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   City of Burnsville  


Background Information

County:   Dakota
Population:   60,306
GreenStep City category:   A

Full-time equivalent city staff (approx.):   220

Participating township(s) / school district(s):


GreenStep City resolution:   Click here to view the file.
GreenStep City registration date:   04/24/2012
GreenStep City status and date:   STEP 2 (06/10/2012)

GreenStep Coordinator

Sue Bast
City staff
basts@ci.burnsville.mn.us
952-895-4524

City web page relating to sustainability/GreenStep activities:
http://www.ci.burnsville.mn.us/index.aspx?nid


Best Practice Actions Underway and Completed

Completed actions are denoted by stars. Mouse over a star for its definition.

Buildings and Lighting   Buildings and Lighting

Efficient Existing Public Buildings
{ BP no. 1 }

Enter complete information into the B3 Building Editor for each city-owned building. Begin routinely entering current, consecutive monthly energy use data. Identify a person responsible for this ongoing data entry. For each building, also enter 12 consecutive months of historical energy use data immediately prior to the start of current data. Annually, post a an updated print screen of the B3 Organization Summary Tab (see Implementation Tools for instructions) to the GreenStep Cities website by May 1st.
Complete 1 Star criterion, except enter 24 consecutive months of historical data and then validate the data entries by looking at patterns/trends and checking inconsistent data to determine accuracy, correct inaccurate entries, and identify potential opportunities for energy savings.
Complete 1 and 2 Star criteria. In addition, conduct ongoing, periodic review of B3 data to validate the data entries, look for indications of energy-related operations and maintenance issues, and identify poorer performing buildings. Annually by May 1st, post a summary of next steps based on this review and analysis and identify a person responsible for conducting it.
Action 1: Enter baseline information into the Minnesota B3 Benchmarking database and routinely enter monthly energy use data from all city-owned buildings.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Complete no/low-cost O&M changes ("turn it off, turn it down, tune it up") in one poorer-performing building, then summarize the actions taken, such as fine-tuning HVAC systems or installing weatherstripping, light sensors, low-flow water fixtures. Update the B3 Building Editor, as needed, and change the Baseline Time Period in the Baseline tab for that building so it shows the 12-month period immediately prior to implementing the changes. (See Implementation Tools for ideas, definitions, and database/reporting instructions.)
Complete 1 Star criterion for two buildings. Post the Print Screen of the Baseline tab for one of the buildings with the Energy gauge showing at least a 5% decrease in energy use compared to the baseline period [12 months immediately prior to implementing changes]. Continue fine-tuning O&M procedures and monitoring energy usage to identify opportunities for additional savings.
Complete 1 and 2 Star criteria for two buildings. Annually by May 1st, post the Print Screen of the Baseline tab for each building with the Energy gauge showing at least a 10% decrease in energy use compared to the baseline period [12 months immediately prior to implementing changes].
Action 2: Make no/low cost facility operations & maintenance changes to city-owned/school buildings to reduce energy costs.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Complete retrocommissioning and/or retrofitting work on a building, then summarize the actions taken. Update the B3 Building Editor, as needed, and change the Baseline Time Period in the Baseline tab for that building so it shows the 12-month period immediately prior to implementing the changes. (See Implementation Tools for ideas, definitions, and database/reporting instructions.)
Complete 1 Star criterion for two buildings. Use B3 to track reductions in energy usage after the work is completed. Post a Print Screen of the Baseline tab for one building showing the actual reduction in energy usage for a full year following completion of the retrocommissioning or retrofit work compared to the baseline period [12 months immediately prior to implementing changes].
Complete 1 and 2 Star criteria for two buildings. In addition, implement an internal program or use an external program/vendor that provides funding/incentives for ongoing reductions in energy use by city-owned buildings (e.g. internal loan fund, shared savings, pay for performance, etc.) Describe the program and identify a person responsible for administering it. Report on results of the program annually by May 1st.
Action 3: Invest in energy efficiency opportunities through recommissioning/retrofitting city-owned/school buildings or by using the Guaranteed Energy Savings Program.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Install a building management system for city buildings for control via office computer or home laptop; implement power management of computers and other information technology energy saving strategies. Report actions taken and results achieved.
Engage employees of the city in efforts to reduce energy use by: turning off, unplugging, enabling power management, or setting timers on equipment, lights and chargers; minimizing personal appliances in the office; using efficient models of (and substitutes for) necessary personal appliances; using task lights instead of ceiling fixtures; and optimizing active use of windows, doors and interior shading devices to conserve energy. Report actions taken and results achieved.
Complete 1 and 2 Star criteria.
Action 4: Implement information technology efforts and city employee engagement to reduce plug loads and building energy use.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Geothermal systems should meet a minimum coefficient of performance of 3.3 for closed loop and 3.6 for open loop systems.
Heat a building using a waste heat stream; create a mini-district energy system where a single geothermal or CHP system serves multiple buildings.
Integrate solar thermal production with a geothermal, CHP, or similar distributed energy generation.
Action 7: Install in at least one city-owned/school building at least one of the following energy efficiency measures:     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

b. A distributed fossil fuel energy technology for full-time energy generation: micro-turbine, fuel cell, reciprocating engine.

a. A ground-source, closed loop geothermal system.


Efficient Existing Private Buildings
{ BP no. 2 }

City staff informs applicants of green building practices and resources.
All applicants receive green building information and links to web resources, as well as references to local resources such as certified green builders.
Green building information offered to all applicants along with specific suggestions tailored to applications.
Action 2: Integrate green building best practices information and assistance into the building permit process.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Action 5: Conserve drinking/groundwater resources by adopting a watering ordinance, water-wise landscaping ordinance/guidance, or a WaterSense purchasing program.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Efficient Outdoor Lighting and Signals
{ BP no. 4 }

Summarize city policy or practice for fixtures on city-owned buildings.
Summarize policies for fixtures adopted by the city, school board and other governmental units within the city.
Requirements (within State code) for private buildings, OR installation on public facilities of photosensors on all outdoor light fixtures, and the installation of timers with seasonal schedules to control when lights turn on and off.
Action 1: Require energy efficient, Dark-Sky compliant new or replacement outdoor lighting fixtures on city-owned/private buildings and facilities.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Report synchronized traffic signals, flashing yellow left turn arrow signals, installation of detectors in at least 10% of city signals (operated under traffic actuated/responsive mode). Report roundabouts under best practice action 11.6
Work with the county/MnDOT to interconnect traffic signals and coordinate them in one corridor.
Work with the county/MnDOT to interconnect/coordinate among traffic signals and synchronize them along several corridors.
Action 4: Coordinate traffic signals and/or optimize signal timing so as minimize car idling at intersections yet maintain safe and publicly acceptable vehicle speeds.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Use LED/solar-powered lighting for at least one flashing sign, for example, warning flashers and wayfinding/signage lighting.
Install PV-powered or LED lighting as a pilot in a street, parking lot or park project. Examples include seasonally used park lighting (ice rinks, lighting in flood-prone areas, etc.).
Install routinely, as matter of policy, LED or solar powered lighting in street, parking lot or park projects.
Action 5: Use LED/solar-powered lighting for a flashing sign or in a street, parking lot or park project.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Replace 1/3 of city's existing traffic signals.
Replace 2/3 of city's existing traffic signals.
Replace 100% of city's existing traffic signals.
Action 8: Replace the city's existing traffic signals with energy efficient LED or equivalent lighting technologies.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Building Reuse
{ BP no. 5 }

Adopt design standards that address the downtown core and encourage compatible infill development.
Standards facilitate the evolution of strip/large format commercial areas into more livable/walkable neighborhoods with a mix of land use and including gathering places.
Limit annexations or infrastructure extensions until infill and redevelopment goals are met.
Action 5: Adopt development and design standards that facilitate infill and redevelopment.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Land Use   Land Use

Comprehensive Plan and Implementation
{ BP no. 6 }

Adopt a comprehensive plan that is less than ten years old (required for Category A cities) OR, Category B and C cities may simply adopt a land use plan that was adopted by a regional entity or the county less than 15 years ago OR they may adopt a city vision that looks at least 20 years into the future.
Include in your plan a sustainability section/chapter, or integrate sustainability goals and strategies into all chapters of your comprehensive plan. Report climate protection or energy independence goals and objectives under action 6.5
Adopt a development goal that new/infill projects generate enough tax revenue to pay for the related public infrastructure maintenance/replacement over multiple life cycles; reference a capital improvement plan that catalogues public system maintenance obligations by date and cost.
Action 1: Adopt/have an adopted comprehensive plan OR, Category B and C cities may simply adopt a land use plan that was adopted by a regional entity or the county.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Document where in the zoning code or development regulation the comprehensive plan is referenced as a foundational document or that the purpose of the code is to implement the comprehensive plan.
Comprehensive plan referenced in all land use and development ordinances and regulations in addition to zoning code ordinances.
Individual ordinances or ordinance sections should be introduced with a "Purposes" section that includes language such as the following: "The XXX regulations specifically implement the following goals from the Comprehensive Plan: "
Action 2: Demonstrate that regulatory ordinances comply with the comprehensive plan including but not limited to having the zoning ordinance explicitly reference the comprehensive plan as the foundational document for decision making.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Include plan requirements (in a comp plan or another planning document) on coordinated action with surrounding or overlapping jurisdictions for 6 of the 9 issues: land use, watershed/groundwater impacts, transportation, sewer and water, economic development, housing and foreclosures, police, fire, health.
Convene discussions or enter into agreements (joint service or others) with surrounding communities on at least 3 of these issues.
Jointly invest in infrastructure to avoid duplication or improve performance.
Action 3: Include requirements in comprehensive and/or other plans for intergovernmental coordination addressing land use and watershed impacts, infrastructure, economic development and city/regional services.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


For cities adjacent to undeveloped land, establish a growth area with staging criteria that reflects projected population growth (projected no more than ten years in the future) and, if applicable, is subject to an orderly annexation agreement and planned extension of municipal services. OR, conduct a natural resource inventory (NRI) and incorporate the results into your comprehensive plan or long-term city vision.
Prioritize the NRI results through a natural resource assessment (NRA) involving the public so as to minimize the fragmentation and development of agricultural, forest, wildlife, and high quality open space lands in and around the city.
Identify priority natural resource protection areas in the comp plan and recommend startegies for integrating protection into the development process.
Action 4: Include ecologic provisions in the comprehensive plan that explicitly aim to minimize open space fragmentation and/or establish a growth area with expansion criteria.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Specify numeric targets (reductions in energy usage, GHG emissions) and target dates for at least city operations.
Address climate protection in the private sector by, for example, establishing policies with numerical targets to reduce vehicle miles traveled, or setting a percentage renewable energy generation target for the entire city, such as a "25 by 25" goal (generating 25% of a city's electricity, heating and/or transportation fuels from renewable resources by 2025).
Adopt a more agressive goal, such as the Northfield, MN proposal to go "carbon-free by (20)33."
Action 5: Adopt climate protection/adaptation or energy independence goals and objectives in the comprehensive plan or in a separate policy document, and link these goals to direct implementation recommendations.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Efficient City Growth
{ BP no. 7 }

One 7-unit single-family zoning district and one 15-unit multi-family zoning district. Multi-family housing includes attached housing, apartments and condos.
A mixed use zoning district that sets a minimum net density for single family at 7 units per acre and minimum gross density for multi-family at 15 units per acre.
A minimum residential gross density of 20 units/acre when adjacent to a permanent transit node or pedestrian-oriented commercial retail district.
Action 1: Limit barriers to higher density housing by including in the city zoning ordinance and zoning map:     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

a. Neighborhood single-family density at seven units per net acre or greater.

b. Multi-family housing at a gross density of at least 15 units per acre adjacent to a commercial zoning district or transit node.


Use a process/ordinance (planned unit development or other) that allows increased density and approves development on substandard lots through flexible frontage and lot sizes; create a density bonus in one residential or commercial zoning district; allow accessory dwelling units in one single-family zoning district or overlay area.
Have a density bonus in multiple areas in the city; allow accessory dwelling units and/or co-housing developments in multiple single-family districts.
Create an additional density bonus linked to a transfer of development rights program that protects agricultural or natural resource land on the fringe of the urban area. Tie ADUs explicity into a plan for increasing affordable housing and/or reducing homelessness.
Action 2: Encourage higher density housing through at least two of the following strategies:     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

a. Incorporate a flexible lot size/frontage requirement for infill development.

b. Use density and floor area ratio (FAR) bonuses in selected residential zoning districts.

c. Tie a regulatory standard to comprehensive plan language defining compact city expansion zones that limit low-density development.

d. Allowing accessory dwelling units or co-housing by right in selected zoning districts.


Document the existence of a district meeting the FAR standard and/or zero-lot line.
Achieve 1 Star rating AND locate the higher intensity district near higher density housing, assuming the allowed commercial land uses are compatible.
Require pedestrian connections or permanent transit infrastructure between the higher intensity commercial district and residential housing.
Action 3: Encourage a higher intensity of commercial land uses through at least one of the following strategies:     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

a. Include in the city zoning ordinance and zoning map a commercial district with reduced lot sizes and zero-lot-line setbacks, or a FAR minimum between .75 and 1.

b. Set targets for the minimum number of employees/acre in different commercial zones.


Offer tax-increment financing, land write-downs or other loan/grant tools.
Offer a building permit fee discount or expedited permit review.
Offer at least one tool for life-cycle housing.
Action 4: Provide incentives for infill projects, or for life-cycle housing at or near job or retail centers, or for achieving an average net residential density of seven units per acre.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Mixed Uses
{ BP no. 8 }

Explain which attributes are met.
Parking spaces are significantly below the parking standard due to employees and visitors being able to access the location without always using a car.
A public school is located along a public transit line and provides incentives (such as discounted bus passes) for students to use the line.
Action 2: Locate or lease a school, city building or other government facility that has at least two of these attributes:     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

a. Adjacent to an existing employment or residential center.

b. Designed to facilitate and encourage access by walking and biking.

c. Accessible by regular transit service.


Ordinance allows mixed uses.
Ordinance requires residential-only PUDs to be adjacent to commercial development or to be served by frequent transit.
Ordinance requires a mix of uses.
Action 3: Modify a planned unit development - PUD - ordinance to emphasize mixed use development or to limit residential PUDs to areas adjacent to commercial development.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Describe to what degree the district used the Minnesota Model Ordinances for Sustainable Development.
Create a downtown overlay district.
Allow mixed use of office, retail, educational, civic, and residential units all located within the same building.
Action 5: Have a downtown zoning district that allows residential and compatible commercial development.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Use form-based codes in a downtown or historic district.
Use form-based codes in at least one corridor. Specify build-to lines vs. setbacks.
In residential and downtown/commercial sections, use a 3 to 6 ratio of building widths to heights (higher for residential, lower for commercial) to best create a sense of place.
Action 6: Incorporate form-based zoning approaches into the zoning code, in those areas where a diverse mix of uses is desired.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Two or more uses in multi-story buildings guided in the comp plan with overall goals or design guidelines.
Adopt incentives (density bonus, development assistance) for vertical mixed use development such as housing above commercial in the downtown core.
An incentive and/or requirement for inclusionary (affordable) housing in at least one development.
Action 7: Create incentives for vertical mixed-use development in appropriate locations (downtown, commercial districts near colleges or universities, historic commercial districts).     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Efficient Highway-Oriented Development
{ BP no. 9 }

Work with community members in establishing design goals or designs standards, publish the standards, and ensure that the standards are provided to everyone proposing development in the corridor.
Adopt an overlay district; in the public process to set design standards, use visual preference survey tools to develop both goals and designs.
Require or provide incentives (design assistance, permit fee reductions, etc) for new development and redevelopment to adhere to the goals and designs.
Action 1: Establish design goals for at least one highway corridor.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Establish regular or as-needed meetings to include local chambers of commerce and local governmental units.
Adopt a joint powers agreement or the like that formalizes regional economic development/land use planning.
Document regional estimated needs and staging criteria. Report adopted adequate public facilities ordinances under action 9.4
Action 2: Participate in regional economic development planning with representatives from surrounding townships, cities, the county and business interests to:     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

a. Estimate commercial/industrial needs among all jurisdictions.

b. Jointly implement recommendations to stage highway commercial development in order to avoid overbuilding and expensive low-density development.


Adopt an access management overlay district or access management standards for highways coming into the city.
Achieve 1 Star rating AND define highway commercial zoning districts in clusters rather than continuous strips.
Include conservation buffer requirements and site residential areas and vulnerable populations more than 650 feet from a major road (average annual daily traffic count over 40,000).
Action 3: Adopt transportation infrastructure design standards that protect highway, economic and ecologic functions of the corridor through clustering of development and incorporating access management standards.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Adopt zoning language that defines highway-dependent land uses and limits the type of commercial development to highway-dependent commercial/industrial, steering business that can rely on bike/walk/transit acceess to downtown and mixed use retail nodes.
Achieve 1 Star rating AND define other commercial zoning districts to allow non-transportation dependent uses to complement the Highway Commercial district.
Achieve 1 Star rating AND adopt an adequate public facilities ordinance that stages highway commercial development concurrently with infrastructure and residential or transit expansion.
Action 4: Adopt a highway commercial zoning district that permits only transportation-dependent land uses.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Conservation Design
{ BP no. 10 }

Complete an NRI or NRA and adopt ordinance language that utilizes the findings in the inventory/assessment. Report individual tree replacement ordinances in best practice action 16.5
Create an incentive for conservation design in your zoning or subdivision ordinance, in which at least 50% of developable land is permanently protected, OR create a conservation design district that requires the use of conservation design practices, including permanent protection of high quality open space.
Create city-wide protections for natural systems/resources, such as mandatory natural resource design standards for priority natural resource and open space areas, or for rezonings of agricultural or other undeveloped land, require a finding of fact that undeveloped residential land in the city is insufficient to meet market demand.
Action 1: Conduct a Natural Resource Inventory or Assessment (NRI or NRA); incorporate protection of priority natural systems or resources through the subdivision or development process.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Adopt woodland BMPs as performance standards within development regulation, protecting wooded areas during the development process (see Conserving Wooded Areas in Implementation Tools). This action is focused at the subdivision level and protection of tree stands (consistent with best practice action 6.4). Tree preservation ordinances should be reported under BP action 16.5
Identify high-value woodland areas within the community and adopt performance standards that maintain the natural system integrity of the woodland stands, supporting comprehensive plan action 6.4
Conduct an MLCCS natural resource inventory (consistent with action 1 of this best practice) and write natural resource design standards that protect woodland areas at the subdivision level, ensuring green corridor connections between individual stands or natural resources of different types.
Action 3: For cities within metropolitan areas, incorporate woodland best management practices addressing protection of wooded areas into zoning or development review.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Transportation   Transportation

Complete Green Streets
{ BP no. 11 }

A city council resolution to develop a policy/standards governing city-owned streets, or comp/area plan direction, that expresses the city's intent to facilitate multi-modal transportation (but not all modes on all roads).
A complete green streets policy and implementation criteria, which addresses synergistic improvements to street trees and stormwater management.
Adopt a Living Street policy; modify street design standards/practices according to policy, addressing multimodal transportation, trees and stormwater; possible additional elements include align new streets to give buildings energy-efficient passive solar orientations; use a sustainable infrastructure tool.
Action 1: Adopt a complete streets policy that also addresses street trees and stormwater.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Action 3: Document inclusion/installation of green infrastructure elements as well as grey infrastructure elements in at least one complete streets reconstruction project.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Make functional/recreational walking/biking possible between at least one park/open area and city streets. Report remedies for gaps within your city's system of parks, off-road trails and open spaces under best practice action 18.1.
Add a walking/bike trail that significantly improves access between two areas without a full network of streets. For example, connecting cul-de-sacs within a curvilinear housing development with very long "blocks."
Add a walking/biking trail that connects your city to a key destination/area/trail outside the city.
Action 5: Identify and remedy street-trail gaps between city streets and offroad trails/bike trails to better facilitate walking and biking.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Measures such as streetscaping, bump-outs, raised cross walks, intersection markings, medians and narrower lane widths.
Measures such as roundabouts, and road diets where 3 lanes replace 4 lanes of a road with under 20,000 average annual daily traffic counts.
Measures from street reclaiming, depaving, naked streets, shared space, woonerfs, and Paint the Pavement approaches.
Action 6: Implement traffic calming measures, including road diets and depaving, in at least one street redevelopment project.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Mobility Options
{ BP no. 12 }

A basic map that shows (by neighborhood if a larger city) key civic/commercial sites, best bike and pedestrian routes, and transit routes and schedules; OR report increases in walk/bike counts.
Installed infrastructure such as designed bike or pedestrian or transit facilities (report sidewalks/bike lanes under action 11.4), OR document the increase in employeer-offered transportation fringe benefits, OR attain a Street Smart Walk Score for your city of at least 70 averaged over measurements taken in the center of each zoning district.
Be recognized as a Bicycle or Walk Friendly Community, OR require routine installation of infrastructure, such as bike parking, for all new multifamily and non-residential developments, OR allow property owners to substitute bike parking spaces for required car parking spaces.
Action 1: Promote walking, biking and transit use by one or more of the following means:     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

a. Produce/distribute route maps, signage or a web site.

b. Document increased bike facilities, such as racks, bike stations or showers.

c. Add bus infrastructure, such as signage, benches, shelters, park and ride lots, and real-time arrival data-streaming.

d. Increase the number of employers promoting multiple commuting options, including offering qualified transportation fringe benefits instead of only a tax-free parking fringe benefit.

e. Be recognized as a Walk Friendly or Bicycle Friendly Community.


Describe elements of a Safe Routes program in which the city is involved, and include how many schools are affected and how the program addresses evaluation, encouragement, education, engineering, and enforcement.
Describe key elements of your non-Safe Routes efforts, such as which actions you are challenging which number of people/organizations to take, and how long the campaign is/will run.
Report outcome measures, such as increased walking/biking in the community, improved health outcomes, percent student body covered by SRTS programming, and school bus fuel savings.
Action 2: Launch an Active Living campaign in concert with your local community health board, such as a Safe Routes to School program.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Page on chamber of commerce site includes links to one or more services.
Page on city web site includes links to one or more services.
Information includes or has easy links to costs, routes, operation hours, etc.; promote a peer-to-peer taxi service.
Action 3: Prominently identify mobility options: transit; paratransit/Dial-A-Ride; cab service; rental cars; bikes.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Add or expand transit in your city or between your city and other destinations, working with other units of local governments as needed.
Assist in the creation of or promote the existance of a car sharing business or bike sharing business/service.
Allow housing developers to offer residents discounted bus passes, car/bike share services paid for by constructing fewer parking spaces; schedule transit service for at least every 30 minutes during peak hours so that 75% of city addresses are within 1/2 mile of a transit stop.
Action 6: Add/expand transit service, or promote car/bike sharing.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Efficient City Fleets
{ BP no. 13 }

Survey each fleet vehicle by type, MPG and use; implement at least one "right-size" or down-size improvement (for example, use of a sedan instead of a pick-up truck for inspection work, or one multi-purpose vehicle instead of two vehicles).
"Right-size" all vehicles in one portion of the city's fleet (for example, police, or fire, or public works, on inspections) and report any vehicle reductions and improvement in the fleet's average MPG.
"Right-size" all vehicles in the city's fleet and report vehicle reductions and improvement in the fleet's average MPG.
Action 2: Right-size/down-size the city fleet with the most fuel-efficient vehicles that are of an optimal size and capacity for their intended functions.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Monitor fuel usage and costs on a regular basis. Report data to fleet managers and users. Implement maintenance schedules that optimize vehicle life and fuel efficiency. And either adopt a no-idling policy/practice or conduct training for more efficient driving.
Achieve a 1-Star rating and complete one or more of: (a) purchase or lease at least one highway-usable electric vehicle (EV); (b) add vehicles using lower-carbon fuels (such straight vegetable oil and biodiesel above the State-mandated 5%); (c) add other alternative fuel vehicles.
Achieve a 2-Star rating, add at least 2 more EVs, and install a solar-charging EV station (or purchase renewable electricity for EV charging). Report EV charging stations that the public can use under best practice action 23.5.
Action 3: Phase-in no-idling practices, operational and fuel changes, and equipment changes including electric vehicles, for city or local transit fleets.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Retrofit several city diesel engines. Report participation of school fleets in best practice action 13.5 and businesses in best practice action 23.4
Retrofit all exhaust systems of city heavy-duty diesel truck models with diesel oxidation catalysts or filters.
Install at least one APU. Report business participation in U.S. EPA's SmartWay Transport program under best practice action 23.4
Action 6: Retrofit city diesel engines or install auxiliary power units, utilizing Project GreenFleet or the like.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Demand-Side Travel Planning
{ BP no. 14 }

Include parking maximums in development standards for at least pedestrian-friendly or transit-served areas.
Eliminate parking minimums and/or selectively convert parking spaces (on a pilot basis, seasonally or permanently) into "parklets" and outdoor (retail) seating, or experiment with a car-free downtown/Sunday.
Bring an online parking space sharing service to your city; work with at least one housing developer to unbundle parking space rental/purchase from housing rental/purchase; set performance parking policies/targets, such as using technology to adjust parking rates according to hourly, dayly or seasonal changes, or according to real-time space availability so as to achieve a target parking space occupancy rate between 60% and 85% (or approximately 1-2 open spaces per block face through out the day). Assess parking district revenue and consider returning a minimum percentage of it to district improvements, such as transit and streetscaping.
Action 1: Right-size or eliminate parking minimum development standards and add parking maximums in pedestrian-friendly or transit-served areas.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Action 2: For cities with regular transit service, require or provide incentives for the siting of retail services at transit/density nodes.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Action 4: Adopt a travel demand management plan for city employees or incorporate into development regulations TDM or transit-oriented development standards.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Environmental Management   Environmental Management

Purchasing
{ BP no. 15 }

Have a written policy/guidelines/practices specifying purchase of Energy Star equipment/appliances and recycled-content paper (at least 30% post-consumer).
Have a formal EPP policy adopted by the city council; note if this includes centralized purchasing into one office/person.
Track purchases of products/services coded with an environmental attribute through MN's Co-op Purchasing Venture ('state contract'), and summarize percent of yearly purchases that are coded; join with other cities in joint purchasing of EPP products and summarize EPP purchases.
Action 1: Adopt an environmentally preferable purchasing policy or administrative guidelines/practices directing that the city purchase at least:     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

a. EnergyStar certified equipment and appliances and

b. Paper containing at least 30% post-consumer recycled content.


Adopt a policy or adopt practices for meetings and events hosted by city government addressing issues such as solid waste generated, transit/carpooling to meetings/events. This could include distributing educational materials about holding a no-waste event for use at city-supported events such as National Night Out / Night to Unite. Report broad educational material distributed at events under action 24.4
Achieve 1-star rating and also include a policy for meetings and events taking place on city property, including parks and libraries.
Achieve 2-star rating and work with at least the largest private venue in the city to cut waste generation by at least 1/3 and to increase recycling by at least 1/3.
Action 7: Lower the environmental footprint of meetings and events in the city.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Urban Forests
{ BP no. 16 }

Certified for current year.
Certified for 30 or more years.
Certified for at least 10 years with an annual tree budget of at least $4 per resident (twice the Tree City requirement) or have calculated and publicized the financial and other benefits of trees to your city.
Action 1: Certify as a Tree City USA.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Street trees are provided on both sides of at least 60% of the main downtown street at intervals averaging no more than about 40 feet, excluding driveways and utility vaults.
Major effort providing or offering residents / businesses trees to plant on private property.
Maximize tree planting/landscaping on the entire blocks along mainstreet by, for example, funneling money from a business improvement district to alley plantings, pocket/corner parks, parking lot plantings behind buildings, a community depaving party, and the like.
Action 4: Maximize tree planting along your main downtown street or throughout the city.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Enact requirements such as a tree preservation/replacement ordinance. Report protection of wooded areas by means of zoning or development review under best practice action 10.3
Address tree preservaton on both public and private lands, OR enact requirements such as removing requirements to establish turf grass (this does not refer to removing maintenance standards for turf grass) and permitting native landscaping throughout the city.
Acheive 1 and 2 Star rating AND adopt a policy of no net loss of one or more specified natural landscapes (woodlands, wetlands, bluffs, prairie, etc.).
Action 5: Adopt a tree preservation or native landscaping ordinance.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


At least one volunteer is a Minnesota Certified Tree Inspector or a Minnesota Forest Pest First Detector.
City has written and begun implementing a community emerald ash borer preparedness plan.
At least one city staff member is a licensed forester, a landscape horticulture professional, or holds Tree Inspector and First Detector certification.
Action 6: Build community capacity to protect existing trees by certifying at least one or more local staff/volunteers.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Efficient Stormwater Management
{ BP no. 17 }

Registered for the Blue Star Award program.
Be recognized with a Blue Star Award.
Be recognized on the Leader Board of the Blue Star Award program.
Action 1: Complete the Blue Star City stormwater management assessment and be recognized for implementing the actions therein.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


At least one ordinance in place.
Two ordinances in place.
Three or more ordinances in place.
Action 2: Adopt by ordinance one or more of the following:     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

a. A narrower streets provision that permits construction of 24-foot roads for public, residential access and subcollector streets (with fewer than 500 average daily trips).

b. A 1.5 inch rainfall on-site rainwater infiltration design requirement for construction sites.

c. A stormwater runoff volume limit to pre-development volumes for the 5-year, 24-hour rainfall maximum event.

d. For non-MS4 permittees, adopt an illicit discharge prohibition rule or ordinance.


Install, require and/or provide guidelines for rain gardens, parking lots (salt use reduction/alternatives, coal tar bans, French drains, etc.) or pervious pavement.
Install, require and/or provide guidelines for green roofs, cisterns and other stormwater reuse. Report storage and reuse of stormwater for golf course/parkland irrigation under best practice action 18.5c.
Create a green alley or comprehensive green parking lot program and report resulting benefits; note if photocatalytic cement, which absorbs nitrogen oxides from smog, is used.
Action 5: Adopt and implement guidelines for, or adopt required design standards/incentives for, at least one of the following stormwater infiltration/reuse techniques:     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

a. Rain gardens or green roofs.

b. Cisterns and other stormwater reuse strategies.

c. Green alleys or green parking lots (includes coal tar sealants).

d. Pervious/permeable pavement or pavers.


Erosion and sediment control ordinance has been adopted and implemented. This is a permit requirement for regulated MS4 permittees.
Erosion sediment control ordinance must be followed for sites smaller than one acre.
Annual on-site inspections of all land-disturbing activities are performed by the city.
Action 6: Adopt an ordinance with erosion and sediment control provisions as well as requirements for permanent stormwater treatment.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Parks and Trails
{ BP no. 18 }

Remedy at least one connectivity break by, for example, completing a missing trail section, acquiring a high quality natural area, a priority stormwater management area, vacant space in a high amentiy/redevelopment area, a rail corridor. Report remedies for street-to-trail gaps (between city streets and off-road trails/bike trails) under best practice action 11.5.
Remedy at least 3 connectivity breaks.
Remedy at least 75% of gaps and prepare a plan for remedies to address the remaining gaps.
Action 1: Identify and remedy gaps within your city's system of parks, offroad trails and open spaces.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Have in the city's subdivision chapter code language requiring dedication of open spaces, parks, and drainage easements or, in lieu of that, cash with each new subdivision.
Create and adopt a conceptual parks and green connections plan for greenfield areas having or planned to have urban services or redevelopment areas; integrate into existing Park/Open Space/Trail Plan if one is in place.
Achieve 2 star rating AND require demonstration of bike/ped trail connections for all new housing to existing trail network as part of the subdivision submittal.
Action 2: Plan and budget for a network of parks, green spaces, water features and trails for areas where new development is planned.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


There exist at least 7 acres of municipal park land per 1000 residents.
At least 20% of total city land area is in protected green infrastructure (parks and protected natural resource areas and trails).
90% or more of residents are within one-half mile of a park or protected green space.
Action 3: Achieve minimum levels of city greenspace.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Introduce low/no mow areas into parkland.
Introduce low/no mow areas into parkland AND utilize organic or integrated pest management.
Provide sources of non-potable water, or surface/rain water, for parkland irrigation; introduce sheep to keep grass mowed; other innovative methods.
Action 5: Create park management standards/practices that maximize at least one of the following:     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

a. Low maintenance turf management/native landscaping.

b. Organic or integrated pest management.

c. Sources of non-potable water, or surface/rain water, for irrigation.


One public or private golf course is certified.
More than one golf course certified.
All park lands certified as Audubon Cooperative Sanctuaries.
Action 6: Certify at least one golf course in the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Create an annual event or ongoing 'adopt a park' effort for volunteer trash cleanup of open space, buckthorn removal, etc. for parks or selected public open space areas. Event can be in cooperaton with other organizations.
In addition to cleanup and removal of exotics (1 Star), engage community members in annual restoration of natural areas (replanting shoreland buffers, restoring prairie, etc.).
Create and fund an annual city-wide event for cleanup and restoration, engaging residents in most neighborhoods and creating a public promotion around the event.
Action 8: Develop a program to involve community members in hands-on land restoration and stewardship projects.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Surface Water Quality
{ BP no. 19 }

Work with other organizations to determine quantitative/qualitative targets for lakes, streams, wetlands.
Report at least annually to community members on targets - which must include more than TMDLs - and the status of achieving them. Report use of citizen volunteer lake/stream monitors and the Wetland Health Evaluation Program volunteer monitors.
Report at least three years improvements toward the targets.
Action 3: Adopt and report on measurable, publicly announced surface water improvement targets for water bodies.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Have shoreland standards within development regulation or a stand-alone shoreland ordinance consistent with DNR Rules and approved by the DNR.
Adopt the Alternative Shoreland Standards or similar alternatives reviewed and consistent with recommendations of the DNR Area hydrologist that exceed the minimum standards of the DNR shoreland rules.
Achieve 2 Star rating and include one or both of: (1) a menu of mitigation measures, one or more of which to be attached to shoreland variances ; (2) provisions for restoration of shore impact area and vegetative buffer with permanent protection for all new shoreland development.
Action 4: Adopt a shoreland ordinance for all river and lake shoreland areas.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Efficient Water and Wastewater Facilities
{ BP no. 20 }

Create a motor replacement plan for key motors, to at least maintain efficient operation and preferably improve it.
Upgrade SCADA systems to use existing flow and amperage or kilowatt measurements as a real-time efficiency measure for key equipment.
Review energy use for proposed plant upgrades at current volumes of water treated as well as at design capacity to verify the plant will run efficiently over the range of expected flow rates.
Action 2: Plan and budget for motor maintenance and upgrades so as to assure the most energy efficient, durable and appropriate equipment is available when upgrades or break downs occur.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Options include shifting operation times of large pumps or activities so as to secure a cheaper electrical rate, purchasing cheaper 'interruptable rate' electricity, installing a peaking generator for load shaving/cost savings as well as backup power.
Evaluate pump efficiency, repair or upgrade to efficient ones and report on anticipated cost savings.
Implement other drinking water facility upgrades such as measurable reduction in chemical use, use of backwash water, etc.
Action 4: Assess energy and chemicals use at drinking water / wastewater facilities and report on implemented changes that had a short payback period.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Septic Systems
{ BP no. 21 }

Good Guidance
Better Guidance
Best Guidance
Action 1: Report to landowners suspected noncompliant or failing septic systems as part of an educational, informational and financial assistance and outreach program designed to trigger voluntary landowner action to improve septic systems.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Action 2: Create a program that follows the five-step process for addressing failing septic systems developed by the University of Minnesota's Onsite Sewage Treatment Program.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Good Guidance
Better Guidance
Best Guidance
Action 3: Clarify/establish one or more responsible management entities for the proper design, siting, installation, operation, monitoring and maintenance of septic systems.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Good Guidance
Include a provision that requires yearly monitoring reports on the effectiveness of indentified septic systems, as needed.
Best Guidance
Action 4: Adopt a subsurface sewage treatment system ordinance based on the Association of Minnesota Counties' model ordinance.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Good Guidance
Better Guidance
Best Guidance
Action 5: Create a program to finance septic systems upgrades through, for example, a city revenue bond, repayable through taxpayers' property taxes.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Action 6: Work with homeowners and businesses in environmentally sensitive areas and areas where standard septic systems are not the least-cost option to promote innovative waste water systems.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Action 7: Arrange for assistance to commercial, retail and industrial businesses with water use reduction, pollution prevention and pretreatment prior to discharge to septics.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Local Air Quality
{ BP no. 23 }

Regulate outdoor wood burning.
Regulate outdoor wood boilers.
Ban or enforce performance standards for specific types of burning.
Action 2: Regulate outdoor wood burning, using model ordinance language, performance standards and bans as appropriate, for at least one of the following:     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

a. Recreational burning.

b. Outdoor wood boilers.


Place 2 stations either at 1 or 2 high use areas or at 2 different geographic areas.
Report 4 or more EV stations.
Connect EV stations to on-site renewable generation such as PV panels.
Action 5: Install at least two public charging stations for plug-in hybrid and full electric vehicles.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Economic and Community Development   Economic and Community Development

Benchmarks & Community Engagement
{ BP no. 24 }

At the least, an annual newspaper/newsletter article or other media outreach to all community members that discusses participation in the GreenStep program (and other programs as are fitting) and refers people to entries on the GreenStep website.
A citizens commission or committee of city staff/officials exists to lead and coordinate GreenStep implementation; a report available online with details on city's GreenStep accomplishments.
A committee of city staff/officials and community members (business, education, religious) exists; annual report includes some metrics, such as dollars spent/saved, energy saved, and any sustainability indicators measured, and energy/carbon inventory data or ecological footprint data if gathered.
Action 1: Use a committee to lead, coordinate and report to community members on implementation of GreenStep best practices.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Report goals/outcomes at least annually from plans such as comprehensive, parks, library, housing, stormwater, drinking water, transportation, economic development, energy, sustainability.
Achieve 1 Star rating AND identify specific steps from each city department on how to improve performance or meet goals that were not met in the previous year
Integrate goals/outcomes reporting explicitly into the city capital improvement planning process, identifying how public dollars are targeted to meeting sustainability goals in the plans.
Action 2: Organize goals/outcome measures from all city plans and report to community members data that show progress toward meeting these goals.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Involve an existing city council committee or community task force, or create an energy, environment, or sustainability city council subcommittee, advisory commission or task force.
Adopt and commit to measure and annually report on sustainability indicators, generally related to or directly tied city's work on GreenStep best practices; may include community-wide energy and water use, vehicle miles traveled, and waste generated.
Adopt and commit to measure and annually report on broad sustainability indicators such as covered by the STAR Community Rating System.
Action 3: Engage community members in a public process that results in city council adoption of and commitment to measure and report on progress toward sustainability indicators.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Action 4: Conduct or support a broad sustainability education and action campaign involving:     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

a. The entire community

b. Homeowners

c. Block clubs/neighborhood associations

d. Congregations

e. Schools and youth


Green Business Development
{ BP no. 25 }

Provide incentives such as targeted loans, grants, streamlined permitting processes, OR participate in coordinated marketing and business assistance efforts, OR provide similar such support.
Provide or link businesses to incubator space or other tangible assests.
Utilize an economic gardening approach; support the creation of co-operatively owned businesses (report retail food co-ops under action 27.4); develop workforce training opportunities with community colleges and job training centers.
Action 1: Support new/emerging green businesses and green jobs through targeted assistance.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Promote business assistance providers on your city web site on an ongoing basis, or identify how the city has promoted business assistance to at least 5 for-profit or non-profit organizations about audit/assistance programs within the past year.
Report outcomes from these visits; for example, number of businesses assisted by whom and a sampling of results/improvements made, such as energy or waste reductions. Report assistance to businesses on water conservation and wastewater pretreatment (could be from a city utility) under actions 20.6 and 20.7
Post testimonials from successful assistance that document financial and environmental outcomes.
Action 2: Connect businesses with assistance providers, including utilities, who provide personalized energy, waste or sustainability audits and assistance.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Renewable Energy
{ BP no. 26 }

Ensure that solar and wind energy installations are allowed land uses for appropriate zoning districts within the zoning code. Report any resulting installed capacity in kW.
Adopt the Minnesota Solar Challenge land use best practices or a wind ordinance with provisions that promote rather than restrict renewable energy installations. Include incentive provisions such as fee guidelines, fast-tracking permits (as noted in Action 7). Report any resulting installed capacity in kW.
Adopt solar energy standards and a wind energy ordinance AND require renewable energy installations or RE-ready buildings when the city is a financial participant in a project. Report any resulting installed capacity in kW.
Action 1: Adopt solar energy standards or a wind energy ordinance that allows or encourages appropriate renewable energy installations.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Past collaboration on a private sector project. Report industrial wastewater biogas projects under action 20.6
Current collaboration on a private sector project; report installed kW capactiy.
Current collaboration on a private sector project that is utility-scale.
Action 6: Enable a new or demonstrate prior collaboration for installed private sector renewable energy / energy efficient generation capacity with at least one of the following attributes:     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

a. Fueled by flowing water, sun, wind, or biogas.

b. Fueled in part or whole by manure or woody biomass, optimized for minimal air and other environmental impacts and for energy efficiency and water conservation.

c. Distributing heating/cooling services in a district energy system.

d. Producing combined heat and power.


Local Food
{ BP no. 27 }

Remove restrictions to food gardening/raising of chickens/bees in residential areas.
Assure that one development has dedicated, permanent and managed growing space, such as resident garden space, and/or related facilities (such as greenhouses). Report under GreenStep action 3.5 adopted city guidelines that prevent the restriction of food production through homeowner covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&R) or other forms of deed restrictions.
Work with a rental building owner to establish a community garden, farmer's market or CSA/food buying club drop-point within 1/2 mile; OR establish tax incentives to use vacant lots for urban agriculture
Action 2: Facilitate home/community gardens, chickens/bees, and incorporation of food growing areas/access in multifamily residential developments.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Summarize what exists in the city: farmer's markets, community/school gardens/orchards/forests, garden plots in city parks, urban agriculture, CSAs, co-op buying clubs.
Report on steps such as free use of city land for a farmer's market, hiring a temporary community garden coordinator, supporting season extension techniques such as hoop houses or greenhouses.
Report on percent of residents within a 1/4 mile of a healthy food source (farmer's market, community garden, CSA drop point, stores with an NAICS code of 445110 or 455230).
Action 3: Inventory and promote local food production/distribution within the city:     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

a. A farmer's market or co-op buying club.

b. An urban agriculture business or a community-supported agriculture (CSA) arrangement between farmers and community members/employees.

c. A community or school garden, orchard or forest.


Action 4: Measurably increase institutional buying, and sales through groceries and restaurants.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

a. Purchasing of local foods by schools, hospitals, nursing homes and event centers.

b. Sales of local food in markets, retail food co-ops, rural grocery stores, urban convenience stores, hotels and restaurants.


Business Synergies
{ BP no. 28 }

Energy/water reuse includes: reuse of non-contact industrial cooling water; reuse of hot water from a laundromat by a nearby greenhouse; use of waste heat from a crematory to heat a nearby recreation center and its pool. Record projects under best practice action 20.6 where a city wastewater plant sells reclaimed water for nonpotable ag-processing, irrigation, cooling or power plant uses, or when the plant co-generates electricity and heat and sells it to businesses.
Describe how the city facilitated at least one such project.
Report how the city is, on an ongoing basis, helping businesses complete these reuse projects and how many completed projects exist.
Action 2: Document that at least one business/building uses waste heat or water discharge from another business.     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

 


Action 3: Require, build or facilitate at least four of the following in a business/industrial park project:     [Click here for self-reported city details ]

a. Shared parking/access OR shared recreation/childcare facilities.

b. Green product development, manufacturing or sales OR a green job training program..

c. Buildings located within walking distance of transit and/or residential zoning.

d. Renovated buildings OR buildings designed for reuse.

e. Green buildings built to exceed the Minnesota energy code by 20% OR renewabale energy generated on-site.

f. Combined heat and power (CHP) generation capacity OR shared geothermal heating/cooling.

g. Low-impact site development.