City Detail

Background Information

City of Elko New Market
County: Scott
Population: 4846
GreenStep City category: B
Full-time equivalent city staff (approx.): 10
Participating township, county, school:

GreenStep Coordinator

Brandon Malecha
City Staff
bmalecha@ci.enm.mn.us
952-461-2777
City web page relating to sustainability/GreenStep activities:
https://www.ci.enm.mn.us/
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
2024 - click to view assessment

Best Practice Actions Underway and Completed

Completed actions are denoted by stars.

Total completed actions: 35
1 star actions: 21
2 star actions: 11
3 star actions: 3

Buildings and Lighting Buildings and Lighting

Efficient Existing Public Buildings {BP no.1}

2 star - Action 1:

Enter/update building information into the MN B3 Benchmarking database, and routinely enter monthly usage data for all city-owned buildings/infrastructure that consume energy/water.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The city has completed the building editor for each city-owned building. It has identified the person responsible for routinely entering data. And each property's billing history has been entered with greater than 24 months history for all properties now including the new water treatment facility (electric completed, gas now completed)
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
https://mn.b3benchmarking.com/
B3 Benchmarking, Xcel Energy, MVEC, Dakota Electric Association, Greater MN Gas, MN Energy Resources Company (MERC)
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
2 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: 2021
Implementation details:
Within the past (three) years, the City of Elko New Market has improved all interior public building lighting by changing from florescent to CFL (this change over is built into the Public Works process). Public building temperatures are governed according to the use of interior lighting timers, locked thermostats (lights off in unused spaces, 70F in actively used spaces and 62F in spaces while not in use). Power management software is already in place by requiring the use of sleep and shut down timers on all office equipment in accordance with energy star rated products. The City is also an energy star purchase member and conducts a routine HVAC maintenance schedule. The city's existing janitorial contract does account for "regular cleaning of sensors, lamps and HVAC vents", which occurs at minimum, twice per year. Lastly, there are low-flow faucets (all) and showerheads(3 of 3) installed throughout public properties in the city.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us
Energy Star
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
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: 2020
Implementation details:
The City has retrofitted or designed the during construction phase several public buildings including the Public Works and Water Treatment building for the purpose of energy efficiency. Sky lighting and air circulators exist in the new public works building and . No energy performance contract was used to finance the work done on these properties. The City completed a joint project with Xcel Energy in November, 2018 to convert all 81 streetlights to more efficient LEDs
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
The is estimated to see a monthly energy kwh savings of 2,353 and cost savings of $500.year.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us
B3 Benchmarking, Xcel Energy, MVEC, Dakota Electric Association, Greater MN Gas, MN Energy Resources Company (MERC)
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
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: 2016
Implementation details:
The power management and control strategy for city buildings includes a building management system via an agreement for IT services with the City of Savage. Staff policy prohibits space heaters, coffee makers and products or appliances of a similar nature. Membership in the energy star product purchasing plan, installation of lighting timers and a customized HVAC operation and maintenance schedule are other steps the city has taken.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us
Energy Star, City of Savage
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
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: 2016
Implementation details:
The city's brand new water treatment facility began operation on 01/01/2016 and was constructed using a green building framework. The property used some recycled materials and is heated using hot water circulation methods and air circulators. It also uses energy efficient lighting and the new facility is generally more efficient provided its age. In addition, it should be noted that the City's Public Works Facility, which was occupied beginning 10/15 was constructed using the same green methods as the Water Treatment Facility. going forward, new and renovated City buildings will require specs that require green building methods. (Scott County Library and ENM Police Station)
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us/
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
2 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: 2016
Implementation details:
The City of Elko New Market's Public Works building has recently constructed and now operates a storm water harvesting system. A storm water drainage pond is used for building water use whereby water taken from a holding pond on-site is filtered and reused for 1.) heating the building via a hot water floor heating system and 2.) the water is reused in the public works building for operations. Furthermore, the Public Works building has been retrofitted with 3-pane skylights and a circulating fan air circulation system. (Police Department and City Hall/upgraded HVAC system)
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us
Bolton & Menk, Inc.
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777

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: 2021
Implementation details:
The City has adopted it's 2040 update of the Comp Plan, which, contains new sections on sustainability and active living. The plan has been used to construct hike/bike trails from boundary to boundary through the City.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
www.ci.enm.mn.us
Bolton & Menk
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
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: 2016
Implementation details:
Individual ordinances, where related to the Comp Plan, and all City programs/projects now contain a Cover Sheet that links the Elko New Market's Vision Statement; 5-Year Goals; and Community-Oriented Government Philosophy to all city actions, including the Comp Plan
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
www.ci.enm.mn.us
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
2 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: 2021
Implementation details:
The City includes in its plans and works with several partners on an intergovernmental basis. In the case of Fire Department services, the City teams up with 3 neighboring townships via a Scott County agreement. Health care services are also provided in conjunction with Scott County. The City works with Metropolitan Council for Environmental Service (MCES) for wastewater treatment and for water wellhead & resource protection plans. As well, The City also participates with Scott County Association for Leadership and Efficiency (SCALE). The City contracts with the City of Savage for IT services; Scott County CDA for housing programs; share a Building Inspector with surrounding cities and townships; and works with the Lakeville and New Prague School Districts in the provision of recreational programming for City residents. In addition, the City actively participates as member of Scott County's Solid Waste Advisory Committee in setting recycling, waste disposal and sustainability policies countywide and holds an annual dropoff day for unwanted appliances; batteries, electronics, et al. and twice yearly free yard waste program.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us
Scott County; SCALE; MCES;
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
1 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:
Implementation details:
Terms regarding the development of land and growth area with staging criteria that reflects projected population growth are provided per the terms of an orderly annexation agreement. The Comp Plan does list natural resource protection areas, such as the Vermillion River Watershed
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.mba.state.mn.us/Scans/OA-1594_Original_Agreement.pdf
Town of New Market
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
1 star - Action 5:

Adopt climate mitigation and/or energy independence goals and objectives in the comprehensive plan or in a separate policy document, and include transportation recommendations such as becoming an EV-ready city.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2016
Implementation details:
Please see the City's "Orderly Annexation Agreement", for numeric targets, target dates and infrastructure resiliency goals. The City has applied for EV grants to set up recharging stations for electric vehicles, but has not been successful in receiving one.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777

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:
Implementation details:
Through its membership and partnership with the met council and under its own volition, the city has established design goals and standards to account for highway and auto-oriented as published in the city's 2030 Transportation and 2008 Comprehensive Plan.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
file:///C:/Users/PGC/Desktop/City%20of%20Elko%20New%20Market%20-%20GreenStep%20Cities/City%20Information/2030_Transportation_Plan_Appendix_A.pdf
Met Council, Bolton & Menk Engineers and Surveyors
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
1 star - Action 2:

Participate in regional economic development planning with representatives from surrounding townships, cities, the county and business interests to:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The city's 2030 transportation plan and related comprehensive plan, coupled with recent significant population growth have dictated that frequent conversations occur within the city among primary actors and across all jurisdictions to jointly implement recommendations made in the plan and as is required by membership in the met council. The transportation and comprehensive plan (as well as parks plan) are regularly updated and formalize this development and land use process.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us/vertical/sites/%7B97941C7E-666C-4328-9370-1A15F984EEE3%7D/uploads/2030_Transportation_Plan_Appendix_A.pdf
metropolitan council, bolton & menk
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
2 star - Action 3:

Adopt infrastructure design standards that protect the economic and ecologic functions of the highway corridor through clustering of development, native plantings and incorporating access management standards.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Access management standards where highways access auto-oriented commercial development is highlighted in the city's 2030 transportation plan and related comprehensive plan. The transportation and comprehensive plan also define auto-oriented commercial zoning districts by planning to group them into clusters, minimize transit "superblocks" and increase pedestrian passageways not just between buildings, but city-wide in general.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us/vertical/sites/%7B97941C7E-666C-4328-9370-1A15F984EEE3%7D/uploads/2030_Transportation_Plan_Appendix_A.pdf
Met Council, Bolton & Menk Engineers and Surveyors
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777

Transportation Transportation

Living & Complete Streets {BP no.11}

1 star - Action 1:

Adopt a complete streets policy, or a living streets policy, which addresses landscaping and stormwater.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
See Comprehensive Plan for the "1 star" rating. A comp/strategic plan direction has been adopted and is revisited periodically so that continual improvements can be made.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us/vertical/sites/%7B97941C7E-666C-4328-9370-1A15F984EEE3%7D/uploads/2030_Transportation_Plan_Appendix_A.pdf
Met Council, Bolton & Menk Engineers and Surveyors
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
1 star - Action 4:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
There are no gaps in the City's paved trail system at this time. This system connects cycling and pedestrian trails throughout the city and the Park Plan dictates that these connections continue to be made as trails are developed around area parks and lakes and as general property development occurs.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
1 star - Action 5:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
There are no gaps in the City's paved trail system at this time. This system connects cycling and pedestrian trails throughout the city and the Park Plan dictates that these connections continue to be made as trails are developed around area parks and lakes and as general property development occurs.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.nacplanning.com/Elko%20New%20Market%20Park%20Plan.pdf
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777

Mobility Options {BP no.12}

1 star - Action 1:

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

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The city has a basic map of key civic and commercial sites as well as the best pedestrian and transit routes and schedules. This can be found online at: http://www.nacplanning.com/Elko%20New%20Market%20Park%20Plan.pdf

The city also has installed along main street and its park trails infrastructure for city-wide bike lanes and pedestrian walkways and can report an increase in walking and biking counts since the installation.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us/index.asp?Type=B_LIST&SEC={1BC27F34-5796-4277-A37C-3121EBE55EC4}
Northwest Associated Consultants
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
1 star - Action 5:

Implement workplace multi-modal transportation best management practices - including telework/flexwork - in city government, businesses or at a local health care provider.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The current policy for City employees is that alternative work schedules must be approved by the City Administrator. Working from home on an occasional basis can be scheduled...the City has purchased surface computers for each Department Head to allow that to occur more easily.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
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:
The City is working with the Minnesota Valley Transit Authority to develop rush hour service to the Metro Transit Station in Burnsville - 2 times in the morning and 2 times in the afternoon. The City encourages carpooling by allowing parking in designated areas for that purpose.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
MVTA
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777

Demand-Side Travel Planning {BP no.14}

2 star - Action 1:

Reduce or eliminate parking minimums; add parking maximums; develop district parking; install meters and charge for parking at curb and city-owned lots/ramps. 

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
There are no parking requirements or minimums in the city of Elko New Market. Additionally, the parking lot for the new Water Treatment facility is made of a permeable surface material, thus eliminating the majority of storm water drainage.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777

Environmental Management Environmental Management

Parks and Trails {BP no.18}

1 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 has adopted a Parks Plan which has been responsible for connecting walking and biking paths throughout the City and has identified areas for future development and improvement, such as remedies for street-to-trail gaps. In 2017, the City completed its bike/hike paved trail "spine" that enables people to bike/hike from the City's east boundary at Windrose Park to Eagle View Elementary School on the City's west side. Significant additional projects included a paved, handicapped accessible bike/hike trail to the highest point in Scott County called Pete's Hill "Lookout", which was in part funded by a grant from Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community and partially constructed by Eagle Scout candidates from Troop 325. This is one example of building links from City parks to the trail "spine".
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us/vertical/sites/%7B97941C7E-666C-4328-9370-1A15F984EEE3%7D/uploads/%7B6EF303FE-8BE0-47AB-AD5D-87B3AF601E06%7D.PDF
SMSC, Troop 325
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
1 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:
Implementation details:
The City has an approved Parks and Trail Plan requiring either a dedication of land (this is the choice when it complies with plan) and/or a Park Dedication Fee...connections to the existing bike/hike trail whether or not they are part of the submittal by a developer are part of the evaluation of the application.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&SEC={BF86B161-C1BF-4BCC-AE5F-78CD5CF86599}
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
3 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:
The location of the City of Elko New Market allows it unique opportunities to not only be a part of the greater metropolitan area, but also afford its residents access to open land, developable land and public areas such as parks, not available to many metro area communities.

- There are at least seven acres of municipal park land per 1000 residents.
- According to the 2030 Park Plan, at least 20% of land is planned for green infrastructure.
- Provided the size of the city, 90% or more of residents are within one-half mile of a park or other protected green/blue space.

More info can be found at: http://www.ci.enm.mn.us/index.asp?Type=B_LIST&SEC={1BC27F34-5796-4277-A37C-3121EBE55EC4}
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us/vertical/sites/%7B97941C7E-666C-4328-9370-1A15F984EEE3%7D/uploads/%7B0423133C-3557-4347-AEF7-6F61CAEF817D%7D.PDF
City of Elko New Market Parks Commission
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
2 star - Action 4:

Adopt low-impact design standards in parks and trails that infiltrate or retain all 2 inch, 24-hour stormwater events on site.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2016
Implementation details:
All public areas in the City of Elko New Market are required to meet low-impact design standards n parks and trails that infiltrate or retain all 2 inch, 24-hour storm water events on site as development occurs.

For example, when the City of Elko New Mark built Wagner Park's new shelter, it was built with efficiency and sustainability in mind. The utilities fixtures and appliances within the structure meet today's energy efficiency standards. In the interests of enhanced heating and cooling efficiency, 3-pane main entry sliding doors were installed, allowing the shelter to operate more efficiently as well as service the community from approximately April to October, as opposed to May to late September, as is often the case with park shelters in Minnesota weather. Sky lighting and ceiling air circulators allow for dramatic control over the climate indoors without the need for traditional heating and cooling systems and with the aid of motion sensors controlling the lighting systems, the city has managed to construct a facility that costs taxpayers only $30 year in gas & electric costs.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us/vertical/Sites/%7B97941C7E-666C-4328-9370-1A15F984EEE3%7D/uploads/%7B3BBEE42B-DB17-4644-9380-6BF77BDC8306%7D.PDF
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
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:
See Park Plan (web link to Park Plan above).

- Low/no mow areas and native landscaping are a part of the parkland maintenance process. Recyclables are collected at each site. There is also one community garden plot in the city and the purchase of electric utility vehicles (EUVs) are under consideration.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us/vertical/sites/%7B97941C7E-666C-4328-9370-1A15F984EEE3%7D/uploads/%7BED2C671B-63D6-430F-9A36-83DF5F9E3C80%7D.PDF
Dick's Sanitation
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
1 star - Action 8:

Develop a program to involve community members in hands-on land restoration, invasive species management and stewardship projects.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City's public school was involved in a public space tree planting project responsible for planting at least six hardwood trees in strategic areas by accepting the help of eager students to plant and learn about the acquired trees. The City has celebrated Arbor Day with the school District for the past 5 years.

Each year, the City works with a local conservation group to cleanup the City's Stormwater Drainage Ponds

In anticipation of the Emerald Ash Borer, the City has conducted a study of ash tress worth preserving and made information on the disease to homeowners

The Parks Commission, with the help of the Bluebird Recovery Program and Troop 325, has constructed bluebird houses in Windrose Park
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.southernminn.com/lonsdale_area_news_review/news/local/article_0ec56ef5-9e73-593a-80b6-7c33dcefebf8.html
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777

Sustainable Consumption and Waste {BP no.22}

1 star - Action 1:

Improve city operations and procurement to prevent and reuse, recycle and compost waste from all public facilities (including libraries, parks, schools, municipal health care facilities), and minimize use of toxics and generation of hazardous waste.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City of Elko New Market has in place means for the audit and measurement of solid waste as well as set goals for the reducing the generation of overall solid waste and recyclable materials. There are 3 licensed haulers in the city and they are required to report a tonnage summary to the city 2x per year. Also, there is a large item recycling day for residents that occurs once per year. Thus, the audit and measurements of waste generated already occurs. In order to further reduce waste generated, the city has a residential and public spaces recycling program and has actively encouraged the refurbishment of any usable office equipment or furniture as well as reusing building materials wherever possible and increasing electronic communications while discouraging junk mail and other wasteful uses of technology such as any non-professional social media activity. In July, 2017, the City began recycling in all City parks, as well as all public buildings, through a grant from Scott County. This project was the subject of an article by the Minnesota Waste Wise Foundation.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
In the first 6 months, over 1,100 lbs of materials have been recycled and it is expected that the total should reach 2,200 lbs in 2018.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us
Lakeville (Dick's) Sanitation, Waste Management, Buckingham Disposal
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
3 star - Action 3:

Improve profitability, legal compliance and conserve resources through adoption of ordinance language, licensing and resource management contracts.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City has a license limit of 3 haulers to serve residents in the City. The number was recently lowered from 4 haulers. Each hauler must offer recycling and free yard waste pickup twice a year, plus be involved in the City's Annual Dropoff Day (2cd Saturday in June each year). They are required to report recycling and solid waste figures on a quarterly basis. They can only serve residents on Wednesdays and/or Fridays to reduce the wear and tear on City streets.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
1 star - Action 4:

Publicize, promote and use the varied businesses/services collecting and marketing used, repaired and rental consumer goods, especially electronics, in the city/county.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
This service is provided Scott County and is marketed thru the City's website, newsletter and ocasional Facebook postings.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Scott County
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
2 star - Action 6:

Improve recycling services and expand to multi-unit housing and commercial businesses.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City has: 1.) Organized and standardized the collection of residential recyclable materials and, 2.) The City works with 3 garbage haulers whom are required to follow the City's organized collection schedule (Tuesdays & Fridays each week as of 12/28/15), the City recycling rates are reported (80% at present using Dick's waste and recycling services) and mandates the collection of recyclables from multi-unit residential buildings.

Although haulers do not use compressed natural gas, nor is it favored or required as a license condition, the city can estimate savings to residents by way of a reduction in wear on city streets. This is due to a waste pickup schedule implemented in order to better organize the city's 3 waste haulers.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us
Lakeville (Dick's) Sanitation, Waste Management, Buckingham Disposal
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777

Resilient Economic & Community Development Resilient Economic and Community Development

Benchmarks and Community Engagement {BP no.24}

2 star - Action 6:

Engaging the Next Generation: Engage wide representation of community youth and college students by creating opportunities to participate in city government (including commissions).

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Much of the work on the Green Step City Program has been accomplished through an Intern from Metropolitan State University, especially in the areas of B3 and solar/renewable energy options. we hope to continue to use this approach for this program
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Metro State University
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777

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: 2021
Implementation details:
The City, along with Ideal Energies, will be constructing a 40 KW solar array to provide to City Hall and a 40 KW solar array for the Public Works Facility. Installation of both solar arrays was completed in 2021 and both are operational as of 4/29/2022.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Conservative estimated savings are $250,000 over the life of the array.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
Xcel Energy, Ideal Energies
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777

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: 2016
Implementation details:
Although there are no urban beehives in the city at present, the city presently has and promotes a community garden as well as a farmer's market.

Due to the rural nature of this area, no guidelines prevent the restrict the production of local food through, for example, agreements like Homeowner's Agreements.

The city has worked with private property owners for items like a community food shelf. Ag business makes up a significant percentage of the city (and areas) economic activity and farmland still exists within city limits.

The agricultural arrangement includes the operation of several small to large (i.e., Dean Farms, Organic Valley) private actors. Farms operate in and around the city (within 2 miles) providing goods that range from organic lettuce to apples, various meats, fresh chickens, eggs and diary products.

There are no vacant lots to allocate for urban ag in the city at this time.

The City allows residents in R-1 and R-2 zones to have up to four (4) chickens. This was done through adopting an Ordinance for the Keeping of Backyard Chickens, effective 6-1-2016.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777
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: 2016
Implementation details:
The city holds and promotes a community garden within city limits.

Although there are no urban ag businesses, provided the city's location, Ag business in the rural and suburban areas of Elko New Market are thriving and many businesses are within a five-minute commute to local farming entrepreneurs.

The City has held a Farmer's Market each Thursday in the Summer, but has been unable to sustain more than a 10 to 12 vendors. It does currently have one, but will continue to try to find a viable one. The City is in the process of working on a Food Shelf with interested residents.


Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
http://www.ci.enm.mn.us
For more information contact:
Jake Skluzacek (City Staff) | jskluzacek@ci.enm.mn.us | 952-461-2777