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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019-02-26 ENR Packet AGENDA CITY OF MAPLEWOOD ENVIRONMENTAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION Council Chambers 1830 County Road B East Tuesday, February 26, 2019 7:00 p.m. Council Chambers - Maplewood City Hall 1830 County Road B East 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of Agenda 4. Approval of Minutes: a. January 23, 2019 5. New Business a. Election of Chair and Vice Chair b. Community Food Assessment C. 2019 Environmental and Natural Resources Commission Goals d. Resolution of Appreciation for Ryan Ries 6. Unfinished Business a. Rules of Procedures 7. Visitor Presentations 8. Commissioner Presentations a. Commissioner Okeson — University of Minnesota Turf Grass Field Day 9. Staff Presentations a. Ramsey County Food and Nutrition Commission Meeting — March 4, 2019 b. Environmental and Natural Resources Commission Vacancy C. Maplewood Nature Center Programs 10. Adjourn Agenda Item 4.a. MINUTES CITY OF MAPLEWOOD ENVIRONMENTAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 23, 2019 Council Chambers, City Hall 1830 County Road B East 1. CALL TO ORDER A meeting of the Environmental and Natural Resources Commission was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Chair Redmond. 2. ROLL CALL Keith Buttleman, Commissioner Absent Mollie Miller, Commissioner Present Candace Okeson, Commissioner Present Ann Palzer, Commissioner Present Ted Redmond, Chair Present Tom Sinn, Commissioner Present Staff Present Shann Finwall, Environmental Planner 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Commissioner Sinn moved to approve the agenda as submitted. Seconded by Commissioner Palzer. Ayes —All The motion passed. 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Commissioner Palzer moved to approve the December 17, 2018, Environmental and Natural Resources Commission meetinq minutes as submitted. Seconded by Commissioner Okeson. Ayes — Chairperson Redmond, Commissioner's Okeson, Palzer Abstentions — Commissioner's Miller, & Sinn The motion passed. 5. NEW BUSINESS a. Election of Chair and Vice-Chair Election of Chair and Vice-Chair was tabled until the February meeting because all Commission members were not present for the January meeting. Commission members should submit their interest in serving as chair and vice-chair prior to the next meeting. Those 1 nominees and others announced during the February meeting will be considered and voted on by the full Commission. b. 1603 Mary Street North —Wetland Buffer Variance for an Addition to a Single Family Home. i. Environmental Planner, Shann Finwall gave the presentation on the Wetland Buffer Variance for an Addition to a Single Family Home at 1603 Mary Street North and answered questions of the Commission. ii. Applicant, Ann Rivard, 1603 Mary Street North, Maplewood, addressed and answered questions of the Commission. Commissioner Palzer moved to approve the resolution approving the wetland buffer variance and buffer mitigation strategies for an addition to the single family home at 1603 Mary Street North. Seconded by Commissioner Miller. Ayes — Chairperson Redmond, Commissioner's Miller, Palzer & Sinn Abstention — Commissioner Okeson The motion passed. Commissioner Okeson abstained from voting on the wetland buffer variance, expressing concern that a new homeowner could remove or not maintain the wetland buffer plantings, which is a requirement of the variance. c. 2659 Geranium Avenue East — Lot Division, Reduced Front Yard Setback Authorization, and Wetland Buffer Variance for a New Single Family Home. i. Environmental Planner, Shann Finwall gave the presentation on the Lot Division, Reduced Front Yard Setback Authorization and Wetland Buffer Variance for a New Single Family Home at 2659 Geranium Avenue East and answered questions of the Commission. ii. The applicant, Ben Thone with Thone Builders, addressed and answered questions of the Commission. iii. Tim Thone, Ben's father and business partner, addressed and answered questions of the Commission. iv. Environmental Specialist, Wayne Jacobson addressed and answered questions of the Commission. Commissioner Palzer moved to approve the resolution approving the wetland buffer variance and buffer mitigation strategies for a new single family home on Parcel C of the subdivided 2657 Geranium Avenue property. Seconded by Commissioner Sinn. Ayes —All The motion passed. d. ENR Commission Rules of Procedures i. Environmental Planner, Shann Finwall reviewed the ENR Commission Rules of Procedures. The Commission requested additional information on the recommendation that they remove Visitor Presentations from the agenda. In particular, a copy of the City Council Rules of Civility. The Commission will review the additional information and revisit the subject matter in February. The item was tabled until the February ENR Commission meeting. 2 6. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. 7. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS None present. 8. COMMISSION PRESENTATIONS None. 9. STAFF PRESENTATIONS a. February 25, 2019, City Council Meeting — ENR Commission Annual Report. Chair Redmond will present the annual report to the City Council. b. Rescheduled February ENR Commission Meeting to Tuesday, February 26, 2019. C. ENR Commission 2019 Goal Setting Session —Tuesday, February 26, 2019 d. Maplewood Nature Center Programs i. Commissioners read the upcoming Nature Center Programs. For more information contact the Maplewood Nature Center at (651) 249-2170. 10. ADJOURNMENT Chair Redmond adjourned the meeting at 8:35 p.m. '.: I R �x 1W 3 Agenda Item 5.a. ENVIRONMENTAL & NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION STAFF REPORT Meeting Date February 26, 2019 REPORT TO: Environmental and Natural Resources Commission REPORT FROM: Shann Finwall, AICP, Environmental Planner PRESENTER: Shann Finwall, AICP, Environmental Planner AGENDA ITEM: Election of Chair and Vice Chair Action Requested: ✓ Motion ❑ Discussion ❑ Public Hearing Form of Action: ❑ Resolution ❑ Ordinance ❑ Contract/Agreement ❑ Proclamation Policy Issue: The Environmental and Natural Resources Commission ordinance requires that the Commission elect a Chair and Vice-Chair to run the meetings each year. Recommended Action: Nominate a Chair and Vice-Chair for 2019. Motion to approve the Chair and Vice-Chair nominations. Fiscal Impact: Is There a Fiscal Impact? ✓ No ❑ Yes, the true or estimated cost is $0.00 Financing source(s): ❑ Adopted Budget ❑ Budget Modification ❑ New Revenue Source ❑ Use of Reserves ❑ Other: n/a Strategic Plan Relevance: ❑ Financial Sustainability ❑ Integrated Communication ❑ Targeted Redevelopment ✓ Operational Effectiveness ❑ Community Inclusiveness ❑ Infrastructure & Asset Mgmt. The Environmental and Natural Resources Commission ordinance outlines the duties of the Chair and Vice-Chair as follows: The Chair is responsible for calling and presiding at meetings and shall have an equal vote with other members of the Commission. If the Chairperson is not at the meeting, the Vice-Chair shall assume the duties of the Chair for that meeting. Background In 2018 the ENR Commission elected Commissioner Ries to act as Chair and Commissioner Redmond to act as Vice-Chair. During the January 2019 ENR Commission meeting, the Commission tabled the election of Chair and Vice-Chair because all Commissioners were not present. The Commission recommended that Commissioners interested in serving as Chair or Vice-Chair submit their interest prior to the 1 February meeting. Since that time staff has received notice from two Commissioners regarding their interest in serving in these positions: • Chair: Ted Redmond, Mollie Miller • Vice-Chair: Mollie Miller Additional nominees will be accepted during the ENR Commission meeting. Attachments None 2 Agenda Item 5.b. ENVIRONMENTAL & NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION STAFF REPORT Meeting Date February 26, 2019 REPORT TO: Environmental and Natural Resources Commission REPORT FROM: Shann Finwall, AICP, Environmental Planner PRESENTER: Shann Finwall, AICP, Environmental Planner AGENDA ITEM: Community Food Assessment Action Requested: ✓ Motion ✓ Discussion ❑ Public Hearing Form of Action: ❑ Resolution ❑ Ordinance ❑ Contract/Agreement ❑ Proclamation Policy Issue: The 2040 Comprehensive Plan Sustainability Chapter outlined local foods goals to include the adoption of a Community Food Assessment to identify barriers and gaps in healthy food access. Recommended Action: Motion to recommend approval of the Community Food Assessment. Fiscal Impact: Is There a Fiscal Impact? ✓ No ❑ Yes, the true or estimated cost is $0 Financing source(s): ❑ Adopted Budget ❑ Budget Modification ❑ New Revenue Source ❑ Use of Reserves ✓ Other: n/a Strategic Plan Relevance: ❑ Financial Sustainability ❑ Integrated Communication ❑ Targeted Redevelopment ❑ Operational Effectiveness ✓ Community Inclusiveness ❑ Infrastructure & Asset Mgmt. A Community Food Assessment will ensure community inclusiveness by identifying disparities in healthy food availability and access in areas and populations. Background Community Food Assessment A Community Food Assessment (CFA) is a process involving data collection and analysis in collaboration with key stakeholders and community partners in local and heathy food access. The project aims to identify disparities in healthy food availability and accessibility in different areas or among different communities and populations. Availability refers to the physical location and existence of healthy food in certain areas or in a store specifically, whereas accessibility refers to a 1 broader picture of cost, quality, or other socioeconomic barriers that may exist for some people in accessing healthy foods. The assessment identifies strengths and weaknesses of the current food environment as well as gaps and disparities in accessing affordable and nutritious foods. A major aspect of a healthy community is access to healthy food, and there are a wide range of factors and barriers that might exist in creating food insecurity. The CFA will highlight potential for providing equitable healthy food access for all members of the community. Ramsey County SHIP The Saint Paul-Ramsey County Statewide Health Improvement Partnership (SHIP) increases opportunities for residents to lead healthier lives. Through community partnerships, SHIP works to create sustainable, community-driven changes that help everyone eat healthier, be active, and live tobacco free, with a focus on health equity. Since September 2018 the Environmental and Natural Resources Commission has partnered with Saint Paul-Ramsey County SHIP to create a CFA for the City of Maplewood. Caitlin Pyrz was hired by the Saint Paul-Ramsey County Public Health Department as an intern to complete the assessment. Through the internship and work on the CFA, Caitlin will complete her Master Thesis for the University of Minnesota, Master of Public Health program. Saint Paul-Ramsey County SHIP employees, City staff, and the Environmental and Natural Resources Commission Local Foods Subcommittee provided technical assistance and guidance in the project. Maplewood CFA Caitlin Pyrz and representatives of Saint-Paul Ramsey County SHIP will be present during the February 26, 2019, Commission meeting to present the Maplewood CFA. The Assessment includes an introduction, methods, results, discussion, and recommendations. The recommendations will assist the City in adopting policies and programs that will remove gaps to healthy foods within the community. Attachments 1. Maplewood Community Food Assessment 2 � I 4 Attachment 1 MAPLEWOOD , MINNESOTA —1W PW r SCHOOL OF shlo PUBLIC HEALTH f RAMSEY COUNTY statewide health Saint Paul - Ramsey County Public Health improvement partnership Maplewood UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA INTRODUCTION The food environment of any community can have a This study will document results of a community strong impact on a person's health and well-beings food assessment in Maplewood, a city in Ramsey Food insecurity, defined by the USDA as a household- County,Minnesota, and will include methodology, level economic and social condition of limited or results, discussion, recommendations, and uncertain access to adequate food,2is a serious problem current) facing man in the United conclusion. In Ramsey County, 13/a of households people Minnesota hada experienced food insecurity in 2015,-which is higher States.3According to USDA statistics, household food insecurity prevalence of 9.5% in 2017, than the national average of 11.8% of households in which means that 1 in 10 households in Minnesota 3 the United States,as reported by the USDA in 20173 struggle with food insecurity. Ramsey County is the smallest county Food insecurity as a public health issue highlights geographically in Minnesota but is one of the most the consequences of inadequate access to healthier diverse in the stateb The current population of the foods,where consuming a nutrient-poor diet may city of Maplewood is 38,018,which makes it the contribute to the development of obesity, heart second largest city in Ramsey County, after Saint disease, hypertension, diabetes, and other chronic Paul.'The city includes a racial and ethnic makeup diseases. If these issues are prevalent in a community, they help create challenges and barriers for healthy of 67.4%white, 14.3% Asian, 8.6% Black or African living. 2 American,6.2% Hispanic or Latino (of any race), Availability and accessibility are major 3.1% other,and 0.3% American Indian and Alaska contributing factors to a person or family's ability to Native?Maplewood is home to a number of Hmong, consistently have healthy and nutritious food. Karen, Nepali,Somali, and Hispanic recent Availability refers to the physical location and immigrant or refugee groups. existence of healthier food in certain areas of a The need for a community food assessment was community or in a store specifically,whereas accessibility refers to a broader picture of cost, quality, called out in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan for location or socioeconomic barriers that may exist in Maplewood. The purpose of this assessment is to accessing healthier foods. identify barriers and gaps in healthy food access and community assets. The guiding question for the assessment is: 4 To what extent is healthier food accessible, affordable and available for residents of Maplewood,Minnesota? Results from the assessment will be used to provide recommendations for the city to improve food security and food access for residents of Maplewood. The Maplewood 2040 Comprehensive Plan can be found at https://mapiewoodmn.gov/1718/2040-Comprehensive-Plcn 1 METHODS Procedures Information for this assessment was obtained from primary data collection and existing secondary data sources. Primary data collection includes informational interviews conducted with 16 key stakeholders working within the food system of Maplewood to determine strengths and weaknesses related to food access for members of the community. Key stakeholders were selected from a variety of places including food assistance programs,schools, community garden programs,the farmers market, food shelves, community development programs, and charity organizations. Those interviewed were asked a series of questions regarding strengths and weaknesses of the environment,what works well in improving food access, barriers people face, and perceptions of affordability of healthier food. The secondary data sources used were two sets of existing survey results containing relevant information for the assessment. • The 2018 Community Health Assessments for Saint Paul-Ramsey County Public Health provided answers to open-ended questions based on zip code geographical areas. The information available for the three zip codes in Maplewood were used. • Results from the 2017 Minnesota Food Shelf Client Survey"for Ramsey County were used to gather information about residents who access a food shelf in the area. Data analysis of key informant interviews was completed by the student investigator using qualitative analytic procedures of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification'.° Descriptive notes from interviews were recorded and summarized to identify key themes and similar concepts and data was merged for interpretation. © u Ma cu Male-C Pine springs Q r LLittleanatla O North St Paul o0 C3 rnvnr race O Lake Elmo Perk Reserve Oakdale St Paul aplewoo Mi.Xlpp' 5t Paul j 0 National Rlver Rawntown Maplewood, and Recreation Airport Battle Cr k Area 9 Regional Pi A Minnesota o Woodbury ydale West St Paul n O Go gle image obtained from Google.com/maps 2 RESULTS Informational Interviews Ten major themes emerged from the interviews: Frequency of Themes Discussed in Interviews 15 Number of 10 Stakeholders 5 0 `oo y�� °o Qe� poi \OQ yoo yoo aaoa �a�t �w�oi O a e e e ok o�� p eNe �a �o oa aoi a t��yeot� `�e\�oyt at��e o°j at� ,all Themes Cost/Money Most of those interviewed (94%) described cost and money as barriers for people in accessing healthier food. While all described this issue as not being unique to Maplewood,there is area for improvement in supporting programs that aim to address cost as a barrier. Adequate funds for staffing, outreach, resources or projects are needed in order to implement programs to make healthier food more affordable. Existing assets in this area include programs that give more purchasing power to individuals and allow them to stretch their dollars for healthier foods. "Programs like Market Bucks (a program that matches SNAP-EBT spending at Former's Mar�.ets) a re giving families more access for healthy foods and the money is going to nearby farmers, buillding the L wealth of our community by keeping the money local." (non-profit organization) Transportation/Location Transportation and location emerged as markers of strengths and weaknesses in the current food environment in Maplewood. In terms of weaknesses, most of those interviewed (88%) identified transportation as a major barrier people face in accessing healthier food in this community. Seven people identified a need for delivery services or mobile distribution and access for food assistance programs or general grocery shopping. In terms of strengths,there are three large community garden locations as well as a number of smaller ones throughout the city. This contributes to the accessibility of healthier, locally grown produce; however,those who do not live close to a garden do not have easy access. (electedA big barrier to healthy food access is the shortage of reliable and affordable transit and transportation options,especially for those with limited or no access to a car." I I 3 RESULTS Time/Hours of Operation Time and hours of operation were major themes in many interviews (69%). Time is a barrier seen on both sides of food access issues, restricting organizations' ability to offer more programming, and also creating a challenge for people who have difficulty with carving out time to find and utilize resources. Community organizations cannot increase their hours of operation due to funding shortages, decreasing available hours for people in the community to access these programs. Resources that are available are often limited as to how much you can go each month nd mightl L have long wait times." (non-prof it organization) Partnering/Collaboration Many of those interviewed (69%) discussed partnering and collaboration as a need for increasing food access in the community. Greater communication between existing programs and organizations would help serve a higher demand and bring together the community as a whole. A current strength in this area is an existing effort to connect food shelves and bridge gaps in food access for different parts of the east metro. There is great opportunity in working with food shelves in a wide variety of locations, comparing regions to find what best practices are in some areas and how f hey can be incorporated in others." (non-profit organization) Cultural Relevance/Options Many stakeholders (63%) identified a need for more culturally relevant food items available for all members of the community. Key stakeholders identified an area of improvement and need for more acceptance in honoring diversity and demographics around the area and striking a balance of providing culturally relevant and healthier foods. Older adults are another population identified as facing a barrier of lack of food options to adequately meet their needs. Existing assets in this area include usage of community gardens,farmer's market variety, client-choice models at food shelves, and a couple of small ethnic grocery stores within the city. access"Having choice and the variety of choice that is culturally relevant or appropriate increases food - the community." (non-profif organization) errand for Resources A high demand for resources emerged as a major theme in many interviews (63%). A weakness of the community is that food-related resources are limited relative to demand for those resources. One example that was raised was the food shelves in the community,which are described as meeting the needs of as many people as they can but are currently not able to meet the demand or do much community outreach or expansion of services. Strengths in the community include the rapid growth of additional food programs adding to options for people in need. The important thing when if comes to food access is that it's a patchwork and you need a lot of L different options." (non-profif organization) 4 RESULTS Availability of Information About Resources Fifty percent of the stakeholders identified a greater need for information about all available resources in the area. These stakeholders reported their perception that many people are unaware of what is available or how to access it. Area for improvement exists in making concise information readily available for those who need access. Word of mouth was described as a current strength in the area and a main source of communication on what is available. "A lot of people are unaware that hunger is an issue. Unless you are directly experiencing it yow don't know of any resources." (non-profit organization) Knowledge/Education Fifty percent of the stakeholders identified knowledge and education as factors that affect a person's ability to access healthier foods. Weakness in this area exists when people receive foods they don't know how to use or prepare; in addition, people may not have a background knowledge of what a healthy meal might look like or how to prepare it. A strength of the community that might help bridge this gap is the presence of education programs that focus on making healthy choices in preparing healthy foods with the options people have. ir rrs •- i • home • ••• of groceries but if people ••n't know how • use those foods L not effective and adds a barrier." (community program) Language Barriers Language barriers were identified in 38% of the interviews as contribution to food insecurity. Areas for improvement include having people on staff who speak multiple languages or creating adaptable and accommodating resource spaces. This includes having a variety of information available in different languages that reflects the needs of the different population groups within Maplewood. Existing strengths in this area include a number of community programs and non-profits who staff multi-lingual employees or translate materials used with clients. "Having staff that are reflective of the people you are serving in terms of cultural diversi y a nd language is very helpful." (non-profit organization) Stigma Stigma was described as a major barrier for people in accessing healthier foods in 38% of the interviews. There is area for improvement as stigma exists in society surrounding utilization and need for help and resources that often causes people to feel uncomfortable reaching out or accepting aid. Strength exists in the presence of programs in the community that strive to treat people well and with dignity and create a positive and welcoming experience without judgement. "Many families may feel like they don't want assistance because of stigma when they c7l,047, (state-agency) o�ld really 5 RESULTS Survey Data As a part of the 2018 Community Health Assessment for Saint Paul- Maplewood Neighborhoods and ZIP code Areas Ramsey County Public Health, Nap;eN[W answers to a number of community health related, open-ended questions F� G �ae,vXO were compiled and organized by ZIP code. There were 246 respondents inZIP code area 55119,86 respondentsin ZIP code area 55109, and 247 respondents in ZIP code area 55117. l'kEl Hir. 5Si1I The resulting answers that are relevant to the community food environment are described below. i _ What helps your community stay healthy? � Maplewood Neighborhoods 55119- 23% respondents said good Battle Creek or nutritious food, clean water or Beaver Lake exercise Carver Ridge y Gladstone - 55109- 16% of respondents said ®H=ehv d access to healthy foods or free —Highw°nd E eG healthy foods Hillside 55117- 21% of respondents said K.W.—Lk. Maplewood Heights access to grocery stores or eating �lEa HR5 Parkside healthy foods D Shevrood Glen Vista Haas What keeps your community from being Wu temHlils 0 6.5 t 3 healthy? 1:3 rode pi.•mrp 55119- 22% of respondents said ^� "� gC3ds RAhASEY COUNTY- unhealthy '�"�-� a. �.�d •� unhealthy eating or fast food chains 55109-44% of respondents said economy, lack or inadequate communication, or poor and incorrect information about community services 55117-19% of respondents said consumption of unhealthy food due to unaffordability 9 The 2017 Minnesota Food Shelf Client Survey for Ramsey County included information about those who access food shelves in the area,which included 8 participating food shelves and 197 returned surveys. In terms of transportation,68% of respondents said they travel 1 mile or more to reach a food shelf. As a measure of total food access, 57% of clients said they got half or more of their total food from a food shelf in the last 6 months, and 51% of clients said they go half or more of their total fruits and vegetables from a food shelf in the last 6 months. Four percent of respondents said they would like to provide more fruits and vegetables for their family. 6 DISCUSSION Responses from surveys and key informant interviews describes the current food environment of Maplewood as having strengths, areas for improvement, and opportunities for change. The following recommendations are based on a combination of findings from the interviews and community responses in the community health assessment and food shelf client survey. Recommendations were also developed in referencing the Minnesota Food Charter." The recommendations are similar to the action steps outlined in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. Recommendations Accessibility 1. Ensure food stores, hunger relief programs,farmers markets, community gardens, and other food sources are located in places easily reached by bus, bike, or foot. a. Install and maintain sidewalks, metered crosswalks, and bike paths on routes that provide access to these locations. Require sidewalk and bike path standards for all new developments in the city. b.Support the installation of bus stops and bus routes near these community food sources and coordinate bus schedules with the sources'open hours to increase transportation availability throughout the city. 2. Establish affordable food-delivery services that increase mobile food distribution. a.Support programs such as a 'mobile market'that bring food from local stores and farmers' markets to seniors, individuals with mobility issues, and people without transportation. Deliver healthy food grown at nearby farms to neighborhood drop-off sites. 3. Support development of a central location for food assistance programs and other community needs. a. Identify a location for a variety of community needs to be accessed in one space. Support development of a community center that provides resources to people in the area and a safe, welcoming space that decreases stigma and increases accessibility of options. Affordability 4. Support policies and programs that increase purchasing power for healthier foods a. Incentive programs such as 'market bucks' (a program that matches SNAP-EBT spending at Farmer's Markets) and 'veggie prescriptions' (a program involving healthcare-provider prescriptions that can be exchanged for fresh fruits and vegetables) encourage healthy food purchases and allow people to stretch their dollar. Supporting the use and development of programs such as this at local food stores and farmers' markets will increase affordability of healthier foods. b. Partner with local clinics and farmers' markets to establish these programs Availability 5. Support existing food assistance programs and development of additional programs to help meet demand in the area. a. Support development or expansion of food shelves and hunger relief programs to available areas within the city. 7 DISCUSSION 6. Provide a wider variety of food sources in communities with few options for healthy food. a.Support the establishment and maintenance of community gardens in new areas of the community or establishment of urban farms in appropriate areas. b. Encourage edible and pollinator-friendly landscapes on all properties. c. Support a city policy surrounding the requirement of a fresh food source within �/2 mile of every residence or in each of the 13 neighborhoods in Maplewood. Support developments that decrease the distance between households and healthy retail food options. In order to determine future land use policies and gaps in food access reference the food access map in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. d. Integrate community gardens into public housing developments and create incentives for community gardens in affordable housing developments that receive public assistance. 7. Increase availability of information about resources available for members of the community. a. Create an area of the Maplewood website that is updated regularly with information on all resources available for low-income residents. b. Create a document in various formats and language options that is updated twice per year with information on all resources available for low-income residents and distribute to programs for use in recommending options for clients. Distribute document to frequently accessed buildings or areas in the city for people to see. CONCLUSION Availability, affordability,and accessibility are essential aspects of food security in a community4 Implementing the recommendations developed from this community food assessment will help to increase food security in the city of Maplewood. The food environment plays an important role in the health of society and supporting changes that help create a healthier food environment will be beneficial for all. Caitlin Pyrz, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, pyrz0002@umn.edu SOURCES 1. Healthy Food Environment(2010).Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC).U.S.Department of Health and Human Services. https://ma plewoodmn.gov/DocumentCenter/View/22473/02_CommunityProfile 2. Food Insecurity:A Public Health Issue.(2016).Public health reports(Washington,D.C.:1974),131(5),655-657. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5230819/ 3. 2017 USDA Food Insecurity Data(2018).Hunger Solutions.http://www.hungersolutions.org/data-posts/2017-usda-food-insecurity-data/ 4. Healthier Food Retail:Beginning the Assessment Process in Your State or Community(2014).Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC). U.S.Department of Health and Human Services.https://www.edc.gov/obesity/downloads/hfrossessmenf.pdf 5. Food Insecurity(2014).County Health Rankings.Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. http://www.countyhea lthranki ngs.org/app/mi nnesota/2017/measure/factors/139/data 6. Community Profile(2016).Ramsey County.https://www.ramseyeounfy.us/your-government/about-ramsey-county/community-profile 7. Community Profile(2018).2040 Comprehensive Plan.Chapter 2.Pg.2-13-15. https://ma plewoodmn.gov/DocumentCenter/View/22473/02_CommunityProfile 8. Saint Paul-Ramsey County Public Health.2018 Community Health Assessment Survey.www.ramseycounty.us/cha.Published January 2019. 9. Hunger Solutions Minnesota and SuperShelf.2017 Minnesota Food Shelf Client Survey.www.foodshelfmn.org/resources Published 2018 10. Schutt,Russell(2012).Investigating the Social World:The Process and Practice of Research.Ch.10.Qualitative Data Analysis.p.320-357. http://lefftirshfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/l nvestigating-the-Social-World_Schutt.pdf 11.The Minnesota Food Charter.http://mnfoodcharter.com/the-charter/ 8 Agenda Item 5.c. ENVIRONMENTAL & NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION STAFF REPORT Meeting Date February 26, 2019 REPORT TO: Environmental and Natural Resources Commission REPORT FROM: Shann Finwall, AICP, Environmental Planner PRESENTER: Shann Finwall, AICP, Environmental Planner AGENDA ITEM: 2019 Environmental and Natural Resources Commission Goals Action Requested: ❑ Motion ✓ Discussion ❑ Public Hearing Form of Action: ❑ Resolution ❑ Ordinance ❑ Contract/Agreement ❑ Proclamation Policy Issue: The Environmental and Natural Resources (ENR) Commission ordinance outlines the Commission's duties and responsibilities to include: The Commission shall establish environmental priorities for the city in partnership with the City Council and recommend changes or new policies that control, protect, preserve, and enhance the City's environmental assets. Yearly the ENR Commission adopts goals to help achieve those duties and responsibilities. Recommended Action: Review the 2018 goals and accomplishments and discuss and recommend 2019 goals. Fiscal Impact: Is There a Fiscal Impact? ✓ No ❑ Yes, the true or estimated cost is $0 Financing source(s): ❑ Adopted Budget ❑ Budget Modification ❑ New Revenue Source ❑ Use of Reserves ✓ Other: n/a Strategic Plan Relevance: ❑ Financial Sustainability ❑ Integrated Communication ❑ Targeted Redevelopment ✓ Operational Effectiveness ❑ Community Inclusiveness ❑ Infrastructure & Asset Mgmt. Establishing goals will allow the ENR Commission to operate effectively by setting an agenda and work plan for the year. Background ENR Commission Duties and Responsibilities In order to protect, preserve and enhance the environment of the City of Maplewood, the ENR Commission will: 1 1. Establish environmental priorities for the city in partnership with the City Council. 2. Recommend to the Community Design Review Board, Planning Commission and City Council changes necessary to existing policies, operating procedures and ordinances that control, protect, preserve and enhance the city's environmental assets. 3. Actively participate in and support the mission and goals of the Maplewood Nature Center and Neighborhood Preserves by promoting environmental awareness through educational programs, communications and co-sponsored activities. 4. Proactively promote greater use and appreciations of the city's environmental assets. 5. Review the role of other city groups and how they might assist, support and advise the Environmental and Natural Resources Commission. 6. Sponsor environmental projects to enhance, repair, replace or restore neglected or deteriorating environmental assets of the city. 7. Develop educational programs and materials that foster the mission to the Environmental and Natural Resources Commission. 8. Develop and promote the use of"sustainable practices" for city policies and procedures. Update on 2018 Goals In 2018 the ENR Commission chose to focus on the goals, policies, and action items outlined in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Sustainability Chapter. There were two goals from the Sustainability Chapter that stood out as items the ENR Commission could champion in 2018 including: Goal 1: Adopt a Climate Action and Adaptation Plan that includes strategies for dealing with the effects of climate change. Update: With staff support, paleBLUEdot LLC submitted an application for the MPCA Environmental Assistance grant for the development of Climate Adaptation Plans for four cities including Maplewood, Burnsville, Faribault, and Albert Lea. The grant funds will cover the Climate Adaptation portion of the goal with planning efforts supported through the grant to include: • Climate Risk and Vulnerabilities Review • Community Engagement: Develop a Community Engagement plan with City staff, for outreach to their priority audiences and stakeholders, particularly vulnerable populations. • Climate Adaptation Strategy Development and Prioritization • Compile a Climate Adaptation Plan • Create an Initial Climate Adaptation Plan Communication framework for sharing with the public. Work on the Maplewood Climate Adaptation Plan will begin in April 2019. 2 Goal 2: Conduct a Community Food Assessment to identify barriers and gaps in healthy food access and community assets. Update: Since September 2018 the ENR Commission has partnered with Saint Paul- Ramsey County SHIP on the creation of a Community Food Assessment. Caitlin Pyrz was hired by the Saint Paul-Ramsey County Public Health Department as an intern to complete the assessment. Through the internship, Caitlin will complete her Master Thesis for the University of Minnesota, Master of Public Health program. Caitlin will present the final Community Food Assessment during the February ENR Commission meeting. City Council Strategic Priorities The City Council adopted Maplewood Strategic Plan for 2017 through 2019. The plan serves as the community's roadmap and is used to prioritize initiatives, resources, goals, and department operations and projects. The strategic plan is a big-picture document directing efforts and resources toward a clearly defined vision. The Commission should review the strategic priorities outlined in the plan prior to creating goals for 2018: 1. Financial Stability: Maintain a positive financial position by balancing revenues and expenditures for operations, debt management, and capital investments. Provide quality city services at a level that reflects community values and that are supported by available resources. 2. Coordinated Communication: Create a long-term vision that reflects our community identity and effectively communicates a consistent, broad-based message and brand through a variety of mediums. 3. Effective Governance: Creating a culture that is built on trust, conveys clearly identified goals and expectations, and is focused on the City's long-range mission and vision. The City values progressive initiatives to enhance quality of life, create community inclusiveness, and is committed to being on the forefront of best practices. Organizational focus on being industry leaders in areas such as environmental, policing, EMS and staff development. 4. Targeted Redevelopment: Guide residential development by leveraging resources to expand the tax base but also create housing options that meets the diversity of the community. Promote commercial development through the green building code and innovation that supports business growth. 5. Operational Effectiveness: Valuing organizational efficiencies which are based on performance measurement and accountability. 2019 Action Items In addition to any unfinished goals listed above, following is a list of items which will require review by the Commission in 2019: 3 1. Trash and Recycling Contract: The City's trash and recycling contracts end December 2019. In 2019 the ENR Commission will reviewing solid waste goals and objectives in preparation for new trash and recycling contracts. 2. Climate Adaptation Plan as outlined above. ENR Commissioner 2019 Goal Recommendations During the January 2019 ENR Commission meeting, the Commission recommended that each Commissioner submit goal ideas prior to the February meeting. Following are the goals received by City staff from two Commissioners: Commissioner Ted Redmond 1. Tree Canopy Survey and Carbon Sequestration Study: Reviewing the Tree Canopy Survey and Carbon Sequestration Study and recommend goals to pursue from that study. Recommended goals can be included in the Climate Adaptation Plan or Climate Mitigation Plan. 2. Advancing Renewable Energy Taskforce: Form a subcommittee to explore follow up on the Re-Energize Maplewood work, as well as the renewable energy goals established in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. Examples include exploring next steps to advancing the adaptation of on-site renewables with a communication campaign, workshop, or group purchase campaign. 3. Maplewood Walkability Review and Action Planning: Review how the City's walking and biking paths allow residents to be connected to public transit, local recreation, and businesses. Commissioner Candace Okeson 1. Plastic Bags: Convince businesses to stop using single use plastic bags or reduce their use. Encourage stores to create incentives or offer discounts. 2. Carbon Free Electricity: Electricity from carbon-free sources. Example: Clean Energy Choice provides North St. Paul Electric Utility customers with the opportunity to have 100% of their electricity come from environmentally friendly, renewable sources. The program offers business and residential customers with the option to elect to have 50%, 75%, or 100% of their electricity from renewable sources. 3. Rental Bicycles: Have rental bicycles available throughout the city. 4. Green Automobiles: Convince auto dealerships to sell more green-automobiles and less gas-guzzlers. 5. Zero-Carbon Buildings: Require new buildings to be constructed using zero carbon emissions tactics and supplies. 6. Renewable Energy: Require buildings to either install solar panels or go green (green space roof tops). 4 7. City-Wide Garage/Yard Sales: One way to reduce landfill waste is to prevent usable items from being discarded, the city of Maplewood could hold an annual city-wide yard sale each summer. As a free service to residents the city will provide an Internet ad for each yard sale participant so that they can let potential shoppers know what wares they will be selling, the hours they are selling and how much they are charging. Attachments None 5 Agenda Item 5.d. ENVIRONMENTAL & NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION STAFF REPORT Meeting Date February 26, 2019 REPORT TO: Environmental and Natural Resources Commission REPORT FROM: Shann Finwall, AICP, Environmental Planner PRESENTER: Shann Finwall, AICP, Environmental Planner AGENDA ITEM: Resolution of Appreciation for Ryan Ries Action Requested: ✓ Motion ❑ Discussion ❑ Public Hearing Form of Action: ✓ Resolution ❑ Ordinance ❑ Contract/Agreement ❑ Proclamation Policy Issue: When citizen members end their time of service on a board or commission, the City considers adoption of a resolution of appreciation recognizing the individual for their time committed to serving Maplewood. Recommended Action: Motion to approve a resolution of appreciation for Environmental and Natural Resources Commissioner Ryan Ries. Fiscal Impact: Is There a Fiscal Impact? ✓ No ❑ Yes, the true or estimated cost is $0.00. Financing source(s): ❑ Adopted Budget ❑ Budget Modification ❑ New Revenue Source ❑ Use of Reserves ✓ Other: n/a Strategic Plan Relevance: ❑ Financial Sustainability ❑ Integrated Communication ❑ Targeted Redevelopment ✓ Operational Effectiveness ❑ Community Inclusiveness ❑ Infrastructure & Asset Mgmt. The City of Maplewood appreciates its citizen volunteers who serve on the City's boards and commissions and works to provide recognition for members upon resignation. Background Ryan Ries resigned as a member of the Environmental and Natural Resources Commission after his term expired on September 30, 2018. Attachments 1. Resolution of Appreciation for Ryan Ries Attachment 1 RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION WHEREAS, Ryan Ries has been a member of the Maplewood Environmental and Natural Resources Commission for three years, serving from August 20, 2015 to September 30, 2018. Mr. Ries has served faithfully in those capacities; and WHEREAS, the Environmental and Natural Resources Commission and City Council have appreciated his experience, insights and good judgment; and WHEREAS, Mr. Ries has freely given of his time and energy, without compensation,for the betterment of the City of Maplewood; and WHEREAS, Mr. Ries has shown dedication to his duties and has consistently contributed his leadership and efforts for the benefit of the City. NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY RESOL VED for and on behalf of the City of Maplewood, Minnesota, and its citizens that Ryan Ries is hereby extended our gratitude and appreciation for his dedicated service. Passed by the Maplewood City Council on March 25, 2019. Marylee Abrams, Mayor Passed by the Maplewood Environmental and Natural Resources Commission on February 26, 2019. Ted Redmond, Chairperson Attest: Andrea Sindt, City Clerk Agenda Item 6.a. ENVIRONMENTAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION STAFF REPORT Meeting Date February 26, 2019 REPORT TO: Environmental and Natural Resources Commission REPORT FROM: Shann Finwall, AICP, Environmental Planner PRESENTER: Shann Finwall, AICP, Environmental Planner AGENDA ITEM: Rules of Procedures Action Requested: ✓ Motion ❑ Discussion ❑ Public Hearing Form of Action: ❑ Resolution ❑ Ordinance ❑ Contract/Agreement ❑ Proclamation Policy Issue: The Environmental and Natural Resources (ENR) Commission's Rules of Procedures were adopted by the Commission on October 7, 2008, and amended once since that date. The rules may be amended at any regular meeting by a majority vote. Recommended Action: Approve the revised ENR Commission's Rules of Procedures attached to this report. Fiscal Impact: Is There a Fiscal Impact? ✓ No ❑ Yes, the true or estimated cost is $0. Financing source(s): ❑ Adopted Budget ❑ Budget Modification ❑ New Revenue Source ❑ Use of Reserves ✓ Other: N/A Strategic Plan Relevance: ❑ Financial Sustainability ❑ Integrated Communication ❑ Targeted Redevelopment ✓ Operational Effectiveness ❑ Community Inclusiveness ❑ Infrastructure & Asset Mgmt. Rules of Procedures ensure that the ENR Commission meetings are facilitated and conducted in a manner that will reduce the risk of mishandling important matters. Background The ENR Commission reviewed two proposed staff changes to the Rules during the January meeting including: 1. Community Development Department: When the Rules of Procedure document was drafted, the staff liaison to the ENR Commission was housed in the Community Development and Parks Department. That position is now located in just the Community Development Department. That name change has been reflected on the amended Rules of Procedure. 1 2. Visitor Presentations: The Rules of Procedure states there shall be an agenda item called Visitor Presentations. Last year the City Council eliminated the Visitor Presentation section from its agenda. Removing this from the ENR and other Commission agendas will be consistent with the City Council's agenda policy. This would not eliminate visitors from speaking at a meeting entirely as a visitor could ask to be added to an agenda prior to a meeting, or as stated in the Rules of Procedure, the rules could be temporarily suspended by a majority vote of the commissioners present. The Commission tabled the item until February due to concerns about removing Visitor Presentations from the agenda. The Commission suggested revising the agenda to include "Scheduled Visitors" instead of removing the Visitor section all together. Additionally, the Commission requested that staff include a copy of the City Council's Rules of Civility for review prior to the next meeting. Following are the Rules of Civility from the City Council Policy and Procedures Manual: RULES OF CIVILITY FOR THE CITY COUNCIL, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND OUR COMMUNITY Following are rules of civility the City of Maplewood expects of everyone appearing at Council Meetings, elected and appointed officials, staff and citizens. It is hoped that by following these simple rules, everyone's opinions can be heard and understood in a reasonable manner. We appreciate the fact that when appearing at Council meetings, it is understood that everyone will follow these principles: Speak only for yourself, not for other Councilmembers or citizens - unless specifically tasked by your colleagues to speak for the group or for citizens in the form of a petition. Show respect during comments and/or discussions, listen actively and do not interrupt or talk amongst each other. Be respectful of the process, keeping order and decorum. Do not be critical of Councilmembers, staff or others in public. Be respectful of each other's time keeping remarks brief, to the point and non-repetitive. The Commission also requested changes to Section G of the Rules of Procedures; changing the title of Section G to Representation to the City Council. Other minor changes are noted on the attached Rules of Procedures. Attachments 1. Revised ENR Commission Rules of Procedure 2 Attachment 1 ENVIRONMENTAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION RULES OF PROCEDURES Adopted by Environmental and Natural Resources Commission on October 7, 2008 Amendments Adopted by the City Council on March 8, 2010 Amendments Adopted by the City Council on 2019 We, the members of the Environmental and Natural Resources Commission of the City of Maplewood, Minnesota, created pursuant to Division 4, Sections 18.180 to 18.189 of the Maplewood Code of Ordinances, hereby adopt the following "Rules of Procedures," subject to the provisions of said Article, which is hereby made a part of these Rules: A. APPOINTMENTS The City Council shall make appointments to the Environmental and Natural Resources Commission by following the current City appointment policy. B. MEETINGS 1. All meetings shall be held in the Council Chambers in Maplewood City Hall, 1830 E. County Road B, unless otherwise directed by the CEhairperson or staff, in which case at least 24 hours notice will be given to all Commissioners. 2. Regular meetings shall be held at 7:00 p.m. on the third Monday of each calendar month, provided that when the meeting falls on a legal holiday, such meeting shall be rescheduled. 3. Special meetings may be held upon call by staff, the Chairperson, or in his/her absence, by the Vice Chairperson, or by any other Commissioner with the concurrence of a majority of the Commissioners with at least 72 hours' notice to all Commissioners. C. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND PARKS DEPARTMENT In addition to carrying out the duties prescribed in city ordinance the environmental planner or a designated replacement shall: 1. Prepare the agenda for each meeting. 2. Act as technical advisor on any matter which comes before the Commission. 3. Make written recommendations to the Commission on matters referred to the Commission. 4. Schedule any matter with the City Council that has been reviewed by the Commission that requires City Council approval. 1 D. AGENDA 1. Copies of the agenda, together with pertinent staff reports and copies of the minutes of the previous meeting, shall be made available to each member of the Commission no later than three days prior to the next scheduled meeting. 2. The agenda format shall generally read as follows: a. Call to Order b. Roll Call c. Approval of Agenda d. Approval of Minutes e. Unfinished Business f. New Business g. Scheduled Visitors Preseptatielps h. Commissioner Presentations i. Staff Presentations j. Adjournment 3. Rules of civility as outlined in the City Council Policy and Procedures Manual for City Council and Council meetings will be outlined on the agenda. E. QUORUM 1. A simple majority of the current membership of the Commissioners shall constitute a quorum. 2. Any action by the Commission shall require a majority vote of the members present. F. ELECTION OF OFFICERS A Chairperson and Vice Chairperson shall be elected at the first Environmental and Natural Resources Commission meeting in January of each year and will serve until their successors have been elected. Nominations and members interested in serving as the Chairperson or Vice-Cshairperson shall be announced at the last meeting of the year. The Chairperson will call for further nominations at the first meeting in January each year prior to the election. G. REPRESENTATION TO THE CITY COUNCIL W-ITIES- Or= THE CHAIRPERSON In addition to the duties prescribed in the ordinance, the Chairperson or Chairperson's representative shall represent the Commission at each City Council meeting where a Commission item is on the agenda, to present the Commission's recommendations and to answer questions from the City Council regarding the decision. If the r-hair frim Oho ('�mmicci�r 2 H. CHAIRPERSON AND VICE-CHAIRPERSON 1. The Chairperson, Vice=Chairperson, and such officers as the Commission may decide shall be elected and assume duties according to the current ordinance. 2. In the absence of the Chairperson, the Vice=Chairperson shall perform all duties required of the Chairperson. When both the Chairperson and the Vice-Chairperson are absent, the attending members shall elect a Chairperson pro tem. 3. If the Chairperson resigns from or is otherwise no longer on the Commission, the Vice Chairperson shall become the Acting Chairperson until the Commission can hold an election for new officers. If the Vice-Chairperson resigns or is otherwise no longer on the Commission, the Commission will elect a new Vice=Chairperson at the next possible Commission meeting. I. TEMPORARY COMMITTEES 1. The Commission shall elect by a majority vote such standing committees and temporary committees as may be required and such committees will be charged with the duties, examinations, investigations, and inquiries relative to subjects assigned by the Chair. 2. No standing or temporary committee shall have the power to commit the Commission to the endorsement of any plan or program without the express approval of the Commission. J. VACANCIES The Environmental and Natural Resources Commission positions shall be vacated or recommended to the City Council for vacation according to the current Environmental and Natural Resources ordinances. K. AMENDMENT OR SUSPENSION OF RULES 1. Any of the foregoing rules may be temporarily suspended by a majority vote of the Commissioners present. 2. The "Rules of Procedures" may be amended at any regular meeting by a majority vote. L. RULES OF ORDER In all points not covered by these rules, the commission shall be governed in its procedures by Rosenberg's Rules of Order, Simple Parliamentary Procedures for the 21 sl Century. 3