City Detail

Background Information

City of Lakeville
County: Dakota
Population: 63748
GreenStep City category: A
Full-time equivalent city staff (approx.): 202
Participating township, county, school:

GreenStep Coordinator

Ann Messerschmidt
City Staff
amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov
952-985-4500
City web page relating to sustainability/GreenStep activities:
https://lakevillemn.gov/980/Sustainable-Lakeville
GreenStep City resolution: Click here to view the file.
GreenStep City status and date: STEP 3 ( )

City Assessment Files and City Performance Metrics

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

Assessment File
2021 - click to view assessment

Best Practice Actions Underway and Completed

Completed actions are denoted by stars.

Total completed actions: 32
1 star actions: 6
2 star actions: 8
3 star actions: 18

Buildings and Lighting Buildings and Lighting

Efficient Existing Public Buildings {BP no.1}

3 star - Action 1:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2010
Implementation details:
Lakeville has been entering data into the Minnesota B3 Benchmarking website monthly since 2010 with historical data going back to 2007. Trends for each building are reviewed periodically to gauge energy performance and look for ways to improve efficiency.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528
3 star - Action 2:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City completed updates to its building automation software in 2018 and centrally controls the HVAC temperature, setbacks, and mechanical settings in 12 buildings. Janitorial staff was changed to daytime hours in 2016. Filter changes on air handling units are performed four times per year by both City and contractor staff to improve performance. A high-efficiency condensing boiler was installed in 2017. LED lighting retrofits are completed annually within City facilities as fluorescent tubes and fixtures need replacement. Occupancy sensors for high bay fluorescent light were installed in the Central Maintenance Facility truck garage in 2005 with the construction of the building and are monitored and adjusted as needed to maintain efficiency.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528
3 star - Action 3:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2019
Implementation details:
The City has completed a study with Apex Efficiency Solutions that reviewed each of the City's facilities for energy savings, operations and maintenance savings, and potential incentives available from the utilities. With lighting upgrades, HVAC improvements, and building envelope improvements, potential savings total over $161,000.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528

Efficient Existing Private Buildings {BP no.2}

3 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: 2018
Implementation details:
In 2018, the City began an initiative to reduce urban water usage by optimizing private irrigation system efficiency. Irrigation audits were conducted at two homeowners associations to review system components (controllers, sprinkler heads, rain sensing technology), scheduling practices, and uniformity of water application. The audits provided the HOAs with a list of items that could be implemented to keep more water within local groundwater aquifers, reduce the potential for pollutants to enter local creeks and lakes, and save on annual irrigation costs.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528
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: 2007
Implementation details:
In 2007, the City adopted a water use ordinance specifically to address residential lawn watering and irrigation practices. Impacts to the City's water system were felt particularly during hot summers water levels in the aquifer drew down and it was harder to pump water to replenish storage tanks. The ordinance specifically restricted customers to odd or even day watering and prohibited watering between 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily. Exceptions were allowed to hand watering of gardens and the establishment of new sod.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528

Efficient Outdoor Lighting and Signals {BP no.4}

3 star - Action 1:

Require energy efficient, Dark-Sky compliant new or replacement outdoor lighting fixtures on city-owned/private buildings and facilities.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2010
Implementation details:
Existing City ordinance requires that new street lights, building exterior lights, and parking lot lights for City-owned and private buildings an facilities be dark sky compliant.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528
2 star - Action 5:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2014
Implementation details:
The City uses both solar-powered lights and LEDs for driver feedback signs that display vehicle speeds as part of traffic calming measures. Permanent driver feedback signs are used high traffic residential areas and moveable signs are used throughout the City to reinforce speed limits, to highlight speed zone changes, and to focus driver attention on speed zones during street construction detours. The City also uses solar-powered LEDs at school zone and park pedestrian crossings to highlight the crossing when active.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528
3 star - Action 6:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2011
Implementation details:
Since 2011, the City has relamped three parking lots at City facilities with Dark Sky compliant LED lighting. Any interim replacements for wall packs and bollard lighting at facilities are Dark Sky compliant LED. The City as a plan for the relamping of exterior lighting at all City facilities with LED beginning in 2019.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528

Land Use Land Use

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

3 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: 2019
Implementation details:
On October 7, 2019, the City Council adopted the City’s Met Council approved 2040 comprehensive plan laying out the vision for the Lakeville over the next 20 years. The plan includes a transportation chapter that is further subdivided to address specific types of streets and, specifically, pedestrian and bicycle trails and connectivity to City and regional amenities.
A goal for the plan is orderly expansion of Lakeville’s industrial parks through the logical extension of utilities to ensure local employment opportunities and a diverse tax base. Encouraging infill development that maximizes the return on existing investments in public facilities, infrastructure, and services.
The comprehensive plan addresses the importance of sustainability as an underlying theme for all elements in the plan. Local focus will be on maximizing protection and preservation of natural areas in Lakeville, providing infrastructure for electric cars, working to expand transit options both as part of the regional system and intracommunity options, expanding Lakeville’s system of sidewalks, trails, and greenway corridors both to promote healthy living and serve as an alternative transportation option, allowances for local food access, and access to solar energy.
Coincident with the adoption of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan, City Council also adopted the 2020-2024 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) which was developed alongside the comprehensive plan. The Comprehensive Plan references the City’s Capital Improvement Plan that catalogs public investments by date and cost. Staff planning for capital improvements looks out a minimum of 10 years. The CIP is reviewed annually and updated to identify the City’s development objectives, infrastructure needs and allocation of financial resources providing City officials and the community with a strategic approach to implementation and administration of construction projects. The Planning Commission reviews the CIP every year for its consistency with the Comprehensive Plan.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.lakevillemn.gov/762/2040-Comprehensive-Plan
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528
3 star - Action 2:

Demonstrate that regulatory ordinances comply with the comprehensive plan including but not limited to having the zoning ordinance explicitly reference the comprehensive plan as the foundational document for decision making.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2000
Implementation details:
Title 11, Chapter 1, paragraph 11-1-1C. states “Relation To The City's Comprehensive Plan: Pursuant to Minnesota statutes 473.858, as may be amended, and city policy, the city's adopted comprehensive plan shall serve as the basis upon which land use and development shall be regulated. This title shall not conflict with and shall be based upon and implement the city's comprehensive plan.”
Approximately 28 additional references to the Comprehensive Plan are found in sections dealing with Purpose and Intent, Procedures, Evaluation and Review Criteria, Administrative Permits, Appeals, and other sections of subsequent chapters in Title 11, requiring that the effects of the proposed land use be considered in relation to the specific policies and provisions of and has been found to be consistent with, or as outlined in, the official city comprehensive plan.
Nine other references to the Comprehensive Plan exist in other titles and chapters of City Code governing maps, premature subdivisions, park dedication, and findings by the Planning Commission.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.sterlingcodifiers.com/codebook/index.php?book_id=418
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528

Design for Natural Resource Conservation {BP no.10}

2 star - Action 6:

Conserve natural, cultural, historic resources by adopting or amending city codes and ordinances to support sustainable sites, including roadsides, and environmentally protective land use development.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2010
Implementation details:
The City uses a variety of methods to conserve its natural resource base and green infrastructure. City ordinances detail development in protected areas and require buffers, flood control measures, potential redesigns of subdivisions, and other measures to protect environmentally sensitive areas. In addition, City ordinances highlight wetlands management and the implementation of a wetland management plan by the developer that is consistent with the City’s wetland management plan. The City, through its environmental practices, closely monitors development along a MN DNR designated trout stream and restores degraded sections to improve the quality and diversity of aquatic habitat and reduce sediment loading. In other areas the City’s zoning ordinances identify specific development requirements for shoreland overlay districts, public and open space districts, and flood plain overlay districts. The City is also active, through the City Forester, in managing and enforcing its tree preservation ordinance to preserve all healthy trees, even those less than 6” in diameter. The City Forester provides a list of tree species to use when replacing trees under the developer’s tree preservation plan to ensure species diversity within the City and to avoid overplanting of trees susceptible to parasites and disease.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528

Transportation Transportation

Living & Complete Streets {BP no.11}

3 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: 2020
Implementation details:
The City adopted a Sustainable Infrastructure Policy in July 2020. The resolution directs the city to utilize a sustainable infrastructure process to provide a guide to emphasize transportation projects that accommodate for pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, transit riders, and disabled persons through the ongoing creation of a multi-modal transportation network and to ensure designs that reduce environmental impacts by reducing impervious surface, managing stormwater, and providing shade.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Paul Oehme (City Staff) | poehme@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-2700
3 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: 2015
Implementation details:
As detailed in its 2015 Parks, Trails, and Open Space Plan and the 2040 Transportation Plan portion of the City’s comprehensive plan, the City of Lakeville has a well-developed local trail system including connections to City Parks, its historic downtown, Lake Marion, and portions of two planned regional trails that extend through the City, and its schools. Over the last decade, Lakeville has incorporated off-street trails, sidewalks, and bikeways into major roadway improvements throughout the City, creating key linkages within the bicycle network. Many roadway improvement projects have included trails on both sides of roadways, providing more connections to neighborhoods and local trails and enhancing the local trail system. North-south trails extend along one or both sides of Kenrick Avenue, Kenwood Trail, Ipava Avenue, Dodd Boulevard, Highview Avenue, Cedar Avenue, Flagstaff Avenue, and Pilot Knob Road. East-west trails extend along 160th Street, 162nd Street, 165th Street, 170th Street, 175th Street, and 185th Street. Other prominent existing local trails adjacent to City streets that create connections into neighborhoods and business centers include the Juno Trail. The City of Lakeville continues to improve and expand its trail system and multimodal planning focuses on filling identified gaps in the existing local trail system and connecting the local system to the regional parks and trail systems, regional employment clusters and regional transit facilities.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528
3 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: 2014
Implementation details:
The City of Lakeville implemented traffic calming measures during two street reconstruction projects in 2014 and 2016. The challenge in the first project was to make a speed transition from 40 mph to 30 mph as a collector roadway moved from a rural section to a residential section. The City worked with residents to install dynamic speed display signs on both the north and southbound lanes of the residential portion of the roadway and reconstructed that segment with bump outs to narrow the roadway. The second project involved slowing traffic as it approached the intersection of a high-speed, high-volume county road. Again, working with residents, the City reconstructed a quarter mile section of the street with bump outs to create a dramatic narrowing of the roadway as it approached the intersection with the county road. The City has also converted two land to three lane roadways, to improve traffic safety in areas shared between residential users and commercial districts. The City has also partnered with Dakota County over the last five years in the construction of four roundabouts at high volume intersections with both county roads and City streets. As the City reviews and develops its transportation capital improvement plan annually, traffic calming measures and locations for roundabouts are a part of the planning process and implemented where they will have the most benefit.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Dakota County
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528

Mobility Options {BP no.12}

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: 2015
Implementation details:
In 2008 the City of Lakeville received a federal grant through the Minnesota Department of Transportation for a citywide safe routes to school (SRTS) planning program. This provided a systematic, in-depth examination of issues preventing K-8 students from walking and bicycling to schools throughout the City. The planning effort involved 14 elementary schools and three school districts within City boundaries. The study identified approximately $174,000.00 of non-infrastructure improvements at 12 of the schools. Improvements noted were as simple as adding bicycle racks and as complex as installing advanced warning signs with flashers. Following the planning program report, the City and schools budgeted for many of the improvements identified. Those completed included solar powered LED button activated flashers at pedestrian crossings, trail connections from neighborhoods to main trails leading to schools, permanent crosswalk flashers and advanced crosswalk warning signs, and crosswalk and sidewalk connections to reduce student and vehicle interaction. The City remains active with ISD 194, through an SRTS committee reviewing and resolving resident issues regarding the safest and best routes to schools.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
MN DOT, ISD 192, ISD 194, ISD 196
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528
1 star - Action 3:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2018
Implementation details:
The City of Lakeville has partnered with the Dakota Area Resources and Transportation for Seniors, now known by its acronym DARTS, to provide circulator bus service to Lakeville seniors. The bus operates on Thursdays from 8:45 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. making seven residential stops both scheduled and by request and transports seniors to key shopping and other destinations within the City. Comprehensive information is available on the City’s website to include program applications and the bus route and stop times.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528

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: 2020
Implementation details:
The City Council adopted a sustainable purchasing policy in July 2020. The policy encourages an increase in sustainable purchasing practices, like those mentioned above, as well as in the areas of 1. Waste Reduction, 2. Recycled Content Products, 3. Energy and Water Savings, 4. Guidelines for Cleaning Products, 5. Construction and Renovation Guidelines. The sustainable purchasing policy is a guide to selection of goods and services that encourage minimal impact on the environment, possible cost savings, and increase demand for better products.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528
2 star - Action 5:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2014
Implementation details:
The City of Lakeville follows MnDOT specifications for its road reconstruction projects. City projects incorporate recycled materials in the mix and the base. If recycled concrete is use in the base, the recycled concrete content may not exceed 40 percent by volume. In the base or wear course job mix, the maximum allowable percentage of recycled material incorporated into the mix shall not exceed 50 percent by weight of recycled material to final production mix. The City’s road reconstruction projects involve reclamation of the old asphalt and its incorporation into the base for the road.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528

Community Forests and Soils {BP no.16}

1 star - Action 1:

Certify as a Tree City USA.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City of Lakeville is currently certified as a Tree City USA and has been a Tree City for 25 years.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528
3 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: 2010
Implementation details:
The City has adopted a tree preservation ordinance that requires owners/developers to prepare a tree preservation plan for each graded lot. The plan must be certified by a licensed forester or landscape architect. Trees that are identified in the plan that were destroyed or damaged must be replaced with two replacement trees from nursery stock of a specified height and diameter.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528

Stormwater Management {BP no.17}

1 star - Action 5:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2014
Implementation details:
The City has adopted design standards for rain gardens/infiltration practices through a standard specification included in the City's specification book. The City hosts two design workshops per year with the Dakota County Soil and Water Conservation District for residents to learn about the installation of rain gardens.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528

Surface Water {BP no.19}

2 star - Action 3:

Adopt and publicly report on measurable surface water improvement targets for lake, river, wetland and ditches.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City of Lakeville works closely with its neighboring cities and with both the Black Dog Water Management Organization and the Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Organization on surface water management issues and solutions.
In Lakeville, a 21-year involvement in the Citizen Assisted Monitoring Program allows the City monitor six lakes, Marion, Orchard, Kingsley, Valley, and East, on a bi-weekly basis to track water quality trends. Samples collected by local residents and staff are analyzed for various indicators of algae growth potential; surface water temperature and water transparency are also observed. This information provides the City with water quality data to use in properly managing surface water resources and serves to document water quality impacts and trends. Grades assigned by the Metropolitan Council are reported to the City annually.
The City also conducts annual studies on Marion, Lee, Orchard, and Valley lakes to monitor water quality, aquatic plants, and fish communities. The results are published annually to increase awareness of plant species and allow for a faster response to aquatic invasive species. Water reuse ponds a King Park are also included in this monitoring for chlorides, phosphorous, and bacteria to ensure that the water used in playing field irrigation does not harm aquatic organisms, promote algae growth, or adversely affect the recreational use of the park.
The City has also sponsored the Wetland Health and Evaluation Program since 2002 to provide educational opportunities and training for residents to collect data by using bio-indicators to evaluate wetlands throughout the City.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528
3 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: 2010
Implementation details:
The City adopted a shoreland ordinance in 2010 to manage the effect of shoreland and water surface crowding, to prevent pollution of surface and groundwater in and around the City, to provide ample space for subsurface sewage treatment systems, jto minimize flood damage, and to maintain the natural charistics of shorelands and adjacent water areas.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528

Efficient Water and Wastewater Systems {BP no.20}

3 star - Action 1:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2016
Implementation details:
The City has entered energy use data into B3 Benchmarking for purposes of monitoring and managing energy use and for comparison with peer water production facilities. Energy use in a water treatment plant varies with weather and can be significantly affected by drought years. However, the treatment facility has invested in variable frequency drives on its high service pumps and has been able to reduce pump use to one pump for the majority of its needs. This has produced a saving in demand charges when starting up additional pumps to meet daily demand.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
In comparing kWh per 1000 gallons in 2008 with 2016 there was a 7 percent decrease in energy consumption. During both years, the facility pumped 2.43 billion gallons and saw an approximate increase in electric rates of 15 percent over the intervening 8 years. The treatment facility is on a peak shaving program with Dakota Electric Association and receives a reduced commercial electrical rate.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528
3 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: 2000
Implementation details:
The City has been active for the past 20 years in executing a rehabilitation program for each of is production wells. In addition, staff monitor the wells on a weekly basis for proper operation and to look for signs that the motor and pump are operating inefficiently. Indications of inefficient operation prompt immediate action and that well is taken offline and further evaluated for rehabilitation. Out of cycle rehabilitations are accomplished by delaying a well or another capital project scheduled in that fiscal year. Vertical turbine pumps are scheduled for rehabilitation every 8 years and wells with submersible pumps scheduled for rehabilitation every 10 years. One standby well is scheduled for rehabilitation every 13 years based on its infrequent use. A typical well rehabilitation removes the downhole pipe and the motor and pump. The motor and pump are evaluated and either sent away for refurbishment or replaced. The well is televised and any accumulated sand is removed to eliminate the potential for damage to the pump components.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528
2 star - Action 3:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2007
Implementation details:
The City has been active for the past 12 years in budgeting and executing a program for addressing inflow and infiltration within the sanitary sewer system. Initial efforts focused on televising and lining specific segments of pipe and sealing manhole structures that indicated the potential for, or were active in, allowing groundwater infiltration. As part of its inflow and infiltration mitigation efforts, flow meters were placed in areas considered most likely to produce higher sewer flows. Evaluation of collected data has allowed the City to televise and inspect specific sewer lines to monitor for both inflow and infiltration. In instances were inflow is suspected, the City approached the property owner to educate them on proper hookups for sump pumps and rain leaders. Subsequent years have seen a steady increase in the City's budget for inflow and infiltration mitigation and larger-scale projects to address issues throughout the City rather than being limited to a single area in any given year. Additional emphasis has also been placed on complete manhole sealing or rehabilitation to ensure that the structures do not contribute to the problem. The City also purchased a sewer camera truck to aid in the monitoring and management of the sanitary sewer system. The City is a participant in MCES grants for projects to mitigate inflow and infiltrations.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528

Septic Systems {BP no.21}

2 star - Action 4:

Adopt a subsurface sewage treatment system ordinance based on the Association of Minnesota Counties' model ordinance.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2010
Implementation details:
The City has adopted the Dakota County subsurface sewage treatment ordinance No. 113 and amended it through its own ordinance.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528

Resilient Economic & Community Development Resilient Economic and Community Development

Benchmarks and Community Engagement {BP no.24}

3 star - Action 1:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2018
Implementation details:
A page on the City's website is dedicated towards explaining and updating the community on the City's GreenStep best practice activity and progress. The City designated its Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Committee to coordinate and lead efforts to engage the community in GreenStep Cities. The City is also partnering with the Lakeville Friends of the Environment, a volunteer group of environmentally concerned residents, to coordinate and promote environmentally focused open houses that feature information on the GreenStep Cities program as a whole and City activities specifically. The City’s Environmental Resources staff organizes and promotes other events such as Earth Day and Watershed Cleanup day that serve to bring the City’s GreenStep activities to a wider community audience. The City’s GreenStep coordinator acts as the center of GreenStep Cities activity for Lakeville and works with and reports to both the Park and Natural Resources Committee and City Council on the City’s best practices. Ongoing updates on progress are communicated via the City's website. Information on the City’s GreenStep activities and progress is reported to the City Council on a regular basis.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528
3 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: 2013
Implementation details:
The City of Lakeville focuses its plans and planning process along with its Envision Lakeville visioning process. Envision Lakeville is a citywide visioning process to bring people together to share opinions and ideas about the vision for the future of Lakeville. The process includes input from residential, commercial, and industrial property owners, as well as City staff and non-governmental organizations, and a task force of community members. Their work guides strategic planning for the City and influences comprehensive planning in terms of transportation, community growth, parks and trails, and effective and efficient services. Plan inputs serve as the goals and objectives within the Envision Lakeville product and are reported to City Council and updated on the City’s Envision Lakeville webpage. The Envision Lakeville dashboard gives residents a quick look at the status of plan goals in five broad categories and allows them to drill down to see what objectives have been accomplished, what actions are sill pending, and what the City is doing to meet those objectives. The individual goals and objectives are updated annually as plans and priorities change. The Envision Lakeville process has gone through two iterations, the first in 2013 to establish the initial visioning process and the second in 2018 to ensure that the vision statement, community values, and strategic priorities continued to reflect the current and future needs and goals of the community.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.lakevillemn.gov/975/Envision-Lakeville
Residential, commercial, and industrial property owners, City staff and non-governmental organizations, and community members
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528

Green Business Development {BP no.25}

1 star - Action 6:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2020
Implementation details:
The City of Lakeville’s 'Thrive' newsletter is a monthly publication that is written for Lakeville businesses. In cooperation with Dakota County, advertisements for the County's grant opportunities will be created and green businesses in the Lakeville Community will be highlighted to promote more businesses to take sustainable action steps.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
https://www.lakevillemn.gov/Archive.aspx?AMID=37
Dakota County
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528
1 star - Action 7:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2020
Implementation details:
The City of Lakeville frequently promotes the local farmers market seasonally via social and print media and has done so since the farmers market began many years ago. Recently, the City supported the local campaign to connect residents with local restaurants who were operating during the pandemic. The website is www.LakevilleRestaurants.com. This information was shared on the City’s website, and through social and print media for many weeks. The City of Lakeville is also an active partner with the Downtown Lakeville Business Association. The City will continue to support local campaigns for community members and local businesses.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
www.LakevilleRestaurants.com
Lakeville Convention and Visitors Bureau, Downtown Lakeville Business Association
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528

Climate Adaptation and Community Resilience {BP no.29}

3 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: 2020
Implementation details:
The latest City of Lakeville’s ‘Emergency Operation Plan’ was presented to the City Council in October 2019. This plan includes a hazard mitigation plan that is reviewed by the county and state every 2-4 years and the plan identifies shelters to be used in the event of an emergency as well as arrangement of adequate provisions and backup power for one-week or longer. This includes agreed-upon procedures and sufficiency of backup power sources. This plan is reviewed yearly and is updated as needed.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Mike Meyer (City Staff) | mmeyer@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4740