HomeMy WebLinkAboutPEC PACKET 03022026CITY OF SAINT ANTHONY VILLAGE
PARKS AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
MEETING AGENDA
Monday, March 2, 2026 at 7:00 PM
Members of the public who wish to attend the meeting may do so in person.
Call To Order
Roll Call
Approval Of Agenda
Approval Of Minutes
Approval Of PEC Meeting Minutes
PEC 12 -01 -2025 REG.PDF
Presentations
Silverwood Park Updates
Alyssa Baguss, Silverwood Park Supervisor, presenting.
FEBRUARY 2026 SILVERWOOD PEC.PDF
Citizens For Sustainability Updates
Dan Kunitz, Citizens for Sustainability Member, presenting.
2026 MARCH CFS PEC.PDF
Rain Barrel Workshop
Minette Saulog, Sustainability Coordinator, presenting.
RAIN BARREL PROGRAM 2026.PDF
General Business
Sustainable Building Ordinance
Steve Grittman, City Planner, presenting.
COVER MEMO SUSTAINABLE BUILDING ORDINANCE.PDF
02.25.2026 DRAFT SUSTAINABLE BUILDING ORDINANCE.PDF
Climate Plan
Minette Saulog, Sustainability Coordinator, presenting.
COVER MEMO CLIMATE PLAN WATER.PDF
PRESENTATION.PDF
PERVIOUS PAVERS MEMO FROM 06032024 PEC MEETING.PDF
Commission & Staff Reports
Community Forum
Individuals may address the Parks Commission about any City business item not included on the
regular agenda. Speakers are requested to come to the podium, sign their name and address
on the form at the podium, state their name and address for the Clerk ’s record, and limit their
remarks to three minutes. Generally, the Park Commission will not take official action on items
discussed at this time, but may typically refer the matter to staff for a future report or direct the
matter to be scheduled on an upcoming agenda. Those unable to attend the meeting in person
may submit comments via the City's PUBLIC COMMENTS FORM .
Adjournment
Next Meeting
If you would like to request special accommodations or alternative formats, please contact the City
Clerk at 612 -782 -3334 or email city@savmn.com . People who are deaf or hard of hearing can
contact us by using 711 Relay.
Our mission is to promote a high quality of life to those we serve through
outstanding city services.
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CITY OF SAINT ANTHONY VILLAGEPARKS AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MEETING AGENDAMonday, March 2, 2026 at 7:00 PM Members of the public who wish to attend the meeting may do so in person.Call To OrderRoll CallApproval Of AgendaApproval Of MinutesApproval Of PEC Meeting MinutesPEC 12 -01 -2025 REG.PDFPresentationsSilverwood Park UpdatesAlyssa Baguss, Silverwood Park Supervisor, presenting.FEBRUARY 2026 SILVERWOOD PEC.PDFCitizens For Sustainability UpdatesDan Kunitz, Citizens for Sustainability Member, presenting.2026 MARCH CFS PEC.PDFRain Barrel Workshop
Minette Saulog, Sustainability Coordinator, presenting.
RAIN BARREL PROGRAM 2026.PDF
General Business
Sustainable Building Ordinance
Steve Grittman, City Planner, presenting.
COVER MEMO SUSTAINABLE BUILDING ORDINANCE.PDF
02.25.2026 DRAFT SUSTAINABLE BUILDING ORDINANCE.PDF
Climate Plan
Minette Saulog, Sustainability Coordinator, presenting.
COVER MEMO CLIMATE PLAN WATER.PDF
PRESENTATION.PDF
PERVIOUS PAVERS MEMO FROM 06032024 PEC MEETING.PDF
Commission & Staff Reports
Community Forum
Individuals may address the Parks Commission about any City business item not included on the
regular agenda. Speakers are requested to come to the podium, sign their name and address
on the form at the podium, state their name and address for the Clerk ’s record, and limit their
remarks to three minutes. Generally, the Park Commission will not take official action on items
discussed at this time, but may typically refer the matter to staff for a future report or direct the
matter to be scheduled on an upcoming agenda. Those unable to attend the meeting in person
may submit comments via the City's PUBLIC COMMENTS FORM .
Adjournment
Next Meeting
If you would like to request special accommodations or alternative formats, please contact the City
Clerk at 612 -782 -3334 or email city@savmn.com . People who are deaf or hard of hearing can
contact us by using 711 Relay.
Our mission is to promote a high quality of life to those we serve through
outstanding city services.
I.II.III.IV.A.Documents:V.A.Documents:B.Documents:C.
Documents:
VI.
A.
Documents:
B.
Documents:
VII.
VIII.
IX.
X.
1 CITY OF ST. ANTHONY
2 PARKS AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MEETING
3 DECEMBER 1, 2025
4 7:00 p.m.
5
I.6 CALL TO ORDER.
7
8 Chairperson Fee called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
9
II.10 ROLL CALL.
11
12 Commissioners Present:Chair Lily Fee, Commissioners Yaacoub Hark (arrived at 7:08 p.m.),
13 Kristen Peterson, Jessica Swiontek.
14
15 Absent:Commissioner Natalie Synhavsky.
16
17 Also Present: Assistant City Manager Ashley Morello, Sustainability Coordinator
18 Minette Saulog, Citizens for Sustainability Representative Dan
19 Kunitz, and School Board Representative PJ Striker.
20
21 III.APPROVAL OF THE DECEMBER 1, 2025, PARKS AND ENVIRONMENTAL
22 COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA.
23
24 Motion by Commissioner Swiontek, seconded by Commissioner Peterson, to approve the
25 December 1, 2025, Parks and Environmental Commission agenda.
26
27 Motion carried unanimously.
28
IV.29 APPROVAL OF THE SEPTEMBER 8, 2025, REGULAR PARKS AND
30 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES.
31
32 Chair Fee noted on page 7 line 12 correct Lee to Fee. On page 8 line 34 the program is called
33 Lawns to Legume.
34
35 Motion by Commissioner Swiontek, seconded by Commissioner Peterson, to approve
36 September 8, 2025, Regular Parks and Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes as
37 presented.
38
39 Motion carried unanimously.
40
41 Commissioner Hark arrived at the meeting at 7:08 p.m.
42
43 V.PRESENTATIONS.
44
A.45 Citizens for Sustainability Updates.
46
47 Citizens for Sustainability Co-chair Dan Kunitz reviewed a PowerPoint presentation that
48 included 2025 CFS Outreach, 2025 CFS Outreach Organizations, Still in 2025, Coming up
49 next in 2026, and Upcoming Collaborations. Mr. Kunitz provided an Earth Week update.
Parks and Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
December 1, 2025
Page 2
1 Renewable energy installation & home efficiency upgrade credits expire on December 31.
2 Details: homes.rewiringamerica.org/save.
3
4 Mr. Kunitz asked for a PEC contact for the following initiatives: SAMS Energy Conservation
5 Competition, Earth Week, and Sustainability Event. For the Energy Conservation
6 Competition, Commissioner Peterson will be the contact. Chair Fee suggested revisiting the
7 contacts next year after the new Commission is appointed. Commissioner Hark offered to be
8 involved with Earth Week. Mr. Kunitz will reach out to Sustainability Coordinator Saulog for
9 the Sustainability Event.
10
11 VI.GENERAL BUSINESS.
12
A.13 Parks CIP Presentation.
14
15 Assistant City Manager Morello reviewed a PowerPoint that included the 2026 Budget
16 Calendar, PEC Items are Included in Various Budgets – General Fund, PEC Items are
17 Included in Various Budgets – Capital/Building Improvements Fund, Park Improvement
18 Fund, and Overall Park and Environmental Spending.
19
20 Ms. Morello stated that on December 9, the Public Hearing and Presentation of the 2026
21 Budget and Levy, and the adoption of the 2026 Budget and Property Tax Levy will occur.
22
23 Commissioner Peterson asked about the Emerald Park Trail and if that only included internal
24 to the Park or a connection to another trail. Ms. Morello stated it is just within the park.
25
26 Chair Fee asked what the payback period is for LED lights. Ms. Morello stated that at this
27 time, staff does not know what the ROI is. Staff will continue to look for grant opportunities.
28
B.29 2026 PEC Work Plan.
30
31 Sustainability Coordinator Saulog reviewed the St. Anthony Village Parks & Environmental
32 Commission 2026 Work Plan. Ms. Saulog noted the Work Plan will be approved by the City
33 Council in January 2026.
34
35 General Items
1.36 Support staff with ongoing Climate Plan implementation.
2.37 Provide recommendations to the City Council regarding environmental and
38 sustainability-related policy items.
3.39 Education and outreach with the community to promote sustainability and the City
40 plans related to climate.
4.41 Attend joint meetings with City Council and/or Planning Commission as scheduled.
42
43 Specific Tasks for 2026
1.44 Support Climate Plan implementation (2026: Water & Waste focus).
a.45 Active Transportation Plan anticipated by Spring 2026.
Parks and Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
December 1, 2025
Page 3
b.1 Advising potential ordinances and programs: Sustainable Buildings, waste,
2 curbside compost.
c.3 Promote water conservation and waste reduction efforts throughout the
4 community.
d.5 Continued support of ongoing Energy & Transportation initiatives as applicable.
6
2.7 Provide PEC representation in planning or assisting with sustainability and
8 environmental events as requested by staff or community groups.
a.9 May include but not limited to city recycling events, swaps, rain barrel workshop,
10 Sustainability Fair, Earth Day cleanups, and other opportunities.
11
3.12 Continue collaboration with Citizens for Sustainability to enhance City green space,
13 including park cleanup and pollinator plantings.
14
4.15 Continue education & outreach in conjunction with staff and community and regional
16 organizations to promote Climate Plan initiatives and sustainability.
17
5.18 Conduct a survey with businesses located in the city to inform waste reduction efforts.
19
6.20 2050 Comprehensive Plan – preliminary preparation tasks.
a.21 Participate in joint work session to identify priorities for a request for proposal
22 (RFP) for the 2050 Comprehensive Plan.
23
7.24 Review the annual Parks Capital Improvement Plan.
25
8.26 Attend Annual Parks Summit meeting with City Council, School District, and Sports
27 Boosters.
28
29 Monitor Emerging Topics and Address as Needed.
30
31 Ms. Saulog reviewed the 2026 Climate Plan Policy Items for Focus Areas: Water and Waste.
32 These included the specific Climate Plan actions for consideration that were determined to be
33 Policy-oriented. This means that PEC would advise Council on whether or how to move
34 forward, using information provided by Staff.
35
36 Commissioner Peterson asked if there are any specific topics for work sessions in 2026, and
37 Ms. Saulog said there are no specific topics planned yet. Work sessions will be scheduled as
38 needed.
39
40 Chair Fee stated the Work Plan looks very good.
41
42 Commissioner Hark asked about the waste reduction survey and asked how that will be
43 conducted. Ms. Saulog stated that the thought is to conduct it online, but plans have not yet
44 been finalized.
45
46 Ms. Saulog noted the attachment as a reference to the focus areas of water and waste.
Parks and Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
December 1, 2025
Page 4
1
2 VII.COMMISSION REPORTS.
3
4 Commissioner Hark had nothing to report.
5
6 Chair Fee stated she attended the bike audit and noted it was well organized. This is the last
7 meeting of her three-year term on the Commission.
8
9 Commissioner Swiontek stated that this is also her last meeting. It was a wonderful
10 experience. In the last quarter, she invested in solar for their home.
11
12 Commissioner Peterson stated that she became a Rewiring America Electrification Coach.
13
14 Ms. Saulog stated she has attended meetings with MNDOT and the consultants regarding the
15 plan. She thanked Chair Fee and Vice Chair Swiontek for their service on the Commission.
16
17 Ms. Morello stated she is grateful for the opportunity to work with Chair Fee and Vice Chair
18 Swiontek.
19
20 The Commission’s first meeting in 2026 will be on the first Monday in March. There will be
21 an onboarding work session before that meeting for new Commissioners.
22
23 VIII.COMMUNITY FORUM - NONE.
24
25 No one appeared to address the Commission.
26
27 IX. ADJOURNMENT.
28
29 Motion by Commissioner Swiontek, seconded by Commissioner Peterson, to adjourn the
30 December 1, 2025, meeting of the Parks and Environmental Commission at 8:00 p.m.
31
32 Motion carried unanimously.
33
34 Respectfully submitted,
35
36
37 Debbie Wolfe
38 TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
2/25/2026
1
Silverwood Park
Alyssa Baguss, Silverwood Park Supervisor
Summer Concerts
Ben Moren
Surface Tension
March 12 to April 30, 2026
Opening Reception: Thursday, March 12
from 6 – 8 pm (free, all ages)
Large-scale cyanotype prints and video
immerse viewers in the shifting surface of
Lake Superior, revealing a hidden history
beneath its beauty.
1
2
2/25/2026
2
Natural World
FotoMatter Collective
March 12 to April 30, 2026
Opening Reception: Thursday, March 12
from 6 – 8 pm (free, all ages)
This group exhibition explores the many ways we
connect with and shape the natural world through
photography, installation, and time-based media.
Together, the works invite a deeper look at nature
as an active, evolving presence in our lives.
Summer Concerts
Naturally, St. Anthony
An exhibition featuring artwork by
the students of St. Anthony Middle
and High Schools
On view May 7 to 16, 2026
Opening Reception: Thursday, May 7
from 6 – 8 pm (free, all ages)
3
4
2/25/2026
3
Craft Your Path: Vision Board Workshop
In partnership with SAV
January 2026 February 2026
2nd Annual Puzzle Showdown
In partnership with SAV
Community Photo Puzzle
2026 SAV Puzzle Showdown
Featured Photographers
John Ashmore
Karen Bartig
Joanne Cady
Arabella Girardi
Leah Glantz
Mark Hinrichs
Ruth Hultgren
Walter Huss
Bonnie Jonas
Miranda Fishbach Striegel
Axelina Swenson
Dana Thielen
Justin Vorbach
Laura Wiesner
5
6
2/25/2026
4
Fix-it Clinic
In partnership with Ramsey County
Saturday, March 28
10AM – 1PM FREE
Clothing Swap
In partnership with SAV
Sunday, April 19
1 PM – 3PM FREE
e-cology: Streaming
Friday, March 13, 2026
6–9PM, free
Activities include:
-Interactive stream flow lab
-Marbled artmaking activity
-Sound and visual art with water
-'Puzzling Ecosystems' gameplay
-Local food truck
7
8
2/25/2026
5
International Sculpture Day!
Saturday, April 25, 2026
-10:00-11:15AM, guided
sculpture tour
-1:00-3:00PM, hands-on art
activity (drop-in)
Free, all ages
Ongoing Wellness Programs
at Silverwood Park:
Mindful Creations with
NAMI Minnesota
Every second Wednesday
1-3PM
Ages 18+
Free, registration
recommended (sign up
through www.namimn.org)
SPARK! For Individuals
Living with Memory Loss
and Their Care Partners
Every second Thursday
10-11:30AM
All ages
Free, registration
recommended
Weekly Sunset Yoga
Every Tuesday, 6-7:15PM
Monthly Gentle Yoga Flow
Mondays, 6:30-7:30PM
3/16, 4/20, and 5/11
Ages 14+
$12 per session, drop-ins
and all abilities welcome
9
10
2/25/2026
6
Spring Sound Meditation
with Waking Nomad
Sunday, March 29, 2026
9:30-11:30AM
-Cultivate awareness using sound as a
tool for going inward.
-Guided breathwork to release tension
and reset the nervous system.
-Ages 14+, $30 per participant.
SILVERWOOD PARK CAFÉ
Open 9 am – 5 pm daily
Come try one of our Seasonal Drinks
And locally made ice cream from
Minnesota Dairy Lab
11
12
2/25/2026
7
For up-to-date calendars and
rental information, contact
silverwoodevents@threeriversparks.org
Silverwood Rental Facilities
Book your special event in 2027!
Every first Monday of the month:
5-7 PM,Rental Open House
Silverwood Park
Alyssa Baguss, Silverwood Park Supervisor
13
14
2/25/2026
1
Citizens for
Sustainability
Parks &
Environmental
Commission Update
March 2, 2026
Citizens working to create a resilient and sustainable community
1. Earth Week
2. Environmental Stewardship Scholarship
3. Edible Landscape Class
2
Agenda
1
2
2/25/2026
2
3
Earth Week
Join CFS and other organizations to support and protect our
planet with community clean-ups and Adopt-a-Drains, to a
clothing swap, fix-it hub, and zero-waste pancake breakfast.
https://citizensforsustainability.org/earthday
4
April 26, 10am ‐noon
Earth Day Parks Clean‐up
3
4
2/25/2026
3
5
Environmental Stewardship Scholarship
Help us recognize two graduating SAHS seniors’ commitment to
environmental stewardship and honor their energy and passion
with a donation to their future education
Email me at dkunitz@gmail.com to donate to the scholarship fund
March 28th, 10-11:30 am
City Hall Council Chambers
Join Village Gardeners and learn about integrating edible
plants into garden design.
$15 through Community Services at https://tce.me/jkXvWa
6
Edible Landscaping Class
5
6
2026
1
2026 RAIN BARREL
PROGRAM
Minette Saulog,
Sustainability
Coordinator
March 2, 2026
WHAT IS THE RAIN BARREL PROGRAM?
•The City provides an opportunity each year
for residents to participate in our rain barrel
program.
•Barrels are repurposed from oak wine
barrels and then sold to residents at a
reduced price of $100.
•Sign up starts April 1.
2026
2
BENEFITS OF RAIN BARRELS
•Using reclaimed rainwater captured from a rain barrel to water
your lawn and garden is a great way to practice sustainability and
protect your local environment.
•Harvesting and re-using rainwater decreases the impact of
stormwater runoff to our lakes and streams.
•Protects the environment and minimizes localized flooding and
erosion.
•Additional benefits in urban areas include an increase in soil
moisture levels for urban greenery.
•Collected water can be used to meet regulatory requirements for
stormwater volume control and water quality.
TIPS FOR RESIDENTS
•System should be watertight, have a smooth interior
surface, be located on level and stable ground, have a
tight-fitting lid, durable screens on the inlet and outlet
and have an emergency overflow device.
•Barrel material should withstand pressure of water over
longer periods of time.
•Barrel should include an overflow deflection and
routing feature to keep water away from the foundation
of your home.
2026
3
SAV RAIN BARREL PROGRAM DETAILS
•Online sign-up form will be at savmn.com/rainbarrels
•Be sure to sign up and send payment early (or drop off cash or check at
City Hall) as only 15 barrels are available for purchase.
•Barrels will be delivered to your home in late April by the Public Works
Department.
•Must be a City resident
•Only new participants accepted (cannot already own a barrel purchased
through City program)
•First come/first served; must provide full payment to secure a barrel
•One barrel per household
QUESTIONS?
MEMORANDUM
To:Saint Anthony Village Parks and Environmental Commission
From:Steve Grittman, City Planner
Date:March 2, 2026
Request: Ordinance 26-XX Review: Sustainable Building Ordinance
BACKGROUND
At the April 2, 2025 work session, the Parks and Environmental Commission (PEC) met to consider high
level parameters of a sustainable building policy. Considering a sustainable building policy for new and
remodeled construction projects was listed as an energy focus action item in the City’s Climate Plan.
At the work session, staff had shared best practices based on other agencies and requested feedback
pertaining to the type of approach, priority impacts to include in the overlay, as well as recommendation
on type of applicable projects.
The City Council then reviewed the PEC’s recommendations at a work session in the fall of 2025. Council,
PEC and staff agreed that a mandatory approach via ordinance was the most effective approach,
compared to suggestion or scoring approaches. A mandatory approach establishes a standard best
practice with straight forward guidance for developers.
The group had consensus that the ordinance should be applicable to new and redevelopments projects
impacting multi-family housing, commercial and industrial zones.
In addition, many agencies’ sustainable building ordinances or policies include “overlay” criteria, which
are essentially criteria specific to the community to capture the City’s priorities or context sensitives.
STAFF RESEARCH
Staff had reviewed a number of local agencies’ sustainable building efforts. The Center for Energy and
Environment and Hennepin County developed a sustainable building policy guide in 2021, which the City
used as a key framework to develop their approach and ordinance.
Sustainable Building Policy Basics
•A policy can include compliance with a third-party rating system (i.e. LEED, B3, etc) to support
standardization for sustainable building across the region. These rating systems are well-known
in the construction industry and allow developer flexibility to meet policy requirements.
•A policy can also include specific for a Saint Anthony Village overlay which are specific to the City
and typically in addition to the third-party rating system.
The City is pursuing a mandatory approach via an ordinance, ensuring compliance from a sustainability
standpoint. More standardization helps with competition and cost control. Staff is mindful and heard
feedback from the PEC and Council to avoid turning off developers who are considering
new/redevelopment in SAV. Staff anticipates that a mandatory approach will result in less confusion as
having language in code will be clear for developers to follow, and if it is written into Code. Staff further
recommends a mandatory approach for maximum impact, as this relates to city Climate Plan goals for
reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Third Party Rating System
Best practices recommend the use of a third-party rating system, along with a customized City overlay.
This allows the city to customize its policy or ordinance, but provides flexibility for developers in how to
meet sustainable building targets
•City benefits: lessens the need for specialized staff or extensive staff time in verifying project
compliance, since third-party systems already use widely accepted sustainability standards.
•Other benefits: leveraging existing rating systems that are well-known in construction allows
easier communication and more cost-effective implementation.
•Common examples: B3 Guidelines, LEED
Staff recommends the Council considers utilizing a third-party rating system. This supports
standardization in the metropolitan area and state as well as addresses staff time and resources. Staff
will research and determine a third-party rating system.
City Overlay Criteria
It is common practice for cities to identify additional criteria for their policy. The Council may identify
criteria to include in their Sustainable Building Policy, in additional to the third-party rating system.
Recommended Overlay Criteria
Predicted and actual energy use
Predicted and actual use of potable water
Utilization of renewable energy
EV charging capability (if parking is included)
Diversion of construction waste from landfills and incinerators
Stormwater management
Ongoing monitoring of actual energy and water use (track impacts and
ensure compliance)
DRAFT ORDINANCE
The attached draft ordinance is designed to create a format for the PEC review and comment, based on
prior research and discussion at both PEC and City Council levels. The ordinance relies on the direction
provided by the PEC and staff, and incorporates elements of several of the local municipalities’ policy
documents for its structure.
The ordinance consists of four basic components. First is a general purpose statement which is intended
to encapsulate the many policy statements and direction that have led to the creation of the ordinance.
Next is a listing of those properties that would be subject to the requirements of the ordinance. These
include new Multiple Family developments of more than 4 units, expansions of existing multi-family
projects of more than four units, renovations of any multi-family projects that require specific zoning
approvals (such as Conditional Use Permits or Planned Unit Development).
Commercial and Industrial projects are included if they consist of new or expanded floor area of at least
10,000 square feet. The text proposes to exempt existing unaffected building area from the
requirements of the code, applying the requirements to the new square footage only. For renovation
project, the proposed language relies on valuation, using a threshold value of 50% of the existing value
as the point at which a renovation project would be required to incorporate the ordinance standards.
Finally, the draft ordinance would require that projects receiving City financial assistance would be held
to the standards in the new ordinance.
Included in this section is a note that applicants may seek relief by applying for a variance. Since the
Sustainable Building Ordinance is a component of the zoning ordinance, the terms of the zoning
variance process would apply to this section.
The third aspect of the proposed ordinance sets a series of standards that would apply to the buildings
identified in the second section. These include a reduction in energy use, a reduction in water use,
modifications to incorporate renewable energy sources, compliance with the City’s EV charging
requirements, a plan for diversion of construction waste from landfills and incinerators, and
improvements that will reduce stormwater runoff from the site.
Finally, the fourth section establishes a compliance and monitoring protocol through a third party
evaluator. This draft suggests that evaluation would occur at both permit application and one-year
stages to measure the impacts of both building compliance and ordinance effectiveness. Other methods
may be appropriate in this regard.
DISCUSSION ITEMS FOR COMMISSION FEEDBACK
Staff asks PEC to review the draft ordinance to ensure that the proposed ordinance reflects the Council’s
priorities.
NEXT STEPS
Following the PEC meeting, this draft ordinance will be reviewed by Planning Commission which would
hold a formal public hearing. Following the public hearing, the ordinance would be sent to City Council
for three ordinance readings, which is standard practice based on the City Code.
ATTACHMENTS
Ordinance 26-XXX
1
CITY OF SAINT ANTHONY VILLAGE
ORDINANCE 2026-XX
AN ORDINANCE
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAINT ANTHONY VILLAGE HEREBY
ORDAINS:
Section 1.Section §154 (Zoning Code) is hereby amended to add the following:
154.70 Sustainable Building Regulations
(A) Purpose. Saint Anthony Village adopts these requirements in support of its
commitment to achieving its goals relating to environmental responsibility,
lessening impacts on near-term and long-term environmental quality, and
promoting the objectives of its Climate Plan, Energy Action Plan, Comprehensive
Plan and other sustainability initiatives. By 2040, the City is working to reduce
city-wide CO2 emissions by 80% and city facility CO2 emissions by 100%, with
the recognition that large buildings are a significant contributor of CO2. The
standards in this Section are designed to help achieve those goals.
(B) This Section applies to all buildings that meet the following threshold
elements:
(1) Any new Multiple Family Residential or other attached housing project
of more than four (4) dwelling units.
(2) Any expansion of an existing Multiple Family Residential or other
attached housing project which expands the number of dwelling units by
more than four (4) units.
(3) Any renovation or redevelopment of a Multiple Family Residential or
other attached housing project consisting of four (4) or more dwelling
units that requires a Conditional Use Permit or Planned Unit Development
approval from the City.
(4) Any building project in a C-Commercial or LI, Light Industrial zoning
district consisting of more than 10,000 square feet of new or expansion
square footage. The requirements of this Section shall apply only to the
new or expanded portions of the project, and shall not apply to existing
portions of the building which are not being modified, except as may
apply under Subp. 154.70 (B)(5) of this Section.
(5) Any building renovation project in a C, Commercial or LI, Light
Industrial zoning district for which the building permit valuation
constitutes more than fifty percent (50%) of the County’s total Estimated
Market Value for the property in question.
(6) Any building project that receives public financial assistance from the
City of St. Anthony or its HRA in the form of Tax Increment Financing or
other assistance. This clause shall not apply to projects that receive
2
financial assistance from agencies or programs other than the City of St.
Anthony, but such projects shall be subject to the other threshold standards
of this Section as applicable.
(7) Applicants for construction projects subject to this Section may seek a zoning
variance from any specific requirement of this ordinance per the process and
requirements of Section 154.244 of this Code. The City Council, sitting as the
Board of Adjustments and Appeals, shall have the authority to exempt any project
from all or some of the requirements of the Section where it finds that the
application of the requirements would unduly burden the reasonable construction
of a project that otherwise is deemed to meet the goals and objectives of this
Section. (C) All buildings meeting the threshold requirements of this Section
must fully comply with the “Saint Anthony Village Overlay,” which outlines
specific measurable standards that buildings must comply with in addition to
certification with a third party Sustainable Building Rating System. The Saint
Anthony Village Overlay requires the following:
(1) Buildings shall achieve a reduction in energy use (or for new
constructions, maximize energy efficiency) by meeting the Sustainable
Buildings 2030 Energy Standard through design and operation.
Applicants shall provide documentation of energy usage over the most
recent 12 month period of occupancy, and demonstrate measures to reduce
usage by the prescribed amount. Where the building has not been fully
occupied, the City and property owner/manager may create an estimated
prediction of such usage for purposes of applying this Section.
(2) Buildings shall achieve a reduction in potable water use of at least 30%
below the water efficiency standards of the Energy Policy Act of 1992,
and reduction in landscaping water use by 50% compared to traditionally
irrigated sites using typical water consumption for underground irrigation
system standards. Applicants shall provide documentation of water usage
over the most recent 12 month period of occupancy, and demonstrate
measures to reduce usage by the prescribed amount. Where the building
has not been fully occupied, the City and property owner/manager may
create an estimated prediction of such usage for purposes of applying this
Section.
(3) Buildings shall incorporate modifications that provide for utilization of
renewable energy sources. Such modifications may include on-site
facilities, or subscription to a cooperative renewable energy program
operated by other entities. The City may approve alternative options for
renewable energy utilization.
(4) Buildings shall incorporate facilities to comply with the City’s current
requirements for Electric Vehicle charging in Section 154.179(A)(12).
(5) Building construction managers shall provide documentation of plans
to divert at least 75% of construction waste from landfills or incinerators,
and shall implement such plans throughout construction.
(6) Building projects shall incorporate current Best Management Practices
3
and additional on-site stormwater management facilities that reduce the
quantity of stormwater flowing to off-site storm sewers and ponding areas.
Such facilities may include surface or underground infiltration, bio-
filtration basins, water capture/reuse, or other similar facilities to be
approved by the City Engineer.
(D) Third Party Sustainable Building Rating System
(1) Building owners and/or managers shall comply with one of the
following third party Sustainable Building Rating Systems. Applicable
versions of Sustainable Building Rating System include the most recent or
current iteration of a rating system in existence at the time of development
application.
(a) US Green Building Council LEED Building Design and
Construction (LEED BD+C) or Building Operations and
Maintenance (LEED O+M); Certified, Silver, Gold or Platinum
(b) State of Minnesota B3 Guidelines; Certified Compliant
(c) Equivalent substitute standards may be utilized with prior
approval at the discretion of the City.
(E) Compliance and Monitoring.
(1) Compliance and Monitoring shall include an evaluation of compliance
with the requirements of this Section at the time of permit approval, and
again at the one-year anniversary date of receipt of a Certificate of
Occupancy. Evaluations are to be provided to the City for review.
(2) The Requirements of the Ordinance may be waived by zoning
variance, in whole or in part, by the City Council after consideration of the
advantages and disadvantages of a waiver, and upon demonstration by the
City of a compelling public purpose.
The requirements of this Ordinance may be modified by the City by
zoning variance only for reasons of practical difficulty. Practical difficulty
includes the inability to physically achieve the requirements due to
circumstances unique to the property. Economic reasons alone do not
constitute a practical difficulty. Approved modifications must result in the
project remaining in harmony with the intent of the Sustainable Building
Ordinance to the maximum extent practicable. Maximum extent
practicable means the highest level of efficacy that can be achieved
considering the effectiveness, engineering feasibility, commercial
availability, safety, and cost of the measures. Decisions on modification of
the Ordinance by the City may be appealed to the City Council.
ADOPTED BY the City Council of Saint Anthony Village, Minnesota this ____ day of _____,
2026.
4
___________________________________
Mayor Webster
ATTEST:
___________________________________
City Clerk
AYES:
NAYS:
MEMORANDUM
To:Saint Anthony Village Parks and Environmental Commission
From:Minette Saulog, Sustainability Coordinator
Date:March 2, 2026
Request:Climate Plan Informational Review – Water Focus Area
BACKGROUND
Saint Anthony Village adopted its first Climate Plan in December 2023. This Climate Plan was developed
using community input and established priorities for the City in the areas of sustainability,
environmental and climate action work. As stated in the Plan, the City’s goal is to reduce city-wide CO2
emissions by 80% and city facility CO2 emissions by 100% by 2040. The definition of city-wide includes
homes, businesses, multi-unit buildings and large commercial facilities.
The Plan is comprised of four focus areas: Energy, Transportation, Water and Waste. Each focus area is
comprised of three broad initiatives that were identified as areas for the City to work towards. Within
each initiative there are a variety of action items classified as Policy, Education and Outreach. Policy-
oriented actions are directed by PEC and City Council, while Education and Outreach actions are led by
staff.
The Climate Plan focus area actions is being implemented in key phases. In 2025, staff and PEC
concentrated on Energy and Transportation action items. In 2026, the Water and Waste actions will be
reviewed. Energy and Transportation focus areas were topics in separate PEC meetings in 2025 with
presentations highlighting the action items similar to the one being shared tonight.
The Climate Plan agenda item for tonight’s PEC meeting is an informational review of the Water Focus
Area of the plan. No action is needed, this is intended to provide Commissioners with a staff update on
the current status of these initiatives.
ATTACHMENTS
Presentation
Pervious Pavers Memo from 06032024 PEC meeting
2/25/2026
1
CLIMATE PLAN OVERVIEW
WATER FOCUS AREA
Minette Saulog,
Sustainability
Coordinator
March 2, 2026
BACKGROUND
•The Water section is a Climate Plan focus area for the City in
2026, along with the Waste section.
•PEC will focus on supporting action items and strategies that are
policy-oriented, which are being reviewed tonight.
•The Climate Plan includes the full list of strategies that include
these as well as education and operations-oriented strategies
being owned by staff.
2/25/2026
2
INITIATIVE 1: CONTINUE TO REDUCE DRINKING WATER
CONSUMPTION IN HOMES AND BUSINESSES
ACTION CURRENT STATUS
Water restrictions-enforcement and fees for non-
compliance.
Non-compliance of water restrictions is a minimal problem and quickly
resolved through the Code Official’s education and outreach efforts with
those residents, without the need for imposing fees.
The City Code Official presented to City Council at the Feb 24, 2026 work
session regarding administrative penalties. The fee in this action would be
considered an administrative penalty, but has been determined to be low
impact.
Add code language to specify that rain sensor is
required on new watering systems and put in place a
mitigation plan/promotion to encourage existing
systems install a rain sensor.
State law requires that licensed contractors and installers must include rain
sensors for all new watering systems. The City defaults to state law and does
not need to write language into its own code. Possible opportunity for
engagement and education for existing/DIY watering systems and awareness
on the life span of rain sensor devices.
INITIATIVE 1: CONTINUE TO REDUCE DRINKING WATER
CONSUMPTION IN HOMES AND BUSINESSES
ACTION CURRENT STATUS
Review city use of sprinklers to ensure behavior and
compliance to minimize water usage and adhere to
same standards we will hold residents to.
Staff have engaged Public Works regarding watering practices at city facilities,
which is as follows:
- City Hall and Central Park are irrigated using re-use water collected during
rain events, splash pad runoff, and water treatment plant backwashing.
- Sprinkler systems have rain sensors that prevent them from running when
unnecessary.
- City adheres to the watering restrictions that are also required of
residents.
2/25/2026
3
INITIATIVE 2: REDUCE EXCESS IMPERVIOUS SURFACES TO
IMPROVE WATER INFILTRATION AND QUALITY
ACTION CURRENT STATUS
Use of permeable surfaces in new developments and
re-developments.
New developments and re-developments must meet requirements for a
maximum allowed lot coverage (aka impermeable surface).
Permeable surface materials are allowed, but are considered impervious for
the purposes of calculating lot coverage. There are no plans to change these
requirements due to the clay nature of the City’s soil.
Incentive for property owners to remove unused
impermeable surfaces.
City Council is scheduled to have a work session on April 28th regarding
principles of how to fund “incentive” type Climate Plan programming.
Outcome is subject to Council discussion and direction.
INITIATIVE 2: REDUCE EXCESS IMPERVIOUS SURFACES TO
IMPROVE WATER INFILTRATION AND QUALITY
ACTION CURRENT STATUS
Zoning policy establishing a maximum allowable area
of new impervious surfaces in commercial district.
City Code outlines a maximum percentage of lot coverage (all impervious
surfaces) based on zoning classification and property size for all private
properties including commercial.
The Code Official proposed a language update to City Council at the Feb 24,
2026 work session to exclude public right of way from calculating impervious
surface ratios. This provides clarity to the calculation method determining
allowed maximum of impervious surfaces.
Revisit recent ordinance change not recognizing
pervious pavers.
This ordinance was revisited in the June 3, 2024 PEC Meeting. A memo from
the City Engineer provided at that meeting is attached for reference
explaining rationale.
2/25/2026
4
INITIATIVE 3: ESTABLISH A REVEGETATION PROGRAM TO
REPLACE LOST TREE COVER
ACTION CURRENT STATUS
Consider establishing a revegetation fund to help
residents pay to have dead trees removed and
replaced with more hardy species.
City Council is scheduled to have a work session on April 28th regarding
principles of how to fund “incentive” type Climate Plan programming.
Outcome is subject to Council discussion and direction.
Use the city's RFP process to negotiate a reduced
rate for homeowners who choose to use a single
vendor for tree removal.
The City has previously done research with WSB on the possibility of a bulk
“discounted group rate” arrangement with a single vendor for tree removals
in the city. Due to the various factors that can impact a tree removal project, it
was determined that cost savings would not be realized and could result in
higher project costs. It is more financially advantageous for a resident to seek
multiple estimates from contractors on their own.
Staff are monitoring for grants and other funding opportunities that can
support homeowners needing assistance with costs related to tree removal
on private property.
QUESTIONS?
G:\Group Data\Municipal\Clients - Cities - Counties\St. Anthony\City Engineer\Letters_Memos\MEMO-3417 Skycroft Retaining Wall-052120.docx
7 0 1 X E N I A A V E N U E S | S U I T E 3 0 0 | M I N N E A P O L I S , M N | 5 5 4 1 6 | 7 6 3 . 5 4 1 . 4 8 0 0 | W S B E N G . C O M
Memorandum
To:Mr. Charlie Yunker - City Manager, St. Anthony Village
From:Justin Messner, PE – City Engineer
Date:05/29/2024
Re:Permeable Pavement and Pavers as Pervious Surface
This memo has been prepared in response to a recent request to accept permeable pavements
and pavers as pervious surface. Currently when reviewing a site plan for impervious surface
calculation, St. Anthony Village considers permeable surface materials (asphalt, concrete, pavers),
artificial turf, and playground surfacing to be impervious.
Regulating impervious surface areas is an environmental effort for the following reasons:
To minimize the volume of stormwater runoff (infiltration)
To improve water quality (filtration)
To reduce urban heat islands
To reduce the rate of stormwater runoff being discharged to Minnesota wetlands, lakes,
and streams
Impervious surface areas displace living vegetation and reduce ecological productivity, and
interrupt atmospheric carbon cycling
Per the US EPA National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) guidelines, permeable
pavements and pavers can be effective at reducing stormwater discharges and pollutant
concentrations, though their effectiveness can be variable and depends more on the design
of underlying layers and surrounding environmental conditions than surface type.
Throughout the majority of St. Anthony Village, the underlying soils are predominantly tight, clay
soils with low hydraulic conductivity, thus not allowing infiltration and therefore offering minimal
reduction in stormwater runoff. Although reduction in stormwater volume is generally a function of
subsoil infiltration rate and base storage capacity, permeable pavements and pavers can reduce
pollutant concentrations through several processes. The media layers filter stormwater and
promote pollutant removal through physical filtration and biological processes. The subgrade soils
are also a major factor in treatment.
A research study conducted at the Water Resources Research Institute of the University of North
Carolina on the performance of permeable pavement over a tight, clay soil concluded the overall
volume reduction via exfiltration and evaporation was moderate (22%) which was expected given
the limitations of the underlying soil. Volume reduction was understandably lower than studies of
permeable pavements built over infiltrative soils but was achievable to moderate levels by the
inclusion of an internal water storage zone. Furthermore, pollutant loads for nutrients, sediment,
and metals were typically reduced by 70%.
Recommendations:
1.Permeable pavements (asphalt, concrete, pavers), artificial turf, and playground surfacing that
is designed to infiltrate stormwater when maintained is considered impervious surface, but may
be used as a volume-reduction practice in accordance with the table provided below:
Permeable Pavement and Pavers as Pervious Surface
5/29/2024
Page 2
VOLUME REDUCTION CREDIT SCHEDULE
Hydrologic
Soil Group
Design
Guidance
Volume
Control (VC)
Credit
Calculation
Methods
HSG A
Minnesota
Stormwater
Manual
1-inch credit
over the surface
area
VC = 1/3 x area of
permeable surface
HSG B
Minnesota
Stormwater
Manual
1-inch credit
over the surface
area
VC = 1/4 x area of
permeable surface
HSG C &D
Minnesota
Stormwater
Manual
1-inch credit
over the surface
area
VC = 1/6 x area of
permeable surface
2.To determine the hydrologic soil group, designers shall test the in-situ soil infiltration rate by
two soil pit measurements completed with a double-ring infiltrometer.
3.Permeable pavement and pavers shall be designed in accordance with the Minnesota
Stormwater Manual.
4.For hydrologic soils groups C or D, a 4-to-6-inch diameter perforated PVC (AASHTO M-252)
schedule 40 pipe (underdrain) shall be installed for the full length of the permeable pavement
cell, and non-perforated pipe, as needed, connected to storm drainage system.
5.Over time permeable pavement and pavers become less effective and act more like traditional
impervious surfaces. A stormwater management facility must be designed for maintenance
access and maintained in perpetuity to function as designed.
6.As a condition of permit issuance, a permittee must sign and record on the title a stormwater
facility maintenance agreement, in a form supplied by the City or otherwise acceptable to it,
that provides for perpetual facility maintenance.
7.Permeable pavement and pavers surfaces should be discouraged in areas of commercial or
multi-family traffic.
8.Permeable pavement and pavers surfaces should be discouraged where salt exposure is likely
to occur unless pavers have been sealed with an epoxy or sealant.
9.Permeable pavement and pavers surfaces are highly susceptible to clogging from high
sediment loading runoff areas such as gravel parking lots, routinely disturbed or bare ground
areas, or wooded areas with light ground cover. Pervious pavers should be located away from
these source runoff areas.
10.Permeable pavement and pavers that will infiltrate water into the subgrade soil should be
located a sufficient distance from downgradient steep slopes to minimize the potential for slope
failures or erosion due to seepage.
References:
AS Braswell, RJ Winston, WF Hunt, 2018, Hydrologic and water quality performance of
permeable pavement with internal water storage over a clay soil in Durham, North Carolina,
Journal of Environmental Management 224, 277-287
US EPA, 2021, NPDES: Stormwater Best Management Practice—Permeable Pavements
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, 2024, Minnesota Stormwater Manual