City Detail

Background Information

City of Detroit Lakes
County: Becker
Population: 9,409
GreenStep City category: B
Full-time equivalent city staff (approx.): 85
Participating township, county, school:

GreenStep Coordinator

Kelcey Klemm
City Staff
kklemm@cityofdetroitlakes.com
2188475658
City web page relating to sustainability/GreenStep activities:
https://cityofdetroitlakes.com/
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: 46
1 star actions: 22
2 star actions: 17
3 star actions: 4

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: 2020
Implementation details:
The City of Detroit Lakes Public Utility is currently installing Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) city wide. All buildings will be monitored on a meter data management system for electric and water usage (this is a city-wide initiative, every customer of the Utility will be monitored) . Leak detection reports and high electric usage reports are sent to staff daily. Once fully implemented, this data can be transferred to the B3 Benchmarking site. Currently, staff utilizes Yukon infrastructure monitoring system.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133
3 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: 2020
Implementation details:
The City of Detroit Lakes routinely audits our existing buildings for energy efficiency improvements. The Detroit Lakes Community and Cultural Center recently completed a major $1.8M energy conservation project to improve retrofit lighting and insulation. This included the installation of all DLC listed LEDs, which qualified for energy rebates through the Public Utility. The Detroit Lakes City Hall, Sports Arena, Parks Department, Electric Department, and Fire Department have improved lighting and insulation in recent years. These buildings have all installed DLC listed LEDs, which qualified for LED retrofit rebates through the Public Utility. The Detroit Lakes School District has replaced all lighting in each school building with DLC listed LEDs. All of the school buildings will receive an energy efficiency rebate through the Public Utility.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Kelcey Klemm (City Staff) | kklemm@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 2188475658

Efficient Existing Private Buildings {BP no.2}

1 star - Action 1:

Create or participate in a marketing/outreach/incentive program to promote/achieve residential energy/water use reduction and energy efficiency.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Detroit Lakes Public Utilities offers various rebates and opportunities for energy efficient improvements through the Bright Energy Solutions program.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133

New Green Buildings {BP no.3}

1 star - Action 5:

Adopt environmentally preferable covenant guidelines for new common interest communities addressing issues such as stormwater, greywater, native vegetation, growing food, clothes lines, electric vehicle charging, and renewable energy.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City of Detroit Lakes is a regulated MS4 permittee, which requires an in-depth SWPP (Storm Water Prevention Plan). The MS4 permit requires annual reporting and best practice implementation. The City of Detroit Lakes issues Land Disturbance Permits and inspects related activities within the City limits to ensure compliance to stormwater rules and requirements. The City is regulated by the Pelican River Watershed District, which also regulates stormwater runoff.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Kelcey Klemm (City Staff) | kklemm@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 2188475658

Efficient Outdoor Lighting and Signals {BP no.4}

1 star - Action 6:

Relamp/improve exterior building lighting for city-owned buildings/facilities with energy efficient, Dark-Sky compliant lighting.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
Light fixtures at our new Police Department are all LED and dark sky compliant. We also purchased all new outdoor Christmas decorations that are LED energy efficient.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133
1 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:
The City of Detroit Lakes is currently switching out to LED street lights and traffic signals. In new developments and as old street lights are replaced, LEDs are installed.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133

Building Redevelopment {BP no.5}

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: 2020
Implementation details:
Our old K-Mart building has been restored and redeveloped for a new Boys and Girls Club Thrift Store. In the large parking lot, we are developing an Aldi's grocery store. It will be completed this fall. One the lower level of McKinley Plaza, we have a new fitness center, Snap Fitness.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133
1 star - Action 5:

Adopt development/design standards and programs that facilitate infill, redevelopment, and adaptable buildings.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City of Detroit Lakes utilizes Redevelopment Tax Increment Financing districts to utilize investment and redevelopment of existing buildings. The Detroit Lakes Development Authority also utilizes a revolving loan fund to assist businesses in development and re purposing of existing buildings. The City also utilizes the Facade Improvement Grant Program.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Kelcey Klemm (City Staff) | kklemm@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 2188475658

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: 2000
Implementation details:
The Detroit Lakes Comprehensive Plan was originally adopted in 2000 and amended most recently in 2018. A comprehensive future land use update was completed in 2018 that included an analysis of existing land uses, projections of future population, and projection of future land use needs.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Kelcey Klemm (City Staff) | kklemm@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 2188475658
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: 2020
Implementation details:
Subd. 3 Relation to Comprehensive Municipal Plan under the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Detroit Lakes, states the following: It is the policy of the
City of Detroit Lakes that the enforcement, amendment, and administration of this ordinance be accomplished with due consideration of the recommendations contained in the comprehensive municipal plan as developed and amended from time to time by the Planning Commission and City Council of the City. The Council recognizes the Comprehensive Municipal Plan, as the policy for responsibility to regulate land use and
development in accordance with the policies and purpose herein set forth.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://cityofdetroitlakes.com/vertical/Sites/%7BF991A069-E23D-412C-8132-49318B273050%7D/uploads/Zoning_Ordinance_with_Links.pdf
For more information contact:
Kelcey Klemm (City Staff) | kklemm@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 2188475658
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: 2021
Implementation details:
The City has adopted a Wellhead Protection Plan
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133

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: 2020
Implementation details:
The Central Business Zoning District allows zero setbacks.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133

Mixed Uses {BP no.8}

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: 2020
Implementation details:
Central Business Zoning District allows residential units located above commercial establishments.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133
1 star - Action 7:

Create incentives for vertical mixed-use development in appropriate locations (downtown, commercial districts near colleges or universities, historic commercial districts, commercial districts with minority-owned businesses).

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2019
Implementation details:
The City of Detroit Lakes has recently completed several mixed use projects within the downtown area. In 2016, McKinley Plaza was constructed; the building includes retail locations and apartments. In 2019, Norby's Flats were renovated from the old Norby's department store into several businesses and the Midtown development began construction. We now have apartments above the commercial development.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Kelcey Klemm (City Staff) | kklemm@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 2188475658

Transportation Transportation

Living & Complete Streets {BP no.11}

2 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: 2020
Implementation details:
The Master Trail Plan located in our 5-year CIP identifies gaps and prospective projects.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133
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: 2021
Implementation details:
We constructed 2 roundabouts in Washington Avenue project and reduced the lane size.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133

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: 2020
Implementation details:
We have received the Bronze Bike Friendly Community certificate.

The City has added 2 bike fix stations, one located at the Pavilion and the other at the Detroit Lakes overlook.

The City of Detroit Lakes Parks and Recreation website promotes several walking and biking trails, as well as picnic shelters. Three separate maps are posted on the website.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://cityofdetroitlakes.com/parksrec
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133

Efficient City Fleets {BP no.13}

2 star - Action 3:

Phase-in operational changes, equipment changes including electric vehicles, and no-idling practices for city or local transit fleets.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
The City of Detroit Lakes Public Utilities will be purchasing an electric vehicle for its smaller fleet vehicle.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133
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: 2020
Implementation details:
Our Police Department has2 bikes they use for patrol.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133

Environmental Management Environmental Management

Community Forests and Soils {BP no.16}

2 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:
The City of Detroit Lakes became a Tree City USA participant in 1988. The planting of trees is an annually budgeted item.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Kelcey Klemm (City Staff) | kklemm@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 2188475658
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: Yearly
Implementation details:
A. Having trained tree specialists

We currently have 2 trained Arborists on staff. They attend yearly training.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://d1keuthy5s86c8.cloudfront.net/static/ems/upload/files/embed_agenda_mstsc_202203_pajpw.pdf
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133
1 star - Action 7:

Conduct a tree inventory or canopy study for public and private trees.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
We received an EAB grant for inventory of trees. This is in progress.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133

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: 2021
Implementation details:
The City uses MIDS in our storm water management ordinance (1007)
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Kelcey Klemm (City Staff) | kklemm@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 2188475658
2 star - Action 4:

Create a stormwater utility that uses variable fees to incentivize stormwater infiltration, minimize the volume of and pollutants in runoff, and educate property owners and renters on the importance of managing stormwater runoff.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
Detroit Lakes has a stormwater utility and it gives credit for properties with infiltration.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133

Parks and Trails {BP no.18}

2 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:
Implementation details:
The City of Detroit Lakes has an approved Master Trails Plan and Parks Strategic Plan. The City's Subdivision Ordinance also requires the dedication of 6% of undeveloped land at the time of platting.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Kelcey Klemm (City Staff) | kklemm@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 2188475658

Surface Water {BP no.19}

1 star - Action 1:

Consistently monitor surface water quality/clarity and report findings to community members.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
PRWD does annual lake monitoring, including clarity and reports it to the public and LIDs.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Kelcey Klemm (City Staff) | kklemm@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 2188475658
2 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:
The City of Detroit Lakes adopted a Shoreland Ordinance in 2019. This ordinance promotes the preservation of sensitive natural areas and ensures the conservation of critical natural systems.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Kelcey Klemm (City Staff) | kklemm@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 2188475658
1 star - Action 5:

Adopt goals to revegetate shoreland and create a local program or outreach effort to help property owners with revegetation.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
PRWD has a grant program for shoreline revegetation
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Kelcey Klemm (City Staff) | kklemm@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 2188475658
1 star - Action 6:

Implement an existing TMDL implementation plan.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
Detroit Lakes is in the midst of implementing the St. Clair Lake TMDL. We have a new $35 Million wastewater treatment plant, new MS4 permit that requires benchmarks to meet TMDL.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Kelcey Klemm (City Staff) | kklemm@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 2188475658

Efficient Water and Wastewater Systems {BP no.20}

1 star - Action 4:

Optimize energy and chemical use at drinking water/wastewater facilities and decrease chloride in wastewater discharges.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
We have a chloride reduction implementation plan.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133
2 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: 2020
Implementation details:
The City of Detroit Lakes has a new Wastewater facility that produces high quality discharge water to preserve water quality in a vast region of Western Minnesota. Our facility will preserve water quality, excellent recreational activities, and protect downstream watersheds for years to come. We have reuse capabilities at our new wastewater treatment plant. We also work with local farmers for distribution of our bio-solids to their fields.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133
1 star - Action 7:

Create a demand-side pricing program to reduce demands on water and wastewater systems.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
We have an increased rate for water usage over 20 units
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133

Sustainable Consumption and Waste {BP no.22}

2 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:
By ordinance, the City of Detroit Lakes requires garbage haulers to provide curbside recycling and waste removal. Curbside recycling evolved in 2017 to single-stream recycling to improve participation and collected tonnage.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Kelcey Klemm (City Staff) | kklemm@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 2188475658

Local Air Quality {BP no.23}

1 star - Action 5:

Install, assist with and promote publicly available EV charging stations or public fueling stations for alternative fuel vehicles. 

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2020
Implementation details:
With the help of the MPCA grant money, ZEF energy has installed a publicly available Electric Vehicle Charging Station.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
ZEF Energy
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133

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: 2021
Implementation details:
We have a Green Step Cities citizen committee
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Kelcey Klemm (City Staff) | kklemm@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 2188475658
2 star - Action 4:

Public Education for Action: Conduct or support a broad sustainability education and action campaign, building on existing community relationships, networks & events involving:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2022
Implementation details:
The City hosts and annual water festival every year that provides education to all. The Pelican River Water Shed hosts yearly Education out at Sucker Creek.

The City of Detroit Lakes and Public Utilities hosted an Electric Vehicle Ride and Drive event located at First Lutheran Church. We worked with the West Climate Action and the Izaak Walton League. We also brought in multiple electric companies in our region, as well as CERTS. We had Meteorologist Paul Douglas speak. Becker County Sustainability group was also in attendance to cover reuse and sustainability efforts in our county. This is planned to be an annual event.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Kelcey Klemm (City Staff) | kklemm@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 2188475658
2 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: 2019
Implementation details:
Detroit Lakes Public Utilities works with the local school system on a variety of efforts; including, reading books to young students pertaining to electrical safety, what it is like to be a tree trimmer and lineman, scholarship opportunities for seniors and an apprenticeship for a student going to school to become a lineman. The City also offers summer internships.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133

Green Business Development {BP no.25}

2 star - Action 2:

Create or participate in a marketing/outreach program to connect businesses with assistance providers, including utilities, who provide personalized energy, waste or sustainability audits and assistance.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Detroit Lakes Public Utilities and the Energy Services Specialist meet with major local businesses twice per year to encourage energy conservation and to promote new programs.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133
2 star - Action 3:

Promote sustainable tourism in your city, and green tourism resources to tourism and hospitality businesses in/around the city.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
Each Year the Detroit Lakes Tourism Bureau hosts and annual Bird Festival in May. The focus is birds, wildlife and the environment.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://visitdetroitlakes.com/event/festival-of-birds-in-detroit-lakes-minnesota/
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133
Not rated - Action 5:

Lower the environmental and health risk footprint of a brownfield remediation/redevelopment project beyond regulatory requirements; report brightfield projects.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
With the new wastewater treatment facility up and running, the old wastewater ponds have been decommissioned.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133

Renewable Energy {BP no.26}

2 star - Action 2:

Promote resident/business purchases and/or generation of clean energy by:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2020
Implementation details:
The City of Detroit Lakes Public Utility offers a program for all customers to be 100% carbon-free. Bright Energy Choices is a “green energy” program that allows your customers to purchase renewable attributes from your utility in the form of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). RECs are proof that electricity was generated by qualifying renewable facilities – like wind and solar farms – and fed into the electric grid. This program is promoted through social media, newspaper outlets and visitor guides.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133
3 star - Action 4:

Support a community solar garden or help community members participate in a community solar project by:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Starting in 2017, Detroit Lakes Public Utilities offers participation in a community solar garden. The City owned, operated, and maintained solar panels make it easy for businesses and residents to purchase renewable energy generation. In January of 2020, Detroit Lakes Public Utilities will offer 100% renewable energy purchases through its Bright Energy Choices program.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133
1 star - Action 5:

Install a public sector/municipally-owned renewable energy technology, such as solar electric (PV), wind, biomass, solar hot water/air, or micro-hydro.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
The Becker County EDA has a private solar array on our electric system.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133

Local Food {BP no.27}

1 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:
The City of Detroit Lakes participates in local efforts including Becker County Energize and Manna Food Co-op to promote and provide local healthy food access.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://mannafoodcoop.com/
For more information contact:
Kelcey Klemm (City Staff) | kklemm@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 2188475658

Climate Adaptation and Community Resilience {BP no.29}

Not rated - 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: 2021
Implementation details:
The City and County have adopted an All Hazard Mitigation Plan
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Kelcey Klemm (City Staff) | kklemm@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 2188475658
Not rated - Action 7:

Protect water supply and wastewater treatment facilities to reduce physical damage and sustain their function during extreme weather events.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2019
Implementation details:
The Detroit Lakes Public Utility has a Wellhead Protection Plan in place.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133