City Detail

Background Information

City of Albert Lea
County: Freeborn
Population: 18492
GreenStep City category: A
Full-time equivalent city staff (approx.): 130
Participating township, county, school:

GreenStep Coordinator

Ian Rigg
City Staff
irigg@ci.albertlea.mn.us
507-377-4331
City web page relating to sustainability/GreenStep activities:
https://www.cityofalbertlea.org/
GreenStep City resolution: Click here to view the file.
GreenStep City status and date: STEP 3 ( )

City Assessment Files and City Performance Metrics

City councils pass a resolution to join the GreenStep program and are recognized at Step 1. Step 2 and Step 3 recognition levels reflect completed city actions, reported and rated below with stars (1 star = good, 2 stars = better, 3 stars = best). The Assessment File below summarizes completed city actions in a short Word file. Step 4 recognition is awarded to cities who report a minimum number of core metrics for the previous calendar year. These metrics aim to show the aggregate, quantitative results of taking multiple GreenStep actions. Step 5 cities show improvement in the Step 4 metrics. See yearly data for Steps 4&5. Additional city data can be found by reviewing information on B3 Benchmarking and Regional Indicators Initiative.

Assessment File
2019 - click to view assessment

Best Practice Actions Underway and Completed

Completed actions are denoted by stars.

Total completed actions: 55
1 star actions: 25
2 star actions: 17
3 star actions: 13

Buildings and Lighting Buildings and Lighting

Efficient Existing Public Buildings {BP no.1}

1 star - Action 1:

Enter/update government-owned building information and monthly usage data into the MN B3 Benchmarking database, and utilize building/energy audits to identify potential improvements.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
All City-owned building information has been entered into the B3 Benchmarking database and available utility data from the last 12 months has been entered. The City of Albert Lea will continue to update the database on a monthly basis.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
2 star - Action 2:

Make no/low cost indoor lighting and operational changes in city-owned/school buildings to reduce energy costs.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Alliant Energy conducted energy audits at major city-owned facilities in 2012. The attached document outlines the changes that have been made at each facility.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
2 star - Action 3:

Invest in larger energy efficiency projects through performance contracting or other funding or through smaller retro-commissioning/retrofit projects in city-owned/school buildings.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Alliant Energy conducted energy audits at major city-owned facilities in 2012. The attached document outlines the changes that have been made at each facility.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
1 star - Action 4:

Implement IT efforts and city employee engagement to reduce plug loads, building energy use and workflow efficiency.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2015
Implementation details:
The City's Green Committee sent a memo to employees reminding them to turn off equipment while they are away. In addition to that, energy saving light switches have been installed in City Hall.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316

Efficient Outdoor Lighting and Signals {BP no.4}

3 star - Action 2:

Purchase LEDs for all future street lighting and traffic signals.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
All traffic signals use LED lights and it is the City's policy to purchase only LED replacements.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
3 star - Action 4:

Coordinate traffic signals and/or optimize signal timing to minimize car idling at intersections yet maintain safe and publicly acceptable vehicle speeds.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
All new traffic signals are synchronized with existing traffic signals when installed to minimize idling and maintain optimal traffic flow.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
1 star - Action 5:

Use LED/solar-powered lighting for a flashing sign or in a street, parking lot or park project.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The Albert Lea Police Department facilitated the installation of a solar-powered speed sign on Hammer Road.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
3 star - Action 8:

Replace the city's existing traffic signal indications with LEDs.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
All traffic signals use LED lights.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316

Building Redevelopment {BP no.5}

3 star - Action 1:

Adopt an historic preservation ordinance/regulations and encourage adaptive reuse.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2005
Implementation details:
Downtown Albert Lea is designated as a historic commercial district. The historic district includes 91 contributing buildings. These buildings are the target of adaptive reuse and are eligible for state and federal funding. The City has worked directly on a number of redevelopment projects in the historic commercial district.

Albert Lea has been a CLG since 2005.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
1 star - Action 2:

Implement the Minnesota Main Street model for commercial revitalization.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2016
Implementation details:
Staff has attended two national Main Street conferences and intends on submitting an application to the program in 2018.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
1 star - Action 3:

Plan for reuse of large-format retail buildings, or work with a local school, church or commercial building to either add-on space or repurpose space into new uses.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2018
Implementation details:
The City of Albert Lea was awarded a grant through the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency that will be used for repurposing a school.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
12 housing units are expected to be completed as part of this project.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.kimt.com/content/news/City-of-Albert-Lea-to-renovate-former-Ramsey-School-into-apartments-485891591.html
Schoolhouse LLC
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316

Land Use Land Use

Comprehensive, Climate and Energy Plans {BP no.6}

2 star - Action 1:

Adopt a comprehensive plan or (for Category B & C cities) adopt a future land use plan that was adopted by the county or a regional entity.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City of Albert Lea updated their comprehensive plan in 2014. The plan includes sustainability goals and strategies. The link to the comprehensive plan is included.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://cityofalbertlea.org/departments/planning-and-development/comprehensive-plan/
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
3 star - 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.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The comprehensive plan is referenced throughout the zoning code and zoning decisions are required to be in compliance with the comprehensive plan.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.municode.com/library/search?stateId=23&clientId=971&searchText=comprehensive%20plan&contentTypeId=CODES
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316

Resilient City Growth {BP no.7}

1 star - Action 3:

Achieve higher intensity commercial/industrial land uses through at least one of the following strategies:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The B3 Central Business District has reduced lot sizes and zero-lot-line setbacks.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.municode.com/library/mn/albert_lea/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTIICOOR_CH74ZOLAUS_ARTIIIDI_DIV9CEBUDI
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316

Mixed Uses {BP no.8}

2 star - Action 2:

Locate or lease a property for use as a school, city building or other government facility that has at least two of these attributes:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 1968
Implementation details:
City Hall is located in downtown Albert Lea, an employment center. It is in the center of the town, easily accessible by foot and bike. In addition to that, the Albert Lea Senior Center (owned and operated by the City) is located in a shopping mall, right near the largest apartment building in the city. Both locations are on the SMART public transit route.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
2 star - Action 5:

Have a downtown zoning district that emphasizes small and destination business, entrepreneurial spaces, and allows or requires residential and residential-compatible commercial development.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Downtown Albert Lea is zoned as a B3 Central Business District allowing for commercial, light industrial, and multi-family residential.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.municode.com/library/mn/albert_lea/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTIICOOR_CH74ZOLAUS_ARTIIIDI_DIV9CEBUDI
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316

Efficient Highway- and Auto-Oriented Development {BP no.9}

1 star - Action 2:

Participate in regional economic development planning with representatives from surrounding townships, cities, the county and business interests to:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Members of the City of Albert Lea, Freeborn County Administration, Albert Lea Economic Development Agency (ALEDA) and the Chamber of Commerce meet on a monthly basis.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Freeborn County, ALEDA, Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316

Transportation Transportation

Living & Complete Streets {BP no.11}

2 star - Action 1:

Adopt a complete streets policy, or a living streets policy, which addresses landscaping and stormwater.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
City Ordinance 129(t) was adopted by the Albert Lea City Council in 2009 declaring that all subdivisions will be designed with complete streets.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.municode.com/library/mn/albert_lea/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTIICOOR_CH54SU_ARTIIIIM_S54-129STBLLA
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
2 star - Action 3:

Modify a street in compliance with the city's complete streets policy.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
In 2013 the City of Albert Lea completed the Broadway Avenue Streetscape project. The project brought downtown into compliance with the complete streets ordinance passed in 2009 by narrowing Broadway Avenue, widening sidewalks, and including bicycle lanes. Tree boxes and a rain garden were also added.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
2 star - Action 6:

Implement traffic calming policy/measures, including lane conversions (road diets), roundabouts, low-speed streets, shared space and depaving, in at least one street redevelopment project.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
In 2015 the City of Albert Lea implemented a road diet on Broadway Avenue, converting the road from 4 lanes to 3 and adding bike lanes.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316

Mobility Options {BP no.12}

3 star - Action 1:

Increase walking, biking and transit use by one or more of the following means:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2009
Implementation details:
City staff connected an organization that allows employees to use pretax income for transit purposes with Workforce Development. Staff hopes that the connection may lead more employees to use transit in Albert Lea and save money in doing so.

In 2009 The City of Albert Lea adopted a Complete Streets Policy. Since 2009, the city has added over seven miles of sidewalk and 3 miles of bike lanes.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Our Walking and biking have increase by 39% since 2010. These numbers are supported by both annual trail counts and the Gallup Wellbeing Index that was conducted Albert lea in 2014 and 2016. We are above the National and State average in active living. In 2015 we won the Local Government Innovation Award for our work in Active Living.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Blue Zones Project, SHIP
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
3 star - Action 2:

Conduct an Active Living campaign such as a Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2017
Implementation details:
Albert lea has offered a Family Bike Rodeo every year since 2010. It is the anchor of an open streets ciclovia event called Just Play. The rodeo is attended by more then 150 children a summer along with their parents. Free bike helmets and used bikes are part of the event along with safety education, bike check-up station and an agility course.

In the Fall of 2015 District #241 implemented a Walk % Roll program in all our schools. Maps are provided for each school that show the best routes to school both walking and biking.

Our Safe Routes to school initiative is progressing very quickly. Student Tallies of each school were conducted were taken in the spring of 2015. In the Fall of 2015 a Routes to School to School workshop was scheduled and well attended. We have now secured a $10,000 grant from SHIP and hired the Alpha Design Group to help us with the engineering portion of our Safe Routes implementation grant. Our school assessments are scheduled for April 10-13. Along with Alpha Design engineers, our city engineers, the facility manager of District #241 and many community members we will do observations at both drop off and pick up times at all 6 public schools. Our community goal is to have a solid and strategic 5-10 plan for addressing built environment needs at our Albert Lea Area Schools.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
In 2010 the Front Street bike lane was constructed. The Trail counts done on this built environment project connected to Southwest Middle School and Sibley elementary shows a 69% increase in walking and biking the last 7 years.
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
Blue Zones Project, SHIP, Active Living Committee, Safe Routes to School Committee
2 star - Action 3:

Prominently promote mobility options: public transit; paratransit/Dial-A-Ride; cab services; rental cars; bike lanes; trails; airports.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2016
Implementation details:
The City of Albert Lea links to SMART Transit as a resource (see attached). More than that, however, the City frequently posts information about SMART Transit on its Facebook page. The City also connected SMART with media outlets to inform the public that SMART won the Transit System of the Year, that the agency provides free rides to Vets and that SMART expanded its hours.

After SMART Transit announced service to Austin, the City promoted SMART Transit widely. The information included costs,the routes and operational hours.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
SMART Transit ridership has increased every year.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://cityofalbertlea.org/about-albert-lea/community-links/
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
2 star - Action 6:

Add/expand public transit service.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2017
Implementation details:
In 2017, SMART Transit expanded its operations in Albert Lea. The bus service now runs from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., expanded from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The demand response service now operates on weekends. The City coordinated press for SMART, ensuring that as many news outlets broadcast the news.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
SMART Transit
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316

Efficient City Fleets {BP no.13}

1 star - Action 4:

Phase in bike, e-bike, foot or horseback modes for police, inspectors and other city staff.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The Albert Lea Police Department established their Bike Patrol unit in 1998. The Bike Patrol unit is highly visible and accessible to the community, day or night, seven days a week, throughout all of Albert Lea. The Bike Patrol unit is comprised of P.O.S.T. licensed and specially trained Police Officers, under the continued professional development and command of Lt. Darren Hanson, Police Cyclist Instructor.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://cityofalbertlea.org/departments/police/units/
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
1 star - Action 5:

Document that the local school bus fleet has optimized routes, start times, boundaries, vehicle efficiency and fuels, driver actions to cut costs including idling reduction, and shifting students from the bus to walking, biking and city transit.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Albert Lea school bus routes are optimized for efficiency as per industry best practices.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316

Environmental Management Environmental Management

Sustainable Purchasing {BP no.15}

1 star - Action 1:

Adopt a sustainable purchasing policy or administrative guidelines/practices directing that the city purchase at least:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2017
Implementation details:
The City will comply with the state law that mandates the purchase of 30% post-consumer recycled paper.

The City is formalizing its policy on purchasing Energy Star equipment
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
1 star - Action 2:

Purchase energy used by city government - via the municipal utility, green tags, community solar garden, 3rd party - with a higher renewable percentage than required by Minnesota law.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Minnesota Three LLC's Solar Array is a collaborative effort between Freeborn-Mower Cooperative Services (Albert Lea), People's Energy Cooperative (Oronoco) and Tri-County Electric Cooperative (Rushford) to bring commercial-grade solar energy to southeastern Minnesota. The 517 kW solar array began generating electricity on June 30, 2014, and harvests enough of the sun's rays to power about 60 homes.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://fmcs.coop/index.php/services/solar
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
2 star - Action 5:

Set minimum sustainability standards to reduce the impact of your concrete use, asphalt, roadbed aggregate, or other construction materials.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City of Albert Lea uses recycled asphalt for all road projects, up to 30% of the asphalt content may be RAP.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
1 star - Action 7:

Lower the environmental footprint of meetings and events in the city.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2013
Implementation details:
The City of Albert Lea purchased iPads for its Councilors in 2013. Since then, the City no longer printed the council packets for the meetings. Packets are distributed via Dropbox.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
The City Counil is made up of six Councilors and a Mayor. Seven council packets, usually of 60 pages each, are no longer printed for a meeting that occurs twice a month. This eliminates roughly 10,000 sheets of paper from being printed every year.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316

Community Forests and Soils {BP no.16}

3 star - Action 1:

Certify as a Tree City USA.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Albert Lea has been a certified Tree City USA community for 22 years. The 2016 tree budget averages $8.45 per resident.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
1 star - Action 2:

Adopt best practices for urban tree planting/quality; require them in private developments and/or use them in at least one development project.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City of Albert Lea Forestry Department follows industry best management practices.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
1 star - Action 4:

Maximize tree planting along your main downtown street or throughout the city.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
In 2013 the City of Albert Lea completed the Broadway Avenue Streetscape project. The project brought downtown into compliance with the complete streets ordinance passed in 2009. Tree boxes were added to Broadway Avenue on both sides at intervals averaging no more than 40 feet.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
2 star - Action 6:

Build community capacity to protect existing trees by one or more of:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City of Albert Lea Forestry Department has two certified arborists and four certified tree inspectors on staff.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316

Stormwater Management {BP no.17}

1 star - Action 5:

Adopt and implement guidelines or design standards/incentives for at least one of the following stormwater infiltration/reuse practices:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The Shell Rock River Watershed District works with the City of Albert Lea to implement reasonable and necessary improvements to the water-related and other natural resources of the area. Projects include:
• Offering rain barrels for sale (including a $10 cost share for citizens living in Albert Lea), as well as instructions for proper use available on the website, in person, or as flyers available at the office.
• Assisted with installation of 3 rain gardens in Albert Lea (Lakeview, Fountain Lake Park, and at S 1st Ave and W Main St), and plans are underway for a large rain garden in a City lot. Information and guidelines for installing rain gardens is available on the website. Cost share incentives are available for rain gardens as well.
• Cost shares are also available for permeable pavement.
• During reconstruction of Broadway and Main St., tree boxes were installed.
• For all projects completed by the District, native plants are sourced if possible.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.shellrock.org/projects
Shell Rock River Watershed District
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
1 star - Action 6:

Improve smart-salting by reducing chloride use in winter maintenance and dust suppressants to prevent permanent surfacewater and groundwater pollution.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2018
Implementation details:
Shell Rock River Watershed District hosted a Smart Salting road training workshop in Spring 2018. Another workshop focused on parking lots and sidewalks is being planned for Spring 2019.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Shell Rock River Watershed District and Fortin Consulting
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316

Surface Water {BP no.19}

2 star - Action 2:

Conduct or support multi-party community conversations, assessments, plans and actions around improving local water quality and quantity.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2016
Implementation details:
The Albert Lea Lakes Foundation hosted a series of talks about water quality. These sessions were held throughout 2016. Members of the Shell Rock River Watershed District, as well as the Mayor and City Manager attended these talks. Staff from the Watershed informed the community about all of the work that has been done since the group's inception as well as what the group hopes to do over the next 15 years.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
1 star - Action 4:

Adopt a shoreland ordinance for all river and lake shoreland areas.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Freeborn County has a shoreland ordinance in compliance with state-wide shoreland standards. This ordinance applies to all bodies of water in Freeborn County as classified in Section 5 of the attached ordinance.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.co.freeborn.mn.us/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/98
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316

Efficient Water and Wastewater Systems {BP no.20}

1 star - Action 1:

Compare the energy use and financial performance of your facilities with other peer facilities using standardized, free tools.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City of Albert Lea conducted an energy audit at the WWTP in 2012. The City is using the B3 Benchmarking database to compare energy usage to peer plants.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
1 star - Action 2:

Plan and budget for motor maintenance and upgrades to assure the most energy efficient, durable and appropriate equipment is available when upgrades or breakdowns occur.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City of Albert Lea has a maintenance and replacement budget for key equipment. Organization best practices require equipment to be replaced with the most efficient and effective alternative available.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
2 star - Action 3:

Establish an on-going budget and program for decreasing inflow and infiltration into sewer lines and losses in drinking water systems.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
In 2007 the City of Albert Lea launched Engineering Project 0701. This project targets 5,500 homes with potential I/I compliance issues. This project has reduced energy consumption at the WWTP and increased efficiency. This project is ongoing, there are 50 homes remaining in noncompliance with I/I standards.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
3 star - Action 6:

Implement a wastewater plant efficiency project (co-generation, water reuse) or a program for local private business operations (water conservation, water reuse, business co-location).

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
At the 6.7 MGD Waste Water Treatment facility, Albert Lea has operated a 120 kW on-site methane fired electric generation system since 2003.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://midwestchptap.org/profiles/ProjectProfiles/Albert_Lea_WWT_Facility_Profile.pdf
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316

Septic Systems {BP no.21}

3 star - 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.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Freeborn County performs compliance inspections when property is transferred or building permits are issued. If there are compliance issues the property owner has a varying window of time to bring the septic system into compliance. Property owners are eligible for three low interest loan programs to upgrade their septic system - through the USDA, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, and Freeborn County.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Freeborn County
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
1 star - Action 3:

Clarify/establish one or more responsible management entities (RMEs) for the proper design, siting, installation, operation, monitoring and maintenance of septic systems.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Freeborn County offers an in depth list of septic service providers in the area. See attached.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
Freeborn County
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
1 star - Action 5:

Create a program to finance septic system upgrades.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Property owners are eligible for three low interest loan programs to upgrade their septic system - through the USDA, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, and Freeborn County.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Freeborn County
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
1 star - 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, including central sewer extensions.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Freeborn County works with homeowners in environmentally sensitive areas and areas where standard septic systems are not the most efficient option to transition to alternate waste water systems including central sewer extension.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Freeborn County
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316

Resilient Economic & Community Development Resilient Economic and Community Development

Benchmarks and Community Engagement {BP no.24}

1 star - Action 1:

Inclusive and Coordinated Decision-Making: Use a city commission or committee to lead, coordinate, report to and engage community members on the identification and equitable implementation of sustainability best practices.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The GreenStep initiative is being lead by a group of City staff known as the Green Committee. This committee is responsible for implementing the actions necessary to become a Step 3 GreenStep City and logging the changes made in the GreenStep website.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
1 star - Action 2:

Communicating Progress on Goals: Organize goals/outcome measures from all city plans (social, environmental, economic) and report to community members data that show progress toward meeting these goals.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The Albert Lea City Council has outlined five goals for the community. When steps are made toward achieving these goals they are publicized and promoted.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316

Green Business Development {BP no.25}

3 star - Action 1:

Grow new/emerging green businesses and green jobs through targeted assistance and new workforce development.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Riverland Community College offers a solar installer certification and a wind turbine technician degree at its Albert Lea campus. These programs provide new workforce development for local green industry.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.riverland.edu/academics/programs/solar-installer-cert/description/
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
2 star - Action 6:

Promote green businesses that are recognized under a local, regional or national program.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2017
Implementation details:
The Albert Lea Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce is beginning an awards program that recognizes businesses for green practices. Citizens can nominate the businesses and the Chamber's Green Committee will select the winner to be announced at the Chamber's Annual Dinner.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
This is a program of inspiration. It is the committee's desire to see the business community step forward and pay greater attention to how they impact the environment.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Albert Lea Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
3 star - Action 7:

Conduct or participate in a buy local campaign for community members and local businesses.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 1997
Implementation details:
The Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce implemented a gift certificate program known as chamber bucks for over 20 years.

The Chamber and the City undertake many initiatives together.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Over $150,000 is spent in Chamber bucks each year.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.albertlea.org/membership-benefits
Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316

Local Food {BP no.27}

3 star - Action 3:

Create, assist with and promote local food production/distribution within the city:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2017
Implementation details:
The City allows use of city land for a farmer's market. The City also has 3 Community Gardens all administrated by Parks and Recreation. Two are on City property and the other is a Joint Powers Agreement. A total number 120 of plots are available to city residents.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
With three grocery Stores , 2 Farmers Market locations and 3 community gardens located within the city limits of Albert Lea at least 80% of the total population is within 1 mile of some form of food access.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Blue Zones Project; SHIP; Albert Lea Economic Development Agency;Farmers Market; Hill Top CSA, Wintergreen Food coop; Hy-vee, Marketplace Foods.
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316

Climate Adaptation and Community Resilience {BP no.29}

2 star - Action 1:

Prepare to maintain public health and safety during extreme weather and climate-change-related events, while also taking a preventive approach to reduce risk for community members.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2013
Implementation details:
Freeborn County has a Hazard Mitigation Plan that applies to the City of Albert Lea. This plan and emergency procedures are reviewed on a quarterly basis by representatives from cities in Freeborn County. The demographics of the County are addressed in section 2.2 of the plan.

The person responsible for city preparedness, emergency response and recovery efforts is Rich Hall, the Director of Freeborn County Emergency Management.

The City is beginning to develop materials that would be useful in emergency situations. There is a sizable Latino and Karen population in town for which materials will need to be developed.

Homeland Security Emergency Management Minesota assists with translating materials into other languages, as do the VOADs.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
2 star - Action 2:

Integrate climate resilience into city or tribal planning, policy, operations, and budgeting processes.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2018
Implementation details:
Ted Redmond of Pale Blue Dot conducted a high-level assessment of climate vulnerabilities. The City created a website that uses data from the plan as a premise to discuss the amount of impervious surface within the city. In addition to that, city staff generated press about the website to involve residents and engage Albert Leans in a discussion about how space is used within downtown AL.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://cityofalbertlea.org/walk-and-bike-albert-lea/
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
1 star - Action 3:

Increase social connectedness through engagement, capacity building, public investment, and opportunities for economically vulnerable residents to improve their economic prosperity and resilience to climate change.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2015
Implementation details:
The Mayor, City Manager, and Assistant City Manager went door-to-door in two parts of town, asking residents what actions could be taken by the city to improve quality of life. If constituents had an issue, the three took notes and asked the appropriate staff to respond. The City also started a weekly e-newsletter and increased posting on social media.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
The newsletter now has 900 subscribers. The City's Facebook following ballooned from 1,400 to 2,700.

The program was also recognized by the Alliance for Innovation
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.albertleatribune.com/2015/10/going-door-by-door-for-community-input/
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316