City Detail

Background Information

City of Inver Grove Heights
County: Dakota
Population: 34000
GreenStep City category: A
Full-time equivalent city staff (approx.): 145
Participating township, county, school:

GreenStep Coordinator

Ally Sutherland
City Staff
asutherland@invergroveheights.org
651-604-8511
City web page relating to sustainability/GreenStep activities:
www.invergroveheights.org
GreenStep City resolution: Click here to view the file.
GreenStep City status and date: STEP 5 ( )

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
2020 - click to view assessment
Metrics Files
2024 - click to view metrics file
2023 - click to view metrics file

Best Practice Actions Underway and Completed

Completed actions are denoted by stars.

Total completed actions: 48
1 star actions: 15
2 star actions: 21
3 star actions: 12

Buildings and Lighting Buildings and Lighting

Efficient Existing Public Buildings {BP no.1}

2 star - Action 1:

Enter/update building information into the MN B3 Benchmarking database, and routinely enter monthly usage data for all city-owned buildings/infrastructure that consume energy/water.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2017
Implementation details:
Energy usage data is entered on the B3 database for all city buildings. The data includes monthly energy usage from 2014 (and earlier for several buildings) to the present month.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
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: 2012
Implementation details:
In 2012, the City of Inver Grove Heights remodeled the City Hall. During this renovation, a white thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) roof designed to reduce cooling and heating costs was added to the building. Additionally, approximately 130 motion censored lights were installed in City Hall during the renovation. In 2017, Inver Grove Heights replaced approximately 12 lighting fixtures with LED bulbs and fixtures at the Veterans Memorial Community Center.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
3 star - Action 7:

Install for one or more city-owned/school buildings one of the following efficiency measures:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2012
Implementation details:
A ground-source, closed loop geothermal system was installed in City Hall in 2012. In 2016, solar panels (capacity of 796,000 kWh) were installed on the roof of City Hall and the Veteran's Memorial Community Center to supply energy to these buildings.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511

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: 2019
Implementation details:
To promote residential energy and water use reduction and energy efficiency, the City of Inver Grove Heights shares residential assistance and rebate programs on the City’s website. This information directs residents to various resources including rebate and reward programs provided by utility providers, Energy Smart appliance rebate opportunities, and energy and cost savings calculators developed by Energy Smart and the U.S. Department of Energy. The City also shares water conservation strategies on an annual basis in the Insights Newsletter, the Annual Water Quality Report and on the City's website.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://invergroveheights.org/924/Residential-Assistance-Providers
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
1 star - Action 5:

Conserve/protect drinking/groundwater resources by creating a water-wise landscaping ordinance/guidance, WaterSense purchasing program, or guidance on rainwater harvesting and home water softener use.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2010
Implementation details:
The City of Inver Grove Heights shares water conservation strategies on an annual basis in the Insights Newsletter and the Annual Water Quality Report. This includes information regarding lawn watering best practices and workshop opportunities focused on landscaping for clean water. The City has adopting a watering ordinance that restricts lawn watering to specific times and dates of the week to promote water conservation. This information is promoted on the City website and in the Annual Water Quality Report. The City website promoted additional information on water conservation strategies including rain barrels, rain gardens and watersense purchasing.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.inver-grove-heights.mn.us/914/Environment-Natural-Resources
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511

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: 2008
Implementation details:
The City of Inver Grove Heights has adopted a Northwest Area Zoning Ordinance (2008) that promotes Low Impact Development (LID), or green infrastructure, in Northwest Area development projects. This requires at least 20% of a PUD to be preserved as open space/natural areas, and at least 50% of the required natural area should be kept in a natural state with native vegetation. The City of Inver Grove Heights has also adopted a Vertical Access Wind Turbine Ordinance (2013), allowing wind turbines in specified zoning districts.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511

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: 2010
Implementation details:
The 2030 Comprehensive Plan is the officially adopted long range plan that describes the community’s vision for the future. It includes a series of plans, goal, policies, and implementation strategies for a wide range of topics, including: land use, transportation, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, municipal water, housing, parks, and environmental protection. Sustainability goals and strategies are discussed throughout the comprehensive plan.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
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: 2002
Implementation details:
City of Inver Grove Heights Zoning Ordinance states that the ordinance is adopted for the purpose of "implementing the policies and goals of the city comprehensive plan". (City code: 10-1-2: I)
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
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: 2010
Implementation details:
Our 2030 Comprehensive Plan includes requirements for intergovernmental coordination with state and local agencies on issues such as; planning, air quality and ground water monitoring, emergency management, solid waste management, environmental protection, transportation, and land use.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
3 star - Action 4:

Include ecological provisions in the comprehensive plan that explicitly aim to minimize open space fragmentation and/or establish a growth area with expansion criteria.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2010
Implementation details:
The 2030 Comprehensive Plan (2010) promotes Low Impact Development (LID) in the Northwest Area. As development continues in this area, the Comprehensive Plan states that opportunities for expanding open space areas should be explored and that open space preservation is needed to protect existing natural resources identified and prioritized in the Northwest Area’s NRI (2003). The Northwest Area Ordinance (2008) requires at least 20% of a PUD to be preserved as open space/natural areas, and at least 75% of this open space area to be contiguous. Additional, at least 50% of the PUD’s required natural area should be kept in a natural state with native vegetation.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511

Resilient City Growth {BP no.7}

2 star - Action 2:

Achieve higher density housing through at least two of the following strategies:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2002
Implementation details:
The City of Inver Grove Heights regular Zoning Ordinance (2002) allows for accessory dwelling units in single-family zoning districts throughout the city. Our Northwest Area Ordinance (2007) allows for increased density and approves development on substandard lots through flexible frontage and lots sizes.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511

Mixed Uses {BP no.8}

2 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: 2012
Implementation details:
The historic Concord Boulevard Neighborhood in Inver Grove Heights has experienced significant public investments in recent years. The City of Inver Grove Heights now hopes to use these improvements and amenities to encourage new residential and commercial development to improve the existing residential neighborhood, strengthen and increase commercial activities, increase property values, and provide additional employment opportunities. To initiate this private investment, the City has completed the Concord Boulevard Neighborhood Plan. Many groups such as elected and appointed officials, business owners and managers, neighborhood and community at large, city staff, Dakota CDA, Progress Plus, and South St. Paul were consulted in developing this plan during two stakeholder meetings. During these meetings, stakeholders presented their future vision of the corridor and provided input on a preferred plan.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.invergroveheights.org/index.aspx?NID=521
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
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: 1998
Implementation details:
The Veterans Memorial Community Center and City Hall are located on one city property. This City property, Simley Highschool and the Inver Hills Community College have access to sidewalks and trails to facilitate and encourage walking and biking. Inver Hills Community College, Simley Highschool, and the Library are also accessible by the MetroTransit bus service.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:

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

3 star - Action 1:

Establish design goals for at least one highway/auto-oriented corridor/cluster.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2010
Implementation details:
In 2010, the Northwest Area Collector Road Study incorporated community feedback to outline where major roads would be within this area. The community was involved through the mail, local newspaper, city newsletter, special meetings, and public hearings.

The City of Inver Grove Heights requires new developments to adhere to the goals and designs of the City code. The head engineer and planner at the City meet one on one with the developers and share a packet of information regarding the city codes requirements.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511

Design for Natural Resource Conservation {BP no.10}

3 star - Action 1:

Conduct a Natural Resource Inventory or Assessment (NRI or NRA); incorporate protection of priority natural systems or resources such as groundwater through the subdivision or development process.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2008
Implementation details:
The Northwest Area Ordinance (2008) Ordinance states priority areas noted in the NRI (2003) should be consider when designating open space in a PUD. The Ordinance requires at least 20% of the PUD to be preserved for open space, of which 75% should be contiguous. It also required 50% of the open space to kept in a natural state with native vegetation.

The city-wide Stormwater Ordinance (2016) meets MS4 permit requirements. This requires infiltration of 1.0 inches for new developments in residential and commercial zones, and 3.6 inches in the Northwest Area. The City of Inver Grove Heights won the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) National Grand Award for accomplishing the City's zero runoff development goal in the Northwest Area (2015).

The City of Inver Grove Heights also enforces the MnDOT standard for bridge inspections to protect forest bats, and the 1991 Wetland Conservation Act to protect groundwater and natural resources.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
1 star - Action 3:

For cities within metropolitan areas, incorporate woodland best management practices addressing protection of wooded areas into zoning or development review.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2007
Implementation details:
The City code states that land alterations should maximum the amount of woodland preserved city-wide. Preliminary plat submissions are also required to identify trees by species, diameter, and condition. Woodland removal thresholds are set for all zoning districts. If developers remove more trees than the allowed threshold, they are required to plant new trees based on the City's reforestation standards (2007).

The Northwest Area's NRI identifies, classifies, and prioritizes protection of natural resources including woodland areas. The Northwest Area Ordinance (2008) and storm water erosion control plans protect woodland, wetlands, and storm basins by limiting disturbance based on the ordinary high water mark of public water.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511

Transportation Transportation

Living & Complete Streets {BP no.11}

1 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: 2010
Implementation details:
The 2030 Inver Grove Heights Comprehensive Plan reflects the planning period of 2010 – 2030. This document, “looks to the future and prescribes a plan and implementation strategy that is intended to provide guidance for decision making for the next 10 to 20 years”. Transportation planning is discussed throughout multiple sections, which are highlighted in the documentation below. Chapter 2: Land Use, states that Community Commercial Area Policies, “Ensure pedestrian connectivity via trails and sidewalks within community commercial districts as well as to adjacent and nearby neighborhoods”. Chapter 5: Transportation, states a goal of the transportation plan is to, “Provide a transportation system that supports multi-modal transportation whenever and wherever feasible and advantageous. Chapter 6: Parks and Recreation, is lists several key elements from the 2008 Comprehensive Park Plan and Development Guide that are used to guide the implementation and development of the Inver Grove Heights Park and Recreation System, one being, “Enhancing trail and bikeway connectivity”. This section identifies that, “A complete and connected trail system of trails and bikeways is highly valued by residents for leisure use and for transportation” and also states a goal of Inver Grove Heights trail system is to, “Promote safe, convenient and coordinated facilities for alternative means of transportation throughout the City of Inver Grove Heights”.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.ci.inver-grove-heights.mn.us/DocumentCenter/View/94
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
2 star - Action 5:

Identify and remedy street-trail gaps between city streets and off-road trails/bike trails to better facilitate walking and biking.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2011
Implementation details:
The City of Inver Grove Heights received SHIP funding to complete a Trail Gaps Study (2011). This study highlighted areas that lack trail connectivity between trails and sidewalks. Since this study, the City of Inver Grove Heights has eliminated multiple gaps highlighted by the study. The study is reviewed on a regular basis by engineering and parks and recreation departments during redevelopment, development, and street reconstruction projects.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
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: 2009
Implementation details:
Inver Grove Heights constructed a roundabout in 2009. The City of Inver Grove Heights has been working with the MnDOT and Dakota County to construct a second roundabout. The preliminary layout was approved in January 2017 and construction is planned to start in Spring 2018.

Streetscaping was implemented in the design of Cahill Road, a highly utilized road with the City. A raised cross walk was implemented outside of Gertens to increase safety for pedestrians. The City of Inver Grove Heights also promotes development of medians and narrower streets to developers.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511

Mobility Options {BP no.12}

2 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: 2008
Implementation details:
The City of Inver Grove Heights has produced a printed map of trails and park facilities (2008). Signage was implemented at just under 30 park facilities through a Wayfinding Project (2012). These park facilities have an in-person wayfinding map at the park entrance that corresponds to information on the City's printed map.

In 2015, a bike fix-it station and bike racks were installed at Swing Bridge Park Trailhead, which is situated on the Mississippi Regional River Trail. Over 14,000 feet of regional trail have been created within the City's Northwest Area.

A Trail Gaps Study was completed in 2011 with SHIP funding. This study highlighted areas that lack trail connectivity between trails and sidewalks. The study is reviewed on a regular basis by engineering and parks and recreation departments during redevelopment, development, and street reconstruction projects, and has been used to eliminated multiple trail gaps.

Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
2 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: 2011
Implementation details:
The City of Inver Grove Heights has a workout facility at the City Community Center (VMCC) that allows residents to utilize insurance membership discounts. The VMCC also offers several programs to encourage residents 55+ to be active. The City of Inver Grove Heights also partners with school districts to offer residents the opportunity to walk inside schools after business hours.

At just under 30 park facilities, signage was implemented through a Wayfinding Project (2012) to facilitate navigation throughout the cities parks and trails. These park facilities have an in-person wayfinding map at the park entrance that corresponds to information on the City's printed trail and park facilities map.

In 2011, a Trail Gaps Study was completed that highlighted connectivity gaps between trails and sidewalks. The study is reviewed on a regular basis by engineering and parks and recreation departments during redevelopment, development, and street reconstruction projects. This has been used to eliminated multiple trail gaps.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511

Environmental Management Environmental Management

Sustainable Purchasing {BP no.15}

2 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: 2019
Implementation details:
A draft IGH Sustainable Purchasing Policy was developed in February 2019 and is supported by the Environmental Commission and will be reviewed by City Council in Spring 2019. A Sustainable Workplace Guide has been created to educate staff on how to conserve natural resources, reduce waste and reduce energy. This is intended to support the Sustainable Purchasing Policy, for example, by reducing the amount of paper printed. By reducing paper usage, the City will reduce overall paper costs and reduce the cost difference between non-recyclable paper and recycled paper making it more affordable to purchase (less than 10% difference in cost). The guide also provides education on how to purchase ENERGY STAR equipment. An internal spreadsheet of recycled paper costs vs. non-recyclable paper costs based on paper usage has been created to monitor the difference in costs. This will be used to develop a formal recycled paper budget and monitor reduction in paper usage to support purchase on recycled paper.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
3 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:
A ground-source, closed-loop geothermal system was installed in City Hall in 2012. In 2016, solar panels (capacity of 796,000 kWh) were installed on the roof of City Hall and the Veterans Memorial Community Center to supply energy to these buildings. The City also has 10 community solar contracts. Each contract is estimated to produce approximately 300,000 kWh for a total of 3,000,000 kWh annually.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.inver-grove-heights.mn.us/DocumentCenter/View/4995/Inver-Grove-Heights-Solar-Project-Fact-Sheet?bidId=

Community Forests and Soils {BP no.16}

1 star - Action 5:

Adopt a tree preservation or native landscaping ordinance.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2007
Implementation details:
Our city's zoning ordinance contains a tree preservation standards to promote the maximum possible preservation of woodland during land alterations. Replacement standards in this ordinance require woodlands to be replaced with species in accordance to the zoning districts' requirements. This states that planting diversity and tree disease susceptibility should be considered when choosing replacement tree species. Additionally, our Northwest Area Ordinance encourages landscaping with native vegetation within common areas, while requiring 50% of open space area in PUD to be planted with native vegetation.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
3 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: 2010
Implementation details:
The City of Inver Grove Heights' Parks Superintendent is a certified Arborist.

In 2010, the City adopted a 10 year Emerald Ash Borer Management Plan. This plan states how the City is going to treat Ash trees, which is by removing the Ash trees from public land and right of way areas based on tree condition. The City will replace the removed ash trees within the public land utilizing a tree replacement fund. This fund is generated by developers who pay the City for trees they are unable to replant on their property. No new ash trees are allowed to be plants in public land or right of ways.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511

Stormwater Management {BP no.17}

1 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: 2008
Implementation details:
The City code states that Low Impact Development (LID), or green infrastructure, design concepts will be incorporated into development projects located in the northwest area and in other landlocked basins in the city. In all other parts of the city, LID design concepts must be implemented wherever possible.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
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: 2008
Implementation details:
Our Northwest Area Ordinance (2008) permits construction of 24 foot streets with fewer than 300 average daily trips.

The city-wide Stormwater Ordinance (2016) meets MS4 permit requirements. This requires infiltration of 1.0 inches for new developments in residential and commercial zones, and 3.6 inches in the Northwest Area. The City of Inver Grove Heights won the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) National Grand Award for accomplishing the City's zero runoff development goal in the Northwest Area (2015).

The City of Inver Grove Heights erosion and sediment control ordinance (2016) requires best management practices to limit sediment entering surface waters. The City has also adopted an illicit discharge ordinance that prohibits illicit discharge into the municipal storm water sewer system.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
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: 2015
Implementation details:
The City of Inver Grove Heights adopted a stormwater utility with variable fees in 2015. Property owners are also offered decreased fees based upon percent impervious surface coverage.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
3 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: 2015
Implementation details:
The City of Inver Grove Heights has implemented approximately 60 rain gardens, neighborhood water storage, and rain harvesting for irrigation uses. Implementation
of rain barrels, previous pavement, green roods, cisterns, and stormwater reuse are allowed within the city. Since 2015, the City code requires Atlas 14 precipitation and storm distribution data to be utilized during hydrologic analysis. In all Northwest Area developments, an ongoing retrofit program exists that aims for zero stormwater discharge. The City won the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) National Grand Award for accomplishing the City's zero runoff development goal in the Northwest Area (2015).
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511

Parks and Trails {BP no.18}

3 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: 2011
Implementation details:
The City of Inver Grove Heights received SHIP funding to complete a Trail Gaps Study (2011). This study highlighted areas that lack connectivity between trails and sidewalks. Since this study, the City of Inver Grove Heights has eliminated at least 4 gaps (see attached map - Eliminated Gaps: G-1, H, P, part of R, U) highlighted by the study. The study is reviewed on a regular basis by engineering and parks and recreation departments during redevelopment, development, and street reconstruction projects.

The City of Inver Grove Heights has eliminated connectivity gaps to the Mississippi Regional trail, which leads to other cities such as Rosemount and South St. Paul. Additionally the City is adding local trail segments to connect to the Mendota-Lebanon Hills Greenway, which will connect Lebanon Hills Regional Park to the North Urban Regional Trail.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
2 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: 1995
Implementation details:
Parks in Inver Grove Heights have always been managed by an integrated pest plan. There are also low/no mow areas located throughout the City's park system. Recyclables are collected in the Golf Course and Rich Valley Athletic Complex. All park maintenance staff have received pesticide application licenses. Additionally, the municipal golf course, Inver Wood, and Rich Valley Athletic Complex pump non-treated ground water for irrigation.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
3 star - Action 8:

Develop a program to involve community members in hands-on land restoration, invasive species management and stewardship projects.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 1995
Implementation details:
The City of Inver Grove Heights has an Adopt-A-Park program where community members help clean up litter from a park or trail segment of their choice. Additionally, the City has created volunteer opportunities where community members can volunteer to remove invasive plants and plant native plants to restore natural areas in City parks. The City works with residents and volunteer groups such as tree trust, sentence to serve, and eagle scouts.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511

Surface Water {BP no.19}

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: 1995
Implementation details:
The City of Inver Grove Heights adopted a Shoreline Ordinance for all public waters within the city (City code: 10-13B). This Ordinance is in accordance Minnesota statutes chapter 103F, Minnesota regulations parts 6120.2500 to 6120.3900, and the planning and zoning enabling legislation in Minnesota statutes chapter 462.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511

Efficient Water and Wastewater Systems {BP no.20}

2 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: 2004
Implementation details:
In 1998, the City of Inver Grove Heights built a water treatment plant, which was upgraded in 2004 to increase the water treatment capacity by 2 million gallons to meet the City's demands.

In 2015, the City completed a total SCADA systems upgrade.

The City of Inver Grove Heights plans and budgets for motor maintenance and upgrades to increase the motors' energy efficiency and durability. Annual motor maintenance checks are completed and used to identify where improvements will be made. The City of Inver Grove Heights has 7 wells that are on a 7 year maintenance plan. In this plan, one well is checked each year. This system maintenance schedule allows the City to reduce energy usage and save cost.

Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
3 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: 1995
Implementation details:
We have an annual maintenance program to decrease inflow and infiltration into sewer lines. Annually, the City surveys 70,000 lines to determine which need to be re-lined.

To reduce losses in drinking water systems, we complete a city wide leak detection process that takes about three weeks to complete. This process allows the City to survey for water leaks throughout the City's water pipes and identify areas that need to be fixed. This reduces the City's un-metered water loss. Due to the losses being u-nmetered it is difficult to measure how much is lost through pipe leakage. However, because the City of Inver Grove Heights is able to complete the leakage detection and repair for the entire city on an annual basis, we estimate that the water losses are less than 5%.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
3 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: 2000
Implementation details:
The City of Inver Grove Heights utilizes Xcel Energy's peak control program for the booster station and three of the city's wells. When Xcel experiences a high energy demand, the City can power the wells with our generators to receive a reduced energy rate.

To increase pumping efficiency, the City upgraded the water treatment plant's lift station with the financial assistance through an Xcel rebate. Operating pumps at the booster stations and well house have received annual variable frequency drive upgrades over the last 15 - 20 years.

In 2015, the Department of Health reduced the required concentration of fluoride in drink water. The City of Inver Grove Heights responded by reducing the concentration of fluoride added at the water treatment facility from 1ppm to 0.7ppm, which reduced the City's expenses on water treatment chemicals.

Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511

Sustainable Consumption and Waste {BP no.22}

2 star - Action 4:

Publicize, promote and use the varied businesses/services collecting and marketing used, repaired and rental consumer goods, especially electronics, in the city/county.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2010
Implementation details:
Fix-it Clinics have been held within the City of Inver Grove Heights by Dakota County. The City has promotes these events to city residents, where they can bring in items that need repair. Annually city-wide garage sale is held, where residents are encouraged to host a garage sale on their private property over the same weekend. The City advertises their address on a map created for those interested in attending the garage sale. This event typically occurs a month before the City's annual Clean-Up Day. The City of Inver Grove Heights also hosts a community sale at the Veteran's Memorial Community Center, where residents reserve a table to sell their unwanted items.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511

Local Air Quality {BP no.23}

3 star - Action 2:

Reduce residential burning of wood and yard waste and eliminate ‘backyard’ trash burning.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2010
Implementation details:
The City of Inver Grove Heights adopted an Outdoor Wood Burning Ordinance in 2010 which prohibits the use and operation of outdoor burners/boilers existing before October 2010. The Ordinance also prohibits installation of new outdoor wood burners/boilers. Permits are issued by the Fire Department for recreation burning.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511

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: 2019
Implementation details:
The Environmental Specialist, senior staff and the Environmental Commission coordinate the GreenStep Cities program. An annual report of the City’s program progress will be presented in December to the Environmental Commission and the City Council beginning in 2019. Information about GreenStep Cities is also promoted on the City’s website which also includes a link to the City’s GreenStep Cities progress.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://invergroveheights.org/914/Environment-Natural-Resources
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
2 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: 2019
Implementation details:
The Comprehensive Plan and planning process provides the City background information of where the City is at today in terms of population, employment, housing, land use, transportation, park and natural resources and more, as well as determine what the community’s vision is for these in the future. Additional city-wide plans are created by the City to supplement this document when more specific guidance is needed or required by regulation. These supplemental documents are plans such as the Water Resource Management Plan, Capital Improvement Plan, Parks Plan and more. These plans are located on our website and are summarized in the attached document, which is also available on our website. This document is intended to summarize the purpose of the plans, link to the current status of the plan and provide a staff contact. This will be updated on an annual basis.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.inver-grove-heights.mn.us/914/Environment-Natural-Resources
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511

Green Business Development {BP no.25}

1 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: 2019
Implementation details:
To promote business energy efficiency, and energy, waste and water use reduction the City of Inver Grove Heights shares business assistance and rebate programs on the City’s website. This information directs business to various resources including rebate and reward programs provided by utility providers, Energy Smart appliance rebate opportunities, energy and cost savings calculators developed by Energy Smart and the U.S. Department of Energy, and Dakota County’s business recycling grant and assistance program. The City also shares water conservation strategies on an annual basis in the Annual Water Quality Report.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://invergroveheights.org/925/Business-Assistance-Providers
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
1 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:
Implementation details:
The City of Inver Grove Heights has many sustainable indoor and outdoor recreational opportunities available to residents and visitors. The City and Conventions and Visitors’ Bureau frequently promote green outdoor recreational opportunities within City Parks, trails and scenic natural areas. Outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the City include walking/biking trails, mountain bike trails, dog park, fishing, ice rinks, skateboard park, disc golf, foot golf, tennis and pickleball courts and more. The City continues to expand the 30+ mile trail network available to the community and visitors. The Veterans Memorial Community Center also provides non-residents and community members to indoor recreation programs and activities year-round. The fitness center offers health insurance discounts as well.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.visitigh.com/attraction-category/explore/outdoor-recreation/
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511

Renewable Energy {BP no.26}

1 star - Action 1:

Adopt wind energy and/or biomass ordinances that allow, enable, or encourage appropriate renewable energy installations.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2013
Implementation details:
The City of Inver Grove Heights has also adopted a Vertical Access Wind Turbine Ordinance (2013), allowing wind turbines in specified zoning districts.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511

Local Food {BP no.27}

2 star - Action 2:

Facilitate creation of home/community gardens, chicken & bee keeping, and incorporation of food growing areas/access in multifamily and residential developments.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2012
Implementation details:
The City of Inver Grove Heights allows residents in urban lots to raise chickens as long as appropriate permits are obtained. Development of community gardens and home gardens are permitted in all zoning districts. The City has created a community garden in a municipal park, Salem Park, that contains 20 plots available to residents throughout the city.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
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: 2006
Implementation details:
A farmer's market is held every Sunday from June to October at the Veteran's Memorial Community Center. Any food not sold during the Farmer's Market is donated to a local food shelf. The City of Inver Grove Heights has created a community garden in a municipal park, Salem Park, that contains 20 plots available to residents throughout the city.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511

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: 2017
Implementation details:
The City of Inver Grove Heights has several emergency response plans such as city emergency operation plans and an All-Hazard plan written by the County and adopted by the City. Act of 2000 requires counties and cities to prepare All-Hazard Mitigation Plans every five years. The All-Hazard Mitigation Plan includes a list of buildings that are designated as public shelters in the event of an emergency. We also have TYY and a language phone line that provide additional communications resources. Plans must address potential natural and manmade hazards and develop mitigation strategies to reduce the impacts of hazard events both in dollars and lives saved. The City's first All-Hazard Mitigation Plan was approved by the Minnesota Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in 2006. In 2017, the City has participated in the planning process and developed its own mitigation strategies as part of the multi-jurisdictional plan.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
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: 2010
Implementation details:
The City of Inver Grove Heights participates in Night to Unite, which is focused on in-person community engagement with residents by City Staff. During this event, the City's department heads visit neighborhoods throughout the city to have one-on-one conversations with residents. Staff answer residents' questions and listen to their complains, suggestions, or concerns. Staff also spread news regarding the city's goals and projects. The information collected from the community conversations is used to inform the city's planning of future goals and projects.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
1 star - Action 5:

Protect public buildings and natural/constructed infrastructure 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: 1990
Implementation details:
The City of Inver Grove Heights has an inventory and/or map for the sanitary sewer system, roads, and bridges.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511