HomeMy WebLinkAboutCEC Agenda Packet 2.02.26 FINALCITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS
Community Engagement Commission Work Session
City Hall
2077 West Larpenteur Avenue
AGENDA
February 2, 2026 at 6:30 P.M.
A. CALL TO ORDER:
B. ROLL CALL:
Julie Ebbesen____ Denise King____ Sarah Caflisch____ Emily Schmall____ Emmett
Fischer____
STAFF PRESENT:
Elke Johnson___
COUNCIL LIAISON:
Paula Mielke____
OTHERS PRESENT:
Jim Wassenberg___ Ainsley Brown___
C. AGENDA
1. Rebranding of Community Engagement Commission
D. ADJOURNMENT:
Next Regular Meeting is on Monday, February 23 at 6:30 PM
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REQUEST FOR ACTION
City of Falcon Heights, Minnesota __________________________
Item Rebranding of Community Engagement Commission
Description
The Community Engagement Commission received direction from the City Council
to rethink its mission and goals. In response, commissioners planned a work session
to review similar communities' and cities’ commissions and advisory boards as well
as discuss holding a community survey and listening sessions.
New Hope Citizen Advisory Commission
• The New Hope Citizen Advisory Commission (CAC) consists of 5 to 15
members who serve two-year terms.
• The City Council relies upon the commission to discuss, study, and make
recommendations on a wide range of issues.
• In addition to issues assigned by the City Council, the Citizen Advisory
Commission is also free to study any subject it believes is important to the
community.
• The CAC also acts as a community resource by helping to educate and inform
residents about the city of New Hope's activities.
New Brighton Equity Commission
This Commission advises the Council on matters concerning diversity, equity, and
inclusion and will focus on city policy conversations and governance decisions with
equity in mind.
Equity is defined as ensuring everyone has a fair chance to succeed by removing
barriers and expanding access to opportunities, resources, and support.
Vadnais Heights Community Engagement Commission (Meets on “as needed” basis)
The goals of the Community Engagement Committee were to define where there
might be gaps in current communication and engagement efforts, and to bring
recommendations to Council on how to identify and eliminate gaps in
communication and ensure the entire community has the opportunity to engage with
the City.
• Recommendation:
https://www.cityvadnaisheights.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/6554?f
ileID=5326
Meeting Date February 2, 2026
Agenda Item C1 – Rebranding of Community
Engagement Commission
Attachment See Below
Submitted By Elke Johnson, Administrative &
Communications Coordinator
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Crystal – Inclusion and Diversity Commission
This seven-member commission promotes and nurtures a safe and welcoming
community; is dedicated to fighting discrimination and civil rights violations by
government, businesses and other institutions doing business in the City of Crystal;
and advises and makes recommendations to the city council in matters relating to
outreach, equality and civil rights.
St. Anthony Park Community Council (District 12)
Mission
The St. Anthony Park Community Council is where residents and businesses come together
on vital neighborhood interests that enhance the quality of life, strengthen the character and
vitality of the community, and ensure the effectiveness of government.
Core Values
• Welcoming – all are welcome regardless of any classification or self-identity
• Engagement – all we do is achieved by being and working together
• Community-led – our focus is on the vitality and health of the community
and on issues identified and led by the community
• Partnerships –the issues we face require partnerships and each entity has
something to offer and is a part of the answer
• Respect – for diversity of opinion, experience, and dialogue processes for
reaching agreement
St. Anthony Park Community Council Equity Committee (Unsure if Active)
2024 Equity Committee Goals
• Goal #1
Foster coalition building to meet community needs within the district and
across districts.
How might we do this?
• Quarterly Community Conversations – host meetings or events that
connect community organizations with residents that can benefit from
their work or expertise.
• Continue to partner with Brightside Produce to encourage community
produce subscription and connect neighbors in need with pay-what-
you-can options.
• Continued partnerships with the Community Garden delivering
produce to the Seal Hi-Rise
• Community Meals and Festivals
• Support creative, approachable public events that bring awareness of
diversity, equity, and advocacy opportunities in the community.
• Goal #2
• Actively recruit and broaden diversity on the Equity Committee so that we’re
more representative of the neighborhood.
How might we do this?
• Make meetings more accessible.
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• Make meetings more desirable to attend (open agendas and
discussions, community meals before/after)
• Quarterly Community Conversations
• Conduct diversity, equity, and inclusion training among all SAPCC
• https://sapcc.org/equity-committee/
• https://sapcc.org/get-engaged/
Falcon Families for Equity and Justice (Falcon Heights Elementary)
Our Mission
Falcon Families for Equity and Justice (FFEJ) is a group of caregivers committed to learning,
growing, and working in solidarity together.
Our mission statement is a work-in-progress and will change and evolve as our
group learns and grows.
Our Goals
• Provide a safe and brave space for community members to share their
experiences and concerns surrounding racism, discrimination, inequity,
exclusion, and injustice.
• Sponsor events to build a relational community, bring awareness to equity
and promote active engagement.
• Provide educational opportunities for our caregivers, teachers, staff, and
students by hosting opportunities for learning about antiracism, equity and
justice.
• Evaluate concerns related to inclusion, equity, discrimination, and racism in
our school and school district; and advocate for any needed changes.
• Provide volunteer opportunities for students, families, teachers, and staff to
extend our services and build a more critically conscious community.
Our Committees
• Community Action: Sponsor community events that bring awareness to
equity and antiracism. This allows for community building, awareness, and
activism.
• Education: Help provide opportunities to learn more as parents, staff,
teachers, and students about antiracism and equity. This group will plan
various learning opportunities such as: book studies, bringing in speakers,
hosting workshops, movie screenings, media circles, etc.
• Volunteer Service: Provide opportunities for students, families, teachers, and
staff to extend our service to the community. These opportunities will work
towards providing opportunities with a social justice lens.
• Outreach and Communication: Responding to emails and requests, updating
the website and Facebook page, sharing updates with the PTA and school
board, and collaborating and building connections with people in the district
and community.
• https://falconfamiliesforequityandjustice.wordpress.com/
St. Paul District 10 Council
District 10 is one of Saint Paul’s 17 neighborhood community councils. We represent
the Como Park neighborhood, bounded generally by Snelling to the west, Larpenteur
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to the north, Dale to the east, and the rail lines south of Energy Park Drive to the
south (map). The District 10 Como Community Council is a non-profit organization
governed by a Board of Directors elected by members of the community.
• Mission Statement
We connect and empower each other, creating a compassionate community,
courageously addressing injustices of the past and present, and forging a bold
and inclusive future.
• Vision Statement
A vibrant, diverse, affordable neighborhood filled with a spirit of kindness
and belonging.
• How We Operate
• The Como Community Council is not part of City government. We are
not part of any political party. We are an independent, nonprofit
organization. We are accountable to our neighbors, and run by a 17-
member board of volunteers elected by our neighbors.
• We go out of our way to be more inclusive. That means we are
constantly expanding which issues (and whose issues) become
priorities. When we do things right, we reflect the desires of the full
richness of our community: renters, homeowners, businesses, local
institutions, and neighbors regardless of how they identify themselves,
how old they are, how they get around, or how deep their roots are in
Como or in Saint Paul.
• https://district10comopark.org/events/
City of Little Canada New Community Ambassador Program
The City of Little Canada is launching a Community Ambassador Program to help
strengthen community connections. Community Ambassadors help support
community connections within Little Canada. These individuals volunteer within the
community, receive and share community news, participate in city initiatives, and
help connect our neighbors and community members. Community Ambassadors
also serve as community members who can help generate ideas to expand
community engagement and involvement for all.
Responsibilities of a Community Ambassador include:
• Attending Quarterly Community Ambassador Meetings
• Receive Information
• Attend Community Engagement Events if able
• Volunteer
• Voice Your Opinion
• http://www.ci.little-canada.mn.us/m/newsflash/home/detail/577
Northfield Art Program
In Northfield, we celebrate the people, stories, and expressions that make Northfield
unique. We are dedicated to fostering a culture where creativity thrives. From public
art and performances to exhibitions and community events, we support artists and
innovators who strengthen our local economy, enrich our quality of life and create a
place where people want to be.
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Explore, enjoy, and be inspired by the arts in Northfield—where imagination and
community come together.
• https://www.northfieldmn.gov/1761/Art
In 2016 and 2017, following the death of Philando Castile, the City Council created a
Falcon Heights Inclusion and Policing Task Force. While the Task Force Final report
includes recommendations for community-based policing, it also highlights
recommendations for inclusion and provides a summary of community
conversations.
• In 2018, a Community Survey was conducted:
https://www.falconheights.org/home/showpublisheddocument/858/63712
1868132100000
• Final Recommendations on Policing and Inclusion and the Community
Conversation summaries:
https://www.falconheights.org/home/showpublisheddocument/858/63712
1868132100000
City’s response to Sept. 11, 2001, see p. 5
• https://citizensleague.org/wpcontent/uploads/2017/07/MNJournalOct2002
.pdf
• https://news.minnesota.publicradio.org/features/2003/06/20_helmsm_ridg
e/
Budget
Impact
N/A
Attachment
(s)
• Resolution 26-12 Affirming Community Values Summarizing City Actions
Related to Immigration Enforcement
• 2025 City Council Goal Setting Report
• 2018 Community Survey
Action(s)
Requested
Staff recommends that commissioners discuss a new direction/mission and goals for
the Community Engagement Commission
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CITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS
COUNCIL RESOLUTION
January 28,2026
No. 26-XX ?$-\L
A RESOLUTION AFFIRMING COMMUNITY VALUES AND CITY ACTION
RELATED TO IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT AND RESPONSIBLE
STEWARDSHIP OF CITY RESOURCES
WHEREAS, the City of Falcon Heights is committed to serving all residents and visitors with
dignity, respect, and fairness, and to fostering a safe, welcoming, and inclusive community; and
WHEREAS, as of 2023, the U.S. Census Bureau identifies that approximately 17.6% of the
resident population of the City of Falcon Heights consisted of foreign-bom individuals and each
of these individuals brings a unique perspective to our community; and
WHEREAS, the City operates its programs and services in compliance with all applicable
federal and state laws, including 8 U.S.C. $ 1373, while exercising only the authority granted to
it under state and local law; and
WHEREAS, in August2020, the City Council adopted an amendment to the City's
Administrative Manual, Section I: Standards Concerning Communication and Enforcement of
Immigration Laws, clariffing that the City does not operate its programs for the purpose of
enforcing federal immigration laws; and
WHEREAS, on February 5,2025, the City Council reviewed the City's existing policies related
to immigration enforcement and the use of City resources, and on February 10,2025, the City
issued a public statement affirming its commitment to the safety and well-being of all
community members; and
WHEREAS, on May 14,2025, the City Council adopted its2025 Goal Setting Process Report.
One of the ongoing goals in that report is for the City to continue to explore options to enhance
community within Falcon Heights for the purpose of reducing polarization locally through
cultivating a caring community and strengthening community connections; and
WHEREAS, on December 5, 2025, in response to the attempt to end the temporary protected
status by the federal government, the City issued a statement of support for its Somali and Karen
residents, recognizing the importance of belonging, safety, and community trust, and the City's
commitment to nondiscrimination based on race or immigration status; and
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WHEREAS, on January 12,2026, the City issued a statement in its weekly newsletter
remembering Renee Good, recognizing the fear, anxiety, and grief of residents caused by recent
unprecedented immigration enforcement operations; and
WHEREAS, on January 26,2026 the City issued a statement in our weekly newsletter
remembering Alex Pretti, and provided a list of community resources of ways residents can help
their neighbors; and
WHEREAS, the City continues to connect residents to available immigration resources through
the City's newsletter and website, and reaffirming the City's commitment to the safety, well-
being and trust ofall residents, neighbors, and visitors; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has discussed and invited public engagement, and will continue to
do so, on how to approach the potential use of City property for federal immigration enforcement
staging, including City parks and other City-owned facilities, and the importance of clear
communication with staff, the public, and law enforcement partners regarding permissible uses
of City property; and
WHEREAS, the City values its partnerships with state and federal law enforcement agencies in
matters involving criminal activity and public safety, while adhering to the City's limited
authority to enforce state and local laws in a nondiscriminatory manner; and
WHEREAS, the City Council seeks to reduce community fear and confusion, and restore
community trust in the City's commitment to public safety and welfare for all individuals,
regardless of immigration status, by clearly reaffirming the City's position regarding the
stewardship of public resources, including City property.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Falcon Heights,
Minnesota:
l. The City Council affirms that the City of Falcon Heights does not participate in or carry
out civil immigration enforcement and does not operate its programs or services for the
purpose of enforcing federal immigration laws.
2. Falcon Heights is committed to stewarding its resources for the benefit of the public as a
whole in accordance with state public purpose expenditures law. City-owned property,
including but not limited to parks, buildings and parking lots, facilities, personnel, or
resources may not be used for the pulpose of mobilizing, staging, preparing, or deploying
vehicles, equipment, materials, or personnel for the purpose of enforcing federal
immigration law.
3. Nothing in this resolution limits the City's authority or obligation to enforce state and
local laws in a nondiscriminatory manner, or to respond to criminal activity or public
safety emergencies within the City.
4. The City Council affirms its commitment to the equal treatment of all residents and
visitors in the provision of City services and access to City facilities, regardless of
immigration status or national origin.
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5. The City Council directs staff to continue reviewing existing policies and ordinances
related to the use of City resources, to return with any recommended updates, and to
provide opportunities for further community engagement..
Moved by: Y\o3en Approved
C.
GUSTAFSON
MAY
MIELKE
MOGEN
WASSENBERG
5 In Favor Attested by:
Against_c Administrator
9
2025 Goal Setting Process Report
April 28, 2025
City of Falcon Heights,
Minnesota
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Consultants
Falcon Heights Officials
Mayor Randy Gustafson
Councilmember Melanie Leehy
Councilmember Eric Meyer
Councilmember Paula Mielke
Councilmember Jim Wassenberg
City Administrator Jack Linehan
Bart Fischer, DDA HR, Inc.
Liza Donabauer, DDA HR, Inc.
Process
The City of Falcon Heights undertook a goal setting process in March of 2025. The process included the
consultant having individual meetings with the Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator as well as a
facilitated group session on Tuesday, March 4th. The session included:
A fun interactive kick off activity.
Presentations by the Mayor, Council, and City Administrator regarding their priorities and recent
accomplishments.
Discussion on and reaction to the priorities, goals, and strategies that came forward from the
individual meetings with Consultant Bart Fischer, and presentations.
Presentation of this summary report on the discussion and actionable steps to move the priorities,
goals, and strategies forward.
This report summarizes the discussions from the individual meetings and facilitated session. It is
intended to be a working document that is fluid as it elicits continued discussion on the priorities, goals,
strategies, projects, and action steps for Falcon Heights.
2025 Goal Setting Process
Pictured left to right: Mayor Randy Gustafson, City Administrator Jack
Linehan, Councilmember Paula Mielke, Councilmember Melanie Leehy,
Councilmember Eric Meyer, Councilmember Jim Wassenberg
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2025 Goal Setting Process
Priorities/Goals/Strategies/Action Steps
The following represents the priorities, goals, strategies, and action steps that came out of the group
discussion during the goal setting session. This list is meant to be fluid and adaptable. It is
recommended that the Falcon Heights Team regularly discuss target timelines and lead
people/persons for each priority, goal, strategy, and action step. The following are listed in no particular
order of importance.
Explore Opportunities to Provide Value Added Services for Residents
(Lead: City Administrator. Target Date: End of Quarter 3, 2025)
Some service areas to consider are:
Communications
Plowing early and often
Quality street sweeping
A more accessible staff
Outsource Falcon Heights’ Public Works service
Purpose: To provide excellent service in the core service areas and in how those services are delivered.
Continue to collaborate with St. Anthony Village (SAV) to ensure a
smooth and transparent transition to policing services provided by the
SAV Police Department (SAPD)
(Lead: Council and staff from both communities and the SAPD. Target Date: Ongoing)
Purpose: To provide excellent policing service and ensure the FH community are engaged in the
successful transition of this vital public safety service.
Engage the Community via Communication Channels
Use Facebook and other official City platforms to share information and invite open feedback
from residents about policing services and the transition process.
Receive Regular Updates from SAPD Leadership
Request the SAPD Chief or designated representative to attend City Council meetings regularly
and present an annual report that includes measurable data and progress on the transition.
Host Community Engagement Events
Organize “Coffee with a Cop” and similar informal gatherings to build relationships between
residents and officers. Share outcomes and community feedback with the City Council.
Hold Public Listening Sessions
Schedule listening sessions where community members can ask questions, share concerns,
and provide input about policing services and public safety priorities.
Ensure SAPD Presence at Community Functions
Invite an SAPD officer or representative (not limited to the Chief) to participate in community
events, including the State Fair Task Force and various commission meetings.
Support the Role of the Community Engagement Officer
Collaborate with SAPD to identify and promote opportunities for the Community Engagement
Officer to interact with residents, once the position is in place.12
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2025 Goal Setting Process
Support the Enhancement and Development of City/Community
Facilities
(Lead: City Administrator, City Engineer, Public Works Director. Target Date: End of 2025)
Complete Key Park Improvement Projects
Finalize the planned upgrades at Community Park.
Continue updates and improvements at Curtiss Field, Grove Park, and the Falcon Heights
Elementary outdoor facilities, which are utilized as public park space.
Develop a Comprehensive Parks and Facilities Master Plan
Hire a consultant to lead the creation of a citywide Master Plan that identifies priority projects,
balances community wants vs. needs, and aligns funding sources with specific initiatives.
Incorporate community input to determine desired services and amenities.
Establish a framework to measure community need and demand.
Expand Access and Amenities Across the City
Explore the addition of pocket park amenities in neighborhoods with limited access to current
park space.
Improve and enhance walkability and pedestrian safety where feasible, especially in high-traffic
or under-served areas.
Improve Pedestrian Safety through Targeted Infrastructure
Partner with Ramsey County to evaluate and implement traffic-calming measures, including
reduced speed limits, pedestrian crossings, or bump-outs at the following intersections:
Hamline & Hoyt
Hoyt & Cleveland
Larpenteur & Fry
Larpenteur & Albert
Crawford & Arona
Falcon Crossing
Evaluate and Plan for Future Facility Use
Conduct a space study of underused or non-essential City spaces to explore opportunities for
reconfiguration or redevelopment.
Inventory all City-owned land and facilities to inform future investments and long-term planning.
Explore potential uses for the large lawn space in front of City Hall to serve evolving community
needs.
Purpose: To ensure continued momentum takes place on existing and planned projects.
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Explore funding opportunities related to City incurred costs due to the State Fair.
Explore funding sources and opportunities for street improvement and maintenance projects in an
effort to decrease the amount of street assessments or amount of property taxes spent on
infrastructure.
Prioritize the recommendations coming from the Environment Commission’s Energy Action Plan
and Climate Action Plan and seek funding sources to complete these actions.
Explore Additional and Creative Funding Options and Opportunities
for Projects and Initiatives
(Lead: City Administrator, Finance Director, Assistant Finance Director, Public Works Director, City
Engineer. Target Date: End of 2025)
(Lead: City Administrator, State Fair Task Force (SFTF), Council Liaison to the SFTF. Target Date: Start
of 2025 State Fair)
(Lead: Community Development Coordinator, GreenCorp Member and EC Council Liaison. Target
Date: End of 2025)
2025 Goal Setting Process
Purpose: To encourage City staff and Council to proactively identify funding mechanisms that
reduce reliance on the tax levy and special assessments, thereby lessening the financial burden on
community members.
Develop a Multi-Year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
(Lead: City Administrator, City Engineer, Finance Director, Public Works Director.
Target Date: End of 2025 Quarter 3)
Develop a multi-year road and long-term pavement management program.
Develop and enhance the multi-year Capital Improvement Plan.
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Continue to Explore Development and Re-Development Opportunities
(Lead: City Planner, City Administrator. Target Date: Ongoing)
Purpose: Determine how the City can assist with development and re-development.
Economic development opportunities
Former dry-cleaning business on Larpenteur - “Get Pressed”
Review existing plan as well as plan from U of M students/class
Re-engage with U of M liaison and assign a City liaison
Re-develop other areas and sites along the Larpenteur and Snelling corridors as opportunities
present themselves.
Business engagement and retention
Currently zoned B-1. Explore and identify new zoning
Explore potential to purchase the property
Clean up the property utilizing MPCA grants
Evaluate future re-development for the site
U of M Les Bolstad Golf Course
Work with the local business community to encourage them to acknowledge they are in Falcon
Heights and not St. Paul, Roseville, or other surrounding community.
Update ordinance language to reflect both the needs of the City and business community
2025 Goal Setting Process
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2025 Goal Setting Process
Falcon Heights Leadership to Continue to Improve on External
Communications to Engage Residents and Community Partners
(Lead: Communications Coordinator, City Administrator, Other Staff. Target Date:
Ongoing)
Purpose: To strengthen trust, transparency, and collaboration by enhancing the clarity, consistency, and
accessibility of information shared with residents and community partners.
Conduct a community survey on all City services. Benchmarking services such as policing, plowing,
use of public spaces, preferred communications, other? Enhancements to the City’s website.
Publish the multi-year CIP and Master Space Study information on the City’s website and via other
communication tools.
Explore electronic signage at City Hall.
(Lead: Administrative & Communications Coordinator, City Administrator. RFP underway. Target
Date for new website: Quarter 1, 2026)
Send push notifications and texts to city residents and business members. (e.g. public hearings, city
events, street improvement project updates/notifications, street sweeping, plowing.
Include an Economic Development column in the newsletter along with other City communications.
Also advertise open commercial spaces through these channels.
Communicate the Falcon Heights Story - why do residents choose to live here. This messaging can
help to instill community pride and market the Community.
Utilize a coordinated communications effort to continually tap into, engage, and involve the talent
and energy within the community.
Embrace and acknowledge differences as part of the community culture. Weave this
acknowledgement into the fabric of the community and as part of what the City of Falcon
Heights as an organization does and is.
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Support the Rental Community Within Falcon Heights
(Lead: City Administrator, City Planner, Administrative Services Director, Fire Marshal.
Target Date: End of Quarter 3, 2025)
Purpose: To ensure safe, and well-maintained rental housing by establishing ordinances that support
tenants, promote responsible property management, and reflect the needs of both renters and landlords in
the community.
Strengthen City Rental Ordinances.
Create/Enhance Rental Inspection & Licensing Program.
City of Lauderdale
Continue and Enhance Strong Partnerships With Key Stakeholders
(Lead: All Staff and Council. Target Date: Ongoing)
Minnesota State Fair
Collaborate with the State Fair to explore opportunities for keeping fairgrounds gates open more
regularly to improve neighborhood walkability and connectivity.
University of Minnesota
Officially thank the University for its support and contributions to Community Park.
Collaborate with the University to coordinate and market a list of U of M attractions located in Falcon
Heights, such as the Bell Museum, The Raptor Center, and the Dairy Store.
Engage through interaction on the Climate Action Plan.
Re-establish regular communication with the University’s designated liaison and appoint a
corresponding City liaison to ensure consistent and proactive collaboration.
Identify and engage residents who work at the University to serve as informal ambassadors and
strengthen community ties.
Create meaningful engagement opportunities for U of M students, such as volunteer initiatives,
community events, or internship programs.
Maintain regular communication and strategic alignment with the University’s Intergovernmental
Relations team to advance mutual goals.
Continue to partner on cost-effective shared services—such as street sweeping, snow plowing, and
other operational efficiencies—to maximize resources and benefit both communities.
City of St. Anthony Village
Continue to partner with SAV on the smooth transition of its policing services.
Actively work to strengthen and enhance the overall relationship with St. Anthony Village through
regular communication, shared goals, and mutual support.
Schools - Falcon Heights Elementary and Brimhall Elementary
Rebuild and maintain strong connections with area schools, especially as changes in leadership and
points of contact may have affected past interactions.
Attend District meetings.
Continue the partnership on communication and marketing of both City and School events.
County
Continue working with the County on projects and funding for those projects.
City of Roseville
Continue expanding the relationship for engineering services.
Explore new partnership opportunities, such as parks & recreation, to enhance community services.
City of St. Paul
Continue to develop and promote the partnership for fire and emergency medical services.
Explore approval of a new, longer-term contract for fire and emergency medical services.
2025 Goal Setting Process
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2025 Goal Setting Process
Enhance Internal Operations and Staff Professional Development
(Lead: City Administrator and City Council. Target Date: End of 2025)
Purpose: To improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and responsiveness of City operations by investing in
staff professional development, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and streamlining internal
processes to better serve the community.
Ensure that staff understands they are valued
Conduct a Comp & Class study and have a policy discussion around where Council is willing to
target salaries: top, mid, low range of comparables. Also have job descriptions updated as part
of this process.
Enhance onboarding and retention activities.
Increase and improve internal communications.
Upgrade timeclock and payroll systems and streamline other technology for better efficiency.
Update how records management and retention are accomplished.
Simplify the open enrollment process and develop a one-sheet Benefits Summary.
Review and improve HR and finance policies and processes to ensure efficiency and clarity.
Council & Commissions enhancementsContinue providing resources for Council members and Commissioners to attend relevant
training sessions.
Consider implementing a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) option to facilitate paperless packets.
Clarify and formalize position descriptions for Council members and Commissioners, outlining
their roles and responsibilities.
Formalize and expand the onboarding process for new Council members to ensure smooth
integration.
Offer per diems for Council members and Commissioners to support their involvement in City-
related activities.
Bring Commission Chairs together regularly to provide updates, discuss Council goals, and
determine ownership of projects and community events.
Celebrate and formally recognize the work and contributions of Commissioners and their
respective commissions.
Focus on cyber security/protection.
Hold formal and informal meetings and gatherings of staff and Council on a regular basis.
Create space for both Council and staff to share updates, thoughts, and feedback, encouraging
open dialogue and active listening.
Foster a team environment across the organization including between Council and staff.
Explore Organized Trash Collection
(Lead: City Administrator and City Council. Target Date: End of 2027)
Purpose: A long-term proposition to reduce emissions from haulers and reduce wear and tear on the
streets.
Check-List of items to be done:
Review State Statutes.
Talk to other communities that have successfully implemented organized trash collection.
Talk to existing haulers.
Inventory haulers and the percentage of the community they service.
Begin conversations with the public around how recycling pick-up, which is a single hauler, has
gone.
Work this through staff.
Schedule a future workshop to determine first/next steps.18
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2025 Goal Setting Process
Continue to Explore Options to Enhance Community Within Falcon
Heights
(Lead: All Staff and Council. Target Date: Ongoing)
Purpose: To reduce polarization locally by cultivating a caring community through the strengthening
of community connections.
Annual Ice Cream Social
Spring Together
Multi-Cultural Food Festival
Fall Festival
Explore co-hosting with various community partners Falcon Heights Nights at locations
throughout the City
Provide opportunities for teens and pre-teens to feel as though they are a valuable member of
the Community (i.e. youth camps)
Coordinate the Parks & Community Engagement Commissions to work together
How to connect the 11 Falcon Heights neighborhoods.
Promote Falcon Height’s multi-culturalism and diversity.
Seek to find common themes that draw people together such as knitting groups and musicians.
Look to complete and enhance walking paths to connect.
Identify who takes ownership of the various community events/activities:
Park & Rec programming for youth
There are quality competing programs through community ed, senior programming, and
surrounding cities.
Have the policy conversation around if Falcon Heights facilitates existing partner and
surrounding programs or create in-house programming with limited staff.
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2025 Goal Setting Process
The following chart represents the priorities, goals, strategies, and action steps that came out of the
group discussion during the session. This list is in no order of importance and is meant to be fluid and
adaptable. It is recommended that the Falcon Heights Team regularly discuss target timelines and lead
people/persons for each priority, goal, strategy, and action step
Priorities/Goals/Strategies/Action Steps
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All worked together well.
We have more in common than we have different.
A better understanding of operations.
Encouraged by everyone’s commitment to the City. We are forward thinking in how to improve
operations within the Community
All are onboard with how we can provide the best services to our residents while keeping funding
and expenses reasonable.
Excited! We have low hanging fruit we can tackle right away, which will make a big difference.
It was good to spend a chunk of time discussing these initiatives.
We are aligned on values and approach.
It was good to spend informal time together.
Summary/Conclusion
The following are the key takeaways of the discussion from the session participants:
The 2025 Falcon Heights Goal Setting Process allowed the City Council and City Administrator to
discuss priorities, goals, strategies, and action steps for Falcon Heights. The process allowed for
listening and better understanding of individual goals in an effort to collaborate and move forward
with a list of group strategies, priorities, goals, and action steps.
It is recommended that opportunities are created throughout the year for updates and continued
discussion by the Falcon Heights Team on the priorities, goals, strategies, and action steps as laid out
in this document. This will be vital in keeping the lines of communication open for collaboration,
understanding, the building of trusting relationships, and the continued momentum in maintaining
and creating a successful future for the community.
2025 Goal Setting Process
21
Produced by:
Mark Miazga, City Councilmember
Sack Thongvanh, City Administrator
2018 Falcon Heights
Community Survey
Overview of Falcon Heights Survey Data
22
COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018
Table of Contents
Executive Summary………………………………………………………………………………………………1
Methodology ....................................................................................................... …4
Survey Results by Question Type ........................................................................... 6
APPENDIX A: 2018 Community Survey................................................................... 24
23
COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018
Executive Summary
This report documents the findings and results of a city-wide survey commissioned by the
Falcon Heights City Council. The survey was sent out summer of 2018. In addition, web
links to the survey were provided in the weekly Falcon Heights Newsletter sent out between
August 24, 2018 and September 28, 2018. The City sent out 2,254 surveys and 439
completed it: 258 completed the paper version of the survey, and 181 completed the online
or web version of the survey.
The purpose of the survey is to create a baseline to conduct a comparative analysis of
services, amenities, and health of the community. The City intends to conduct a community
survey every two years. The data collected will assist the City Council and Staff to develop,
modify, or adjust business operations.
The vast majority of participants report that they have lived in Falcon Heights for numerous
years. Over 75% of participants reported having lived in the city for at least six years. Most
participants also plan to stay in the city for an extended period, as over 65% reported
planning to live in the city for at least seven years.
Participants overwhelmingly rate the quality of life as great or good in Falcon Heights. Over
93% reported the quality of life as good or better with 53% of participants reporting it as
excellent and 40% as good. Most participants reported at least one thing that made them
proud to live in the city. Proximity or closeness to services, work, other cities, and other
amenities along with a sense of a connected community and friendly neighbors ranked very
closely as the top two things about the city that make people proud.
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Participants were also asked about city and neighborhood resources and events. Familiarity
with a neighborhood liaison was identified as an area for city improvement with almost 60%
of participants being unaware of whether their block had a neighborhood liaison. Many
participants in the city had attended their neighborhood block party in the past year with
just under half reporting they had attended. Of all city-sponsored events in the past two
years, the neighborhood block party was also the most frequently attended followed by the
Ice Cream Social.
Participants report being relatively aware of how to contact neighbors with over 93%
reporting that they know the name and how to contact their next door neighbor and over
83% reporting that they know the name and how to contact the neighbor across the street
or hall. There was room for improvement in this area as only approximately 60% reported
knowing the name and how to contact a neighbor on the other side of the alley or block.
Public safety remains a concern for most participants filling out the survey. Automobile
break-ins, speeding, and burglary or theft were the top three issues identified as the most
significant public safety concern among participants. Level of patrolling appears to be an
issue among a substantial number of participants with approximately one-third reporting
the level of patrolling to be not enough, although 51% reported about the right amount.
Among those rating law enforcement services as Fair or Poor, approximately thirty people
also stated their rationale for Fair or Poor is not seeing as many patrols in their
neighborhood as in previous years.
Overall scores for specific city services were relatively high. Over 76% of participants rated
each of the six identified services as at least good. Fire Services ranked the highest with
over 96% of participants rating their satisfaction as at least good. Code Enforcement ranked
the lowest with over 76% of participants rating their satisfaction as at least good. The most
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COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018
cited opportunities for improvement among the six city service areas were in increased
police patrols or visibility, increased enforcement of crime during the State Fair, increased
enforcement of speeding violations, attention to potholes, specific issues related to streets,
inconsistent code enforcement, and issues related to cats. Participants were also asked
whether the city had too few, too many, or the right amount of a host of eleven options.
Participants think overall that the city has about the right amount of options with a need for
additional assisted living for seniors, trails, and bikeways.
Participants most frequently cited seeking outside funding as their preferred method for
addressing potential budget shortfalls. Raising taxes was cited as the next most preferred
method, and slightly fewer residents preferred a combination of seeking outside funding,
raising taxes, and cutting services. Participants also mentioned other specific ideas for
consideration with the top three being some version of financial compensation from the
State Fair, merging with another city, or sharing more services with other cities.
Participants were very thoughtful in listing ideas for improving the city throughout the
survey and particularly in listing ideas for improving inclusivity. The top four ideas for
improving inclusivity related to:
•finding ways to increase the amount of housing, particularly affordable housing,
•coming up with more ways to engage youth, hard to reach populations, renters,
lower-income residents, and others
•having more frequent city or neighborhood gatherings
•continuing to do what the city is already doing
Related to more frequent gatherings was the idea of having public events in different parts
of the city, outside, at the elementary school, etc. Numerous participants also alerted the
city to an interest in volunteering for community events and provided valuable insights into
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COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018
their style of engagement. Over 73% of participants also reported feeling at least somewhat
connected in the city with just under 17% feeling neither connected nor disconnected, and
only under 10% feeling somewhat disconnected or very disconnected.
An additional area of inquiry for the survey related to city condition and appearance, the
value of city services, and satisfaction with city leadership and staff. Over 90% of
participants rated the general condition and appearance of the city as good or better with
areas of improvement cited as medians on or near Snelling and Larpenteur Avenues and the
need for better aesthetics or flowers on public properties. Just under 78% of participants
rated the general value of city services as good or better with the primary area for
improvement cited as lowering taxes.
Just over 79% of participants rated their approval with city leadership (Mayor and City
Council) as good or better. The primary areas for improvement among those citing it as
Fair or Poor were in the handling of the Philando Castile shooting, the perception of taxes
being too high, and City Leadership. Just under 83% of participants rated their approval
with city staff as good or better. The primary area for improvement among those citing it
as Fair or Poor was in need for more timely communication in response to inquiries.
Methodology
Population
Residents of Falcon Heights were sent this survey to their home address identified by city
staff. In addition, the survey was advertised through city social media outlets, summer 2018
city newsletter, word-of-mouth, council and commission meetings, the city website, and
through weekly references in the city’s Friday weekly newsletter e-mails. Throughout
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COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018
outreach, residents were encouraged to contact city staff for a mailed version of the survey
or an online link to the survey. Two thousand two hundred fifty-four surveys were mailed
to city residents. Four hundred thirty-nine surveys were completed.
Survey Design
The Falcon Heights Community Survey (Appendix A) was created by city leadership and staff
with primary direction from the City Administrator and a City Councilmember who are both
trained in survey research. Council members and city staff provided questions for the
survey which were prioritized, edited, and reviewed several times. The survey was pre-tested
to ensure online flow.
Question Review Process
The 2018 Community Survey began with the City Council submitting five to six questions to
the Question Review Committee consisting of a City Council Member and the City
Administrator. After receiving proposed questions, the Committee organized the questions
based on themes. A draft survey was compiled and reviewed during the June 6th, 2018 City
Council Workshop. Once agreed upon, the survey was finalized and ready for distribution.
Data Collection
The survey was mailed to 2,254 city residents and advertising for the survey was also
included in weekly city e-mail newsletters sent between August 24, 2018, and September 28,
2018. An online link was provided to the survey in those e-mails. The survey was also
advertised through many efforts previously articulated.
The number of responses to each of the survey question varied. Some respondents did not
complete all questions or simply left questions blank. The survey was restricted to one
survey per device; in addition, the survey was mailed to each address property within the
City.
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COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018
Total Surveys Returned
Participants completed 439 surveys with 258 completing the mailed or paper version of the
survey and 181 completing the online or web version of the survey. Both surveys were
identical but simply used different methods to reach more households and participants.
Data Privacy
Throughout data collection, respondents’ identity was confidential.
Survey Results by Question Type
1)Years living in Falcon Heights, length of time expecting to live
in Falcon Heights, and movement into Falcon Heights
Participants were initially asked the following question: “Approximately how many years
have you lived in Falcon Heights?” Under 35% reported having lived in the city for 26 plus
years. Under 15% reported having lived here for 3-5 years, and over 11% reported having
lived here for 6-10 years. Approximately 10% each reported having lived in the city for
either 16-20 years or 21-25 years. Approximately 9% each reported having lived in the city
for either 0-2 years or 11-15 years.
Participants were next asked “As things stand now, how long in the future do you expect to
live in Falcon Heights?” Over 47% reported over 10 years, 18% reported 7-10 years,
approximately 15% each reported 2-6 years or Don’t Know, and only over 5% reported less
than 2 years.
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COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018
Participants were later asked, “Did you move to Falcon Heights from a different county or
state in the past year?” Just under 92% answered no, only under 7% answered yes, and
only over 1% refused to answer the question.
2) Impressions of living in Falcon Heights and quality of life
Participants were next asked a series of three questions relating to the quality of life in
Falcon Heights. The first of the three questions asked: “How would you rate the quality of
life in Falcon Heights?” Over 93% reported the quality of life as Good or Excellent. Over
53% reported the quality of life as excellent, just over 40% reported it as good, 6% reported
it as fair, and only over one half of one percent reported the quality of life as poor. Of
those who reported fair or poor, five people reported their explanation as being some
version of high taxes, four reported problems with parking during the State Fair, and three
reported issues with city management.
93%
6%1%
Quality of Life Rating
Excellent or Good
Fair
Poor
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The second question in this series asked: “What makes you proud to live in Falcon Heights?”
This was one of two entirely open-ended questions, and three or more resident’s referenced
themes identified in the bullet points below. The themes cited by the largest number of
residents were as follows: Proximity to locations, services, etc., sense of a connected
community and friendly neighbors, and well-kept or clean neighborhoods and homes.
The most often cited themes are below:
• Proximity to locations, services, work, etc
• Connected community and friendly neighbors
• Well-kept or clean neighborhoods and homes
• Sense of being a small community or small town feel or character
• Good, transparent, responsive, or thoughtful government
• Good schools
37%
35%
15%
13%
What makes you proud to live in Falcon
Heights?
Proximity to locations, services and
work
Connected community and friendly
neighbors
Well-kept or clean neighborhood
and homes
Sense of community or small town
feel
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COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018
•Low crime or safe community
•Quiet neighborhoods or city
The third question in this series asked: “What three things do you like most about living in
Falcon Heights?” The percentages here do not add up to 100% since each participant was
allowed to select up to three total items. Almost 81% reported a convenient overall
location. Over 35% reported the quiet and peaceful nature of the city. Under 27% reported
the city’s closeness to their work. Just under 19% reported schools. An equal number
(13.50%) reported closeness to family and parks, trails, and/or open spaces and just under
11% reported shopping. To a large extent, these responses mirrored those of the previous
question.
Illustrative quotes related to these findings include the following:
•“The quality of life is terrific.”
•“I really like the beautiful neighborhoods and homes.”
•“It’s close to everything we need.”
•“Being close to the university and the Bell Museum.”
•“The community is very welcoming and friendly.”
•“The sense of community.”
•“Caring neighborhoods.”
•“It feels like a small town.”
•“Neighbors care about each other and greet each other.”
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COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018
3) Familiarity with neighborhood and city resources and events
Participants were next asked, “Does your block have a neighborhood liaison?” Over 59%
reported don’t know, over 27% reported yes, and only over 13% reported no. There is a
clear opportunity here for the city to better improve awareness of the neighborhood liaison.
Participants were next asked, “Did you attend a neighborhood block party/event in the past
year?” Over 56% reported no and under 44% reported yes.
Participants were next asked, “Did you attend/participate in any of these city-sponsored
events in the past two years?” A list of events was provided and since participants were
allowed to select more than one the total does not equal 100%. The four most frequently
attended city-sponsored events were the Minnesota Night to Unite, Ice Cream Social, City
Council Meeting, and Community Conversation (Task Force on Inclusion and Policing). The
breakdown was as follows:
Minnesota Night to Unite/National Night Out: 53.61%
Ice Cream Social: 36.12%
City Council Meeting: 27.00%
Community Conversation (Task Force on Inclusion and Policing): 26.24%
City Commission Meeting (Environment, Planning, Community Engagement, or Parks):
17.87%
Parks and Recreation Programs: 15.97%
Sustainability Events: 7.60%
Spring Together: 6.84%
Human Rights Day: 6.84%
Winterfest: 4.94%
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COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018
5K Fun run: 3.42%
Fall Fest: 3.04%
Participants were next asked, “Do you know the name and how to contact the following
neighbors?” Response options included next-door neighbor, the neighbor across the street
or hall, and neighbor on the other side of the alley or block. Over 93% reported that they
knew the name and how to contact their next door neighbor and over 83% reported that
they knew the name and how to contact the neighbor across the street or hall. Over 60%
reported that they knew the name and how to contact a neighbor on the other side of the
alley or block with only over 9% reported that this response option did not applicable to
their situation.
4)Communication regarding government activities
Participants were next asked the following question: “What are your top two ways to
receive information about Falcon Heights government activities?” Since this question also
allowed participants to provide more than one response, the totals do not equal 100%.
The top three ways that participants prefer to receive information are through e-mail, the
twice a year mailed newsletters, and a local newspaper such as the Park Bugle or Roseville
Review. The breakdown was as follows:
E-mail: 57.40%
Twice a year mailed newsletters: 47.61%
Local newspaper: 37.59%
City website: 21.18%
Word of mouth: 15.03%
Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, etc.): 12.98%
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COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018
Nextdoor: 9.11%
Star Tribune: 3.87%
Pioneer Press: 2.05%
Cable television: 1.59%
5)Public Safety concerns
Participants were next asked, “Please tell me which one of the following you consider to be
the greatest public safety concern in Falcon Heights?” No one issue, in particular, rose to
the top with automobile break-ins cited by just under 21%, speeding by only under 18%,
None or nothing by only over 17%, and burglary or theft by only under 15%. The
breakdown was as follows:
Automobile break-ins: 20.98%
Speeding: 17.95%
None: 17.02%
Burglary or theft: 14.92%
Other: 7.46%
Don’t Know/Refused: 6.29%
All equally: 5.83%
Youth Crime and/or Vandalism: 3.96%
Drugs and/or alcohol: 2.10%
Violent Crime: 1.86%
Identity Theft: 1.17%
Shoplifting or Check Fraud: 0.47%
Of those who reported Other, the most frequently cited concern was some version of
pedestrian safety. Sixteen participants mentioned this theme.. Four cited speeding
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COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018
including speeding during the State Fair, four cited other driving violations including red
light running and texting while driving, three cited pedestrian safety in general, three cited
pedestrian issues related to sidewalks not shoveled on Larpenteur Ave, and two cited
crossing Larpenteur and Snelling. The next most frequently cited concerns were break-ins
including auto break-ins and a sense of declining police service each cited by four
participants.
Participants were next asked, “How would you rate the amount of patrolling the Ramsey
County Sheriff’s Department does in your neighborhood?” Over 51% reported about the
right amount, and just over 32% reported not enough. Only over 14% reported Don’t Know
or Refused and just over 2% reported too much.
6) Satisfaction with city services, housing availability, parks, trails,
open spaces, and service and retail establishments
Participants were next asked, “For each of the following, please indicate whether you would
rate the quality of the service as Excellent, Good, Fair, or Poor?” Satisfaction with the listed
services was relatively high with five of the six services being reported as good or excellent
by at least 81% of participants. Code enforcement has the most opportunity for
improvement with over 76% of participants reporting their satisfaction as good or excellent.
Police services have the next highest opportunity for improvement with over 79% of
participants reporting their satisfaction as good or excellent. The breakdown by service area
was as follows:
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COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018
The most prevalent themes identified by those rating specific areas as fair or poor were as
follows:
Police Services:
• Police presence is limited, need more policing.
• Need more enforcement of parking laws during the State Fair or more police
presence.
Fire Services (No themes emerged as no similar comments were provided by more than
one participant)
Street Maintenance:
• More attention to potholes
• Streets need more attention for specific issues
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Code Enforcement
Animal Control
Snowplowing
Street Maintenance
Fire Services
Police Services
City Services
Excellent Good Fair Poor
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COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018
Snowplowing:
• Issues with sidewalk maintenance and snow removal on Larpenteur Avenue including
safety, snow emergency policy, children walking in the streets, and enforcement of
snowplowing ordinance
• Overall quality
Animal Control:
• Cat issues
• Dog issues including frequent barking
Code Enforcement:
• Trash can or garbage codes need more enforcement
• Enforcement is inconsistent
Participants were next asked “For each of the following, please indicate if you think Falcon
Heights currently has too many, too few or about the right amount. On eight of the eleven
options over 65% of participants reported that the city has the right amount. The highest
ranking area where participants thought the city had too few of something was in assisted
living for seniors cited by over 41% of participants and trails and bikeways cited by just
under 40% of participants. The breakdown was as follows:
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Service and Retail Establishments
Open Spaces
Assisted Living for Seniors
Affordable Owner-occupied
Codominiums
Affordable Housing
Housing and Amenities
Right Amount Too Many Too Few
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7) Preferences in facing financial challenges
Participants were next asked the following question: “The city has faced financial challenges
in the last 1-2 years and faces potential challenges in the future. In general, would you
prefer that the city meet these budget challenges by reducing or eliminating services, raising
taxes, seeking outside funding opportunities/partnerships, all of these, or something else?”
Participants were allowed to choose more than one response which is why response totals
do not equal 100%. Just under 61% of participants prefer seeking outside funding
opportunities and/or partnerships. Over 28% prefer raising taxes. Over 20% prefer the
combination of reducing or eliminating services, raising taxes, and seeking outside funding
opportunities and/or partnerships. Over 18% favor reducing or eliminating services and
under 18% reported something else with a request to explain option. Of those who
reported something else the most common suggestions were as follows:
• Some version of financial compensation for State Fair events
• Merge with another city such as Roseville, Lauderdale, or Saint Paul
• Find ways to share more services with other cities
• Less expensive police force
• Attract more business
8) Volunteer interest in any aspect of community engagement and
style of engagement
Participants were next asked the following question: “Would you be interested in
volunteering for any aspect of community engagement or community events?” Just over
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COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018
23% reported yes, over 40% reported no, and over 36% reported don’t know or refused.
Participants answering yes were provided contact information of city staff so that they could
be afforded the opportunity to further contribute to the city.
Participants were next asked, “What is your style of engagement that fits your personality?”
Participants were allowed to choose more than one response which is why the total does
not equal 100%. Just over 51% reported a combination of auditory, visual, and
experimental. Just over 31% reported visual such as reading or art with interaction. Just
over 25% reported auditory such as listening or conversation. Over 13% reported
experimental such as hands-on experimentation or practice. Over 2% reported other with a
please specify option.
9) Curbside collection program for compostable waste
Participants were next asked the following question: “Do you support or oppose a curbside
collection program for compostable waste for an additional fee?” Over 52% of participants
supported such a program, 29% opposed such a program, and just under 19% neither
supported nor opposed such a program. The breakdown was as follows:
Strongly Support,
29.93%
Somewhat Support,
22.51%
Neither Support nor
Oppose,
18.56%
Somwwhat Oppose, 10.67%
Strongly Oppose,
18.33%
Curbside Collection for Compostable Waste
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10) Re-visiting organized trash collection for the city
Participants were next asked the following question: “Do you support or oppose re-visiting
organized trash collection for the city? (City selecting one trash hauler)?” Over 42% of
participants supported re-visiting this issue, just under 30% opposed re-visiting it, and over
18% need more details before forming an opinion. Only over 7% reported neither
supporting nor opposing re-visiting the issue, and only over 2% reported they don’t know
or refused. The breakdown was as follows:
Strongly support: 29.03%
Somewhat support: 13.13%
Neither support nor oppose: 7.14%
Need more details before forming an opinion: 18.43%
Somewhat oppose: 5.99%
Strongly oppose: 23.96%
Don’t Know/Refused: 2.30%
11) Condition and appearance of the city and general value of
city services
Participants were next asked the following question: “How would you rate the general
condition and appearance of Falcon Heights?” Over 90% of participants rated the general
condition and appearance as good or better. The breakdown was as follows:
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COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018
Of those who reported Fair or Poor, the most frequently cited themes were:
1. The need to improve the condition of the medians on or near Snelling and
Larpenteur Avenues.
2. The need for more flowers or aesthetics along public properties.
3. Addressing panhandling.
4. Reducing the visibility of garbage or trash.
Participants were next asked the following question: “When you consider the property taxes
you pay and the quality of city services you receive, would you rate the general value of city
services as Excellent, Good, Fair, or Poor?” Only under 78% of participants rated the general
value as good or better. The breakdown was as follows:
Excellent: 18.16%
Good: 59.43%
Fair: 17.69%
Poor: 4.72%
37.12%
Excellent
53.13%
Good
8.35%
Fair
1.39%
Poor
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Condition and Appearance
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Of those who reported Fair or Poor, the most frequently cited themes were:
1.high taxes or high taxes specific to the value of city services,
2.expensive police services, and
3.snowplowing
12)Sense of connectedness and ideas for improving
inclusivity
Participants were next asked the following question: “Please rate your sense of feeling
connected in the City of Falcon Heights: Very connected, somewhat connected, neither
connected nor disconnected, somewhat disconnected, or very disconnected.” Over 73% of
participants reported feeling at least somewhat connected. Just under 10% reported feeling
some sense of being disconnected. Only under 17% reported neither a sense of
connectedness no disconnectedness. The breakdown was as follows:
Very connected: 19.53%
Somewhat connected: 53.65%
Neither connected nor disconnected: 16.94%
Somewhat disconnected: 7.29%
Very disconnected: 2.59%
Participants were next asked the following question: “What are some ways in which you
think the city could improve inclusivity?” Participants were not provided response options,
as the city is hoping to get additional ideas for improving inclusivity directly from the
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COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018
residents. Over 170 participants provided ideas. The breakdown of ideas and responses is
below:
•More housing
o Affordable housing
o Senior Housing
o Mixed Housing
•More efforts to reach youth, hard to reach people, renters, lower income
communities, etc.
•More frequent city or neighborhood gatherings:
•Keep doing what you’re doing
•Consider having more public events in different parts of city, outside, at the
elementary school etc.
•Improve city communication and/or advertising regarding city and neighborhood
events.
13)Satisfaction with city leadership and city staff
Participants were next asked the following question: “From what you know, do you approve
or disapprove of the job the Mayor and City Council are doing?” Participants were provided
a scale of Excellent, Good, Fair, or Poor. Over 79% of participants rated their approval as
good or better. The breakdown was as follows:
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Of those who reported Fair or Poor, the most frequently cited themes are broken down
below:
• Handling of the Philando Castile Shooting
• High Taxes
• Lack of Communication
• Need to improve Diversity and Inclusivity
Participants were next asked the following question: “From what you have heard or seen,
how would you rate the job performance of the Falcon Heights City Staff?” Participants
were provided a scale of Excellent, Good, Fair, or Poor. Just under 83% of participants rated
their approval as excellent or good. The breakdown was as follows:
Excellent or
Good
79%
Fair 14%
Poor
7%
City Leadership
Excellent and
Good
83%
Fair
13%
Poor
4%
Performance of City Staff
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COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018
Of those who reported Fair or Poor, areas of need of improvement or concerns would be
the lack of timely communication and city code enforcement.
• Lack of Timely Communication
• City Code Enforcement
Demographics
The remaining survey questions asked about participant demographics such as age groups
in a household, home ownership or rent status, age range, ethnicity, gender identification,
education, and income. These are standard demographic questions in surveys and helpful
in identifying themes and patterns in the community. They are provided here for resident
interest. No data is provided that could potentially identify any participants.
Age groups in household: “Please tell me how many people in each of the following
age groups live in your household?”
Adult 65 or over: None: 44.38%, One: 27.66%, Two: 27.66%, Three or more: 0.30%
Adults between 50-64: None: 48.63%, One: 26.03%, two: 25.0%, Three or more: 0.34%
Adults between 18-49: None: 32.74%, One: 25.98%, Two: 37.72%, three or more:
3.56%
School-age children and preschoolers: None: 56.18%, One: 15.14%, Two: 20.72%,
three or more: 7.97%
Home ownership or rental status: “Do you own or rent your present residence?”
Own: 91.24%
Rent: 6.91%
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COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018
Refused: 1.84%
Participant age range: “Which of the following describes your age range?”
Under 18: 0.00%
18-24: 0.71%
25-34: 8.71%
35-44: 13.18%
45-54: 20.00%
55-64: 19.06%
65+: 38.35%
Ethnicity: “Which of the following categories represents your ethnicity?”
Caucasian: 81.46%
African American: 1.41%
African African: 0.23%
Asian or Pacific Islander: 3.76%
Native American: 0.23%
Mixed Bi-Racial: 2.58%
Don’t Know: 1.17%
Refused: 9.15%
Gender Identification: “What is your gender identification?”
Female: 61.19%
Male: 36.19%
Other: 2.62%
Education: “What is the highest degree or level of school you have completed?”
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COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018
Some high school, no diploma: 0.00%
High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent: 2.56%
Some college credit but no degree: 5.13%
Trade/technical vocational training: 3.03%
Associate degree: 4.20%
Bachelor’s degree: 36.60%
Master’s degree: 28.67%
Professional degree: 6.29%
Doctorate degree: 13.52%
Income: “What was your total household income before taxes during the past 12
months?”
Under $15,000: 0.71%
Between $15,000 and $29,999: 2.82%
Between $30,000 and $49,999: 8.47%
Between $50,000 and $74,999: 11.29%
Between $75,000 and $99,999: 17.88%
Between $100,000 and $150,000: 19.29%
Over $150,000: 14.82%
Decline to answer: 24.71%
Page 25 of 34 48
The City of Falcon Heights wants your opinions and insights about city services. Please take 15-20 minutes
to complete this survey regarding services. Please keep in mind that these questions do not cover all
available topics in order to ensure that as many people take the survey as possible. All information
received from the survey is confidential and will be treated with the utmost professionalism. Your
answers will be put with a lot of other people’s answers so you can’t be identified in any way. If there are
any questions you don’t care to answer, please skip over them. If you have questions, please contact Sack
Thongvanh at (651)792-7611 or sack.thongvanh@falconheights.org.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
2018 Community Survey
1. Approximately how many years have you lived in Falcon Heights?
0-2
3-5
6-10
11-15
16-20
21-25
26+
Don't Know/Refused
2. As things stand now, how long in the future do you expect to live in Falcon
Heights?
Less than 2 years
2-6 Years
7 to 10 Years
Over 10 years
Don't Know/Refused
If you gave a ranking of "Poor" or "Fair", Please explain why you gave the rating.
3. How would you rate the quality of life in Falcon Heights?
Excellent
Good
Fair
Poor
Page 26 of 34 49
4. What makes you proud to live in Falcon Heights?
5. What three things do you like most about living in Falcon Heights? (Please
choose up to three)
Close to Family
Close to Work
Schools
Parks/Trails/Open Spaces
Shopping
Quiet and Peaceful
Convenient Overall Location
Neighborhood/Housing
Safe
Friendly People
Nothing
Don't Know/Refused
6. Did you move to Falcon Heights from a different county or state in the past
year?
Yes
No
Refused
7. Does your block have a neighborhood liaison?
Yes
No
Don't Know
8. Did you attend a neighborhood block party/event in the past year?
Yes
No
Page 27 of 34 50
9. Did you attend/participate in any of these city sponsored events in the past two
years? (Check all that apply)
Ice Cream Social
Spring Together
Winterfest
5K Fun Run
Sustainability Events
Human Rights Day
Fire Department Open House
City Council Meeting
City Commission Meeting (Environment,
Planning, Community Engagement, or Parks)
Parks and Recreation Programs
Community Conversation (Task Force on
Inclusion and Policing
Minnesota Night to Unite/National Night Out
Fall Fest
Yes No N/A
Next door
neighbor
Neighbor across
street/hall
Neighbor on the
other side of
alley/block
10. Do you know the name and how to contact the following neighbors?
11. What are your top two ways to receive information about Falcon Heights
government activities?
*
E-Mail
Local newspaper (ex. Roseville Review)
Twice a year mailed newsletters
City website
Cable television
Word of mouth
Pioneer Press
Star Tribune
Social Media (ex. Facebook, Twitter..etc)
Nextdoor
Page 28 of 34 51
12. Please tell me which one of the following you consider to be the greatest
public safety concern in Falcon Heights? If you feel that none of these problems
are serious in Falcon Heights you can choose “None”
Violent crime
Drugs and /or alcohol
Youth crime and /or vandalism
Automobile break-ins
Shoplifting or check fraud
Burglary or theft
Speeding
Identity theft
all equally
None
Don't Know/Refused
Other (please specify)
13. How would you rate the amount of patrolling the Ramsey County Sheriff’s
Department does in your neighborhood? Would you say they do:
Too Much
About the right amount
Not enough
Don't Know/Refused
Excellent Good Fair Poor
Police services
Fire services
Street
maintenance
Snowplowing
Animal control
Code enforcement
If you gave a ranking of "Poor" or "Fair", Please explain why you gave the rating.
14. For each of the following, please indicate whether you would rate the quality
of the service as Excellent, Good, Fair or Poor?
Page 29 of 34 52
Too Many Too Few About the right amount
Affordable rental
units
Market rate rental
units
Codominiums
Townhomes
Affordable owner-
occupied housing
Higher cost
housing
Assisted living for
seniors
Parks
Open Spaces
Trails and
bikeways
Service and retail
establishments
15. For each of the following, please indicate if you think Falcon Heights currently
has too many, too few or about the right amount.
16. The city has faced financial challenges in the last 1-2 years and faces potential
challenges in the future. In general, would you prefer that the city meet these
budget challenges by (Check all that apply)
Reducing or eliminating services
Raising taxes
Seek outside funding
opportunities/partnerships
All of the above
Something else: (please explain)
Page 30 of 34 53
If "Yes", Please call City Hall at 651-792-7600 or email sack.thongvanh@falconheights.org for more
information on volunteering
17. Would you be interested in volunteering for any aspect of community
engagement or community events?
Yes
No
Don't Know/Refused
18. What is your style of engagement that fits your personality? (Check all that
apply)
Auditory: listening/conversation
Visual: reading or art with interaction
Experimental: hands-on experimentation or
practice
A combination of the above
Other (please specify)
19. Do you support or oppose a curbside collection program for compostable
waste for an additional fee?
Strongly support
Somewhat support
Neither support nor oppose
Somewhat oppose
Strongly oppose
20. Do you support or oppose re-visiting organized trash collection for the City?
(City selecting one trash hauler)
Strongly support
Somewhat support
Neither support nor oppose
Somewhat oppose
Strongly oppose
Need more details before forming an opinion
Don't Know/Refused
Page 31 of 34 54
If you gave a ranking of "Poor" or "Fair", Please explain why you gave the rating.
21. How would you rate the general condition and appearance of Falcon Heights?
Excellent
Good
Fair
Poor
If you gave a ranking of "Poor" or "Fair", Please explain why you gave the rating.
22. When you consider the property taxes you pay and the quality of city services
you receive, would you rate the general value of city services as:
Excellent
Good
Fair
Poor
23. Please rate your sense of feeling connected in the City of Falcon Heights
Very connected
Somewhat connected
Neither connected nor disconnected
Somewhat disconnected
Very disconnected
24. What are some ways in which you think the city could improve inclusivity?
If you gave a ranking of "Poor" or "Fair", Please explain why you gave the rating.
25. From what you know, do you approve or disapprove of the job the Mayor and
City Council are doing?
Excellent
Good
Fair
Poor
Page 32 of 34 55
If you gave a ranking of "Poor" or "Fair", Please explain why you gave the rating.
26. From what you have heard or seen, how would you rate the job performance of
the Falcon Heights City Staff?
Excellent
Good
Fair
Poor
None One Two Three or more
Adult 65 or over
Adults between
50-64
Adults between
18-49
School-age
children and
preschoolers
27. Please tell me how many people in each of the following age groups live in your
household.
28. Do you own or rent your present residence?
Own
Rent
Refused
29. Which of the following describes your age range?
Under 18
18-24
25-34
35-44
45-54
55-64
65+
Page 33 of 34 56
30. Which of the following categories represents your ethnicity?
Caucasian
African American
African African
Asian or Pacific Islander
Native American
Mixed Bi-Racial
Don't Know
Refused
31. What is your gender identification?
Male Female
Other (please describe)
32. What is the highest degree or level of school you have completed? If currently
enrolled, highest degree received.
Some high school, no diploma
High school graduate, diploma or the
equivalent (ex. GED)
Some college credit, but no degree
Trade/technical vocational training
Associate degree
Bachelor's degree
Master's degree
Professional degree
Doctorate degree
33. What was your total household income before taxes during the past 12
months?
Under $15,000
Between $15,000 and $29,999
Between $30,000 and $49,999
Between $50,000 and $74,999
Between $75,000 and $99,999
Between $100,000 and $150,000
Over $150,000
Decline to answer
Page 34 of 34 57