City Detail

Background Information

City of Marshall
County: Lyon
Population: 13700
GreenStep City category: A
Full-time equivalent city staff (approx.): 100
Participating township, county, school: Lake Marshall Township
Marshall Public Schools

GreenStep Coordinator

Jasmine DeSmet
City Staff
jasmine.desmet@ci.marshall.mn.us
507-537-6769
City web page relating to sustainability/GreenStep activities:
https://ci.marshall.mn.us/
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
2025 - 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: 46
1 star actions: 14
2 star actions: 18
3 star actions: 14

Buildings and Lighting Buildings and Lighting

Efficient Existing Public Buildings {BP no.1}

2 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:
Implementation details:
Utility information for the City of Marshall and Marshall School District buildings has been entered into the B3 database dating back to 2007 and continues to be entered in on a regular basis.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Energy usage and utility costs are tracked and compared to benchmark data to validate energy efficiency improvement savings. Under performing buildings are targeted for additional savings opportunities.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Marshall Municipal Utilities, City of Marshall
For more information contact:
Mark Antony (City staff) | MarkA@marshallutilities.com | (507) 537-7005
1 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:
In 2010/2011, an energy audit was completed and savings opportunities identified. Areas with the most potential for energy savings at the lowest cost were targeted for efficiency improvements. This meant a lighting retrofit for the following buildings: City Hall, North Ambulance, the Parks Maintenance Shed, Airport Shop, MERIT Center, Wastewater treatment facility, and the Street Department.

Due in part to the success of the first retrofits, additional retrofits were begun in 2014 to the Legion Field Swimming pool.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
The Street Dept replaced 500 watt incandescent lighting in its storage building with T-8 Highbay fluorescent fixtures resulting in improved lighting and a 75% reduction in energy usage. Overall the 2011 lighting retrofit resulted in an overall electric savings of 20%.

An order has been put in for LED lighting for the Legion Field swimming pool, switching from the original incandescent lighting. Overall the project is expected to reduce the swimming pool's electric demand by 16,205 W, saving 28,453 kWh each summer.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Marshall Municipal Utilities, City of Marshall
For more information contact:
Mark Antony (City staff) | MarkA@marshallutilities.com | (507) 537-7005
2 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:
Implementation details:
Energy audits were completed on all City buildings and savings opportunites identified. Buildings with the most potential for energy savings with the lowest cost were targeted for efficency improvements.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Lighting retrofits were completed at City Hall, Wastewater Facility, Parks Department, Airport, Ambulance building, and Merit Center, replacing all T-12 lighting with high performance T-8 lighting.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Marshall Municipal Utilities, City of Marshall
For more information contact:
Mark Antony (City staff) | MarkA@marshallutilities.com | (507) 537-7005
2 star - Action 4:

Implement IT efforts and city employee engagement to reduce plug loads, building energy use and workflow efficiency.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The New Marshall High School, Marshall Area YMCA, and Community Library all implemented a number of efficiency improvements during their construction within the last 10 years. Additional engineering and efficiency improvement rebates were provided through Marshall Municipal Utilities Energy Efficiency Rewards Program. Energy Management Systems are utilized at the Marshall High School, Junior High School, New Library, YMCA, and Municipal Utility office to control energy usage and costs. The energy management system at the new library controls light levels through daylight harvesting in addition to controlling HVAC settings based on time of day and occupancy.

Common practice for all new City and School computer, office equipment, electronics, and appliance purchases is to specify ENERGY STAR models when available.

The City waste water plant, lift stations, utility office, and water plant all participate in Utility Interruptible rates to control demand and energy costs.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Energy usage is continuously monitored through Minnesota B3 benchmarking. The School is in the process of re-commissioning to further improve it's efficiency and is seeking ENERGY STAR Certification.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Marshall Municipal Utilities, Marshall HIgh School
For more information contact:
Mark Antony (City staff) | MarkA@marshallutilities.com | (507) 537-7005
1 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:
Implementation details:
The new Marshall-Lyon County Library was constructed in 2011 and features a closed loop geothermal heating and cooling system using 54 wells. The Geothermal HVAC system provides efficient heating, cooling, and snow melting.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Engineers estimate 2,605,000 kBtu and $36,000 saved per year, and a simple payback of less than 3 years after utility rebates.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Marshall Municipal Utilities, City of Marshall, Lyon County
For more information contact:
Mark Antony (City staff) | MarkA@marshallutilities.com | (507) 537-7005

Efficient Existing Private Buildings {BP no.2}

1 star - Action 1:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Marshall Municipal Utilities markets it's energy efficiency programs and conservation through a number of different resources, including radio advertisement, newspaper, bill stuffers, open houses, and mailings. Conservation efforts are monitored and savings tracked. Marketing efforts are tailored to the appropriate season and adjusted as needed to capture new technologies and oportunities. Trade allies also help promote conservation efforts.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Conservation efforts are monitored and savings tracked. Marketing efforts are tailored to the appropriate season and adjusted as needed to capture new technologies and oportunities. Trade allies also help promote conservation efforts. Marshall Municipal Utilities (MMU), in conjunction with Missouri River Energy Services, offered a $35 rebate to customers willing to part with their old inefficient, underutilized, refrigerator or freezer that may have been driving up their energy bills. The primary objective of the program is to help our customers remove their under-utilized, inefficient appliances
off the grid and ensure they are properly recycled. MMU was able to eliminate approximately 36 inefficient appliances off of their system for an estimated annual
savings of 27,100 kilowatt hours (kWhs).
Since the inception of this program in 2010, 251 appliances have been recycled for a savings of 183,535 kWhs. The program will be offered again in the Spring of 2013
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.marshallutilities.com/connector/20120706-Summer.pdf
Marshall Municipal Utilities, Marshall Independent, Marshall Radio
For more information contact:
Mark Antony (City staff) | MarkA@marshallutilities.com | (507) 537-7005
2 star - Action 2:

Integrate green building and EV charging best practices information and assistance into the building permit process.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
IN PROGRESS:
Marshall Municipal Utilities offers an ENERGY STAR New Homes program which provides rebates for ENERGY STAR qualification. Conservation, rebate and energy efficiency information is sent out to new building permit holders.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Marshall Municipal Utilities, City of Marshall
For more information contact:
Mark Antony (City staff) | MarkA@marshallutilities.com | (507) 537-7005
2 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:
Implementation details:
Marshall Municipal Utilities has an Odd/Even sprinkling ordinance in place to help conserve and balance the demand for water. A Water Conservation Rate is also in place for residental and sprinkling meters. Rebates are provided for WaterSense toilets along with free low flow shower heads and faucet aerators to Marshall residents.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Conservation efforts have increased considerably since implementing a water conservation rate in 2009. More than 70 WaterSense toilet rebates were given out since 2010 when the program began and over 2,600 low flow shower heads have been provided to date.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Marshall Municipal Utilities
For more information contact:
Mark Antony (City staff) | MarkA@marshallutilities.com | (507) 537-7005

Efficient Outdoor Lighting and Signals {BP no.4}

2 star - Action 2:

Purchase LEDs for all future street lighting and traffic signals.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
All new street light fixtures installed must meet Marshall Municipal Utilities requirements for Dark-sky compliance, efficiency, and light levels.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Nearly all of Marshall's Street lights have been replaced with new Dark-sky compliant energy efficient light fixtures as part of Marshall Municipal Utilities electric conversion project.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Marshall Municipal Utilities, City of Marshall
For more information contact:
Mark Antony (City staff) | MarkA@marshallutilities.com | (507) 537-7005
2 star - Action 3:

Replace the city's existing street lighting with Dark Sky-compliant LEDs, modifying any city franchise/utility agreement and adding smart grid attributes.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Marshall Municipal Utilities policy is to replace all street light fixtures with new energy efficient fixtures as part of it's planned electric system improvement project.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Nearly all of Marshall's Street lights have been replaced with new Dark-sky compliant energy efficient light fixtures as part of Marshall Municipal Utilities electric conversion project.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Marshall Municipal Utilities
For more information contact:
Mark Antony (City staff) | MarkA@marshallutilities.com | (507) 537-7005
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:
Implementation details:
Marshall Municipal Utilities (MMU) implemented a pilot LED Street light project in 2010, installing 33 LED street light fixtures along State Street near Southwest Minnesota State University.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Following the intallation of MMU's LED fixtures , Southwest Minnesota State University also replaced 50 parking lot light fixtures with similar LED fixtures.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Marshall Municipal Utilities, Southwest Minnesota State University
For more information contact:
Mark Antony (City staff) | MarkA@marshallutilities.com | (507) 537-7005

Building Redevelopment {BP no.5}

2 star - Action 3:

Plan for reuse of large-format retail buildings, or work with a local school, church or commercial building to either add-on space or repurpose space into new uses.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
A 36,000 square foot retail building was home to Alco (one of the first big box stores) and Running Fleet and Farm since 1979. It was empty for over four years as it was too small for modern big box retail and too big for the locally owned retail business. Brau Brothers, a regional brewery, started looking to relocate their brewery and considered Marshall as one of the candidate cities. The City of Marshall provided a $125,000 forgivable loan and another $125,000 low interest loan as a way to attract the business and make the most efficient use of the vacant property.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
in 2013 Marshall secured the first ever brewery in Lyon County.
The move for Brau Brothers allowed them to increase production from 5,000 barrels per year to over 25,000.
The business contributes to the tax base of the community.
Due to the rising popularity of craft breweries, Marshall has become a destination point for people that want tours or want to attend one of the many events that the brewery brings to town (e.g., concerts, etc.).
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Marshall Chamber of Commerce; City of Marshall; Lyon County Economic Development
For more information contact:
Cal Brink (City staff) | calb@marshall-mn.org | 507-337-0802

Land Use Land Use

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

1 star - Action 1:

Adopt a comprehensive plan or (for Category B & C cities) adopt a future land use plan that was adopted by the county or a regional entity.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
A Comprehensive Plan was completed in 1996 with updates and amendments in 2004. Discussion is taking place about a plan update.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Goals will change in subsequent updates, but current goals address: 1)development of bike and walking trails, 2)conservation of natural resources, 3) curbside recycling 3) alternative energy sources 4) wetland protection 5) water quality and conservation 6) building preservation

Sustainability-related goals are scattered throughout the document rather than being listed in a specific section, although there is a section outlining the state of Marshall's environment when the plan was written.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://marshallmn.com/main/index.php/public-works/planning-zoning/comprehensive-plan
City of Marshall
For more information contact:
Ben Martig (City staff) | Ben.Martig@ci.marshall.mn.us | 507-537-6760
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:
Implementation details:
Regulatory ordinances comply with the city comprehensive plan and the plan is referenced in the CODE OF ORDINANCES CITY OF MARSHALL. The comprehensive plan is listed as a basis for several ordinances.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
The following are links to specific ordinances referencing the comprehensive plan:
http://library.municode.com/HTML/13297/level3/PTIICOOR_CH66SU_ARTIINGE.html#PTIICOOR_CH66SU_ARTIINGE_S66-2PUCH
http://library.municode.com/HTML/13297/level3/PTIICOOR_CH66SU_ARTIINGE.html#PTIICOOR_CH66SU_ARTIINGE_S66-9COPLPLCHPRADRU
http://library.municode.com/HTML/13297/level3/PTIICOOR_CH86ZO_ARTIINGE.html#PTIICOOR_CH86ZO_ARTIINGE_S86-3PUINCH
http://library.municode.com/HTML/13297/level3/PTIICOOR_CH86ZO_ARTIINGE.html#PTIICOOR_CH86ZO_ARTIINGE_S86-5IN
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://library.municode.com/index.aspx?clientId=13297
City of Marshall
For more information contact:
Glenn Olson (City staff) | Glenn.Olson@ci.marshall.mn.com | 507-537-6773
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:
Implementation details:
The 2004 plan references the 2002 Lyon County comprehensive plan which addresses models of township-city interaction. The Lyon County Plan also provides a framework for orderly annexation agreements. Further information can be found on pages 127-130 of the 2004 Marshall Comprehensive Plan.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Issues covered by the Lyon County plan include: land use, sewer and water, economic development, housing and for foreclosures.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://marshallmn.com/main/images/works/pdf/City-of-Marshall-1996-Comprehensive-Plan.pdf
For more information contact:
Ben Martig (City staff) | Ben.Martig@ci.marshall.mn.us | 507-537-6760

Mixed Uses {BP no.8}

1 star - Action 3:

Modify a planned unit development (PUD) ordinance to emphasize or require mixed-use development or affordable housing, to limit residential PUDs to areas adjacent to commercial development, and/or to add sustainability features.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City's PUD ordinance allows for mixed uses in addition to higher density uses.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://library.municode.com/HTML/13297/level3/PTIICOOR_CH86ZO_ARTVPLUNDE.html#TOPTITLE
For more information contact:
Glenn Olson (City staff) | Glenn.Olson@ci.marshall.mn.com | 507-537-6773
1 star - Action 5:

Have a downtown zoning district that emphasizes small and destination business, entrepreneurial spaces, and allows or requires residential and residential-compatible commercial development.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
There is as downtown zoning district which allows for mixed uses of buildings (ie apartments on top of businesses). The district is outlined in the comprehensive plan.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://marshallmn.com/main/images/works/pdf/City-of-Marshall-1996-Comprehensive-Plan.pdf
For more information contact:
Glenn Olson (City staff) | Glenn.Olson@ci.marshall.mn.com | 507-537-6773

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:
Implementation details:
Since becoming a Level 1 GreenStep City in 2012 the City of Marshall has demonstrated a commitment to the Complete/Living Streets standards by implementing a number of practices to improve and encourage safe, multimodal transportation in the community. The city partnered with Marshall GreenStep, Healthy56258, and the Southwest Regional Development Commission to conduct an extensive Health Impact Assessment in 2015 in an effort to look at the sidewalk and biking/walking path infrastructure, and to determine gaps. The study also looked at some problem intersections in the community. Input was sought from community members and several listening sessions were held to gather information. The final report and recommendations were presented to the City Council and received very favorably. In the past 5 years the number of miles of paved trails has more than doubled. Marshall now has 12.73 miles of on-street and 14.34 of off-street bike/walking paths, and in 2015 completed a 14 miles off-street path that connects the City of Marshall with the City of Lynd and Camden State Park. A Safe Routes to Schools application has also been written and submitted by a partnership that is concerned about making sure students can get to and from schools efficiently and safely. One of the most recent examples of commitment to Complete/Living Streets was the redesign of one of the most dangerous intersections in the Minnesota for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. The Saratoga Street segment and Highway 23 intersection were redesigned to include “J-Turns” to reduce right angle car crashes. A large pedestrian bridge and bike/walking trail were constructed to provide convenient and safe biking and walking access to several neighborhoods that were separated by dangerous levels of traffic.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Marshall has achieved Tree City USA status since 2014. The City of Marshall has a Surface Water Management Utility as identified by Chapter 78, Article III. of the City Code of Ordinances. Revenues derived from stormwater utilities are dedicated to the construction, maintenance, and operation of the storm sewer drainage system and for education of stormwater best practices. Marshall now has 12.73 miles of on-street and 14.34 of off-street bike/walking paths, and in 2015 completed a 14 miles off-street path that connects the City of Marshall with the City of Lynd and Camden State Park. A pedestrian bridge and reduced conflict intersection was completed in 2015 and safety data is collected on-going.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://ci.marshall.mn.us/main/index.php/public-works/engineering/construction-projects/highway-23-saratoga-project
GreenStep Committee; Healthy 56258; Southwest Regional Development Commission
For more information contact:
Glenn Olson (City staff) | Glenn.Olson@ci.marshall.mn.com | 507-537-6773
3 star - Action 4:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
In an effort to improve connectivity and safety for bicyclists and pedestrians, the City of Marshall has solicited public input and formed new partnerships to increase the number of bike lanes, miles off-street paved trails, and make connections between the other cites and regional parks. With assistance from the Southwest Regional Development Commission a Health Impact Assessment was conducted in 2015 which provided information about sidewalk and trail gas as well as problem intersections.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Main Street Reconstruction of twelve blocks of sidewalks 2016 – replacing deteriorated pedestrian sidewalks after MNDOT improvements of ADA ramps at all intersections in 2015.

12.73 miles of painted bike lanes with signs to improve drivers awareness of cyclists and provide designated cycling lanes.

14.34 miles of paved off-street bike trails to connect all major areas of the city.

Reconstruction of Trails – Holy Redeemer & Avera.

Unprecedented partnership between the City of Marshall, Lyon County, City of Lynd and Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to share financial resources and in-kind staff contributions to construct a paved off-highway trail to connect Marshall, Lynd and Camden State Park (14 miles completed in fall of 2015).

Safe Routes to School Planning Grant 2016 application with the following partners: Marshall Middle School, West Side School, Marshall Area Christian School, Holy Redeemer, Park Side School.

2019 update: The third Reduced Conflict Intersection project on Highway 23 in Marshall is complete and open to traffic.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation constructed a Reduced Conflict Intersection (RCI), also referred to as a J-turn, at Highway 23 and Lyon County Road 7. This type of intersection decreases fatalities and injuries caused by broadside crashes (also known as T-bones) on four-lane divided highways because drivers only have to be concerned with one direction of traffic on the highway at a time. The first RCI in Marshall was installed at Highway 23 and Saratoga Street in 2015. In 2018, the second RCI was constructed at Highway 23 and Lyon Street and completed earlier this summer.
Benefits of the project include enhanced safety. The project cost $2.1 million and Midwest Contracting, LLC, was the contractor.
For information on navigating Reduced Conflict Intersections, visit www.mndot.gov/RCI.
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
City of Marshall, City of Lynd, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Camden State Park Staff, Lyon County, Marshall Public Schools
For more information contact:
Glenn Olson (City staff) | Glenn.Olson@ci.marshall.mn.com | 507-537-6773
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:
Implementation details:
If you look at a Minnesota map of paved bike trails you will notice that southwest Minnesota clearly has fewer trails that most other areas of the state. For the past 25+ years there has been a vision for a paved bike trail that would connect Marshall with Camden State Park. The 14 mile trail was finally completed in 2015 due to an historical partnership between the City of Marshall, Lyon County, City of Lynd, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and Minnesota Department of Transportation.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
$2.6 million in Legacy Funds Secured. Financial and In-kind contributions from City of Marshall, City of Lynd and Lyon County. 14 mile section of trail completed that connects 2 cities and a Minnesota State Park.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.marshallindependent.com/page/content.detail/id/568921/City--county--state-hail-the-trail.html?nav=5015
City of Marshall, City of Lynd, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Lyon County, Camden State Park Staff
For more information contact:
Ben Martig (City staff) | Ben.Martig@ci.marshall.mn.us | 507-537-6760

Mobility Options {BP no.12}

3 star - Action 1:

Increase walking, biking and transit use by one or more of the following means:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Pioneering a Healthier Marshall in conjunction with the City of Marshall has developed and distributed updated maps to encourage walking and biking. There are also several kiosks located on the trail system to promote trail use.

2019 update:
In December of 2018, the City of Marshall was named a Bronze Level Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of America Bicyclists. This was the result of several community meetings with the Minnesota Bicycle Alliance and the collection of data to meet the Bronze Level status.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Trail maps are available at city offices, the chamber of commerce, community businesses, trail kiosks and the city website. Bike racks have been expanded and include locations at: Aquatic Center, all public and private schools, all city parks, 3 downtown locations, city/county library, and Southwest Minnesota State University. Marshall was selected as the first MN city destination as part of the Tour de Kota cycling event in 2012 because of its reputation as a bike friendly community.

2019 update:
The achieve Bronze Level status the City of Marshall received high ratings in the following measures: Share of Transportation Budget
Spent on Bicycling, Bike Month and Bike to Work Events and Bicycle–Friendly Laws & Ordinances.
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
https://bikeleague.org/sites/default/files/bfareportcards/BFC_Fall_2018_ReportCard_Marshall_MN.pdf
Pioneering a Healthier Marshall
For more information contact:
Amanda Beckler (City staff) | amanda.beckler@ci.marshall.mn.us | 507-537-6769
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: 2019
Implementation details:
2019:
The Bicycle Safety Extravaganza is an annual event held in Marshall with the purpose of promoting safe use of bicycles.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
2019:
During the Bicycle Safety Extravaganza, community members are able to register their bicycles for free, practice in a designated bike skills course the proper use of a bicycle, go over safety procedures and purchase locks, helmets and lights at a discounted price. The 2019 event estimated 300 in attendance.
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
Law Enforcement, Southwest Heath Improvement Program, YMCA, City of Marshall, The Bike Shop, Southwest Health and Human Resources, Avera
For more information contact:
Amanda Beckler (City staff) | amanda.beckler@ci.marshall.mn.us | 507-537-6769
3 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:
Implementation details:
The Marshall Visitors and Conventions Bureau home page has a link for various transportation options and Western Community Action, Inc. has specific route information available on their site as well. The bus service website is also prominently linked on the Marshall city homepage.

2019 update:
On May 20th, 2019 the City of Marshall officially launched its Bike Share program which allows community members and visitors the opportunity to utilize bicycles at no charge.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Link on the page have contact information, costs and schedules for Bus Service, Taxi, Car Rental and Aviation options.

2019 update:
Nine TREK bicycles are available at three check out locations including the Marshall YMCA, AmericInn and the Bike Shop. The Roll-out event was held which included a bike with city officials event. The bicycles are equipped with odometers which will track the usage each season.
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
http://www.wcainc.org/transit/
Marshall Visitors and Convention Bureau
For more information contact:
Amanda Beckler (City staff) | amanda.beckler@ci.marshall.mn.us | 507-537-6769

Efficient City Fleets {BP no.13}

1 star - Action 3:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2019
Implementation details:
It is the policy of the City of Marshall that City owned vehicles are not to be left running when they are unattended, nor shall they be left idling while parked.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Amanda Beckler (City staff) | amanda.beckler@ci.marshall.mn.us | 507-537-6769

Environmental Management Environmental Management

Sustainable Purchasing {BP no.15}

1 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:
Implementation details:
The City of Marshall has an administrative practice of purchasing Energy Star rated equipment and appliances, whenever they are available. Several years ago they started to move toward using recycled paper in their printers and copiers, but had some negative experiences with dust, jamming and warranty issues. Knowing that the quality of recycled paper has improved, they are committed to move forward with utilizing at least 30% post-recycled content paper and are soliciting feedback from other GreenStep Cities to see what brands they are using, what experiences they have had over the years, and any other recommendations that Marshall should consider. Once a cost effective and proven brand has been identified it will be tested in several printer/copiers for reliability. At that time Marshall will adopt guidelines to purchase at least 30% post-recycled content paper along with their current commitment to buy energy star rated equipment.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Monthly tracking of print and copy jobs processed with a goal of lowering paper consumption over time.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Marshall GreenStep Committee
For more information contact:
Ben Martig (City staff) | Ben.Martig@ci.marshall.mn.us | 507-537-6760
2 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:
The City of Marshall receives its power from Marshall Municipal Utility. Currently 15% of our electricity comes from wind resources and 17% is supplied by hydropower. Overall, renewable energy supplies 32% of total purchases by the City of Marshall.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Marshall Municipal Utilities
For more information contact:
Mark Antony (City staff) | MarkA@marshallutilities.com | (507) 537-7005
2 star - Action 7:

Lower the environmental footprint of meetings and events in the city.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Tour de Kota bicycle event hosted nearly 400 bicyclists in June 2012 and was our first GreenStep City event. Marshall City Council meetings have adopted a paper-less meeting program.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Implemented the following green practices:
-Refilling water stations eliminated plastic bottles.
-Reduced printed material by developing a weblink and the use of QR codes for smartphones.
-Recycling and waste stations located throughout campground.
-Reusable signs for future events.
-Posted event schedules vs. printed handouts.
Marshall City Council meetings have lowered their environmental footprint by going paperless.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://council.marshallmn.com/
Marshall Chamber of Commerce, Visitors and Conventions Bureau, Marshall Public Schools, Public Safety
For more information contact:
Tom Hoff (Contractor) | Tom.Hoff@swsc.org | 507-537-2271

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 Marshall has been recognized as a 2014 Tree City USA. This is a national recognition program of the Arbor Day Foundation that awards communities that meet the four core standards of urban forestry management. These standards are: maintaining a tree board or department, having a tree ordinance, spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry and the celebration of Arbor Day.

Tree Board or Department:
Glenn Olson, the Director of Public Works and Zoning Administrator, serves as this position for the City of Marshall.
Tree Ordinance: A tree ordinance was established in Marshall on November 11, 1997. It can be found in Chapter 82 –Vegetation, Sections 82-1 and 82:21-33.
Tree Expenses: The population of Marshall is 13,700 and in 2014, the total forestry expenditure was $104,980. The expenses per capita were $7.66.
Arbor Day Celebration: Mayor Robert Byrnes proclaimed May 1, 2014 as Arbor Day. As an Arbor Day celebration, Marshall High School students planted trees near the athletic fields on school grounds.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
The Tree City USA award was presented to the City of Marshall at a City Council meeting on May 12, 2015.

High school students planted dozens of new trees near the school on May 5, 2015 which was part of the Arbor Day celebration.
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
City of Marshall; Marshall GreenStep Committee; Marshall Municipal Utilities
For more information contact:
Glenn Olson (City staff) | Glenn.Olson@ci.marshall.mn.com | 507-537-6773
2 star - Action 4:

Maximize tree planting along your main downtown street or throughout the city.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City of Marshall has enacted a landscape ordinance that requires specific green space and tree plantings within developments. A copy is available on the City website. The landscaping ordinance is reviewed with all proposed development submissions. The ordinance specifies the rate of trees per square foot of exposed ground, per foot of lot street frontage, multiple species and disease resistance requirements, etc. The City has its own tree farm that includes a wide variety of evergreen and deciduous species and uses the trees throughout the City for replacements and new developments. Marshall Municipal Utilities invests in tree planting and sells trees at low prices to customers to be planted within the community.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
In the five block stretch of Marshall's Downtown Main Street retail district there are 63 boulevard trees with an average spacing of 30 feet between them.
Marshall's tree farm has over 600 trees located in three locations in the City.
Marshall Municipal Utilities plants between 150 and 200 trees each year and sells and additional 400 per year to its customers for planting.
The City of Marshall plants about 300 trees per year.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.municode.com/library/mn/marshall/codes/code_of_ordinances
City of Marshall; Marshall Municipal Utilities
For more information contact:
Glenn Olson (City staff) | Glenn.Olson@ci.marshall.mn.com | 507-537-6773

Stormwater Management {BP no.17}

1 star - Action 2:

Complete the GreenStep Municipal Stormwater Management Assessment.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2020
Implementation details:
The City of Marshall completed the GreenStep Municipal Stormwater Management Assessement in December 2020. The City of Marshall received a score of 27% on the Stormwater Assessment Tool and 25% for the Climate Adaptation Score.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Amanda Beckler (City staff) | amanda.beckler@ci.marshall.mn.us | 507-537-6769
3 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:
Implementation details:
The City of Marshall has a Surface Water Management Utility as identified by Chapter 78, Article III. of the City Code of Ordinances. The fees are variable and dependent upon land use and land size. Revenues derived from the utility are dedicated to the construction, maintenance, and operation of the storm sewer drainage system and for education of stormwater best practices.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
University, high school, and middle school students monitor Redwood River water quality, as it enters and leaves the City of Marshall. Information gained is entered into the World Water Monitoring Database, and shared with City leaders and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. http://marshallindependent.com/page/content.detail/id/560506/Just-testing-the-waters.html?nav=5015
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
www.municode.com/library/mn/marshall/codes/code_of_ordinances
Marshall Municipal Utilities, Marshall GreenStep Committee, Southwest Minnesota State University, Marshall Public School, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
For more information contact:
Glenn Olson (City staff) | Glenn.Olson@ci.marshall.mn.com | 507-537-6773

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:
Implementation details:
In the past 5 years the City of Marshall has completed a comprehensive analysis of biking and walking paths in an effort to improve safety and connectivity. During this time the number of miles of paved trails has more than doubled. As part of this effort a Health Impact Assessment was conducted (see attached) through community surveys and listening sessions. A report of the Health Impact Assessment findings were presented to the Marshall City Council.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Reduced conflict intersection and pedestrian overpass ($5.4 million) 2016 completion (access to residential and Marshall Middle School).

Pedestrian Underpass ($1.1 million) Connecting Southwest Minnesota State University, Marshall High School and the Amateur Sports Center under four lane interregional corridor (Minnesota Highway 23).

Windstar Street pedestrian access from residential neighborhood to developing commercial area.

Downtown bike path and pedestrian connection from downtown to YMCA, dog park, Library and the Marshall Middle School.

12.73 miles of on-street bike paths and 14.34 miles of off-street bike paths.

Completion of off-street paved bike path connecting the City of Marshall, City of Lynd and Camden State Park (14 miles)

Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
http://swmnride.com/main/index.php/biking.html
City of Marshall, City of Lynd, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Lyon County, Camden State Park Staff
For more information contact:
Ben Martig (City staff) | Ben.Martig@ci.marshall.mn.us | 507-537-6760
3 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:
Implementation details:
Marshall Minnesota was officially designated as a Minnesota Amateur Regional Sports Center in 2008. Since that time the city has successfully lobbied for $4 million in state bonding and passed a 1.5 percent lodging/food & beverage tax as well as a .5 percent general sales tax to fund construction of 4 competition baseball/softball field, improve existing soccer fields and the building of a two sheet ice arena. Keeping the grass on baseball and soccer fields in competition condition requires enormous volumes of water for irrigation. To reduce the use of city water and reduce the amount of water flowing into the stormwater system, a holding pond was constructed near the sports complex that will hold approximately 13.5 million gallons of water when it is filled to the normal water level. Additionally, the newly constructed baseball/softball fields have tiled infields, so the excess water is collected and flows directly into the holding pond, which can be used for irrigation at a later time.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
One pond was constructed with capacity for 13.5 million gallons of water up to the normal water level. Up to 10 million gallons of water could be available to baseball/softball diamonds and soccer fields. The City anticipates using approximately 1.7 million gallons of water per month for irrigation at the complex. If the City had to purchase this water from the local utility, it would cost over $10,000 per month to irrigate at the above stated rate.


Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.marshallindependent.com/page/content.detail/id/573900/The-MARSH-is-launched.html?nav=5015
City of Marshall, Marshall Public School, Southwest Amateur Sports Commission
For more information contact:
Glenn Olson (City staff) | Glenn.Olson@ci.marshall.mn.com | 507-537-6773
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:
Implementation details:
In an effort to educate and engage community members about the problem of trash in the City, the Marshall GreenStep City Clean-up Day was established in 2013. The event occurs annually during Earth Day (week) and involves clean-up of parks, waterways and empty lots in the City of Marshall. In 2016 the event will expand beyond the clean-up of problem areas to help people recycle or properly dispose of common items in their homes (car batteries, mattresses, appliances, old paint, electronics, clothing, household items, etc.)
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
In 2016 868 pounds of trash were picked up in 15 problem areas in the city by 327 volunteers. Total volunteer hours equaled 8,127 hours. The trash from one lot was analyzed for content and to serve as a baseline for future years. That one lot had 7 lbs of plastic shopping bags (359 bags). Meetings were held with area businesses to determine management plans for reducing the blowing of trash in the community.
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
Marshall Public Schools;Marshall GreenStep; Cultures United; Southwest Minnesota State University; Marshall Fire Department; Holy Redeemer School; SMSU Enactus: Sentence to Serve; Karen Organization
For more information contact:
Tom Hoff (Contractor) | Tom.Hoff@swsc.org | 507-537-2271

Efficient Water and Wastewater Systems {BP no.20}

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:
Implementation details:
2019: The Minnesota Public Facilities Authority (PFA) announced $12 million in loan and grant funding for water infrastructure projects in Atkin, Dassel, Gibbon, Marshall. “These projects will increase access to clean water and protect the environment,” said Governor Tim Walz. “This represents a great investment in the health and wellbeing of our local communities.” “Water infrastructure continues to be a vital resource for Minnesota communities,” said DEED Commissioner Steve Grove. “These projects represent an investment in the future health and economic growth of Greater Minnesota.”
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
2019: Marshall, $7,000,000
This project consists of improvements to the drinking water treatment plant that will reduce discharge of chlorides to the environment. Funding for this project comes from a Point Source Implementation grant of $7 million. In addition $4,585,492 will come from local sources.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
City of Marshall, Marshall Municipal Utilities, Minnesota Public Facilities Authority
For more information contact:
Mark Antony (City staff) | MarkA@marshallutilities.com | (507) 537-7005

Sustainable Consumption and Waste {BP no.22}

2 star - Action 2:

Address concerns over consumer products and packaging through encouragement/implementation of one or more of:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2019
Implementation details:
Lyon County and the City of Marshall offer curbside garbage pick up and bi-weekly recycling.

Walmart and Hy-Vee provides in-store plastic bag, film, and/or wrap recycling.
Goodwill provides ink cartridge and electronic recycling.
Lyon County Environmental provides electronic, hazardous waste, appliance, car-seat and mattress recycling.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.lyonco.org/departments/environmental
Lyon County
For more information contact:
Tom Hoff (Contractor) | Tom.Hoff@swsc.org | 507-537-2271

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:
Implementation details:
In 2011 a group of public and private citizens began meeting to discuss environmental challenges in the City of Marshall. On April 26, 2012 the Marshall City Council officially designated the group as the Marshall GreenStep Committee. The committee is comprised of city staff, privates business owners, agencies, and concerend citizens. They meet monthly to share information and work on various GreenStep Best Practices. Prioritization and completion of Best Practices are coordinated with city leadership and departments.

Information about the GreenStep activities and Best Practice accomplishments is shared through newspaper articles, links from the City and Chamber websites, and frequent presentations to the City Council/Rotary/Kiwanis.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Two to three newspaper articles per year on Marshall GreenStep activities.
Weekly links from the Chamber newsletter to the Marshall GreenStep web page.
One to two presentations to the Marshall City Council each year.
Two to three presentations to the Marshall Rotary and Kiwanis clubs each year.
The Marshall GreenStep page has a direct link to the Marshall page on the Minnesota GreenStep Cities website so anyone can see the Best Practices completed.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.marshallgreenstep.org/
Marshall GreenStep Committee, City of Marshall, Marshall Municipal Utilities, Lyon County Recycling
For more information contact:
Tom Hoff (Contractor) | Tom.Hoff@swsc.org | 507-537-2271
1 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:
Implementation details:
Reporting on all city goals and significant initiatives are available via video on http://marshallstudio1tv.com All City Council Meetings are also available via video at this same site. Reports, such as the Annual Finance Report and Economic Development Report are available at www.ci.marshall.mn.us Community members are invited to an annual Lyon County Summit, which is organized by the City of Marshall and Lyon County Economic Development to report on city goals/accomplishments and to discuss upcoming projects. The event is MC'd by the Mayor and other City leaders. Highlights can be seen at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MybK5H_Tllc
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
All project information and reports are available to community members via video and hard copy at the City website and on the Studio 1cable access channel
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://marshallstudio1tv.com
Discover Southwest Minnesota
For more information contact:
Ben Martig (City staff) | Ben.Martig@ci.marshall.mn.us | 507-537-6760
3 star - Action 4:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2019
Implementation details:
On April 27th, 2019 Healthy56258 and GreenStep Cities partnered to bring the first annual Healthy and Green Living Expo event to Marshall. The purpose of this event was to encourage sustainable, healthy lifestyles and environmental protection.

2019 update: A bee club has been established in the City of Marshall that meets monthly to discuss beekeeping and encouraging more people to provide habit for pollinators. Southwest Minnesota State University has agreed to host a bee yard on their campus that now includes 20+ hives.

2019 update: The City of Marshall offered community education courses on gardening "Vegetables for Everyone" and "Garden Food Safety" with the intent to educate community members on gardening tips/techniques as well as reducing the risk of unintentional contamination of fresh produce in the garden setting.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
There were 40 exhibitors that represented sustainable, healthy lifestyles and environmental protection. Approximately 300 community members were in attendance at this event. The goal is to continue this event and it's purpose annually to encourage healthy and green living.

2019 update: Southwest Minnesota State University established an Environmental Sustainability Workgroup in 2019 that is comprised of students, faculty, administration and staff. It was established to research, discuss and investigate the current sustainability practices on campus; evaluate the commitment of the university to these initiatives; identify other opportunities to increase sustainability on campus.
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
https://healthy56258.org/
Healthy56258, GreenStep Cities, City of Marshall, Bremer Bank, Avera, Lyon County Environmental Department, YMCA, Hy-Vee, Minnesota State Energy Center of Excellence, Minnesota West
For more information contact:
Tom Hoff (Contractor) | Tom.Hoff@swsc.org | 507-537-2271

Green Business Development {BP no.25}

2 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:
Implementation details:
The Marshall GreenStep Committee worked on a Marshall GreenStep Business Program in the fall of 2012 and implemented the program in January 2013. The program was based on Minnesota GreenStep Cities Best Practices and various formats from around the United States. The program has been advertised frequently in chamber newsletters and in newspaper articles. Businesses must submit an online application that totals at least 15 points in categories such as Solid Waste Prevention, Recycling, Purchasing, Energy and Water Conservation, Involving Employees and Customers, and Transportation. Completed applications are reviewed by the Marshall GreenStep Committee each month.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Marshall GreenStep Businesses are recognized each month in the Marshall Independent Business Briefs and on our website. Each business also receives a Marshall GreenStep Business window cling and permission to use the logo in their marketing materials. For a complete list of GreenStep businesses go to our website at: www.marshallgreenstep.org
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
http://www.marshallgreenstep.org/green-business.html
Marshall Area Chamber of Commerce; Marshall GreenStep Committee
For more information contact:
Tom Hoff (Contractor) | Tom.Hoff@swsc.org | 507-537-2271
3 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:
Implementation details:
The Marshall Area Chamber of Commerce has established a "Shop Local" campaign that provides information to the residents of Marshall and the business community. The information focuses on the Economic Growth Opportunity, and Community Benefits of shopping local. Information is presented through the local media (monthly full page news ads) and presentations are provided to various community groups throughout the year. Some strategies that are implemented as part of the campaign are: Use of Chamber Gift Checks as gifts that can only be redeemed locally and a low cost coupon book that features local businesses.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
700 Chamber Saver Coupon Books sold for $25 each that provide over $400 in savings per book.
Over $100,000 in Chamber Gift Checks sold annually that are redeemable at over 380 local businesses.
Three new local taxes that were approved by voters in November 2012 rely on shopping local to fund two important economic generators in the community: MERIT Center and the SW MN Amateur Sports Center.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.marshall-mn.org/index.php/programs/shoplocal
Marshal Area Chamber of Commerce
For more information contact:
Erin Raveling (City staff) | erinr@marshall-mn.org | 507- 532-4484

Renewable Energy {BP no.26}

2 star - Action 2:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Electricity for the City of Marshall is provided by Marshall Municipal Utilities which has various purchase power contracts in place. Renewable purchases for 2011 consisted of 10.25% wind energy and 19.7% hydro power. The City of Marshall has established Wind Energy Conversion System and Solar Ordinances, and Marshall Municipal Utilities has adopted a Distributed Generation Interconnection Workbook to provide guidance and direction to potential renewable energy systems in Marshall.
Marshall Municipal Utilities offers rebates for Solar Thermal Water Heating Systems.

A local business has installed a new 28.8 kW solar PV system on its new office building which has been highlighted in various ways.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Long term wind and hydro power contracts will provide the City of Marshall with renewable energy for many years. A new hydro electric power plant being built near Pella, Iowa will add additional hydro electric power to our resource mix beginning in 2016.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Marshall Municipal Utilities
For more information contact:
Mark Antony (City staff) | MarkA@marshallutilities.com | (507) 537-7005
3 star - Action 5:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Marshall Municipal Utilities entered into a joint partnership with its wholesale power provider and a private developer to construct 18.7 MW of wind generation near Marshall in 2007. The 9 wind turbines generation output is fed directly into MMUs distribution system.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Annual kWh production from the 9 turbines is approximately 62,640,000 kWhs, enough energy to power about 5,800 homes per year. Marshall Municipal utilities has a 20 year contract in place to receive a portion of the turbines output.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Marshall Municipal Utilities
For more information contact:
Mark Antony (City staff) | MarkA@marshallutilities.com | (507) 537-7005

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:
Implementation details:
Community Blooms is a transformative model of community gardening that creates community, provides affordable nutritious food to participants, gives back to the community by providing surplus produce to the local free food shelf, and generates revenue to sustain the garden by also selling some of the surplus produce at the local farmers market. The community gardens are located on Western Community Action grounds which are located directly across the street from a low-income trailer park. The goals of Community Blooms include: grow nutritious affordable food for participants from low-income neighborhood, reduce the number of missed meals among low-income people, increase the family budget by reducing money expended on produce, be a catalyst for community development. Future expansion includes a water reclamation pond to recycle water from the parking lot and roof as well as a hoop house for extending the growing season and starting our own seedlings.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
The total number of participants in its first year included 69 adults and 29 children and the second year had 64 adults and 31 children. The size of the garden is 280 X 140 and has been planted using a surplus style of arranging plants.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.marshallindependent.com/page/content.detail/id/534638/Putting-water-to-work.html?nav=5023
Western Community Action
For more information contact:
Allan Bakke (Community volunteer) | allan.bakke@wcainc.org | 507-537-1416
3 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: 2012
Implementation details:
Aldi’s, Walmart and Hy-vee all have the NAICS Classification code of 445110.
Marshall has a Farmers Market that provides diverse local foods during the growing season near downtown. Marshall Area Christian School, Holy Redeemer School and Marshall Public School participate in the Farm to School Program. Community Members can rent a small plot of land that they can plant and tend throughout the growing season. Marshall Area Food Coop provides food service directors, restaurants, grocery stores and community members an ordering system with access to local producers.
The Farmer's Market has 50+ sellers each Saturday morning and Thursday evening July to October. 75% of food for MACS school lunch program is organic and local (less than 1 hour away). The Marshall Area Food Coop has produced a catalog of local growers for SW Minnesota.
Marshall Community Services has 54 plots (25 X 57 feet), each rented individually each season for $30. They are highly sought after and we have a waiting list every year. The rental fee covers two tillings (spring and fall) and access to water. Individual renters are responsible for care and cleaning of gardens throughout the growing season. There are expansion plans for 2013.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://healthy56258.org/bountiful-basket/
For more information contact:
Tom Hoff (Contractor) | Tom.Hoff@swsc.org | 507-537-2271

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:
Implementation details:
The Lyon County Hazard Mitigation Plan documents the multi-jurisdictional, multi-hazard mitigation planning process in Lyon County, Minnesota, which is intended to meet the requirements of the federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000. The Lyon County All-Hazard Mitigation Plan brings resources together to mitigate and respond to hazards, protecting public health, safety and welfare in a useful and easily understood all-hazards approach. This project was undertaken so that all local units of government in Lyon County that wished to participate could become eligible to adopt the plan. All cities participated in Lyon County’s hazard mitigation planning process: Balaton, Cottonwood, Florence, Garvin, Ghent, Lynd, Marshall, Minneota, Russell, Taunton, and Tracy. The Lyon County All-Hazard Mitigation Planning Team, comprised of a number of stakeholders, identified the natural hazards which are High Rank Hazards for Lyon County. This planning process was conducted by the Southwest Regional Development Commission (SRDC) and Lyon County Emergency Management.

Lyon County utilizes the CodeRed Community Notification System that provides emergency notification to residents and businesses. Climate related warnings and instructions related to severe weather, lightening, hail, floods, tornadoes and extreme heat would be distributed by telephone, cell phone, text message, email, and social media.

The City of Marshall’s Emergency Operations Plan was updated in 2015 and approved at the February 10, 2015 City Council Meeting. The Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) to guide the City’s response plans for major natural disasters (i.e., floods, tornadoes, storms, etc.) or man-made events. The Police Department on behalf of the Mayor has primary responsibility in the City of Marshall for emergency preparedness and has recently finished revising the plan. It is all-hazards and incident command based following the NIMS national framework. This is a living document both expanding to address areas that it doesn't provide at this time and to reflect future environmental changes. This has been extensively reviewed by senior city staff and community members with an interest in emergency preparedness, through the community emergency preparedness planning group.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
The City of Marshall Emergency Operations Plan was updated in 2015
The Lyon County Hazard Mitigation Plan is being updated in 2016.
A Climate Resilience Workshop, like the one held in Burnsville, MN is being discussed for agencies in southwest Minnesota.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.lyonco.org/attachments/article/212/Lyon%20County%20AHMP%202010.pdf
Lyon County; City of Marshall Administrative Divisions; Southwest Regional Development Commission; Law Enforcement; Minnesota Pollution Control; Emergency Preparations Planning Group; Marshall Fire Department; Red Cross
For more information contact:
Rob Yant (City staff) | rob.yant@ci.marshall.mn.us | 507-537-7000