Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-05-2018 WSCH COLUMBIA HEIGHTS City of Columbia Heights 59040 th Avenue NE, Columbia Heights, MN 55421 -3878 (763) 706 -3600 Visit our website at: www.columbiaheightsmn.gov Meeting of: Date of Meeting: Time of Meeting: Location of Meeting: Purpose of Meeting: NOTICE OF WORK SESSION Columbia Heights City Council Monday February 5, 2018 7:00 PM (Following the EDA Meeting) City Hall- Conference Room No. 1 Work Session 1. Update on Comp Plan - Hoisington Koegler Group Inc. 2. Discussion of snow and ice removal from sidewalks 3. Community Survey Results 4. Goals & Objectives Updates Mayor Donna Schmitt Councilmembers Robert A. Williams John Murzyn, Jr. Connie Buesgens Nick Novitsky City Manager Walter R. Fehst Auxiliary aids or other accommodations for disabled persons are available upon request when the request is made at least 48 hours in advance. Please contact the City Clerk at 763 - 706 -3611 or kbruno @colurAbiaheightsmn.evv, to make arrangements. Work Session Item 1 CH COLUMBIA 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update HEIGHTS City Council Work Session M13 Hoisington Koegler Group Inc. February 5, 2018 69 n INTRODUCTION At the February 5th work session meeting of the City Council, we like to take some time to review preliminary drafts of two of the Comprehensive Plan chapters; Land Use and Economic Competitiveness and provide background information about the Housing chapter as well. The Land Use and Economic Competitiveness chapters build on the material contained in the current 2030 Comprehensive Plan. The two draft chapters have been shared with the Comprehensive Plan Review Committee but their recent meeting on January 22nd was cancelled due to inclement weather. As a result, Committee members have been encouraged to submit comments via email and the drafts will be reviewed at their next meeting on February 26th. At the City Council meeting, we'll walk through the significant aspects of each chapter. The following provides a brief overview. Land Use Chapter The Land Use chapter draft is an early version of what the chapter will eventually become. Changes that will occur include: • Expand the goals and policies to include information related to active and healthy living. • Update the concept graphics for 40th and Central to show a potential change in the office building use. • Expand the narrative associated with some of the future land use categories to ensure that they are either compatible with the City's current and /or future zoning classifications as well as the minimum density thresholds established by the Metropolitan Council. • Add graphics as appropriate from the City Hall site selection study. • Update the Public Facilities map to reflect the new library location. • Add a section on resilience. The Land Use chapter is typically one of the most referenced chapters in any comprehensive plan. While it contains material on a variety of subjects, the future land use map is one of the key elements. Since the initial draft was assembled, we have been working with City staff to further modify the Future Land Use Plan map. Included are maps depicting Existing Land Use, 2030 Planned Land Use (from the previous Comp Plan), and 2040 Planned Land Use (Comp Plan update). Also included is a map that highlights the changes between the 2030 map and the 2040 map. We'll spend time at the meeting specifically walking through the changes to verify the City Council's concurrence with the modifications. iv COLUMBIA(b HEIGHTS EXISTING LAND USE SF Residential Apartments .Institutional Open Water , Vacant bvmhomes Cmtdominium Industrial Railway . MPLSWW H � a TFResidential ® Commercial . Park ROW Source: HKGI, City of Columbia Heights, Anoka County Miles 0 0.25 0.5 1 COLUMBIA O HEIGHTS Low Density Residential . Commercial Religious Institution ROW Medium Density Residential ■ University Mixed Use Industrial MPLSWW . High Density Residential . Transit Oriented Development Railway Transitional Development . Institutional Park M14+tnroi is I Miles Sauce: HNG! City or Columbia Heights, Metropolitan Council 0 0.25 0.5 1 on COLUMBIA + HEIGHTS Low Density Residential Transitional Development . Transit Oriented Development W Park . MPLSWW Medium Density Residential I tl Commercial Industrial Open Water High Density Residential Institutional ; n Railway ROW V vi(OV.n Miles Source: HK6i, Cityo(Colwnbia Heights, Metropolitan Council 0 0.25 0.5 1 0 4 COLUMBIAN] HEIGHTS Low Density Residential _ Transitional Development Transit Oriented Development = Park MPLSWW Medium Density Residential Commercial - Industrial Open Water High Density Residential Institutional Railway ROW Miles Source: HKGi, Cky o /Cdumbia Heighrs 0 0.25 0.5 5 Economic Competitiveness In the 2040 Comprehensive Plan, the Economic Development chapter is being relabeled as the Economic Competitiveness chapter. This change is reflective of more current thinking about the need to make sure that cities are competitive and it aligns with regional economic initiatives. The initial draft of the chapter is substantially complete. We are likely to add some additional information on economic development programs and like the Land Use chapter; we will add a section on resilience. Housing The draft of the Housing Chapter will be reviewed later this month by the Comprehensive Plan Review Committee. Accordingly, we'd like to take some time to review some of the Metropolitan Council's information and requirements for the housing section of the plan. In the current round of comprehensive plan updates, housing has emerged as the topic of most interest to the Metropolitan Council as well as to the staff who will be reviewing the Columbia Heights Comprehensive Plan for consistency with regional plans and policies. We'll use a series of PowerPoint slides to highlight some of the key information. CHAPTER 2 LAND USE The Heights Theater 2 -8 INTRODUCTION The Land Use Plan provides the framework for how land will be used in the future. It seeks to reinforce desirable land use patterns and identify places where change is needed. Since Columbia Heights has little or no vacant land, the primary purpose of the Columbia Heights 2040 Future Land Use plan is to guide parcels identified as having redevelopment potential consistent with the overall objectives of the City. The Metropolitan Council classifies Columbia Heights as an "Urban Center." Urban Center communities include the largest and most economically diverse cities in the Twin Cities region. As an Urban Center community, Columbia Heights is expected to accommodate forecasted population and household growth at densities of at least 20 units per acre for both new development and redevelopment. Since Columbia Heights is a fully developed first ring community any future growth will continue to occur through redevelopment and infill. Over the past decade, the City has succeeded in instituting large -scale redevelopment such as the area around Huset Park; however, there are other areas within the city that also demonstrate strong redevelopment potential. Most of these areas lie along the primary roadway corridors that pass thought the community, such as University Avenue NE, Central Avenue NE and 40th Avenue NE. Future redevelopment efforts, primarily along these corridors, will provide new opportunities to attract future residents while improving the community's tax base, employment base and image. The Land Use Plan establishes the foundation for all the other elements of the Comprehensive Plan. Using this plan the City will determine how best to balance all the necessary land uses including housing, commercial, industrial, parks, public uses and open spaces while identifying linkages between each. The plan should also be a guide as to how the City will address many of the issues found in Urban Center communities, including population changes, an increasing elderly population, on -going upgrades to parks and infrastructure, providing diverse housing while encouraging maintenance of existing housing stock, and creating opportunities for new economic growth. The Land Use chapter also has a direct linkage to overall community image. A positive community image is derived from a number of elements including the physical features of the community, available services and overall economic stability. All efforts to enhance the image of Columbia Heights need to build on the positive aspects of the community including successful redevelopments, good schools, diversity within the resident population and strong housing affordability, while minimizing and improving upon the negative aspects that are occurring in Columbia Heights. These include feelings of safety, aging housing stock, increase in rental conversions, an aging population, need for new commercial opportunities, new higher paying jobs and general overall appearance. Creating the appropriate land use plan that supports redevelopment efforts can be combined with creating implementation strategies to help strengthen the community's image. DRAFT The Land Use Plan and other chapters of the Comprehensive Plan should together comprise a roadmap that highlights the qualities that make Columbia Heights unique, identifies which new opportunities for redevelopment and economic growth can be pursued, and recommends strategies the City can use to achieve its development goals and meet the community's future needs. The land use chapter of the Comprehensive Plan will: Discuss land use patterns and provide an overview of development and redevelopment opportunities; Discuss trends and challenges; and Tie the future land use plan to Metropolitan Council requirements. COMMUNITY AND LAND USE GOALS AND POLICIES Goals and policies have been identified for each of the chapters of the 2040 Plan. For the land use chapter, goals and policies identified as part of the 2030 Plan have been critiqued and modified based on input from the community and changes that have occurred over the past decade. The land use goals and policies relate to the overall image or character of Columbia Heights, preservation of commercial areas and supporting redevelopment. These goals and policies will be beneficial in helping to prioritize the City's resources related to continuing redevelopment efforts, supporting new job and industry growth and ensuring the continued provision of quality public services. Specific strategies have been added to some of the goals and policies to provide further direction for action steps that will help meet the goal. Other policies speak clearly as to the steps needed to meet the goal. Community Image Goals and Policies Goal: Establish and maintain a strong sense of community. 1. Enhance the social fabric of the community through city -wide events and programs. Continue annual events to bring the community together. Develop new events that highlight unique attributes of the community. 2. Continue to support the development of a mixed -use downtown /civic core along Central Avenue to provide a focal point for the community. Through redevelopment, include public open spaces and design elements that encourage public interaction. 3. Create innovative ways to advertise public events and notices to residents of all ages. Broaden the use of the City's website, newsletter, local newspapers and other online media to promote the city and advertise special events. Encourage businesses to participate and market community events. 2017 Community Picnic DRAFT 2 "9 LaBelle Park Community Event Goal: Strengthen the identity and image of the community as a desirable place to live, work and play. 1. Enhance the physical appearance of the community through clean -up initiatives, redevelopment opportunities, and housing renovation programs. » Advertise and promote housing renovation programs available to residents. » Provide staff assistance to homeowners to process applications. » Hold city -wide clean up and recycling events in neighborhoods and commercial areas such as an annual clean -up day utilizing City trucks to pick up garbage for free. » Consider burying all telephone lines to improve the aesthetic appearance of the community. 2. Identify themes that will give the city a unified expression and statement. » Create a specific marketing and promotion effort for the downtown central business district with the intent of creating a unique and marketable identity for Columbia Heights. 3. Create opportunities for and encourage the establishment of a positive media campaign to promote Columbia Heights. 4. Enhance community gateways by developing a plan to install signage, features and landscaping at city entrances. » Prepare a city -wide gateway plan complete with lighting, signage and other features. » Enhance the north end of Central Avenue to create a sense of place (49th Avenue and North) » Evaluate the budget to plan for one upgraded gateway per year. 5. Encourage public art in redevelopment projects and at public facilities. b. Provide opportunities for growth and development throughout the city while retaining the community's small -town character. Goal: Promote activities and provide opportunities that encourage social interaction among diverse groups of city residents. 1. Create events that highlight the strengths of the diverse population that exists in Columbia Heights. » Develop multi - lingual communication efforts on City programs, procedures, policies and events. 2-10 DRAFT Land Use and Redevelopment Goals and Policies Goal: Preserve and enhance the existing viable commercial and industrial areas within the community. 1. Facilitate the enhancement and redevelopment of major streets and commercial districts. » Seek funding mechanisms for additional streetscape improvements. 2. Create a redevelopment plan for the 40'h Avenue Corridor. Assemble a redevelopment plan for 40th Avenue NE to provide for increased neighborhood commercial development and protect existing residential properties as appropriate. Goal: Provide mechanisms for successful redevelopment of vacant lands and targeted areas within the community. 1. Enhance the image and viability of the Central Avenue corridor while protecting and enhancing adjacent residential uses. Utilize mixed -use land use and design principles to integrate office, commercial and residential uses with a focus on pedestrian and bicycle amenities within redevelopment along Central Avenue. >> Encourage redevelopment discussions for the northern corridor of Central Avenue at 49'h Avenue to the city limits. 2. Create a unified downtown central business district that provides a focal point for the city along Central Avenue, recognizing the need to modify existing standards in order for redevelopment to occur. 3• Continue to work with the City of Hilltop in an effort to establish a common redevelopment plan for Central Avenue. » Engage in quarterly dialog with the City of Hilltop regarding joint redevelopment efforts. 4. Enhance the image and viability of the University Avenue corridor while providing opportunities for transit - related uses. Coordinate efforts when redevelopment opportunities arise along Central Avenue. 5. Encourage infill development that demonstrates compatibility with existing neighborhood characteristics in terms of quality, design, building height, placement, scale and architectural quality. Redevelopment Site Central Avenue Corridor Bus Stop DRAFT 2-11 Goal: Promote the safety of residents and ensure a safe environment for pedestrians and bicyclists. 1. Create a lighting plan that will increase visibility and public safety among residential and commercial areas. 2. Provide accessible and safe pedestrian connections to destination points throughout the community. » Require mandatory sidewalks for all redevelopment projects. 3. Address problem intersections when nearby redevelopment occurs. Goal: Provide convenient access to mixed use land use developments to optimize mobility of non - motorized modes of travel and decrease dependency on the automobile. i. Place mixed use land uses adjacent to transit with convenient pedestrian and bicycle access. » Ensure that design review standards and ordinance requirements support walking, biking and other alternative modes of transportation. 2. Encourage multi -modal transportation options by designating areas around mixed use land uses for streetscape improvements. Goal: Provide a natural buffer between housing and industrial zones to promote community health. 1. As redevelopment occurs in industrial areas require an increase in the amount of landscaping or other buffering as well as improvements to the building aesthetics. 2 -12 DRAFT EXISTING DEVELOPMENT OVERVIEW Conditions in Columbia Heights have changed significantly since the city's period of rapid growth as a first -ring suburb during the 195os and 1960s. While single family homes still remain the predominant land use in Columbia Heights, changing demographics and community needs will continue to drive land use changes. A summary of existing land use (Table 2 -1) is provided below to establish a better understanding of existing conditions. TABLE 2 -1. EXISTING LAND USE Land Use Single Family Residential Acres 1,011 Net Percent Total Acres 44.9% Townhomes 46 2.1% Two Family Residential 76 3.4% Apartments 59 2.6% Condominium 23 1% Commercial 107 4.8% Institutional 61 2.7% Religious 16 2.9% Industrial 64 3.7% Parks /Open Space 130 5.8% Open Water 55 2.4% Right -of -Way 516 22.9% Vacant 7 •3% MPLS Water Works 77 3.49/b Total 2,250 100% While single family residential represents slightly less than half of the city's total acreage, multi - family uses including townhomes, two - family homes, apartments, and condominiums, also make up a significant portion of the city's land use (9 percent). Public and Semi - public uses, including the Minneapolis Wastewater plant, and religious institutions make up a combined 9 percent of the city's total land use. The amount of public and institutional uses has tax implications for the City, as taxes are not collected on these properties. Nearly 8 percent of the city consists of parks, water, or wetland, representing areas of the city that will not be developed. Commercial and industrial uses account for 9 percent of the city's total land use. A strong commercial /industrial base is important to provide jobs for residents of the city and to diversify the City's tax base. The Existing Land Use is shown on Figure 2 -1. 2 -13 FIGURE 2 -1. EXISTING LAND USE SF Residential Apartments Institutional . Park ROW ivTownhomes . Condominium Religious Open Water Vacant 3 TF Residential - Commercial M Industrial Railway MPLSWW z Z MINNEAPOLIS Source: HKGi, City of Columbia Heights, Anoka County 2 -14 0 0.25 0.5 � Miles 1 0 RIGHTON VTHONY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT OVERVIEW Single Family Columbia Heights has a balanced mix of single family and multi - family housing to accommodate residents throughout their lifestyles. Single family residential is the predominant land use, occupying about 459/b of the city's total acreage. Many of the city's existing single family homes meet the Metropolitan Council's affordability benchmarks and will continue to provide affordable options for young families. Close proximity to downtown Minneapolis also makes Columbia Heights an attractive place to live. Recent Redevelopment The City has ongoing efforts to address blighted single family homes. The Columbia Heights Economic Development Authority has acquired and demolished blighted single family homes paving the way for the private sector to replace them with new single family detached homes. The City currently provides guidance for single family residential homeowners to upgrade and enhance their properties, which will also promote investment in single family residential areas. Multi - Family The city's medium density, multi - family housing stock, including townhomes and two - family homes, are distributed throughout predominately single family neighborhoods. The two - family uses are duplexes, either built as such or converted over the years. A cluster of townhomes is located on the west side of Sullivan Lake, and there is another cluster of two - family homes, known as the Circle Terrace Neighborhood, located just east of Labelle Park. In general, many properties within the Circle Terrace neighborhood are in need of ongoing maintenance and rehabilitation. The area has been identified as an area for reinvestment. Labelle Park is a valuable amenity in this area that can be used to promote reinvestment. Higher density housing opportunities in Columbia Heights, including apartments and condominiums, are scattered throughout the city, including just south of the Minneapolis Wastewater Treatment Plant off of Reservoir Boulevard, west of Labelle Park and east of Central Avenue, along the west side of University Avenue between 42nd Avenue and 41st Avenue, in the northwest corner of the city two blocks west of Sullivan Lake, and two blocks east of University Avenue on 51st Avenue. There are also locations of medium density apartment buildings scattered along University Avenue. Recent Redevelopment Due to the City's focus and emphasis on redevelopment and reinvestment in key areas, Columbia Heights has seen new multi - family housing projects in recent years. In addition to providing increased housing options for residents, the projects have also promoted reinvestment in key redevelopment areas. DRAFT 2-15 Redevelopment around Huset Park has provided significant new attached housing opportunities. While a small amount of vacant land remains adjacent to the round -about at 39th Avenue NE and Jefferson Street NE, most of the area has been redeveloped. The Legends of Columbia Heights is the most recent project in the area and includes 191 units of senior housing. The Legends project and the surrounding neighborhood area are well situated to take advantage of transit service on University Avenue. The former 15 -acre Kmart Site at Central Avenue between 47th Avenue NE and 49th Avenue NE has been undergoing redevelopment over the past ten years. The Grand Central Lofts project, which includes condominiums and townhomes, was one of the first projects completed in the area. More recently, the addition of two new apartment buildings has completed the project and have added a total of 148 rental units. The location of this housing is well situated to take advantage of frequent transit service along Central Avenue and to promote additional transit oriented development along the corridor. This development also aids in creation of housing opportunities that will be attractive to young professionals or empty nesters who would like to stay in Columbia Heights as well as to people who desire a smaller, maintenance free lifestyle. RETAIL /COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT OVERVIEW The city's commercial uses are concentrated along Central Avenue and at many smaller commercial sites scattered along University Avenue, making up about 5 percent of the city's total acres. The downtown is centered on the intersection of Central Avenue and 4oth Avenue. As the city's historic downtown, reinvestment in this area will be a key component of plans for the future. As the primary commercial corridor passing through the heart of Columbia Heights, the success of Central Avenue as a commercial corridor is critical. To promote reinvestment in the area, the City will continue to improve the roadway and pedestrian facilities along the corridor to enhance the downtown environment. In recent years, corridor improvements have included colored concrete crosswalks, decorative sidewalk patterns, planters, new street signals, ornamental pedestrian light fixtures, street trees, on- street parking, and multiple store fronts. Making these kinds of improvements creates a sense of place and identity for Columbia Heights and is especially important at its gateways on either end of Central Avenue. These improvements can also renew interest in the area and motivate property owners /tenants in the corridor to reinvest and make improvements to their own properties. Recent Redevelopment The most recent commercial redevelopment in Columbia Heights involves the conversion of an old Rainbow Foods grocery store and Slumberland Clearance Centerjust south of 44th Avenue NE along Central Avenue into a new 144,000 square foot Hy -Vee grocery store. The project also included re- facing all of the existing storefronts, new signage, and retaining wall and landscaping improvements. Further to the north at 47th Avenue NE and Central Avenue NE, Hy -Vee also opened a 4,500 square foot gas and convenience store with an imbedded coffee shop. In the future, it is expected that this site will also accommodate an additional fast food restaurant. 2 -16 INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT OVERVIEW Industrial development in Columbia Heights is concentrated in the southwest corner of the city and makes up about 4 percent of the city's total acreage. Current industrial businesses in consist of a mix of light and heavy industrial users. Options for industrial users in the city are limited. In response to this and the need for increased in higher wage jobs, the City needs to be creative in its efforts to attract high -tech or other light industrial uses. This is discussed later in this chapter as well as in the Economic Competitiveness chapter. TRENDS AND CHALLENGES As an Urban Center community, Columbia Heights faces a variety of land use and planning trends and challenges that are shared with many other similar communities, as well as several issues that are unique to the city. As the City plans for the future, efforts will be focused on addressing these challenges through redevelopment and reinvestment to successfully adapt to changing conditions and to capitalize on future opportunities. Current trends and challenges include the following issues: Aging housing stock A majority of first and second ring suburbs, developed primarily in the years following World War II, are now addressing many issues related to an aging housing stock. Almost 80% of Columbia Heights' housing was built prior to 1980. Due to their age, these homes provide affordable options for residents. On the other hand, oftentimes residents of these homes have household incomes that limit their ability to reinvest in the repairs and renovations needed to maintain their homes and the larger neighborhood. In order to remain competitive among other similar communities, inner ring suburbs must provide new housing options, as well as new commercial centers, parks and trails, and other amenities to continue attracting new residents. One option is for the City to review and amend ordinance requirements that might limit expansion options to smaller post -World War II housing stock. Reducing setbacks and other measures can create opportunities for room additions that growing families need without having to move to outer suburbs. Aging housing stock also affects a city's tax base and funding. Cities collect less taxes on lower valued properties, which results in less funding for services. Aging population Typical of many other first ring communities, Columbia Heights has an aging population, a trend that is projected to continue as the baby -boom generation ages. Many seniors desire to age in place and remain in their homes and their community as long as possible. New senior developments are being constructed in many inner ring suburbs, including Columbia Heights, which cater to seniors by providing medical and other services, community gathering space, and a DRAFT 2-17 more dense residential setting. In addition to housing, the aging trend also affects employment trends and social service needs. For those more active seniors who still wish to work or seek out civic engagement opportunities, it is important that such opportunities can be easily accessed from their residences. Mixed use development provides opportunities to locate seniors close to entertainment and employment options. Due to limited mobility, an aging population also creates demand for different transportation options than the automobile, such as mass transit, dial -a -ride and pedestrian trails. While Columbia Heights is committed to meeting the needs of the aging population, the City is also cognizant of the need to remain attractive to the Millennial and younger generations. Interestingly, living environments attractive to the well elderly portion of the population are also attractive to Millennials. Both segments of the age spectrum value mixed -use, walkable areas close to shopping, parks and entertainment. Diverse population In recent years, Columbia Heights has seen an increasingly diverse population, both in terms of the racial make -up of the city and the number of recent immigrants to the United States. This trend is also common of many first ring suburbs and poses unique challenges and opportunities both for the City and the larger region. Immigrant populations have different social service needs than the traditional suburban population, such as the need for English classes or signage and other public service announcements in a variety of languages, and also have different housing needs. Because many immigrant families live with members of the extended families, these families typically need larger housing or apartments. As the baby- boomers retire from the workforce, immigrant populations will provide valuable skills and fill vacant positions. However, increased emphasis on training and education will be required to ensure that this population has the skills necessary to do so. Redevelopment As a fully developed community, Columbia Heights has very little land available for development. Only .3% of the total land supply is vacant. Therefore, new development in the community, which is vital to attract new residents and serve the changing needs of existing residents, will occur through redevelopment of existing properties. Redevelopment poses unique challenges for developers and communities, as issues such site contamination, land assembly, and permitting can create additional delays and expenses not experienced by development in undeveloped communities. When redevelopment does occur it will take place in or adjacent to existing neighborhoods, thus it is also critical to ensure that redevelopment projects do not negatively impact existing neighborhoods. Scale and design guidelines are critical to ensure that these projects enhance existing neighborhoods. Redevelopment is also an opportunity to provide new amenities such as small pocket parks, open space or trails that benefit existing neighborhoods. 2.18 DRAFT Aging infrastructure Planning efforts in Columbia Heights, as in many other inner ring suburbs, also must consider aging infrastructure, much of which was originally constructed over 6o years ago. Significant reinvestment is required to ensure that the City's sewer, water, and transportation infrastructure continue to support its population. As redevelopment occurs, typically at higher densities, increased stress will be placed on municipal infrastructure. Many inner ring suburbs, also dealing with decreased tax bases due to an older housing stock, are exploring innovative financing tools and jurisdictional cooperation with other local, regional, and state partnerships to fund necessary infrastructure improvements. Transportation demand Travel patterns and choices are changing in most metropolitan areas. As fuel and energy costs increase, residents will continue to demand additional transportation options, such as transit and pedestrian and bike trails. These options will also increase in importance as the population ages and older residents are no longer able to drive. High travel costs may also lead to a renewed interest in living in communities closer to central business districts, such as Columbia Heights. As travel patterns and mode choices change, so will land use patterns. To support pedestrian and transit activity, higher density land use is required to produce enough demand for trips and to provide destinations that are within walking distance from residential areas and transit stops. FUTURE LAND USE The City of Columbia Heights has developed a land use plan to respond to the trends and challenges that are likely to be faced by the community and to achieve the goals and policies presented in this chapter. Low density residential will remain the predominant land use in the city, with areas of medium and high density housing scattered throughout existing residential neighborhoods or in conjunction with larger mixed or transit - oriented development uses. University and Central Avenues will remain the primary commercial corridors within the city, with an added element of higher density housing. The industrial area will remain in the southwest corner of the city. The plan identifies opportunities for reinvestment in the community; areas for mixed use and transit - oriented development to respond to the needs of the aging population and to create vibrant transit - oriented neighborhood centers; and new areas of medium and high density housing to promote reinvestment in existing neighborhoods. The City's 2040 future land use map is presented in Figure 2 -2. 2 -19 FIGURE 2 -2. 2040 FUTURE LAND USE MAP Low Density Residential Transitional Development . Institutional ti Medium Density Residential . Commercial Transit Oriented Development . High Density Residential University Mixed Use Religious Institution z MINNEAPOLIS m Source: HKGi, City of Columbia Heights, Metropolitan Council 2 -20 0 0.25 0.5 Industrial Open Water Railway ROW NPark . MPLSWW 1 Miles 1 'r8t BRIGHTON ST ANTHONY Silver (West) Lake t G The corresponding acreages for each future land use category are presented in Table 2 -2. TABLE 2 -2. 2040 FUTURE LAND USE BY ACRES ... Planned Land Use Low Density Residential Acres 1,045 Net Percent Total Acres 46.4% Medium Density Residential 38 1.7% High Density Residential 67 3.0% Transitional Development 27 1.2% Commercial 90 4.0% University Mixed Use 9 0.40% Institutional 53 2.4% Transit Oriented Development 64 2.8% Religious Institution 23 1.0% Industrial 55 2.4% Railway 1 0.0% Park 130 5.8% Open Water 55 2.4% ROW 516 22.9% MPLSWW Total Land and Wat r Area 77 3.49io 2,250 .. . The following provides an overview of each of the Future Land Use Plan categories. Low Density Residential Low density residential development will remain as the predominant land use in the community and will include single family detached and single family attached (twin homes /duplexes) development at a density of 3 to 7.5 units per acre. Low density residential will continue to make up approximately 45 percent of the city's total acreage, as it does today. The City recognizes that the health of its existing single family neighborhoods is critical to the community as a whole, and will continue to provide guidance for residents to upgrade their properties. Columbia Heights' plan for low density residential areas addresses many of the community's goals and policies developed during the comprehensive plan process. By encouraging reinvestment in existing low density residential neighborhoods, the Future Land Use Plan will strengthen the identity and image of the community as a desirable place to live and work. This effort addresses the City's policy to enhance the physical appearance of the community through clean -up initiatives, redevelopment, and housing maintenance programs. 2 -21 The Future Land Use Plan will also provide mechanisms for successful redevelopment of vacant lands and targeted areas within the community. Targeted redevelopment of properties adjacent to existing low density residential areas, which will include high density housing or mixed use areas, will enhance existing neighborhoods through improved pedestrian facilities and connections to commercial areas, which addresses the City's policy to provide accessible and safe pedestrian connections to destination points throughout the community. New development adjacent to existing residential will be compatible with existing neighborhoods, which will address the City's policy to encourage infill development that demonstrates compatibility with existing neighborhood characteristics in terms of quality, design, building height, Placement, scale, and architectural quality. Medium and High Density Residential Medium and high density housing in the community will consist of townhomes, apartments, and condominiums, and will make up a combined 5 percent of the city's total acreage in 2040. It is important to note that additional medium and high density housing options will be provided as a component of development in the Mixed Use and Transit - Oriented Development districts as well. Medium density residential development will occur at a density of 7 to 10 units per acre, while high density residential development will occur at a density of a minimum of 20 units per acre. This type of more intense residential development will play a critical role as the community grows, as it may provide maintenance free options for older residents as well as affordable options for young residents and the community's workforce. Medium and High Density Residential areas are located near University and Central Avenues to support commercial areas and benefit from frequent transit service along the corridor. Higher density areas are also located near existing and planned Mixed Use /Transit- Oriented Development areas to provide increased synergy with these areas. Other planned higher density options are located near valuable community amenities such as Sullivan Lake, Labelle Park, and Hart Lake, providing access for residents to valuable public spaces. The provision of new Medium and High Density Residential districts responds to numerous planning goals and policies. Many of these areas, which are located near planned mixed use or transit- oriented development projects on University Avenue or Central Avenue, will incorporate improved pedestrian facilities connecting residential areas with transit opportunities and commercial destinations on these corridors. The provision of pedestrian connections within and between these developments will address the City's policy to provide accessible and safe pedestrian connections to destination points throughout the community. It will also support the City's goal to provide convenient access to mixed use developments and encourage more trips via non - motorized modes of travel and fewer trips by automobile. Re- guiding land uses in areas of the city that are currently in need of reinvestment will promote interest and redevelopment of these properties in support of the City's goal to provide mechanisms for successful redevelopment of vacant lands and targeted areas within the community. 2.22 DRAFT Mixed Use University Mixed Use: The City has established a University Mixed Use district along the east side of University Avenue from 46th Avenue north to 53rd Avenue, the northern boundary of the city. This use reflects the existing character of the corridor, which includes a mix of apartment buildings, two family residential, commercial, and single family residential developments. This designation will provide for flexibility in the event of future redevelopment by property owners that will support a mix of residential, retail, office or some combination thereof. Redevelopment in this area should be at a higher intensity and pedestrian - oriented to support transit service along University Avenue. Discussion of how this land use district will address the City's goals and policies is provided in the following section, Areas of Opportunity. Transit - Oriented Development Transit - Oriented Development land use areas, which typically includes a mix of retail, office, and higher density residential uses, are located along University and Central Avenue due to the frequency of transit service along these corridors. Density ranges may include a range similar to high density, depending on the size of the site and type of mixed use proposed. To support activity and transit use in these areas, a supportive pedestrian environment is critical. Buildings should be designed at a pedestrian - scale, with landscaping and fagade features that create an interesting and attractive pedestrian experience. Transit Oriented Development in Columbia Heights will focus on the commuting needs of its residents. Therefore, a higher percentage of service - oriented commercial /retail development, in combination with high density residential development, will be necessary both to support frequent transit service and to create convenient services and destinations for transit users. Redevelopment of these areas will also provide the opportunity for pedestrian links to other parts of the community and improvement of the overall pedestrian and bicycle circulation system, an important community amenity. Discussion of how this land use district will address the City's goals and policies is provided in the following section, Areas of Opportunity. Transitional Development District Three Transitional Development District areas are identified on the 2040 Future Land Use Plan. The first area is includes portions of the frontage along 40" Avenue NE, generally east of Jefferson Street. Development in this area will focus on strengthening the residential character of 40th Avenue and allow for opportunities of neighborhood retail /commercial activity. Commercial/ retail development will consist of a mix of neighborhood service - oriented development and varying densities of residential development. These uses will enhance the pedestrian scale and provide connection between the two commercial areas. Streetscaping and amenities will be used to provide a pedestrian focus and strengthen linkages between Central and University Avenues. The second Transitional Development District is located along the west side of University Avenue NE, south of 40" Avenue NE. This area currently contains a mix of residential and industrial uses and will be encouraged over time to accommodate both higher density housing and clean, business park industrial type uses. 2 -23 The third Transitional Development District is in the southeast corner of the city at 37`h Avenue NE and Stinson Boulevard. More information on each of these Transitional Development Districts can be found in the Areas of Opportunity section of this chapter. Commercial Development The intersection of Central Avenue and 4oth Avenue will remain as the city's commercial core. This area is the historic downtown of the city, remains a viable commercial node today, and will continue to be the focus of Columbia Heights into the foreseeable future. This area is also enhanced by a nearby transit hub at Central Avenue and 41st Avenue, which provides convenient access to the area and increased pedestrian activity to support commercial businesses. To ensure the long -term stability of this area, new investment and commitment to commercial /retail development and redevelopment will be necessary. A key component to the success of the area will be the involvement and support of existing business owners and cooperation among the business community and City leaders. The City will need to actively engage the business community to identify their needs, aid in the recruitment of new businesses that will enhance the health and vitality of the area, and develop a strategy to address these needs. The improvement of both the physical conditions of the downtown, including streetscaping, signage, and visibility, as well as its economic vitality, such as marketing and investment, will be required to ensure success of this area. Through the implementation of these objectives and targeted financial assistance, the downtown commercial /retail core of the city can be enhanced, remain economically viable, and continue to represent the center of the Columbia Heights Business District. The City's plans for Central Avenue identified above, including new investment along the corridor, the involvement of the business community, and a strategy to recruit new businesses support the community's goals to strengthen the identity and image of the community as a desirable place to live and work and to preserve and enhance the existing viable commercial areas within the community. Improved physical conditions, including streetscaping and signage, will also support these goals and will help establish and maintain a strong sense of community. As a gateway into the community, these physical improvements along Central Avenue will also enhance the city's gateways by developing a plan to install signage, features, and landscaping at city entrances. Industrial Industrial land use will remain concentrated in the southwest corner of the city as well as immediately east of Huset Park. These areas currently include a mix of light industrial development and vehicle repair uses. More information on industrial uses can be found in the Areas of Opportunity section of this chapter. 2.24 DRAFT LAND USE AND ZONING The City's Land Use Plan will be implemented through zoning controls. To implement the Comprehensive Plan, the City will review its existing zoning code to determine revisions that will be necessary to accommodate planned development. While the land use plan identifies the general type of development that will occur in each area of the city by identifying density and the general type of use, such as residential or commercial. The zoning code and map will provide greater detail than what is provided in the Future Land Use Plan to determine the specific types of development that may occur and parameters of how it can be developed in each broader land use category. In additional to providing more specific direction on density and development types, the zoning code will also include design guidelines for many of the zoning districts. This is currently in place for Central and University Avenues and could be included in other areas in the future. Typical design requirements incorporate standards to provide a high quality pedestrian environment, such as landscaping requirements and facade requirements. The relationship between the City's existing zoning districts and the future land use categories is presented in Table 2 -3• TABLE 2 -3. LAND USE COMPARED TO ZONING Low Density (3 -7.5 Units/ acre) Existing small urban lots, single and two - family, twin homes, duplexes Medium Density (7 -10 units /acre) High Density -20 units /acre Transitional Oriented Development - Allows a mix of commercial /office and residential Transit Oriented Development - Allows a mix of commercial, office, and high density residential near transit, walkable. 10+ units /acre Industrial Commercial R -1: Single Family (5.18 units /acre) R -2A: Single and Two Family (6.7 units /acre) R -213: Single and Two Family (7.26 units /acre) R- 3:Multi Family - Single Family, two family, townhouse, multi family (7.26 -10 units/ acre) R -4: Multi Family - Single Family, two family, townhomes, and apartments. Largely applied to apartments and senior buildings. Limited Business, R -3, Central Business District Mixed Use, Central Business District, General Business, R -3 residential Industrial District 1 -2 Industrial District LB- Limited Business CBD- Central Business District GB- General Business District DRAFT 2-25 AREAS OF OPPORTUNITY In addition to identifying the guiding of future land use in the community, the Land Use Plan also identifies areas where change in the community is anticipated to occur, based on analysis of existing conditions in the city and future community needs (Figure 2 -3). These areas of opportunity represent the primary locations of growth and new development in the city, and provide opportunities for Columbia Heights to accommodate new development that enhances the character of the community, and provides additional housing and commercial opportunities to serve the changing population. Identifying these areas in the Comprehensive Plan will not force change to occur. Rather, it is an initial stage in the in the process of guiding land use appropriately to support change and an acknowledgement that change may occur. Identifying and planning for areas where change is likely to occur allows the community to take a proactive, rather than a reactive, role in the future redevelopment of the city. Planning for these areas will help the City target resources and prioritize redevelopment projects to meet community needs and goals. The Comprehensive Plan identifies general locations for areas of opportunities, and general guidelines and guiding principles for the type of development that will be encouraged within these areas if redevelopment were to occur. However, it is important to note that flexibility will be required to accommodate future market conditions and community needs. Columbia Heights Areas of Opportunity include the following: Area 1 - Stinson Boulevard and 37th Avenue Stinson Boulevard and 37`h Avenue represent two major roadways within the community. At the southeast corner of the city, these areas also provide a gateway into Columbia Heights. Existing development in this area includes a variety of new and older uses. Newer uses include a liquor store and the New Perspectives Senior Living facility. Older uses include a larger retail use, a strip retail area and aging apartment buildings. Since this area is an entry point into Columbia Heights, development should be attractive and welcoming. Good vehicular accessibility and convenient access to the Silver Lake Village shopping center make the area a potential site for new higher density housing. To reflect this potential change, a portion the area is designed as Transitional Development supporting the gradual change from commercial to high density residential uses between now and 2040. 2.26 DRAFT FIGURE 2 -3. INSERT AREAS OF OPPORTUNITY MAP Low Density Residential Transitional Development . Institutional Industrial Open Water - r — Medium Density Residential Commercial Transit Oriented Development Railway ROW . High Density Residential University Mixed Use Religious Institution Park . MPLSWW Miles Source: HKGI, City of Columbia Heights, Metropolitan Council 0 0.25 0.5 1 04 Area 2 - Central Avenue from 37th Avenue NE to the Fridley Border Central Avenue in its entirety in Columbia Heights is considered an opportunity area. Central is Columbia Heights' community spine; it serves as the city's main street along the southern portion of the corridor and it becomes increasingly suburban in nature in its northern reaches. Given the frequent existing transit service along Central Avenue and its potential as a future Bus Rapid Transit kM 2 -27 (BRT) corridor, higher density transit - oriented development is appropriate along the corridor to provide new redevelopment opportunities and to enhance the pedestrian environment. Future redevelopment could be planned to accommodate transit - oriented mixed use and commercial development, with off- street parking located behind the development, rather than fronting on Central Avenue. Within Area 2, two redevelopment areas have been explored. Area A is involves land uses around the Central Avenue NE /40th Avenue NE intersection and Area B is further to the north, generally at the intersection of Central Avenue NE and 49th Avenue NE. Area A — Central Avenue NE and 401h Avenue NE The intersection of Central Avenue and 40" Avenue is generally viewed as the "low/. corner" in Columbia Heights. While the area includes a mix of suburban architecture, it also includes street front retail on the west side of Central Avenue invoking the feeling of a traditional downtown area. Two concepts were offered for this area representing differing mixes of uses and building placements. They included the following: Area A - Concept 1 �i _ _.__ ran pre.; r eFT�- - 4 I-E EL Concept i illustrates the development of a mixed -use commercial /residential building in the northeast quadrant of the intersection served by a new above grade parking ramp. Immediately north of the mixed -use building are two areas of mid - density, townhouse units. The transit center remains in its current location. A new open public plaza is shown in the southeast quadrant of the intersection, adjacent to the now vacant office tower. 2.28 DRAFT Area A - Concept 2 s Mn Concept 2 has two primary components; commercial retail and housing. This alternative reestablishes street facing retail on the east side of Central Avenue creating a line of continuous storefronts matching those on the west side of the street. Parking would be accommodated in a surface lot behind the retail building enhancing the pedestrian friendly nature of this block of retail uses. New multi - family housing with underground parking is located northeast of the retail uses. The transit center in this alternative could be integrated into the northern end of the retail center. Both of these concepts are for illustration purpose only. They depict what might happen and would need to be initiated by property owners and funded by the private sector. Area A - Guiding Principles Based on the two redevelopment concepts, the City has identified a series of guiding principles are intended to help inform any future redevelopment proposals. They include the following: Uses in the area should include retail, office, restaurants and other commercial uses along with housing, either in a vertical or horizontal mixed -use configuration. Buildings along Central Avenue on the east side of the street should have front walls that abut the sidewalk edge reflective of the existing development pattern on the west side. DRAFT 2-29 I Pnr+;t; I`11 I� Concept 2 has two primary components; commercial retail and housing. This alternative reestablishes street facing retail on the east side of Central Avenue creating a line of continuous storefronts matching those on the west side of the street. Parking would be accommodated in a surface lot behind the retail building enhancing the pedestrian friendly nature of this block of retail uses. New multi - family housing with underground parking is located northeast of the retail uses. The transit center in this alternative could be integrated into the northern end of the retail center. Both of these concepts are for illustration purpose only. They depict what might happen and would need to be initiated by property owners and funded by the private sector. Area A - Guiding Principles Based on the two redevelopment concepts, the City has identified a series of guiding principles are intended to help inform any future redevelopment proposals. They include the following: Uses in the area should include retail, office, restaurants and other commercial uses along with housing, either in a vertical or horizontal mixed -use configuration. Buildings along Central Avenue on the east side of the street should have front walls that abut the sidewalk edge reflective of the existing development pattern on the west side. DRAFT 2-29 » The front fa4ade of any new buildings on the east side should be designed in a manner that evokes the character of separate storefronts that exist on the west side. » In the northwest quadrant, residential uses should be placed on the east side abutting the park with commercial or mixed use development being located adjacent to Central Avenue. » Parking for multi - family uses should be underground. » Surface parking for commercial uses should be placed behind the building with appropriate accesses to Central Avenue. » Improve and maximize the use of existing parking structures. » Redevelopment plans should include expanded green spaces and public gathering places (plazas). » Encourage uses that will attract people and enliven this central point of entertainment and commerce in Columbia Heights. » Encourage businesses that provide goods and services that appeal to the community at large as well as the adjacent neighborhoods. » Emphasize the importance of making this area pedestrian friendly by including appropriate sidewalk widths, four season landscaping, lighting and public art. » Retain a transit center that provides access to local bus service as well as future Bus Rapid Transit (BRT). » Build off of the uniqueness of the Heights Theater to create a place that is genuine to Columbia Heights. Area B — Central Avenue NE and 49th Avenue NE The southeast quadrant of Central Avenue and 49th Avenue is currently the home of a Savers retail store. While there are no specific plans for any change or redevelopment of this site, it has identified in the comprehensive plan as an area to explore given the dynamic nature of retailing. The current building is very suburban in its form with surface parking adjacent to Central Avenue with the building located on the east side of the site. The eastern touch down point of the above grade pedestrian crossing of Central Avenue is located on this property. The northern end of Central Avenue has uses that are more suburban in form than those located further to the south. Accordingly, the configuration of the current site is consistent with many of the surrounding properties and particularly, properties between this area and 1 -694• z -30 DRAFT Area B — Concept 1 C -; L. a1v +lUv OW 10d • This option places a series of retail and restaurant uses along Central Avenue with surface parking along the sides and rear of the buildings. Also shown is new housing in the form of mid - density townhomes on the eastern side of the site. Area B — Concept 2 P -40b Aft ip I 1, _ =r %� ` CGs•V�e41Pr+U This option places a series of retail and restaurant uses along Central Avenue with surface parking along the sides and rear of the buildings. Also shown is new housing in the form of mid - density townhomes on the eastern side of the site. Area B — Concept 2 P -40b Aft ip ®r r� wit Concept 2 explores an office use on the subject site. Admittedly, the office market is challenging but some potential could exist in the long -term. The configuration shown would be a one story structure abutting Central Avenue DRAFT 2 -31 L •rte %� ` CGs•V�e41Pr+U Ire rr I- ®r r� wit Concept 2 explores an office use on the subject site. Admittedly, the office market is challenging but some potential could exist in the long -term. The configuration shown would be a one story structure abutting Central Avenue DRAFT 2 -31 that would be served by surface parking. A retail use could be substituted for the office use in this concept. Area B - Guiding Principles Based on the two redevelopment concepts, the City has identified a series of guiding principles are intended to help inform any future redevelopment proposals. They include the following: » Uses in the area could include retail, office, restaurants, other commercial uses, and housing. » Surface parking for commercial uses should be placed behind the building with appropriate pedestrian accesses to Central Avenue. » Encourage businesses that provide goods and services that appeal to the community at large as well as the adjacent neighborhoods. » Emphasize the importance of making this area pedestrian friendly by including appropriate sidewalk widths, four season landscaping, and lighting. Area 3 - 4oth Avenue NE Between Central Avenue and University Avenue Connecting between Central Avenue and University Avenue, 4oth Avenue is an important community roadway and one that is under the jurisdiction of Anoka County. The character of the road is commercial on either end transitioning from the west to east to the Columbia City Hall location, then being lined with residential uses, and then reaching the commercial area again just west of Central Avenue. Buildings along the corridor in the commercial areas are generally smaller in size, some of which show signs of deferred maintenance. However, many of the buildings have architectural qualities that make them unique. Compared to the mix of commercial uses and the corporate architecture found in places like the northern section of Central Avenue, the 40th Avenue commercial area has a unique "vibe ", one that with some efforts to improve and expand existing buildings could yield an environment that provides opportunities for true local businesses that serve the community and the surrounding neighborhoods. The residential area along 40th Avenue is shown on the Future Land Use plan as being Transitional Development. This designation does not imply the eventual removal of residential uses but the potential on a limited basis to see some transition to small office or retail locations, particularly adjacent to the existing commercial areas at either end of the corridor. The evolution of uses along the 40" Avenue corridor will continue to ocur between now and 2040. Area C which encompasses the current Columbia Heights City Hall site is a potential candidate for change in a shorter term timeframe. The City is currently undertaking a study of City Hall to assess the options of relocating it to another site or rebuilding a new facility at the current location. 2.32 DRAFT Area 4 — University Avenue from 37th Avenue NE to 4oth Avenue NE Area 4 encompasses land on the west side of University Avenue between 40th Avenue NE to the Columbia Heights /Minneapolis border. This area is the only significant portion of land in Columbia Heights along University Avenue that has future redevelopment potential. Area 4 is located immediately across University from the Huset Park development area which is a very successful residential development. Properties immediately along University include a mix of underutilized parcels on the north and aging, smaller industrial sites to the south. Two concepts were offered for this area representing a differing mixes of uses and building placements. They included the following: Area 4 — Concept 1 'Auvi-Fwu RESjOE.N 11ft. E� 1 R This option includes a mix of new retail (or office) in the southwest corner of the intersection, multi - family housing west of the retail site and then mid - density townhomes to the south. To a degree, these uses would mirror those on the east side of University Avenue. DRAFT 2 -33 Area 4 — Concept 2 `- 40 1 1 This concept explores business uses for the overall area and no residential uses. This was a direct response to comments that focused on the need for added jobs in Columbia Heights, partially to offset those that were lost on the east side of University Avenue as part of the Huset Park redevelopment. One of the early ideas presented to the community was to establish a design theme based on the shipping containers that are frequently seen travelling along University to the rail yard in Minneapolis to the south. This area could be the home of a business park that would convert retired shipping containers into buildings. While that idea may not be mainstream in the Twin Cities, it has been done in other areas as shown in the photos to the left. In the future, redevelopment of this area could include a blending of the uses shown on each of the identified concepts. Accordingly, this area has been classified as a Transition District. 2-34 DRAF'r Area 4 - Guiding Principles Based on the two redevelopment concepts, the City has identified a series of guiding principles are intended to help inform any future redevelopment proposals. They include the following: » Establish a unique business location that provides employment opportunities for Columbia Heights residents and expands the City's tax base while also being open to possible new residential uses. » Consider establishing design guidelines that encourage this area to be a signature location, one that clearly differentiates itself from others in the marketplace. » Encourage "green" buildings, possibly including the use of recycled shipping containers as a building form. » Work with Metro Transit to ensure that the area has a high level of bus service. » Provide safe and convenient connections to area bikeways along and connecting to University Avenue. » Work with MN /DOT to enhance pedestrian safety at the intersection of University and 401h Avenue. » Ensure that landscaping and open space areas provide appropriate buffering between new business uses and existing residential uses to the west. » Allow a mix of "business' uses including offices, light assembly, restaurants, breweries /distilleries and other uses that provide significant employment. » Prohibit warehouses and similar uses with very low employee counts. PUBLIC FACILITIES Columbia Heights is a full service community, home to many facilities enjoyed and used by the public. It is also home to local institutional, recreational and municipal facilities and services. Each of these facilities does their part in providing the necessary services to support residents in the community and beyond. Most of the City's public facilities are identified on Figure 2 -4, the Public Facilities Map. DRAFT 2 -35 FIGURE 2 -4. PUBLIC FACILITIES MAP 2 -36 DRAFT PROTECTION OF SPECIAL RESOURCES The City must also identify plans and strategies within its Comprehensive Plan to protect special resources, including historic resources, solar access, and aggregate resources. The city does not contain aggregate resources; therefore only plans for solar access and historic resource protection are provided, HISTORIC PRESERVATION The preservation of a community's historic resources creates a meaningful connection with the past and helps frame the community's image today. The Historic Preservation Plan provides a framework for preserving and protecting the community's history. The success of the Historic Preservation Plan is dependent on citizens of Columbia Heights and their desire to preserve historically significant resources within the city. The City can support preservation of history within the community by creating a Heritage Preservation Commission; however the success of this implementation strategy is dependent on the support and involvement of the community. The area around Columbia Heights was first homesteaded in 1863 by John and Margaret Sullivan. By the 1870s, the area had a brick factory and stone quarry; however the area remained largely agricultural until the last decade of the century. When James J. Hill constructed a rail line through the area, a direct connection was provided to the Iron Range in northern Minnesota. In response, a steel mill was built in the early 18gos, and Columbia Heights anticipated becoming the "Pittsburgh of the West." Unfortunately, when the mill burned down in 1898 it was not reconstructed. In 1893, Thomas Lowry and his Minneapolis Improvement Company platted 95 acres of land for residential development in the area. Mr. Lowry promoted the community as a commuter suburb of Minneapolis, with residents traveling via his Central Avenue Electric Car Line and Electric Street Railroad. In an effort to develop the community and provide services for new residents, Mr. Lowry also encouraged retailers to locate in the community along the southern portion of Central Avenue. Incorporated in 1898; Columbia Heights is one of the oldest suburbs in the Twin Cities metropolitan area. While Columbia Heights has a fascinating history, the City does not maintain a formal record of historically significant structures or properties in the community. There are no structures or properties within Columbia Heights that are listed on the National Register of Historic Place, nor are there any structures or properties eligible for listing. Although the community does not have a Heritage Preservation Commission, the City maintains a list of videos documenting various elements of Columbia Heights cultural and historical events. In addition, both the Anoka County Historical Society and the Columbia Heights Public Library maintain local history collections. Other cultural and historically significant elements within the city include the acknowledgement and connection to Columbia Heights' Sister City of Lomianki, Poland, the construction of an Islamic worship center, 2 -37 and the establishment of the First Lutheran music series. Each of these cultural elements strengthens the diversity of Columbia Heights and provides opportunities to explore and enjoy other cultures present within the community. Historic Preservation Goals, Policies, and Implementation Strategies The following historic preservation goal has been developed for Columbia Heights. The goal includes numbered policies and bulleted implementation strategies that correspond to each of the policies. Goal: Preserve and maintain the community's unique historical and cultural elements. 1. Encourage the formation and success of a Heritage Preservation Commission. » The City will publicize the potential formation of a Heritage Preservation Commission. » The City will support the formation of a Heritage Preservation Committee and encourage resident interest. 2. Support the preparation of an inventory of historically significant structures and places in the community. » The City will create and maintain an inventory and map of historically and culturally significant structures, sites, and resources within the community. » The City will provide staff to assist the Heritage Preservation Commission in obtaining financial support for the preservation of historically significant structures and resources. 3. Establish standards for protection of historically significant structures and places. » The City will provide staff to assist the Heritage Preservation Commission with the development of standards and policies to protect and preserve the history of the community. » The City will amend the zoning ordinance to require review of construction activities that will alter historically significant structures or disturb historically significant places. SOLAR ACCESS Minnesota Statutes require that local governments in the Metropolitan Area include an element for protection and development of access to direct sunlight for solar energy systems in the Comprehensive Plan. The rationale for including this section is to assure the availability of direct sunlight to solar energy systems. According to the Metropolitan Council, "a major share of energy consumed in Minnesota is used for purposes that solar energy could well serve such as space heating and cooling, domestic hot water heating and low - temperature industrial processes. Collection of solar energy requires protection of a solar collector's skyspace. Solar skyspace is the portion of the sky that must be free of intervening trees or structures for a collector to receive unobstructed sunlight." According to 2 -38 the Minnesota Energy Agency, "simple flatplate collectors have the potential to supply one -half of Minnesota's space heating, cooling, water heating and low - temperature industrial process heat requirements." The gross solar generation potential and the gross solar rooftop generation potential for Columbia Heights are shown in Table 2 -4• These are based on Metropolitan Council calculations and on the solar map (Figure 2 -5)• The values shown are estimates of how much electricity could be generated using existing technology and assumptions on the efficiency of conversion. TABLE 2 -4. SOLAR GENERATION POTENTIAL The gross solar potential information shown on Figure 2 -5 was calculated by the Metropolitan Council. These potentials are expressed in megawatt hours per year (Mwh /yr), and represent gross totals. In other words, these calculations do not demonstrate the amount of solar likely to develop in Columbia Heights; instead the calculations estimate the total potential resource before removing areas unsuitable for solar development or other factors related to solar energy. FIGURE 2 -5. GROSS SOLAR POTENTIAL MAP DRAFT Eelent of mmen Map 1 �eRMpa' Gross Solar Potential (Wati-hour per Year) High : 1274384 Low: 900001 Sai.� r'mrm.0 avNar 9ps.ppCwen.neu.c �,�rt County Boundaries cry and rowneaip Boundaries . . vwdarme and open Deter Fealun s Bounce: University of Minnesota USpatiel 9latewde Solar Raelar 2 -39 Energy Conservation Goals, Policies, and Implementation Strategies The following energy conservation and solar access protection goals have been developed for Columbia Heights. Each goal includes numbered policies and bulleted implementation strategies that correspond to each of the policies. Goal: Guarantee access to direct sunlight for solar energy systems. 1. Protect solar collectors from shading by adjacent structures and /or landscaping. » The City will evaluate the feasibility of amending the zoning ordinance to allow building setbacks in residential areas to be varied in order to protect solar access and allow solar collection apparatuses within the setback areas. » The City will evaluate the feasibility of amending the zoning ordinance to allow building heights in residential districts to be varied in order to allow rooftop collectors. » The City will evaluate the feasibility of amending the zoning ordinance to require buildings to be aligned to take advantage of direct sunlight for solar energy systems. 2. Comply with the provisions of Minnesota Statutes 462.357 and 462.358, as may be amended. » The City will amend the zoning ordinance as needed to comply with the provisions of Minnesota Statues regarding the protection of solar access. Goal: Promote energy conservation throughout the community. 1. Encourage individual homeowners to implement energy conservation practices. IMPLEMENTATION The implementation of the Comprehensive Plan does not end with adoption. The City's official controls, the zoning ordinance and subdivision regulations, will ensure day to day monitoring and enforcement of the policy plan. The regulatory provisions of both ordinances, as revised, will provide a means of managing development in the city in a manner consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. The City's Capital Improvements Program (Appendix B) will enable needed improvements identified in the plan to be programmed and implemented in a timely and cost effective manner. The City must also pursue funding options for redevelopment project. Official Controls As part of the planning process, the City will evaluate its land use controls and consider amendments to existing ordinances to eliminate inconsistencies with the Comprehensive Plan, enhance performance standards, protect public and private investments, and to conform to mandatory State and Federal regulations. More on this can be found in the Implementation Chapter. 2 -4o DRAFT Redevelopment Resources There are a number of financial tools available to the City to pursue redevelopment efforts and other public improvements. The potential tools and a brief definition are provided in Appendix A. 2 -41 CHAPTER 4 ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS 4 -58 INTRODUCTION The City of Columbia Heights, its Economic Development Authority (EDA), and the community can help protect a strong local economy by creating and retaining desirable jobs which provide a decent standard of living for individuals and diversification of the local tax base. Since the city has long been fully developed, this effort includes looking at areas in need of upgrade, modernization, better utilization and in some cases, redevelopment. This chapter will outline the City's goals and policies with respect to economic competitiveness; provide an overview of the employment and economic conditions in Columbia Heights, and describe the districts where economic activity is concentrated. There are a variety of economic competitiveness tools and techniques that will be important for the City to be aware of and utilize when appropriate. These tools can benefit not only economic competitiveness measures, but redevelopment and housing as well. For that reason, all of the financial tools are assembled together in Appendix A. One of the first steps is to analyze the local economy to get an indication of how well the economy is performing. In order to achieve a better understanding of the economy, it is best to use more than one measure of economic size to adequately compare the economic competitiveness of the community as a whole (State of Minnesota or Metropolitan Area), and to compare it against other surrounding communities that face similar economic conditions that are often competitors for businesses. Economic Competitiveness Goals and Policies In an effort to improve and diversify the local tax base and increase jobs, the City has established various economic goals, policies and practical implementation steps. These goals, combined with the policy and implementation steps, will help provide direction for current and future policy leaders to create and sustain a strong local economy. Goal: Enhance the economic viability of the community. 1. Meet with existing businesses to understand needs and determine how the City may be able to supply assistance. 2. Develop a revolving loan fund to provide low interest loans for improvements of exterior facades, building structures, and other various aesthetic improvements. Goal: Promote the reinvestment of properties in commercial and industrial sectors. 1. Support and encourage activities promoted by the Chamber of Commerce and other merchants to attract visitors and shoppers to Columbia Heights. 2. Use fiscal tools to financially support expansion efforts. 3. Explore creating a grant program to provide funding for improvements of exterior facades, building structures, and other various aesthetic improvements. 4• Create a specific marketing and promotion effort for downtown with the intent of creating a unique and marketable identity for downtown. 5. Utilize the City's website, newsletter, newspaper and industry journals to market and promote opportunities for business growth and development in the city. 6. In order to provide businesses with superior long term access to employees and customers, redevelopment in key transit corridors should be designed with provisions to support existing transit service and flexibility to upgrade for known future transit service. 7. Identify federal and state programs that exist which could encourage economic competitiveness in Columbia Heights. 8. The City will consider the number and average wage rates of created jobs when deciding on the use of financial incentives for industrial uses in an effort to more fully utilize the higher skill sets of local workers. Goal: Provide a wide variety of employment opportunities within the community 1. Determine what industries will best fit specific opportunity sites and directly seek and motivate their interest. TOTAL EMPLOYMENT As a first ring suburb, Columbia Heights has long been a fully developed community and therefore lacks the vacant land that could result in significant employment growth. As illustrated in the information readily available below, employment in the city peaked at over 6,000 positions in 2000 but declined drastically in 2010 to between 3,000 and 4,000 positions. The Metropolitan Council projects employment will steadily grow by nearly 1,200 positions between 2010 and 2040. FIGURE 4 -1. EMPLOYMENT GROWTH (1990 -2040) Employment r11@I 6000 5000''. 4000 3000 2000 1000 n 1990 Source: Metropolitan Council 2000 2010 2020 * 2030 * 2040 * 4 -59 FIGURE 4 -2. EMPLOYMENT PER HOUSEHOLD 0990- 2040) 0.90 0.80 0.70 0.60 0.50 0.40 0.30 0.20 0.10 0.00 Jobs / Household 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 2040 Source: Metropolitan Council, HKGi TABLE 4 -1. COLUMBIA HEIGHTS EMPLOYMENT (1990- 2040) nn�� 1990 �I�Eimplloylrnent 4,536 2000 6,397 2010 3,484 2020 * 4,280 2030 * 4,440 2040 * 4,600 ' Projected Source: Metropolitan Council Columbia Heights' employment per household is less than half of the rate in the Metropolitan Area as a whole and indicates that the city is largely a bedroom community rather than a regionally significant employment center. As noted in Table 4 -2, over lo,000 residents of Columbia Heights work outside the community. While nearly 3,400 people commute to jobs in Columbia Heights from outside the city, the community continues to operate as a bedroom community to other areas in the Twin Cities. 4 -60 TABLE 4 -2. LABOR FORCE LIVING N COLUMBIA HEIGHTS Source: OntheMap, US Census TABLE 4 -3. LABOR FORCE EMPLOYED IN COLUMBIA HEIGHTS Labor Force Participants Living in Columbia Heights 10,497 Labor Force Participants Living and Working in Columbia Heights 432 Labor Force Participants Living in Columbia Heights, but Employed 1o,o65 Outside the City Source: OntheMap, US Census TABLE 4 -3. LABOR FORCE EMPLOYED IN COLUMBIA HEIGHTS Source: OntheMap, US Census When viewed against the other comparison cities (Figure 4 -3, Table 4 -4), Columbia Heights is near the bottom in employment per household, trailing all cities except Crystal. Columbia Heights' lack of employment is not the concern that it would be in many other communities because it is located immediately adjacent to the State's largest employment center, Minneapolis, and therefore local residents have a wide range of employment possibilities nearby. FIGURE 4 -3. EMPLOYMENT PER HOUSEHOLD Employment/ Household 2.50 2.00 Labor Force Participants Employed in Columbia Heights 3,789 Labor Force Participants Living and Working in Columbia Heights 432 Labor Force Participants Employed in Columbia Heights but Living 3,357 Outside the City Source: OntheMap, US Census When viewed against the other comparison cities (Figure 4 -3, Table 4 -4), Columbia Heights is near the bottom in employment per household, trailing all cities except Crystal. Columbia Heights' lack of employment is not the concern that it would be in many other communities because it is located immediately adjacent to the State's largest employment center, Minneapolis, and therefore local residents have a wide range of employment possibilities nearby. FIGURE 4 -3. EMPLOYMENT PER HOUSEHOLD Employment/ Household 2.50 2.00 1.50 1.00 0.50 ' I 0.00 i,m ql ko \�fi0e ado oti a Source: Metropolitan Council, HKGi 4 -61 TABLE 4 -4. EMPLOYMENT Columbia Heights PER Employment 4,280 HOUSEHOLD Households 8,155 (2016) Employment Household 0.52 Anoka 15,603 7,436 2.10 Brooklyn Center 12,916 11,042 1.17 Crystal 4,366 9,461 0.46 Fridley 22,947 11,578 1.98 New Brighton 10,030 9,378 1.07 New Hope 11,235 8,819 1.27 Richfield 17,295 15,173 1.14 Shoreview 11,030 10,964 1.01 South St. Paul 6,625 8,351 0.79 West St. Paul 8,070 8,975 0.90 White Bear Lake 12,451 10,366 1.20 Twin Cities (7- County Area) 1,704,360 1,192,467 1.43 State of Minnesota 2,931,513 2,185,172 1.34 Source: Metropolitan Council WAGES Given the relatively small size of the employment base in Columbia Heights, it is not surprising that the city lags the comparison cities in total annual wages, with approximately $150 million being paid to local workers each year (Figure 4 -4, Table 4 -5). FIGURE 4 -4. TOTAL ANNUAL WAGES (2016) Total Annual Wages $7,000,000,000 $6,000,000,000 $5,000,000,000 $4,000,000,000 $3,000,000,000 $2,000,000,000 $1,000,000,000 $0 _ , _ u. 1 w arr 1♦ Lea "ek Qe °o +fie ¢ �� L L 4 ,Z,° �$�,•¢a �Qyk �� S� °c wr �y ' ��a Source: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development 4 -62 DRAFT TABLE 4 -5. TOTAL ANNUAL WAGES (2016) Columbia Heights $150,146,781 Anoka $781,070,482 Brooklyn Center $6,323,144,646 Crystal $157,521,177 Fridley $1,702,729,550 Hopkins $790,369,399 New Brighton $555,487,213 New Hope $517,810,092 Richfield $1,279,497,896 Shoreview $710,624,024 South St. Paul $306,136,467 West St. Paul $286,791,368 White Bear Lake $543,789,198 Source: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development The average weekly wage goes beyond the total wage information and attempts to measure what is often referred to as "job quality ". Higher average weekly wages tend to support higher residential values as employees will pay more to locate near high quality jobs and bid up the local housing stock. Higher average weekly wages may also lead to more discretionary income and result in an increase of retail and service options in the community. However, since Columbia Heights is in close proximity to Minneapolis the quality of life of residents is less dependent on the wage generating capacity within the city limits as compared to other cities. Columbia Heights' average weekly wage is near the bottom of the comparison cities and 60% of the Metropolitan Area average (Table 4 -6, Figure 4 -5)• TABLE 4 -6. AVERAGE Columbia Heights WEEKLY WAGE (201 Average Weekly Wage $698 Anoka $988 Brooklyn Center $944 Crystal $685 Fridley $1,433 Hopkins $946 New Brighton $1,o69 New Hope $898 Richfield $1,429 Shoreview $1,196 South St. Paul $891 West St. Paul $677 White Bear Lake $865 Metropolitan Area $1,171 Minnesota $1,044 7J Source: Minnesota Demographic Center, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development DRAFT 6) 4 -63 FIGURE 4 -5. AVERAGE WEEKLY WAGE (2016) Average Weekly Wage $1,600 $1,400 $1,200 $1,000 $800 $600 $400 $200 $0 �y �m `tee ms A °�5 00 �,e �� e41 m�� may m�e gem aim e° � ��y F {° 1b ° c� Gfl�`Jfi� 100 v Source: Minnesota Demographic Center, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development EMPLOYER PROFILE Table 4 -7 lists the largest employers in Columbia Heights. This data source has limited analytical value because the information may be dated, part -time and full -time employment is often mixed, and companies are often resistant to providing updated information. However, it serves as a useful snapshot of where the major drivers of employment are occurring within the community. TABLE 4 -7. MAJOR EMPLOYERS IN COLUMBIA HEIGHTS Employer Medtronic 600 Pro Health Care 300 Columbia Heights school district 220 Crest View Lutheran Home 18o City of Columbia Hei hts 125 Fairview Clinics 120 Jeff Bobby & Steve's Auto World 1o6 Unique 75 Invest Cast Inc. 70 Sarna's Classic Grill 6o Global Academy Inc. 55 Savers 51 La Casita Mexican Restaurant 50 M E Global 50 US Post Office 50 Source: City of Columbia Heights 4 -64 DRAFT Employment by Industry Table 4 -8 and Figure 4 -6 present data on the distribution of jobs by industry and the change in the number of jobs by industry from 2007 to 2016. From the table and chart, it may be concluded that the employment base in Columbia Heights is about 8o% concentrated in the service industries. The top industries are Education and Health Services; Professional and Business Services; and Trade, Transportation and Utilities. Columbia Heights has experienced a broad based decline in employment across most sectors since 2007. The primary exceptions to this negative trend have been in Education and Health Services ( +23.3 0/o) and Public Administration ( +4.3' /-). One area of particular concern is the large decline in Professional and Business Services, which has been traditionally one of the highest paying service industry sectors. TABLE 4 -8. EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY 2007 AND 2016 Total, All Industries Jobs, Number of 2007 4,976 .. 2016 4,135 % Change -16.9% Goods - Producing Domain 973 432 -55.6% Construction 107 1o8 0.9% Manufacturing C 866 324 -62.6% Service- Producing Domain 4,005 3,559 -11.1% Trade, Transportation and Utilities * 910 552 -39.3% Professional and Business Services 905 590 -34.8% Education and Health Services 1,231 1,514 23.0% Leisure and Hospitality 570 561 -1.6% Other Services 178 122 -31.5% Public Administration 211 220 4.3% The job categories in 2007 broke out this category separately into Transportation and Utilities; Retail Trade; Information; and Financial Activities Source: Minnesota Department of Employment & Economic Development DRAFT 4 -65 FIGURE 4 -6. DISTRIBUTION OF EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY 2007 -2016 Employment by Industry 1,600 1,400 1,200 1,000 800 600 400 2000 6i i l { 1 E! `b or ea a 1 � ell �� re cry a 41 y� a� sJ Pa a��o bra acts aye �,��. �c�ry y�o�a aa`ac �e �`�av Ito ■ Number of Jobs, 2007 Number of Jobs, 2016 Source: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development Resident Employment The skill set of the residents of Columbia Heights is extremely broad and is fairly similar to the Metropolitan Area as a whole, as seen in Table 4 -9. This range of resident employment is likely the result of Columbia Heights' close proximity to the broad range of employment possibilities within Minneapolis and Anoka County. Columbia Heights residents are more likely than the Metropolitan average to work in the Manufacturing and Arts, entertainment, and recreation sectors and less likely to work in the Construction, Wholesale Trade, Transportation and Warehousing, and Finance and Insurance industries. Anoka County has the largest manufacturing sector in the Twin Cities and therefore represents a key employment draw for Columbia Heights and surrounding communities in this portion of the metropolitan area. 4 -66 TABLE 4 -9. RESIDENT EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY (2015) Columbia Heights Employed Residents Minneapolis Employed Residents Employed Residents Employed Residents Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, 17 0.2% 564 0.4% 1,103 o.6% 9,618 o.6% and mining Construction 473 4.7% 5,835 3.8% 12,695 6.9% 72,318 4.5% Manufacturing 1,423 14.1% 16,665 11.0% 31,082 16.8% 208,843 13.0% 3.2% 4,099 2.7% 5,087 2.7% 47,511 3.0% Wholesale trade 323 Retail trade 1,026 10.2% 13,843 9.1% 20,501 11.1% 175,584 10.9% Transportation and warehousing, and 538 5.3% 5,676 3.7% 9,884 5.3% 71,441 4.49/b utilities Information 189 1.9% 4,134 2.7% 2,983 1.6% 34,784 2.2% Finance and insurance, and real 556 5.5% 16,368 10.8% 14,435 7.8% 146,204 9.1% state and rental and leasing Professional, scientific, and management, and 1,184 11.8% 24,695 16.3% 17,879 9.7% 201,564 12.5% administrative and waste management services Educational services, and health care and 2,249 22.4% 33,910 22.4% 40,426 21.9% 376,551 23.4% social assistance Arts, entertainment, and recreation, and 1,150 11.4% 15,019 9.9% 13,822 7.5% 139,301 8.7% accommodation and food services Other services, except public 726 7.2% 6,413 4.2% 8,629 4.7% 71,723 4.5% administration Public administration 208 2.1% 4,431 2.9% 6,471 3.59/- 51,892 3.2% Total lo,o62 151,652 184,997 1,607,334 Source: US Census DRAFT 4 -67 HOUSEHOLD INCOME Columbia Heights residents generally lag the Metropolitan Area in household income, particularly in the percentage of residents with a household income above $75,000 per year (Figure 4 -7, Table 4 -10). Although the local economy does not provide a large number of high paying jobs within the city, those opportunities are in ample supply in close proximity within Downtown Minneapolis and throughout Anoka County. This income situation is therefore less likely to be an economic competitiveness problem and more a lack of suitable lifecycle housing options within the city. This forces residents to move outside of the city as their incomes rise. FIGURE 4 -7. MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2016) TABLE 4 -10. MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME Less than $15,000 Columbia Columbia Twin Cities Heights Heights O/o Metro Area 851 10.1% 114,055 Median Household Income, 2016 $15,000 - $24,999 922 25.0% 93,419 6.8% $25,000 - $34,999 1,000 11.9% 1,207 14.3% 1,819 21.6% 107,019 7.8% 20.0% 158,647 11.6% $50,000- $74,999 248,223 18.1% $75,000 - $99,999 15.0% 14.1% 196,247 14.3% $100,000- $149,999 1,033 220 12.3% 10.0% 18.o% $150,000 - $199,999 2.6% 103,396 7.6% $200,000+ 178 2.1% 101,162 7.4% 0.0% o °o rn rn a, M rn m rn m rn + ° rn rn m m C 0 m rn a rn ° o L ++ O O O O O O O Ln Ln Ln Ln J -Ln -Ln t4 -Ln +/? O Ln Vt -Ln Columbia Heights mq Twin Cities Metro Area TABLE 4 -10. MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME Less than $15,000 Columbia Columbia Twin Cities Heights Heights O/o Metro Area 851 10.1% 114,055 Metro O/o 8.3% $15,000 - $24,999 922 10.9% 93,419 6.8% $25,000 - $34,999 1,000 11.9% 1,207 14.3% 1,819 21.6% 107,019 7.8% $35,000 - $49,999 158,647 11.6% $50,000- $74,999 248,223 18.1% $75,000 - $99,999 1,191 14.1% 196,247 14.3% $100,000- $149,999 1,033 220 12.3% 246,o16 18.o% $150,000 - $199,999 2.6% 103,396 7.6% $200,000+ 178 2.1% 101,162 7.4% Source for Figure 4 -7 and 4 -io: ESRI 4 -68 DRAFT COMMUTE TIMES Table 4 -11 and Figure 4 -8 display commute times for employed Columbia Heights residents and Metro Area residents. From Figure 4 -8, it is possible to see a proximity advantage that the city has in relation to other communities in the Metropolitan Area. TABLE 4 -11. DAILY COMMUTE TIMES (2015) Less than 5 minutes 176 1.8% 38,569 2.2% 5 to 9 minutes 704 7.40/o 145,421 8.4% 10 to 14 minutes 903 9.5% 217,798 12.6% 15 to 19 minutes 1,675 17.5% 263,820 15.3% 20 to 24 minutes 2,224 23.3% 285,059 16.6% 25 to 29 minutes 812 8.5% 142,370 8.3% 30 to 34 minutes 1,658 17.4% 257,173 14.9% 35 to 39 minutes 3o8 3.2% 63,075 3.7% 40 to 44 minutes 255 2.7 % 77,276 4.5% 45 to 59 minutes 276 2.9% 135,863 7.9% 6o to 89 minutes 378 4.0% 72,644 4.2% go or more minutes 181 1.9% 22,949 1.3% Source: US Census (American Community Survey, 2015) FIGURE 4 -8. DAILY COMMUTE TIMES (2015) Daily Commute Times (2015) 25.0% 20.0% 15.0% 10.0% 5.0°% 0 0.0% �7{c' ,p'ti * gCO 1g 1� 0 O 1) -9 � -V 1 f Quo � t c ` QQ 4 � w Columbia Heights Metro Area Source: US Census (2015) DRAFT 4 -69 REAL ESTATE MARKET CONDITIONS The following provides a summary of market conditions in various sectors of the real estate market in Columbia Heights as of Summer 2016. This data does not constitute a formal market analysis, but instead provides context for the City's economic competitiveness planning going forward. Office Market Following the removal of a six -story office building at 4oth and Central from the local market, the city contains only 138,000 square feet of office space in 2016, according to CoStar. The office market in the city is relatively small compared to the broader metro market and contains fewer large scale tenants. Instead, office properties in Columbia Heights tend to include tenants focused on medical office uses, or the offices for small companies. As of Summer 2016, the City reported vacancy rates and lease rates for office properties on par with surrounding communities. 17zdustrial Market The industrial market in Columbia Heights is relatively small and has decreased in scale since 2000 as a number of formerly industrial properties converted into residential uses. As of 2016 the city contains around 132,000 square feet of industrial space. Vacancy rates and lease rates for this industrial space remain fairly similar to the metrics for the northern part of the metro area, for industrial space. Retail Market The stock of retail space in Columbia Heights includes primarily neighborhood - serving, local- oriented retail uses (including groceries, convenience retail, etc.). The city contains a number of aging areas of retail, particularly along Central Avenue. The prospect of the HyVee development along Central has the potential to strengthen the overall retail position of Columbia Heights. With the new HyVee and additional development, the city has the potential to attract retail sales dollars from Northeast Minneapolis and other adjoining, inner -ring suburbs. The city also has the opportunity to integrate newer restaurants and other local- serving retail along the redeveloping Central Avenue corridor, in order to strengthen its retail position. As of the end of 2016, the city contained just under 375,000 square feet of retail space. The vacancy rate for retail stood at 5 percent and the average lease rate, according to Costar, was just under $10 per square foot. Multi - Family Market The city has a significant pool of aging multi - family properties that have the potential to be rehabilitated and repositioned, going forward. The multi - family market is strong, in line with recent trends across the metro area. According to CoStar, the city had 1,465 multi - family units in 2016. The vacancy rate was only 3.2 percent, and average monthly rent, on a per square foot basis, has increased from $0.97 / SF in 2007 to $1.05 in 2016. The increase in rent has been less 4 -7o DRAFT dramatic in Columbia Heights as compared to other cities in the metro area. However, the presence of a significant pool of aging properties likely limits the degree to which landlords are able to increase rents in the city, compared to other communities that have newer multi - family developments. For -Sale Residential Market The Metropolitan Council estimates that Columbia Heights has 5,319 owner - occupied residential units. A total of 3,222 residential units sold in the city. This figure was obtained by using property tax records. While this information may reflect some homes that sold more than once over the last decade, the overall data indicate that around 60 percent of the homes in Columbia Heights have been sold to a new owner over the last ten years. In line with trends across the metro area, Columbia Heights has a limited inventory of for -sale homes available as of the end of 2016. Property values continue to rise as younger families are seeking out options to purchase in the community. According to the Minneapolis Area Association of Realtors, the median home price in Columbia Heights has increased from less than $200,000 in 2011 to nearly $250,000 in 2016. TABLE 4 -12. HOUSES SOLD Source: City of Columbia Heights TARGET MARKETS The previous analysis provides a view of the Columbia Heights economy at a broad level, but does not provide the level of detail that is necessary for determining how various sectors of the economy are performing and whether certain sectors should receive additional attention in local economic competitiveness efforts. In order to accomplish this task, the location quotient technique was used. In this location quotient analysis, the performance of Columbia Heights was compared to the broader activity in the Twin Cities metro area as of 2015. DRAFT 4 -71 Year 20o6 2007 Number of Houses Sold I 174 189 239 2oo8 2009 248 2010 209 2011 258 2012 315 2013 347 2014 339 2015 397 2o16 507 Total: 3,222 Source: City of Columbia Heights TARGET MARKETS The previous analysis provides a view of the Columbia Heights economy at a broad level, but does not provide the level of detail that is necessary for determining how various sectors of the economy are performing and whether certain sectors should receive additional attention in local economic competitiveness efforts. In order to accomplish this task, the location quotient technique was used. In this location quotient analysis, the performance of Columbia Heights was compared to the broader activity in the Twin Cities metro area as of 2015. DRAFT 4 -71 The location quotient technique compares the employment performance at the two digit North American Industrial Classification System ( NAICS) level. The NAICS framework classifies the nation's industries into major market sectors. Industry sectors that receive a location quotient above l.o are performing better than the metro economy and those that have a score below 1.o are lagging metro performance. For this analysis, industries scoring 1.25 or above are achieving above average performance, scores of .75 to 1.24 are achieving average performance and scores below .75 are achieving below average performance. Once the market sectors are analyzed, economic development agencies typically look at the sectors that are performing above and below average to attempt to determine some of the community's strengths and weaknesses. Actions are taken to ensure that competitive advantages are maintained and weaknesses are minimized. Actions are then focused and limited resources are targeted to those activities where the most benefit can be realized. Columbia Heights' top market sectors (Figure 4 -9) are Other Services (except public administration); Arts, Entertainment and Recreation; and Transportation and Warehousing, and Utilities. With the exception of Transportation, Warehousing, and Utilities, the other two sectors are all industries that benefit from being near large business areas but can survive without direct access to the interstate highways or railroads. In addition, these two sectors can survive on the relatively small average commercial lot size in the community. FIGURE 4 -9. LOCATION QUOTIENTS (2015) Location Quotient (2015) Public administration Other services, except public administration - Arts, entertainment, and recreation, and accommodation and food... Educational services, and health care and social assistance Professional, scientific, and management, and administrative and... Finance and insurance, and real state and rental and leasing Information - Transportation and warehousing, and utilities Retail trade Wholesale trade Manufacturing Construction Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, and mining 0.00 0.20 0.40 0.60 0.80 1.00 1.20 1.40 1.60 1.80 Source: US Census, HKGi Columbia Heights' worst performing sectors include industries that rely heavily on highway visibility (such Finance and Insurance). Two remaining lagging industries, Professional and Technical Services; and Information would be candidates for increased focus since they often prefer to be located in areas near, but not inside, large business areas. This ties with the recommendations made in the Anoka County Economic Development Roadmap Report, which indicated that Columbia Heights should explore 4 -72 locating back office operations (for medical device companies and call center) and data centers in the community. The primary difference with these industries is that they often require updated buildings, with access to reliable power and internet services and tend to seek out locations with moderate visibility and a "sense of place" with elevated amenities and character. Expansion of these industries would provide access to significantly higher wage jobs. The following table outlines the averages wages in Anoka County for different professions contained in the Professional and Technical Services category. TABLE 4 -13. WAGE RANGE FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Offices of Lawyers (NAICS 541110) $45,853 Title Abstract and Settlement Offices (NAICS 541191) $49,901 Offices of Certified Public Accountants (NAICS 541211) $44,937 Tax Preparation Services (NAICS 541213) $22,264 Other Accounting Services (NAICS 541219) $41,489 Engineering Services (NAICS 541330) $79,174 Testing Laboratories (NAICS 541380) $59,315 Custom Computer Programming Services (NAICS 541511) 1 $90,888 Computer Systems Design Services (NAICS 541512) E $81,170 Other Computer Related Services (NAICS 541519) V $51,364 Administrative Management and General Management Consulting Services (NAICS I $56,424 541611) Environmental Consulting Services (NAICS 541620) I $72,315 Other Scientific and Technical Consulting Services (NAICS 541690) I $50,645 Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except $100,376 Biotechnology) (NAICS 541712) — Photography Studios, Portrait (NAICS 541921) $22,503 Veterinary Services (NAICS 541940) $35,239 All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services (NAICS 541990) $30,289 DRAFT 4 -73 ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS ADVANTAGES AND CHALLENGES Columbia Heights has advantages that it can capitalize on in its economic competitiveness efforts. The first is proximity to the large business areas in the central cities. Columbia Heights' location makes it extremely convenient for companies and "back- office" operations that support the larger businesses downtown but want the lower costs, convenience of parking and simplicity of access found in more remote suburban markets. This advantage could be increasing in importance as the economy adjusts to a long term reality of more expensive transportation costs. Proximity is also a challenge to economic competitiveness as Columbia Heights must carve out a market niche in an extremely competitive environment. It must compete not only with other first ring suburbs, but at times, the central cities themselves. In order to be competitive and preserve scarce resources, it will be important for the City to focus its economic competitiveness efforts in targeted areas and industries. A key challenge facing Columbia Heights - as well as Anoka County and region - is securing sufficient talent and employees for local companies. The labor market is very tight across Minnesota, and attracting and retaining talent remains a key issue for most communities. A report prepared for Anoka County in December, 2017, entitled the "Economic Development Business Recruitment and Roadmap ", highlights the challenges that municipalities in the county face in attracting and retaining talent. The second primary advantage is history. Columbia Heights still has a supply of old commercial structures, particularly along Central Avenue. On the one hand, this presents a challenge, due to natural decline and functional obsolescence however, when managed carefully, retention, upgrading and reuse of older commercial structures can provide a sense of character and quality that cannot be replicated through redevelopment efforts alone and are not commonly found in other nearby suburban communities. Older structures are also more likely to attract unique "Mom and Pop" uses, such as artists, neighborhood coffee shops, antique stores, restaurants, nightclubs, etc. that are critical to establishing Columbia Heights as a destination and pull traffic off of the interstate highway system or out from Minneapolis. Merging redevelopment with maintenance and upgrading of older structures can take a significant commitment of leadership and partnership between the private and public sectors. Columbia Heights has taken many positive steps to maintain its competitiveness. Development and redevelopment in recent years has had a higher level of aesthetic quality than has previously been experienced in the community and public streetscape enhancements along the southern half of Central Avenue have started to improve the image and character of this commercial district. Further efforts in this area will assist the City in establishing a positive image and promoting Columbia Heights as a destination. 4 -74 DRAFT The City also faces several challenges to maintaining a strong economy. The first is that the city doesn't have locations that have superior access to the interstate highway or rail systems. This limits the amount and types of commercial and industrial development that can occur within the city and also makes an area like northern portion of Central Avenue dependent on the vitality of a commercial area in an adjacent community. North Central Avenue faces an additional identity challenge because it is not readily apparent whether someone is in Columbia Heights, Fridley or Hilltop and this limits Columbia Heights' ability to be a destination location. In the industrial market, Columbia Heights' historical land use pattern has exacerbated this situation because most industrially zoned property does not have access and visibility onto a major roadway but rather sits in scattered pockets that are often accessed via local, residential streets. The ideal industrial user is therefore limited to a small business that does not require much in the way of visibility or access and generates few impacts on the surrounding residential neighborhoods. By promoting its advantages and being conscious of its challenges, Columbia Heights has an opportunity to further develop its quality of place which is critical to position itself as a destination location. Communities that do not have an ability to compete with others on interstate highway convenience need to provide outsiders with a reason to venture a bit further to discover their economic assets. Establishing a community as a destination location can have spinoff efforts as well. Communities with a high quality of life capture a greater portion of the talents of its local population because residents seek to find employment within the community in which they reside, even if they must become an entrepreneur to do it. Businesses overlook minor location disadvantages because of the high quality of life, particularly in some high technology and financial service sectors. Finally, the establishment of a few high quality developments forces other development within the community to upgrade its own level of quality to remain competitive with the new community standard. DEVELOPMENT TOOLS As mentioned earlier in this chapter there is numerous development and redevelopment tools that are available to the City. Many of the tools can benefit not only economic competitiveness, but also redevelopment and housing. Using these tools can help achieve the future vision for Columbia Heights in areas where market forces alone will not be sufficient. State law provides a broad array of powers and tools that may assist the City in these initiatives. Appendix A has been created to provide one single source for all the development tools currently available to the City. This information is designed as a point of reference in continued economic competitiveness planning. DRAFT 4 -75 4 -76 DRAFT Work Session Item 2 COLUMBIA HEIGHTS i S FIDE DEPARTMENT City of Columbia Heights I Fire Department 825 415` Avenue NE, Columbia Heights, MN 55421 ■ Ph: 763 - 706 -8150 • Fax: 763 - 706 -8151 Email: fire @columbiaheightsmn.gov • www.columbiaheightsmn.gov MEMO TO: WALT FEHST, CITY MANAGER FROM: GARY GORMAN, FIRE CHIEF SUBJECT: SNOW REMOVAL DATE: 2/1/2018 The City has an ordinance that addresses snow and ice removal from sidewalks. It falls under section 8.204 of the Public Nuisance chapter. The ordinance requires that snow is to be removed within 24 hours of the end of a snowfall. To prepare our commercial properties the Fire Department sends out a reminder letter of snow removal responsibilities to all commercial properties each fall. Generally, most properties comply within a reasonable amount of time. If we find that a property is not complying the property is posted for the violation. They have 48 hours to remove the snow. If this is not done, the City will send out a contractor to make the correction, and the cost, including an administrative fee is billed to the property. Any property found in violation, that has previously had snow removed by the City's contractor, will be automatically forwarded to the contractor without posting the property. We will also attempt to proactively address violations when noted. There are other factors that weigh into our enforcement. For example, the amount of snow, when it fell, and current weather conditions and forecast. I will be happy to discuss all of this in more depth at the Council Work Session.