City Detail

Background Information

City of Crosslake
County: Crow Wing
Population: 2214
GreenStep City category: B
Full-time equivalent city staff (approx.): 14
Participating township, county, school:

GreenStep Coordinator

Patty Norgaard
Community Volunteer
pattynorgaard@crosslake.net
218-692-5370
City web page relating to sustainability/GreenStep activities:
https://www.cityofcrosslake.org/
GreenStep City resolution: Click here to view the file.
GreenStep City status and date: STEP 2 ( )

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
2023 - click to view assessment

Best Practice Actions Underway and Completed

Completed actions are denoted by stars.

Total completed actions: 23
1 star actions: 14
2 star actions: 6
3 star actions: 3

Buildings and Lighting Buildings and Lighting

Efficient Existing Public Buildings {BP no.1}

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: 2018
Implementation details:
All city hall lighting has been converted to LED
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Patty Norgaard (Community Volunteer) | pattynorgaard@crosslake.net | 218-692-5370

Land Use Land Use

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

1 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: 2018
Implementation details:
Tad Erickson of Region Five Development Commission presented the draft of the Comprehensive Plan Update along with suggested changes from the Planning and Zoning Commission to the City Council. Resolution 18:18 was approved on May 14, 2018 noting that the plan would be reviewed annually.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.cityofcrosslake.org/vertical/sites/%7BFEA8DD90-54F2-4E30-BF15-72B67E6DC206%7D/uploads/Crosslake_Comprehensive_Plan_Update_2018.pdf
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041
1 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: 2018
Implementation details:
The City of Crosslake Code of Ordinances Chapter 26 Land Use effective 10-14-14 was revised 10-16-18 using the updated Comprehensive Plan as a foundation for changes.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.cityofcrosslake.org/vertical/sites/%7BFEA8DD90-54F2-4E30-BF15-72B67E6DC206%7D/uploads/Chapter_26_UPDATE__4-14-2014_rev_10-16-2018.pdf
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041
1 star - Action 3:

Include requirements in comprehensive and/or other plans for intergovernmental coordination addressing regional land use and watershed / wellhead impacts, infrastructure, transportation, economic development and city/regional services.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2018
Implementation details:
The City of Crosslake Planning Commission, with the assistance from Staff, Steering Committee, National Joint Powers Alliance, and Region Five Development Commission were all involved in the process of updating the Comprehensive Plan.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041

Mixed Uses {BP no.8}

3 star - Action 1:

Organize or participate in a community planning/placemaking/design process for the city/a mixed-use district, including specific community engagement practices that engage cultural and income diverse community members.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2016
Implementation details:
The Minnesota Design Team (MDT) visited Crosslake September 16-17, 2016 with architects, landscape architects, urban designers, planners, and other experts in design and community development.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Out of this project, a community team called the Crosslakers was created.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.explorebrainerdlakes.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Crosslake_MDT_9.17.16.pdf#page=1
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041
1 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: 2018
Implementation details:
The Crosslake Community School created a modern facility opened in 2018 for education, cultural experiences and environmental engagement essential to civic life as the heart of the Crosslake community. The building is located on the main thoroughfare of the city and across from the Corp of Engineers Campground and next to a business center. In addition, the eastern portion of the land made available to the school is currently wooded and will stay that way to be used as an “outdoor classroom” where students will learn about wildlife management and using natural resources effectively.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041

Design for Natural Resource Conservation {BP no.10}

2 star - Action 7:

Support and protect wildlife through habitat rehabilitation, preservation and recognition programs.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2018
Implementation details:
A resolution proclaiming International Migratory Bird Day in the City of Crosslake on May 18, 2019 was approved as the first step in becoming a Bird City on September 10, 2018. The next step, an application to Audubon Minnesota to become a Bird City member, was approved on December 12, 2018.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041

Transportation Transportation

Living & Complete Streets {BP no.11}

1 star - Action 4:

Identify, prioritize and remedy complete streets gaps and lack of connectivity/safety within your road network by, for example, bike/pedestrian plan, adding a bike route/lane, truck route, sidewalk or mid-block alley.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2017
Implementation details:
The Walkability Walkshop was made possible by a grant from the National Association of REALTORS, local funding from Greater Lakes Association of REALTORS and partnership with the City of Crosslake and the volunteer citizens group called “The Crosslakers.” The Workshop facilitation and report was developed by Blue Zones.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/jybm7j2fy7htp7a/BlueZonesBE_PPT_Report_GLAR.pdf?dl=0C
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041
1 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: 2018
Implementation details:
The Connectivity Committee of the Crosslakers completed the Crosslake Beautification Flower Planter Project which included fastening flower baskets onto two County bridges. Solar panels were installed to water the flowers automatically. 5-14-18
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041

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: 2017
Implementation details:
The city of Crosslake is a member and supporter of the Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway Association a non-profit organization that promotes, preserves and enhances area amenities available to all the public to enjoy. The Paul Bunyan Byway Association provides a website including a route map of thirteen interpretive kiosk sites, miles of walking and biking trails (8 ft shoulders) and bikeways (6-8 ft shoulders), and access to lakes, brooks and rivers including historic Whitefish Chain of Lakes and the Pine River.
A bike rental station is available in the heart of Crosslake. With the Pay-Per-Use bike share system, Riders use the free smartphone App to locate the bike station. Once at the station, they select a bike and use the App to access the bike. Information on roads and trails is provided.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041

Environmental Management Environmental Management

Stormwater Management {BP no.17}

3 star - Action 1:

Adopt and use Minnesota's Minimal Impact Design Standards (MIDS).

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2018
Implementation details:
Sec. 26-4 Authority and Incorporation by Reference of Statutes, Rules, and References of the Land Ordinance (Chapter 26) revised 10-16-18 includes inclusion of the Crow Wing County Local Comprehensive Water Management Plan and the “Minnesota Stormwater Manual”, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (2005).
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041
2 star - Action 3:

Adopt by ordinance one or more of the following stormwater infiltration/management strategies to reduce impervious surface:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2018
Implementation details:
Stormwater Best Management Practices provided in addition to Section 20 of Chapter 26 of the Land Use Ordinance for Stormwater Management.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.cityofcrosslake.org/vertical/sites/%7BFEA8DD90-54F2-4E30-BF15-72B67E6DC206%7D/uploads/Stormwater_BMPs_factsheet_CL_3-27-14.pdf
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041

Parks and Trails {BP no.18}

1 star - Action 1:

Make improvements within your city's system of parks, offroad trails and open spaces.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2018
Implementation details:
The purchase of 9.01 acres adjacent to the western side of the current city park was approved by the city council. This allows for extension of current trails. 4-23-18
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041
1 star - Action 5:

Create park/city land management standards/practices that maximize at least one of the following:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2017
Implementation details:
The Linda Ulland Memorial Gardens just outside the Crosslake Campground was created to be an environmental, educational and natural destination for all ages. The gardens are divided into several sections, each with different environmental themes and educational aspects. They include areas of deer-resistant plantings, forest foraging gardens to show the woods' bounty, butterfly gardens, a rain garden, a house garden and Paul Bunyan's footprints. The house garden will have houses for all sorts of wildlife placed in the garden, including houses for bees, bats, toads, beneficial insects, and much more. May, 2017
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041

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: 2012
Implementation details:
Land & Waters Preservation Trust was created in 2012 as a joint partnership of the Whitefish Area Property Owners Association (WAPOA) and the Pine River Watershed Alliance (PRWA) and is a Turn Key Fund of the Initiative Foundation. The Land & Waters Preservation Trust is a grant making endowment fund directed to preserving and protecting the water quality including the lakes in the Crosslake area. Annual grants are given with the support of donations and matching funds.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041
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: 2018
Implementation details:
Preserving the natural environment of shorelands is a listed purpose of the City of Crosslake Code of Ordinances Chapter 26 Land Use effective 10-14-14 and revised 10-16-18.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041

Efficient Water and Wastewater Systems {BP no.20}

1 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: 2018
Implementation details:
Citywide Wastewater Management Study
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.cityofcrosslake.org/vertical/sites/%7BFEA8DD90-54F2-4E30-BF15-72B67E6DC206%7D/uploads/Citywide_Sewer_Study.pdf
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041
1 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: 2017
Implementation details:
City of Crosslake Wastewater Treatment Project
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://clients.bolton-menk.com/crosslakewwtp/
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041

Sustainable Consumption and Waste {BP no.22}

1 star - Action 7:

Improve/organize residential trash, recycling and organics collection by private and/or public operations and offer significant volume-based pricing on residential garbage and/or incentives for recycling.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Information included on the City of Crosslake website.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.cityofcrosslake.org/vertical/sites/%7BFEA8DD90-54F2-4E30-BF15-72B67E6DC206%7D/uploads/CROSSLAKE_RECYCLING_DROP_OFF_SITE.pdf
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041

Resilient Economic & Community Development Resilient Economic and Community Development

Benchmarks and Community Engagement {BP no.24}

2 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: 2018
Implementation details:
A committee comprised of members and volunteers of the Crosslake Economic Development Authority was created to engage in the execution of and identification of GreenStep best practices.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041
1 star - Action 6:

Engaging the Next Generation: Engage wide representation of community youth and college students by creating opportunities to participate in city government (including commissions).

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2017
Implementation details:
Students from the Crosslake Community School were encouraged to write an essay entitled "If I Were Mayor for a Day". The students were invited to the monthly city council meeting where they read their essay and were presented with Friends of the City certificates. November 2017-January 2018.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041

Green Business Development {BP no.25}

1 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: 2015
Implementation details:
Participation in a shop local campaign has been integral in creating community spirit. The Crosslake Chamber of Commerce highlights local businesses and the impact of shopping locally. As a member of the Lakes PROUD collaboration, Crosslake Chamber promotes shopping, buying and supporting businesses throughout the Lakes region. It makes a difference in the regional economy by pausing before the purchase and making a conscious effort to support local and regional business.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
The Lakes Proud campaign continues to promote shopping locally.
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
https://lakesproud.com/
The Brainerd Lakes, Pequot Lakes, Cuyuna Lakes, and Nisswa Chambers of Commerce
For more information contact:
Patty Norgaard (Community Volunteer) | pattynorgaard@crosslake.net | 218-692-5370

Local Food {BP no.27}

2 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:
Implementation details:
A farmer’s market is open every Wednesday during the growing season from 9AM to 1PM. The market features a vast assortment of plants, vegetables, herbs, cut flowers in season as well as farm prepared fresh bread and jams and jellies. All locally produced. The farmers market is located in the Town Square in Crosslake.
A community garden with 60 plots is located next to the community center and is overseen by the City of Crosslake.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041