NRC Packet 01082025CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
January 8, 2025 at 6:00 PM
Mendota Heights City Hall
Council Chambers
1.Call to Order
2.Roll Call
3.Adopt Agenda
4.Approval of Minutes
a.Approve meeting minutes from the December 11, 2024 Natural Resources
Commission Meeting.
5.Citizen Comment Period (for items not on the agenda)
6.New Business
a.Commissioner Resignation
b.Annual Commissioner Orientation
7.Old Business
a.Partners in Energy Update
b.2025 Workplan Review
8.Staff Announcements
9.Commission Comments
10.Committee Reports
11.Adjourn
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NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION
MENDOTA HEIGHTS CITY HALL
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
December 11, 2024 Mendota Heights Natural Resources Commission Page 1 of 7
Wednesday, December 11, 2024, 2024, 6:00 p.m.
Draft Meeting Minutes
The work session meeting of the Mendota Heights Natural Resources Commission was held on Wednesday
December 11, 2024, at Mendota Heights City Hall; 1101 Victoria Curve.
1.Call to Order
Vice Chair Knosalla called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. No quorum was present.
2.Roll Call
Natural Resources Coordinator Spreiter called the roll. Commissioners present: Vice Chair Knosalla,
Commissioners Fahnhorst and Sheets. Student Commissioner Trudeau.
Commissioners Absent: Chair Swank, Commissioners Husbands, McCaslin (arrived at 6:25 p.m.), and
Stein.
Staff present: Natural Resources Coordinator Krista Spreiter.
Citizen Comment Period – No one appeared to address the Commission
5. New Business
a. Municipal Separate Stormwater System (MS4) 2024 Annual Report
Natural Resources Coordinator Krista Spreiter reviewed the Commission is asked to hear the Annual
Report given on the city’s Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit and Surface Water
Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP). Ms. Spreiter presented a PowerPoint.
The MPCA requires the City to maintain a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit. The
permit was renewed under the new 2020 MS4 General Permit. The goal of the MS4 Program is to
reduce the amount of pollutants entering state waters from municipal and other stormwater systems,
and ultimately protect our surface waters. As part of the requirement, the City must develop a Surface
Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). There are six Minimum Control Measures (MCMs) that the
City is required to fulfill.
1. Public Education and Outreach
2. Public Participation/Involvement
3. Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination
4. Construction Site Runoff and Control
5. Post-Construction Runoff Control
6. Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping
MCM 1: Public Education and Outreach - Educational Materials and information provided in Friday
News, Heights Highlights, and the City’s Website and on social media. Events, classes and programs
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December 11, 2024 Mendota Heights Natural Resources Commission Page 2 of 7
such as Landscaping for Clean Water, the Fishing Derby, Trick or Teeing, and Earth and Arbor Day
Celebration.
MCM 2: Public Participation/Involvement – City must provide a minimum of one annual opportunity
for the public to provide input on the City’s SWPPP. The SWPPP is posted on the City’s Website. The
City hosts a rain barrel sale and cleanup event annually (Earth and Arbor Day) and will continue to
participate in Adopt-a-Drain, CAMP and WHEP.
MCM 3: Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination – City must maintain a storm sewer map that
includes all pipes 12 inches or greater, outfalls, and structural stormwater Best Management Practices
(MBPs). Required regulatory mechanisms. Have a procedure that provides a means for, and tracks,
IDDE. Establish a regulatory mechanism that requires proper salt storage at commercial, institutional,
and non-NPDES permitted industrial facilities.
MCM 4: Construction Site Stormwater Runoff Control – Regulatory mechanism for erosion, sediment
and waste controls. Review site plans. Conduct site inspections every 2 weeks, and after every .5 inch
or larger storm event.
MCM 5: Post-Construction Runoff Control – Regulatory mechanism that establishes requirements for
post-construction stormwater management. Maintain a written or mapped inventory of public and
private structural stormwater BMPs. Ensure compliance and enforcement on new development.
MCM 6: Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping – Mapped inventory of City owned/operated
facilities that contribute to stormwater discharges. Inspect and maintain all City-owned facilities.
Inspect structural BMPs and outfalls annually. Inspect all stormwater ponds on a 5-year cycle. Perform
maintenance based on inspections. Implement/install permanent BMPs on City projects/municipal
operations. Maintain and implement written snow and ice management policy.
The public is encouraged to comment on the City’s Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program at any
time. The full report can be found on the City’s website or requested in-person at City Hall. Meeting
the goals for the annual permit coverage from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency are covered
separately under the storm water utility fund. Stormwater improvement projects are presented to City
Council individually as required.
Commissioner Sheets referred to the landscaping for clean water program and noted the County does
offer grants for homeowners who are interested in going through the program. Ms. Spreiter stated
that is a great program. They offer classes and help planning projects.
Commissioner Fahnhorst referred to the clean water practices and asked how the process works for
construction. Ms. Spreiter stated it is required through the State that developers need to have their
own SWPPP. New impervious needs to have permanent stormwater treatment. This could be rain
gardens or infiltration basins. There is a guidance document for contractors that spells out the State
and City requirements. This can also be found on the City’s website.
Commissioner Sheets asked when residents spot something that they are not sure if they should
report. What should they look for? Ms. Spreiter stated if a resident sees anything but stormwater
runoff going down a storm drain the City should be notified. They could also report it to the State.
Clean-up efforts would be put into place as soon as possible.
Vice Chair Knosalla asked about the brine. Ms. Spreiter explained that it is a liquid mixture that is
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December 11, 2024 Mendota Heights Natural Resources Commission Page 3 of 7
applied to the streets prior to a storm event to keep the ice from building up. Vice Chair Knosalla
stated that the mini-golf hole-in-one turned out beautifully. She commended Student Representative
Trudeau on her planning efforts.
Commissioner Sheets stated the outreach was keeping leaves out of the road and going into the storm
sewer. She asked if there is any additional guidance. Ms. Spreiter stated through adopt-a-drain there
are suggestions.
b. Interstate Valley Creek BMP and Stabilization Project Update
Coordinator Spreiter reviewed the Commission will hear a presentation on the status of the Interstate
Valley Creek Stabilization and Best Management Practice (BMP) project.
The City of Mendota Heights has partnered with Dakota County and the Lower Mississippi River WMO
to implement the Interstate Valley Creek Stabilization and Best Management Practices (BMP) project.
The project was coordinated with the timing of the River to River Greenway trail project, which is
planned to begin in May 2025. The purpose of the project is to replace degraded stormwater
infrastructure, provide additional stormwater treatment, and restore a wetland to aid in vegetation
management, reduce erosion, provide habitat, and restore wetland conditions that existed historically.
Ms. Spreiter reviewed a PowerPoint including:
Project Overview – A feasibility study was completed in 2023 to identify areas of streambank erosion
and potential treatment and infiltration areas in the watershed. The project includes stormwater
infrastructure repair, stabilizing three areas or reaches of the creek bed, installing two
filtration/infiltration basins, and installing a weir downstream of a wetland within Valley Park. The
project is funded by a Clean Water Grant, and is a coordinated partnership between the City, the
Lower Mississippi River WMO, and Dakota County.
A map showing the project area was provided for Commission review. A diagram showing the
infiltration basins was also shown. The locations for stabilization were also shown.
Commissioner McCaslin arrived at the meeting at 6:25 p.m.
Vice Chair Knosalla asked if construction will occur throughout the winter. Ms. Spreiter stated the
project officially may start as early as this week. There is some winter work that is slated to begin. Vice
Chair Knosalla asked if the residents in the area will be impacted by the storm sewer being
constructed. Ms. Spreiter stated the improvements, and construction will be on park property. There
are a few residents that will be close to the construction.
Student Representative Trudeau asked about the weir. Ms. Spreiter stated the purpose of the weir in
the channel which will create more wetland area upstream. This will allow for a volume reduction. The
spot with the severe erosion was indicated on the drawing.
Commissioner McCaslin stated is the plan to have two feet of standing water and Ms. Spreiter stated
the elevation would be two feet above where it is currently.
Commissioner Sheets asked how the wildlife will be affected that utilize the waterway and any
plantings. Ms. Spreiter stated it is designed to enhance wildlife. This will add more open water habitat.
The hope is to eliminate the reed canary grass.
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December 11, 2024 Mendota Heights Natural Resources Commission Page 4 of 7
Commissioner McCaslin asked if there is any stream evaluation data available. Ms. Spreiter stated
currently there is no monitoring data available.
The 2024_9_26 IV Creek Stabilization and Water Quality BMP Project Final Plans was provided for
Commission consideration.
3. Adopt Agenda
Motion to approve the agenda by Sheets, second by Fahnhorst.
Motion passed 4-0.
4. Approval of Minutes – August 8, 2024, Natural Resources Commission Meeting and October 16, 2024
Natural Resources Commission Work Session.
Motion to approve the minutes by Fahnhorst, second by McCaslin.
Motion passed 4-0.
a. Approve 2025 Meeting Schedule
Coordinator Spreiter reviewed the 2025 calendar for the Natural Resources Commission. Regular
Meetings will take place in the City Council Chambers. The Commission will meet in the Large
Conference Room for Work Sessions. The public is welcome to attend all meetings. All meetings will
begin at 6:00 p.m.
January 8 – Regular Meeting (No Media Coverage)
February 12 – Work Session
March 12 – Regular Meeting
April 9 – Work Session
May 14 – Work Session
June 11 – Regular Meeting
July 9 – Work Session
August 14 (Thursday) – Work Session
September 10 – Regular Meeting
October 8 – Work Session
November 13 (Thursday) – Work Session
December 10 – Regular Meeting
Motion to approve the 2025 Meeting Schedule by Sheets, second by McCaslin.
Motion passed 4-0.
Ms. Spreiter noted on January 8, 2025, there will be no media coverage.
5. Old Business
a. 2025 National Resources Commission Workplan
Coordinator Spreiter reviewed the Commission is asked to discuss the draft of its 2025 Work Plan and
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December 11, 2024 Mendota Heights Natural Resources Commission Page 5 of 7
accept the draft as is or with amendments.
The Commission uses an annual work plan to accomplish its goals, as well as aid in accountability,
resource allocation and proceeding through commission priorities. A work plan may consist of goals,
priorities, tasks, programs, or projects that the Commission would like to implement in 2025.
Resources, monetary cost, timeline, and benefits of each identified item should be considered. The five
goals of the Commission are:
1. Ordinance and Policy Development
2. Education and Outreach
3. Urban Forestry and Restoration
4. Strategic Planning
5. Sustainability
Ms. Spreiter reviewed the initiatives under each goal.
The Commission is asked to use this time to discuss the existing items in the draft, make edits to the
draft, or add additional items if it so wishes. The 2025 Work Plan should be completed and accepted by
the Commission at this meeting or its regular meeting in January. The 2025 Work Plan draft was
provided for Commission consideration.
Vice Chair Knosalla noted goal 1 and goal 5 have the same initiative listed “Explore deconstruction
policy for city-owned buildings and facilities”. Ms. Spreiter stated it was discussed that some of the
initiatives may fall between more than one committee. Vice Chair Knosalla suggested noting which
committee is the lead and which is the supporting committee.
Commissioner Fahnhorst suggesting discussing further when Chair Swank is present.
Commissioner Sheets asked which Committee would be the lead on this and Commissioner McCaslin
stated he is not sure the policy is needed prior to the ordinance.
Commissioner Fahnhorst suggested starting it in the Sustainability Committee rather than Ordinance
and Policy Development. Vice Chair Knosalla suggested removing it from Goal #1.
Commissioner Fahnhorst asked if policies are published formally. Ms. Spreiter stated the City Council
can take official action by passing a resolution to adopt the policy. It is different than an ordinance.
The consensus of the Commission was that Sustainability would lead the effort with Ordinance and
Policy collaborating.
Motion to adopt the 2025 Work Plan with revisions by Fahnhorst, second by McCaslin.
Motion passed 4-0.
b. 2024 Tree Canopy Program Recap
Coordinator Spreiter reviewed the Commission is asked to hear a presentation and summary of the
2024 Tree Canopy Program. The proposal of a residential and/or commercial shade tree program was
brought to the commission for discussion in 2023 and approved by the Commission in January of 2024.
The proposal of a residential and/or commercial shade tree program was brought to the Commission
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December 11, 2024 Mendota Heights Natural Resources Commission Page 6 of 7
for discussion in 2023 and approved by the Commission in January of 2024. The City entered into an
agreement with Tree Trust Landscaping, LLC to provide residents and commercial property owners
with a full-service tree purchasing and planting program in 2024. For the subsidized cost of $185 for
residents and non-profit property owners, and $259 for commercial property owners, accepted
applicants received a high-quality, 10-gallon tree or trees suited for local conditions and our changing
climate to be planted within their private property. Applicants were accepted on a first-come-first-
served basis with priority given to properties that lost a tree(s) due to Emerald Ash Borer, properties
located within an Environmental Justice Area (MPCA’s Environmental Justice Area), or those located
within a High Relative Heat Export area within Mendota Heights (Spring only). During the fall
application process, no priority was given due to the number of trees left for purchase.
The program included:
•A site consultation with City Staff on the best location for the new tree.
•Utility locate coordination prior to planting.
•Transportation of the tree and all planting materials provided by Tree Trust Landscaping
Services.
•Proper planting, mulching, and watering at the time of planting, provided by Tree Trust
Landscaping Services.
•A high-quality 10-gallon container tree, watering bag, tree protection and mulch to be placed
at the time of planting.
Options included:
•Blue Beech
•Hackberry
•Kentucky Coffee Tree var. Espresso
•River Birch
•Redbud (Minnesota Strain)
•Bi-color Oak
Participants were required to enter into a maintenance agreement with the City upon acceptance,
assuming responsibility for watering and all tree care after planting, including removal if needed, and
all costs associated with tree maintenance of the tree in the foreseeable future. Trees provided are
guaranteed for one year.
During the spring planting, 26 trees were ordered and planted through the program, with a one tree
maximum allowed per property address, and priority was given to those that qualified for one of the
three priority categories.
During the fall planting, 65 trees were ordered and planted. The priority categories were not
implemented, and the maximum number of trees per address was increased to two. The remaining
trees available (44) were planted in City parks as part of the City’s Emerald Ash Borer Bonding Grant
project. The cost of the program ($25,000) was paid through the City’s Tree City Fund. The Tree
Canopy Program will run through 2025.
Vice Chair Knosalla asked of the remaining trees was there a specific species that was not as popular.
She asked if reducing the price per tree would that encourage more interest in the program. Ms.
Spreiter stated the most popular were Red Bud.
Student Representative Trudeau asked if the City Tree Sale runs at the same time and Ms. Spreiter
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December 11, 2024 Mendota Heights Natural Resources Commission Page 7 of 7
stated orders for both are done at approximately the same timeframe. Student Representative
Trudeau suggested if there is extra inventory they could be made available in the tree sale. Ms.
Spreiter stated City Staff would need to run that tree sale.
Commissioner Sheets asked if the prioritization for the Spring should be done in the future or should
the prioritization be changed. Ms. Spreiter stated her initial thoughts was no prioritization with
additional outreach done.
Commissioner Fahnhorst stated he is in support of the tree program. For the full service option at $185
that is a great deal. He is supportive of keeping the price as is for the second year. The tree selections
are good options.
Vice Chair Knosalla suggested the two different sales be communicated at the beginning of the year.
Commissioner Sheets also suggested providing educational resource information on the species
available.
6. Staff Announcements
Ms. Spreiter stated the Commission had proposed creating a buckthorn kit. There is one kit available to
residents. There is a waiting list to use the kit. The kit will be offered throughout the winter. The items
included in the kits were described.
7. Commission Comments.
Ordinance and Policy Development Committee Report – Commissioner McCaslin stated they are
starting to look at Ordinances in other communities.
Education and Outreach Committee Report – Student Representative Trudeau stated they are
beginning planning for Spring and Earth & Arbor Day Week Events. They discussed the upcoming Oak
Award and increasing participation.
Urban Forestry and Restoration – Vice Chair Knosalla stated they will be meeting in January 2025.
Strategic Planning – Commissioner Sheets stated they continue exploring additional funding sources
for natural resources. They attended some programs with other cities.
Sustainability – Vice Chair Knosalla stated the Energy Action Plan was reviewed and approved by the
City Council. The Committee will meet to discuss implementation.
8.Discussion
Commissioner Fahnhorst noted his term with the Commission is ending and he has enjoyed working with
the Commissioners and it has been a great experience.
9.Adjourn
Motion to adjourn the meeting by McCaslin, second by Fahnhorst.
Motion passed 4-0.
Chair Swank adjourned the meeting at 7:10 p.m.
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6.a
Natural Resources Commission
Meeting Date: January 8, 2025
Agenda Item: Commissioner Resignation
Item Type: Action Item
Department: Natural Resources Contact: Krista Spreiter, Natural
Resources Coordinator
Action Request:
None. Information Only.
Background:
Natural Resources Commissioner Sean Fahnhorst has submitted his resignation to the Natural
Resources Commission. Commissioner Fahnhorst has served on the Commission since its
inception in 2022. Commissioner Fahnhorst's term expires January 31, 2025. Commissioner
Fahnhorst served on the Goal 1: Ordinance and Policy Development committee, and worked to
develop and recommend the newly adopted Urban Forest Preservation ordinance. Staff thanks
Commissioner Fahnhorst for his work and service on the Commission.
The City has began to advertise for the open commission seat. Once the City Council appoints
a new commissioner to the seat, that commissioner will serve a three-year term. The deadline
for applicants is 10am on January 3rd. Interviews with candidates will begin January 9th with an
anticipated appointment by the City Council at the February 4, 2025 City Council Meeting.
Fiscal and Resource Impact:
None.
Attachments:
None
Page 9 of 22
6.b
Natural Resources Commission
Meeting Date: January 8, 2025
Agenda Item: Annual Commissioner Orientation
Item Type: Presentation
Department: Natural Resources Contact: Krista Spreiter, Natural
Resources Coordinator
Action Request:
Information only.
Background:
All commissioners serving on a city commission for Mendota Heights are required to attend an
annual Commissioner Orientation facilitated by city staff. The orientation is intended to provide
information and guidance to commissioners regarding the city's governing structure and
framework, types and order of meetings, the role of commissioners, and other pertinent
information.
The Natural Resources Commission's charter is to advise the City Council on matters pertaining
to natural resources, sustainability, environmental and climate stewardship, and opportunities
for the advancement of those areas including recommending policies and initiatives that
enhance and preserve natural resources within Mendota Heights. If requested by the City
Council, the Commission will prepare and assess plans, policies, goals, and ordinances for the
acquisition, enhancement, or preservation of natural resources in the City. (Ordinance 572 -
Commission Charter)
Commissioner Orientation will be held the week of February 3rd. Commissioners are asked to
respond to staff with their availability.
Fiscal and Resource Impact:
None.
Attachments:
None
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7.a
Natural Resources Commission
Meeting Date: January 8, 2025
Agenda Item: Partners in Energy Update
Item Type: Presentation
Department: Natural Resources Contact: Krista Spreiter, Natural
Resources Coordinator
Action Request:
The Commission will hear an update on the Partners in Energy Program.
Background:
Through the Partners in Energy Program, the Energy Action Team has developed an Energy
Action Plan, which was presented to the City Council and approved at its regular meeting on
December 3, 2024.
The Energy Action Plan was developed by the Energy Action Team over the six-month
planning stage of the program. The team established three goals for Mendota Heights:
increasing energy efficiency, decreasing energy costs, and avoiding greenhouse gas emissions.
The program is now in the 18-month implementation stage in which the community is asked
to take action within four focus areas to achieve its goals:
•Residential Energy Efficiency
•Business & Municipal Energy Efficiency
•Renewable Energy
•Beneficial Electrification
The attached Memorandum of Understanding outlines and recognizes the partnership
between Mendota Heights and Xcel Energy, and how the City will continue to work with Xcel
Energy through the Partners in Energy program to implement the approved Energy Action
Plan. The term of this joint effort as outlined in the memorandum begins January 1, 2025, and
will be terminated June 30, 2026.
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Fiscal and Resource Impact:
None at this time.
Attachments:
1.MOU_Partners in Energy - Mendota Heights Implementation MOU DRAFT 12 23 24
Page 12 of 22
Memorandum of Understanding
Phase 2 – Plan Implementation
Krista Spreiter
Mendota Heights
1101 Victoria Curve
Mendota Heights, MN 55118
The intent of this Memorandum of Understanding is to recognize the achievement of the City of
Mendota Heights in developing an Energy Action Plan. Northern States Power Company doing
business as Xcel Energy, through its Partners in Energy offering, has supported the
development of this Energy Action Plan. This document outlines how Mendota Heights and Xcel
Energy will continue to work together to implement this Energy Action Plan. The term of this
joint support, as defined in this document, will extend from January 1, 2025 through June 30,
2026.
Xcel Energy will support Mendota Heights in achieving the goals of its Energy Action
Plan in the following ways:
Residential Energy Efficiency
1.Use existing template and graphics to spearhead outreach campaign to promote
residential energy efficiency programs, rebate information, and approved contractor
a.Create verbiage and graphics to promote energy efficiency.
b.Create energy efficiency content for City website
c.Provide collateral to promote refrigerator recycling program.
d.Provide collateral to promote energy assessments as a first step to increasing
energy efficiency.
2.Support city staff finding local energy efficiency projects and create newsletters, flyers,
and social media content (“collateral”) to share about them.
a.Provide collateral with City input to support City finding energy efficiency projects
to showcase.
3.Research and share with City funding opportunities for energy efficiency and renewable
energy projects.
a.Provide webinars and in-person event content and support regarding on funding
opportunities for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects.
b.Research federal, state and other grant and loan opportunities for these projects
and share with City.
Support funded by Xcel Energy for this strategy is not to exceed 58 hours. These hours will
include those provided through the Partners in Energy team from Center for Energy and
Environment and do not include support provided by Xcel Energy internal program staff.
Business & Municipal Energy Efficiency
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XCEL ENERGY PARTNERS IN ENERGY
Memorandum of Understanding
Implementation Phase
4.Support city staff finding local business energy efficiency projects and create
newsletters, flyers, and social media content (“collateral”) to share about them.
a.Create collateral to support city staff in finding local business energy efficiency
projects.
b.Use stories of business energy efficiency and renewable project wins to create
collateral for business outreach.
5.With City support, create collateral that highlights energy action by businesses.
a.Provide talking points and flyers to support City representatives in tabling at
events attended by businesses to share contact information and information
about the Energy Action Plan.
b.Support City in identifying businesses with existing sustainability policies.
6.Provide guidance and options for Mendota Heights to potentially implement energy
efficiency measures in its facilities.
a.Support City exploring LED light retrofits.
b.Provide program and other information to support the City considering energy
audits for City buildings.
7.Provide collateral for business outreach.
a.Provide collateral for outreach to businesses with which City already has existing
relationships.
Support funded by Xcel Energy for this strategy is not to exceed 52 hours. These hours will
include those provided through the Partners in Energy team Center for Energy and Environment
and do not include support provided by Xcel Energy internal program staff.
Renewable Energy
8.Create newsletters, social media, flyers, and graphics (“collateral”) to highlight
Mendota Heights’ existing solar gardens.
a.Create newsletters, social media, flyers, and graphics (“collateral”) for City
to share in their channels.
b.Create collateral that highlights both on- and off-site solar options for
residents and businesses.
9.Research and share solar project funding opportunities with City
a.Research solar installers active in Mendota Heights.
b.Research solar project funding opportunities and create collateral for
outreach campaign.
c.Support City in researching sites in Mendota Heights suitable for solar
installation.
10. Create collateral that highlights solar success stories in City.
a.Create call for citizen-submitted content on solar projects in City.
Support funded by Xcel Energy for this strategy is not to exceed 38 hours. These hours will
include those provided through the Partners in Energy team from Center for Energy and
Environment and do not include support provided by Xcel Energy internal program staff.
Beneficial Electrification
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XCEL ENERGY PARTNERS IN ENERGY
Memorandum of Understanding
Implementation Phase
11.Create newsletters, social media, flyers, and graphics to inform residents and
businesses about opportunities for beneficial electrification.
a.Create collateral promoting electric lawn care as a quick-win electrification
measure.
b.Provide talking points and materials for City to connect with HOAs and
neighborhood groups to share resources on beneficial electrification.
c.Provide accessible collateral on beneficial electrification focused on businesses.
12.Research funding opportunities for beneficial electrification projects for residents,
businesses, and Municipal buildings.
a.Research electrification funding opportunities.
b.Host webinars on electrification funding opportunities.
c.Incorporate information from research into collateral for outreach.
13.Share options for electrification with Mendota Heights.
a.Share experience with EV chargers.
b.Share programs for municipal fleet electrification.
14.Help facilitate peer-to-peer learning from residents who have already implemented
electrification measures (EVs, heat pumps, etc.).
a.Provide social media language to identify residents and businesses who have
already installed electrification measures.
b.Facilitate sharing these community members’ experiences with electrification in
outreach campaigns.
c.Provide guidance for hosting a workshop for these community members to share
their experiences.
d.Provide recruitment language to find residents who have already installed
beneficial electrification measures.
Support funded by Xcel Energy for this strategy is not to exceed 59 hours. These hours will
include those provided through the Partners in Energy team from Center for Energy and
Environment and do not include support provided by Xcel Energy internal program staff.
Project Management and Reimbursed Expenses
•Provide presentation content outlining Partners in Energy process, identified focus areas
and goals, and benefits to community to be presented to City Council as part of update
process
•Facilitate regular check-in meetings, track and report energy impacts and activities (process
annual data from Xcel Energy), and help coordinate implementation kick-off activities
•Provide up to $2,450 for reimbursed expenses related to printing and distribution of co-
branded marketing materials, venue fees, food, and other related needs associated with
outreach and education. Xcel Energy funding will not be provided for the purchase of alcohol
Support funded by Xcel Energy for project management is not to exceed 70 hours. These hours
will include those provided through the Partners in Energy team from Center for Energy and
Environment) and do not include support provided by Xcel Energy internal program staff.
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XCEL ENERGY PARTNERS IN ENERGY
Memorandum of Understanding
Implementation Phase
The City of Mendota Heights commits to supporting the Energy Action Plan to the best of
its ability by:
•Achieving the energy savings impacts outlined in the energy action plan and shown in the
table below:
Community Name Conservation Goals
Electricity
Savings
(in kWh)
Natural Gas
Savings
(in therms)
Baseline Historic Energy Savings 2,500,000 140,000
Incremental Plan Energy Savings
(1/1/2025 – 6/30/26)
620,000 60,000
Total Plan Energy Savings
(baseline + plan energy savings)
3,117,000 200,000
•Performing the coordination, tracking, and outreach duties as outlined in the Energy Action
Plan that include but are not limited to the following:
Residential Energy Efficiency
1.Provide instructions and copy for outreach campaign, review collateral, and
share campaign through City channels.
a.Review collateral and share to City social media, neighborhood groups,
and Mendota Heights Natural Resources commission
b.Review energy efficiency content for City website, tailor to Mendota
Heights, and post on website.
c.Table at relevant Mendota Heights events
d.Share collateral to promote refrigerator recycling program.
e.Share collateral to promote energy assessments as a first step to
increasing energy efficiency.
2.Search for local residential energy efficiency projects and circulate collateral
about them.
a.Circulate collateral through City channels to find energy efficiency projects
in the community to showcase.
b.Connect with neighborhood groups to find successful residential energy
efficiency projects.
3.Research funding opportunities for residential energy efficiency and renewable
energy projects.
a.Attend Partners in Energy and other webinars to find out about funding
opportunities for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects.
b.Research federal, state and other grant and loan opportunities for these
projects.
Business & Municipal Energy Efficiency
4.Search for local business energy efficiency projects and circulate collateral about
them.
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XCEL ENERGY PARTNERS IN ENERGY
Memorandum of Understanding
Implementation Phase
a.Circulate call for business-submitted content detailing energy efficiency
and renewable energy projects through City channels.
b.Review collateral from Partners in Energy and circulate it to reach out to
businesses.
5.Connect with local businesses to promote energy efficiency wins to prospective
businesses.
a.Table at relevant City events with a business presence. Collect contact
information and share information about the Energy Action Plan
b.Use City information to identify businesses with existing sustainability
practices.
6.Research energy efficiency practices for City facilities and review options
provided by Partners in Energy.
a.Support City facilities team in exploring LED light retrofit.
b.Consider energy audits for City buildings.
7.Send collateral to reach out to businesses through City channels.
a.Identify businesses City already has relationship with and reach out to
them with Partners in Energy collateral.
Renewable Energy
8.Share collateral provided by Partners in Energy through City channels to
highlight City solar gardens.
a.Review collateral from Partners in energy and circulate it in City channels.
b.Circulate collateral that highlights both on- and off-site solar options for
residents and businesses.
9.Research solar project funding opportunities.
a.Research solar installers in Mendota Heights
b.Research solar project funding opportunities and circulate collateral for
outreach campaign.
c.Research sites in City that would be suitable for solar installation.
10. Share details of solar success stories so Partners in Energy can create collateral.
Share collateral in City communication channels.
a.Circulate call for citizen-submitted content on solar projects in City.
Beneficial Electrification
11. Review and circulate newsletters, social media, flyers, and graphics to inform
residents and businesses about opportunities for beneficial electrification.
a.Circulate collateral promoting electric lawn care as a quick-win
electrification measure
b.Connect with neighborhood groups and HOAs to educate and share
resources about beneficial electrification.
c.Share collateral created by Partners in Energy through City channels and
with businesses.
12. Research funding opportunities for beneficial electrification projects for residents,
businesses, and Municipal buildings an evaluate their suitability in Mendota
Heights
a.Research electrification funding opportunities.
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6
XCEL ENERGY PARTNERS IN ENERGY
Memorandum of Understanding
Implementation Phase
b.Attend webinars and other resource-sharing opportunities.
c.Circulate information and collateral into collateral for outreach.
13. Research beneficial electrification practices and assess their feasibility for
incorporating into City protocols.
a.Explore adding EV chargers to municipal buildings and/or public spaces.
b.Evaluate City fleet for conversion to EVs.
c.Consider updating City permitting process and development review to
include information on electrification options.
d.Explore group buy of electrification infrastructure.
14. Facilitate peer-to-peer learning from residents who have already implemented
beneficial electrification measures (EVs, heat pumps, etc.).
a.Use City social media to identify residents and businesses who have
already installed electrification measures.
b.Facilitate sharing these community members’ experiences with
electrification in outreach campaigns.
c.Consider hosting a workshop for these community members to share their
experiences.
d.Recruit residents who have already installed electrification measure.
Project Management
•Participate in coordination and tracking of scheduled check-ins, activities, and events
•Provide Xcel Energy an opportunity to review marketing materials to assure accuracy when
they incorporate the Xcel Energy logo or reference any of Xcel Energy’s products or
services
•Share the plan document, supporting work documents, collateral, and implementation
results from the Energy Action Plan with the public. The experience, successes, and lessons
learned from this community will inform others looking at similar or expanded initiatives
•Share progress on upcoming sustainability planning as it relates to activities outlined in the
Energy Action Plan
•Approval to share your community’s aggregated Xcel Energy data (processed through
Partners in Energy) with the Partners in Energy Network to be used primarily as a
benchmark to other communities
Single Points of Contact
All communications pertaining to this agreement shall be directed to Krista Spreiter on behalf of
Mendota Heights and Sofia Troutman on behalf of Xcel Energy.
Legal Applicability and Waiver
This is a voluntary agreement and not intended to be legally binding for either party. This
Memorandum of Understanding has no impact, nor does it alter or modify any existing
Franchise Agreement or other existing agreements between Xcel Energy and Mendota Heights.
Parties agree that this Memorandum of Understanding is to memorialize the intent of the Parties
regarding Partners in Energy but does not create a legal agreement between the Parties. It is
agreed by the Parties that nothing in this Memorandum of Understanding will be deemed or
construed as creating a joint venture, trust, partnership, or any other legal relationship among
the Parties. This Memorandum of Understanding is for the benefit of the Parties and does not
3age of
7
XCEL ENERGY PARTNERS IN ENERGY
Memorandum of Understanding
Implementation Phase
create third party rights. Nothing in this Memorandum of Understanding constitutes a waiver of
Mendota Heights’ ordinances, Mendota Heights’ regulatory jurisdiction, or Minnesota’s utility
regulatory jurisdiction.
Xcel Energy is excited about this opportunity to support Mendota Heights in advancing its goals.
The resources outlined above and provided through Partners in Energy are provided as a part
of our commitment to the communities we serve and Xcel Energy’s support of energy efficiency
and renewable energy as important resources to meet your future energy needs.
For City of Mendota Heights:
Signature:
___________________________________
Name:
___________________________________
Title:
___________________________________
Date:
___________________________________
For Xcel Energy:
Signature:
_________________________________
Name:
_________________________________
Title:
_________________________________
Date:
__________________________________
3age 19 of 2
7.b
Natural Resources Commission
Meeting Date: January 8, 2025
Agenda Item: 2025 Workplan Review
Item Type: Presentation
Department: Natural Resources Contact: Krista Spreiter, Natural
Resources Coordinator
Action Request:
The Commission will hear a review of Q1 Initiatives of the 2025 Workplan.
Background:
The Commission uses an annual work plan to accomplish its goals, as well as aid in
accountability, resource allocation and proceed through commission priorities. A work plan
may consist of goals, priorities, tasks, programs, or projects that the Commission would like to
implement throughout the year.
Quarter one of the Workplan begins January 2nd and ends March 31st. Below are the
corresponding initiatives for Quarter one for each corresponding goal.
Goal 1: Ordinance and Policy Development
•Draft a Shoreland Ordinance for recommendation of approval by City Council
(continues through Q4)
Goal 2: Education and Outreach
•Create and hold a community engagement event
•Collaborate with the Sustainability Committee to implement PiE Energy Action Plan
(continues through Q4)
•Develop educational topics and event schedule for the Earth and Arbor Day Celebration
(continues through Q2)
3DJH•0•RI•2
Goal 3: Urban Forestry and Restoration (none for Q1)
Goal 4: Strategic Planning
•Identify and explore funding sources for Natural Resources (continues through Q4)
•Explore development of a Natural Resources Management Plan for Valley Park
(continues through Q2)
Goal 5: Sustainability
•Implement Partners in Energy Energy Action Plan (continues through Q4)
Fiscal and Resource Impact:
None at this time.
Attachments:
1.2025 Work Plan
3DJH•1•RI•2
Goal Initiative Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
Goal 1: Ordinance and Policy
Development Draft a Shoreland Ordinance for recommendation of approval by City Council X X X X
Goal 1: Ordinance and Policy
Development Review Planning Review Checklists to offer natural resources considerations X X
Goal 1: Ordinance and Policy
Development Explore deconstruction policy for city-owned buidlings and facilities X X
Goal 2: Education and Outreach Create and hold a community engagement event X
Goal 2: Education and Outreach Collaborate with Sustainability Committee to implement Partners in Energy Action Plan X X X X
Goal 2: Education and Outreach Develop educational topics and event schedule for Earth and Arbor Day Celebration X X
Goal 2: Education and Outreach Host site tour of natural resources site X X
Goal 3: Urban Forestry and
Restoration Complete a turf-to-native vegetation conversion project within a city park X X
Goal 3: Urban Forestry and
Restoration Host tree planting event X
Goal 3: Urban Forestry and
Restoration Support implementation of EAB Bonding Grant X X
Goal 4: Strategic Planning Identify and explore funding sources for Natural Resources X X X X
Goal 4: Strategic Planning Explore development of a Natural Resources Management Plan for Valley Park X X
Goal 5: Sustainability Implement Partners in Energy Action Plan X X X X
Goal 5: Sustainability Explore deconstruction policy for city-owned buidlings and facilities X X
Goal 5: Sustainability Host residential energy saving education event X X
TimelineNatural Resources Commission Work Plan 2025
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