2019.01.23 CC Packet - Goal Setting Session

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Administration and Planning: Downtown Hugo. Staff anticipates continuing to spend time in 2019 meeting with people who are interested in development within downtown. Last fall, the City signed a purchase agreement for development of a restaurant on city -owned land. With that agreement expiring soon, the city may need to pursue alternatives. The Council and Planning Commission have 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 Building Department continues to provide full time building permit and inspection services for the City of Scandia, and part time for other cities. The City is working with Washington County to transfer operation of the city's compost site to the county, and expand operations to accept brush. Development. Staff is closely monitoring the pace of development activity which has been increasing recently. Some ongoing development projects include Adelaide Landing, Oneka Place, Victor Gardens North Village, Clearwater Cove, Schwieters, Creekside Heights, Fable Hills, Waters Edge, Norman Woods, and others. There is significant interest in vacant, undeveloped land parcels as well. Facilities. The Public Works Director has been scheduling meetings with firms to help evaluate possible expansion needs at Public Works. Staff may be prepared to discuss options with the Council in 2019. Modifications to Public Works will involve further discussions with the Sheriff's office. A new roof and HVAC mechanical equipment was installed at the Fire Hall in 2018. Staff is also discussing maintenance and minor upgrades that are needed at City Hall. White Bear Lake School Facilities. The school district is evaluating their own facility needs in response to growth within the district, especially growth occurring in Hugo. There has been significant discussion between While Bear Lake School Administration and Hugo staff about the need for additional school buildings. We expect this discussion to advance towards a specific proposal in 2019. Technology. The staff continues implementation of a document imaging system. Much of this conversion to electronic files has been complete, which is improving the way that service is delivered. Staff has also been working on the implementation of a new permitting software that will allow for electronic submittals of permits and plans. When complete, much of the transactional business that must now occur at the front counter, will occur on-line instead. New equipment should be considered for installation within the Council Chambers and Oneka Room. Council may wish to discuss electronic packets, including city -issued tablets. Comprehensive Plan / Ordinances. This significant effort was largely completed in 2018. The official submittal will occur in early 2019 with implementation to follow. Implementation normally starts with an evaluation of city ordinances. There has been some