2017.01.17 CC Packet - Goal Setting Session

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Parks Plan. The Parks Plan is a chapter of the City's Comprehensive Plan and is one of the chapters that will likely see major revisions when the comp plan is updated. The Parks Commission has begun this process and public meeting will being this spring. Administration and Planning: Downtown Hugo. Following the completion of the downtown market study, we know that commercial development in downtown is viable. The Council and Planning Commission have also determined that the downtown design guidelines are still a proper guide for new development in the downtown area. The EDA has approved a marketing plan that is being implemented by staff. Staff will continue to facilitate discussions between landowners to promote the private redevelopment of the old stock lumber site. Collaboration with others. We will continue to seek ways to provide improved municipal services at a lower cost where possible by combining efforts with other entities. Washington County has completed a study of Economic Development services and has hired a full time staff person who has been collaborating with us. The County is also deciding how to implement a recently completed plan concerning delivery of library services, including Hugo. The Building Department continues to provide full time building permit and inspection services for the City of Scandia, and part time for other cities. Development. Staff is closely monitoring the pace of development activity which has been increasing recently. Some ongoing development projects include Adelaine Landing, Lavalle Fields, Fox Meadows, Prairie Village, Victor Gardens North Village, Clearwater Cove, Dignicare, Frenchman Place, Sprouts Pediatric Dental, Western Spring, and others. There is significant interest in vacant, undeveloped land parcels as well. Technology. The staff continues implementation of a document imaging system. This will convert the city's paper files to electronic files. The system will allow for easier searching of documents and is beginning to change the way the city does business. New equipment has been installed in the conference room, and other upgrades are needed at the front counter, and other public spaces. Staff will be evaluating new software for plan review capability, and we will be allowing more city business to be conducted on-line. Comprehensive Plan. This will be a major effort for the Council, Commissions and City staff throughout 2017, with the kickoff meeting to be held in February. Historical Commission. This year, the Commission is planning to evaluate and make recommendations concerning the future of the Hopkins Schoolhouse. The Historical Commission will continue cataloging the City's history. They would like to hire an intern to assist with this task and the organizing and maintenance of their existing collections. The Historical Commission would also like to attract additional members. A Beautification Subcommittee has been established and has been making recommendations on entry signs, landscaping, monuments, and other items to improve the city's appearance.