City Detail

Background Information

City of Stillwater
County: Washington
Population: 19693
GreenStep City category: A
Full-time equivalent city staff (approx.): 92
Participating township, county, school:

GreenStep Coordinator

Tim Gladhill
City Staff
tgladhill@ci.stillwater.mn.us
651-430-8818
City web page relating to sustainability/GreenStep activities:
GreenStep City resolution: Click here to view the file.
GreenStep City status and date: STEP 2 ( )

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
2022 - click to view assessment

Best Practice Actions Underway and Completed

Completed actions are denoted by stars.

Total completed actions: 45
1 star actions: 14
2 star actions: 19
3 star actions: 12

Buildings and Lighting Buildings and Lighting

Efficient Existing Public Buildings {BP no.1}

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: 2020
Implementation details:
1. The lights in the parking ramp have been replaced with low cost lighting
2. Every time a light burns out at City Hall and Public Works, Facilities Manager replaces it with a low-cost light
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Shawn Sanders (City staff) | Ssanders@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8835

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: 2018
Implementation details:
The street lights are transitioning over to LED lights. Last year, in Stillwater, over 600 lights were switched to LED, and currently around 50% of its streetlights are LED lights. In addition, the city only owns one traffic light and that has been switched over to LED.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Shawn Sanders (City staff) | Ssanders@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8835
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: 2019
Implementation details:
The Stillwater Department of Public Works is currently undertaking a lighting project in 2 lots that will be using LED solar-powered lighting. In addition, the DPW just recently replaced a speed display sign to utilize solar power.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Shawn Sanders (City staff) | Ssanders@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8835

Building Redevelopment {BP no.5}

2 star - Action 1:

Adopt an historic preservation ordinance/regulations and encourage adaptive reuse.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 1987
Implementation details:
Ordinance 664 amends Chapter 22 of Stillwater's Code to include, that every reasonable effort shall be made to provide a compatible use for a property which requires minimal alteration of the building, structure, or site and its environment, or to use a property for its originally intended purposes.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Abbi Wittman (City staff) | Awittman@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8822
1 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:
In the 1990’s the Stillwater Area Public Schools (ISD 834) school district sold the old Junior High buildings and the city assisted
in relocating a local business, Cub Foods, from the historic Lumber Exchange Building
to the west wing of the Junior High complex.

In addition, last year Oak Park Heights Elementary School was converted to a school district office site and alternative education uses.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821
2 star - Action 5:

Adopt development/design standards and programs that facilitate infill, redevelopment, and adaptable buildings.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2006
Implementation details:
Ordinance 965 establishes a Neighborhood Conservation District within the city. The Neighborhood Conservation District is established to help protect and preserve the unique character of Stillwater's residential
neighborhoods, by regulating and providing Design Guidelines for new infill development within the District.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Abbi Wittman (City staff) | Awittman@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8822

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: 2010
Implementation details:
In 2010 Stillwater adopted the City of Stillwater 2030 Comprehensive Plan.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.ci.stillwater.mn.us/vertical/Sites/%7B5BFEF821-C140-4887-AEB5-99440411EEFD%7D/uploads/2030_Comprehensive_Plan.pdf
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821
2 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: 1990
Implementation details:
The comprehensive plan is repeatedly mentioned in the City Codes. Specifically in Article 5.11 it states: "The Council shall adopt a Comprehensive Plan and adopt zoning and other land use control ordinances that are consistent with the plan. The Council shall adopt development regulations by ordinance to implement the plan."
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://library.municode.com/mn/stillwater/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CH1CH_ARTVTHCO_5.11PLRECO
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821
1 star - Action 3:

Include requirements in comprehensive and/or other plans for intergovernmental coordination addressing regional land use and watershed / wellhead impacts, infrastructure, transportation, economic development and city/regional services.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2010
Implementation details:
Chapter 3- Natural Resources in the 2030 Comprehensive Plan emphasizes the importance of intergovernmental coordination for
optimal ecological function.
Chapter 9- Transportation in the 2030 Comprehensive Plan recognizes the need for developing a coordinated transportation system that provides for local as well as area-wide traffic.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.ci.stillwater.mn.us/vertical/Sites/%7B5BFEF821-C140-4887-AEB5-99440411EEFD%7D/uploads/2030_Comprehensive_Plan.pdf
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821
2 star - Action 4:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2010
Implementation details:
In the 2030 Comprehensive Plan Chapter 3- Natural Resources the first goal stated is to create a natural resource open space system that preserves protects or restores environmental resources within the city.

In The 2030 Comprehensive Plan it calls to maintain inventory of all ravines and remnant lands in the existing city and develop a policy regarding ravine management that balances ravine usage amongst natural resource protection, public utility and open space/recreation opportunities.

The 2030 Comprehensive Plan further talks about how the city can use the NRI information as a basis for updating its current environmental ordinances as necessary, or for developing new approaches for protecting and enhancing its natural resources from future growth, changes in land use, and development of infrastructure.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.ci.stillwater.mn.us/vertical/Sites/%7B5BFEF821-C140-4887-AEB5-99440411EEFD%7D/uploads/2030_Comprehensive_Plan.pdf
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821

Resilient City Growth {BP no.7}

3 star - Action 1:

Eliminate barriers and actively encourage higher density housing by including in the city zoning ordinance and zoning map:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 1990
Implementation details:
In stillwater the city codes has regulations to increase density in accordance to the comprehensive plan. The city has a zoning district called Cottage Residential, which allows for 7.25 units per acre. The city has a zoning district called Cove Townhouse Residential, which allows for 14.5 units per acre.The city also has a zoning district for 2-family homes. The city code Section 31-210 (b) 1. lays out the various options for PUDs, which include they shall have a density in excess of 25 dwelling units per acre; or shall, when fully developed, contain upon it at least two principal buildings.

Also, downtown Stillwater is zoned Commercial Business District, and allows for mixed use development to provide a higher density and pedestrian access to goods & services.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://library.municode.com/mn/stillwater/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CH31ZOOR_ARTIIADEN_DIV3SPAPPRRE_S31-210PLUNDEPE
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821
1 star - Action 2:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 1990
Implementation details:
In Section 31-315 of the city's code it permits accessory dwelling units as an allowable use in Traditional Residential zoning districts.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://library.municode.com/mn/stillwater/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CH31ZOOR_ARTIIIBAZODIRE_DIV2REZODI_S31-315ALUSREDI
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821

Mixed Uses {BP no.8}

1 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: 2018
Implementation details:
The City of Stillwater and the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee participated in a community planning process, which presented the future land use for a mixed use highway district along Hwy 36. The planning process included public input as well as input from various interest groups.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821
3 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:
The Land Use Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan
designates the Downtown area as “Mixed Use”,
which accurately reflects the mix of commercial and residential uses currently in place in Downtown Stillwater. The city has undertaken various projects over the last few years to allow for apartments to be integrated into the district. A great example of this Stillwater Mills, which is a mix of apartments and offices within the Downtown Commercial Business District.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821

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

1 star - Action 1:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 1980
Implementation details:
The West Business Park District is a corridor along Highway 36, that has established design guidelines and goals. Design guidelines have been developed to ensure consistent quality design throughout the district. The guidelines are used to review new development proposals and any proposed changes.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821

Design for Natural Resource Conservation {BP no.10}

3 star - Action 1:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2005
Implementation details:
In 2005 the Stillwater Annexation Area AUAR was completed, which studied and created a plan for the orderly and responsible development of land annexed from Stillwater Township. The management plan created from this emphasized protection of natural resources. In particular,
diverting storm water from the Annexation Area
away from Brown's Creek, a state-designated trout stream, to avoid impacts from development of the Annexation Area.

In the 2040 Comprehensive Plan the city makes recommendations for city code revisions for natural resource protection, such as requiring project proposers to identify all natural resource data from the NRI as part of the data submission for a project. This data could then be used to identify any necessary setbacks or alignments of potential greenway corridors.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821
2 star - Action 5:

Preserve environmentally sensitive, community-valued land by placing a conservation easement on city lands, and by encouraging/funding private landowners to place land in conservation easements.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The city has placed a conservation easement on long narrow stretch of property along the St. Croix River that is public land. The property has a concept plan that has been approved and a park (called Aiple Park) is going to be built, which will provide residents access to the river.
With the development of Liberty on the Lake and Legends, there was a 50% set aside of pervious area. These were in the form of public open space and private easements.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821
3 star - Action 7:

Support and protect wildlife through habitat rehabilitation, preservation and recognition programs.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
On June 15, 2021 Stillwater became a Bird City. We will continue to promote this to drive environmental tourism. Hosted Migratory Bird Festival on May 15, 2021 at Pioneer Park in Stillwater that was attended by over 150 people.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.sustainablestillwatermn.org/post/city-of-stillwater-officially-to-be-designated-bird-city-by-minnesota-audubon-society
For more information contact:
Tim Gladhill (City Staff) | tgladhill@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 6514308821

Transportation Transportation

Living & Complete Streets {BP no.11}

2 star - Action 5:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2015
Implementation details:
The 2015 Trail Plan maps out all the existing trails and bike paths, and then identifies gaps and areas of oppurtunity to add trails and bike paths in the future. An example of how Stillwater has has remedied street-trail gaps between city streets and off-road trails to better facilitate biking and walking is the Mulberry Ravine Trail. This trail provided connectivity between the north-west side of town and downtown. It also provided additional connectivity to the Browns Creek trail.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821

Mobility Options {BP no.12}

2 star - Action 1:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2015
Implementation details:
As part of our Stillwater Trails Master Plan, more bike parking has been installed downtown in recent years.
In the last couple of years, the city installed a bike station, that includes an air pump and associated tools, at the south-east edge of Lake McKusick.
Also, there is a park and ride lot at the St. Croix Valley Rec. Center in Stillwater. In addition to providing people who car pool with a central location to meet up and park their cars, the park and ride is also by the bus stop for the 294 bus to downtown St. Paul.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.ci.stillwater.mn.us/vertical/sites/%7B5BFEF821-C140-4887-AEB5-99440411EEFD%7D/uploads/Final_draft.pdf
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821
1 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: 2018
Implementation details:
As part of an effort for Stillwater to achieve certification as a Bicycle Friendly community, a Bike To School Day program was initiated in 2018 at Lily Lake Elementary. The program followed all of the guiding principles and planning prescribed by National (and Minnesota) Safe Routes to School programs, with its primary focus being safety.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
An estimated 70 to 80 kids biked to school on Bike To School Day in 2018. This year the program will be running again at Lily Lake Elementary, and additionally the program will be initiated at one more school in Stillwater.
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821
1 star - Action 6:

Add/expand public transit service.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Community Thread has partnered with DARTS, a nonprofit that serves older adults and their families in Dakota County, to bring a circulator shuttle loop to the Stillwater and Oak Park Heights area. The Community Thread Connector Loop runs every Monday from 10am – 3pm, with scheduled stops at senior housing complexes, area businesses, retail stores and Community Thread’s Stillwater location. The Community Thread Connector Loop is open to all. Riders pay a $3 (cash only) fare for an all-day pass and can get on and off the bus at any stop along the loop. Planned stops will be offered on an hourly loop schedule, with the flexibility to request a stop nearby. Riders who live within 2 blocks of the bus route may also request to be picked up at their home by calling DARTS on Friday at 2 pm prior to the Monday service.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://communitythreadmn.org/community-services/community-thread-connector-loop/
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821

Environmental Management Environmental Management

Sustainable Purchasing {BP no.15}

2 star - Action 1:

Adopt a sustainable purchasing policy or administrative guidelines/practices directing that the city purchase at least:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2019
Implementation details:
Resolution 2019-140 passed, which requires Departments to factor sustainability into their purchasing decisions.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Tom McCarty (City staff) | tmccarty@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8800
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: 2016
Implementation details:
The city currently has 25-year deals with two different solar garden facilities; which will equate to 28.5% of city wide energy used by city government being generated by solar sources. In 2016 the city committed to the City Hall being powered completely by 3rd party solar energy (7.5% of city wide energy). The city is currently in the process of switching the Rec Center and Lily Lake Arena to 3rd party solar energy. Last month, in March 2019, the city started its first of two phases to switch over to solar power at these sites; and the second phase will commence this Fall, which will result in an additional 21% of city energy powered by solar.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Tom McCarty (City staff) | tmccarty@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8800

Community Forests and Soils {BP no.16}

3 star - Action 2:

Adopt best practices for urban tree planting/quality; require them in private developments and/or use them in at least one development project.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 1990
Implementation details:
Section 31-522 of city code lays out regulations to protect trees on slopes and requires a tree protection plan must be submitted for concept PUD or preliminary subdivision plan review, or be included with submission of a grading plan if not a part of a subdivision or PUD.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://library.municode.com/mn/stillwater/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CH31ZOOR_ARTVPEST_DIV4CORELLDI_S31-522TRFOPR
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821
3 star - Action 5:

Adopt a tree preservation or native landscaping ordinance.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 1990
Implementation details:
Section 32-522 Subv. 5. (g) (2). of city code states that when tree replacement is required, "greater than 50 percent of the replacement trees must be species indigenous to the area."
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://library.municode.com/mn/stillwater/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CH31ZOOR_ARTVPEST_DIV4CORELLDI_S31-522TRFOPR
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821
3 star - Action 6:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2020
Implementation details:
The City of Stillwater adopted an Emerald Ash Borer management plan.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.ci.stillwater.mn.us/city-government/departments/public-works/forestry/emerald-ash-borer-info
For more information contact:
Shawn Sanders (City staff) | Ssanders@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8835

Stormwater Management {BP no.17}

3 star - Action 1:

Adopt and use Minnesota's Minimal Impact Design Standards (MIDS).

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2019
Implementation details:
City Council approved MIDS
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.ci.stillwater.mn.us/home/showdocument?id=724
For more information contact:
Shawn Sanders (City staff) | Ssanders@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8835
3 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: 2008
Implementation details:
The city of Stillwater earned the Blue Star Award.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Shawn Sanders (City staff) | Ssanders@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8835

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:
The City of Stillwater is constantly making improvements to its extensive system of parks, trails, and open space. This year, 2019, the budget allocates $400,000 for maintenance and improvement projects for the parks system. In 2018 the Department of Public Works improved the lighting system for their basketball and tennis courts at Lily Lake, replacing all the lights with LED lights. In addition, in 2018 Palmer Park was reseeded and an irrigation system was installed.
The city is currently planning 2 major park projects: Bridge View Park and Aiple Park. Aiple Park will be built within a long narrow stretch along the St. Croix River in North Stillwater. This area formerly belonged to a private owner, but has been purchased by the city, and will provide residents with access to the river and provide residents with a park to enjoy in Downtown Stillwater for perpetuity. The Browns Creek Trail that opened in the fall of 2014 runs parallel with the property to
connect downtown Stillwater to the Gateway Trail.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Shawn Sanders (City staff) | Ssanders@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8835
2 star - Action 3:

Achieve minimum levels of city green space and maximize the percent within a ten-minute walk of community members.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Within the city of Stillwater 32% of the city’s land area is parks and open spaces (16.4% is open water and 15.6% is on land. When just including the parks and open space on land there is 35 acres per 1,000 residents.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821
1 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:
The city of Stillwater has implemented a pest management plan.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Shawn Sanders (City staff) | Ssanders@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8835

Surface Water {BP no.19}

2 star - Action 3:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2007
Implementation details:
A management plan was created by Wenck Associates for the city of Stillwater, to assess the current conditions of Lake Lily and Lake Mckusick and to identify opportunities for improving the lakes’ ecological, aesthetic, and recreational opportunities. The plan laid out target and the recommended management activities to achieve these targets.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.mscwmo.org/wp-content/management-plans/ManagementPlans_LilyLake_McKusickLake_2007.PDF
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821
1 star - Action 4:

Adopt a shoreland ordinance for all river and lake shoreland areas.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 1990
Implementation details:
Stillwater has established a shorleland management overlay district. Section 31-402 of city code regulates all Shoreland Management overlay districts.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821

Septic Systems {BP no.21}

3 star - Action 3:

Clarify/establish one or more responsible management entities (RMEs) for the proper design, siting, installation, operation, monitoring and maintenance of septic systems.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The city of Stillwater building department runs inspections on septic tank connections before they are buried. Washington County monitors the maintenance of septic systems by sending out letters to residents telling them it is time to have their septic tank checked and/or emptied.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Cindy Shilts (City staff) | cshilts@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8825
2 star - Action 4:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2015
Implementation details:
Stillwater has adopted the County's septic system ordinance, as stated in Sec. 29-9:
"Washington County's subsurface sewage treatment system regulations, as set forth in Ordinance No. 179 (Washington County Development Code Chapter 4) as in effect on August 18, 2015 is hereby adopted by reference in its entirety, except as specifically modified by this chapter."
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://library.municode.com/mn/stillwater/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CH29SE
For more information contact:
Cindy Shilts (City staff) | cshilts@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8825

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: 2019
Implementation details:
With the help of Sustainable Stillwater, there is a Greenstep committee that meets the first Monday of every month. We have agendas to follow and notes are taken. We review current and future City projects, sustainability issues, and other goals.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Abbi Wittman (City staff) | Awittman@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8822
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: 2021
Implementation details:
The City continues to promote Greenstep goals and sustainability practices in it's quarterly newsletter.

The City maintains a webpage that talks about Greensteps and provides residents a link to the site.

Sustainable Stillwater is constantly posting updates on its webpage and social media accounts regarding Greensteps.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
We've developed community interest. Been able to gather volunteers. Spread important messages.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.sustainablestillwatermn.org/greensteps
For more information contact:
Tim Gladhill (City Staff) | tgladhill@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 6514308821

Green Business Development {BP no.25}

1 star - Action 3:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
On June 15, 2021 Stillwater became a Bird City. We will continue to promote this to drive environmental tourism
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.sustainablestillwatermn.org/post/city-of-stillwater-officially-to-be-designated-bird-city-by-minnesota-audubon-society
For more information contact:
Tim Gladhill (City Staff) | tgladhill@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 6514308821
2 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: 2021
Implementation details:
The volunteer group, Sustainable Stillwater, created a Green Business Directory.

The Green Business Directory (www.greenstillwater.org), a project of Sustainable Stillwater MN, lets shoppers align their personal values with the power of the purse by choosing businesses with green, sustainable, and resilient products and practices.

The Green Business Directory is an online public resource listing environmentally and socially conscious businesses in Washington County or that serve Washington County. Businesses must apply to be in the Directory by filling out an application that has strict criteria about their products and practices from GreenAmerica.org.
​
If qualified, businesses receive gold, silver, or bronze awards, a listing in the Directory, and social media promotion. Their “report cards” display their qualifications publicly, so consumers can learn all about them. If applicants do not qualify, their info is kept private and we work with them to help them improve.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://www.sustainablestillwatermn.org/gbd
For more information contact:
Jason Ludwigson (Contractor) | JDLudwigson@gmail.com | 5073139633

Local Food {BP no.27}

2 star - Action 1:

Protect working landscapes - agriculture and forestry - by adopting an ordinance or incentivizing one or more of the following:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 1990
Implementation details:
The City of Stillwater adopted an ordinance for an Agricultural Preservation District. The purpose of the A-P district shall be to maintain and enhance agricultural operations and preserve agricultural lands utilized for crop production and to serve as a holding zone for lands where phased urban expansion will occur. The preservation of agricultural land is intended to prevent urban sprawl, control the public costs of providing urban services and reduce urban/rural conflicts which arise as a result of premature development of rural areas. The A-P district is further intended to preserve open space and natural resource areas.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://library.municode.com/mn/stillwater/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CH31ZOOR_ARTIIIBAZODIRE_DIV2REZODI_S31-302AGPRDI
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821
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: 1990
Implementation details:
The city of Stillwater permits bee keeping in all zoning district (Sec. 27-3). The city of Stillwater allows for the keeping of chickens on all properties greater than 3 acres and in properties of all sizes in RB and RA zoning districts provided they obtain a chicken keeping permit (Sec. 31-514).
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821
2 star - Action 3:

Create, assist with and promote local food production/distribution within the city:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2012
Implementation details:
The North Hill Community Garden is located in Stillwater. It is run by a small group of volunteers and includes perennial food plants, native planting, a common sitting area and several different sized raised beds that can be rented for the growing season.
Also, in Stillwater there is a farmers market every other Saturday from June 8th thru August 10th, located at 3rd & Pine Street (Riverview Parking Lot of the Stillwater Veterans Memorial).
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Last year, they rented 40 plots to gardeners of all ages, abilities and levels of expertise.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.northhillcommunitygarden.org/
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821
2 star - Action 4:

Measurably increase institutional buying and sales of foods and fibers that are local, Minnesota-grown, organic, healthy, humanely raised, and grown by fairly compensated growers.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2000
Implementation details:
River Market Community Co-op is a consumer cooperative located downtown Stillwater, committed to selling fresh, local, and organic produce and naturally-raised meats.


Axdahl Garden Farm and Greenhouse is a farm in Stillwater licensed by Minnesota Grown and certified by Food Alliance Midwest, that has wholesale accounts local grocery stores, restaurants, and distributors.They can be viewed at www.axdaflfarms.com
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://rivermarket.coop/
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821

Business Synergies and EcoDistricts {BP no.28}

1 star - Action 3:

Require, build or facilitate at least four sustainability attributes in a business/industrial park project:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 1998
Implementation details:
A. Within Stillwater there are a number of shared parking and shared access facilities. Dairy Queen, for example, is a stand alone building that is situated within the Valley Ridge Mall parking lot. Also Target and Cubs are two really big stores that have a shared parking area.

B. VistaTek is a manufacturing company in Stillwater that has taken on a whole slew of green initiatives. VistaTek works closely with customers and suppliers to utilize recycled materials when it is available. They use re-ground material that they collect on-site, or use resin that is compounded from recycled plastics. A perfect example are these razor handles that are molded from plastic derived from recycled yogurt cups.

C. West Stillwater Business Park District allows for future mixed use development and is currently used for commercial use and is adjacent to residential neighborhoods, allowing safe and easy pedestrian travel between the two.

D.The Lora Hotel was constructed from a building designed for reuse. The original building was a late 19th century brewery, with great historical significance for Stillwater and Minnesota. The building was recently transformed into a 40-room hotel, while maintaining the original structure and overall design.

G. The post office in Stillwater is a great example of low-impact site development. To minimize to run off tho adjacent properties the post office installed a permeable parking lot during its development.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://stillwater.govoffice.com/vertical/Sites/%7B5BFEF821-C140-4887-AEB5-99440411EEFD%7D/uploads/Design_Guidelines_(Business_Park).pdf
For more information contact:
Bill Turnblad (City staff) | bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us | 651-430-8821