text – XXXX Stricken text – XXXX Added text – XXXX 6 I, the undersigned duly appointed and acting City Clerk for the City of Edina do hereby certify that the attached and foregoing Ordinance was duly adopted by the Edina City Council at its Regular Meeting of June 4, 2024, and as recorded in the Minutes of said Regular Meeting. WITNESS my hand and seal of said City this ______ day of ____________, 2024. ________________________________ City Clerk Page 24 of 32 BOARD & COMMISSION ITEM REPORT Date: July 10, 2025 Item Activity: Discussion Meeting: Energy & Environment Commission Agenda Number: 7.3 Prepared By: Chad Millner, Engineering Director Item Type: Other Department: Engineering Item Title: 2026-27 Commission Work Plan Action Requested: No action. Information/Background: Edina Boards & Commissions are moving to a 2-year work plan cycle. EEC will create a 2026-27 work plan this year, including participating in a City Council work session to discuss priorities. EEC should discuss work plan priorities ahead of this meeting. Priorities should be as specific as possible but do not need to be tied to a specific council charge yet. Liaison Bayer prepared a list of ideas based on previous commission discussions, suggestions from community comment or special presentations and staff suggestions. Supporting Documentation: 1. Staff Memo, Commission Work Plan Transition 2. Guide to Commission Charges Page 25 of 32 City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424 Background The City Council establishes boards and commission to increase resident engagement in city work and provide opportunities for residents to serve the community and participate in meaningful work. Currently, the work plan process is conducted on an annual basis. For up to six months, commissions simultaneously work on their current initiatives while discussing and developing a new annual work plan. Work plan development starts in June and final work plans are approved in December. There were no proposed adjustments to the 2024 work plan process. Starting in 2025, commissions will transition to a two-year work plan process. Purpose The purpose of adjusting the timeline allows better connection of work plan initiatives to the organization’s overarching strategic priorities, long-term objectives and available resources. The goal is to make work plan initiatives more intentional and include the budget values (Sustainability, Stewardship, Engagement, Equity, Health). Two-year work plans provide the opportunity to adopt a phased approach and allocate time to ensure each aspect of a project or task is executed and implemented effectively. Commissions are asked to continue to keep their work plans to 4-5 work plan items and use a phased approach for work plan items. For example, a commission will use year one to study and report and in year two, develop recommendations if directed by Council after the study and report. This alignment will provide focus, track progress, adapt to evolving needs and optimize our resources to deliver impactful results. Administration Department EdinaMN.gov Date:December 16, 2024 To:Commission Members cc:Staff Liaisons From:MJ Lamon, Special Projects & Engagement Manager Subject:2025 Commission Work Plan Transition June - August •Work Plan Development October •Chair presents proposed work plans November •Staff presents proposed changes December •Council approves work plans Page 26 of 32 City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424 1. Strategic Alignment: Strategic alignment ensures that the budget and work plans are directly tied to the organization’s overarching goals and objectives. It involves mapping resources and planned actions to strategic priorities, ensuring all efforts contribute to long-term success and addressing the community's needs effectively. 2. Prioritization & Resource Allocation: Prioritization and resource allocation focus on ranking initiatives and distributing available resources—such as funding, personnel, and time—according to their importance and impact. This process ensures that the most critical and high-value projects receive the necessary support while balancing constraints and competing demands. 3. Phased Approach & Completion: A phased approach breaks down the work plan into manageable stages aligned with realistic timeframes and resource capacities. This approach acknowledges the limits of what individuals or teams can achieve within a two-year period, prioritizing tasks to avoid overcommitment. Each phase sets clear, attainable goals, ensuring steady progress while maintaining quality and efficiency. Completion emphasizes finalizing deliverables for each phase before advancing, promoting accountability and the feasibility of meeting long-term objectives. Highlighted Changes •Commissions develop two-year work plans •Divide commissions into two groups and annually four commissions will develop their two-year plan while the other group will do a review and update, if needed •Adjust the purpose of joint work session meetings with Council to focus on discussion around development of the two-year work plan. Council will be asked to provide more direction on projects for the upcoming work plan. Timeline Group 1 = HRRC, CHC, ACC, PARC Group 2 = HPC, EEC, ETC, PC 2025 2026 June-Aug • Group 2 Joint Meetings with Council Aug-Sept • Group 1 work plan review & amendments Sept-Dec • Group 2 Develop Two-year Work Plan June-Aug • Group 1 Joint Meetings with Council Aug-Sept • Group 2 work plan review & amendments Sept-Dec • Group 1 Develop Two-year Work Plan Page 27 of 32 Guide to Commission Council Charges Created January 2025 Purpose: The following definitions outline the purpose, requirements, and expected outcomes for each of the five council charges: Review and Comment, Study and Report, Review and Recommend, Review and Decide, and Events. These charges guide commissions in fulfilling their roles effectively and ensuring alignment with council expectations. Council Charge 1: Review & Comment 2: Study & Report 3: Review & Recommend 4: Review & Decide 5: Event Level of Impact Council Charge 1 Review & Comment Commission Role The commission provides feedback on specific proposals, plans or city documents. The feedback may include productive feedback, identification of gaps, or suggestions for improvements. Requirements • Thorough review of materials provided • Discussion to compile diverse community perspectives • Submission of written or verbal comments within a designated timeline Purpose To ensure Council decisions are informed by a range of perspectives, enhancing the quality and inclusiveness of policies and plans. Commission Vote No vote unless Advisory Communication report is written. Advisory Communication report requires majority vote. Commission Recommendation No official recommendation is provided to Council or staff. Commission Deliverable Commission comments provided to city staff. Written comments should be submitted in the form of an Advisory Communication. Verbal comments will be collected by staff. Commission Deliverable Requirements • Summary of reviewed materials • Key comments or critiques provided by the commission • Any areas of uncertainty identified during the review process Staff Deliverable Comments included with item sent to Council. Staff Deliverable Requirements • Written attachment or verbal comments included staff report Presentation to Council None Council Action None Council Communication Review & Comment No Council Vote Commission Comments included in staff report or written report submitted with project docs. Increasing impact on decision Page 28 of 32 Guide to Commission Council Charges Created January 2025 Council Charge 2 Study & Report Commission Role The commission is tasked with conducting a detailed examination of a specific issue or topic. This involves gathering data, consulting with staff or impacted parties, and analyzing findings to produce a comprehensive report. Requirements • Define the scope and objectives of the study • Research using credible sources, including input from staff or impacted parties, case studies and expert opinions. Veryify information with multiple sources • Develop a structered report with findings, analysis and conclusions Purpose To provide council with in-depth insights and evidence-based options that helps council decide on navigating complex issues. Commission Vote Majority vote required for commission report. Commission Recommendation No official recommendation is provided to Council or staff. Commission Deliverable Report to Council or staff. Commission Deliverable Requirements • Detailed methodology of the study • Key findings, supporting data and analysis • A study and report should focus on presenting data and analysis without formal recommendations Staff Deliverable If item goes to council, staff report and/or item report. Staff Deliverable Requirements • Additional data and any relevant city policies applicable to the topic not already cited • Identify budget and staff resource impacts. • If there are actionable next steps for staff, ask Council to refer study to staff Presentation to Council Optional. City Council Special Presentation or scheduled Joint City Council Work Session. Possible Council Actions 1. None 2. Receive and refer to staff 3. Direct commission to review and recommend (charge 3) Council Communication: Study & Report No Council Vote Presentation Special Presentations & Recognitions Joint Work Meeting with Council No Presentation Commission Correspondence Page 29 of 32 Guide to Commission Council Charges Created January 2025 Council Charge 3 Review & Recommend Commission Role The commission is tasked with evaluating options, proposals or policies to provide a formal recommendation to the Council. Requirements • Assess all relevant materials and data • Consider potential impacts and community needs • Present formal recommendations to council, including rationale and supporting evidence Purpose To assist the Council in selecting the most effective or beneficial course of action by leveraging the commission analysis and community perspective. Commission Vote Majority vote required for Advisory Communication Commission Recommendation An official recommendation is provided to Council. Commission Deliverable Advisory Communication Commission Deliverable Requirements • Overview of evaluated options or proposals • Pros and cons of each option • Final recommendation with justification and alignment to city goals Staff Deliverable Staff report and/or item report Staff Deliverable Requirements • Staff must provide recommendations • Identify impacts including staff time, operational impacts, policy changes, etc. Presentation to Council A presentation is encouraged. Representatives of the commission are responsible for creating materials and presenting them to city council. Staff are in a support role. Possible Council Action 1. None 2. Receive and refer to staff 3. Majority vote by Council (approve, deny) Council Communication Review & Recommend No Council Vote No presentation Commission Correspondence Presentation Special Awards & Recognitions Council Vote Presentation Report & Recommendations Page 30 of 32 Guide to Commission Council Charges Created January 2025 Council Charge 4 Review & Decide Commission Role The commission has the authority to make final decisions on specific matters within its purview, as delegated by Council. Requirements • Ensure decisions align with established policies, guidelines and legal requirements • Ensure decisions are made based on thorough evaluation of relevant data, policies and staff/expert advice • Document and communicate the decision and justification to Council Purpose To allow commissions to take independent action on small initiatives within their scope, such as presenting awards, participating in community outreach, and collaborating with neighboring commissions. Commission Vote Majority vote required for Advisory Communication Commission Recommendation None Commission Deliverable Advisory Communication Commission Deliverable Requirements • Summary of decision and its rationale • References to relevant policies or guidelines • Any anticipated impacts or next steps Staff Deliverable Staff report and/or item report Staff Deliverable Requirements • Provide staff perspective • Provide procedural guidance if necessary Presentation to Council Optional. City Council Special Presentation or scheduled Joint City Council Work Session. Council Action None Council Communication Review & Decide No Council Action Presentation Special Presentations & Recognitions Joint Work Session Meeting No Presentation Commission Correspondence Page 31 of 32 Guide to Commission Council Charges Created January 2025 Council Charge 5 Event Commission Role This charge involves planning, organizing, and executing events that align with the commission’s mission and council’s goals, such as community outreach, educational programs or celebratory gatherings. Requirements • Develop a detailed event plan, including objectives, budget requests, and logistics using event planning template • Coordinate with presenters, vendors, organizations, and volunteers • Evaluate the event’s success, gather participant feedback and provide a post-event summary or report to Council Purpose To foster community engagement, raise awareness about key issues and strengthen the relationship between council and the public. Commission Vote Majority vote for event plan only. Commission Recommendation None Commission Deliverable Advisory Communication Commission Deliverable Requirements • Event objectives and intended outcomes • Coordination and attendance at the event • Evaluation Staff Deliverable Progress update should be recorded on the work plan progress portal. Staff Deliverable Requirements • Event summary • Considerations for future years Presentation to Council None Council Action None Council Communication Events No Council Action No Presentation Commission Correspondence Page 32 of 32