2018-04-05 Planning Comm Agenda Packet Special Meeting
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
PLANNING COMMISSION
SPECIAL MEETING WORKSHOP
APRIL 5, 2018
6:30 PM - Mendota Heights City Hall
1101 Victoria Curve
Mendota Heights MN 55118
[Please note this meeting will not be televised]
1. Call to Order / Roll Call
2. Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update
3. Adjourn
Auxiliary aids for persons with disabilities are available upon request at least 120 hours in advance. If a notice of less
than 120 hours is received, the City of Mendota Heights will make every attempt to provide the aids, however, this may
not be possible on short notice. Please contact City Hall at 651.452.1850 with requests.
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INTRODUCTION &
BACKGROUND
The City of Mendota Heights has a long history and
commitment to planning, resulting in unique
residential living environments and business centers .
The City’s first Comprehensive Plan was adopted in
1960, many years before the Metropolitan Land
Planning Act went into effect, which required
communities to incorporate regional policies and
guidelines into their plans. The City has used its
Comprehensive Plan to guide decisions for these past
68 years. And the community looks much like it was
envisioned in 1960, with an emphasis on high quality
residential neighborhoods, open space and parks,
and well-planned commercial and industrial areas.
The community is almost fully developed and is enjoying the fruits of its long-
range vision and development policies. Infill properties will continue to be built
out, following the community’s successful development philosophy, and
redevelopment is now happening in select areas, also following the City’s
commitment to provide a high quality of life for its residents and businesses. The
City understands its role as part of the greater Metropolitan Region and will
continue to plan accordingly. The City has adopted the following Vision and
Mission Statements to guide planning and development:
Vision Statement
Mendota Heights will be recognized as a high quality,
family-oriented residential community, with a spacious,
natural feel and the amenities of a city.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to preserve and enhance the quality of life
in Mendota Heights by providing quality public safety,
infrastructure, and planning for orderly and sustainable
growth.
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Plan Organization
This 2040 Comprehensive Plan is organized in chapters similar to the previous
2030 Comprehensive Plan, but with new chapters on Economic Development
and Resilience, arranged as follows:
1 Introduction & Background
2 Land Use
3 Transportation
4 Parks & Open Space
5 Housing
6 Economic Development
7 Resilience
8 Implementation
Goals and policies for each chapter are included within that chapter and also as
one combined set in Appendix X.
Setting
Mendota Heights is located in northern
Dakota County, bordering the Minnesota and
Mississippi Rivers. The City of Lilydale and
the City of Mendota border the City on its
northwest side. Across the rivers are the
cities of St. Paul and Minneapolis, Fort
Snelling and the Minneapolis-St. Paul
International Airport (MSP). The east is
bordered by Delaware Avenue and the cities
of West St. Paul and Sunfish Lake. Interstate
494 divides Mendota Heights from Eagan to
the south. Interstate I-35E
Despite being near to these major business
centers, the community is able to maintain a
comfortable, natural, open appearance. The
river bluffs, rolling topography, and wooded
areas have provided an excellent setting for residential development. The
topography has led to the creation of a curvilinear local street system and
allowed for intimate residential neighborhoods to be nestled amongst mature
wooded settings, lakes, wetlands, nature preserves, and the Mississippi and
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Minnesota River bluffs. Mendota Heights is a premier suburb, offering high-
quality residential and business areas. Per capita income and average property
values area among the highest in the area, but homes in more moderate price
brackets are also available.
The residents of Mendota Heights enjoy close proximity to an extensive system
of regional and local parks, and convenient access to the regional highway
system, international airport, and metropolitan employment centers. These
factors have helped make Mendota Heights an attractive place to live and enable
it to maintain a quiet, private way of life.
While it is centrally located in the metropolitan area, the Minnesota and
Mississippi Rivers form a natural green belt around it, allowing the community to
maintain a quiet, private way of life, unique in the Twin Cities. Mendota Heights
achieved its successful business community and exceptional residential
neighborhoods by following the detailed comprehensive plans set forth many
decades ago. Innovative and forward thinking on the part of community officials
has resulted in a planned community, which affords a high-quality lifestyle for its
residents while providing a full array of services and employment opportunities.
The community has preserved an abundance of parks and open spaces,
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encourages spacious residential development, and has planned for diversified,
high technology offices and business areas. Excellent schools and a well-
educated populace complement the traditional but progressive character of the
City. Civic pride and aesthetic excellence are high priorities in Mendota Heights.
The community set out early in its incorporated history to create attractive
residential neighborhoods by planning for aggressive protection and wise use of
its abundant environmental assets. The rich abundance of woods, wetlands, and
open space areas that provide the natural feel of the community today, are a
testament to the forethought and planning of Mendota Heights’ forefathers. As
the Twin Cities metropolitan area has grown up around it, Mendota Heights has
actively pursued its objective of preserving the open spaces, which have made
the community one of the region’s most attractive places to live. Whether these
efforts have been concentrated in active or passive uses, the environment has
played a central role in the City’s land use planning.
Mendota Heights has many spacious, green neighborhoods
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Process
The process of updating the
Comprehensive Plan for Mendota
Heights was initiated in late 2016
when Stantec, the City’s planning
consultants, began updating
background information and
demographics for the Plan. They
also worked with Tangible
Consulting who prepared a report
analyzing the market and
development context of the City. A
background report was shared with
the Planning Commission in early
2017.
In a series of meetings later that year, the Planning Commission reviewed and
adopted the draft Vision, Mission, and Goals & Policies for the Plan. This material
was shared with the Parks Commission and with the larger community in four
community open house meetings in the fall of 2017. There was also an online
survey and an invitation for comments on the City website and Facebook page.
Facebook was used to share information and
invite comments on the planning process
Discussion at a community open house
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Key Planning Issues
The initial discussion with the Planning Commission, grounded in the background
information and analysis, was condensed into seven key planning issues:
• Character, Natural Feel, Design
Mendota Heights is open, spacious,
green, natural. The character and design
of our community is important to maintain
our quality of life. The environment and
green space is essential to this character.
• Commercial/Retail Options
Many people wish there were more
restaurant and shopping options in
Mendota Heights.
• Development & Redevelopment Sites
The City is almost fully developed, but there are a few sites where new
development or redevelopment can occur and there is keen interest in
how to maximize their potential.
• Housing
Mendota Heights is mostly high-end single-family homes, but the City
also needs a range of housing choices to provide life-cycle opportunities
for people of all generations and stages of life, and work force housing to
support people working in a wide range of careers.
• Vikings Facility
The Vikings football team is building its new headquarters and practice
facilities nearby in Eagan, within a 200-acre mixed use development
featuring offices, retail, and housing. Many are concerned about traffic
impacting Mendota Heights. On the business side, the Vikings
development could be competition for City businesses or an opportunity
for Mendota Heights businesses to support activities there.
• Airport
The MSP Airport is conveniently located nearby across the river, but also
poses a nuisance with aircraft noise.
• Infrastructure
Like many communities, Mendota Heights’ roads, bridges and other
infrastructure is aging and in need of maintenance. The City must plan
for this in order to preserve quality of life and safety.
The key planning issues are interrelated
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Community Input
There were over a hundred comments and stories offered in the various open
house meetings and the online survey at the beginning of the planning process.
All of the comments and survey results are summarized in Appendix X,
Engagement Results.
The comments have been grouped into eight topics as illustrated below in the
blue boxes: Character, Environment, etc. These topics relate strongly to the Key
Planning Issues identified above, as indicated by the arrows connecting similar
ideas. Taken together, these issues and topics represent the ideas that will be
the guiding force shaping the Comprehensive Plan Update. These issues are
reflected in the Goals and Policies in the Plan as well.
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Regional Planning Designation
The regional planning area designation and related policies identify the
Metropolitan Council’s expectations for the amount, location, and standards for
development. A community’s planning area designation is based on its location,
amount of developable land, existing development patterns, planned land uses
and availability of infrastructure. The Metropolitan Council’s Thrive MSP 2040
Plan designates Mendota Heights as “suburban.” Suburban communities
experienced continued growth and expansion during the 1980s and early 1990s,
and typically have automobile-oriented development patterns at significantly
lower densities than in previous eras.
Metropolitan Council’s Community Designations map for Mendota Heights
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Developed Communities
Community designations are intended to guide regional growth and development
to areas that have urban infrastructure in place and the capacity to accommodate
development and redevelopment and establish land use expectations including
overall densities and development patterns. The Metropolitan Council forecasts
that “Suburban” communities will account for 22 percent of the region’s
population growth, 27 percent of its household growth, and 43 percent of
employment growth over the next three decades. The following specific
community roles have been identified by the Metropolitan Council in the 2040
Thrive MSP plan to be incorporated into the comprehensive plan:
Orderly and Efficient Land Use
• Plan for forecasted population and household growth at overall average densities
of at least 5 units per acre, and target opportunities for more intensive
development near regional transit investments at densities and in a manner
articulated in the 2040 Transportation Policy Plan.
• Identify areas for redevelopment, particularly areas that are well-served by
transportation options and nearby amenities and that contribute to better
proximity between jobs and housing.
• In collaboration with other regional partners, lead major redevelopment efforts.
• Lead detailed land use planning efforts around regional transit stations and other
regional investments.
• Plan for and program local infrastructure needs (for example, roads, sidewalks,
sewer, water, and surface water), including those needed to accommodate future
growth and implement local comprehensive plans.
Natural Resources Protection
• Integrate natural resource
conservation and restoration
strategies into the comprehensive
plan.
• Identify lands for reclamation,
including contaminated land, for
redevelopment and the
restoration of natural features and
functions.
• Integrate natural resources restoration and protection strategies into local
development ordinances.
• Develop programs that encourage the implementation of natural resource
conservation and restoration.
Water Sustainability
• Implement best management practices to control and treat stormwater as
redevelopment opportunities arise.
• Explore alternative water supply sources to ensure adequate water resources
beyond 2040.
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Housing Affordability and Choice
• Designate land in the comprehensive plan to support household growth forecasts
and address the community’s share of the region’s affordable housing need
through development and redevelopment at a range of densities.
• Plan for a mix of housing affordability in station areas along transitways.
• Use state, regional, and federal sources of funding and/or financing and
development tools allowed by state law to facilitate the development of new
lifecycle and affordable housing.
• Plan for affordable housing that meets the needs of multigenerational
households.
Access, Mobility, and Transportation Choice
• Develop comprehensive plans that focus growth in and around regional transit
stations and near high-frequency transit services, commensurate with planned
levels of transit service and the station typologies (for example, land use mix,
density levels) identified in the 2040 Transportation Policy Plan.
• Develop local policies, plans, and practices that improve pedestrian and bicycle
circulation, including access to regional transit services, regional trails, and
regional bicycle corridors.
• Seek opportunities to improve local street and pedestrian connections to improve
access for local trips.
• Consider implementation of travel demand management (TDM) policies and
ordinances that encourage use of travel options and decrease reliance on single-
occupancy vehicle travel.
• Engage private sector stakeholders who depend on or are affected by the local
transportation system to address local business needs such as routing, delivery,
and potential land use conflicts.
• Adopt development standards that improve the user experience, circulation, and
access for bicyclists and pedestrians.
• Adopt Complete Streets policies that improve safety and mobility for all road
users.
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Economic Competitiveness
• Identify appropriate areas for business and industrial expansion, considering
access by rail, truck, plane, and barge.
• Support the cleanup and reuse of contaminated land by utilizing regional, county,
and local funding programs and financing tools.
• Preserve, remediate contamination, and repurpose the industrial base for higher-
intensity employment and new industries.
• Protect sites for highway-, river-, and rail-dependent manufacturing and freight
transportation needs from incompatible uses and identify local land supply and
transportation needs for effective use of those sites.
• Plan for land uses that support the growth of businesses that export goods and
services outside the region, important regional economic clusters, and living
wage jobs.
• Conduct small area planning efforts to preserve locations for employment,
manage growth, and minimize land use conflicts.
Building Resilience
• Identify and address potential vulnerabilities in local infrastructure as a result of
increased frequency and severity of storms and heat waves.
• Participate in federal, state, and local utility programs that incentivize the
implementation of wind and solar power generation.
• Consider making a property-assessed clean energy (PACE) program available
for conservation and renewable energy.
• Consider promoting the development or use of community solar gardens (CSGs)
by public and private entities to enable fuller and more economic use of the
community’s solar resource, including participating as subscribers, assisting in
marketing CSG opportunities for economic development, or providing sites for
gardens.
• Adopt local policies and ordinances that encourage land development that
supports travel demand management (TDM) and use of travel options.
• Consider development standards that increase vegetative cover and increase the
solar reflective quality of surfaces.
• Participate in urban forestry assistance programs as available.
Mendota Office Center
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Community History
Mendota Heights has a long and rich
heritage, which serves as a source of
identity for the community. Mendota
Heights is located near the confluence of
the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers.
Early Native Americans (Mendota
Mdewakanton Dakota Community)
viewed the area as an important meeting
place. Pilot Knob (now City-owned
property) overlooks the confluence of the
Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers. It was
considered sacred by the Dakota who
called it Oheyawahi, “the hill much
visited.” Pilot Knob was named by
riverboat pilots as the landmark overlooking Fort Snelling, the first American for t.
The Europeans called the area St. Peter, or St. Pierre, during the time that Fort
Snelling was constructed in the 1820s. However, the name of the area was later
changed to Mendota, which in Dakota means, “meeting of the waters.”
Fur traders established a trading post in the early 1830’s within what is now
Mendota Heights. The trading post, coupled with Fort Snelling located across the
river, formed the basis for one of the first settlement areas in Minnesota. During
the period from 1837 to 1853, the Dakota ceded large tracts of land to the
Pilot Knob, Mouth of the St. Peters River, painting by Seth Eastman ca. 1866
Taoyateduta, chief of the
Mdewakanton Dakota, ca. 1850
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settlers who tilled the land and operated dairy farms. Gradually, individual homes
began to appear along the St. Paul border in the north and in the hills above
Mendota Township in the west. Between them were farms, country schools, and
estates. The population of Mendota Township in 1860 was 454. The area grew
slowly to 1,360 at the start of World War II. St. Peter’s Church was built in 1853
atop the bluff overlooking the rivers and is the oldest church in continuous use
within Minnesota.
Several trails crossed the area,
including the Mission Trail. It
connected the river to the Dakota
Village at Kaposia, which is present
day South St. Paul. Dodd Road, the
first military road through the region,
was completed in 1849 and
connected the community to St.
Peter. Dodd Road currently bisects
the City and continues to provide a
north-south travel artery throughout
the community. The Old Mendota
Road, which is now Highway 110,
provided for east-west travel through
the area. The Minnesota Central, the
first Dakota County railroad, later the
Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul, ran
through Mendota Township, crossing the Minnesota River, and carried supplies
to Fort Snelling. The Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis, and Omaha Railway was
also an early railroad in the area.
Following World War II, farmers began to sell lots for individual homes and
acreage for residential subdivisions. Home construction increased rapidly,
particularly in the northern section of the township and by 1950, the population
totaled 2,107. The Township of Mendota was established in 1858, and was
eventually divided into two separate towns. Mendota was chartered in 1887 and
incorporated in 1936. The remainder of the township was incorporated as
Mendota Heights in 1956.
Interstate 494 comprises the southern border of Mendota Heights. Its intersection
with Interstate 35E acts as a primary “gateway” into the community, as does
Highway 55 as it crosses the Mendota Bridge, the Interstate 35E/Mississippi
River crossing and Highway 110, as it enters the community from the east. The
Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers and steep bluffs along with the natural open
spaces of Fort Snelling State Park, Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge,
Lilydale Regional Park, Dodge Nature Preserve, and Olivia T. Dodge Nature
Center provide a greenbelt that surrounds and infiltrates Mendota Heights . The
Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis & Omaha railroad depot in Mendota, ca. 1890
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location of these features and places is illustrated on the Community Facilities
map, located on page 26.
The natural and open space areas, when combined with the 290 acres of
community parks, three golf courses, Rogers, Augusta, and Le May Lakes, and
with the naturally rolling terrain and mature woodlands, create the appealing
“natural open” setting of the City. These features and spaces are located
adjacent to the major roadways and as such, create a unique, natural setting for
small, intimate neighborhoods. The views of the River Valleys from adjacent
bluffs and bridge crossings are
nothing less than spectacular.
The predominance of scenic,
natural vistas and corridors
within a community located so
close to the core of the Twin
Cities is truly unique within the
Metropolitan Region. This
being the case, the City of
Mendota Heights considers it
paramount to protect and
enhance the natural living
environment for its residents.
Rogers Lake in Mendota Heights
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Development History
Early History
The river topography and landscape of bluffs, ravines, views, lakes, and wooded
areas have provided attractive settings for residential settlement. Mendota
Heights was a part of Mendota Township until the Village of Mendota Heights
was incorporated in 1956.
1957 to 1977
The first Land Use Plan for Mendota Heights was adopted in 1959 . Its purpose
was to guide public and private development to achieve balanced residential and
commercial/industrial growth, in order to assure the availability of tax funds for
schools and public services. At that time, 21% of the land (exclusive of golf
courses and cemeteries) was developed.
The City’s history of early land planning established a clear and well-defined
pattern for future land uses. The 1959 Plan identified the following needs:
• The need for additional east-west thoroughfares;
• The need for community connections across future I-35E;
• The designation of a business/industrial area in the southwest corner of
the City;
• The desire to limit commercial “strip” development; and
• The decision to continue the semi-rural character of the residential areas.
Many of the major objectives of the 1959 Plan came to fruition as the Plan was
largely followed over the ensuing years. In the twenty-year period from the late
1950’s to the late 1970’s, St. Thomas and Visitation schools were established
(1955-56); Fort Snelling State Park was established (1961); the I-35 bridge into
St. Paul was built (1971); Henry Sibley High School was built (1971); and in
1974, Mendota Heights became a city. Overall, an additional 40% of the land
area was developed, most of it to establish new residential areas.
1977 to 1997
The land use pattern initially laid out by early comprehensive plans was clearly
established along with several transportation improvements. Both I-35E and I-
494 were built during this period. I-35E was extended in both directions, into
downtown St. Paul and south into Burnsville. I-494 was constructed along the
southern border of the City and replaced Highway 110 as the primary east-west
route.
In this period, United Properties began the development of the Mendota Heights
Business Park, and several areas designated for residential were developed
throughout the City.
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The availability of the Interstate routes did relieve local roadways of some traffic,
particularly in the cases of Highway 110 and Highway 149. The accessibility of
the Interstate routes also more clearly established distinct neighborhoods in the
community. The 1959 Land Use Plan emphasized the importance of east-west
routes and planned crossings at Marie Avenue, Mendota Heights Road, and
Wagon Wheel Trail, all of which were built more than 20 years later.
Aircraft traffic noise from
flights over Mendota Heights
dramatically increased in this
period as well, due to the
growth and expansion of the
airline industry and the
Minneapolis-St. Paul
International Airport. The
increasing number of flights,
larger aircraft, and expanded
use of the runways over the
Mississippi River corridor,
continue to impact the land
use and living environment of
the southern part of the
community. The Metropolitan
Airports Commission (MAC)
actually bought out one
neighborhood and created a
flight path corridor, near
Acacia Cemetery, within Mendota Heights. Homes were removed and the area
was re-developed for industrial uses. Other residential areas were part of the
Part 150 Sound Insulation program, receiving funds to upgrade windows and
insulation in existing homes. New residential neighborhoods have been built with
additional sound insulation and modified building techniques.
Total operations at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP)
increased from 230,793 in 1972 to 483,013 in 1998, more than doubling. This
increase in flights, along with expansion of the flights over the new residential
areas and outside of the flight corridor, has adversely affected many
neighborhoods of the City.
The City put forth considerable time and effort to reduce aircraft noise and
operations over the City, establishing an Airport Relations Commission (ARC),
participating in the Dakota County Airport Relations Commission (DCARC), and
the Metropolitan Aircraft Sound Abatement Council (MASAC) and adopting a
Noise Attenuation Ordinance.
MSP International Airport, located across the Minnesota River
west of Mendota Heights
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1998 – 2007
From 1998 to 2006, the City issued 436 residential building permits. Of those,
259 were for single family homes. In 2003, the City saw the most development
during this period, with a total of 125 residential permits issued during that year.
A number of significant projects reshaped Mendota Heights during this time. The
most visible is the Village at Mendota Heights, a mixed-use development at the
northeast intersection of Trunk Highway 110 and Dodd Road. The City acquired
the property to create an urban town center that includes a senior residential
facility, townhomes, and intensive commercial surrounding an open space plaza.
The second significant change is the Summit of Mendota Heights, a mixed
residential development consisting of townhomes and a multi-story condominium.
This facility is located on the former site of the Ecolab research building at Sibley
Memorial Highway and Wachtler Avenue. Another residential project is the
Hidden Creek development, a residential plat of generally one-acre lots on a
portion of the “superblock”, an area of larger acreage properties which have had
minimal previous development activity.
Two other projects have involved the City’s activity in avoiding development, and
retaining existing open space. The Mendota Heights Par 3 Golf Course had
operated as a privately-owned facility for many years, until the owners proposed
to close the 17-acre facility and develop the property into approximately 30 single
family lots. After some struggle, ending with a successful referendum, the City
purchased the golf course and is now operating the facility as a municipal course.
Perhaps the most important project also involves the City’s decision to spend
public dollars to preserve the Pilot Knob area, just off the Mendota Bridge
between Acacia Cemetery and Trunk Highway 55. After a series of development
The Village at Mendota Heights (Photo: Damon Farber)
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proposals for this property were turned away or withdrawn, the City joined with
other public entities, including Dakota County and the Minnesota Department of
Natural Resources, and purchased a number of large parcels totaling 25.5 acres.
The land will be retained as open space, and is currently being restored to its
pre-development environment. The property has historical and cultural
significance on many levels, including a sacred site for native people, a nearby
gathering area for the 1862 transfer of the Minnesota Territory lands to the U.S.
government, and the “pilot knob” landmark for steamboats approaching the
confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers.
2008-2017
Since the last Comprehensive Plan was prepared a number of significant
developments have taken place in Mendota Heights. The economic recession
from 2007 to 2012 impacted development cross the Twin Cities, including
Mendota Heights and there was little development activity during those years, but
coming out of the recession there was some significant activity.
The Mendota Plaza Shopping Center at Highway 110 and Dodd Road saw a
major renovation during this period, with a 15,000-square-foot Walgreen’s
pharmacy added in 2012 and the 50-unit assisted living complex, White Pine
Senior Living, in 2014.
Also at Mendota Plaza, a new 4-story 139-unit apartment project is being
constructed in 2018 on by Paster Properties and At Home Apartments. It is the
first new market-rate project in Mendota Heights in thirty years. The project will
also include 11,000 square feet of commercial space in two buildings sharing the
site with the apartments.
New apartments at Mendota Plaza (rendering courtesy of At Home Apartments)
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The Vikings football team’s new headquarters and surrounding development in
nearby Eagan has generated considerable discussion and may affect Mendota
Heights in a number of ways. Located just off the southeast edge of Mendota
Heights, it will include the teams’ corporate offices, practice facilities, 6,500-seat
stadium, athletic clinic, team Hall of Fame, and ancillary offices, hotels, retail,
restaurants and housing on the 200-acre site.
While no major roadway projects have been built recently, one of the major
highways in Mendota Heights is being renamed. Beginning in the summer of
2018, Highway 110 will be renamed Highway 62, acknowledging it as an
extension of Highway 62 that now starts on the west side of the Mendota Bridge
and extends west through Minneapolis and other suburbs to I-494 in Eden
Prairie.
Vikings facility in Eagan under construction, 2017 (photo: Leila Navidi)
Map courtesy MnDOT
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Natural Resources Inventory
The natural environment is an important asset to the residents of Mendota
Heights. During the City’s developing stages, a strong emphasis was placed on
preserving high quality open spaces and wooded areas. This has provided
tremendous benefits to the residents and is an important focal point of the
community. Residents enjoy numerous lakes and wetlands, open spaces, parks,
trails, and the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers. The following lists specific
environmental features within the City of Mendota Heig hts:
General Topography and Drainage
The topography of the City of Mendota Heights varies greatly, from floodplains of
the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers to the primary and secondary bluffs of the
rivers. The maps that follow illustrate the topography and location of floodplains
within the community. The majority of the City lies relatively flat at an elevation
approximately 200 feet above the river. Many of the lakes and ponds in the City
are entirely controlled by percolations, precipitation, and evaporation. The
original terrain and vegetation of the area were altered for purposes of farming.
Marshes and wetlands were left relatively undisturbed except for a few ditching
projects. More detailed information on the drainage system of the city can be
found in the Local Surface Water Management Plan, 2006.
Soils
The Soil Conservation Service has identified the following soil associations within
the City of Mendota Heights:
• Nearly Level Soils on the Floodplains. This area is on the floodplains of
the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers, mostly located in the Fort Snelling
State Park. Much of it is frequently flooded and is generally too wet to be
farmland. The area consists of mixed Alluvial sand and some Sawmill
soils. Colo soils, Riverwash, and Peat Muck are also present.
• Light Colored, Rolling to Hilly Soils. This general area is in the Morainic
part of the County. It is characterized by steep slopes and numerous
poorly drained depressions. The soils are extremely variable in depth,
texture, and productivity. The medium height and textured soils are
suitable for some crops if slopes are not too strong. Sheet or gully
erosions are hazards in cultivated fields. The area is best suited to
woodlands. The major soils include Scandia Kingsley, Hayden, and
Burnsville series. Included are soils of the Freer and Adolph series.
• Light Colored to Moderately Dark Colored, Rolling to Loose Hilly Soils on
Till. In topography and texture, this soil association is mostly the light
colored rolling high soils described above. Most of the soils develop from
calcareous materials. The major soils in the area include the Hayden,
Burnsville, Lester series.
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Floodplain
Although the City of Mendota Heights is located in such close proximity to the
Mississippi River and the Minnesota River, there is no floodway within the City
boundaries. As the Floodplain map portrays, there is floodway on both sides of
the Mississippi River and Minnesota River, within the cities of St. Paul, Lilydale,
Mendota, and Eagan. The floodway basically follows the northwest boundary of
the City.
Rivers, Lakes, and Wetlands
The following is a list of lakes and rivers located within the City of Mendota
Heights:
Gun Club Lake
Lake Augusta
Lake Le May
Rogers Lake
Friendly Marsh
Copperfield Ponds
Mississippi River
Minnesota River
Lake LeMay, Mendota Heights
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Watersheds
Mendota Heights is part of two watersheds: Lower Mississippi and Lower
Minnesota River.
The Lower Mississippi River Watershed Management Organization (LMRWMO)
encompasses 50 square miles in Dakota and Ramsey Counties. Other
surrounding communities include: Inver Grove Heights, Lilydale, St. Paul, South
St. Paul, Sunfish Lake, and West St. Paul. The LMRWMO was established by a
Joint Powers Agreement in 1985. The watershed is well-drained with many small
depressions and steep slopes. Issues of concern include wildlife habitat and
water recreation.
The Lower Minnesota River Watershed District (LMRWD) is located in the
southwest part of the Twin Cities metropolitan area along the Minnesota River.
The District boundaries encompass an area of 64 square miles of Carver,
Hennepin, Dakota, Scott, and Ramsey counties, which includes the Minnesota
River Valley from Fort Snelling, at the confluence of the Minnesota and
Mississippi rivers, upstream to Carver, Minnesota. The width of the District
includes the bluffs on both sides of the Minnesota River within this reach of the
river. The City of Mendota Heights entered into an agreement with the Lower
Minnesota River Watershed District in 2005. Issues of concern include dredging,
spoil site acquisition, and bank erosion control.
Significant Vegetation
The City of Mendota Heights contains a variety of wooded areas and explicit
forested areas. There is a large amount of floodplain forest along the Mississippi
and Minnesota Rivers. There is a large area of altered, non-native deciduous
forest on the east side of Gun Club Lake. A variety of vegetation also surrounds
Lake Augusta and Lake Le May, including the following: altered/non-native
deciduous forest, altered/non-native deciduous woodland, oak forest, native
dominated disturbed upland shrubland, and aspen forest.
The east side of 35E within the City of Mendota Heights, just before entering
Lilydale, contains a variety of vegetation, from altered/non-native deciduous
forest, altered/non-native deciduous woodland, altered/non-native mixed
woodland, oak forest, floodplain forest, and lowland hardwood forest. There are
also pockets of a variety of forests and woodlands between 35E and the
boundary with West St. Paul and Sunfish Lake, especially surrounding the water
features. The Significant Vegetation map illustrates the location of wooded and
forested areas within the City of Mendota Heights.
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MENDOTA
LILYDALE PICKERELLAKEMISSISSIPPIRIVERM IN N E S O T A R IV E R
ROGERS LAKELAKEAUGUSTALAK
E
L
E
MAY
GUN CLUB LAKE DODDRDDODDRDDELAWAREAVESIBLEYMEMORIALHWYMARIE AVE W
MENDOTA HEIGHTS RDLEXINGTONAVE LILYDALERDPILOTKNOBRDHUBER DR
SI
BLEYMEMORIALNORTHLAND DR
WENTWORTH AVE WWACHTLERAVE
WAGON WHEEL TRL
MENDOTA RDHUNTERLNORCHARDPLVICTORIARDSIVYFALLSAVE900'850'
8
0
0
'750'950'700'1000'750'900'
900'850'850'850'900'900'900'
9
5
0
'900'850'
75 0 '900'850'
900'850'850'800'900'900'7
0
0
'
9 0 0 '900'900'850'850'850'
8 5 0 '900'950'900'850'900'950'850'900'8
5
0
'900'900'900'
850'950'900'850'900'850'700'900'700'8
5
0
'
85 0 '
9 0 0 '900'950'900'850'900'1000'900'950'700'850'750'
800'
900'900'850'700'8
5
0
'900'900'
850'900'900'900'
850'
Topography
City of Mendota Heights
µ0 3,000 6,000 Feet
50' Contour Lines
Elevation up to 700'
Elevation 700' - 750'
Elevation 750' - 800'
Elevation 800' - 850'
Elevation 850' - 900'
Elevation 900' - 950'
Elevation 950' - 1,000'
Elevation above 1,000'
City Boundary
Land Parcel Line
Open Water
December 8, 2016
Source: City of Mendota Heights,
Dakota County, 2016
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MENDOTA
LILYDALE PICKERELLAKEMISSISSIPPIRIVERM IN N E S O T A R IV E R
ROGERS LAKELAKEAUGUSTALAK
E
L
E
MAY
GUN CLUB LAKE DODDRDDODDRDDELAWAREAVESIBLEYMEMORIALHWYMARIE AVE W
MENDOTA HEIGHTS RDLEXINGTONAVE LILYDALERDPILOTKNOBRDHUBER DR
SI
BLEYMEMORIALNORTHLAND DR
WENTWORTH AVE WWACHTLERAVE
WAGON WHEEL TRL
MENDOTA RDHUNTERLNORCHARDPLVICTORIARDSIVYFALLSAVE
LOWER MISSISSIPPI WATERSHED
GUN CLUB LAKE WATERSHED
LOWER MINNESOTA
WATERSHED
Hydrography
City of Mendota Heights
µ0 3,000 6,000 Feet
City Boundary
Watershed Boundary
Open Water
Wetland
100-Year Floodplain
500-Year Floodplain
December 8, 2016
Source: FEMA, City of Mendota Heights,
Dakota County, 2016
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft February 2018
1-26
Insert Watersheds Map
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MENDOTA
LILYDALE PICKERELLAKEMISSISSIPPIRIVERM IN N E S O T A R IV E R
ROGERS LAKELAKEAUGUSTALAK
E
L
E
MAY
GUN CLUB LAKE DODDRDDODDRDDELAWAREAVESIBLEYMEMORIALHWYMARIE AVE W
MENDOTA HEIGHTS RDLEXINGTONAVE LILYDALERDPILOTKNOBRDHUBER DR
SI
BLEYMEMORIALNORTHLAND DR
WENTWORTH AVE WWACHTLERAVE
WAGON WHEEL TRL
MENDOTA RDHUNTERLNORCHARDPLVICTORIARDSIVYFALLSAVE
Significant Vegetation
City of Mendota Heights
µ0 3,000 6,000 Feet
City Boundary
Open Water
Wetland
Altered/Non-Native Deciduous Forest
Altered/Non-Native Deciduous Woodland
Altered/Non-Native Mixed Woodland
Aspen Forest
Floodplain Forest
Lowland Hardwood Forest
Maple-Basswood Forest
Oak Forest
White Pine-Hardwood Forest
Mesic Prairie
December 8, 2016
Source: Dakota County MLCCS, 2013
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft February 2018
1-28
Community Facilities
The City of Mendota Heights currently retains a full complement of administrative
services, including Administration, Engineering, Public Works, Parks &
Recreation, Police, Fire, Finance, and Code Enforcement. The City contracts
with private consultants for planning and legal services. City Hall provides
administrative office space and public meeting facilities . City Hall is located at
1101 Victoria Curve, northwest of the intersection of Highway 110 and Lexington
Road.
Police and Fire
The City of Mendota Heights provides police protection for its residents . The
police station is located in the lower level of City Hall. Police are dispatched from
Dakota Communications Center, which is located in Empire Township. The City
also provides police services to the communities of Lilydale and Mendota. The
Police Department consists of 18 officers and 2.5 non-sworn civilian employees.
Fire protection is also provided by the City. The department is located on Dodd
Road, one-quarter mile south of Highway 110. Fire and Rescue Services
consists of 36 volunteers and has a fully equipped station consisting of a 2,000 -
gallon tanker, three pump trucks (one with a 65’ ladder), a rescue vehicle, a
brush truck, a boat, an ATV, and other equipment and services necessary to
provide for the defined ISO Commercial Risk Services Inc.
The City also provides fire services for the cities of Sunfish Lake, Lilydale, and
Mendota. The average response time to fire calls ranges from six to eight
minutes. The Fire and Rescue Services was last rated as providing Class 4
services (1-best, 10-worst), as defined by the Insurance Services Office. Specific
residential fire ratings are determined based upon a com bination of factors,
including the individual rating for the Fire Department, availability of water
services, and the level of communications (i.e., 911 call system, fire alarms,
pagers, and dispatch systems), available in the community.
Schools
Minnesota Independent School District #197 serves all or parts of the
communities of Eagan, Inver Grove Heights, Lilydale, Mendota, Mendota
Heights, Sunfish Lake and West St. Paul. The District is comprised of five
elementary schools (two neighborhood schools and three magnet schools), two
middle schools, and one high school. In addition, the District serves birth -to-age
five children with an Early Learning Program. Total enrollment for District schools
in the 2015-2016 school year was estimated at 4,343 students. This is down from
4,885 students in the 1998-1999 school year.
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft February 2018
1-29
There are six public and private schools offering kindergarten through 12th grade
located within the City of Mendota Heights: Mendota Elementary School,
Somerset Elementary School, Friendly Hills Middle School, Henry Sibley High
School, St. Thomas Academy, and Visitation School.
The following table provides a breakdown of enrollment of the K-12 public
schools located within the City at the start of the 2007 - 2008 school year
compared with the 2015-2016 school year.
Public School Enrollment for K-12 Schools within the City of Mendota
Heights: 2007-08 vs. 2015-16 School Years
School Grades
2007-08
Total
Enrollment
20015-16
Total
Enrollment
Percent
Change
2007-08 to
2015-16
Mendota
Elementary School K - 4th 360 388 8%
Somerset
Elementary School K - 4th 318 419 32%
Friendly Hills
Middle School 5th - 8th 597 727 22%
Henry Sibley High
School 9th - 12th 1,462 1,330 -9%
Source: ISD 197
The number of students enrolled in private schools within the City was 1,201
during the 2015-16 school year, down from the 2007-2008 school year, when
1,295 students were enrolled in private schools.
Private School Enrollment for K-12 Schools within the City of Mendota
Heights: 2007-08 vs. 2015-16 School Year
School Grades
2007-08
Total
Enrollment
20015-16
Total
Enrollment
Percent
Change
2007-08 to
2015-16
St. Thomas
Academy 7th - 12th 695 600 -14%
Visitation School Montessori
-12th 600 601 0%
Source: St. Thomas Academy and Visitation School websites
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft February 2018
1-30
Parks, Open Space, and Trails
The City of Mendota Heights boasts a variety of recreational opportunities ,
including access to regional trails, riverside and lakeside parks, scenic bluffs and
a nature preserve. These facilities represent unique features in a park system
that helps to shape the character of Mendota Heights. The City has 295 acres of
city-owned parks and open spaces, which includes active and passive recreation
areas, along with other state and private parks and open spaces. These facilities
are detailed in the Parks, Open Space and Trails chapter of this plan.
Cemeteries
There are two cemeteries in Mendota Heights – Resurrection and Acacia – which
occupy a significant amount of land on the west side of the community.
Wastewater
The City's Public Works Department operates and maintains the City’s sanitary
sewer system. The responsibilities of the sanitary sewer system include
maintenance of the sanitary sewer lift stations, sanitary sewer main repair, and
sanitary sewer hook-up inspections.
Water Supply
The St. Paul Regional Water Services provides water to Mendota Heights and
owns the water towers and distributions system . St. Paul maintains the water
lines and hydrants and bills its customers directly. A two-million-gallon water
tower, located on South Lexington Avenue, next to the City's Public Works
Facility, provides reserve water capacity.
The Community Features Map illustrates the location of the various public, semi-
public, institutional, and private uses within the City of Mendota Heights. While
the Community Facilities map illustrates specific locations of public buildings,
schools, churches, synagogues, golf courses, parks, and major employers.
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft February 2018
1-31
Insert Community Features Map
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MENDOTA
LILYDALEPI CKERELLAKEMISSISSIPPIRIVERM IN N E S O T A R IV E R
ROGERS LAKELAKEAUGUSTALAK
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L
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MAY
GUN CLUB LAKE
SOMERSETGOLF COURSE(PRIVATE)ISLANDREG IO NALTRAILF ortSnellingStateParkRESURRECTIONCEMETERY
CITY HALL\POLICE
PUBLICWORKS
FIRE STATION
MENDAKOTA GOLF COURSE(PRIVATE)
ST. THOMASACADEMY
VISITATION
HENRYSIBLEYSENIORHIGH
MENDOTAELEM.
FRIENDLY HILLSMIDDLE SCHOOL
PAR 3 (PUBLIC)
ACACIA PARKCEMETERY
VENTO'S VIEW(WILDLIFE VIEWING STATION)
ÊÚ
SCENIC OVERLOOK(DAKOTA COUNTY)
M
E
N
D
O
TA
BRID
G
E
SOMERSETELEM.
OLIVIA T. DODGENATURE CENTER
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
PROPOSED NORTH URBAN REGIONAL TRAIL
BIGRIVERSREGIONALTRAIL14
13
15 LILYDALE-HARRIETDODDRDÊÚ
ÊÚÊÚ
ÊÚ
PILOT KNOBPRESERVATION
BUS GARAGEÊÚ DODDRDDELAWAREAVEMARIE AVE W
MENDOTA HEIGHTS RDLEXINGTONAVE LILYDALERDPILOTKNOBRDHUBER DR
SI
BLEYMEMORIALNORTHLAND DR
WENTWORTH AVE WWACHTLERAVE
WAGON WHEEL TRLHUNTERLNORCHARDPLVICTORIARDS IVY FALLS AVE
Community Facilities
City of Mendota Heights
µ0 3,000 6,000 Feet
February 6, 2018
Source: City of Mendota Heights,
Dakota County, 2016
Off Street Bituminous
Trail (6' to 8' wide)
Proposed North Urban Regional Trail
(Dakota County)
Wide Shoulders/On Street
Parks
Cemetery
City Park
State Park
Golf Course
Nature Preserve
Municipal Facility
School
Open Water
Wetland
1) Friendly Hills Park
2) Friendly Marsh Park
3) Hagstrom King Park
4) Ivy Hills Park
5) Kensington Park
6) Marie Park
7) Mendakota Park
8) Rogers Lake Park
9) Valley Park
10) Victoria Highland Park
11) Wentworth Park
12) Valley View Heights Park
13) Copperfield Ponds
14) Sibley Park
15) Civic Center Ball Park
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft February 2018
1-33
Socio-Economic Profile
The purpose of the social and economic inventory is to identify past trends,
document current conditions, and help identify issues to be addressed in
planning policies. These policies will help the community address a broad base
of land use and development issues. With the help of a solid information and
policy base, decision makers can evaluate and prioritize proposals for the
community while fulfilling the City’s long-term goals and objectives.
Growth Trends: Mendota Heights
The following graph illustrates the estimated and projected growth in the City of
Mendota Heights for population, household, and employment from 1970 through
2040. Population, households, and employment within the City have all been
increasing since 1970 and are projected to increase through 2040.
Figure X Mendota Heights and Dakota County:
Population, Household, & Employment Estimates & Forecasts 1970-2040
Source: Metropolitan Council, US Census
After significant increase between 1980 and 2000, City population decreased
slightly after 2000, but is expected to remain relatively stable in the decades to
come. In the meantime, the number of households is expected to grow at a slow
pace, indicating a further decline of household sizes. Employment, however, has
continued to grow in the past ten years despite the recent economic downturn,
and is expected to continue, but at a slightly slower pace in the next 20 years.
6,565 7,288
9,381
11,434
11,071 11,300 11,300 11,400
1,641 2,210 3,302
4,178 4,378 4,600 4,710 4,8001,140
2,998
5,805
8,549
11,550
12,600 13,400 13,700
0
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
10,000
12,000
14,000
16,000
1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 2040
Population Household Employment
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft February 2018
1-34
Growth Trends: Mendota Heights Versus Dakota County Communities
The following table shows population, household, and employment estimates and
forecasts for the City of Mendota Heights and Dakota County, 1970 through
2040. The table shows how the City has grown slower in all three measures than
the County as a whole over several decades, with the exception of employment
between 1970 and 2000.
The City saw its largest population percent growth from 1980 to 1990. Dakota
County also experienced its highest percentage growth in population from 1980
to 1990. City population is projected to remain more or less unchanged out to
2040, whereas the County is projected to continue to grow steadily for the next
three decades.
Table X: Mendota Heights and Dakota County:
Population, Household, and Employment Estimates & Forecasts 1970 – 2040
Population/Percent Change
1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 2040
Mendota Hts 6,565 7,288 9,381 11,434 11,071 11,300 11,300 11,400
- 11% 29% 22% -3% 2% 0% 1%
Dakota County 139,808 194,279 275,186 355,904 398,552 435,870 474,670 514,050
- 39% 42% 29% 12% 9% 9% 8%
Household/Percent Change
1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 2040
Mendota Hts 1,641 2,210 3,302 4,178 4,378 4,600 4,710 4,800
- 35% 49% 27% 5% 5% 2% 2%
Dakota County 37,560 64,087 98,293 131,151 152,060 170,940 187,980 204,750
- 71% 53% 33% 16% 12% 10% 9%
Employment/Percent Change
1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 2040
Mendota Hts 1,140 2,998 5,805 8,549 11,550 12,600 13,400 13,700
- 163% 94% 47% 35% 9% 6% 2%
Dakota County 31,100 62,134 106,029 154,242 170,192 203,330 219,860 236,500
- 100% 71% 45% 10% 19% 8% 8%
Source: Metropolitan Council, US Census
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft February 2018
1-35
Population
The following line graph illustrates the estimated and forecasted population for
Mendota Heights and four other communities within Dakota County – Eagan,
Inver Grove Heights, West St. Paul, and South St. Paul. Mendota Heights and its
neighbors West St. Paul and South St. Paul are mostly developed and will grow
slowly; Eagan and Inver Grove Heights, with room to grow, will see larger
population increases.
Figure X Mendota Heights and Dakota County Communities:
Population Estimates & Forecasts 2000-2040
Household Growth Trends
The following graph illustrates the growth trend in the number of households,
actual and projected, in Mendota Heights and area communities within Dakota
County, from 1970 to 2040. As the graph illustrates, households in West St. Paul
and South St. Paul will continue to steadily increase from 2010 until 2040 . As
with population, Eagan and Inver Grove Heights will experience more dramatic
increases between 2010 and 2040.
Similar to West St. Paul and South St. Paul, Mendota Heights will experience a
steady rise in the number of households.
11,434 11,071 11,300 11,300 11,400
63,557 64,206 67,400 69,800 72,300
29,751 33,880 37,300 42,000 46,700
19,405 19,540 20,800 21,900 23,100
20,167 20,160 21,500 21,500 21,800
0
10,000
20,000
30,000
40,000
50,000
60,000
70,000
80,000
2000 2010 2020 2030 2040Population
Mendota Heights Eagan Inver Grove Heights West St. Paul South St. Paul
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft February 2018
1-36
Figure X Mendota Heights and Dakota County Communities:
Household Estimates & Forecasts 2000-2040
Household Size
The graph below illustrates average household size in Mendota Heights
compared to Dakota County from 1970 to 2040. Household size has declined
steadily since 1970 but is expected to flatten out in the next couple decades.
Figure X: Average Household Size Mendota Heights & Dakota County 1970-2040
4,178 4,378 4,600 4,710 4,800
23,773 25,249
27,400 28,700 30,000
11,257
13,476
15,400
17,600
19,800
8,645 8,529 9,200 9,600 10,100
8,123 8,186 8,900 9,200 9,400
0
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
25,000
30,000
35,000
2000 2010 2020 2030 2040Households
Year
Mendota Heights Eagan Inver Grove Heights West St. Paul South St. Paul
4.00
3.30
2.84 2.74
2.51 2.45 2.46 2.40 2.38
3.72
3.03
2.80 2.71
2.60 2.58 2.55 2.53 2.51
2.00
2.50
3.00
3.50
4.00
4.50
1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2015 2020 2030 2040Persons per HouseholdYear
Mendota Heights Dakota County
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft February 2018
1-37
Household Type
Two types of householders are distinguished in the 2000 and 2010 U.S. Census:
a family and a non-family householder. A family householder is a householder
living with one or more people related to him or her by birth, marriage, or
adoption. The householder and all people in the household related to him or her
are family members. A non-family householder is a householder living alone or
with non-relatives only.
The table below illustrates the demographic profile of the households in Mendota
Heights. The table separates households by information pertaining to family and
non-family households; households with or with or without children; and the
number of households in each category.
Table X: Mendota Heights Household Types 2000 & 2010
Total households HHs with
Children
HHs without
Children
Household Type 2000 2010 2000 2010 2000 2010
Married Couple
Families
2,902 2,821 1,356 1,068 1,546 1,753
Female Householder 253 281 151 155 102 126
Male Householder 83 102 37 46 46 56
Total Family
Households
3,238 3,204 1,544 1,269 1,694 1,935
Percent 77.5% 73.2%
Total Non-Family
Households
940 1,174
Percent 22.5% 26.8%
Total Households 4,178 4,378
Source: 2000 and 2010 US Census
The number of households held fairly steady between 2000 and 2010 but the
significant changes is in households with and without children – the trend being
fewer households with children. This likely indicates a societal trend but also the
presence of more retirees in Mendota Heights.
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft February 2018
1-38
Age Distribution
The following bar graph compares the percentages of the age distribution in the
City of Mendota Heights in 2000 and 2010 and 2014. The median age of
Mendota Heights’ residents in 2000 was 41 years old. By 2010, the median age
climbed to 47.5 years old. By 2014, the Census estimated it rose again to 49
years old.
Figure X: Mendota Heights Age Distribution 2000, 2010, & 2014
Source: US Census 2000 & 2010, ACS 2014
The largest age cohort in Mendota Heights are 45-to-64-year-olds, rising from
about 29% in 2000 to over 37% in 2014. The share of children 14 and under has
decreased from about 22% in 2000 to under 15% in 2014.
Age Distribution
The graphs to the right depict this aging
trend in Mendota Heights in a focused
way. In just 14 years, the share of the
population over and under 45 years of age
has flipped – from just under half to just
over half.
Mendota Heights’ age trends have been
following the age composition trends of the
Twin Cities Metro Area. The greatest
population gains in the 1990s in the
Seven-County Metro Area were in the
5.8%
16.5%
11.1%
6.9%
15.8%
18.9%
10.6%
8.3%
6.2%
4.6%
13.0%11.4%
7.2%
9.8%
18.1%18.2%
9.1%8.7%3.9%
11.5%11.7%
6.4%
10.0%
17.0%
20.2%
9.2%10.0%
0.0%
2.0%
4.0%
6.0%
8.0%
10.0%
12.0%
14.0%
16.0%
18.0%
20.0%
22.0%
Under 5
years
5 to 14
years
15 to 24
years
25 ot 34
years
35 to 44
years
45 to 54
years
55 to 64
years
65 to 74
years
75 years +
2000 2010 2014
44%56%
2000
45 years and older
44 and younger
56%44%
2014
45 years and older
44 and younger
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft February 2018
1-39
forty-five (45) to fifty-four (54) year old age group, which is the same as Mendota
Heights’ largest percentage category. This was a result of the Baby Boom
generation moving into an age category previously occupied by the smaller
Depression and World War II generation. The generation after the baby boom
generation, also known as Generation X, 35-to-44-year-old age group, also grew
significantly in the 1990s, just as in Mendota Heights.
The continued aging of the population creates new challenges for the Seven-
County Metro Area, as well as for the City of Mendota Heights. It is expected to
increase the demand for a wider range of services and housing choices, such as
townhomes, one-level housing, assisted living, and so on, rather than traditional
single-family homes.
The Metropolitan Council has estimated that between 2000 and 2030, the
population under the age of 55 is projected to increase by nineteen percent
(19%) in the Twin Cities Seven County Metro Area, while the number of people
55 and over is expected to more than double, an increase of 111%. If the City of
Mendota Heights continues to follow the population trends of the greater
Metropolitan Area, the needs of the aging population will need to be recognized
and addressed.
Education
The graph below illustrates education levels for Mendota Heights residents ages
25 and over in 2010, compared to Dakota County, the Twin Cities Metropolitan
Area, and the State of Minnesota. Compared to the County, State and Metro
area, Mendota Heights’ residents are very well educated. The City has more than
20 percent more residents with Bachelor’s degrees than either Dakota County
and the Metro Area, and the highest percentage of high school graduates.
Sources: ACS 2014, Metropolitan Council
97%95%92%92%
62%
40%41%33%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
Mendota Heights Dakota County 7 County Metro Minnesota
High School Grad or higher Bachelor's Degree or higher
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft February 2018
1-40
Employment
Occupations
Information from the 2010 Census regarding employment demographics for
Mendota Heights is depicted in the table below. The statistics provided include
employment information for residents over the age of 16. The majority of those
employed in the City in 2010 were in Management, employing 62 percent of the
population. The second largest employment category was Sales and Office,
employing 23 percent of the population.
Table X: Occupation of Residents in Mendota Heights
Management, business, science, and arts occupations 3,567
Service occupations 501
Sales and office occupations 1,342
Natural resources, construction, and maintenance occupations 110
Production, transportation, and material moving occupations 259
Total Civilian employed population 16 years and over 5,779
Source: ACS 2014
Income
The median household income for the City of Mendota Heights in 2000 was
$81,155. The City’s median household income has increased since then to
$98,098 in 2014. The median household income for the City is higher than that of
Dakota County, the entire Twin Cities Metro Area, and the State of Minnesota.
Figure X: Median Household Income 2000 & 2014
Source: ACS 2014, Metropolitan Council
$81,155
$61,863
$54,300
$47,111
$98,098
$74,995 $68,000
$60,828
$0
$20,000
$40,000
$60,000
$80,000
$100,000
$120,000
Mendota
Heights
Dakota County 7 County Metro Minnesota
2000 2014
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft February 2018
1-41
Poverty Rates
According to the 2000 Census and 2015 Census estimates, the City also has a
relatively low percentage of individuals below the poverty. However small the
number of residents living in poverty in 2000, the number more than doubled by
2015 to 431 Mendota Heights residents living below the poverty level .
Figure X: Mendota Heights Poverty Rates 2000 & 2015
Below Poverty in
2000
Below Poverty in
2015 Number Percent Number Percent
Individuals 212 1.9% 431 3.9%
Individuals 65 years and over 33 2.0% 86 3.9%
Families 43 1.3% 170 3.7%
Families with children under 18
years
28 0.9% 77 3.3%
Source: ACS 2015
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2
Land Use
Although Mendota Heights is almost completely developed, there are substantial
areas of public open space, wetlands, lakes, bluff and wooded areas that give
the feeling of very low density of development in much of the community. The
land use pattern is well established, with the strong residential neighborhoods
throughout the City, business and industrial development in the southwest
corner, several major institutional uses (cemeteries, schools, golf courses), and
protected natural areas (Dodge Nature Center, bluffs and ravines along the
river). The Community Facilities Map illustrates the specific location and type of
natural areas, open space, and recreation areas located within and around
Mendota Heights (see Figure 2-1).
This Comprehensive Plan sets forth the City’s goals and policies relating to land
use, housing, parks and open space, transportation and utilities. A discussion
concerning Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is included in this
Chapter because of its impacts on the City’s residents and future development.
Some attention is given in the future to the “focus” areas, or remaining parcels to
be developed (see attached Figure X Focus Areas). Attention will also be given
to protecting the high quality natural and built environments. To do so, the City
will continue to protect the quiet, secluded feel of its mature neighborhoods by
preserving natural features and the environment, promoting high quality and well-
functioning developments, and continuing to combat the threats of increasing
airplane noise over the southern part of the City.
Insert Figure 2-1 Community Facilities
Insert Figure X Focus Areas.
Goals and Policies
GOAL 1: The land use plan will serve as the foundation for land use
decisions in Mendota Heights.
Policies:
• Develop in accordance with the Comprehensive Plan for land use,
housing, transportation, parks and other community facilities.
• Review and amend the Comprehensive Plan as necessary to ensure
consistent development policy in current and future development
decisions.
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Focus Areas
City of Mendota Heights
µ0 3,000 6,000 Feet
Dodd/Highway 110
Furlong District
Lot Size Study Area
Somerset Area
St. Thomas/Visitation
Infill Sites
City Boundary
Open Water
February 22, 2018
Source: Dakota County, 2016, City of Mendota Heights 2018
Infill/Redevelopment Areas
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft March 2018
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• Zoning and rezoning decisions shall conform to the Land Use Plan.
• The Land Use Plan will be updated to reflect changing priorities and
conditions or as required by the Metropolitan Land Planning Act.
• Balance land use designations to meet projected growth demand.
GOAL 2: Preserve, protect, and enrich the mature, fully developed
residential environment and character of the community.
Policies:
• Subdivision and zoning standards will emphasize high quality site and
architectural design.
• Emphasize quality design, innovative solutions, and a high general
aesthetic level in community development and building.
• Parks, trails and open spaces will be planned within walking distance of
all residential areas.
• Encourage development and planning of land that provides for
reasonable access to surrounding properties.
• Public buildings and properties will be designed, constructed and
maintained to be a source of civic pride and to set a standard for private
property owners to follow.
• Historic preservation will be considered in land use decisions.
Goal 3: Support industrial and commercial development in designated
areas.
Policies:
• The City will use available resources to meet redevelopment needs. This
will include cooperation with the Dakota County and the Metropolitan
Council to achieve redevelopment objectives.
• Encourage appropriate transitions and buffering between potentially
incompatible land uses.
Goal 4: Enhance and protect the natural environment.
Policies:
• Provide for maintenance and further natural r estoration of ecological
systems including lakes, ponding areas, aquifers, and drainage areas
• Encourage energy efficient design in all public and private construction.
• Take in to account impacts on air quality in land use and infrastructure
decisions.
• Follow best practices in land use and infrastructure decisions that impact
stormwater runoff.
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Goal 5: Reduce the impact of aircraft noise within the community.
Policies:
• Increase public participation and representation through the Noise
Oversight Committee (NOC) and the Metropolitan Airports Commission
(MAC).
• Achieve noise reduction through advocating modified takeoff procedures
and corridor compliance.
• Advocate an equitable distribution of aircraft traffic and a more equitable
runway use system.
• Monitor the continued implementation of the Minneapolis/St. Paul (MSP)
airport Comprehensive Plan.
• Advocate for specific noise control measures through operational
changes and advance technology.
• Establish a physical capacity for the Mendota Heights/Eagan corridor and
transfer general aviation use to other reliever airports.
• Notify and work with MnDOT in the event that potential airspace
obstructions are encountered.
• Consider aircraft noise and safety issues in all land use and zoning
decisions.
Existing Land Use
The following table illustrates how the existing land use is distributed within the
City of Mendota Heights:
Insert table
Land Use Categories
Residential
Single family housing is the predominant land use in the City, although in recent
years there has been an increase in the development of multi-family housing.
Eight percent (8%) of the residentially-designated land in the City is utilized for
multiple family homes or medium to high-density development, as opposed to
one percent (1%) in 1979 and five percent (5%) in 2002.
The Land Use Plan identifies seven categories of residential uses: rural, low
density, medium density, high density, low density-II, medium density-PUD, and
high density-PUD.
Rural Residential
This land use is generally located in the east central part of the City. This
designation is intended for large lot single family residences with and without City
sewer. The Residential Estate areas are planned with a density not to exceed
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft March 2018
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1.08 units per acre. The corresponding zoning district classification is R-1A (One
Family Residential).
Low Density Residential
This land use is the most prevalent land use category in the City and provides for
single family development. This designation is intended for a density not to
exceed 2.9 units per acre. The corresponding zoning district classifications are
One Family Residential Districts: R-1 (2.9 units per acre), R-1B (1.45 units per
acre), and R-1C (2.18 units per acre).
Medium Density Residential
This land use provides for townhome and attached housing development at
urban densities of up to 4.35 units per acre. There is no vacant land within this
designation. The corresponding zoning district classifications are: R-2 (Medium
Density Residential District) and MR-PUD (Medium Density Residential Planned
Unit Development). The remaining land in this category was purchased as a part
of the Pilot Knob Open Space project. The Land Use Maps identify these areas
as “Medium Density Residential” or “Medium Density Residential - PUD.”
High Density Residential
This land use provides for multi-family and apartment development at densities of
up to 8.54 units per acre. The majority of land with this land use category lies
between I-35E and Lexington Avenue; at the corner of Marie Avenue and I-35E;
west of Dodd Road at Ivy Hill Drive; and north of I-494 and south of Mendota
Heights Road. The corresponding zoning district classifications are: R-3 (High
Density Residential District) and HR-PUD (High Density Residential Planned Unit
Development). The City has a wide range of residential neighborhoods in both
age and style, and has taken great care in the design of its residential areas.
The land use pattern works to strengthen existing neighborhoods and encourage
new residential development to be complementary to adjacent land uses. The
Land Use Maps identify these areas as “High Density Residential” or “High
Density Residential - PUD.”
Mixed Use - Planned Unit Development
The intent of the district is to allow for mixed use developments that combine
residential, retail, and commercial uses into a coordinated, planned development
project. Areas of the community with this land use designation are located near
the intersection of Highway 110 and Dodd Road. The intersection of Dodd Road
and Highway 110 is the City’s only significant retail area. The northeast quadrant
of this intersection has been developed into a mixed use commercial/residential
center known as The Village at Mendota Heights.
Located in the southeast corner of the Lexington and Highway 110 intersection is
a related commercial area. This older Mendota Plaza shopping center has seen
renovation and redevelopment of some buildings and parcels in recent years,
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft March 2018
2-5
including a new Walgreen’s pharmacy; White Pine Senior Living, a 50-unit
assisted living complex, and a 4-story 139-unit apartment project developed by
Paster Properties and At Home Apartments.
Commercial
Commercial land uses are typically divided into two general categories; (1) office
and (2) retail. The office category includes land uses generally considered to be
of a limited business nature, typically a daytime office use. The Land Use Map
identifies these areas as “LB - Limited Business”. The corresponding zoning
district classifications are B-1 (Limited Business), B-1A (Business Park) and B-2
(Neighborhood Business).
There are presently four general locations for these types of businesses in the
City of Mendota Heights. The first area is along I-494 and Highway 55. The
second is located in the southwest corner of Highway 110 and Lexington
Avenue, across from City Hall. The third site is located along Highway 13, north
of I-494 and northeast of I-35E, and the fourth site is located north of Valley Park
and south of the City boundary. Since the previous Comprehensive Plan, the
research headquarters of Ecolab, which was formerly designated as LB, Limited
Business, has been redeveloped as a multiple family residential property.
The second category of commercial uses is for retail and includes neighborhood
type convenience stores and shopping centers. The Land Use Map identifies
these areas as “B - Business”.
A few isolated retail parcels, consisting of a nursery and gas station, are located
along Highway 13. The corresponding zoning district classification is B-3
(General Business) and B-4 (Shopping Center).
Insert Figure X 2040 Future Land Use
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft March 2018
2-6
Lot Size Study Areas
Two areas of the City on the Focus Areas m ap
are noted as Lot Size Study Areas. These are
areas of the City where single family home lots
are generally much smaller than the rest of the
City and smaller than the minimum lot size of
15,000 square feet – the northeast corner of the
City and the Friendly Hills area in the southeast
part of the City. A map showing the size of
residential lots is attached as Fig. x.
Insert Fig. X Lot Sizes for SF Land Use
The smaller lots were developed before the
current zoning standards were in place. When
this happens, these lots become legal non-
conforming lots in terms of size which can pose
problems when homeowners want to expand their
homes and may run into setback or lot coverage
issues. Another concern is that in many other
neighborhoods of the City larger lots can be split
into two lots that conform to the prevailing size in
the neighborhood. In the smaller-lot
neighborhoods, a larger lot might be subdivided
into two lots that would be in keeping with the
character of that neighborhood, but the zoning
ordinance minimum lot size prevents it. For
example, a 30,000-square-foot lot can be divided
into two 15,000-square-foot lots that meet the
zoning code. But a 15,000-square-foot lot in a
small-lot neighborhood of mostly 7,500-square-
foot lots cannot be further subdivided. This has
the effect of inhibiting investment in the
neighborhood and preventing people from more
or less equal treatment compared to larger lot
neighborhoods.
An implementation step coming out of this Plan
for the Lot Size Study Areas will be a study of
these two areas and recommendations on ways
to address the issue. This might include creating a
new zoning district or districts that would allow
smaller lot sizes, recognizing the preponderance
of 10,000-square-foot lots and many as small as
5,000 square feet.
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Lot Sizes for 2030 Planned Single Family Land Use
City of Mendota Heights
µ0 3,000 6,000 Feet
November 2, 2017
Source: City of Mendota Heights,
Dakota County, 2016
City Boundary
Lot Size < 5,000 sqft
Lot Size 5,000-7,500 sqft
Lot Size 7,500-10,000 sqft
Lot Size 10,000-12,500 sqft
Lot Size 12,500-15,000 sqft
Lot Size 15,000-20,000 sqft
Lot Size 20,000-30,000 sqft
Lot Size > 30,000 sqft
Open Water
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3
Transportation
TRANSPORTATION PLAN
The completion of Interstates 494 and 35E in the late 1980s radically altered the physical environment of
Mendota Heights. The highway systems have connected the community to the Metropolitan Region , and
the improved access has contributed to growth of the residential, commercial, and industrial base of the
community. Unfortunately, these major transportation systems have also impacted the quality of the
environment and contributed to increased air, noise, and water pollution within th e community. The City
of Mendota Heights supplied a significant level of arterial highway capacity for the south and east metro,
at a high cost to the City in terms of negative impacts associated with traffic, pollution, noise, etc., from
the regional highway system and airport. By virtue of its location, the City has a disproportionate share of
regional infrastructure impacts that are not shared by other communities. The City gained substantially in
transportation access, but at the price of a diminished quality of residential living.
TRANSPORTATION ANALYSIS ZONES
In order to develop forecasts and plan for regional roads and highways, the Metropolitan Council needs to
know the demographic forecasts for smaller geographic areas known as Traffic Analysis Zones (TAZ).
The Traffic Analysis Zones Map illustrates the eighteen zones currently located within the City of Mendota
Heights. Within each zone the allocation of the Metropolitan Council’s 2040 population, household, and
employment forecasts are shown for each TAZ. The distribution of future growth within these areas
reflects the communities overall land use planning efforts.
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Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft March 2018
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FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM: HIGHWAYS AND ROADS
Mendota Heights’ street system consists of Principal Arterials, “A” Minor Arterials, “B” Minor Arterials, and
community collectors, and a series of local streets. The Existing Roadway Functional Transportation
Classification Map illustrates the classification of the roads within the City of Mendota Heights.
Principal Arterials
Interstates 494 and 35E, State Trunk Highway (TH) 55, and the western part of State Trunk Highway 110
– from 35E to TH 55 – are all designated Principal Arterials. Interstate 494 forms the southern boundary
of the City, while Interstate 35E bisects the City from east to west. TH 110 bisects the community from
north to south, with TH 55 further dividing the southwestern part of Mendota Heights.
Arterial Roadways
“A” Minor Arterials are further classified has minor argumentor, minor reliever, and minor expander roads.
The major function of an arterial road is to move traffic from the smaller community collector roads to
principal arterials as efficiently as possible. The “A” Minor Arterials within the City of Mendota Heights are
TH110, (35E to Delaware Ave), Dodd Road, TH 13 (TH 55 to Interstate 494), and Pilot Knob Rd or
County Road 31 (Interstate 494 to TH 13). Wentworth Ave W (Dodd Road to Delaware Ave) is the only
roadway currently classified as a “B” Arterial Roadway.
Arterial roadways, except county roads, are maintained by the Minnesota Department of Transportation
(MnDOT). Traffic on both principal and arterial roadways within the city limits has increased steadily over
the last ten years.
Community Collectors
Community collector streets are broken down by major collectors and minor collectors. The City of
Mendota Heights does not have and minor collecters. Delaware Avenue functions as a major collector on
the City’s eastern border. It is otherwise known as County Road 63. Other roads within Mendota Heights
that are designated as Collector Streets are: Lexington Ave or County Rd 43, Mendota Heights Rd, Marie
Ave, Sibley Memorial Hwy, and TH 13 (TH 55 to Sibley Memorial Hwy). County Roads 63, 43 and 31 are
all maintained by Dakota County.
TRAFFIC VOLUMES
The Existing Roadway Functional Transportation Classification Map illustrates the current daily traffic
counts, the forecasted 2040 traffic volumes, and the existing number of lanes for each roadway.
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Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft March 2018
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PLANNED DEVELOPMENT
Minnesota Vikings Headquarters
The City of Eagan, MN completed an Alternative Urban Area-Wide Review (AUAR) analyzing a potential
site for a new Minnesota Vikings headquarters and training facility. The location of the site is in the
Southeast quadrant of the intersection of State Highway 149 and I-494 between Oak Parkway and Ames
Crossing Road. With full build-out of the site the intersections of Dodd Road/Mendonta Heights Road and
Dodd Road/I-494 North Ramps would be impacted.
The study looked at three possible scenarios. Scenario 1 represents the current allowable devel opment
for the City of Eagan. Scenario 2 represents additional land uses proposed in addition to the current plan
and Scenario 3 represents the maximum build-out potential of the site. The study indicated Scenario 1
would warrant signal timing adjustments for Dodd Road/Mendota Heights Road and the conversion of the
west-bound right-turn lane into a shared left/right turn lane at Dodd Road/I-494. Full build out of the site,
as represented in Scenario 3, wouldn’t require any additional intersection adjustments already not
warranted by Scenario 1. The City of Mendota Heights will continue to follow the MN Vikings
Headquarters Development and access its impact on the city.
Interchange 494 at Argenta/Delaware
A Regional Roadway System Visioning Study was conducted to identify a plan which supports long-term
growth and development within the region. This study discusses plans for a new interchange at I-
494/Argenta Trail (Delaware Avenue) and the need for improvements to Delaware Avenue. The City of
Mendota Heights written resolution to this study states their support to the recommendation of an I-494
interchange ¼ mile east of the current Delaware Ave interchange; however, an interchange at Delaware
Avenue will not be supported. They also specified that any future improvements to Delaware Avenue
must be driven by the City of Mendota Heights.
I-35E Between TH 5 & TH 110
I-35E between TH 5, on the St. Paul side of the Mississippi River, & TH 110 is planned for expansion
within the City of Mendota Heights. The length of the project is estimated to be 2.3 miles with the addition
of a 3rd lane.
ACCESS MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES
Access management is the planning, design, and implementation of land use and transportation
strategies that maintain a safe flow of traffic while accommodating the access needs of adjacent
development.
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The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) has set up access management guidelines which
provide numerous benefits such as, reduce congestion and crashes, preserve road capacity and
postpone the need for roadway widening, improve travel times for the delivery of goods and services,
ease movement between destinations, and support local economic development.
To provide safe and convenient travel within the City, access management guidelines will be applied
when making development decisions. The following MnDOT access management guidelines will be
incorporated into this Comprehensive Plan update:
1. Think land use AND transportation.
Before approving a subdivision or rezoning, consider what road design and improvements will be needed
to support the development and link it to the surrounding area.
2. Identify and plan for growth areas.
Incremental and uncoordinated development will not lead to a livable community or a healthy business
climate. Support economic growth by planning and investing in a local road network to support
development.
3. Develop a complete hierarchy of roads.
A viable community requires a variety of roadways organized as an integrated system. Highways and
arterials are needed for longer, higher speed trips. Local streets and collectors provide access to homes
and businesses. Recognize that different roads serve different purposes.
4. Link access regulations to roadway function.
Access requirements in zoning and subdivision regulations should fit each roadway’s functional
classification. Recognize that the greatest access control is needed for those roads intended to serve
longer, higher speed trips.
5. Avoid strip development. Promote commercial nodes.
Commercial development can be located adjacent to and visible from the highway, but
should be accessed via a system of parallel local roads and side streets that complement the state
highway system.
6. Connect local streets between subdivisions.
Give residents convenient options for travel from one neighborhood to another by connecting local streets
from one subdivision to the next.
7. Design subdivisions with access onto local streets.
Avoid lot designs with driveways that enter onto major state or county highways. Orient business and
residential driveways to local streets that feed onto the highway at a few carefully designed and spaced
intersections.
8. Practice good site planning principles.
Locate entrances away from intersection corners and turn lanes. Provide adequate space on the site for
trucks to maneuver and for vehicles to queue at drive-through windows without backing or stacking on the
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft March 2018
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roadway. Adjacent businesses should provide shared driveways and cross access so customers can
make multiple stops without entering the arterial.
9. Correct existing problems as opportunities arise.
Adopt a long range vision for improving access along older, developed corridors. Correct unsafe
accesses as individual parcels expand or redevelop. Work with affected property owners to consolidate
driveways and provide internal access between parcels. Fill in the supporting roadway network with local
access roads as part of the redevelopment process.
10. Coordinate local development plans with Mn/DOT and county road agencies.
Share plans for subdivisions, rezonings, and site plans with affected road authorities early in the
development process. Contact Mn/DOT and the County Highway Department to talk about long range
plans and development needs.
BICYCLES AND PEDESTRIANS
The Regional Bicycle Transportation Network (RBTN) consists of a series of prioritized Tier 1 and Tier 2
corridors and routes. The goal of the RBTN is to establish an integrated network of on-street bikeways
and off-road trails which move bicyclists more efficiently and encourage the implementation of future
bikeways. Mendota Heights has approximately 6 roadways within Tier 1 RBTN alignments and 1 roadway
within Tier 2 RBTN alignments.
The bikeway inventory data for Mendota Heights was last updated in 2007. This inventory identifies a
section of the Fort Snelling Park Trail located east of the Minnesota River and Cheyenne Lane located
near Wagon Wheel Trail as planned for future improvements. As of 2016 neither of these sections have
been altered. The city of Mendota Heights does not encompass any regional employment clusters or
activity center nodes.
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Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft March 2018
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TRANSIT PLAN
Public Transit Service
Mendota Heights is within Market Area II and Market Area III of the Transit Market Area classifications.
Market Area II provides a network of local buses accommodating different trip purposes as demand
warrants. Limited stop services connect major destinations. Market Area III emphasizes commuter
express bus service with suburban local routes providing basic coverage. General public dial -a-ride
services supplement where regular-route service is not available.
Regularly scheduled transit route service is provided by the Metropolitan Council Transit Operations
(MCTO). There are six (6) transit routes that operate within the City of Mendota Heights. These bus
routes provide service to downtown Minneapolis, St. Paul, the University of Minnesota, the Mall of
America, as well as other suburban areas, including Eagan, Inver Grove Heights, and West St. Paul.
Several express routes, as well as local limited routes, are available for use by community residents. The
City does not have designated Park and Ride facilities or MnPASS lanes. Some residents utilize the
Mendota Plaza parking lot for the purpose of parking and riding the bus.
Metro Mobility, which serves people who need specially-equipped vehicles for transportation, is offered
throughout the Twin Cities and within the Metropolitan Urban Service Area. Dial-a-ride service for seniors
and persons with disabilities is provided by Dakota Areas Resources and Transportation for Seniors.
Roberts Street Corridor Transit Feasibility Study
The Robert Street Corridor in Dakota County extends from Union Depot in St. Paul to Rosemount. The
corridor is bound by I-35E on the west and the Mississippi River on the east. Existing and projected
conditions such as population and employment growth, changing demographics, limited transit service
coverage, increased roadway congestion, and lack of planned roadway improvements drove the need to
consider transportation alternatives.
Short and medium term recommendations were formulated to correspond with the long term vision for the
Robert Street corridor. Short term recommendations focus on enhancements to the existing bus service
and commencing studies of land use and parking policies. Medium term recommendations require
additional sources of funding to significantly expand bus services. The long term vision of the Roberts
Street Corridor is to build a transit way from downtown St. Paul to Rosemount linking major destinations.
The proposed Robert Street transitway alignment is east of the City of Mendota Heights. However, the
long term vision would directly affect the roadways within city limits. The plan presents a limited stop Bus
Rapid Transit (BRT) line on TH 110 and an express bus route on TH 55 which would connect to the
existing Light Rail Transit (LRT). The citizens of Mendota Heights would also benefit from additional park
and ride facilities within nearby cities.
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft March 2018
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City of Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan
11 Draft July 3, 2008
AVIATION PLAN
Mendota Heights is a community directly affected by aircraft operations at Minneapolis -St. Paul
International Airport (MSP). Aircraft noise is a major issue for Mendota Heights because of the detrimental
impacts of increased operations on the quality of life in existing neighborhoods and the impact of land use
compatibility guidelines and noise contours on development options.
Since the opening of the “North-South” runway, previous issues with the distribution of air traffic have
been reduced. All residential areas in Mendota Heights were in conformance with the original aviation
guidelines and their previous projections of air noise and air traffic. Mendota Heights was the only city that
adopted the original Metropolitan Council noise zones and guidelines and is the only city to adopt and
enforce a Noise Attenuation Ordinance.
The Runway Use System at MSP relies heavily on “land compatibility” as a guiding principle for departure
determination, thereby increasing the volume of traffic and the percentage of exclusive use of the
southeast corridor, which was zoned commercial/industrial in cooperation with regional and local planning
agencies. This increased traffic has impacted existing com patible residential neighborhoods in Mendota
Heights.
The City of Mendota Heights has worked strenuously to address airport noise issues. A citizen Airports
Relations Commission has been established by Mendota Heights to provide recommendations to the Ci ty
Council on airport issues. This plan is a compilation of the City’s work and history regarding the airport, a
set of policies and actions to guide future decisions on airport, a description of the conflicts with other
agencies responsible for airport impacts, and a discussion of the potential land use impacts from agency
requirements. In addition to these local efforts, the City has adopted a zoning ordinance consistent with
federal requirements for height control jurisdictions.
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Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft March 2018
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AIRPORT – RELATED GOALS AND POLICIES
The overall goals in relation to airport related issues are as follows:
1. To reduce negative airport impacts in Mendota Heights.
2. To reduce aircraft noise through equitable distribution of flights among all communities located
adjacent to MSP.
3. To work diligently with all noise issues and agencies to decrease aircraft noise in volume and to
decrease the area of noise impacts.
AIRCRAFT NOISE POLICIES
To address the issues described herein and to pursue the goals of the City, the followi ng are the policies
of the City of Mendota Heights:
1. Increase public participation and representation through the Noise Oversight Committee (NOC)
and the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC).
2. Achieve noise reduction through advocating modified takeoff procedures and corridor
compliance.
3. Advocate an equitable distribution of aircraft traffic and a more equitable runway use system.
4. Monitor the continued implementation of the Minneapolis/St. Paul (MSP) airport Comprehensive
Plan.
5. Advocate for specific noise control measures through operational changes and advance
technology.
6. Establish a physical capacity for the Mendota Heights/Eagan corridor and transfer general
aviation use to other reliever airports.
7. Notify and work with MnDOT in the event that pote ntial airspace obstructions are encountered.
HISTORY OF NOISE REDUCTION EFFORTS
The City of Mendota Heights has addressed aircraft noise issues in several ways, including the following
formal actions:
1. Membership in the NOC.
2. Modification of the Land Use Plan consistent with the established aircraft flight corridor .
3. Adoption of the Aircraft Noise Attenuation Ordinance.
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft March 2018
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4. Establishment of the citizen Airports Relations Commission (ARC) to study airport issues and
make recommendations to the City Council.
5. Agreement to a contract with MAC prohibiting construction of a third parallel runway.
The City has worked through the various agencies on issues including: modification of aircraft landings
and departures, supporting the installation of ANOMS, supporting the prohibition of Stage II aircraft, and
educating homeowners about the Part 150 program.
The City of Mendota Heights planned its land use according to the flight corridor, as originally established,
and adopted land use guidelines into an ordinance format in 1987. Operations have strayed to existing
residential areas outside of the planned corridor however, significantly impacting several neighborhoods.
IMPACTS ON FUTURE LAND USE PLANNING
Mendota Heights has planned its land uses in relation to the City’s experience with air noise and the
airport’s aviation guidelines. New development and redevelopment in the areas affected by air noise is
closely scrutinized, and has been accomplished with success through strict adherence to site planning
and building design regulations.
The City of Mendota Heights has adopted the Metropolitan Council’s model Sound Attenuation Ordinance
and has enforced the provisions of this ordinance for all building permits in the Noise Zones since 1986.
Town home projects are considered to be consistent with the Aviation Policy compatibility guidelines for
Noise Zone 4, which allows residential land uses, as a conditional use. The conditional use for residential
land use in Noise Zone 4 is satisfied through the enforcement of the City’s Sound attenuation Ordinance,
thereby, allowing residential construction to meet the Aviation Guide Plan’s land use compatibility
guidelines.
The City of Mendota Heights considers town home development to be consistent with Aviation Guide
Plan land use compatibility guidelines for the following reasons:
The experience of the City of Mendota Heights with the Sound Attenuation Ordinance has shown that
single family homes and multiplex residential structures (in Noise Zone 4) can be sound attenuated as
successfully as larger buildings with shared entrances.
1. A continuing reduction in experienced air noise, as evidenced by the airport’s planning
documents, new runway construction, and enhancements in aircraft technology, will result in the
protection of current Mendota Heights residential areas from the prospect of new negative air
noise impacts.
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2. The City of Mendota Heights will allow for the development of town home projects, consistent with
the policy direction associated with the City’s rece nt housing developments around Lake Augusta,
provided the project demonstrates compliance with the following:
a. Future town home developments shall be required to limit the exterior use on the site
through unit design and the layout of the site plan.
b. Future town home developments shall be designed compliant with the building requirements
of the City’s Sound Attenuation Ordinance.
c. Future town home developers shall file notice against the property deeds notifying all future
property owners that the parcels exist within the Metropolitan Council’s Air Noise Zones.
FREIGHT PLAN
Freight is an important aspect in supporting a community by providing residents and business with the
goods and materials they need. The Twin Cities area is a primary freight h ub for the upper Midwest
region. Roadways, railroads, barges, and air are the four modes of freight transportation within the Twin
Cities Metro area. Mendota Heights does not have any Air/Truck, Barge/Truck, or Rail/Truck freight
terminals.
Truck freight primarily impacts the city with two US Interstates located within the city limits. I-494 and -35E
both carry large amounts of commercial commerce to and from the downtown Minneapolis/St. Paul area
(see Existing Roadway Functional Classification Map for HCAADT volumes). No local roadways have
been identified as creating significant issues for the movement of goods within the city of Mendota
Heights.
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4
Parks and Trails
The City of Mendota Heights boasts a variety of recreational opportunities. Few
cities can claim access to regional trails, riverside and lakeside parks, scenic
bluffs and a nature preserve among their recreation facilities. These facilities
represent unique features in a park system that helps to shape the character of
Mendota Heights beyond the ordinary. They offer a visual identity to the city, in
addition to contributing to the quality of life for those who live here. Mendota
Heights has 771 acres of city-owned parks and open spaces, which includes
active and passive recreation areas, along with other state and private parks and
open spaces.
The 33 miles of city trails and bicycle facilities located adjacent to roadways or
meandering through the bounty of open space in the community offer an
excellent opportunity for exercise and relaxation. Opportunities are available for
walking, bicycling, bird watching and nature hikes.
In addition to parks, the City is also home to three golf courses: Mendakota Golf
Course, Somerset Golf Course, and the Mendota Heights Par 3 golf course.
Goals and Policies
GOAL 1: Provide a park system that is safe, accessible, and equitable in its
offerings to all Mendota Heights residents and visitors.
Policies:
• Create and maintain a park system that provides the optimum amount of
active and passive open space for the enjoyment of all Mendota Heights
residents.
• Provide facilities and programs that allow people of varying abilities to
participate.
• Build, maintain and retrofit park facilities and equipment to be safe for all
users.
• Plan and build safe connections for pedestrians and bicyclists within and
between park facilities and major destinations in the community.
• Strive to make all facilities and programs open and welcoming to people
of all ages and diverse backgrounds.
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GOAL 2: Provide a park system that assures high quality facilities,
buildings, grounds, trails, amenities, and natural settings.
Policies:
• Keep the park system up-to-date in terms of facilities, activities and
programs that are responsive to the community’s needs and wishes.
• Staff the park system adequately for the facilities, activities and programs
offered.
• Provide bicycle amenities in parks and along trails, including bike racks
and repair stations.
• Provide a sustainable funding stream and operate the park system in a
fiscally sound manner, including taking advantage of available grants.
Goal 3: Use the park system as a means to enhance and sustain the
environment of each neighborhood and the city as a whole.
Policies:
• Provide facilities, programs and opportunities in the park system that
bring people together and create community.
• Protect and enhance the environment by promoting native species and
pollinator friendly plantings, preventing and removing invasive species,
and reducing salt on roads and sidewalks.
• Protect and enhance native wildlife by considering their needs and habits
in our stewardship of park property and facilities.
• Ensure that stormwater is managed in park facilities in a manner that
protects and preserves water quality and the ecology of the watershed.
• Strive to make all park facilities, equipment and construction projects and
materials environmentally friendly and sustainable.
Goal 4: Cooperate with Dakota County and surrounding communities in
park and recreation facilities and programming.
Policies:
• Support the Dakota County 2030 Greenway Corridors Plan/Vision.
• Continue to cooperate with South St. Paul, West. St. Paul and other
neighboring communities on park and recreation programs and facilities.
• Encourage the preservation of open space by private property owners
and the City.
• Explore new opportunities and continue to work cooperatively with
School District #197, St. Thomas, Visitation, Fort Snelling State Park,
and other entities to provide maximum recreational opportunities and
avoid duplication.
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• Improve and expand safe bicycle and pedestrian connections to City
parks and other community destinations.
Historical Development
Previous Comprehensive Plans and Park Plans have guided the City in the
development of its park system. As development has occurred, parkland has
been dedicated to provide residents with recreational opportunities. Since the
adoption of the 1979 Comprehensive Plan, the City has made improvements to
all parks and has developed the following new parks: Copperfield Ponds,
Hagstrom-King, Kensington, Mendakota, Sibley, Valley View Heights, and
Victoria Highlands. The location of these new parks closely resembles Plan
recommendations and reflect the City’s commitment to providing park services to
all residents as opportunities arise.
Not only has the City made improvements and developed new parks, it has also
made efforts to maintain and protect existing open space. The City purchased
the 17-acre Mendota Heights Par 3 Golf Course after the private owners
proposed to develop the property into approximately 30 single family lots. The
City also joined with other public entities and purchased the 25.5-acre Pilot Knob
area, which will be retained as open space. Protection of the Pilot Knob area as
an important Dakota site has been identified as a critical issue for many residents
in the city.
Existing City Park Facilities and Types
Mendota Heights currently has 756.7 acres of City parks, golf courses, and open
space. The city also features part of the Fort Snelling State Park within their
boundaries, totaling an additional 771.2 acres. A brief discussion of the three
types of parks that typically comprise a local park system is provided below. The
descriptions and standards should serve as a guide. Other factors, such as
proximity to regional or county parks, financing, or major trends in recreation, will
also influence the evolution of the City’s park system. Regional and State parks
are discussed later in this chapter.
1) Neighborhood Park
Neighborhood parks are the basic unit of the park system and serve as the
recreational and social focus of the neighborhood. They accommodate a wide
variety of age and user groups, including children and adu lts. They create a
sense of place by bringing together the unique character of the site with that of
the neighborhood. Mendota Heights should seek to achieve a balance between
active and passive neighborhood parks. Neighborhood parks range from 5 -30
acres and serve a ½ mile area. Communities often will operate a joint
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4-4
neighborhood park with the school district and elementary schools. The City’s
neighborhood parks include Friendly Hills, Hagstrom -King, Ivy Hills, Marie, Valley
View Heights, Victoria Highland, and Wentworth.
2) Community Park
Community parks are designed to meet the recreational needs of several
neighborhoods or larger segments of the community. They are intended for lit
ballfields and larger athletic facilities or community gatherings. They can also be
designed to preserve unique landscapes and open spaces. They serve a ½ mile
to 5-mile radius. The City’s community parks include Kensington, Valley, Roger’s
Lake, Mendakota, and Sibley Athletic Complex.
3) Natural Resource Area
Natural resource areas are areas set aside to preserve significant or unique
landscapes. They are often, but not always, properties unsuitable for
development with steep slopes, drainageways, and ravines or wetlands. In
addition, there may be locations where local tree protection, shoreland and
critical area ordinances, or state and local wetland ordinances restrict
development in some way. Natural Resource areas include Friendly Marsh,
Copperfield Ponds, Valley Park, Pilot Knob Preservation, and Dodge Nature
Center.
City parks and natural resource areas are illustrated in Figure 4-1: Parks and
Trails.
State, Regional, and Private Parks and Open Spaces
In addition to the City’s parks, there are numerous regional, county and private
facilities within or near the City’s borders.
Fort Snelling State Park
As noted earlier in this chapter, Fort Snelling State Park is the largest park in
Mendota Heights with 7711 of its 2,642 acres located in the city. It provides
outdoor recreation opportunities and natural resource conserva tion for the public
and is considered part of the regional recreational open space system. Fort
Snelling State Park is a recreational state park offering swimming, large group
and family picnic grounds, a boat launch, interpretive center and historical areas,
trails, and scenic overlooks. Most of the park’s active facilities are located on the
Bloomington side of the River, requiring most Mendota Heights residents to drive
or bike across the I-494, I-35E, and Mendota bridges to access the park. The
Mendota Heights portion of the park is left primarily as a natural area as it
contains extensive floodplain marsh habitat. Facilities located in Mendota Heights
support less intensive uses, such as biking, hiking, cross country skiing, and
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft February 2018
4-5
fishing. The Sibley and Faribault historic sites are also located on the Mendota
Heights side of the River.
Other Private Facilities and Open Space
• Mendakota Country Club (18-hole private golf course)
• Somerset Country Club (18-hole private golf course)
• Acacia Park Cemetery
• Resurrection Cemetery
• St. Thomas Academy
• Visitation School
• St. Peter’s Cemetery
• St. Peter’s Church
Trail Facilities
Trails for biking, walking, and roller blading have become very popular in recent
years. 28.5 miles of off-road trails and 4.9 miles of wide shoulders and on-street
bicycle facilities currently extend through portions of the City’s neighborhoods.
These trails are both off- and on-road and serve as important connections for
recreational opportunities and travel.
Improved trail connections are important in Mendota Heights because many
residential areas are divided by highways and arterial roads. Access to the Big
Rivers Regional Trail is difficult due to the significant elevation changes. As a
result, many areas of the community cannot be easily accessed on bikes, roller
blades or foot from other areas of the community. Additional or improved trail
connections are needed to provide residents access to City parks and other
recreational opportunities in the region.
Regional Trails
Big Rivers Regional Trail: Developed in 1996 by Dakota County along the old
Union Pacific Railroad right-of-way, this trail enables residents to bike, walk, and
roller blade along the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers. This trail serves as an
important link to other communities and has greatly improved the awareness and
accessibility of the River.
North Urban Regional Trail (Mendota-Kaposia Trail): This trail serves as a link
from Big Rivers Valley Park to West St. Paul and to South St. Paul.
Local Trails and On-street Facilities
Mendota Heights has a network of paved and on-street bicycle facilities
connecting different neighborhoods in the city. Most bicycle and pedestrian
facilities in the city are off-street six to eight-foot-wide bituminous trails. There are
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4-6
also a few on-street bicycle facilities in the community, along Dodd Road,
Delaware Avenue, and Decorah Lane.
Regional and local park and trail facilities are illustrated in Figure 4-1: Parks and
Trails
Insert Parks and Trails Map
Future Park and Trail Needs
Future Park Needs
The City of Mendota Heights is committed to developing and enhancing their
park and open space system. City Park needs can be determined by evaluating
the number, size, and accessibility of parks. It is often recommended a park
system contain 25 acres of park for each 1,000 population, which is equal to
1,089 square feet per person. To meet this standard, the City would need to
provide 285 acres of parkland (based on the projected year 2040 population of
11,400 persons when fully developed). The City already meets these standards.
Are there any planned future parks?
Future Trail Connections
As part of their 2040 Regional Parks Policy Plan, the Metropolitan Council
identified future regional trail opportunities and priority trail corridors. Providing
connections north-south and east-west through Mendota Heights will be critical,
as well as, a route along the Minnesota River. There are three planned trail
connections and improvements within Mendota Heights. These trail segments
are listed below and illustrated in Figure 4-2: Planned Trails and Future Need.
Planned Paved Trail: Under the Mendota Bridge, along the Minnesota River
connecting to the Sibley Historic Site
Planned Bike Lane: Along Cheyenne Street between Apache Street and Huber
Drive
Planned Bike Lane: Along Annapolis Street at the City’s northern border.
Insert Regional Bike Facilities Map
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PROPOSED NORTH URBAN REGIONAL TRAIL
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Parks and Trails
City of Mendota Heights
µ0 3,000 6,000 Feet
February 6, 2018
Source: City of Mendota Heights,
Dakota County, 2016
Off Street Bituminous
Trail (6' to 8' wide)
Proposed North Urban Regional Trail
(Dakota County)
Wide Shoulders/On Street
City Park
State Park
Golf Course
Nature Preserve
Open Water
Wetland
Parks:
1) Friendly Hills Park
2) Friendly Marsh Park
3) Hagstrom King Park
4) Ivy Hills Park
5) Kensington Park
6) Marie Park
7) Mendakota Park
8) Rogers Lake Park
9) Valley Park
10) Victoria Highland Park
11) Wentworth Park
12) Valley View Heights Park
13) Copperfield Ponds
14) Sibley Park
15) Civic Center Ball Park
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GUN CLUB LAKE DODDRDDODDRDDELAWAREAVESIBLEYMEMORIALHWYMARIE AVE W
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Bicycle Facilities and Plan
City of Mendota Heights
µ0 3,000 6,000 Feet
City Boundary
Metropolitan Council Tier 1 RBTN Alignments
Metropolitan Council Tier 2 RBTN Alignments
Metropolitan Council Tier 1 Priority Regional Bicycle Transportation Corridor
USBR 45 Mississippi River Trail Bikeway
2007 Bikeway Inventory:
Existing Bike Lane
Planned Bike Lane
Existing Non-Paved Trail
Existing Paved Trail
Planned Paved Trail
Existing Roadway with Shoulder >= 5'
Other Bicycle Facilities
Paved Trail, N
December 8, 2016
Source: Metropolitan Council, 2016
5-1
5
Housing
The health and character of a community may best be measured in its housing
stock. Vital cities provide a variety of housing choices and work to ensure that
existing housing is well maintained. The City of Mendota Heights must also
ensure that new housing meets the changing needs of the community. Existing
and future residents are looking for more services and amenities near where they
choose to live, including convenient shopping options and easily-accessible
walking and biking trails. Housing has evolved into more than a place to live, but
a community in which to thrive.
Where people live is important. For many Americans, a high-quality environment,
walkable neighborhoods and diversity make a neighborhood a great place to live.
Not only does Mendota Heights need to provide housing options for current
residents to stay in the city if their family size or income changes, but the city
should be welcoming to those who desire to live in Mendota Heights.
This chapter includes goals and policies to promote housing opportunities in
Mendota Heights, followed by an assessment of existing housing stock, tenure,
and affordability.
Goals and Policies
Goals, policies, and programs shall be identified to assist the City of Mendota
Heights in decision-making regarding the preservation of its current housing
stock and the development of new units. Goals and policies typically address
development and redevelopment expectations, housing maintenance and
preservation, and density and diversity of housing type.
GOAL 1: Preserve and improve existing neighborhoods and housing units.
Policies:
• Continue to enforce housing maintenance and zoning codes.
• Explore options for flexibility in Zoning Code standards to encourage and
allow expansion and reinvestment in existing houses.
• Partner with Dakota County, Metropolitan Council, the State of
Minnesota and other agencies that provide housing rehabilitation
programs and services.
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5-2
• Protect public safety by requiring owners to repair substandard housing
or as a last resort, abate and demolish dangerous housing.
• Develop a housing maintenance program that promotes and requires
safe homes and attractive neighborhoods.
GOAL 2: Meet future needs with a variety of housing products.
Policies:
• Encourage life-cycle housing opportunities in Mendota Heights that allow
residents to remain in the community throughout their lives. This
includes:
o Maintenance of existing entry level housing.
o Construction of move-up single family housing.
o Construction of various types of senior housing, including senior
ownership units, senior rental units, memory care and assisted
living units.
o Providing a mix of affordable housing opportunities for all income
levels, age groups, and special housing needs.
• Encourage environmentally sustainable housing developm ent and
construction practices.
• Provide for housing development that maintains the attractiveness and
distinct neighborhood characteristics in the community.
• Support the maintenance and rehabilitation of the community’s existing
housing stock.
• Periodically assess the housing needs in the community, including the
elderly, disabled, active retirees, and other groups with special housing
needs to determine development priorities and to formulate strategies to
meet those needs and maintain an adequate and quality housing supply.
Assessment of Housing Stock
The following includes an assessment of the current housing stock within the City
of Mendota Heights. It includes information on the tenure of occupants; the
number, type, and age of housing units; and housing costs. The remainder of
the Housing Plan addresses affordable housing needs, goals and policies of the
City, and an implementation section identifying ways to address the City’s
housing needs.
Housing Types and Tenure
Table 5-1 illustrates the existing housing types by the units in the structure.
According to the 2016 American Community Survey, 98.5 percent of the total
housing units in Mendota Heights were occupied, while only 1.5 percent were
vacant.
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Out of the occupied housing units in the City, 88 percent are owner-occupied,
while only 12 percent are renter-occupied. This is compared to the national
average of 63.4 percent of the occupied housing units in the United States being
owner-occupied, while 36.4 percent are renter-occupied. (Source: American
Community Survey, 2012-2016 estimates). Mendota Heights is well above the
national average for owner-occupied housing units. The majority of housing units
in the City are single-family, detached structures, with multi-family properties and
single-family attached homes being other common unit types in the city.
Table 5-1: Housing Type by Units in Structure
Single Family Two
Unit
Three +
Unit
Mobile
Home
Total
Detached Attached
Number of Units 3,362 623 19 680 9 4,693
Percent of Stock 71.6% 13.3% 0.4% 14.5% 0.2% 100%
Source: Metropolitan Council, American Community Survey, 2016
Age of Housing
Mendota Heights experienced a rapid pace of housing construction, starting in
the 1940s and continuing through the 1950s. During this time period (1940 to
1959), 850 housing units were constructed. This pace slowed in the 1960s, but
starting picking up again in the 1970s, when 662 housing units were constructed.
Housing construction peaked in the 1980s when 1,162 housing units were built.
This number accounts for twenty-seven percent (27%) of the total housing units
that were constructed in 2000 and prior. Between 1990 and 1998, another 910
housing units were constructed within the City. The number of housing units
slowed in the 2000s, as the amount of vacant land available within the City was
minimal. Housing stock age is mapped in Figure 5-1.
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Built before 1970
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Built between 1980 and 1990
Built between 1990 and 2000
Built after 2000
City Boundary
Open Water
December 8, 2016
Source: Dakota County, 2016
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft February 2018
5-5
Housing Value and Rent
The median home value in Mendota Heights is $351,100, which is much higher
than the Dakota County median value of $226,900 and much higher than the
Twin Cities Metropolitan Area median of $212,600. Compared to other
communities in the region, Mendota Heights’ housing values are above average.
Housing values in Mendota Heights are mapped in Figure 5-2.
Table 5-2: Median Housing Values in and around Mendota Heights
Community Median Housing Value
Mendota Heights $351,100
Eagan $251,500
Inver Grove Heights $216,400
Dakota County $226,900
Twin Cities Metropolitan Area $212,600
Source: American Community Survey, 2016
The median rent in Mendota Heights is $1,097 per month, which is higher than
the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area ($916) and higher than Dakota County
($1,003). Compared to other communities in the area, Mendota Heights’ median
rent is slightly higher. This may be attributed to the large number of single family
homes that are rented in the City as well as the development of new, market rate
apartment units in the Village neighborhood. Table 5-3 includes median monthly
rents in nearby communities.
Table 5-3: Median Rent in and around Mendota Heights
Community Median Monthly Rent
Mendota Heights $1,097
Eagan $1,074
Inver Grove Heights $990
Dakota County $1,003
Twin Cities Metropolitan Area $916
Source: American Community Survey, 2016
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Housing Affordability
Affordable Housing Stock in Mendota Heights
The Metropolitan Council defines home ownership affordability as $85,500 for
households making less than 30 percent Area Median Income (AMI), $153,000
for households making 31-50 percent AMI, and $240,500 for households making
51-80 percent AMI. In Mendota Heights, the median home value is $351,100,
indicating that much of the City’s housing stock is unaffordable at 80 percent AMI
or lower. Housing affordability is discussed further later in this cha pter.
These housing stock characteristics in Mendota Heights are summarized in
Table 5-4.
Table 5-4: Affordable Housing Stock in Mendota Heights
Total Number of
Units
4,693
Number of
Affordable Units
At or below 30% AMI 31-50% AMI 51-80% AMI
50 311 1,053
Number of
Publicly
Subsidized Units
Senior Housing People with
Disabilities
All other publicly
subsidized units
110 0 24
Source: Metropolitan Council
Cost Burdened Households
Many residents in communities across the Twin Cities experience challenges
affording their housing costs. The Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD) defines housing to be affordable if the residents do not pay
more than 30 percent of their income towards housing costs. Housing costs can
include rent or mortgage payments, utility bills, HOA fees or other fees
associated with living in the home. Residents who pay more than 30 percent are
considered “Cost-burdened”. In Mendota Heights, over seven hundred
households (16.8 percent of households) are considered to be cost-burdened.
Table 5-4 describes the cost burdened households by median income level.
Table 5-4: Housing Cost Burdened Households
Household Income Level Number of Cost-burdened Households
At or below 30% AMI 229
31 to 50% AMI 270
51 to 80% AMI 237
Total Households 736
Source: Metropolitan Council
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Housing Projections and Need
Although the City of Mendota Heights is relatively build out, it will still need to
accommodate for new residents of all socioeconomic backgrounds. The
Metropolitan Council requires that Mendota Heights must supply 23 new units of
affordable housing (at or below 80 percent AMI) by 2040. The units must be
affordable at different levels, described below in Table 5-5.
Table 5-5: Affordable Unit Allocations for Mendota Heights
Household Income Level Number of Units
At or below 30% AMI 18
31 to 50% AMI 2
51 to 80% AMI 3
Total Households 23
Source: Metropolitan Council
Strategies to Promote a Diverse Housing Stock
In order for Mendota Heights to meets its goals and policies pertaining to
housing, and especially to accommodate the projected needs of affordable
housing units, the City can rely on a number of existing programs and policies to
promote housing stock diversity. Numerous efforts are available for Mendota
Heights to employ in order to facilitate the construction of affordable housing and
to expand local housing options including regional, state, and national programs,
fiscal devices, official controls, and land use regulation.
Livable Communities Act
In 1995, Minnesota Legislature created the Livable Communities Act (LCA) as
defined by MN State Statute 473.25. The LCA is a voluntary, incentive-based
approach to help the Metro Area communities address affordable and lifecycle
housing needs. The LCA provides funds to communities to assist them in
carrying out their development plans for affordable hou sing and creation of new
jobs.
Participation in the Local Housing Incentives Program portion of the LCA requires
communities to negotiate housing goals with the Council and prepare a Housing
Action Plan.
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft March 2018
5-8
Livable Communities Demonstration Accounts (LCDA)
LCDA funds support regional growth strategies promoting development and
redevelopment that make efficient and cost-effective use of urban lands and
infrastructure; improve jobs, housing, transportation, and service connections;
and expand affordable and lifecycle housing choices in the region. The funds are
available to municipalities that participate in the Local Housing Incentives
Program of the Livable Communities Act (LCA). The LCDA is open to local
housing and redevelopment authorities, economic development authorities or
port authorities in LCA-participating cities, or to counties on behalf of projects
located in LCA-participating cities.
As the name of the account suggests, LCDA funds are intended to be used for
projects that demonstrate innovative and new ways to achieve and implement
the statutory objectives, not merely to fill project funding needs.
Local Housing Incentive Account (LHIA)
LHIA grants help to produce new and rehabilitated affordable rental and
homeownership, promote the Council’s policy to expand and preserve lifecycle
and affordable housing options to meet changing demographic trends and
market preferences, and support the region’s economic competitiveness.
Tax Base Revitalization Account (TBRA)
The TBRA provides funds to clean up polluted land to make it available for
economic redevelopment, job retention, and job growth, or the production of
affordable housing to enhance the tax base of the recipient municipality. TBRA
funds are raised by a legislatively authorized levy capped at $5 million annually.
If the TBRA project includes a housing component, a portion of the housing is
required to be affordable. Ownership units are considered affordable if they can
be purchased by buyers earning 80% of the area median income (AMI).
Affordable rental units are those renting at the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit
rent limits based on 50% of the AMI.
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program
The CDBG Program is provided through the U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development. The CDBG program is a flexible program that provides
communities with resources to address a wide range of unique community
development needs. The CDBG program works to ensure decent affordable
housing, to provide services to the most vulnerable in our communities, and to
create jobs through the expansion and retention of businesses.
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Fiscal Devices
Fiscal devices, such as revenue bonds, tax increment, financing, or tax
abatement can be used to help ease the construction and availability of
affordable housing in the City of Mendota Heights.
Official Controls
Official controls and land use regulation can be used to assist in the construction
of affordable housing units. Controls and regulations can also be used to simplify
the process of expanding local housing options also.
The following is a list of official controls that the City of Mendota Heights can use
to implement its housing goals and policies: Zoning Ordinance, Subdivision
Ordinance, Building Codes, Design Requirements, lot splits and new home
construction, and the actual approval process itself. These regulatory tools
impact the type and cost of new housing.
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6
Economic Development
A strong community is not simply about housing and parks but also economic
vitality. Mendota Heights seeks to support its community through a diverse mix
of commercial offerings, retention and expansion of job-generating businesses,
and preserving land for commercial and industrial activities that is adequately
buffered from nearby residential areas.
Regional Context
While the Metropolitan Council does not require Comprehensive Plans to include
an economic development element, it is recommended to achieve regional goals
for economic competitiveness. They highlight the need for providing great
locations for businesses to succeed, particularly industries that export products
or services beyond our region and bring revenue and jobs into the region. The
Metropolitan Council defines two key terms related to this element:
• Economic Competitiveness – Examining and strengthening the ability of
the region to compete effectively and prosper in the global economy.
• Economic Development – Activities that directly aim to retain, attract, and
grow businesses that bring wealth into a community or region.
While the City focuses its efforts on growing businesses within its own boundary,
it is critical to understand the context for that growth within the region and work
with regional partners to achieve shared success.
Economic Development topics addressed in this chapter include :
• Economic Overview
• Redevelopment and Business Development
• Education and Workforce
• Economic Information, Monitoring, and Strategic Initiatives
Goals and Policies
GOAL 1: PROMOTE ECONOMIC DEVELOMENT IN MENDOTA HEIGHTS
THROUGH A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO BUSINESS NEEDS.
Policies:
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• Manage growth and land resources to ensure an appropriate mix of
development and an adequate land supply to secure new business
investments.
• Retain the present industrial and commercial base and assist companies
with their expansion needs where appropriate.
• Attract quality businesses consistent with the City’s target market to
areas available for development.
• Encourage an adequate supply of sites and buildings to meet the
demand for commercial and industrial development.
• Maintain an infrastructure system to meet the needs of current
businesses and facilitate future growth.
• Address unique development challenges including the reuse and
redevelopment of vacant buildings.
• Forster private investment and economic activity without compromising
community objectives to maintain and enhance Mendota Heights’
environment.
GOAL 2: PROMOTE BUSINESS ATTRACTION, RETENTION, AND
EXPANSION IN MENDOTA HEIGHTS.
Policies:
• Identify target markets and prepare and implement a marketing plan to
attract businesses that fit this market.
• Work with local businesses and industry to ensure needs for expansion
and development are adequately met and maintain an open line of
communication with the business sector through the Business Retention
and Expansion Program.
• Continue to actively market Mendota Heights to commercial brokers and
retail businesses to expand retail opportunities in the City.
• Work cooperatively with local business groups, the school district, and
area colleges and universities to provide training for workers with the
skills needed for existing and future Mendota Heights businesses.
GOAL 3: PROMOTE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT THROUGH PUBLIC
FINANCING TOOLS.
Policies:
• Periodically review economic development opportunities, such as
incentive programs from the county, regional and state.
• Review new and innovative economic development incentives for
application in Mendota Heights.
• Pursue outside funding sources to develop or redevelop land for
commercial and industrial uses, such as Metropolitan Council Livable
Communities Demonstration Account and Tax Base Revitalization
Account, Dakota County Community Development Agency (CDA),
Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, and
other applicable grants.
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GOAL 4: CONTINUE TO DEVELOP COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL AREAS
THAT SERVE THE WHOLE COMMUNITY.
Policies:
• Provide and support commercial areas to supply convenience goods and
services for residents of Mendota Heights.
• To mitigate conflicts between commercial and residential development,
require appropriate land use transitions at the edges of residential
neighborhoods through the use of setbacks, screening, buffering and
fencing.
• Require sidewalk connections along major streets leading up to
neighborhood commercial centers and direct connections from the public
sidewalk to the storefronts.
GOAL 5: CONTINUE TO DEVELOP BUSINESS PARK AREAS THAT
PROVIDE JOBS AND SERVE THE LOCAL AND REGIONAL ECONOMY.
Policies:
• Provide opportunities for new industrial development and expanded
employment opportunities to create livable-wage positions in Mendota
Heights and the redevelopment of existing industrial uses to serve
existing businesses in the community.
• Provide attractive, planned environments as means to induce employers
to locate within the city.
• Continue to provide and enforce standards for industrial developments
that improve the appearance and character of industrial properties.
• Provide high quality public services and infrastructure in all commercial
and industrial districts.
Economic Overview
A 2016 report by Tangible Consulting Services evaluated the market and
development conditions in preparation for the comprehensive plan update (see
Appendix X). It overviewed the unique demography and economic base that
characterizes the city and investigated the market and development factors that
will shape future growth in housing, retail, and industrial development.
Mendota Heights is a fully developed suburb. While that status limits
opportunities for new development, there is a need to stay viable and attractive
as the demographics of the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area shift. The
population is growing, it is aging, and more households will be renters. Choices
about purchasing and employment will also evolve. Decisions about housing
redevelopment, retail support and location, and office and employment
opportunities will influence Mendota Heights’ character as a desirable place to
live.
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Redevelopment and Business Development
Opportunities for business investment will likely fall into the categories of retail
and industrial uses. Retail areas in Mendota Heights benefit from their visibility
from the heavily traveled Highway 110 corridor. They also benefit from their
distance from other retailers. Their distance from retail centers in the near by
communities of Eagan and West St. Paul gives Mendota Heights retailers a
monopoly on neighborhood goods and services for residents in the surrounding
neighborhoods. These locational characteristics are likely to keep the areas
strong into the future. Mendota Heights is more limited in its prospects for
destination retail given its competition in this category in surrounding
communities.
The Mendota Heights Industrial District (MHID) is an important contributor to the
tax base compared to nearby competing areas. It is in the South Central
industrial submarket of the Twin Cities which encompasses West St. Paul, South
St. Paul, Inver Grove Heights, Eagan, Apple Valley, and Burnsville. New
industrial development in the South Central Submarket is coming online more
slowly than in the metro area overall.
Figure 6-1: Industrial Comparison Areas
The Mendota Heights Industrial District is attractively positioned for continued
business occupancy due to its central location in the region, proximity to the
airport, flat topography, diversity of existing tenants, and available utilities. One
of the major weaknesses is the limited opportunity for on-site facility expansion
and very few sites for new industrial development.
0.0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
1.2
Land Value per acre Taxes per acreValue Compared to Mendota HeightsMendota Heights Industrial District
Burnsville Cliff Road
Eagan Dodd Road
Cottage Grove Business Park
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The office buildings in the Mendota Heights Industrial District and the Centre
Pointe Business Park operate in a different competitive environment than the
industrial facilities. Vacancy rates tend to be higher in office properties. Office
development clusters into districts within the metropolitan area due to transit
availability and proximity to amenities.
Office buildings in Mendota Heights’ two districts are 20 years old on average
and together offer around 1.4 million square feet of floor area. Market indicators
are mixed for office buildings in Mendota Heights – the 2016 vacancy rate is
lower than the metro as a whole but rents are also lower.
Retail Redevelopment Opportunities
While there are limited opportunities for additional retail in Mendota Heights, two
exist:
• Expanding retail opportunities beyond what is already planned at
Mendota Plaza and The Village at Mendota Heights along Highway 110
at Dodd Road.
• Better capturing the daytime population at the Mendota Heights Industrial
District. Small footprint retail and restaurants could better serve these
employees.
Industrial Redevelopment Opportunities
The Mendota Heights Industrial District Redevelopment Plan makes several
recommendations for actions to strengthen the area’s attractiveness to industrial
users and invite building renovation and improvement. These include:
• Explore ways to communicate, brand, and promote the Industrial District
• Consider city policies toward redevelopment incentives to potentially
implement on future projects
• Consider investments in broadband and other technology infrastructure
as necessary to ensure the area is competitive and serves the business
needs.
Office Redevelopment Opportunities
To support continued viability of the office areas in Mendota Heights,
consideration could be given to actions such as:
• Strengthen the office identity and branding of the southern part of the
Mendota Heights Industrial District. Let the district be part of the broader
Eagan/Mendota Heights office district.
• Build the amenity base of the area with the addition of some retail and
restaurants, even if the opportunities to do so are limited.
Education and Workforce
A strong, educated workforce supports local businesses and gives Mendota
Heights residents an opportunity to work and go to school close to home. If a
community has daytime workers, it leads to more retail and restaurant offerings
since those businesses can now capture a daytime crowd in addition to evenings
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and weekends. Additionally, residents who can work close to home reduce
transportation costs and gain more time in their day that would have otherwise be
spent on a long commute.
Education
While Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts is the only post-secondary school
located directly in Mendota Heights, the city’s proximity to St. Paul proves to be
an asset for educational options. Directly across the river is the College of St.
Catherine, St. Paul College, Concordia College of St. Paul, and other renowned
institutions.
Workforce
Mendota Heights has a unique employment profile for a Twin Cities suburb.
Businesses in Mendota Heights offer a high number of good-paying jobs and
there are almost two jobs in Mendota Heights for every employed person who
lives in the city. However, most Mendota Heights workers commute to jobs
outside of the city. Of the roughly 5,500 workers who live in Mendota Heights,
almost 95% go to work at a location outside the city limits. Only around 300
residents work at a business in Mendota Heights.
While some jobs are in neighborhood serving retail businesses and the
community’s educational institutions, the great majority of jobs in Mendota
Heights are in the industrial facilities and offices in the city’s industrial and office
areas.
The majority of employment in Mendota Heights is focused in two distinct areas –
the Mendota Heights Industrial District and the Centre Point Business Park.
Figure 6-2: Industrial and Office Context
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Source: Mendota Heights Assessor Data
Businesses in the Mendota Heights Industrial District (MHID) offer over 7,000
principal jobs. The MHID is home to a mix of industrial and office developments.
The Centre Pointe Business Park offers around 800 jobs. The business park
was developed in the 1990s and 2000s and is comprised entirely of office
buildings. Industrial and office jobs tend to pay a living wage which are higher on
average than jobs in some other sectors such as retail stores and services.
Economic Information, Monitoring, and Strategic
Initiatives
Through a partnership with the Dakota County Community Development Agency
(CDA) and the Metropolitan Consortium of Community Developers (MCCD), the
City makes available a certified “Open to Business” consultant to offer free
services to local businesses. The service is free to any Mendota Heights
business or resident. Experts help businesses plan by providing information of
business start-up or acquisition, creating a business plan, evaluating financials,
and analyzing the viability of commercial sites.
The West St. Paul WorkForce Center is a valuable tool for local job seekers and
businesses searching for employees in the surrounding communities. Part of a
larger initiative sponsored by the Minnesota Department of Employment and
Economic Development (DEED), job seekers have access to job search
coaching, information for veterans and people who require special services,
training programs for in-demand occupations, and a free online job bank.
Businesses can get help finding workers, developing a workforce strategy,
locating and expanding their business, and data analysis on the local labor
market.
The City also partners with the Dakota County CDA on strategic initiatives such
as:
• Investing in transportation
• Coordinating strategic infrastructure and land development
• Linking workforce development and economic development
• Building the capacity to respond to business prospects
• Providing quality workforce housing
• Strengthening development-related research and policy capacity
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7
Resilience
Resilient land use and development will help to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions and mitigate the negative impacts of climate change in the Twin Cities
region. In their Thrive MSP 2040 Plan, the Metropolitan Council outlines the
importance of resilience and climate adaptation for the entire region. According to
the Council’s Thrive MSP, sustainability and resilience are related but have
different purposes.
Resilience: A way of looking at planning and policy though the lens of climate
change and adaptation.
Sustainability: A key outcome to strive for to 2040. This outcome looks like
“protecting regional vitality for future generations by preserving our capacity to
maintain and support our region’s well-being and productivity.”
Although Resilience is not a required element for comprehensive plans in the
region, Mendota Heights is committed to promoting resilient and sustainable
development in all aspects of their community. This chapter addresses resiliency
in land use, energy, and natural resources in Mendota Heights. Resilience topics
addressed in this chapter include:
• Existing Programs and Policies
• Solar Access
• Climate Change, Infrastructure, and Hazard Mitigation
Goals and Policies
GOAL 1: Support, plan for, and encourage the use of solar energy as an
alternative energy source.
Policies:
• Consider modification of existing ordinances to protect access of direct
sunlight to rooftops of all principal structures.
• Encourage developers to establish covenants that do not restrict the
development and use of active and/or passive solar energy systems.
• Encourage buildings and developers to offer solar energy system
options, to the extent practical, for space heating and cooling and hot
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft March 2018
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water heating in new residential, commercial and industrial
developments.
• Enforce zoning regulations as necessary to ensure that as many new
lots in the city as possible offer proper solar orientation.
• Encourage residential solar development that complies with the City’s
zoning code and maintains community character.
GOAL 2: Develop policies that support active living and healthy food
options in Mendota Heights.
Policies:
• Support community and residential gardens for food production.
• Develop trail and park facilities in areas lacking these amenities,
especially areas with vulnerable populations such as seniors, young
children, low income residents, and communities of color.
• Support the development of a City of Mendota Heights Farmers
Market as an alternative source for local, healthy food.
Existing Resilient Programs and Policies
Recycling and Organics Composting
The City of Mendota Heights participates in Dakota County’s curb-side recycling
program and residents can opt-in to participating in the County’s organics drop
off program in West St. Paul. Businesses are also eligible to participate in
recycling programs with the County to further reduce waste in the City.
Ordinances Supporting Resilience
Solar Access
• Alternative Energy Access: The City of Mendota Heights has adopted an
alternative energy systems ordinance (§12-1D-18), discussed further in
the Solar Access section of this chapter.
Food Systems
• Keeping Chickens: The City of Mendota Heights permits residents to
keep up to four female chickens for the purpose of individual egg
production (§12-1D-3). The City’s code specifies coop and run
requirements as well as guidance on proper care and the permitting
process for domestic chickens on residential lots.
• Farming Operations: Existing farms are permitted in the City, with the
exception of animal farming (poultry, kennels, etc.) (§12-1D-8). Farmers
may also sell products produced at an on-site farmstand.
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Solar Access
The City of Mendota Heights is committed to a resilient future, including
promoting renewable energy where feasible. The City has existing code
language supporting residential rooftop and ground-mounted solar development
throughout the community. Although solar energy systems are allowed in all
zoning districts, systems must be accessory to the primary land use. Large-scale
commercial solar farms or gardens are not currently allowed in Mendota Heights.
The ordinance also addresses building-integrated solar systems and passive
solar energy systems. As stated in the goals for this chapter and emphasized in
their code of ordinances, Mendota Heights supports the development of solar
energy systems that result in a net gain in energy and do not have negative
impacts on surrounding uses and surrounding solar access. This Plan also
includes information on gross solar resources to provide data context to these
recommendations.
Gross and Rooftop Solar Resources
The Metropolitan Council has calculated the gross and rooftop solar potential for
the City of Mendota Heights to identify how much electricity could be generated
using existing technology. The gross solar potential and gross solar rooftop
potential are expressed in megawatt hours per year (Mwh/yr), and these
estimates are based on the solar map for your community. Developed areas with
low building heights and open space areas have the highest potential for solar
development in the City. Many of the developed neighborhoods and some
natural areas in Mendota Heights do not have high gross solar potential due to
existing tree cover. This gross development potential is included in Table X.
Areas of high solar potential are included in Figure X, for reference.
Table X: Solar Potential in Mendota Heights
Source: Metropolitan Council
35E
Mendota
Heig hts DODD RDWENTWORTH AVE W
HIGHWAY 110
MENDOTA HEIGHTS RDLEXINGTON AVE SONEILL RD DELAWARE AVEPILOT KNOB RDHIGHWAY 13MARIE AVE W
55
55
110
High : 1276135
Low : 9 00001
Solar P otential under 900,000 watt-hours per year
County Boundaries
City and Township Boundaries
Wetlands and Open Water Features
Gross Solar Potential
Source: University of Minnesota U-Spatial Statewide Solar Raster.
ANOKA
DAKOTA
HENNEPIN
RAMSEY
SCOTT
WASHINGTON
CARVER
Extent of Main Map
0 1 20.5
Miles
12/22/2016
City of Mendota Heights, Dakota County
Gross Solar Potential
(Watt-hours per Year)
MENDOTA
LILYDALE
Gross Solar Potential
City of Mendota Heights
µ0 3,000 6,000 Feet
City Boundary
January 30, 2018
Source: Metropolitan Council
35EMendotaHeights DODD RDWENTWORTH AVE WHIGHWAY110
MENDOTA HEIGHTS RDLEXINGTON AVE SONEILL RD DELAWARE AVEPILOT KNOB RDHIGHWAY 13MARIE AVE W
55
55 110
High : 1276135
Low : 9 00001
Solar Potential under 900,000 watt-hours per year
County Boundaries
City and Township Boundaries
Wetlands and Open Water Features
Gross Solar Potential
Source: University of Minnesota U-Spatial Statewide Solar Raster.
ANOKA
DAKOTA
HENNEPIN
RAMSEY
SCOTT
WASHINGTON
CARVER
Extent of Main Map
0 1 20.5
Miles
12/22/2016
City of Mendota Heights, Dakota County
Gross Solar Potential
(Watt-hours per Year)
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Climate Change, Infrastructure, and Hazard Mitigation
In 2016, Dakota County developed an All-Hazard Mitigation Plan. This plan
incorporated numerous cities and townships in Dakota County and was
developed to identify and prepare for a variety of hazards such as flooding or
tornadoes before they occur. The purpose of the plan is to reduce the loss of
lives and property damage in the event of a hazard occurring in the area. The All-
Hazard Mitigation Plan includes a list of goals, objectives and strategies for the
county to better prepare and coordinate efforts for disasters. The goals of the
plan include:
1. Reduce Hazard Risks and Impacts
2. Build on Existing Efforts
3. Share Information and Raise Awareness
This plan serves as a framework for managing public and private investment in
the face of a changing climate and more severe storm events. Mendota Heights
should work with Dakota County on future updates to the All-Hazard Mitigation
Plan and collaborate on county-wide sustainability efforts to be best prepared for
these events.