2023.01.23 Packet - Goal Setting Workshop

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Ditches. The Rice Creek Watershed District plans to finish a significant maintenance project along Judicial Ditch #3 this year. The ditch runs through multiple neighborhoods and work has been very noticeable. City staff is leading a project to complete the last major section of Judicial Ditch #2. The goal (weather permitting) is to complete all major ditch maintenance work in the City. Following that will be ongoing minor maintenance. City staff will be working with the Rice Creek Watershed District on an agreement concerning how to do this, who does it, and how the work is funded. Water: White Bear Lake Lawsuit. As has become normal, this topic will again be a major distraction in 2023. We expect activity both at the legislature and with the courts. The City has actions pending with an Administrative Law Judge concerning water appropriation permits. We are hopeful to work toward a mediated solution between all parties in 2023. Stormwater re-use. Last year, the City re-used over 70 million gallons of water through this program. Construction is ongoing on new several projects that will be privately managed by Homeowners Associations. Staff continues to seek outside funds and project ideas for other re- use projects. An effort this year will be to evaluate the successes and failures of these projects, with a hope to improve processes that lead to their construction, and also possible enhancements to existing projects. Water Conservation. Many of the measures the city has implemented for water conservation will likely be negatively impacted following the recent court rulings on the White Bear Lake issue. Staff has implemented several programs using grant and city funds that have resulted in substantial conservation of water and savings on water bills for hundreds of Hugo residents. We will continue to seek new ways to lead in this area. Regional water studies that impact Hugo continue to be developed and updated. Staff reviews this data, participates on many task forces and committees and is involved in regional discussions involving water use. Phil Klein remains as a member of MAWSAC. Fire Department: Administration. Council will consider whether to hire a full-time Fire Chief, and reorganize the staffing structure within the Fire Department. Once Council makes a decision, significant staff time will be spent implementing Council’s direction. Parks: Lion’s Volunteer Park and Peter Pedersen Pavilion. Some minor work on the new building, the playground area, and the turf establishment will continue this year, with the park being open for public uses, except for large events that depend on the establishment of quality turf. Staff is implementing a new program for reservation of community rooms. The Parks Commission would like to create a space within the park that allows opportunities for recognition of volunteers.