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.
City Detail
Background Information
City of Jordan
County: Scott
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
2017 - click to view assessment
Metrics Files
2023 - click to view metrics file
Best Practice Actions Underway and Completed
Completed actions are denoted by stars.
Total completed actions: 36: 22
: 9
: 5
Buildings and Lighting
Efficient Existing Public Buildings {BP no.1}
- Action 1:
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2017
Implementation details:
The City of Jordan has entered all available electricity and natural gas usage since 2015 into Minnesota’s B3 benchmarking software. This will allow a baseline for analysis on building efficiency in the future. The city has several new or newly renovated structures that it will be analyzing for efficiency after they produce enough data to develop a baseline.
There has been no way to catalogue city water usage as the city has not physically read its own meters for water usage. In 2017, Jordan began outfitting of all city structures with meters that can be read electronically at City Hall. That information will be entered into B3 moving forward.
Data will be continually entered by the city’s yearly planning department intern at the direction of Jordan’s city planner.
There has been no way to catalogue city water usage as the city has not physically read its own meters for water usage. In 2017, Jordan began outfitting of all city structures with meters that can be read electronically at City Hall. That information will be entered into B3 moving forward.
Data will be continually entered by the city’s yearly planning department intern at the direction of Jordan’s city planner.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
With new and continued entries into the B3 benchmarking system, a baseline will be established with which to judge Jordan’s municipal building performance from an energy and water use standpoint.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
- Action 2:
Make no/low cost indoor lighting and operational changes in city-owned/school buildings to reduce energy costs.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2016
Implementation details:
2016 saw considerable capital investment in the City of Jordan, with changes at city hall, a renovated police building, and a new city council chambers and city history museum building.
In August 2016, an energy audit was performed by Noble Conservation Solutions to inform lighting improvements for city buildings. At Jordan’s City Hall, entry way lights were switched to LED’s providing more light for less money. Jordan also constructed a brand new City Council Chamber and City History Museum building in the downtown area outfitted with LED lights, energy star rated displays, and a public water bottle filling station. The renovated Police Station required a significant overhaul allowing motion-activated light sensors, LED lighting, increased natural lighting, Energy Star appliances, and a water bottle filling station to be incorporated into the building.
When the Jordan Public Middle School and Community Education and Recreation center was rebuilt in 2015, low-flow plumbing fixtures were used in the new construction. Larger amounts of natural light were allowed inside with more windows. This ended up reducing the amount of water and electricity used even with the addition of more uses. The recently updated Middle School/Community Education and Recreation building uses about the same amount of water as Jordan’s Elementary school.
In addition to new upgrades, continual HVAC and lighting maintenance is performed on city buildings on a monthly basis.
In August 2016, an energy audit was performed by Noble Conservation Solutions to inform lighting improvements for city buildings. At Jordan’s City Hall, entry way lights were switched to LED’s providing more light for less money. Jordan also constructed a brand new City Council Chamber and City History Museum building in the downtown area outfitted with LED lights, energy star rated displays, and a public water bottle filling station. The renovated Police Station required a significant overhaul allowing motion-activated light sensors, LED lighting, increased natural lighting, Energy Star appliances, and a water bottle filling station to be incorporated into the building.
When the Jordan Public Middle School and Community Education and Recreation center was rebuilt in 2015, low-flow plumbing fixtures were used in the new construction. Larger amounts of natural light were allowed inside with more windows. This ended up reducing the amount of water and electricity used even with the addition of more uses. The recently updated Middle School/Community Education and Recreation building uses about the same amount of water as Jordan’s Elementary school.
In addition to new upgrades, continual HVAC and lighting maintenance is performed on city buildings on a monthly basis.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Continued attention will be paid to how the new technology works and how much the city spends on energy through establishing a new baseline on B3 benchmarking software.
Descriptive File:
Jordan Police Department, Jordan Historical Society, Jordan Public Schools
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
New Green Buildings {BP no.3}
- 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.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
City zoning code has design and performance standards that "are designed to prevent and eliminate those conditions which depreciate property values that cause blight or are detrimental to the environment" (Zoning Code 154.126-0). The code also has a section on solar panel requirements (154.394). We also have a dedication section of the code pertaining to Alternative Energy Systems (154.391)
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Through implementing these codes we have seen addition permits for solar panels as well as native plantings in many developments. Most recently our new Community Education Recreation Center has installed over 3 acres of native plantings in the front yard.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Land Use
Comprehensive, Climate and Energy Plans {BP no.6}
- 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.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The city has adopted a 2008 comprehensive plan and is currently beginning the process to update and write its 2018 comprehensive plan.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Municipal Development Group, Inc.-New Prague, MN
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
- 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.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Zoning code (154.035) designates the power of the comprehensive plan saying, "the Council and Planning Commission shall give due regard to the Comprehensive Plan."
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
- 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.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Zoning code section 154.211 requires action from the DNR and FEMA.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
- 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.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The 2008 Comprehensive Plan's purpose section points 2 and 3 address growth and the environment. Also of use are the ecological sites map(2.3) and the future land use map with transportation overlay (6.2).
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Municipal Development Group, Inc.-New Prague, MN
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Resilient City Growth {BP no.7}
- Action 2:
Achieve higher density housing through at least two of the following strategies:
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
We have a PUD overlay Zoning that allows and encourages more density within certain zoing. We also encourage mix use commerical and residential within our C-2 Downtown District with a CUP.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
- Action 3:
Achieve higher intensity commercial/industrial land uses through at least one of the following strategies:
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Under zoning code 154.159: Minor Subdivisions, table C demonstrates that in zone C-2 (Central Business District) there are zero-lot-line setbacks. In addition, lot sizes in the downtown C-2 zone are 2,000 square feet compared to 10,000 square feet in C-1 and 20,000 square feet in C-3.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Mixed Uses {BP no.8}
- 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.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
A community planning/design process has been held for the downtown (C-2 district). The requirement for public hearings is laid out in the comprehensive plan's implementation section VII.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
- 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:
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The required protocols can be observed in the comprehensive plan's public facilities map(9.1).
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
- 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.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The downtown central business district (C-2) allows commercial development with residential living above with a CUP (154.141).
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Efficient Highway- and Auto-Oriented Development {BP no.9}
- Action 1:
Establish design goals for at least one highway/auto-oriented corridor/cluster.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Design goals are listed for the Highway Commercial District (C-3) under zoning code section 154.157. There are also Design Standards for the C-2 Downtown Commercial District
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
- Action 2:
Participate in regional economic development planning with representatives from surrounding townships, cities, the county and business interests to:
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Examples of collaboration include SCALE, the 169 Corridor, as well as First Stop Shop through Scott county. City employees are also members of the Jordan Chamber and the Commercial Club. We are also part of a Joint Powers Committee between the School District and the City of Jordan.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Design for Natural Resource Conservation {BP no.10}
- Action 2:
For cities outside or on the fringe of metropolitan areas, conduct a build-out analysis, fiscal impact study, or adopt an urban growth boundary and a consistent capital improvement plan that provides long-term protection of natural resources and natural systems, and agricultural practices outside the boundary.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2008
Implementation details:
Jordan's Comprehensive Plan was last updated in 2008. This update included an urban growth boundary for use until at least 2030. The land use chapter also included focus areas for conservation in each future district. Additionally, Scott County’s 2030 Conservation Corridors and Areas map was consulted to highlight natural areas in need of conservation.
In 2017, Jordan city staff will continue working to update the comprehensive plan through analysis and public engagement. Additional information on housing, growth trends, and conservation needs will help the city adjust its urban growth boundary.
In 2017, Jordan city staff will continue working to update the comprehensive plan through analysis and public engagement. Additional information on housing, growth trends, and conservation needs will help the city adjust its urban growth boundary.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
Scott County
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
- Action 3:
For cities within metropolitan areas, incorporate woodland best management practices addressing protection of wooded areas into zoning or development review.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The zoning code 154.11(M) addresses woodland preservation.
http://jordanmn.gov/city-government/city-code/
http://jordanmn.gov/city-government/city-code/
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Transportation
Mobility Options {BP no.12}
- Action 1:
Increase walking, biking and transit use by one or more of the following means:
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The tourism section on the city's website has a downtown walking tour map which lists historic sites and businesses. It also has a map showing the parks in the city. We have also attached the Parks Chapter of our current Comp Plan the highlights out walking and biking trails.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
- Action 2:
Conduct an Active Living campaign such as a Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City recieved a Safe Routes to School fund in 2014. We were able to complete many projects throughout town from the project. Attached is a memo to the City Council that highlights one of the major projects we were able to complete.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Environmental Management
Sustainable Purchasing {BP no.15}
- Action 1:
Adopt a sustainable purchasing policy or administrative guidelines/practices directing that the city purchase at least:
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2017
Implementation details:
A memorandum was sent to all city staff, the City Council, and City Commissions formalizing an administrative policy regarding purchasing appliances and supplies. Future purchases of all city office appliances and supplies will be energy star rated or at least 30% post-consumer recycled paper respectively. City staff are also encouraged to make other sustainable purchasing decisions where practicable.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
- 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.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2017
Implementation details:
On April 17, 2017, the City of Jordan’s City Council approved the city to move forward and finalize a contract with ReneSola – a community solar company. After that, the city will offset 120% of its electricity usage from a community solar garden, saving about $3,000,000 over the 25 year contract.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
The cost savings associated with going solar, and the amount of carbon emissions eliminated, will ultimately be used to judge this action.
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
ReneSola
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Community Forests and Soils {BP no.16}
- Action 4:
Maximize tree planting along your main downtown street or throughout the city.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
All commercial zones; C1, C2, and C3 have planting requirements specified in their design standards. Recently our C-2 downtown just was renovated and multiple trees were added in every bock of the downtown.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Parks and Trails {BP no.18}
- Action 1:
Make improvements within your city's system of parks, offroad trails and open spaces.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The Comprehensive Plan's Parks and Recreation chapter identifies geographical regions of the city that need new parks. Subsection VII is where this information can be found. We also created a Parks Master Plan.
http://jordanmn.gov/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Master-Parks-Trails-Natural-and-Resource-Plan.pdf
http://jordanmn.gov/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Master-Parks-Trails-Natural-and-Resource-Plan.pdf
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Measurement of success can be examined through the amount of green space in the city.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
- Action 2:
Plan and budget for a network of parks, green spaces, water features and trails for areas where new development is planned.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The 2008 Comprehensive Plan's Parks and Recreation chapter addresses future park availability and needs. Relevant subsections include VII, IX, and X.
Our subdivisions Chapter under Deigns standards 153.11 details our requirements for new open space and park space though out Jordan.
Our subdivisions Chapter under Deigns standards 153.11 details our requirements for new open space and park space though out Jordan.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
- Action 3:
Achieve minimum levels of city green space and maximize the percent within a ten-minute walk of community members.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
There are at least 7 acres of municipal park land per 1,000 residents as per calculations. Attached in a link to our website with the Master Parks, Trails and Natural and Resource Plan.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Surface Water {BP no.19}
- Action 4:
Adopt a shoreland ordinance for all river and lake shoreland areas.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
See city code section on the Shoreland overlay district (154.281).
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Sustainable Consumption and Waste {BP no.22}
- Action 5:
Arrange for a residential and/or business/institutional source-separated organics collection/management program.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2017
Implementation details:
In the spring of 2016, the City of Jordan signed a 5 year contract with a Dick’s Sanitation. The new partnership began offering city-wide organic collection on January 1, 2017. Jordan is now one of a few cities in Minnesota that offers food and yard waste collection to all residents. Dick’s Sanitation also engages residents in order to provide education on best methods for managing organics, yard waste, solid waste, and recycling. In addition to regular organics collection and outreach, annual fall leaf collection and winter tree collection are provided for free to all residents – keeping excess organic matter out of the city’s surface waters.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
By issuing a RFP for a new waste hauler, the city saved a considerable amount of money for its residents while offering them additional services including organics collection. Moving forward, the baseline of organics collection participants will be assessed and the city will look into partnerships to increase usage.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Dick's Sanitation
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Local Air Quality {BP no.23}
- Action 2:
Reduce residential burning of wood and yard waste and eliminate ‘backyard’ trash burning.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
City code section 90.072 outlines stipulations for recreational fires.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Resilient Economic and Community Development
Benchmarks and Community Engagement {BP no.24}
- 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.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2017
Implementation details:
In April 2017, the Jordan Planning Commission received their yearly update on Jordan’s involvement in the GreenStep City program and provided feedback on priorities for the year. Additionally, the City of Jordan’s website contains information about Jordan’s status in the GSC program, and is updated with information on which best practices have been accomplished. To increase awareness of the city’s involvement, updates on achievements in the GreenStep program are noted in the city newsletter for all residents to find. Residents are encouraged to contact the city with questions/suggestions on how to become more environmentally friendly.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Beginning in 2017, the planning commission will have a yearly update on Jordan’s GreenStep Cities actions and successes. The commission will also offer feedback on which best practices and actions to prioritize moving forward.
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
- Action 3:
Measuring Outcomes: Engage community members and partners in identifying, measuring, and reporting progress on key sustainability and social indicators/ including energy use/greenhouse gas emissions, social vitality/social inclusion outcome measures.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2017
Implementation details:
The Jordan Planning commission is tasked with receiving updates and giving feedback on Jordan’s sustainability efforts. Metrics the commission will receive updates on include: Jordan’s B3 Energy Use Intensity analysis, amount of road salt saved, amount of solid waste truck trips eliminated, and participation in the city’s organics collection program. Informed decisions regarding future city development can be made considering the city's ecological footprint.
In addition to updating the Planning Commission with this information, the city’s website will be updated yearly so that all city residents have access to Jordan’s ecological footprint data. Also, GreenStep updates made in the city newsletter will include a report on the city’s energy use, salt use, solid waste truck loads, and organics participation.
In addition to updating the Planning Commission with this information, the city’s website will be updated yearly so that all city residents have access to Jordan’s ecological footprint data. Also, GreenStep updates made in the city newsletter will include a report on the city’s energy use, salt use, solid waste truck loads, and organics participation.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Sustainability indicators for the city of Jordan include: Road salt usage, solid waste transport trips eliminated, B3 Energy Use Intensity, and participation in city-wide organics collection.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Green Business Development {BP no.25}
- Action 3:
Promote sustainable tourism in your city, and green tourism resources to tourism and hospitality businesses in/around the city.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2015
Implementation details:
A partner organization, Explore Jordan, has maps of all parks the City’s multi-use trails for visitors to find and enjoy.
Explore Jordan has designed an historic walking tour, which gives tourists a detailed tour, building-by-building, of Jordan’s History.
The city has continually invested in park space, specifically in Veteran's Park and Lagoon Park, abutting the downtown area. This includes winning a MN DNR grant to install a Fishing Pier in Lagoon Park - offering plentiful recreation opportunities and green-space proximate to Jordan’s downtown businesses and attractions
The city redesigned and reconstructed its downtown infrastructure in 2014/15 by widening sidewalks, adding curb bump-outs, adding bike lanes, and installing street trees - calming traffic and providing friendlier space for Jordan’s visitors and residents.
Explore Jordan has designed an historic walking tour, which gives tourists a detailed tour, building-by-building, of Jordan’s History.
The city has continually invested in park space, specifically in Veteran's Park and Lagoon Park, abutting the downtown area. This includes winning a MN DNR grant to install a Fishing Pier in Lagoon Park - offering plentiful recreation opportunities and green-space proximate to Jordan’s downtown businesses and attractions
The city redesigned and reconstructed its downtown infrastructure in 2014/15 by widening sidewalks, adding curb bump-outs, adding bike lanes, and installing street trees - calming traffic and providing friendlier space for Jordan’s visitors and residents.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
The success of downtown business will be used as a metric to judge the city’s effectiveness in supporting local recreation opportunities.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Explore Jordan; Jordan Chamber of Commerce
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
- Action 7:
Conduct or participate in a buy local campaign for community members and local businesses.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2016
Implementation details:
The city of Jordan has partnered with local businesses to create a social media campaign that highlights select local businesses in a series called “business of the week”. This campaign also highlights city events and notable sales to encourage residents to shop in town.
The Jordan Chamber of Commerce gives 'Jordan Dollars' to residents for use at local businesses. This supplements Jordan's buy local social media campaign.
Jordan branded its downtown district with the phrase “live shop dine” and created a promotional video to remind residents of the amenities available within the city
The Jordan Chamber of Commerce gives 'Jordan Dollars' to residents for use at local businesses. This supplements Jordan's buy local social media campaign.
Jordan branded its downtown district with the phrase “live shop dine” and created a promotional video to remind residents of the amenities available within the city
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Jordan Chamber of Commerce
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Renewable Energy {BP no.26}
- Action 1:
Adopt wind energy and/or biomass ordinances that allow, enable, or encourage appropriate renewable energy installations.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Jordan's zoning code had a dedication section for regulations regarding alternative energy.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
- Action 6:
Report installed private sector-owned renewable energy/energy efficient generation capacity with at least one of the following attributes:
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City of Jordan has an agreement in place with SunShare to participate in their new Solar garden.
The City of Jordan has an agreement in place with SunShare to participate in their new Solar garden.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
Local Food {BP no.27}
- Action 4:
Measurably increase institutional buying and sales of foods and fibers that are local, Minnesota-grown, organic, healthy, humanely raised, and grown by fairly compensated growers.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2015
Implementation details:
Organic foods are sold by Jordan's grocery store, Radermachers. While all residents have access by car, the city has made improvements to its sidewalk and trail system allowing the majority of residents access via trails or sidewalks.
The local meat market, Pekarna's, sells locally sourced meat to at least three local restaurants.
The local meat market, Pekarna's, sells locally sourced meat to at least three local restaurants.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Climate Adaptation and Community Resilience {BP no.29}
- 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.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2015
Implementation details:
The City of Jordan uses an Emergency Operations Plan developed for situations specifically like those produced by catastrophic weather events. The plan is updated by the Jordan’s Chief of Police and Emergency Manager in order to maintain it to standards set by the State of Minnesota and Scott County. Extreme weather events, reinforced by climate change, are among the most likely emergencies and specific precautions and policies are outlined to respond to such events. Responsibilities for every type of emergency event are assigned to city staff members. Jordan Public Schools will partner with the city in the event that emergency housing is needed, the schools also assist in alerting families of severe weather. The plan also covers what to do in public health, terrorist, and other types of emergencies. Other city responsibilities include regular testing and maintenance of emergency sirens and regular safety commission meetings to address concerns from traffic management to natural resource issues.
Jordan partners with Scott County in emergency preparedness efforts. Scott County runs an Emergency Management and Homeland Security program which addresses anything from severe weather to terrorist acts. Jordan’s Emergency Manager attends regular meetings with other municipal and county officials. Through this partnership, Jordan’s residents and businesses have access to the Code Red Weather Warning service which informs them via text or phone call about severe weather conditions including, but not limited to, tornadoes, hail, floods, blizzards, and extreme heat and cold. Jordan also works with Scott County to hold preparedness exercises in order to maintain staff readiness for extreme events.
Jordan is in the process of working with the Federal Emergency Management Agency to update its floodplain maps. This is critical for the city and its residents to understand where vulnerabilities to flooding exist.
Jordan partners with Scott County in emergency preparedness efforts. Scott County runs an Emergency Management and Homeland Security program which addresses anything from severe weather to terrorist acts. Jordan’s Emergency Manager attends regular meetings with other municipal and county officials. Through this partnership, Jordan’s residents and businesses have access to the Code Red Weather Warning service which informs them via text or phone call about severe weather conditions including, but not limited to, tornadoes, hail, floods, blizzards, and extreme heat and cold. Jordan also works with Scott County to hold preparedness exercises in order to maintain staff readiness for extreme events.
Jordan is in the process of working with the Federal Emergency Management Agency to update its floodplain maps. This is critical for the city and its residents to understand where vulnerabilities to flooding exist.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Jordan Public Schools; Scott County Sheriff's Office, Scott County Public Health; Federal Emergency Management Agency
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
- Action 6:
Reduce the urban heat impacts of public buildings, sites, and infrastructure and provide resiliency co-benefits.
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2015
Implementation details:
In 2015, Jordan completed a rebuild of its downtown streetscape, which was informed by the City Planning Commission and other public engagement. This involved lane width reductions and reduced overall asphalt coverage while incorporating street trees and bump-outs with native planter beds into the streetscape for the first time in Jordan. This project won a Project of the Year Award from the American Public Works Association – Minnesota Chapter.
The city of Jordan continually assesses the amount of public park land and greenspace in city limits by providing analysis in its comprehensive plan’s land use chapter. In addition to creating parkland greenspace, the city recodified its city code in 2015, which streamlined the code and eliminated inconsistencies.
Jordan’s City Code requires the preservation of greenspace in every area of the city to retain those benefits provided by vegetation. One example is the requirement that all residents and businesses incorporate a percentage of pervious landscaping. In residential areas, city code stipulates that a Tree and Woodland Preservation Plan is required when building new housing. In order to satisfy the preservation requirements, builders can plant boulevard trees to provide shade to city infrastructure. Additionally, in residential areas, city code directs residents to maintain 60% or more of lot as pervious landscaping including ornamental shrubs and trees.
In areas zoned for commercial use, Jordan requires businesses to build planted parking islands in lots that have more than 20 parking spaces. “To provide shade throughout a parking area to reduce the amount of heat absorbed by the pavement” (§154.157)
In areas zoned for Industrial use, businesses must provide screening for parking and storage areas. Jordan encourages those land users to install evergreen trees instead of fencing to accomplish this while providing shade year round.
The city of Jordan continually assesses the amount of public park land and greenspace in city limits by providing analysis in its comprehensive plan’s land use chapter. In addition to creating parkland greenspace, the city recodified its city code in 2015, which streamlined the code and eliminated inconsistencies.
Jordan’s City Code requires the preservation of greenspace in every area of the city to retain those benefits provided by vegetation. One example is the requirement that all residents and businesses incorporate a percentage of pervious landscaping. In residential areas, city code stipulates that a Tree and Woodland Preservation Plan is required when building new housing. In order to satisfy the preservation requirements, builders can plant boulevard trees to provide shade to city infrastructure. Additionally, in residential areas, city code directs residents to maintain 60% or more of lot as pervious landscaping including ornamental shrubs and trees.
In areas zoned for commercial use, Jordan requires businesses to build planted parking islands in lots that have more than 20 parking spaces. “To provide shade throughout a parking area to reduce the amount of heat absorbed by the pavement” (§154.157)
In areas zoned for Industrial use, businesses must provide screening for parking and storage areas. Jordan encourages those land users to install evergreen trees instead of fencing to accomplish this while providing shade year round.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
In addition to reduced urban heat island effect, Jordan has seen numerous co-benefits from its focus on street trees. Benefits include a friendlier environment for cyclists and pedestrians, increased infiltration of storm water, and a more aesthetically pleasing streetscape.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929
Nathan Fuerst (City staff) | nfuerst@jordanmn.gov | 952-492-7929