City Detail

Background Information

City of Mounds View
County: Ramsey
Population: 12155
GreenStep City category: B
Full-time equivalent city staff (approx.): 52
Participating township, county, school:

GreenStep Coordinator

Nick Henly
City Staff
Nick.Henly@moundsviewmn.org
763-717-4020
City web page relating to sustainability/GreenStep activities:
http://www.moundsviewmn.org/
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: 36
1 star actions: 10
2 star actions: 20
3 star actions: 6

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: 2017
Implementation details:
The City of Mounds View has two existing facilities in B3 Benchmarking, City Hall and the Mounds View Community Center. Currently, a new Public Works Facility is under construction and will be added to B3 once that work is concluded.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nick Henly (City staff) | Nick.Henly@moundsviewmn.org | 763-717-4020
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: 2014 to 2020
Implementation details:
City Hall & Community Center retrofitted with energy efficient lights (2015), Random Park Building (2016), all trail lights to LED (2017/2018) and Hilview and Lambert Park Building and Hockey Rink Lights will be retrofitted in 2020.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Decrease utility bill and increased lighting
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Excel
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442
3 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: 2019
Implementation details:
City conducted trial test of four day work week for City Hall beginning June 1 thru August and based on positive feedback extended to year end and will continue going forward with four day work week in 2020 and beyond. We also implemented flexible work hours that resulted in at least one employee being able to ride share with her spouse.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Reduction in utility costs as result of building being occupied less
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442
1 star - Action 5:

Document that the new construction or major remodeling of a public building has met the SB 2030 energy standard or has met or qualified under a green building or energy framework.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2019
Implementation details:
In 2018/2019, the City constructed a new Public Works Facility as a model for incorporating sustainable design principles in the architectural design as well as the building's operations. Significant daylighting is present throughout the entire building. The building employs occupancy sensors throughout, low-flow water fixtures; state-of-the art HVAC systems, etc. All lighting is either energy efficient (office) or LED (equipment bays), appliances are Energy Star rated. A portion of the equipment storage area is not heated and used to store temperature insensitive equipment and/or materials. A truck wash bay was incorporated that includes an oil and solids separator allowing those contaminants to be removed from the sanitary sewer flow. Truck wash also cuts down on water use compared to hand wash. Low maintenance landscaping around the building includes a raingarden and natural habitats. 100% of storm water is managed on site via rain gardens or retention ponds. Equipment bay doors utilize automatic closures to ensure minimum heat loss.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Reduced electrical consumption as evidenced by not eligible for "off-peak" shavings program (building does not consume enough electrical power such that utility saves enough by shutting it down and we used BU Generator)
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442
1 star - Action 6:

Improve the operations & maintenance of city-owned/school buildings and leased buildings by using a customized online energy efficiency tool, asset management tool, green building framework or green lease.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2017
Implementation details:
The City of Mounds View is implementing the Energy Efficiency Operations Manual for City Hall. Currently the HVAC system is in operation 24/7. By adjusting this the city will likely see a reduction of up to 90 hours for a significant portion of the building.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nick Henly (City staff) | Nick.Henly@moundsviewmn.org | 763-717-4020
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: 2007
Implementation details:
Mounds View is part of a three city JPA Fire Department. When constructed in 2007, the training/public education, maintenance station was building with a ground source Geo Thermal heating and cooling system.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Reduced energy costs. Station One and Station Three have similar energy costs (Station one being traditional gas/boiler heat and Electric AC). However, Station Three is 35,000 Sq. Ft. while Station one is 12,000 Sq. Ft.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
City of Blaine, City of Spring Lake Park, and Connexus Energy
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442

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: 2021
Implementation details:
City has been working this past year on major initiative - Water Preservation Program or H2OPP that will officially roll out January 1, 2020. Conservation and Preservation of Municipal Water, Waste Water, and Storm Water. All three will have Enforcement, Education (Marketing) and Engineering. Specific to water will be a 30% increase on top tier for water usage, production of video on municipal water cost, use, and conservation. Development of infographics for conservation, and use of social media and web to market and promote conservation.

City is in process on $6.6 million upgrade to all 6 wells, three water treatment plants, and reservoir. Treatment plants receiving complete upgrade of all electronic controls with energy efficient products able to also maximize process thus use less chemical to treat.

The City has entered into a written agreement with the Center for Energy and Environment (CEE) – a Green Business. The agreement subsidizes home energy audits CEE conducts. The agreement also provides that CEE manage low interest and zero interest loans to residents and property owner for home improvements (one program) and lateral sewer line rehabilitation as part of our INI reduction effort.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Reduction in municipal water pumped and treated use as compared to last three years
Decrease energy consumption at wells and treatment plants
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
AE2S - contract engineering firm for well and plant upgrades
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442

Efficient Outdoor Lighting and Signals {BP no.4}

2 star - Action 4:

Coordinate traffic signals and/or optimize signal timing to minimize car idling at intersections yet maintain safe and publicly acceptable vehicle speeds.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2018
Implementation details:
As part of the 35W MNPASS construction, all lights on Mounds View Blvd in Mounds View/Ramsey County along with the light at Spring Lake Road and County 10 (Mounds View Blvd.) have been timed and, new technology was incorporated uses satellite clock timing that automatically resets and synchronizes all lights to the same time. Previously, traffic pre-emption (emergency vehicles) use would alter the timing and requiring manual resetting of all lights. The new technology automatically resets all.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Increased traffic flow and reduction of idling at intersections.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Ramsey County Public Works and Anoka County Public Works
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442
2 star - Action 7:

Replace city-owned parking lot/ramp lighting with Dark-Sky compliant, energy efficient, automatic dimming lighting technologies.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2016/2017
Implementation details:
City does not own any street lights, Excel Energy does and has converted all to LED. City has upgraded/installed LED lights on all trail lights in the city
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Reduce energy costs
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442

Land Use Land Use

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

2 star - Action 1:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2008
Implementation details:
The City of Mounds View has a current Comprehensive Plan that was approved by the Metropolitan Council on December 9, 2009 and approved by the City Council on February 8, 2010. This plan looks out to the year 2030.
- City Wide Goal - "Urban Design Goal: The City will strive to improve the appearance of the community, maintain compatible land uses and encourage a sensitive integration among activities, man-made facilities and the natural environment." This goal addresses land use and integration between development/redevelopment and natural areas.
- Land Use Goal - Mixed Use Goal 1: Create sustainable commercial and medium-high density residential land areas that provide services, active living opportunities, life-cycle housing, and enhances the City’s brand, identity and quality of life.

City began work on 2040 Met Council Comp Plan in 2018, allocating up to $70,000 for consultant support and resident feedback. City applied for and received 6 month extension in order to undertake the community survey which resulted in nearly 900 responses - twice what was required to be statistically valid. Draft plan was completed last May and per statute, sent to adjacent communities and received back and is on our consent agenda for the next meeting.

The City has a 2010 Metropolitan Council approved Comprehensive Plan and recently submitted for approval our 2020 Comprehensive Plan that was developed via a task force and substantive engineering work done by Stantec. The city approved final draft in 2020. Surrounding cities, MAC, Rice Creek Watershed and the DNR have all approved the draft.
https://cms6.revize.com/revize/moundsviewmn/document_center/Comprehensive%20Plan/Mounds%20View%20DRAFT%20Comprehensive%20Plan%20May%2015%202019.pdf
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.moundsviewmn.org/government/codes_regulations_and_fees/comprehensive_plan.php
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442
1 star - Action 2:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2020
Implementation details:
Section 1101.4 states:
RELATION TO COMPREHENSIVE MUNICIPAL PLAN: It is the policy of
the City that the enactment, amendment and administration of this Title be accomplished with
due consideration for the recommendations contained in the Comprehensive Municipal Plan as
developed and amended, from time to time, by the Planning and Zoning Commission of the City.
The Council recognizes the Comprehensive Municipal Plan as the Planning and Zoning
Commission’s recommendations for responsibility to regulate land use and development in
accordance with the policies and purpose herein set forth.

As part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan update, the city undertook a similar complete and comprehensive review and update of our entire city code. Met Council requires this condition and upon their review, our in compliance in this category.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442
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: 2020
Implementation details:
The City of Mounds View includes intergovernmental coordination dealing with transportation, watershed impacts, land use, police, fire, and sewer and water in the Comprehensive Plan.

The City of Mounds View works with and has various agreements with the DNR (Spring Lake and Wood Lake) as well as Rice Creek Watershed District.

The city is also working with Ramsey county on transportation issues when county streets are renovated.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442

Resilient City Growth {BP no.7}

3 star - Action 4:

Provide incentives for affordable housing, workforce housing, infill projects, or for life-cycle housing at or near job or retail centers, or for achieving an average net residential density of seven units per acre.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2019
Implementation details:
All three examples are infill/redevelopment projects
City secured tax forfeited parcels, aided in assembling of properties, negotiated with county on providing a shared access, provided TIFF, and was conduit of Met Council grant to construct 60 unit work force housing property along major transportation corridor and within walking distance of retail center. Project also completed trail connection. Property opened October 2019 and filled up in one month.
City secured/purchased and assembled three blighted adjacent properties, removed and properly disposed of building materials, and has provided TIFF for a 127 unit market rate apartment complex currently under construction and is scheduled for first unit’s fall 2020.
City purchased crime ridden and blighted commercial site (motel), removed structure and is in process of working with senior housing developer on 100 unit independent/assisted/memory care property and same work force housing developer for a 100 unit property simultaneously addressing two 30+ year adjacent businesses to enable them to expand. Property is within walking distance of major transportation hub and adjacent to industrial/commercial business park.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
MWF project combined 4 properties, all zoned single family residential; into one multi family resulting in more efficient use of land. With completion, city is near Met Council projection on number of affordable housing units.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442

Mixed Uses {BP no.8}

3 star - Action 1:

Organize or participate in a community planning/placemaking/design process for the city/a mixed-use district, including specific community engagement practices that engage cultural and income diverse community members.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2019
Implementation details:
In 2018/2019 the City created a Comprehensive Plan task force to formulate our 2040 Comprehensive Plan. Members included council, staff, commission members, consultants, community members, and stakeholders. Additionally, A community opinion survey was distributed in the April 2018 Utility Bills, spring 2018 edition of Mounds View Matters, and on the City’s website. The survey included 15 questions on various subjects related to the Comprehensive Plan. The City received 845 responses, equivalent to 7% of the population.

Based on the community input and the Task Force – as compared to previous updates, the Mixed-Use designation becomes a more substantial category for guiding land use. The purpose of a Mixed-Use category is to remove barriers for developments that have complementary uses from two or more use categories – for instance a combination of multi-family residential and office/retail uses together on one parcel, or one neighborhood. The Future Land Use map includes two neighborhoods of Mixed Use; (1) Mounds View Blvd & Groveland Rd; and (2) Mounds View Blvd & Co Rd H2. The previous plan had one mixed use district.

It is the intent – not requirement – that development within the Mixed-Use designation be developed as a Planned Unit Development (PUD). The City anticipates that Mixed Use districts will be redeveloped at 60% residential and 40% commercial with the residential portions matching the density minimums and maximums of the High-Density Residential designation:
• Mixed Use (residential component): 15 to 30 units per acre.
The City of Mounds View seeks to achieve Mixed Use Districts by:
• Allowing development of multiple, complementary uses that support one another.
• Promoting a walkable, sustainable development pattern that supports alternative forms of transportation (walking, biking, and transit) while still accommodating the automobile.


Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442

Design for Natural Resource Conservation {BP no.10}

2 star - Action 3:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2019
Implementation details:
Mounds View Code Chapter 1127 – Tree Preservation and Landscaping requires all development to identify, assess and preserve trees/woodlots and other natural amenities in the development process.
Further, Code Chapter 605 – Shade Tree Disease and Pest Control “maintains” those assets after the development occurs into perpetuity.
Finally, the City has recently completed identifying and mapping all of our Ash and Elm trees on public property as well as inventorying known Ash and Elm on private property. In the winter of 2019/2020 we have removed over 100 hundred diseased or “at-risk” trees as we are high risk due to infections in the community and number of trees. 20 Trees were replanted last Spring (2019) with a similar number scheduled for the Spring of 2020.
Our previous comprehensive plan as well as our proposed draft comprehensive plan has numerous goals to preserve and establish vegetative buffers, enhance appearance of properties as well as preservation of natural resources. Finally, the City is a recognized “Tree City USA”.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442

Transportation Transportation

Efficient City Fleets {BP no.13}

2 star - Action 2:

Right-size/down-size the city fleet with the most fuel-efficient vehicles that are of an optimal size and capacity for their intended functions.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2016
Implementation details:
All utility pick-up trucks in the Public Works department (Streets and Water) that used to be ordered with 8' beds and 8 cylinder engines are all converted to 6' beds and 6 cylinder eco-boost engines. This has been/continues to occur since 2016/2017
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Increased fuel economy and reduced emissions
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442

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:
At their March 9, 2020 Council meeting the council adopted a resolution amending their purchasing policy to include Section 2.9 which states

ENVIRONMENTAL PURCHASING
The City supports and recognizes sustainable practices focusing on cost savings and energy use reductions, including those pertaining to purchasing. Therefore, the City shall to the extent possible and practicable purchase only EnergyStar and EPEAT certified equipment and appliances. Purchase U. S. EPA WaterSense certified products when possible and practible and, whenever possible, the City shall only purchase paper containing at least 30% postconsumer recycled content
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
New PW building opened in 2019, all appliances Energy Star certified (stove, two refrigerators, microwave, DW). Police Department remodel in 2019 - washer and dryer. Replacement fridge in Office area (2018) Energy Star and Commercial Ice Maker at Community Center (2018)
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442
1 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: 2019
Implementation details:
In 2019, the city moved to digital council packets with one council member moving to an IPad during meetings. All staff went digital and we eliminated the “Public Book”. Instead of printing 20 copies we now print 5.
Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, the City immediately established a work from home policy for all able to fulfill requirements. As restrictions ease, we are continuing with the work from home for those employees able to do so with no less than 5 able to do so on a regular basis thus reducing travel and traffic.
Due to COVID -19 Pandemic, the City has upgraded their online meeting capabilities and going forward, will continue to let individuals participate digitally thus reducing travel and traffic.
The City hosts a spring and fall clean up/recycling event and has added a Fixit Clinic as well.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Reduction in copies made
Increase in virtual meetings (100% of council and commission meetings are virtual)
25% of employees able to work from home are working from home
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442

Community Forests and Soils {BP no.16}

2 star - Action 1:

Certify as a Tree City USA.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 1987
Implementation details:
City of Mounds View has been a certified 30 year Tree City, the current 2017 Forestry budget is $43,300. In addition, there is a citizen's commission, Parks, Recreation and Forestry Commission that addresses urban forestry within the City of Mounds View.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nick Henly (City staff) | Nick.Henly@moundsviewmn.org | 763-717-4020
2 star - Action 6:

Build community capacity to protect existing trees by one or more of:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2018
Implementation details:
City is currently posting for a Public Works dedicated Forestry position. Previously, the forestry position was secondary to Parks Maintenance but will not be wholly dedicated to forestry efforts. We have also invested in our Lead Park Maintenance position specific to him attaining his Arborist designation. Our GIS technician has created and is maintaining and Access Database and accompanying map of all known diseased trees and working on a map of all known trees on public property. The County Adopted Ordinance 945 in 2018 - Shade Tree Disease and Pest Control as we have both Ash and Elms (Borer) along with Red Oak (Oak Wilt), and are gearing up for the predicted onslaught of virus attacking Maple Trees that is working its way westward.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Educate residents on urban forestry best practices, disease and control
Maintain up to date inventory of all diseased trees
Remove diseased trees when required
Treat and monitor all trees exhibiting characteristics consistent with best practices for treatment
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
DNR (grants)
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442

Stormwater Management {BP no.17}

3 star - Action 5:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2009
Implementation details:
Beginning in 2008 the City of Mounds View undertook a comprehensive Street and Utility Improvement Program (Program) that reconstructed approximately 26 miles (roughly 68%) of existing city streets. As part of this program the city installed numerous infiltration basins (rain gardens) throughout the Program area. The basins allowed for infiltration as well as reduced the amount of stormwater entering the underground system. The city and Rice Creek Watershed District inspect these basins on a regular basis. The city is in the process of developing a citizen education program to assist residents with maintenance and upkeep of these features.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Rice Creek Watershed District
For more information contact:
Nick Henly (City staff) | Nick.Henly@moundsviewmn.org | 763-717-4020
2 star - Action 6:

Improve smart-salting by reducing chloride use in winter maintenance and dust suppressants to prevent permanent surfacewater and groundwater pollution.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2019
Implementation details:
Mounds View Operates three plow trucks during winter storm clearing operations. All three are equipped with 110 gallon brine tanks with one truck replaced in 2019 having a more efficient applicator along with a front, belly, and wing plow that removes more snow than trucks without the wing (front and belly only) further reducing the amount of salt/brine needed. In 2021 we will be replacing a second truck. The last truck is several more years out.

We also send our PW Director, Supervisor and any additional staff available to annual conference/seminar in managing/reducing salt during winter street clearing plow operations.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Reduction in chloride/salt onto roadways and eventually into storm/ground water
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442

Parks and Trails {BP no.18}

2 star - Action 1:

Make improvements within your city's system of parks, offroad trails and open spaces.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2016
Implementation details:
The City of Mounds View has completed two segments of trail along Mounds View Boulevard (CSAH 10) in 2016. These two segments provided a connection along a busy, divided four lane highway. The first segment connected existing trail on the north side of Mounds View Blvd that ended at Red Oak Drive to newly constructed sidewalk at Groveland Road. The second segment connected an existing section of trail on the south side of Mounds View Blvd that ended at Edgewood Drive to existing trail at Woodale Drive. This trail project also provided new LED lighting fixtures along the trail to allow for use throughout the day.

The city also constructed a sidewalk link from the intersection of Hillview Road and Lois Drive south and east along Hillview Road to Quincy Street and the then south to County Road I. Thus providing a better alternative than the street to students walking to school at Pinewood Elementary School at the south east intersection of Quincy and CR I.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nick Henly (City staff) | Nick.Henly@moundsviewmn.org | 763-717-4020
2 star - Action 2:

Plan and budget for a network of parks, green spaces, water features and trails for areas where new development is planned.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2019
Implementation details:
Mounds View is fully developed, however, we have been activlty engaged in "Re-Development" since 2007. Those efforts are starting to come to fruition with completion of 60 until workforce housing in 2019 and ground breaking of 128 unit market rate apartment scheduled to open October 2020. City also acquired blighted property on south end of town and in process of receiving final proposals (senior or more workforce). Additionally, significant turnover in population from older/senior to families as well as infill and lot splits.

To that end, City rebuilt/upgraded Tennis Courts (2 venues) to include pickle ball, constructed a new splash pad with a recirculating system, replaced playground equipment at City Hall Park, and placed order for a Challenge Course to be located at City Hall Park along with Splash Pad.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
More livable community but with respect to Splash Pad, conscious decision to use recirculating system versus use and discharge. Tank typically lasts a week before needs to be discharged into sanitary sewer system.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442

Efficient Water and Wastewater Systems {BP no.20}

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: Started 2017 and final completion of final treatment plant will be 2021 as we cannot take all off line at same time
Implementation details:
In 2017 Staff sought vendors to assess and rehabilitate pumps, wells, and treatments plants for municipal water system with AE2S being chosen. In 2018/2019 AE2S conducted engineering review and testing. In 2019 AE2S prepared documents based on evaluation and testing and at the December 9, 2019 Council meeting council will approve bids (that were opened November 27, 2019) to completely rehabilitate all wells, pumps and three treatment plants with state of the art technology, especially in the control and security components. The entire project is estimated to cost $6.6 million with existing water utility rates to cover the cost of the project (will be selling bonds but rates are already in place to pay back).

2019 - Lift Station at Groveland road was converted from diesel to Natural Gas
Approved for 2020 - Lift Station at Bronson will be converted to Natural Gas (funding is in utility fund, RFP will be let first quarter 2020)
Approved for 2020 - Funding approved to replace diesel back up generator or reservoir, well, and treatment plant with Natural Gas. Replacement to occur in 2020.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Efficiency, Reliability, greater ability to monitor and control. More precise use of chemicals, lower utility costs.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
AE2S
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442
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: 2017
Implementation details:
The Mounds View City Code - Title 907 makes is unlawful to discharge storm water into the sanitary sewer system. Connections from sump systems to the sanitary system were inspected within they last 10 years. Public Works Operators review sanitary lines via camera on a routine basis with a goal of inspecting approximately 1/4 to 1/3 of the city annually. During this inspection the operators will regularly note any areas where I/I is apparent as well as any services that appear to be discharging clean, clear water on a regular basis.

I/I is being addressed by an ongoing sanitary sewer lining project that lines appoximately 5,000 feet per year. The goal is to complete the lining of all vitrified clay tile pipe by 2028. Those areas exhibiting the highest I/I are being addressed first. In addition, as our street program continues those areas with sewer in poor condition are seeing the VCT replaced with PVC sewer pipe to eliminate the I/I issues experienced in the past.

Additionally, the City implemented its point of sale ordinance requiring homeowners to scope and repair their lateral sewer line at the point of sale, since January, over 65 homes have had their lines scoped and many repaired. Climate change has caused more frequent rain events with heavier amounts which, via infiltration can cause sewer back ups. This program will work to prevent that. Lastly, with the COVID-19 initial phase coming to an end, we will be starting to advocate voluntary scoping and lining and making available zero interest loans to homeowners who rehabilitate their lines.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.mounds-view.mn.us/vertical/sites/%7B9DACB450-86B3-4304-946D-6016EF70E9E3%7D/uploads/0900_-_Mounds_View_Code_Title_900_-_Public_Ways_and_Property.pdf
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442
2 star - Action 7:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2019
Implementation details:
As a component of our Water Preservation Program - H2OPP, we have increased our top tier water rate by 30% and our wastewater rate is tied to that same formula. Additionally, we just completed a pilot project in which we installed meters in the waste water line at one of our manufactured home parks and will be sending written correspondence to them advising them of our findings (significant difference between municipal water sold and amount going into wastewater (increase) system. They will be required to formulate a plan to address the difference (suspect 90% infiltration) or we will reinstall the meters and begin imposing new fee based on meter calculations. We have a total of three manufactured home parks and 6/7 large multi-family complexes and we will continue implementing the same program with all of them in 2020 and until done.

Thus, combination of the increased Tier rate and potential rate increase for manufactured parks and others are designed to reduce use.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Reduction in amount of municipal water pumped
Reduction in I & I and subsequent reduction in flow to Met Council as tabulated by meter.
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442

Resilient Economic & Community Development Resilient Economic and Community Development

Benchmarks and Community Engagement {BP no.24}

2 star - Action 1:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2020
Implementation details:
The city established the Mounds View Sustainability Commission. The Sustainability Commission advises the Mounds View City Council, Mounds View City staff, and the Mounds View community on policies, practices, procedures and proposals that relate to the sustainable use and management of environmental resources that include air, water, energy, land and ecological resources, and waste. The Commission helps to ensure that such resources will be sustained and continue to provide for a high quality of life for present and future generations. They will be responsible for lead, coordinate and report on the implementation of best practices.
Mounds View currently records all green activity on the City's website. There is also a GreenStep Cities poster located in the lobby of City Hall.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442
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: 2019
Implementation details:
In 2018/2019 the City Council conducted 5 retreats dedicated to the creation of a three year strategic plan that was adopted and covers the time period of 2020 thru 2022. Quarterly reports on all measure are provided to council with an annual written report presented and published. Within the plan are numerous environmental sustainability goals such as reduction of INI and municipal water use.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442

Green Business Development {BP no.25}

2 star - Action 1:

Grow new/emerging green businesses and green jobs through targeted assistance and new workforce development.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2019
Implementation details:
The City of Mounds View has taken the lead on redeveloping two of our largest commercial properties, acquiring and combing three contiguous lots for one and purchasing outright another but working with two adjacent landowners to address growth and environmental needs. In both cases, the city took the lead in demolition and site clean-up resulting in shovel ready properties.

The City of Mounds View has links on its webpage to business assistance provided by Xcel Energy which is the energy providers within the City. Programs are designed to conserve energy and save operational costs. Information and programming includes rebates, energy audits & studies, and advice on energy efficient new/improved facilities.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442
2 star - Action 3:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
Mounds View is one of nine partner cities that comprise Twin Cities Gateway, a Convention/Tourist/Sports Marketing consortium that promotes various attractions, activities and venues in our nine communities via a web page, tourism pamphlets, and substantive digital marketing campaigns.
Mounds View specifically promotes green tourism highlighting/spotlighting our Tree City designation and being part of and access to Rice Creek North-West Trail. We also promote our recently constructed eco-friendly splash pad and Silver View Park which features numerous outdoor recreation venues (baseball, soccer, playground, picnic area, disc golf, basketball, and pavilion with restroom) including a paved path around the Lake and the only North Metro Disc Golf Course.
The TC Gateway site provides tourist looking to adventure in hiking, biking, fishing, in-line skating, athletic recreation, or cross country skiing – the opportunities to do so by providing support for the visitor by sharing area restaurants and hotels along with our unique Filipino Village Market.
Additionally, the City; working in cooperation with Ramsey County this past year, connected our city trail system to their county system at the northeast portion of Mounds View. With the scheduled completion of a trail connection in the South West quadrant of the city occurring in 2022, the bike/trail system throughout the entire city will be complete and connected to both Ramsey County (NE and SE corners of City) and Anoka County on the NW and SW corners. This information is/will also be included in the TC Gateway promotion program.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.tcgateway.com/communities/mounds-view/
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442
2 star - Action 4:

Strengthen value-added businesses utilizing local "waste" material.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2020
Implementation details:
The city’s brush and yard waste drop-off is available for residents, city crews, and the city’s contractors to bring in material. The leaves collected each fall from residents are composted at a city site and then made available for residents and also for landscaping on city property.
The City of Mounds View promotes recycling and composting per each quarter in our newsletter as well as on our website. We have a recycling coordinator that works with our county to provide recycling books/newsletters yearly to all residents along with kitchen size compost bins and reusable grocery bags.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442

Renewable Energy {BP no.26}

1 star - Action 5:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2015
Implementation details:
As part of an Energy Saving Partnership with Trane, the City of Mounds View installed photovoltaic (PV) solar panels on top of City Hall and the Mounds View Community Center. The total installed capacity is 80kW between these two facilities. Generation statistics are displayed at each of these facilities via a monitor in the entry way. The city has realized savings based on this installed capacity since September 2016.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
2015 solar array installed on Community Center resulting in a 30% reduction in energy costs.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nick Henly (City staff) | Nick.Henly@moundsviewmn.org | 763-717-4020

Local Food {BP no.27}

1 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: 2015
Implementation details:
In 2015, Ordinance 903 (Chickens/Ducks) and 908 (Honeybees) were adopted by the Mounds View Council. Ordinance 903 requires annual renewal, Ordinance 908 is ongoing (but can be revoked for cause). Both ordinances have minimal regulatory provisions as a mechanism to encourage activity. To date we have four of each.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Increase number of residents growing own food or supporting pollinators
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442

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: 2020
Implementation details:
As of 2021, the city is using a mass communication system enabled through our web site provider - Revize; that allows residents to sign up for alerts from the city regarding emergencies and other critical or important events (development, zoning, etc.) and receive the alerts via email or text, or both if the resident/business owner so chooses. All alerts will occur thru the web page which will provide complete details. The web page is linked with our social media platform which will also alert residents who have connected to those forums.

Approximately one year ago the City gatherer representatives from Police, Fire, Public Works, Finance, HR and Administration and undertook a complete re-writing of our Mounds View Emergency Operations Plan which was done in concert and consultation with Ramsey County Emergency Operation Plan. The effort culminated this week with the actual publication of the updated EOP. In combination with our Comprehensive Plan which includes storm water management - the two work to prevent or limit risk while simultaneously mitigating when extreme weather events occur.

The Spring Lake Park – Blaine – Mounds View Fire Department provides a district wide fire and emergency prevention program with special focus on at risk populations such as seniors, manufactured home communities (11 total with 4,000+ units. The fire department works with stakeholders such as daycares, nursing homes, long-term care facilities and schools for emergency response.

In 2019 and again this year, the City and Fire Department partnered with the Red Cross to install smoke alarms in every unit in a specific manufactured home park with two of the three now completed. We have worked with those parks to ensure there emergency shelters are maintained, code compliant, and accessible in times of emergencies.

Due to the joint fire department (SBM) the City of Mounds View has significant focus and resources on emergency communication as SBM is dispatched by Anoka County but all 911 calls for Mounds View originate in Ramsey County. To ensure no interruption of service, communication delays, or conflicts in communication between fire and public works and/or police we have increased training, back up radios, programmed all radios to scan the other agency frequencies, and conduct joint training exercises and meet regularly as needed.

The City and Fire Department also share premise information specific to known hazards, owner contact, and property history. A "Joint Command/Communication" vehicle is maintained by SBM Fire but available and utilized by all three police agencies as needed. The vehicle has state of the art computer, communication, telescoping camera, internet, satellite phone, First Net, and weather station equipment.


Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442
1 star - Action 3:

Increase social connectedness through engagement, capacity building, public investment, and opportunities for economically vulnerable residents to improve their economic prosperity and resilience to climate change.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2017
Implementation details:
Starting in 2017 and continuing thru today and into the future, the City Council has taken deliberate and intentional actions to increase community engagement. With the hiring of a new police chief, outreach was defined as a primary goal. From a singular event – Nite to Unite, Mounds View PD now engages in 10 separate outreach events, including the highly popular Daddy Daughter Dance.
In addition to the 10 events (Cone with a Cop, Climbing Rockwall, Shop with a Cop, Street Hockey, Bowl with a Cop, Nite to Unite Pre Party Veterans Day Memorial, Daddy Daughter), MVPD launched a “New Americans Academy” to work with ELS students in educating them about public safety and the judicial system and building trust as part of that effort.
Since 2019 we have the host of Ghana Fest and just prior to the onset of COVID, hosted the Ghana Independence Festival. Also in 2019, MVPD created a Neighborhood Resource Officer to lend particular assistance to multi-family jurisdictions and in partnership with Code/Fire Enforcement, addressed and worked to resolve tenant-landlord disputes. The vast majority of residents are economically vulnerable.
In January of 2021, the City will operate their own Parks and Recreation program after a 21 year partnership with the YMCA. While our partnership was fruitful for both, all programming was Y oriented with a new direction in which we continue the best programs, but also embark on new ones. Examples of this include a partnership with Quincy House for teen activities in our Center and a new program targeted specifically for seniors.
Investments made by council include upgrades to the community center and construction of a new city hall park with a splash pad. The Community Center daily fee is set at $1 for residents to encourage community engagement while the splash pad has no fee associated.
Lastly, the Council continues to make public investments in critical infrastructure (roads, water, sewer, parks) but also in workforce housing with one project opening fall of 2019 and a second project under development.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Nyle Zikmund (City Staff) | nyle.zikmund@moundsviewmn.org | 612-860-7442