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Community Development City of Ell< River 2004 Annual Report PLANNING MISSION ST ATE.ME.NT: The mission of the Planning Department is the orderly development of a livable and sustainable Elk River community. YEAR IN REVIEW In 2004, a number of plans were considered and adopted by the City Council. These plans are the foundation of future development and build out for the city. In addition to the culmination of a number of planning processes, the planning staff reviewed numerous case files, supported the efforts of the Economic Development staff, and implemented a new 24/7 web-enabled service. LONG-RANGE PLANNING PROJECTS Comprehensive Land Use and T ransponation Plans The City Council adopted the Comprehensive land Use and Transportation Plans on August 16,2004. The Comprehensive Land Use Plan identifies an ideal population at build out of approximately 37,000 people. Significant changes to the land use of the city include: creation of two new land use designations (Old Town and Commercial Reserve) and phasing out of the Agricultural District in favor of Rural Residential north of County Road 33. This will increase the density of housing in the area from I unit per every 10 acres to I -.. unit per every 2.5 acres. I Ii ~ iliill.1iI The Transportation Plan identifies immediate, mid, and long-term transportation projects that the city should implement in order to maintain adequate levels of service on the city's roads. Many of the transportation solutions will require extensive cooperation and coordination with Sherburne County and the Minnesota Department of Transportation. The Transportation Plan identifies areas where new corridors should be built, projects levels of congestion based on the land Use Plan, and suggests policies that the city should consider. Natural Resources Inventory and Greenway Plan The City Council authorized the Parks and Recreation Commission to solicit Requests for Proposal for the completion of a Natural Resource Inventory (NRI) and greenway plan. This was a direct recommendation from the Comprehensive Plan. In March 2004, Bonestroo and Associates were hired to complete this work. They used existing data and field inspections to identify and evaluate natural communities within the Rural City of Ell< River 2004 Annual Report Residential and Agricultural Districts. These communities were evaluated using the Minnesota land Cover Classification System (MlCCS). The results of the evaluation were compiled into map form and a report provides recommendations for areas to be preserved or restored. The final report also provides an analysis of the city's current regulations and how they can be modified to implement the recommendations and the greenway. This information will be shared with the development community to promote more sensitive developments. Other Proiects Planning staff provided an update to the Housing and Redevelopment Authority and City Council on the status of the city's housing stock. This was an update to the study that was completed in 2003. The planners also provided assistance to the Economic Development staff regarding the long-term vision for the downtown area north of Highway 10 along Jackson Avenue. Assistance included technical (provision of maps and graphics) and brainstorming of alternative concepts for the Housing and Redevelopment Authority to consider. TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES Website Additions To improve customer service, the Planning Department uses the city's website to provide information. Information that is available on the Planning Department webpage includes: · Development Application and Schedule · Home Occupation Application · Zoning Information Request Form and Link to Sherburne County's Property Information · List of Current Developments-Type and Contact Information · Zoning and Land Use Maps · Comprehensive land Use and Transportation Plans · Residential lot Inventory The Natural Resources Inventory information will be added to the webpage shortly. .. A new 24/7 service titled Request Partner has been added to the ~t~!~~!!~!! homepage on the right hand navigation bar. This service allows residents to ask for information or to submit concerns about community or neighborhood issues. Web-enabled, this service has been 'live' since November 2004 and has been advertised in the Current as well as in The McPherson Report on ErtV 12, the city's local access channel. A key feature of this customer service enhancement is the ability of the system to send the request to the correct staff person for quick and immediate response. However, this service should not be used in the case of any emergency. City of Ell< River 2004 Annual Report Council Chambers Improvements During the City Hall remodeling project, the Council Chambers received a facelift. Part of that facelift included new cameras and Smartboard technology. The Smartboard has allowed the Planning staff to improve their presentations to the Planning Commission and City Council, thereby improving the understanding of residents watching at home. This technology has also been used with in-house staff for long-range planning and brainstorming sessions. LAND USE ApPLICATIONS As in any year, the primary responsibility of the Planning staff is the review of land use applications, including coordination of a citywide staff review. This citywide review includes staff from the Building and Environmental, Engineering, Fire, Police, Streets, Utilities and Wastewater departments. In 2004, the department processed and reviewed 147 land use cases, up 17% from 2003: Administrative Subdivisions 6 Conditional Use Permits 42 · Wal-Mart · US Bank · St. Andrews Church/School Expansion · Pullman Place · ABRA Auto Body Relocation 5 10 7 5 7 15 Easement Vacations General Planning Home Occupation land Use Amendments Ordinance Amendments Preliminary Plats · River Park · Belmont Estates · Windsor Meadows · Prestigious Woodland Hills City of Ell< River 2004 Annual Report Final Plats Site Plan Review 9 10 Gradient Technology · Orluck Industries Subdivision Exemptions Variances Zone Changes 12 8 II · County jail Expansion City of Elk River 2004 Annual Report STATISTICS 2004 land Use Applications 8 11 6 7 5 7 DADMIN. SUBDIVISION o EASEMENT VACATION . HOME OCCUPATION ilORDINANCE AMEND. .FINAL PLAT DSUBD. EXEMPTION .ZONE CHANGE . CONDITIONAL USE DGENERAL PLANNING III LAND USE AMEND. o PRELIMINARY PLAT .SITE PLAN REVIEW DVARIANCE Five Year Activity Comparison by Application 50 .... 0 40 o S ; ~ 30 ,g rJ E :: 20 ~ c. Z: 10 o 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 Year DADMIN. SUBDIVISION DGENERAL PLANNING 1I0RDINANCE AMEND. .SITE PLAN REVIEW .ZONE CHANGE . CONDITIONAL USE . HOME OCCUPATION o PRELIMINARY PLAT o SUBD. EXEMPTION o EASEMENT VACATION I!!I LAND USE AMEND. .FINAL PLAT IJVARIANCE I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I STAFF DIRECTORY NAME Michele McPherson Scott Harlicker Chris Leeseberg Debbie Huebner City of Ell< River 2004 Annual Report TITLE Director of Planning Senior Planner Parks Planner/Planner Administrative Secretary START DATE May 17, 1999 January 2, 1996 April 9, 200 I March 23, 1993 City of Ell< River 2004 Annual Report I 2005 GOALS & PROJECTS The 2005 Goals and Projects for the department can be grouped into five areas: · Comprehensive Plan Implementation · Natural Resource Inventory Implementation · Inter-department Planning Projects · Housekeeping/Ongoing Projects · Staffing Changes COMPREHENSIVE PLAN IMPLEMENTATION Now that the Comprehensive Plan has been adopted, the implementation tools need to be modified to be consistent with the Plan's long-term vision for the growth of the city. Three new land use districts have been identified, Old Town, Mixed Use, and Commercial Reserve. Current zoning standards do not address these three land use categories and need to be modified to achieve the goals in the plan for these areas. The area north of CSAH 33 is projected to change from agricultural to rural residential densities in phases over the next five years. Staff will need to prepare appropriate ordinance amendments and work with city and county engineers to prepare an access management plan. The mineral excavation areas have been identified in the Plan as future growth areas for the city. It has been determined that it may be possible to extend sewer and water to this area of the city. However, a focus area plan needs to be prepared to identify land uses and transportation corridors. Input from the area's property owners will be important in preparing this focus area plan. This project is proposed to start in the fourth quarter of 2005. NATURAL RESOURCE INVENTORY IMPLEMENTATION Several recommendations regarding the city's implementation tools were made in the final report for the Natural Resource Inventory (NRI). These include changes to the cluster development regulations in the subdivision ordinance, wetland buffer ordinance, stormwater ordinance, park dedication requirements among others. The department will need to coordinate the review of these regulations across department and commission lines in order to implement resource preservation and restoration as recommended in the NRI. The challenge will be to balance these goals with the goals of private property owners. With these new recommendations, it is the department's hope to resolve the tree preservation ordinance issue that has been unfinished. In addition to ordinance changes, development agreements will be modified to reflect the requirements of the city's NPDES program. City of Ell< River 2004 Annual Report INTER-DEPARTMENT PLANNING PROJECTS The Planning staff provides support to other departments as they conduct short and long-term planning and visioning. These projects include Westbound liquor, Library expansion, Public Works Master Plan, Downtown Revitalization, and others. This support includes site layout, concept options development, map and graphic preparation, and documentation. Once the planning and visioning is complete, staff assists in the required regulatory reviews of these same projects. In 2004 staff assisted the Recreation Department in the design and construction of the skatepark located at Lions Park Projects for 2005 include the Public Works Master Plan, downtown park and riverwalk design and plan preparation, development of the city-owned Cargill industrial area and items related to the Downtown Revitalization project. Other projects that are related to 2004 regulatory approvals include crossing of Trott Brook between Twin Lakes Estates and River Park, review of completed projects such as US Bank and the Wal-Mart expansion for compliance with conditions of approval, and County Road 40 reconstruction. HOUSEKEEPING/ONGOING PROJECTS In 2004, the Planning Department took on the tasks of addressing subdivisions and maintaining the property database associated with the permit software. An update to the permit software was completed in Fall 2004 and it is clear that data needs to be "cleaned up." In addition to maintaining the city's GIS data, this will be something to maintain on a regular basis. New land use and zoning maps relating to the Comprehensive Plan will need to be prepared for distribution to the public. Other projects completed annually by the department include: · Maintenance of a Residential Lot Inventory · Maintenance of a Development List · Updated No Hunting/No Burning Map · Updated Snowmobile Map · Updated Housing Status Report STAFFING CHANGES The City Council has authorized the hiring of a Community Development Director in 2005. This is likely to change the group dynamics of the Planning and other Divisions that work together to oversee the orderly development of the city. City of Ell< River 2004 Annual Report ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT MISSION STATEMENT: Our mission is to actively participate in economic development by utilizing available resources to leverage viable and healthy investments in our community. Such investments will create diverse job opportunities as a result of a stable and growing business and industrial base. We will strive to provide quality services, maintain a favorable tax rate, supply full-cycle housing options for our residents, and foster an environment that will result in substantial growth of our local economy. In addition, the strategic industrial marketing mission is to become the Light Industrial Hub of the Northwest Metro. YEAR IN REVIEW ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Economic Development Strategic Plan The Economic Development Strategic Plan provides a framework for the City Council and Economic Development and Housing and Redevelopment Commissions to work within and focuses staff energies on those priority areas important to the economic health of the city. The original Strategic Plan was adopted in 1997 and was modified in 1999 reflect a reorganization of priority issues. jim Brimeyer, Brimeyer & Associates facilitated the 2004 strategic planning discussions which included participation from the City Council, EDA, HRA and EDA subcommittees Incubator Advisory, Finance, Marketing and city staff. The 2004-2007 Strategic Plan was adopted in late 2004 by the EDA, HRA and City Council. The priority goals identified in the Plan are: I) Industrial Development 2) Central Business District 3) Transportation 4) Commercial Development. 2004 Advertising & Public Relations Campaign The advertising campaign in 2004 was consistent with previous years in order to make a stronger impression for Elk River as the Light Industrial Hub of the Northwest Metro. Advertisements were placed in the MN Real Estate journal Leasing Guide, The Business journal, and the Manufacturers Alliance Newsletter. The advertisements featured photos of Cymbet, Display Solutions, E & 0 Tool and Plastics, Metal Craft Machine & Engineering, Orluck Industries, SoftPac, and Sportech. The economic development newsletter, the Progress Partner Dispatch, continued for the second year in 2004. April, july, and December editions highlighted issues important to manufacturers and site selectors. Approximately 500 people receive the newsletter, including key accounts, and local and area manufacturers. In October, a direct mail piece was distributed to the same 500 people promoting the Micro Loan Program and the Technical Assistance Program. City of Elk River 2004 Annual Report Case study articles featuring SoftPac Industries, Orluck Industries, and Gradient Technology were developed in 2004. The articles appear on the Web site and are included in appropriate marketing packets to industrial prospects. Marketing Events In February, the City of Elk River participated as a co-sponsor of the MN Real Estate journal Economic Development and Site Selection conference. The conference focused on site selection, financial incentives, and in particular jOBZ. The Director of Economic Development was a panelist discussing financial incentives other than jOBZ. Participation in the event was a strategy for building relationships with key accounts including commercial real estate developers and brokers. In October, the City of Elk River participated with the MN Department of Employment & Economic Development (DEED) and the Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce in the recognition of MN Manufacturing & Technology Week. The recognition event included tours of Metal Craft Machine & Engineering and Solors Optional Axis, followed by a luncheon/keynote speaker address at Lions Park Center. A full-page advertisement was featured in the Elk River Star News thanking the list of local manufacturers for their contributions to the community. The Economic Development booth was also rotated in three local banks. The booth featured photos and a list of local manufacturers. Energy City Marketing The Energy City brochure and the Web site were updated and the Energy City booth was included in the Chamber's Business Expo. Economic Development Web Page Updates were made throughout 2004 to the Economic Development page of the city's website located at www.cLelk-river.mn.us. There is a link for economic development information directly on the home page entitled "Grow Your Business." Economic Development Micro Loans Several loans were paid off and closed out in 2004, including Beaudry Convenience, Ink Wizards, Olde Main Eatery, and Ultra Image Powder Coating. Six micro loans remain in current standing, including Display Solutions, Galli, Lake Assault Custom Boats, Minnesota Fabrication & Machine, Second Generation Properties (NAPA), and Water Laboratories. The loan fund ended with an approximate $900,047.98 cash balance in 2004. Upon the EDA Finance Committee recommendation, the EDA approved several amendments to the Micro Loan Policy, including the ability to loan up to $100,000, which was previously capped at $50,000. The EDA approved two new loan applications in 2004. A $50,000 loan was provided to Display Solutions for the purchase of machinery and equipment necessary to begin operations in Elk River. The company operates within the former Ultra Image Powder Coating space located in the McChesney Industrial Park. The loan is structured as a participation loan with American National Bank. The company committed to creating 7 new full-time jobs at no less than a $12.00/hour wage within 2 years. City of Elk River 2004 Annual Report A $100,000 loan was provided to Badger Ventures, LLC (Gradient Technology) for the purchase of real estate necessary for operation. The company began construction of a new building in the Elk River Business Park in July. The loan is structured as a participation loan with The Bank of Elk River. The company committed to creating 5 new full-time jobs at no less than a $15.00/hour wage within 2 years. Gradient Technology Tax Abatement Project With the help of the City of Elk River, officials of Badger Ventures, LLC and Gradient Technology, Inc, formerly of Blaine, moved into a new 13.000sf facility in November. Gradient's primary business is demilitarizing munitions for the US Department of Defense. The Elk River facility will be used strictly for corporate headquarters, research and development and equipment fabrication. The actual "demilling" takes place at military bases and other locations. Gradient paid up front for the two-acre, $145,556 lot in the Elk River Business Park, but is being reimbursed through tax abatell1ent equally from the City of Elk River and Sherburne County for a period up to 10-years. The city also provided a $100,000 Industrial Incentive Micro Loan. Gradient Technology employs 13 highly skilled employees, 7 of which are located in Minnesota. In addition to retaining the present workforce, Gradient will create a minimum of 5 full time positions at a minimum of $15.00 per hour (exclusive of benefits) within two years. Orluck Industries, Inc. Tax Abatement Project Following the economic ups and downs the past few years Orluck Industries remained a patient opportunity for the City of Elk River. The company, formerly of Dayton, is a manufacturer of high precision metal and plastic components serving industries in Minnesota and across the United States. The Elk River Economic Development Department crafted an aggressive package of financial assistance and city staff shepherded the project allowing for construction to begin in the fall of a $1.4 million, 23,000sf manufacturing facility. Orluck Industries will occupy about 15,000sf with its 15 full-time employees with jobs that pay $15.00-20.00 per hour. The remaining roughly 8,000sf will provide much needed lease space for new and growing businesses. The city had acquired the 2.79 acre lot, located at the southwest corner of Joplin Street and Business Center Drive from Sherburne County upon tax forfeiture in 200 I. The city sold the $20 I ,520 property upfront to Orluck, but is being reimbursed through tax abatement equally from the City of Elk River and Sherburne County for a period up to 12-years. Industrial/Business Park Development In November 2004 the City Council held a joint work session with the EDA to discuss its sites and development options. The sites under discussion were: · City-owned Cargillland-60 net acres, Light Industrial & Commercial · EDA-owned Brown land-45 net acres, Business Park The EDA and Council provided staff direction to proceed in developing a plan for Phase I improvements and development of the sites listed above. The goal is to have lots available for immediate industrial development and to put all industrial land in Elk River on a level playing field in price and financing assistance, allowing the prospect to select a site based on the site location and its amenities, rather than on price. Contingent upon the EDA,and Council City of Elk River 2004 Annual Report approval, it is anticipated that infrastructure improvements will begin summer 2005 for the sale and development of lots by fall 2005. In late December 2004, the Sherburne County Board of Commissioners took action to purchase the 76-acre Elk Path Business Park land. Industrial Business Retention & Expansion Visits Staff and EDA Commissioners attended six visits in 2004, including Contour Mold, Cretex, Great River Energy, NRG, Supermats, and Riverside Manufacturing. The goal of the visits is to develop a relationship with the local manufacturers for a better understanding of their issues and future needs. Business Incubator Program The EDA has been operating the Business Incubator Program in conjunction with Genesis Business Centers since 1996. The goal of the Business Incubator Program is to develop long- term relationships with young, growing companies that have an emphasis on new technologies and to help these companies become established in Elk River. Since the program's inception, 9 companies have entered the Incubator to further develop their products and grow their business. The EDA currently leases three suites from building owner, Larry Hickman. Two renewals were granted in 2004 to Incubator tenant, KnowledgeNetica Corporation (K- Netica). K-Netica develops intelligent software to interpret and translate written and spoken human languages. The sohware has a number of key applications for commercial, government, military, and personal use. One renewal was granted to Incubator tenant, LapTwo Technology Corporation. Early during its first year in the Incubator, LapTwo did research and development work in several product areas involving new uses of the internet, web servers, and hand-held PDA computers. In the first quarter of 2004, a new product opportunity was identified. The product, to be sold as a software package, is a management and security system for internet hospitality "hot spot" providers such as restaurants, hotels, motels, and the like. The full-scale product development project began in March. In 2004 staff continued to maintain a close relationship with incubator graduate, Cymbet Corporation for their anticipated expansion project in Elk River and on their successful funding round of $16 million. HOUSING & REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Housing Work Plan In follow up to a 9-month Housing Work Plan that included presentations from a variety of housing resources, the HRA directed staff to conduct an informal/non-scientific survey of Elk River manufacturers and retail/service businesses regarding housing availability and affordability issues. The results of the survey were presented to the HRA in February of 2004. In summary, 66% of retail/service businesses surveyed and 64% of manufacturers surveyed felt that Elk River was meeting the housing needs of their employees. It was of HRA consensus that the next steps in the Housing Work Plan are the following: City of Elk River 2004 Annual Report I · Utilize existing city plans, such as the Comprehensive Plan and the Economic Development Strategic Plan, to guide housing decisions. · Utilize workforce data (updated quarterly by the State of MN) to analyze the types of workers and wages in Elk River and compare it to housing affordability/availability in Elk River. · Continue to consider the appropriate housing balance for Elk River. · Consider conducting an informal housing survey to manufacturers and retail/service businesses on a biannual basis. Downtown North of Hwy 10 Visioning Prompted by a Tax Abatement application from Arrow Building Center that was later withdrawn, the HRA began a visioning process in late June of 2004 for Downtown North of Hwy 10. As part of this process, the HRA reviewed the redevelopment process, the recent planning efforts, and the current conditions of the area. The HRA then developed a study area boundary and long-term vision for the area. The study area and the long-term vision was incorporated into a series of concept options for the area. The approved concept includes mixed use, retail service, and single family rehabilitation in the area. It was of HRA consensus that the approved concept plan be utilized when responding to redevelopment proposals and inquiries from the private sector and that staff continue to monitor the area for development activity and update the HRA as needed. Downtown Revitalization Project In late 200 I the HRA developed goals and objectives for the Downtown Revitalization Project. The goal of the project is to enhance downtown Elk River as a vibrant retail, commercial and residential area and revitalize private investment downtown. Following a request for proposals and interview process the HRA selected MetroPlains Development as the project developer in August 2002 and entered into a preliminary redevelopment agreement together. Over the past 2 years the city and developer have completed a number of steps to refine the project including market and financial feasibility studies and gathering community input on the project proposed as follows: The plan for the Jackson Block includes a three story building with about 10,000 square feet of first floor commercial along Main Street and Jackson Avenue; 32 units of rental housing and approximately 50 underground parking stalls and 16 surface stalls. The plan for the Bluff Block includes a four story building with about 10,000 square feet of commercial space along Main Street; 60 to 68 units of for-sale housing and approximately 110 underground parking stalls. Discussions to address parking concerns, financing, and the development agreement continued in 2004 with several issues being resolved by the end of the year. The HRA and Council supported the concept to remove the Elk River Municipal Utilities building and close the King Avenue-Highway 10 access in order to expand the public parking lot in this area. Preliminary designs indicated the addition of up to 50 parking stalls. Construction of the parking lot is anticipated to begin spring 2005 with summer completion. City of Elk River 2004 Annual Report A key component to the process during 2004 was with regard to the project financing. A Small Cities Development Program (SCDP) grant from the MN Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) was awarded upon the city's 2003 application. While the application requested grant funds for the rehabilitation of commercial and residential buildings downtown, DEED awarded only $400,000 for the Jackson Block rental housing new construction, which will be provided as a long-term low-interest loan to MetroPlains. The City Council established Tax Increment Financing District No. 22 (a redevelopment district) in November. By mid-year MetroPlains had executed a purchase agreement for one of the three Bluff Block properties, 641 Main Street. Another key component of the process was the negotiation and approval of the final development agreement. Earlier in the year the HRA and City Council concurred that the project should include both the Jackson Block and Bluff Block developments. In addition to the linkage between the Jackson and Bluff projects the development agreement outlines the project schedule and financial assistance to be provided. With the HRA's recommendation, the City Council approved the Final Development Agreement with MetroPlains Development, LLC on December 6,2004. Communication with the public has been a key component of the Downtown Revitalization Project. The multiple means of communications continued in 2004 to including the following: · Monthly project updates on the city website · Q & A inserts and project coverage in the Star News · Project update articles in The Current · Monthly updates to River's Edge Downtown Association group · Monthly HRAlCouncil meeting updates · Direct mailing of meeting notices I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I City of Ell< River 2004 Annual Report DEPARTMENT STAFF NAME Catherine Mehelich Heidi Steinmetz Support Staff Debbie Huebner Jessica Miller TITLE Director of Economic Development Executive Director, Economic Development Authority Executive Director, Housing & Redevelopment Authority Assistant Director of Economic Development Administrative Secretary (Planning Dept.) Secretary (Administration Dept.) START DATE June 2000 December 200 I March 1993 February 200 I City of Elk River 2004 Annual Report 2005 GOALS & PROJECTS The Economic Development Strategic Plan provides a framework for the City Council and EDA and HRA to work within and focuses staff energies on those priority areas important to the economic health of the city. The 2004-2007 Economic Development Strategic Plan includes the following major goals: I. Industrial Development · Attract new businesses and expand existing businesses to increase the city's industrial tax base. II. Central Business District · Undertake planning and activities that facilitate redevelopment in the Central Business District. III. Transportation · Advocate and support proactive planning for improvements to the local and area transportation system. IV. Commercial Development · Encourage desired commercial development in identified areas. D(}umiof,()1'V 1(evita/izatiorv City of PROJECT DESCRIPTION Elk ~ - , River --, NOVEMBER 2004 Enhancing Downtown Elk Rivers Role As a Vital Retail, Commercial and Residential Area. Primary Goal of Downtown Revitalization Project: The City of Elk River has partnered with MetroPlains Development to assure the long-term viability of downtown by making a connection to the rest of the community and by utilizing the riverfront location. Redevelopment will enhance downtown Elk River's role as a residential, retail and commercial area and also revitalize investment in the downtown business district. Development Objectives: · Mixed use (residential/retail/service) · Consideration of the historic context study results · Strengthen connection to the community · Traditional downtown design elements · Brick, stucco, stone materials with visual breaks in the building design · Increased residential density · Pedestrian orientation · Increase exposure to the riverfront · Recognize those buildings that have potential for rehabilitation · Replace markeVeconomic obsolete buildings · Multiple types of housing products (Le. townhomes, senior rental coops, market rate apartments) . BLUFF BLOCK DEVELOPMENT - Approx. 10,000 sq. ft. commercial on first floor along Main St. - 60 to 68 units of for-sale housing - 4 total stories - Approx. 110 below grade parking stalls - Connection to City with plaza on corner of Main St. and Cty. Rd. 42 and potential connection to river walk . JACKSON BLOCK DEVELOPMENT - Approx. 10,000 sq. ft. commercial on first floor along Jackson Ave. and at the corner of Jackson Ave. and Main St. - 32 units rental housing - 3 total stories - Approx. 50 below grade parking stalls and 16 surface parking stalls . BLUFF BLOCK DEVELOPMENT --- / /' .- ----- . JACKSON BLOCK DEVELOPMENT ~ -I -~ ,,; L-- ~ ~~\: /;,::;" ~ -l/fiT ~ ___________ i;! ~ ~ -[-:;; ~~ ~ _L:c '4 ~ ~ .?I~~~ I l-l--- ~~G. ~ r-C--rT '= ~ ~ 0 i= ~ [V~ ~ ~ ~~ ~ ~~ \ '-'~~" t-1i ~ : ~ ~,~ ~ ~ = B ~= i 1- ----,/ ~ =L f:' "- V- I-- iIiif -[\;0 ~ f\ ~ (" J ~~ l::=llIla ~ 1\ ~ ~~:;~~?~ ~"- l.lt:=<4 II I I ~ 11:;iJ 7 yo ~ -c:+ \;Ie, ~ < ~ ill ftt<h f-----j '(:3A 11":'jl, ".) - I-- ~I~..J', ~ ~ I-- -r 0 ~ rl'l'::-' (l) --.! ;I; ~ I- -t:" - ~n- I-- ~~ I-- I- I--- ~ b.J!] 1---1--- ~ 0:7:- I==.i U .L::Lr= .. ~ == N L- ~~ ,.. 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I--If;:i ~ ~~tv _ v: 7~~1ff1l-;; 9A!J@rT 11~1 ~? \-~ ~I I l\\~w I ',.< '--- III I I~ 1J ~~ r-.___ r--.....J I III I I:;: -1 - - 'j / '37\V \H;:; ~ --.J 1..2 n... r.Ia Yj I - ~ ~ I PI ~nm JFli:nN Z r ; "jl f == ~ ~ i (lllUfr\- ---....J '//1 // '1 -I ;== d <5 I \ \ " Y I j n I- W W 0::: t- (.f) ~ 0:::: _(f) <( ZO- o --.J o -.J o o I U (f) I lr) ell !a " ::J o i5 Q ~ ~ U ~ :iij~ ~ 2 d' City of Ell< River 2004 Annual Report BUILDING & ENVIRONMENTAL MISSION STATEMENT: Our mission is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of Elk River. We will achieve quality service through clear communications, remaining current and providing assistance in a timely manner. YEAR IN REVIEW BUILDING ACTIVITIES Single Family-There were 30 I single-family home starts in Elk River during 2004 with an average valuation of $188,376 (excluding the price of the lot). In 2003 there were 285 new homes built in Elk River with an average valuation of $187,727. The peak valuation for houses in Elk River was $195,717 in 2002. An estimated cost per square foot provided by the state is used to figure valuation. The city has not changed the estimated cost per square foot figures since 2000; so the decrease in the average valuation over the past two years reflects smaller houses being built. Multifamily-The market for town homes and condominiums remains strong in the city and staff expects the demand for this type of housing to remain steady into the near future. With land prices in Elk River ever-increasing, the "retired people looking to forgo yard work" market for town homes is being supplemented by the starter home market because they are typically more affordable than a traditional single family home. During 2004 there were 235 townhome and condominium units and 12 twin home units built as compared to 229 town home units and 36 twinhome units in 2003. Apartments-No apartment units were built in 2004. Pullman Place, which is a three-story building that has the appearance of an apartment, is actually a condominium where the units are individually owned. Two thousand four is the last year that the Building Department will be responsible for the city's yearly apartment inspection and licensing program. Starting in 2005 this program will be the responsibility of the Fire Department. Elk River currently has 53 apartment buildings with a total of 1,148 units. Commercial/Industrial/Institutional (CII)- The valuation of commercial, industrial, and institutional construction increased in 2004, rising to $22,342,242 as compared to $7, 100,808 in 2003. An addition to the Sherburne County Jail accounted for about $15,900,000 of the valuation in 2004. PermitsNaluation-Overall, construction activity remained high posting similar numbers to the city's previous record year in 2003. In 2004 the total valuation of construction set a new high at $120,729,413 with 4,068 permits. In 2003 the total valuation of construction was $97,994,046 with 4,476 permits being pulled. Some examples of how the Building and Environmental Department is coping with the increase demand for its services include hiring an additional building inspector, mobile computers in vehicles, and combining certain inspections. City of Elk River 2004 Annual Report Staff anticipates the single and multi-family home markets to remain strong in 2005. In addition, an increase in the commercial sector is expected with projects like the Wal-Mart expansion on the horizon. ENVIRONME.NTAL IssuE.S Energy City-The most significant Energy City highlight was the Elk River School District's involvement in the Sustainable School Project. This program continues to receive national attention. The new elementary school proposed within the city limits in 2005 promises to be the most energy efficient to date. Another major Energy City project in 2005 will be the construction of Energy House III in cooperation with the Suburban Northwest Builders Association and numerous other governmental entities and private companies. Cleanup Days-The city hosted its normal Spring Clean-up Day at the Maintenance Garage. Sherburne County granted $8,615 of SCORE funds for this event. The high amount of SCORE funds granted by the county reflects the success of this event. In addition, a week-long Fall Clean-up event was held in cooperation with the Elk River landfill. Citizen participation at this event was not as high as anticipated. No SCORE funds were received for this event. A week- long Spring Clean-up event will be held in 2005 starting at the Elk River Landfill and culminating with the city's normal Clean-up Day at the Maintenance Garage. Staff will discuss the fall event with Council prior to making plans. Residential Garbage/Recycling Contract-The city licensed 17 refuse haulers that pick up commercial accounts. This is up from last year's licensing due to stepped up staff enforcement. To help encourage residential recycling the city offered a $15 rebate. There were 232 households that received this rebate as compared to 129 in 2003. The city's haulers estimated that 61 % of the households in the city participated in the residential recycling program in 2004. Recycling reduced the amount of waste disposed of in the city by 17.5 %; up from 15.9% in 2003. In 2005 the city will be offering a $25 rebate as an added incentive. In total, the city's refuse and recycling program collected 14,847,540 pounds of material in 2004. County Ditches-The city paid Sherburne County approximately $80,616.98 in ditch assessments. The bulk of this money (over $61,000) was spent for cleaning out Ditch 31, which runs from the Elk River Country Club to north of County Road #33. This work was necessary to keep properties from flooding; however, as a result a DNR public water in Woodland Trails Park was drained. Staff anticipates an additional large expense in 2005 for restoring this pond. The other big issue was the Subordinate Ditch Agreement that will set the one branch of Ditch 28 (that is mostly in Big lake Township) off from the other two branches that are mostly in Elk River. This issue will be finalized in 2005. Gravel Mining-Two gravel excavation permits were processed. Schuer Mining expanded their IS-acre pit by an additional 66 acres and J & B Mining received approval for an approximately 40-acre pit, which included mining into the ground water. In 2005, Staff anticipates Midwest Asphalt to request an amendment to their permit to mine into the ground water and a possible new pit being proposed by C. S. McCrossan (south of 221 st Avenue). Landfill- The Elk River landfill is currently conducting an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) regarding a proposed expansion to their mixed municipal solid waste (MSW) operation. They are proposing to expand to the south of their current MSW cells. The Landfill will submit an City of Ell< River 2004 Annual Report application with the city for this expansion as soon as the EIS process is completed, which will be late 2005 or early 2006. Wetland Conservation Act (YVCA)- The city processed 15 wetland permits as well as numerous wetland inquiries. The city no longer receives state funding for this program, which is administered through Sherburne County. Great River Energy-Great River Energy (GRE) had an equipment malfunction in 2004 that mayor may not be ruled as an exceedance by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). If it is not ruled as an exceedance, GRE has not had one since 200 I. GRE renewed their permits with the city in 2004. NRG Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) Plant-There were II incidents at the plant in 2004 where the Fenwal system discharged to counter act explosions. This is a typical amount for a year. Even though the refuse is thoroughly sorted prior to processing, it is still nearly impossible to remove all materials, such as aerosol cans, that can cause explosions. NRG renewed their permits with the city in 2004. Old City Dump-Another round of testing for contamination was conducted at the Old City Dump site in Hillside Park. The test results fell below the Health Risk Limits (HRls) set by the state, but was much closer to these limits than in past years due to the state lowering them. Staff recommends testing continues until the city is confident the new HRLs will not be exceeded. Lake Orono-Many of the same issues staff worked on with the lake Orono Water Quality Task Force in the past will need to be carried over to 2005. The draw down of the lake to eradicate Curly leaf Pondweed in 2003 was partially successful but will need to be done again in late 2005. The lake was only drawn down 4 feet the first time and did not get the entire Curly leaf Pondweed, which went to a depth of about 5 feet. Reducing the number of geese in the lake area was not necessary in 2004, but will be in the near future, probably 2005. Lastly, efforts will be aimed at improving the quality of the water entering the lake from upstream (Le. reducing fecal coliform counts). The Park and Recreation Director is also working with the lake Association on a number of recreational issues. Oak Wilt Program-The city received an additional $15,000 Minnesota Releaf grant to continue its oak wilt suppression program. This program is being conducted in cooperation with Sherburne County, Big Lake, Livonia, and Baldwin Townships. National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permits-The city submitted its NPDES permit to the MPCA in 2003, but 2004 was the first full year of actually administering this permit, which has proven to be an immense task. A grant from MPCA to aid in this effort was applied for but the city was rejected. Getting compliance on the requirements of this permit from non-city entities has proven difficult. The city's Engineering Department developed a standard Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan for developers. In addition, the city has been failing or stopping building inspections and plats until erosion control requirements have been met. The city is current with the requirements of their permit but will be asking for an extension on a new mandate to provide data on new or expanded storm water City of Ell< River 2004 Annual Report discharges going back to 1988 and implementing measures to bring current discharged back to these 1988 levels. HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION (HPC) To follow up on the 2003 archeological modeling and historic literature search, the city applied for and received a $10,000 grant through the State Historic Preservation Office to test this model. Some very interesting sites were discovered including a potential Paleo site and apparent sites from the city's early logging industry. The city has applied for an additional $14,800 in 2005 to excavate the Paleo site and one of the logging industry sites. The plan is to allow the public to participate in excavating the logging site, if the grant is awarded. City of Ell< River 2004 Annual Report STATISTICS 2004 BUILDING PERMIT REPORT TOTAL PERMITS ISSUED FOR 2004 4,068 (Includes building, grading, housing, sign, street disruption, septic, demo, plumbing, heating, gas) PERMITS ISSUED RESIDENTIAL NEW: SINGLE FAMILY DWELLINGS TWIN HOMES MULTI-FAMILY (3 or more units) APARTMENT BUILDINGS 301 12 235 -0- TOTAL UNITS 548 RESIDENTIAL BUILDING VALUATIONS: SINGLE FAMILY DWELLINGS TWIN HOMES MUL TI-FAMIL Y $ 56,70 I ,395 $1,617,200 $37,143,070 TOTAL VALUATION FOR OTHER RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION, I.E. DECKS, GARAGES, ETC. TOTAL RESIDENTIAL VALUATION $2.925.506 $ 98,387,171 * AVERAGE VALUATION FOR SINGLE FAMILY HOMES IN 2004: $ 188,376 ($187,727 IN 2003) COMMERCIAUINDUSTRIAUINSTITUTIONAL VALUATIONS: COMMERCIAUNEW $ 1,507,883 INDUSTRIAUNEW $2,648,167 INSTITUTIONAUNEW -0- APARTMENT BUILDINGS -0- COMMERCIAUINDUSTRIAUINSTITUTIONAL, ADDITIONS, REMODELING, ALTERATIONS $ 18.186.192 TOTAL (Commercial/Industrial/Institutional) $22,342,242 GRAND TOTAL VALUATION, RESIDENTIAUCOMMERCIAUINDUSTRIAUINSTITUTIONAL FOR 2004: $120,729.413 City of Elk River 2004 Annual Report 2004 COMMERCIAUI N DUSTRIAUI NSTITUTIONAL BUILDING PERMIT HIGHLIGHTS ADDRESS 13880 HWY 10 13422 Business Ctr. Dr. 17155 Quincy St 510 Freeport Ave I 1080 Industrial Cir. 15970 Jarvis St. 18100 Zane St. PROJECT VALUATION $15,900,000 $1, I 00,000 $7,824,000 $5 14,000 $580,000 $530,000 $680,000 Jail Addition Orluck Industries Pullman Place R & D Sales Gradient Technology Majestic Masonry Strip mall containing Anytime Fitness, UPS Store, Aveda Salon COMMERCIAUINSTITUTIONAL VALUATIONS 1994 - 2004 $5,000,000 $45,000,000 $35,000,000 $25,000,000 $1 5,000,000 94 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 TOTAL RESIDENTIAL DWELLING UNITS BUILT 1994 - 2004 400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 o .SINGLE FAMILY B MULTI-FAMILY City of Elk River 2004 Annual Report DEPARTMENT STAFF NAME TITLE START DATE Stephen Rohlf Building & Environmental Administrator January 2, 1985 Terry Zajac Senior Building Inspector October 26, 1988 Dennis Anderson Plumbing & Mechanical Inspector August I, 1994 Robert Ruprecht Building Inspector March 15, 1999 Lisa Wolfe Building Permit Technician May I, 2000 Jennifer Harmer Building Permit Technician October 15, 200 I Douglas Wellner Building Inspector April 22, 2002 Rebecca Haug Environmental Assistant August 13, 2002 Dave Hetrick Building Inspector February 17, 2004 Nancy Anderson Permit Technician December 17, 2003 William Bandar Building Inspector June I 0, 2004 City of Elk River 2004 Annual Report 2005 GOALS & PROJECTS BUILDING ACTIVITIES Goal: Promote public safety and service · Set a preferred level of service for the issuance of building permits and conducting building inspections and provide the resources to meet it. Staff recommends the following average target service level: " 2 days for scheduling an inspection (call on a Monday and get an inspection by Wednesday) " 5 working days after the application is complete for the issuance of a home improvement permit " 7 working days after the application is complete for the issuance of a single- family, twin home or town home permit " 7 working days for the first response on an apartment, commercial, institutional or industrial permit application · Provide incentives for certification of department staff · Continue staff involvement in state and national code organizations ENVIRONMENTAL Goal: Enhance the city's natural environment · Create a wetland buffer ordinance · Continue Oak Wilt program · Increase participation in city's curbside recycling program · Create a storm water ordinance LAKE ORONO Goal: Cooperate with Lake Orono Water Quality Task Force to maintain and improve the water quality and recreational value of the lake · Continue eradication of Curly leaf Pondweed from Lake Orono · Actively pursue remediation of fecal coliform contamination upriver · Continue fish stocking in lake Orono · Pursue goose reduction program as needed ENERGY CITY Goal: Promote Elk River as Energy City · Assist in the building and promotion of Energy House III · Encourage energy related businesses to locate in Elk River HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION Goal: Enhance the image of the city and awareness of its heritage and cultural resources · Conduct archaeological excavation with public participation · Explore establishing Historic Preservation Overlay Districts