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01-02-2024 City Council Work Session Packet
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION Mayor Amáda Márquez Simula Councilmembers Connie Buesgens Kt Jacobs Rachel James Justice Spriggs Interim City Manager Kevin Hansen City Hall—Shared Vision Room, 3989 Central Ave NE Tuesday, January 02, 2024 6:00 PM AGENDA ATTENDANCE INFORMATION FOR THE PUBLIC Members of the public who wish to attend may do so in -person, or by using Microsoft Teams and entering meeting ID 278 254 427 462 and passcode pfepBS. Auxiliary aids or other accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request when the request is made at least 72 hours in advance. Please contact Administration at 763-706-3610 to make arrangements CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL WORK SESSION ITEMS 1. Authorize Purchase of Phoenix G-2 Alerting System (15 Minutes) 2. Xcel Energy Partners in Energy (15 Minutes) 3. IT Department Update (30 Minutes) Sciens Strategic Technology Plan (Update) Comcast Update USI Status 4. Lobbyist: Eyes on Session (15 Minutes) MSC Building Bonding City Hall Sales Tax Refund Park Application 5. Designation of Legal Newspaper for 2024. (5 Minutes) 6. Council Liaison Board and Commission Appointments for 2024. (10 Minutes) 7. Select Date for 2024 Local Board of Appeal & Equalization Meeting. (5 Minutes) 8. Council Corner. (15 Minutes) 9. Review 2024 Council Schedule (10 Minutes) 10. Executive Session: Discuss Property Acquisition of PIN: 35 -30-24-43-0018 (30 Minutes) 1 City of Columbia Heights AGENDA January 02, 2024 City Council Work Session Page 2 ATTENDANCE INFORMATION: Move to recess to Closed Session pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Section 13D.05, subdivision 3(b), members of the public will not be able to attend. For questions regarding this notice, please contact City Administration at 763.706.3610. ADJOURNMENT Auxiliary aids or other accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request when the request is made at least 72 hours in advance. Please contact Administration at 763-706-3610 to make arrangements. 2 ITEM: Authorize the purchase of a station alerting system (PHOENIX G-2 ALERTING SYSTEM) along with installation expenses for implementation within the Fire Department. DEPARTMENT: Fire BY/DATE: Charlie Thompson / January 2, 2024 CORE CITY STRATEGIES: (please indicate areas that apply by adding an “X” in front of the selected text below) _Healthy and Safe Community _Equitable, Diverse, Inclusive, and Friendly X Trusted and Engaged Leadership _Thriving and Vibrant Destination Community X Strong Infrastructure and Public Services _Sustainable BACKGROUND: On October 2, 2023, the Fire Department submitted its 2024 budget to the City Council. Within the Capital segment of the budget, the fire chief recommended the inclusion of a station alerting system for the upcoming fiscal year. The existing alerting system utilizes a pager wired to speakers in the station, but it has proven unreliable on numerous occasions and was not originally designed for consistent and effective call alerts. Consequently, the fire department personnel conducted thorough research to explore alternative options that would ensure a dependable method for alerting staff during call transmissions. SUMMARY OF CURRENT STATUS: The Pheonix G2 Alerting System is recognized as the most dependable and secure system currently available in the market. The advantages of the Pheonix G2 Alerting system extend from the dispatch center to our residences. The Anoka County Dispatch Center is already equipped with the capabilities to support the Pheonix G2 Alerting System. In the event of an incident, the G2 communications gateway receives alert data swiftly from a dispatcher using CAD and the USDD interactive web-based interface. This streamlined process, facilitated by a high-speed network, reduces dispatch processing time, allowing fire stations to receive alerts and information in less than a second. Within the fire station, the Pheonix G2 system seamlessly integrates crystal-clear text-to-speech technology along with high-contrast message signs and LED lighting. These features enable emergency responders to respond promptly and efficiently to every call. Dispatcher Benefits: Speed. Delivers automatic dispatch alerts simultaneously t o one or multiple stations in less than a second. This helps to reduce and/or eliminate dispatcher “on -hold” time. Wellness. Dispatches alerts to fire stations automatically, thereby reducing dispatcher stress and workload. This frees up dispatchers to communicate with callers and manage the dispatch process more successfully. High reliability. Offers dispatchers a redundant system to communicate alerts if the computer -aided dispatch (CAD) system fails. Situational awareness. Reviews the success of alerts as they are sent. It also monitors the status of the system in real time. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION MEETING AGENDA SECTION WORK SESSION ITEM MEETING DATE JANUARY 2, 2024 3 Item 1. City of Columbia Heights - Council Letter Page 2 First Responder Benefits: Preparedness. Increases situational awareness and mental preparedness by using clear, consistent station alerting vocals. This helps first responder units respond more quickly and efficiently. Wellness. Reduces cardiac stress, anxiety, optical shock, and sleep deprivation. The ramped tones and zoned alerting only notify required personnel and responding units. Benefits for Public Safety Administrators and City Officials: Compliance. Helps stations shave valuable seconds—even minutes—off of response times, helping meet or exceed NFPA 1710 recommendations. Safety and redundancy. Reduces the chance of missing emergency calls during grid or power failures, thanks to multiple pathway options and a backup power supply. Communication. Keeps personnel advised of ongoing incidents via USDD’s industry-leading fire station alerting smartphone app, SMS text, pager, and email alerts. Value. Reduces customer maintenance and management costs by integrating a reliable, proven system. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Authorize the fire department to purchase a Phoenix G-2 system, inclusive of installation by US Digital Designs, with a budget limit set at $75,000. RECOMMENDED MOTION(S): MOTION: Authorize the Fire Department to enter into an agreement for the purchase and installation of the Phoenix G-2 alerting system from US Digital designs at a cost not to exceed $75,000. ATTACHMENT(S): 4 Item 1. ITEM: Xcel Energy Partners in Energy DEPARTMENT: Community Development BY/DATE: Andrew Boucher – City Planner CORE CITY STRATEGIES: (please indicate areas that apply by adding an “X” in front of the selected text below) _Healthy and Safe Community _Equitable, Diverse, Inclusive, and Friendly _Trusted and Engaged Leadership _Thriving and Vibrant Destination Community X Strong Infrastructure and Public Services X Sustainable BACKGROUND Xcel Energy Partners in Energy provides communities in Colorado, Minnesota, and Wisconsin services through a two-year commitment to develop an energy plan and assistance with implementing that plan , understanding a community’s unique energy needs and priorities, and tailors its services to complement each community’s vision. By working with citizens, businesses, and even their own government facilities, a community can shave dollars off utility bills, promote renewables, drive resource conservation or contribute toward greenhouse gas reduction goals. Partners in Energy helps address the challenge of identifying local priorities and then structures a path that leverages all resources available. The Energy Action Planning application describes how Partners in Energy helps gather stakeholders to develop and implement energy action plans to address local energy challenges and priorities with actionable and equitable strategies and resources. If the City is accepted as a community, there will be a scoping meeting to help determine the pathway that best aligns with the community’s interests and capabilities. This program is offered at no cost to participant communities with the expectation that Xcel Energy provides staff and financial resources during the planning and implementation phasis as well as the City/community provides staff time and financial support to implement strategies. Once accepted into the Partners in Energy program, Xcel Energy will organize preliminary kickoff meetings to build the framework to launch energy action planning workshops. Anticipate six to eight weeks for preparation, and 20 to 26 weeks for development of the plan. Following the plan development, the City will collaborate for 18 months to implement the strategies. The plan will outline actionable strategies that may include promotional outreach, education, events, PR to help guide the project implementation and bring tools and resources to help overcome implementation barriers. Ideally, a champion from the community will be identified who will help smooth the process of developing an Energy Action Plan and rolling out implementation. Community engagement specialists will help lead workshops and empower the team with resources and energy expertise. Over the first six months of working together to develop the action plan, it may require up to 100 hours of time from your Partners in Energy champion. A group of local participants will need to be identified and get involved in developing the plan. COUNCIL WORK SESSION AGENDA SECTION NEW BUSINESS MEETING DATE JANUARY 2, 2024 5 Item 2. City of Columbia Heights - Council Letter Page 2 Throughout the planning and implementation, they will leverage the City’s existing communications channels, such as city website, social media, press media, newsletters, or cable channels. Xcel Energy resources are there to support and provide tools and help throughout the process—but it is the community that owns the plan. The program also serves as an Inflation Reduction Act resource for residents, businesses, local governments, nonprofit and faith-based organizations, and tribes to access individual and business tax credits, residential rebates, grants for the creation of new programs and projects, and direct pay tax credits for local governments to access for clean energy, commercial clean vehicles, alternative fuel infrastructure, etc. Other areas of focus include building efficiency, electrification, renewable energy, and EV fleet and charging infrastructure. The City of St. Louis Park utilized the program to create their Climate Champions program, which offer s cost-sharing for different buildings in their community (e.g. business, multifamily, and residential) to support energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Council approve the Partners in Energy application at the January 8, 2024, City Council meeting. ATTACHMENT(S): Partners in Energy Application Information Sheet Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 6 Item 2. Community Logo Placeholder An Energy Action Plan for City of Coon Rapids December 2022 7 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan i ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Thank you to the following individuals who contributed many hours of service to developing this Energy Action Plan. The content of this plan is derived from a series of planning workshops hosted by Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy. Xcel Energy is one of two electric utilities serving Coon Rapids. Partners in Energy is a two-year collaboration to develop and implement a community’s energy goals. For more information about the planning workshops, see Appendix C: Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy Planning Process. Energy Action Team Olivia Dorow Hovland Sustainability Planner, City of Coon Rapids Kari Rehrauer Coon Rapids City Councilmember Jennifer Geisler Coon Rapids City Councilmember Stacee Demmer Coon Rapids Sustainability Commissioner Lisa Becker Anoka-Ramsey Community College Sustainability Co-Chair Greg Cole Anoka Hennepin School District Chief Operations Officer Dzevad Mahmutovic Coon Rapids Facilities Manager Jennifer Sweeney Connexus Energy Account Manager Dee Ann Christensen LWV ABC member and Coon Rapids Regenerative Task Force Kat Knudson CenterPoint Energy Marketing Product Manager Avery Davis Coon Rapids High School Student and Cardinal Earth Club Member Peter Turok Anoka Area Chamber of Commerce President Aaron Staehnke Mercy Hospital Facilities Engineering Manager Partners in Energy Team Deirdre Coleman Partners in Energy Community Facilitator Megan Weck Partners in Energy Community Facilitator Kelsey Poljacik Partners in Energy Community Facilitator Tami Gunderzik Program Manager, Xcel Energy's Partners in Energy Ashley Haung Marketing Coordinator, Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy Scott Johnson Community Relations Manager, Xcel Energy Adam Burr Account Manager, Xcel Energy 8 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan ii This Energy Action Plan was funded by and developed in collaboration with Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy. Partners in Energy shall not be responsible for any content, analysis, or results if the City of Coon Rapids has made modifications to the plan. 9 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan iii TABLE OF CONTENTS Acknowledgements ...................................................................................................................... i Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 1 Why An Energy Action Plan ................................................................................................... 1 Our Engagement & Outreach Process ................................................................................... 2 Existing Coon Rapids Sustainability Initiatives ....................................................................... 2 Current Energy Initiatives ................................................................................................... 2 Current Water and Environmental Initiatives ....................................................................... 3 Where We Are Now ................................................................................................................... 4 Community Demographics ................................................................................................. 4 Grid Energy Use ................................................................................................................. 5 Energy Burden ................................................................................................................... 6 Energy Costs ...................................................................................................................... 6 Greenhouse Gas Emissions ............................................................................................... 7 Renewable Energy ............................................................................................................. 7 Program Participation & Savings ........................................................................................ 8 Electric Vehicles and Charging Infrastructure ....................................................................11 Community Assets ............................................................................................................12 Where We Are Going ................................................................................................................13 Energy Vision Statement .......................................................................................................13 Focus Areas ..........................................................................................................................13 Community Energy Goal .......................................................................................................14 How We Are Going To Get There .............................................................................................16 Strategy Overview .................................................................................................................16 Timeline and Priorities ...........................................................................................................16 Focus Area: Energy Efficiency ..............................................................................................18 Focus Area: Renewable Energy ............................................................................................22 How We Stay On Course ..........................................................................................................25 Data and Reporting ...............................................................................................................25 Project Management and Tracking ........................................................................................25 Roles and Responsibilities ....................................................................................................26 City of Coon Rapids ..........................................................................................................26 Energy Action Team ..........................................................................................................26 Xcel Energy .......................................................................................................................26 10 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan iv Appendix A: Implementation Work Plan ....................................................................................27 Appendix B: Methodology for Measuring Success ....................................................................30 Community Goal ...................................................................................................................30 Assumptions ......................................................................................................................30 Measuring Energy Savings ................................................................................................31 Measuring Renewable Energy Emissions Avoided ............................................................31 Measuring Energy Costs Avoided .....................................................................................32 Appendix C: Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy Planning Process .............................................33 About Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy ................................................................................33 Plan Development Process ...................................................................................................33 Appendix D: Glossary of Terms ................................................................................................36 Appendix E: Implementation Memorandum of Understanding ...................................................38 11 Item 2. 12 Item 2. 13 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 1 INTRODUCTION Coon Rapids is a rapidly diversifying city in the northern suburbs of the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area. Its residents choose Coon Rapids because of its affordability, wide array of services, and accessibility to the metro area. The city is part of Anoka County and is known for its location along the Mississippi River with access to transportation corridors and commuter rails. It is also a welcoming community to residents, businesses, industry, and visitors, and home to a large community college, hospital, and a plethora of regional parks. Homes in Coon Rapids were largely built before 2000, thus are not as energy efficient as more recent versions of the building code require. Having multiple census tracts that meet the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency's definition of "areas of environmental justice concern" means that increasing energy efficiency and access to programs for these residents will reduce the cost-burden that some experience from utility bills and will increase resident retention. The broader community will also benefit from access to programs and services to become more energy efficient. Coon Rapids has made progress toward increasing energy savings and renewable energy support and preparing for electric vehicle adoption. With this Energy Action Plan, Coon Rapids will continue to lead the charge for greenhouse gas emission reductions and avoidance. The City will provide residential programs to increase home efficiency and business programs to fund energy projects and technology advances, while offering additional renewable energy options to community members. Why An Energy Action Plan Coon Rapids is increasingly interested in integrating sustainability across the community. The City has had a Sustainability Commission for more than a decade and hired a new Sustainability Planner in 2021. However, Coon Rapids lacked a planning document to focus and direct energy-related work. An Energy Action Plan will help guide city staff and the Sustainability Commission in using energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives to decrease community-wide emissions. 14 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 2 The City identified Partners in Energy as a resource that could provide support to develop a plan while unifying city staff, elected officials, residents, and the commission around a common goal. This would further cement sustainability as a shared focus area for everyone in Coon Rapids. A glossary of energy terminology is available in Appendix D for reference when reading this plan. The following are the most frequently used energy terms in this plan. Greenhouse Gases (GHG): Gases in the atmosphere that absorb and emit radiation and significantly contribute to climate change. The primary greenhouse gases in the earth's atmosphere are water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide and ozone. Metric Tons of Carbon Dioxide Equivalent (MTCO2e): A unit of measure for greenhouse gas emissions. The unit "CO2e" represents an amount of a greenhouse gas whose atmospheric impact has been standardized to that of one unit mass of carbon dioxide (CO2), based on the global warming potential (GWP) of the gas. Therm (thm): A unit of natural gas consumption. Kilowatt-hour (kWh): A unit of electricity consumption. Premise: A unique combination of service address and meter. For residential customers, this is the equivalent of an individual house or a dwelling unit in a multi-tenant building. For business customers, it is an individual business, or for a larger business, a separately metered portion of the business’s load at that address. Equity: The principle of being just, impartial, and fair. In this plan, equity means that residents have equal access, influence, or outcomes of the actions in this document. Our Engagement & Outreach Process The creation of this Energy Action Plan was a six-month process to help the community characterize its energy use, identify energy-related goals, and develop engaging strategies to guide change toward Coon Rapids’ energy future. Starting in March 2022, the Energy Action Plan was informed by a series of planning workshops held in the community with a planning team committed to representing local energy priorities in collaboration with City of Coon Rapids and Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy. By the numbers, three energy utilities, 20 community representatives and additional Coon Rapids staff completed five surveys and attended five workshops. See Appendix for more information about the planning process and Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy program. Existing Coon Rapids Sustainability Initiatives The City of Coon Rapids has demonstrated a commitment to energy and sustainability through current efforts, including city-wide programs and ordinance updates. Current Energy Initiatives ▪ Sustainability Commission (Formed in 2009) ▪ Step 5 – GreenStep City ▪ Green Homes Program: Home energy efficiency incentives program (subsidizes home energy assessments and matches utility rebates) ▪ Intercity Home Energy Squad Challenge® participant ▪ B3 Benchmarking for all city buildings 15 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 3 ▪ Renewable energy ordinance in place ▪ SolSmart silver city ▪ Community Sustainability Partnership Recognition Program ▪ EV chargers at the Civic Center and Ice Arena ▪ Energy efficiency measures at municipal facilities Current Water and Environmental Initiatives • Recycling Center • Organics composting at the Recycling Center • Tree City USA – annual recognition • Annual Tree Sale • Native prairie installations at 17 city parks • Summer watering restrictions ▪ Protecting pollinators – education and information • Smart irrigation controller discount for residents 16 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 4 WHERE WE ARE NOW An integral part of the Partners in Energy planning process is reviewing historic energy data to inform our community’s energy baseline. Xcel Energy provided a three-year baseline (2019– 2021) for data on energy use, program participation counts, and utility program energy conservation program savings for Coon Rapids, as detailed in the following sections. Connexus Energy, Coon Rapids’ other electric utility, and CenterPoint Energy, Coon Rapids’ natural gas utility, also provided consumption and program participation data for the same time period. Community Demographics Coon Rapids’ demographic data from the American Community Survey provides a helpful perspective and context to how the community uses energy. The population of Coon Rapids is sizeable at 62,700 people, with the median age at 39 years old. The median household income is $76,200 and the poverty rate is similar to the state average of 6%, which in Coon Rapids is nearly 3,800 people. Of the 24,600 housing units, almost 90% were built before the year 2000 and were subject to outdated energy codes, which presents an opportunity to improve energy efficiency. See Figure 1 for Coon Rapids’ demographic snapshot. Figure 1: Coon Rapids demographics 17 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 5 Grid Energy Use Xcel Energy provides electricity to Coon Rapids and serves approximately one-third of the premises in Coon Rapids. The remainder of the community is served by Connexus Energy Cooperative for electricity Figure 2). All residents and business in Coon Rapids are served by CenterPoint Energy for natural gas. Coon Rapids consists of 26,300 distinct premises. For residential customers, a premise is the equivalent of an individual house or dwelling unit in a multi-family building. For business customers, a premise is an individual business or for a larger business, a separately metered portion of the business’ load at that address. Most of Coon Rapids’ premises are residential (Figure 3). On average, the Coon Rapids community consumes 412 million kWh of electricity (including both Xcel Energy and Connexus Energy) and 28 million therms of natural gas across all sectors per year. The commercial and industrial sector comprises only 7% of premises, but accounts for 44% of total energy consumption. The municipal sector makes up 1% of premises and consumes 1% of total energy in Coon Rapids (Figure 4). Figure 4: Average annual energy consumption by sector for all utilities, 2019–2021 Figure 2: Coon Rapids electric utility service territory map Figure 3: Coon Rapids premise counts by sector 18 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 6 Energy Burden Energy burden is defined as the percentage of gross household income spent on energy bills. The average Minnesota household spends 2% of their gross income on energy bills. A household has a high energy burden when they spend more than 6% of their income on energy. In Coon Rapids, 1% of residents experience high energy burden. Most of the residents experiencing high energy burden earn less than 30% of the Area Median Income (AMI). At over 600 residents, this represents a significant number of people in the community (Figure 5). Figure 5: Coon Rapids’ energy burden for homeowners and renters Source: Low-Income Energy Affordability Data (LEAD) Tool, Energy.gov Energy Costs Across the baseline period, all premises in Coon Rapids spent an estimated $72 million annually on energy for both electricity and natural gas from Xcel Energy and CenterPoint Energy utilities (Figure 6). Almost three- quarters of that was spent on electricity (Figure 7). The average residential premise spends an average of $1,700 annually on electricity and natural gas.1 While costs fluctuate greatly for commercial and industrial premises based on size and industry, on average these premises spend $15,400 on energy each year. 1 Xcel Energy and CenterPoint Energy cost estimate averages from baseline years (2019-2021). 6% 2%2% 1%1% 4% 2% 1%1%1% 0% 1% 2% 3% 4% 5% 6% 7% $0 - $22.850 $23,000 - $46,000 $46,000 - $61,000 $61,000 - $76,000 $76,000+ Pe r c e n t o f g r o s s h o u s e h o l d in c o m e s p e n t o n e n e r g y Household Income Level Energy Burden Owner-occupied Renter-occupied Figure 6: Annual averages of dollars spent on energy (Xcel Energy and CenterPoint Energy utilities) in Coon Rapids by sector, 2019–2021 19 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 7 Figure 7: Average annual energy costs for Xcel Energy and CenterPoint Energy utilities by sector, 2019– 2021 Sector Xcel Energy Electricity Costs CenterPoint Energy Natural Gas Costs Costs Per Premise Residential $27 million $15 million $1,700 Commercial & Industrial $23 million $5.8 million $15,400 Municipal $1.1 million $174,000 $7,800 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Annual energy-related greenhouse gas emissions in Coon Rapids amount to 268,000 MTCO2e. Emissions trended down over the three-year baseline, with the commercial and industrial sector’s emissions decreasing while residential sector emissions stayed relatively flat (Figure 8). This could be attributed to the impacts of Minnesota State shutdown orders in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 health pandemic, when businesses closed and operations changed. Renewable Energy Renewable energy use is a result of both customer subscription programs and on-site installations. Subscription programs are an agreement between the customer and utility (or third party in the case of community solar) to purchase a certain amount of renewable energy at regular intervals to cover an amount of electricity. Community solar gardens offer an option for customers to enter into an agreement with a third-party vendor that has a solar garden to generate electricity that they can purchase to power their home or business. On-site installations involve installing equipment at the premise, such as solar panels on a home or business. Figure 8: Greenhouse gas emissions trends, 2019–2021 20 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 8 Far more residential Xcel Energy customers than commercial and industrial customers support renewable energy, but the total annual electricity subscribed to renewable energy is more than five times as high in the commercial and industrial sector (Figure 9). Although we don’t have the same granular data for Connexus Energy programs, we can assume the same trend occurs in that territory. Similarly, Xcel Energy’s community solar garden program has the most participation in the commercial and industrial sector resulting in 3.4 million kWh of energy subscribed. In the residential sector, Xcel Energy subscription programs have the most participation, resulting in 880,000 kWh subscribed (Figure 9). The data that we have for Connexus Energy’s renewable energy programs (Figure 10) is a combination of residential and commercial/industrial subscription programs (outside of community solar) that would add 41,000 kWh. Figure 9: Coon Rapids renewable energy program participation, 2021 (Xcel Energy) Xcel Energy Residential Commercial & Industrial Subscription Programs - Windsource® & Renewable*Connect® Subscriber Count 376 3 Total Annual Electricity Subscribed (kWh) 860,000 2,143,000 Percent of Sector Xcel Energy Electricity Use 1.6% 2.0% Community Solar Gardens - Solar*Rewards Community® Subscriber Count 4 7 Total Annual Electricity Subscribed (kWh) 18,700 3,405,000 On-Site - Solar*Rewards® Subscriber Count 5 2 Total Xcel Energy Renewable Energy Support Subscriber Count 385 12 Total Annual Electricity Subscribed (kWh) 878,700 5,548,000 Figure 10: Coon Rapids renewable energy program participation, 2021 (Connexus Energy) Connexus Energy Subscribers kWh Renewable Energy Subscription Program 63 41,300 SolarWise™ Solar Garden 54 - On-Site Metered Net Energy 46 - Program Participation & Savings Coon Rapids residents currently rely on a few key programs from Xcel Energy and Connexus Energy to help them improve efficiency. The top programs for residents in Xcel Energy territory are Residential Heating and Cooling, Smart Thermostat, and Refrigerator Recycling. Residential program participation saves Coon Rapids’ Xcel Energy customers an average of 145,800 kWh per year (Figure 11). Coon Rapids’ commercial and industrial sector in Xcel Energy territory saved 1.2 million kWh per year on average by participating in Xcel Energy programs, with two programs accounting for the majority of the sector’s electricity savings (Lighting Efficiency and Small Business Lighting). Connexus Energy provided program participation numbers for each 21 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 9 sector but did not report electricity savings attributed to these programs. CenterPoint Energy programs provided annual energy savings of 98,000 therms for the residential sector and 160,800 therms for the commercial and industrial sector (Figure 13). Figure 12: Popular electricity energy efficiency programs for commercial and industrial participation, Xcel Energy and Connexus Energy, 2019–2021 Commercial and Industrial Programs Avg. Participation Total Avg. Savings (kWh) Energy Efficient Buildings 2 76,600 HVAC+R Efficiency 7 57,000 Lighting Efficiency 17 488,000 Saver’s Switch for Business 2 45 Small Business Lighting 13 517,400 Connexus Energy Programs (examples below) • Commercial Lighting Rebates • Cooling and Heat Pump Rebates • Commercial Kitchen Rebates • Custom Incentives 17 - Figure 11: Popular electricity energy efficiency programs for residential participation, Xcel Energy and Connexus Energy, 2019–2021 Residential Programs Avg. Participation Total Avg. Savings (kWh) Efficient New Home Construction 15 2,000 Home Energy Squad 12 11,000 Low-Income Home Energy Squad 5 5,000 Residential Heating and Cooling 220 88,000 Refrigerator Recycling 30 20,000 Smart Thermostat 40 17,000 Connexus Energy Programs (examples below) • Dual Fuel Program • Electric Water Heating • Peak Time Rebates • WiFi Thermostats 1,800 - 22 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 10 Figure 13: Energy efficiency program participation highlights for all utilities in Coon Rapids Utility Annual Participation Annual Energy Savings MMBtu Xcel Energy Residential Programs 433 145,800 kWh 500 Commercial & Industrial Programs 45 1,157,700 kWh 3,950 CenterPoint Energy Residential Programs 1,281 97,920 therms 9,800 Commercial & Industrial Programs 174 160,815 therms 16,100 Connexus Energy Residential Programs 1,800 Commercial & Industrial Programs 17 23 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 11 Electric Vehicles and Charging Infrastructure Electric vehicles (EV) are also of interest to the Coon Rapids community and this Energy Action Plan. According to the Minnesota Department of Transportation, as of December 2021, there are 166 registered EVs in Coon Rapids, which is about 12% of all EVs registered in Anoka County. The Coon Rapids community also has seven public EV charging stations according to PlugShare, including city-installed stations at the Coon Rapids Ice Center and Coon Rapids Civic Center. The four City-owned chargers have been a popular charging location. Figure 14 and Figure 15 show the usage data of these chargers. Figure 14: Coon Rapids charging usage data, June 2021–May 2022 Charger Average Charge Duration Sum of Usage (kWh) Count of Sessions Civic Center 53:20 2,711 221 Civic Center #2 57:02 904 81 Ice Center 07:01 1,497 259 Ice Center #2 26:44 798 93 Grand Total 51:56 5,910 654 Figure 15: Coon Rapids monthly charging sessions and electricity consumption, June 2021–May 2022 Month Total Sessions Total Energy (kWh) June 2021 42 376 July 2021 37 337 August 2021 64 597 September 2021 58 470 October 2021 67 457 November 2021 67 617 December 2021 61 645 January 2022 56 483 February 2022 59 450 March 2022 53 487 April 2022 39 439 May 2022 51 551 Grand Total 654 5,910 24 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 12 Community Assets In addition to the energy data and demographics, Coon Rapids has many unique community assets that will help implement this plan. The Energy Action Team identified annual events, local community groups, unique places, businesses, and education institutions as assets in the community. This list will be helpful to refer to when implementing strategies. Figure 16: Coon Rapids community assets and connections generated by Energy Action Team 25 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 13 WHERE WE ARE GOING Energy Vision Statement During the planning process, the Energy Action Team created a vision statement for this Energy Action Plan. This statement helped guide the planning process and reflects the intention of the community. The City of Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan will benefit the community as a whole, including residents, business owners and visitors, as well as the infrastructure and institutions that support them. This plan positions the City of Coon Rapids as a leader in energy and supports generations of community members and visitors. Created and supported by community stakeholders, this plan creates financial savings while reducing the effects of climate change. Focus Areas To achieve a community-wide commitment to energy stewardship, the Energy Action Team identified the focus areas: energy efficiency and renewable energy. These focus areas provide a holistic approach to energy stewardship, covering a broad swath of the community. The Energy Action Team identified five different audiences for engagement and emphasized that equity should be considered across these audiences. These audiences include residents, businesses, municipal buildings, institutions, and multi-family buildings. Educating these audiences was also highlighted as critical to the adoption of energy strategies. The Energy Action Team identified energy efficiency as the most immediate need in the community and a priority for implementation. 26 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 14 Community Energy Goal Working together, the Energy Action Team set a community-wide goal that will be accomplished by 2030. Goal: Coon Rapids will reduce greenhouse gas emissions 35% by 2030, resulting in substantial energy costs avoided for the Coon Rapids community.2 Figure 17 illustrates the estimated greenhouse gas emission savings from energy conservation and renewable energy, compared to the net greenhouse gas emissions in Coon Rapids. Assuming business as usual energy usage, net emissions are expected to decrease by 26% in future years through Xcel Energy and Connexus Energy’s grid decarbonization efforts. A 35% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, including this plan’s additional impact, would lower emissions by an additional 98,000 MTCO2e from 2022 levels. Figure 18 provides annual benchmarks for our community to stay on track to meet our goal. Our energy goal will also help Coon Rapids avoid spending an estimated $9 million on energy costs by 2030.3 Partners in Energy will provide direct implementation support to Coon Rapids for 18 months from January 2023–June 2024, and ongoing support and access to Partners in Energy network resources to help achieve this goal. 2 In this statement, reduction in greenhouse gas emissions includes both energy efficiency and renewable energy efforts. In the case of renewable energy, greenhouse gasses are avoided rather than reduced or saved. The term “reduced” is used for clarity when combining the two efforts. 3 $9 million in costs avoided is a cumulative estimate based on the 2022 blended utility rates for savings benchmarks of demand side management programs from the forecasted scenario. 27 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 15 Figure 17: Coon Rapids net greenhouse gas emissions from electricity and natural gas sources and relation of 35% avoidance by 2030 Figure 18: Coon Rapids annual greenhouse gas emissions from electricity and natural gas sources with business as usual (BAU) including grid decarbonization, added to impact from the plan needed to reach 35% avoidance by 2030 280,027 182,017 0 50,000 100,000 150,000 200,000 250,000 300,000 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 MT C O 2 e Coon Rapids Net Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Avoidance of 35% by 2030 Net Emissions Goal Savings 0 5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 MT C O 2 e Annual Greenhouse Gas Emissions Avoidance BAU GHG Savings Plan Impact 28 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 16 HOW WE ARE GOING TO GET THERE Strategy Overview The Energy Action Team identified several strategies, best practices, and guidelines to guide implementation of each focus area. These include: • Strategies are “community strategies,” meaning the City, its partnerships, civic leaders and volunteers are all part of this work. • Strategies should strive toward equity in implementation. • Strategies should focus on changing behavior and social norms. • Communication should include the climate benefits of taking action, as well as cost savings. • Strategies will be creatively implemented beyond historical or traditional communication channels of other City plans. The strategies in this plan are expanded on with tactics that specify the work and audiences of each strategy. Timeline and Priorities The development of the strategies in this plan included setting the timeline and priorities to create a two-year work plan for the Energy Action Plan. To prioritize the strategies, the Energy Action Team weighed the impact and the feasibility of each. The words “impact” and “feasibility” had different meanings to each of the team members depending on their perspective. For example, “feasibility” for City staff and City Council might mean a dollar figure or budget consideration. To community members, it may mean that there are community resources and support available. Similarly, “impact” might mean greenhouse gas impacts to some, and to others it might mean community mobilization or visibility. Each perspective was equally welcomed when ranking the strategies. 29 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 17 Depending on where the strategy fell in the impact-feasibility matrix during the workshop exercise, that strategy could then be put into a short-, medium- and long-term category. Those timelines were described as the following. • Short Term: Begin implementing within six months of plan launch. • Medium Term: Begin implementing within one year of plan launch. • Long Term: Begin implementing within two years of plan launch. These timelines were set to take advantage of the Partners in Energy program’s implementation period to ensure greater resources for each strategy. The timeline for the strategies will continue throughout the plan as the strategies are refined and repeated. The group also weighed whether the strategy was equitable. The group agreed to move the most equitable strategies into a nearer term category. Figure 19: Workshop slide of prioritization activity and categorization descriptions Figure 20: Timeline visual of strategy priorities from workshops (LI stands for low impact and HF stands for high feasibility) Strategies that need resources or support uick wins omentum builders overlap with other city priorities onger term or uick wins m p a c t Feasibility T E E Short Term igh impact, high priority some , F months of launch edium Term igh impact, low feasibility months of launch ong Term ow impact, low feasibility some , F years of launch 30 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 18 Focus Area: Energy Efficiency The focus area of Energy Efficiency was modeled in this plan to contribute 50% toward the greenhouse gas reduction goal of 35% by 2030. Energy Efficiency was described by the Energy Action Team as a high priority focus area and should be the first step to engage the community. It was also identified as a way for community members to save on energy costs and build communication channels and relationships that could lead to further engagement on other focus areas, such as renewable energy and electric vehicles. Strategy 1: Support residential energy assessments and their recommended projects. Supporting Coon Rapid’s residents in receiving home energy assessments helps them understand their household’s unique energy needs and identify potential ways to reduce energy. Target Audience: Homeowners, landlords, renters and manufactured home park residents. Desired Outcomes: Increased understanding of energy use among audiences and a list of energy savings opportunities to use in recommended projects. Resources/Communication Channels The utilities and the City provide communication channels and resources for residents to undergo home energy assessments, including the Home Energy Squad® program. Those entities, the assessment program implementers, and other housing and community development channels can be used to communicate assessment opportunities. Tactics 1A: Promote residential energy assessments using communication channels like printed materials for events and mailings, and social media. 1B: Encourage upgrades to outdated or inefficient heating and cooling systems. 1C: Encourage the installation of smart thermostats and create educational materials on how to program them with efficiency in mind. Strategy 2: Empower homeowners and renters to take energy efficiency actions. Asking individuals to take actions such as upgrading to efficient lighting, appliances, and technologies and complete time of use practices can encourage immediate energy savings without added costs. Energy efficiency actions can also fill the gap between energy education and larger, higher cost efficiency projects. Target Audience Residents of Coon Rapids who own or rent homes, and anyone within that household, such as children, sub-leasers, etc. 31 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 19 Desired Outcomes The result of this campaign is primarily to educate and increase behavior changes that can lead to additional energy actions performed by the target audiences. Resources/Communication Channels Utility networks can help reach customers and provide educational materials, kits and communications support. Reaching active groups, such as the League of Women Voters, school green teams and faith organizations can help spread messages to multiple households. Tactics 2A: Create an energy efficiency scavenger hunt as a fun way to engage audiences. 2B: Create maintenance and energy efficiency kits for residents that include tips for home appliance maintenance, behavior change activities and other resources to reduce energy use in homes. 2C: Create a campaign to encourage replacing outdated appliances before equipment failure. 2D: Create a refrigerator recycling campaign aimed at getting people to recycle inefficient or second refrigerators. Strategy 3: Make energy and utility program information accessible with intentional communication about opportunities. Coon Rapids residents have different access to programs based on their utility providers. Access to these programs requires residents to know their utility providers and the available programs. Making this information easy to understand and accessible in multiple locations is key to energy efficiency action. Target Audience Residents of Coon Rapids who are able to use the resources provided by utilities and take energy action. Desired Outcomes The outcome for this strategy is to better inform audiences about their energy opportunities and increase participation in programs, while the City and utilities build relationships and trust with the residents. Resources/Communication Channels The City webpage, utility communications and social media outreach were identified as communication channels. Resources identified were language translation, interactive GIS maps and platforms created through Partners in Energy, and other marketing resources from all utility partners. Tactics 3A: Update City webpages to make energy efficiency opportunities easily navigable and accessible. 3B: Create a map of utility coverage for distribution. 32 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 20 Strategy 4: Leverage partnerships to expand the reach of energy efficiency opportunities through large organizational gatherings and direct communications. Existing and future partnerships with residents, City departments, faith organizations, and community groups will expand messaging to broader audiences and provide a chance for deeper engagement through events and personal interactions with subject matter experts. Target Audience Any group or business that has existing communications and gatherings that bring together audiences or any entity that can take advantage of energy efficiency actions. Desired Outcomes Expand communications through trusted messengers and platforms, as well as build relationships for additional partnerships. Resources/Communication Channels Existing partnerships within city communications and events, utility networks, and other groups that gather residents for learning purposes. Tactics 4A: Partner with the utilities, Chamber of Commerce, schools and institutions, events, and other recognizable entities to create and distribute email and social media promotions about energy efficiency opportunities and rebates. Strategy 5: Leverage city building and housing policies to enhance opportunities for energy efficiency projects. City policy can boost energy efficiency actions by making them easier to complete and requiring standards when projects are funded through taxpayer dollars. Reviewing existing policies for barriers and creating new policies where needed can help achieve energy efficiency goals. Target Audience Policy makers and implementers, as well as project implementers and contractors. Desired Outcomes Form new relationships between City departments and policy decision makers and increase energy efficiency education for City staff and elected officials. Create new energy efficiency policies in housing and building areas. Resources/Communication Channels This strategy requires buy-in from city council members, sustainability commission members and City staff. There are opportunities to use existing processes to make inroads to policy updates and changes. Tactics 5A: Explore creating a green building/energy efficiency policy for City financed buildings. 5B: Promote available interest free loans or grants to support energy efficiency projects. 5C: Explore creating an energy disclosure requirement for rental properties or renter tool to assess energy efficiency of a potential rental. 5D: Explore requiring home audits for rental properties/licenses. 33 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 21 Strategy 6: Reach underserved areas of our community through partnerships. In addition to greenhouse gas reductions, the benefits of energy efficiency efforts include utility cost savings. Outreach to students, seniors, English Language Learners, faith organizations and other social service organizations will help reach those who may be experiencing the highest energy burdens and could benefit the most from energy efficiency programs. Target Audience Residents with the highest energy burden and organizations and networks that currently work with those impacted by high energy costs. Desired Outcomes Lower energy utility bills and comfortable, safe housing for families and individuals. Resources/Communication Channels The City and Energy Action Team members have relationships with food shelves, the senior center, faith organizations and social service organizations that can support this strategy. These organizations work to help underrepresented residents and families, and we can partner with them to share energy efficiency opportunities by creating and distributing supporting resources. Tactics 6A: Create a resource guide and campaign for underrepresented residents to save money through efficiency. 6B: Create an outreach campaign targeting manufactured home residents to help increase energy efficiency and save money. 6C: Create an outreach campaign targeting renters to complete energy assessments, make behavior changes and access resources to increase energy efficiency. 6D: Translate materials as appropriate to reach audiences who could benefit from resources. Strategy 7: Conduct passive energy strategies where possible, such as increasing green space and tree growth. Passive energy efforts can support building energy efficiency efforts through assisting heating and cooling by adding tree canopies and green space to curb urban heat island effects and storm impacts. Target Audience Landowners, parks systems, developers, landscapers, Arbor Day events and City planning department. Desired Outcomes Increased green spaces and tree canopies to help curb climate effects. Resources/Communication Channels Watershed district, ACD, forestry departments and Energy Action Team members with architectural backgrounds are all helpful resources and communication channels for this effort. Tactics 7A: Work with the City planning department and Arbor Day program to include energy messaging. 34 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 22 Focus Area: Renewable Energy The focus area of Renewable Energy was modeled in this plan to contribute 50% toward the greenhouse gas avoidance goal of 35% by 2030. The Energy Action Team decided to make the adoption of renewable energy the next step to engage the community. In selecting a focus area dedicated to increasing the community’s knowledge of and participation in renewable energy programs, the team referenced the importance to community members of having resilient energy systems, saving money over time, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Strategy 8: Promote renewable energy education and conduct outreach to residents and businesses. The team identified a lack of knowledge of the subject and available programs as the largest barrier to renewable energy actions. Education can help overcome that barrier. Creating a campaign that speaks to and educates specific audiences will be a first step in asking people to adopt renewable energy practices. Target Audience The target audience spans sectors from individuals to businesses and institutions. Homeowners, renters, building owners and leasers can participate in renewable energy programs, and are therefore included in the audience for this strategy. Desired Outcomes Increasing knowledge on renewable energy topics and driving increased use of renewable energy through installations and subscriptions. Resources/Communication Channels The City can support this strategy through the continuation of and updates to the Community Sustainability Partnership program. Partners in Energy can support the program with case studies. The City Council can support this effort through recognition and the utilities can provide program information that is relevant to campaign efforts. 35 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 23 Strategy 9: Create and implement new policies to encourage and incentivize renewable energy growth. The City has implemented a solar ordinance and can further the accessibility of renewable energy projects and subscriptions by exploring new policies that support participation. Target Audience Our audience for this strategy is City staff, policy makers and community members impacted by a policy or change in policy. Desired Outcomes The outcome of these actions would create more access and fewer barriers to participation in on-site solar and solar subscription programs. Resources/Communication Channels The City council and sustainability commission can be the champions of these policies and two- way communication channels to the community. Tactics 9A: Promote a solar suitability assessment for building owners to complete and explore implementing requirements. 9B: Create a sustainable building policy to incentivize renewable energy projects. Strategy 10: Promote existing external financial incentives for solar while creating new City-owned financing programs for renewable energy projects. Alongside utility programs and rebates, this strategy can combine efforts of other renewable energy opportunities and support them with City incentives or group-buy opportunities where applicable. Target Audience Business and industry partners have a large impact and are therefore a priority target audience, while homeowners and smaller projects will create momentum and community buy-in for other projects. Tactics 8A: Leverage communication channels and existing events for dissemination of information (e.g., North Suburban Home Show, city and neighborhood group email lists, utility contacts, City and partner social media). 8B: Host informational events and webinars. 8C: Create activities and contests encouraging renewable adoption (e.g., photo contest, neighborhood challenges and games). 8D: Develop demonstration projects and create hands-on activities and communications to encourage and support adoption of renewable energy. 8E: Develop communications using infographics, translated materials and renter information. 8F: Develop the City webpage for easy access to renewable energy information, with links, videos and navigation tools. 8G: Create a take-home kit with renewable energy resources. 36 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 24 Desired Outcomes Increased solar project installations throughout the city. Resources/Communication Channels The utilities can provide program information and connection to outside organization programming, while the City can provide guidance to residents and business owners. Tactics 10A: Develop cost-sharing opportunities for solar installations. 10B: Support and promote group buy-in opportunities for solar. 10C: Update City financing programs to include renewable energy systems. 10D: Explore reducing or waiving permit fees for solar installations. 10E: Maintain an accessible list of financing options (e.g., grants, tax credits, loans) for renewable energy projects for different types of organizations and projects. Strategy 11: Partner and build relationships with organizations to increase renewable energy adoption. Partnering with educational institutions, community groups, business organizations and multi- cultural organizations will help reach all corners of the community to connect them with relevant renewable energy resources. Target Audience Organization leaders who have communication channels and can act as trusted messengers and community connectors. Desired Outcomes Consistent messaging about renewable energy can help people identify misinformation, understand barriers, and build relationships that lead to renewable energy adoption across the city’s sectors. Resources/Communication Channels Understanding and fostering existing city department relationships with community organizations and creating new relationships through one-on-one outreach will make this strategy a success. Tactics 11A: Partner with the Chamber of Commerce to reach businesses. 11B: Partner with multi-cultural organizations, (e.g., Transformative Circle) to connect with households and families served. 11C: Partner with Homeowners Associations to encourage renewable energy adoption. 11D: Leverage utility relationships to connect with large businesses. 11E: Partner with Anoka County on best practices and opportunities to reduce barriers to renewable energy. 11F: Connect with school district to network with students and parents. 37 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 25 HOW WE STAY ON COURSE This Energy Action Plan is a living document. Goals and strategies will be assessed and refined as needed based on data and community staff capacity. Data and Reporting Partners in Energy will provide biannual progress reports with metrics of success and overall progress toward goals for Xcel Energy rebates and programs. These reports will be available publicly and shared with both the community and Energy Action Team. If available, ad hoc participation reports for specific Xcel Energy programs (e.g., Home Energy Squad) can be provided to measure success of campaigns and to determine if we need to change course. Connexus Energy and CenterPoint Energy were involved in the planning process and the city of Coon Rapids will request data progress reports from those utilities at the same cadence as the Xcel Energy data to best measure progress toward goals. Partners in Energy will support this effort by facilitating connections and helping the City communicate what data is needed. Project Management and Tracking Partners in Energy will host regular project management check-in calls with staff to ensure we stay on course to achieve our strategies. If necessary, an implementation check-in meeting with the Energy Action Team can be convened to assess progress toward goals and discuss strategy refinement. Figure 21: Actions and Tracking Energy Action Plan Implementation Measurement & Reporting Strategy Development & Refinement 38 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 26 Roles and Responsibilities Implementing the strategies outlined in this plan will require leadership and collaboration among the City of Coon Rapids, members of the Energy Action Team, community representatives, and Xcel Energy. City of Coon Rapids The City of Coon Rapids will provide a primary point of contact for implementation and will assign members to attend regular project management check-ins. The City commits to leveraging existing communication channels and community connections to promote the Energy Action Plan. In addition, the City of Coon Rapids will lead strategies specific to City-owned buildings. Energy Action Team The Energy Action Team formed to create this plan will support implementation by serving as community connectors to their networks, promoting Coon Rapids’ energy vision, encouraging participation in programs and outreach campaigns, and sharing success stories. When relevant, members will serve as partners and leaders in strategies targeting residents, businesses, institutions, and municipalities. Energy Action Team members may be invited to project management calls or other check-in meetings to ensure strategies are implemented successfully. Xcel Energy In addition to data reporting, project management, and implementation tracking, Xcel Energy commits to 18 months of implementation support, including marketing and communications support and program expertise. It will also provide a dedicated community facilitator to serve as a primary point of contact. Partners in Energy digital resources, including webinars, community portal, and community events will also be available to Coon Rapids. 39 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 27 APPENDIX A: IMPLEMENTATION WORK PLAN This appendix gives additional details for each strategy, including the implementation team and tasks, timeline, and goals. This appendix will serve as a work plan for the Energy Action Team and Partners in Energy. 40 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 28 ___________________________________________________________ Strategy Action Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 A Promote residential energy assessments using communication channels like printed materials for events and mailings, and social media. B Encourage upgrades to outdated or inefficient heating and cooling systems. C Encourage the installation of smart thermostats and create educational materials on how to program them with efficiency in mind. A Create an energy efficiency scavenger hunt as a fun way to engage audiences. B Create maintenance and energy efficiency kits for residents that include tips for home appliance maintenance, behavior change activities and other resources to reduce energy use in homes. C Create a campaign to encourage replacing outdated appliances before equipment failure. D Create a refrigerator recycling campaign aimed at getting people to recycle inefficient or second refrigerators. A Update City webpages to make energy efficiency opportunities easily navigable and accessible. B Create a map of utility coverage for distribution. 4 Leverage partnerships to expand the reach of energy efficiency opportunities through large organizational gatherings and direct communications. A Partner with the utilities, Chamber of Commerce, schools and institutions, events, and other recognizable entities to create and distribute email and social media promotions about energy efficiency opportunities and rebates. A Explore creating a green building/energy efficiency policy for City financed buildings. B Promote available interest free loans or grants to support energy efficiency projects. C Explore creating an energy disclosure requirement for rental properties or renter tool to assess energy efficiency of a potential rental. D Explore requiring home audits for rental properties/licenses. A Create a resource guide and campaign for underrepresented residents to save money through efficiency. B Create an outreach campaign targeting manufactured home residents to help increase energy efficiency and save money. C Create an outreach campaign targeting renters to complete energy assessments, make behavior changes and access resources to increase energy efficiency. D Translate materials as appropriate to reach audiences who could benefit from resources. 7 Conduct passive energy strategies where possible, such as increasing green space and tree growth.A Work with the City planning department and Arbor Day program to include energy messaging. Energy Efficiency Strategies 2024 Support residential energy assessments and their recommended projects. Empower homeowners and renters to take energy efficiency actions. 1 2 3 Make energy and utility program information accessible with intentional communication about opportunities. 5 Leverage city building and housing policies to enhance opportunities for energy efficiency projects. 2023 6 Reach underserved areas of our community through partnerships. 41 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 29 Strategy Action Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 A Leverage communication channels and existing events for dissemination of information (e.g., North Suburban Home Show, city and neighborhood group email lists, utility contacts, City and partner social media). B Host informational events and webinars. C Create activities and contests encouraging renewable adoption (e.g., photo contest, neighborhood challenges and games). D Develop demonstration projects and create hands-on activities and communications to encourage and support adoption of renewable energy. E Develop communications using infographics, translated materials and renter information. F Develop the City webpage for easy access to renewable energy information, with links, videos and navigation tools. G Create a take-home kit with renewable energy resources. A Promote a solar suitability assessment for building owners to complete and explore implementing requirements. B Create a sustainable building policy to incentivize renewable energy projects. A Develop cost-sharing opportunities for solar installations. B Support and promote group buy- in opportunities for solar. C Update City financing programs to include renewable energy systems. D Explore reducing or waiving permit fees for solar installations. E Maintain an accessible list of financing options (e.g., grants, tax credits, loans) for renewable energy projects for different types of organizations and projects. A Partner with the Chamber of Commerce to reach businesses. B Partner with multi-cultural organizations, (e.g., Transformative Circle) to connect with households and families served. C Partner with Homeowners Associations to encourage renewable energy adoption. D Leverage utility relationships to connect with large businesses. E Partner with Anoka County on best practices and opportunities to reduce barriers to renewable energy. F Connect with school district to network with students and parents. 2023 2024 Create and implement new policies to encourage and incentivize renewable energy growth. Renewable Energy Strategies 10 Promote existing external financial incentives for solar while creating new City-owned financing programs for renewable energy projects. 11 Partner and build relationships with organizations to increase renewable energy adoption. 8 Promote renewable energy education and conduct outreach to residents and businesses. 9 42 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 30 APPENDIX B: METHODOLOGY FOR MEASURING SUCCESS As part of implementation support, Partners in Energy will provide biannual progress reports for Xcel Energy participation and savings data for Coon Rapids. Partners in Energy will facilitate acquiring data from the other utility partners for the city to aggregate. All goals will be measured against Coon Rapids’ three-year baseline of 2019–2021 data unless otherwise noted. The following section defines how to measure various aspects of the goals outlined in this Energy Action Plan, including which programs and activities may be included and any assumptions used to measure the goals. Community Goal Coon Rapids will reduce greenhouse gas emissions 35% by 2030, resulting in substantial energy costs avoided for the Coon Rapids community. Assumptions This goal assumes that “reduce greenhouse gas emissions” includes both the energy savings through efficiency programs, and the avoided greenhouse gas emissions from renewable energy participation. Emissions factors used for goal setting are utility-specific and reflect 2021 emission intensity reporting. This goal assumes that Xcel Energy’s, Connexus Energy’s, and CenterPoint Energy’s demand side management program participation and kWh and therm savings will continue business as usual (BAU) from 2023 to 2030. BAU assumes an annual savings of 1.3 million kWh through Xcel Energy’s energy efficiency program participation, 1 million kWh through Connexus Energy program participation, and 265,000 therms through CenterPoint Energy program participation, across all sectors. Cumulative participation for the BAU scenario between 2023 and 2030 will be 70,884 with a cumulative energy savings of 276,824 MMBtu. An increase in annual program 43 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 31 participation will result in increased annual energy savings, through which the Coon Rapids community can avoid energy costs. Due to a lack of data available for Connexus Energy utility programs, estimated savings are based on comparable Xcel Energy programs. Projected participation and savings estimates assume that the utility programs remain the same throughout the plan’s implementation. This goal assumes that the renewable energy participation rates will increase due to this plan’s efforts and the relationships built through energy efficiency campaigns. The estimated kWh production of each project participation is based on an average for Coon Rapid’s building and home sizes and kWh usage. Measuring Energy Savings The community-wide goal will be measured by comparing cumulative electricity and natural gas savings from 2023 through 2030 for all sectors against projected BAU savings over the same time period. This goal includes all Xcel Energy, Connexus Energy, and CenterPoint Energy demand side management and renewable energy programs available to every sector and measures the first-year savings data provided by the utilities. The following table outlines the assumptions for GHG avoidance through energy efficiency program participation in Coon Rapids. Figure 22: Estimated emissions avoided through demand side management program participation for all utilities in Coon Rapids Estimated Emissions Avoided: DSM Program Participation 2030 BAU (MTCO2e) 2030 Goal (MTCO2e) Incremental (MTCO2e) Xcel Energy 1,592 6,086 761 Connexus Energy 2,786 12,281 1,535 CenterPoint Energy 11,304 27,879 3,485 Measuring Renewable Energy Emissions Avoided Projected greenhouse gas emissions avoidance includes cumulative emissions savings from participation in renewable programs where customers retain the Renewable Energy Credit. This includes Xcel Energy’s renewable subscription programs, Windsource and Renewable*Connect, Connexus Energy’s Community Solar program, and on-site solar installed by residents in Coon Rapids. The table below outlines the assumptions for greenhouse gas emission avoidance through renewable energy in Coon Rapids from 2023–2030. To estimate avoided greenhouse gas emissions, utility-specific emissions factors were applied to the electricity and natural gas savings estimates for both the business as usual and goal scenarios. 44 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 32 Figure 23: Estimated emissions avoided through renewable energy program participation for all utilities in Coon Rapids by 2030 Estimated Emissions Avoided: Renewable Energy Participation 2030 BAU (MTCO2e) 2030 Goal (MTCO2e) Incremental (MTCO2e) Xcel Energy - Windsource® and Renewable*Connect® 3,668 14,045 1,756 Connexus Energy - SolarWise™ 741 3,273 409 Connexus Energy – OnSite Solar 6,551 28,928 3,616 Measuring Energy Costs Avoided In addition to avoiding emissions, participation in energy efficiency programs may also help residents avoid spending on energy costs. Estimated energy costs avoided were calculated using 2022 electricity and natural gas estimated rates by sector for each utility included in the data rollup4. Figure 24: Energy costs per kWh and therm for all utilities in 2022 Energy Costs 2022 Rate per kWh Rate per therm Xcel Energy Residential rate $0.113 - Commercial/Industrial rate $0.087 - Connexus Energy Residential rate $0.122 - Commercial/Industrial rate $0.55-.065 - CenterPoint Energy Residential rate - $0.91 Commercial/Industrial rate - $0.601 Anticipated energy cost avoidance is calculated using estimated electricity and natural gas first- year savings from projected energy efficiency program participation. 2030 goal levels are modeled from anticipated cumulative energy savings and use 2022 rates. Figure 25: Energy costs avoided for all utilities in Coon Rapids to reach the goal of 35% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 Energy Cost Avoidance 2030 BAU 2030 Goal Incremental Xcel Energy $937,554 $2,510,103 $313,763 Connexus Energy $916,423 $2,616,026 $327,003 CenterPoint Energy $1,630,522 $4,021,151 $502,644 Total Estimated Cost Avoidance $3,484,498 $9,147,281 $1,143,410 This model assumes increased participation in energy efficiency programs annually to meet Coon Rapids’ greenhouse gas emissions goals. 4 Energy rates current as of 2022 but are subject to change. 45 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 33 APPENDIX C: XC N RGY’S PAR N RS IN ENERGY PLANNING PROCESS Ab Xc l ’s Partners in Energy Xcel Energy is an electric and natural gas utility that provides the energy that powers millions of homes and businesses across eight Western and Midwestern states. Each community Xcel Energy serves has its own unique priorities and vision for its energy future. The energy landscape is dynamically changing with communities leading the way in setting energy and sustainability goals. To continue to innovatively support their communities, Xcel Energy launched Partners in Energy in the summer of 2014 as a collaborative resource with tailored services to complement each community’s vision. The program offerings include support to develop an energy action plan or electric vehicle plan, tools to help implement the plan and deliver results, and resources designed to help each community stay informed and achieve their outlined goals. Plan Development Process The content of this plan is derived from a series of planning workshops held in the community with a planning team committed to representing local energy priorities and implementing plan strategies. The engagement process included both a series of five in-person workshops from May 2022 through September 2022, as well as multiple surveys between workshops. Workshop 1: W a s l C Ra s’ f look like? The team learned about Partners in Energy, established a vision for Coon Rapids and reviewed shared goal language and priorities for the Energy Action Plan. 46 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 34 Workshop 2: How will we focus our efforts to achieve our vision? At workshop two, the team finalized the vision for Coon Rapids. Three focus areas were decided on, in order of progression: energy efficiency, renewable energy, and electric vehicles (EVs). The team discussed who and what would be impacted by this work, including municipal buildings, residents, businesses, nonprofits, and education institutions. The team incorporated equity into each focus area for all to benefit. They decided goal metrics, priorities, and reviewed available energy programs from utilities. Workshop 3: What do we want to do? In workshop three, the team discussed program data and brainstormed strategies to increase energy efficiency and renewable energy adoption in Coon Rapids. They devised actionable strategies that crossed all audiences for each focus area. Education was a common theme that arose within each focus area. They discussed a community-wide goal for greenhouse gas emissions reductions for Coon Rapids. Workshop 4: How are we going to do it? In workshop four, the team reviewed EV program information from utility representatives. They brainstormed strategies for EV adoption in Coon Rapids and prioritized strategies from all focus areas. They decided on a community-wide goal for Coon Rapids to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 35% by 2030. Figure 26: Coon Rapids Energy Action Team in Workshop 1 Figure 27: Energy efficiency strategy brainstorming by Energy Action Team 47 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 35 Workshop 5: What needs to be done? In workshop five, the team confirmed priority strategies and discussed the Energy Action Plan process. They laid out all the strategies and had participants commit to where they could provide support during implementation. They celebrated a great team and planning process! Partners in Energy Process for Success Resources from Xcel Energy for Implementation Figure 28: Energy Action Team members participating in a gallery walk activity to create strategies to increase EV adoption in Coon Rapids Project Management Communication Assistance and Resources Tracking and Measurement Celebration and Recognition of Successes Figure 29: Coon Rapids Energy Action Team members 48 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 36 APPENDIX D: GLOSSARY OF TERMS 15 x 15: Xcel Energy’s privacy rule, which re uire all data summary statistics to contain at least 15 premises, with no single premise responsible for more than 15% of the total. Following these rules, if a premise is responsible for more than 15% of the total for that data set, it is removed from the summary. British Thermal Unit (BTU): The amount of heat needed to raise one pound of water at maximum density through one degree Fahrenheit Carbon-free: Carbon-free refers to sources of energy that will not emit additional carbon dioxide into the air. Wind, solar and nuclear energy are all carbon-free sources but only wind and solar are renewable. Conservation Improvement Programs (CIP): Portfolio of approved utility energy efficiency and demand management programs. Minnesota electric utilities have a goal of saving 1.5% of their total energy sales each year via customer conservation efforts. Minnesota natural gas utilities have a goal of saving 0.5% of their total energy sales each year via customer conservation efforts. Cost Avoidance: Represents the estimated energy costs not spent as a result of energy efficiency measures. Demand Side Management (DSM): Modification of consumer demand for energy through various methods, including education and financial incentives. DSM aims to encourage consumers to decrease energy consumption, especially during peak hours or to shift time of energy use to off-peak periods, such as at night and on weekends. Direct Installation: Free energy-saving equipment installed by Xcel Energy or other organization for program participants that produces immediate energy savings. Energy Burden: Percentage of gross household income spent on energy costs. 49 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 37 Energy Reduction: The result of behavior changes that cause less energy to be used. For example, setting the thermostat lower reduces the energy used in your home during the winter. Since energy reductions can be easily reversed, they are not accounted for when calculating changes in energy usage. Energy Savings: Comes from a permanent change that results in using less energy to achieve the same results. A new furnace uses X% energy less to keep your home at the same temperature (all things being equal), resulting in energy savings of X%. For accounting purposes, energy savings are only counted in the year the new equipment is installed. Greenhouse Gases (GHG): Gases in the atmosphere that absorb and emit radiation and significantly contribute to climate change. The primary greenhouse gases in the earth's atmosphere are water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and ozone. Greenhouse Gas Avoidance: Represents the estimated greenhouse gasses not emitted as a result of energy efficiency measures. Grid Decarbonization: The current planned reduction in the carbon intensity of electricity provided by electric utilities through the addition of low- or no-carbon energy sources to the electricity grid. Kilowatt-hour (kWh): A unit of electricity consumption. Million British Thermal Units (MMBtu): A unit of energy consumption that allows both electricity and natural gas consumption to be combined. Metric Tons of Carbon Dioxide Equivalent (MTCO2e): A unit of measure for greenhouse gas emissions. The unit "CO2e" represents an amount of a greenhouse gas whose atmospheric impact has been standardized to that of one unit mass of carbon dioxide (CO2), based on the global warming potential (GWP) of the gas. Megawatt (MW): A unit of electric power equal to 1 million watts. Premise: A unique combination of service address and meter. For residential customers, this is the equivalent of an individual house or dwelling unit in a multi-tenant building. For business customers, it is an individual business, or for a larger business, a separately metered portion of the business’s load at that address. Renewable Energy Credit (REC): For every megawatt-hour of clean, renewable electricity generation, a renewable energy credit (REC) is created. A REC embodies all the environmental attributes of the generation and can be tracked and traded separately from the underlying electricity. This is also known as a Renewable Energy Certificate. Solar Garden: Shared solar array with grid-connected subscribers who receive bill credits for their subscriptions. Subscription: An agreement to purchase a certain amount of something at regular intervals. Therm (thm): A unit of natural gas consumption. 50 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 38 APPENDIX E: IMPLEMENTATION MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING 51 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 39 52 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 40 53 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 41 54 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 42 55 Item 2. Coon Rapids Energy Action Plan 43 56 Item 2. AVERAGE SAVINGS PER COMMUNITY IN 2019 Electricity 5.2 Million kWH Greenhouse Gas Equivalent to removing 502 cars off the road TOTAL PARTICIPANTS IN 2019 Energy Efficiency Programs 43,500 Renewable Energy Programs 24,500 56 COMMUNITIES SERVED SINCE 2014 Partners in Energy provides the tools and resources to support communities in achieving their energy goals. The program offerings include support to develop an energy action plan or electric vehicle plan, tools to help implement your plan and deliver results, and resources designed to help the communities we serve stay informed and achieve their energy goals. Planning support Partners In EnergyHow can Partners in Energy energize your community? DEVELOP AN ENERGY ACTION PLAN ADVANCESyour economic development path FOSTERSa collaborative, energy-savvy communityPROVIDES a leadership platform ENGAGES and educates community members LAUNCHES your energy and sustainability goals FACILITATE WORKSHOPS Access to the ONLINE PORTAL Access to MARKETING TOOLKITS Begin a new STRATEGY SCENARIO PLANNING OUTREACH SUPPORT Access to OFFICE HOURS DOCUMENTING ENERGY PLAN JOINT MARKETING ENERGY EXPERTISE EDUCATION AND OUTREACH TRACKING AND REPORTING PROJECT MANAGEMENT ESTABLISHING BASELIINES RECRUITING STAKEHOLDERS GOAL SETTING Partners In EnergyHow can Partners in Energy energize your community? DEVELOP AN ENERGY ACTION PLAN ADVANCESyour economic development path FOSTERSa collaborative, energy-savvy communityPROVIDESa leadershipplatform ENGAGESand educates community members LAUNCHES your energy and sustainability goals FACILITATE WORKSHOPS Access to the ONLINE PORTAL Access to MARKETING TOOLKITS Begin a new STRATEGY SCENARIO PLANNING OUTREACH SUPPORT Access to OFFICE HOURS DOCUMENTING ENERGY PLAN JOINT MARKETING ENERGY EXPERTISE EDUCATION AND OUTREACH TRACKING AND REPORTING PROJECT MANAGEMENT ESTABLISHING BASELIINES RECRUITING STAKEHOLDERS GOAL SETTING Implementation support INFORMATION SHEET MINNESOTAPARTNERS IN ENERGY HELPING COMMUNITIES BUILD AN ENERGY FUTURE 57 Item 2. xcelenergy.com | © 2020 Xcel Energy Inc. | Xcel Energy is a registered trademark of Xcel Energy Inc. | 20-04-302 Additional resources to boost results In addition to our team, tools and resources, we provide opportunities for you to interact and network with other communities participating in Partners in Energy. Keeping graduates energized We invite communities that have participated to stay engaged. Since you’ve developed a blueprint for your energy future, we have resources to keep your momentum going and keep you up to date with what’s new at Xcel Energy. COMMUNITY SUMMITS Attend in-person events with other communities to share best practices. We provide educational opportunities that feature experts on current energy topics and opportunities to learn from each other. OFFICE HOURS Attend monthly webinars that cover trending topics, plus access to and examples of initiatives and activities happening in Partners in Energy communities. Ask questions and share experiences. ONLINE PORTAL Get access to documents related to your community’s work, and examples of other community goals, strategies, and collateral. It connects you to a variety of community program materials, a collateral library, toolkits for outreach and education, as well as collaboration forums. Access to MARKETING TOOLKITS +++ Begin a new STRATEGY Access to OFFICE HOURS Access to the ONLINE PORTAL Access to MARKETING TOOLKITS Begin a new STRATEGY Partners In EnergyHow can Partners in Energy energize your community?DEVELOP AN ENERGY ACTION PLANADVANCESyour economic development path FOSTERSa collaborative, energy-savvy communityPROVIDESa leadershipplatform ENGAGESand educates community membersLAUNCHESyour energy and sustainability goalsFACILITATE WORKSHOPSAccess to theONLINE PORTAL Access toMARKETING TOOLKITS Begin a newSTRATEGYSCENARIO PLANNINGOUTREACH SUPPORTAccess to OFFICE HOURS DOCUMENTING ENERGY PLANJOINTMARKETINGENERGY EXPERTISE EDUCATION AND OUTREACH TRACKING AND REPORTINGPROJECT MANAGEMENTESTABLISHING BASELIINESRECRUITING STAKEHOLDERSGOAL SETTINGPartners In EnergyHow can Partners in Energy energize your community?DEVELOP AN ENERGY ACTION PLANADVANCESyour economic development path FOSTERSa collaborative, energy-savvy communityPROVIDESa leadershipplatform ENGAGESand educates community membersLAUNCHESyour energy and sustainability goalsFACILITATE WORKSHOPSAccess to theONLINE PORTAL Access toMARKETING TOOLKITS Begin a newSTRATEGYSCENARIO PLANNINGOUTREACH SUPPORTAccess to OFFICE HOURS DOCUMENTING ENERGY PLANJOINTMARKETINGENERGY EXPERTISE EDUCATION AND OUTREACH TRACKING AND REPORTINGPROJECT MANAGEMENTESTABLISHING BASELIINESRECRUITING STAKEHOLDERSGOAL SETTING Access to MARKETING TOOLKITS +++ Begin a new STRATEGY Access to OFFICE HOURS Access to the ONLINE PORTAL Access to MARKETING TOOLKITS Begin a new STRATEGY Join us Apply in January or July. Applications available at xcelenergy.com/PartnersInEnergy. Questions: PartnersinEnergy@xcelenergy.com or 800.369.4362. 58 Item 2. Page 1 of 6 23-10-507 Colorado | Minnesota Application Energy Action Planning – Background and Purpose Since 2014, Partners in Energy has been helping communities gather local governments, community-based organizations, businesses and residents to develop and implement energy action plans that address local energy challenges and priorities with actionable strategies and resources. In addition to offering support for community-based energy action plan development and implementation, Partners in Energy is evolving to include a broader spectrum of community engagement that includes supporting returning Partners in Energy communities as they define new goals and strategies, working with communities that have existing energy goals and strategies but need help implementing them, supporting smaller communities or geographic areas (i.e., districts or neighborhoods) that may benefit from a more tailored approach, or even convening collaborations that don’t fit the traditional definition of a community but are focused on increased efficiency, beneficial electrification and renewable energy opportunities in diverse settings. Planning and implementation Services The planning and implementation process is tailored to the unique needs and priorities of each community. Partners in Energy offers tools, data, and expertise to help communities analyze their energy trends, establish energy goals, identify energy strategies, and implement their energy priorities. Through the Partners in Energy process, Xcel Energy supports communities in convening stakeholders to develop custom roadmaps to achieve their energy goals. Xcel Energy also helps communities implement their energy strategies. Accepted communities will participate in a scoping meeting to determine the pathway that best aligns with the community’s interests and capabilities. A no-cost resource Partners in Energy is offered at no cost to participating communities in Colorado and Minnesota, with the expectation that both Xcel Energy and the community will invest in the process. This investment includes staff and financial resources from Xcel Energy during both the planning and implementation phases. It also includes community staff time during both the planning and implementation phases and your community’s plan may require financial support to implement strategies. 59 Item 2. Page 2 of 6 23-10-507 Partners in Energy Application Partners in Energy 800-369-4362 Colorado | Minnesota Xcel Energy wants to work with motivated, engaged, and action-oriented communities and champions who are willing to commit to the process and the outcomes. This application will help us better determine good community alignment for our limited, but valuable, resources. While completing the application does not guarantee acceptance as a participant, your application will be evaluated against other applicants using criteria that include, but may not be limited to, community size and structure, planning experience, stakeholder capacity, available resources (staff and otherwise), and willingness to share results publicly. Applying for the program does not obligate you to move forward with the process if community priorities change or moving forward is no longer in the best interest of the community. If you have questions about the application or the opportunity, please visit xcelenergy.com/PartnersInEnergy, email us at PartnersInEnergy@xcelenergy.com or call 800-369-4362. Please email the completed application to PartnersInEnergy@xcelenergy.com. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and will be reviewed quarterly on January 15, April 15, July 15, and October 15. We will confirm acceptance into the program or ask for more details within the month following the respective deadline. We reserve the right to pause or discontinue any or all application cycles at the sole discretion of Xcel Energy. Qualifying customers Communities in Colorado and Minnesota with retail energy services from Xcel Energy qualify to participate in Partners in Energy. Community customer information Community name Community jurisdiction (e.g., city, association, partnerships, county): _____________________________________________________________________ Contact name _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Title Phone Address _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City Email Community profile Approximate business count Approximate household count Approximate population Approximate area in square miles Would you be able to provide a GIS a shapefile of your community that would define the geographic boundaries of the area? Yes No Current community energy-related utility providers (e.g. gas service providers) 1) Name of company Gas, electric or both: 2) Name of company Gas, electric or both: 3) Name of company Gas, electric or both: City of Columbia Heights Anoka County, Home Energy Squad, Walters/Haul Star, Columbia Heights Recycling Center, HeightsNext, SACA Food Shelf, Columbia Heights Public Schools Andrew Boucher City Planner 763-706-3673 3989 Central Avenue NE; Columbia Heights, MN 55421 Columbia Heights aboucher@columbiaheightsmn.gov Approximately 500 8,750 22,000 3.5 CenterPoint Energy Xcel Energy Gas Electric Clear form 60 Item 2. Page 3 of 6 23-10-507 Partners in Energy Application Partners in Energy 800-369-4362 Colorado | Minnesota Interest in Partners in Energy 1. Why are you applying to Partners In Energy? Please provide any relevant background needed to understand your community and its energy use planning objectives. 2. What are the most pressing energy-related issues facing your community today? 3. If you’re accepted as a participant in Partners in Energy, what additional approvals within your community would you need to obtain prior to starting? (examples: City Council, City Manager, Sustainability Commission, etc.) Columbia Height's 2040 Comprehensive Plan identifies a need to integrate strategies into plans to be more resilient to climate change related issues through the lens of social equity. CH is a fully developed first ring suburb with an increasingly diverse population and moderate-to-low income households. The majority or (73.6%) of Columbia Heights' housing stock was built before 1970, so the housing stock is continually in need of reinvestment and most of the permit activity comes from home renovation. The City also has adopted the property maintenance code and requires licensing for rentals which is responsible for a number of renovations; additionally, the City is interested in Time of Sale inspections. The City has estimated its gross solar potential and included a map of the solar potential in the Comprehensive Plan. Some of the most pressing energy-related issues facing Columbia Heights include: - Aging and/or deteriorating housing - Funding for existing housing programs not sustainable in the long-term - Increase investment in business development to support existing and attract new businesses - Enhance the community through clean-up initiatives, redevelopment opportunities, and housing renovation programs - Interest in SolSmart participation - Encourage individual homeowners to implement energy conservation practices. Some goals that are identified in the Housing section of the Comprehensive Plan include: - Preserve and reinvest in the housing stock to protect values and investment in the city through creation of an energy efficiency program for home remodeling and translating these marketing materials to multiple languages - Reinvest in older ownership single family housing and multifamily complexes through the use of Housing Improvement Areas or other innovative financing methods. Columbia Heights is able to approve participation through administrative action and/or City Council; we have introduced Partners in Energy to the Sustainability Commission during the December 2023 meeting and have the proposal scheduled for discussion at the January 2, 2024 City Council Work Session before the Council approves it during their January 8, 2024 City Council meeting. All of this will be done before the January 15, 2024 deadline. 61 Item 2. Page 4 of 6 23-10-507 Partners in Energy Application Partners in Energy 800-369-4362 Colorado | Minnesota Planning and energy management experience 4. Does your community currently have any energy, sustainability, environmental justice or climate goals? If so, please share. 5. What energy, sustainability, environmental justice or climate change initiatives or programs has your community recently implemented or have underway? Community resources and commitment 6. Who will be the point(s) of contact to manage your Partners In Energy participation? Please indicate whether the point(s) of contact are paid staff or volunteers. If listing multiple points of contact, please clarify the role of each. The City does not currently have any energy, sustainability, environmental justice, or climate goals and there is interest in developing goals. There are none to the best of my knowledge besides participation in the MN GreenStep Cities program. Andrew Boucher - paid city staff; additional points of contact may be included as our participation in the program develops. 62 Item 2. Page 5 of 6 23-10-507 Partners in Energy Application Partners in Energy 800-369-4362 Colorado | Minnesota 7. While Partners in Energy is offered to communities in Colorado and Minnesota at no cost, communities are responsible for expenses associated with implementation. Does your community have staff, volunteers, existing budgets or other funding resources dedicated to the implementation of the energy initiatives that may be identified or supported through the Partners in Energy process? Yes No If no, please explain. Community involvement 8. Who from your community do you anticipate engaging in the development of your energy plan? This may include city or county staff, homeowners and renters, nonprofit service organizations, local businesses, education institutions, multifamily housing managers or owners, and representatives from under-served communities. 9. Partners in Energy is designed to promote communities learning from each other and sharing best practices. Will you allow your final work products to be shared publicly? Yes No If no, please explain. The City of Columbia Heights has paid staff and volunteers as well as community groups that can be dedicated to the implementation of the energy initiatives and there are some funding sources that we can utilize/budget for once we've established goals and priorities. All of the above; the City puts on numerous annual city events in partnership with community groups, Columbia Heights Public Library is another asset that can be used for engagement purposes, homeowners and renters through the Time of Sale/Rental Licensing programs, Home Energy Squad/Institute for Energy and the Environment. The City also has an EDA, Sustainability Commission, Youth Commission, and Housing/Redevelopment Authority that can be utilized for engagement purposes. The Police Department conducts a great deal of engagement activities including establishing a Multi-Cultural Advisory Committee composed of representatives from under-served communities. SACA Food Shelf is also an essential partner. 63 Item 2. Partners in Energy Application Partners in Energy 800-369-4362 Colorado | Minnesota 10. Will you provide Xcel Energy the opportunity to review any marketing materials that incorporate the Xcel Energy logo or reference any of the company’s products or services? Yes No If no, please explain. 11. Is there anything else you would like us to consider when evaluating your application? Customer declaration I certify that the information in this application is accurate and complete and I am authorized to make this application on behalf of my community. Your signature confirms your community is interested in participating in Partners in Energy and is willing to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with Xcel Energy that will define responsibilities and expectations of both parties. Community name Contact name Title By checking the box and indicating my name below, I am signing this application in declaration of its accuracy. Name Title xcelenergy.com | © 2023 Xcel Energy Inc. | Xcel Energy is a registered trademark of Xcel Energy Inc. | 23-10-507 I would like to know if you can provide examples of other MN cities participating in the program because I intend on using Coon Rapids' Energy Action Plan to show the City Council how this program can be used and the more examples of how other cities have implemented actions would be incredibly helpful in visioning our participation. City of Columbia Heights Andrew Boucher City Planner Andrew Boucher City Planner 64 Item 2. ITEM: Designation of Legal Newspaper for 2024. DEPARTMENT: Administration BY/DATE: Sara Ion / December 13, 2023 CORE CITY STRATEGIES: (please indicate areas that apply by adding an “X” in front of the selected text below) _Healthy and Safe Community _ Equitable, Diverse, Inclusive, and Friendly _ Trusted and Engaged Leadership _Thriving and Vibrant Destination Community _ Strong Infrastructure and Public Services _ Sustainable BACKGROUND: Annually the City Council designates an official newspaper for publishing legal notices and other required publications. The City Charter Chapter 12, Section 10 and State Statute 331A addresses the requirements of a legal newspaper, some of the requirements include that the newspaper: • Be published at least twice a month. • Be registered with the Secretary of State’s office. • Be circulated in the political subdivision which it purports to serve. • Have its known office of issue established in either the county in which it lies, or the political subdivision which the newspaper purports to serve. • File a copy of each issue immediately with the State Historical Society. • Submit to the secretary of state by December 31 a filing containing the newspaper’s name, address of its known office of issue, telephone number, and a statement that it has complied with all of the requirements of this section and paid the fee. • It shall annually designate a newspaper of general circulation in the city as the official paper in which shall be published such measures and matters as are by the constitution and laws of this state required to be so published, and such other mat ters as the council may deem it wise to have published in this matter, or in lieu thereof it may establish a municipal publication, which shall then be the official newspaper. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: City staff recommends moving forward with designating Life as the official newspaper for 2023. The bid from Life indicates that the prices for publication and service details have a small increase of .25 cents per column inch (for a total of $11.25 per column inch) per first insertion and .50 cents per column in ch per subsequent insertions (for a total of $7.50 per column inch) this is the first increase since a more intensive analysis was completed for Council review and approval of the 2021 official newspaper. ATTACHMENT(S): CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION AGENDA SECTION CONSENT AGENDA MEETING DATE JANUARY 2, 2024 65 Item 5. 66 Item 5. Thank you for the opportunity to bid on the public notice publications for City of Columbia Heights. The Saint Paul Pioneer Press is a Daily Newspaper located in Saint Paul, MN, primarily serving Ramsey, Dakota, Washington, and Anoka counties and Western Wisconsin. Our Legal Publication rates for all notices for 2024 are as follows: $7.28 per column inch per publication (this = $0.52 per line, there are 14 lines per column inch) Sunday full circulation is 136,492 – however, you may publish a notice on any day of the week. Deadline to submit legal notices (please note, holidays will have early deadlines): Deadlines for Liner (text only) ads. Publication day Deadline to submit materials Monday Friday 4 pm Tuesday Monday 12 pm Wednesday Tuesday 12 pm Thursday Wednesday 12 pm Friday Thursday 12 pm Saturday Friday 11 am Sunday Thursday 4 pm All legal notices should be emailed to legals@pioneerpress.com. Once we receive your request, you’ll receive a confirmation email and will be contacted shortly. You will be emailed a proof (which includes the cost) and an affidavit will be emailed within 7 days of publication. Thank you for considering the Saint Paul Pioneer Press as the official legal newspaper for City of Columbia Heights. Please let me know if you have any questions, we look forward to partnering with you in the coming year. Thank you, True Lee – Advertising tlee@pioneerpress.com Deadlines for Display ads. Notice includes chart, graphics, map, or any special formatting. Publication day Deadline to submit materials. Monday Friday 3 pm Tuesday Monday 11 am Wednesday Tuesday 11 am Thursday Wednesday 11 am Friday Thursday 11 am Saturday Friday 10 am Sunday Thursday 3 pm 67 Item 5. From:Deleeuw, Elizabeth To:Sara Ion Subject:RE: City of Columbia Heights / Legal Notice placement question Date:Tuesday, November 7, 2023 8:06:33 AM Attachments:image001.png Hi Sara. My name is Liz Deleeuw and Connor and I work together at Star Tribune. Thank you for your reply! We will be emailing a communication within the next few weeks but so you have the information early (below). Feel free to contact me directly anytime and hope to work with you and Columbia Heights in 2024! 2024 Designated Legal Newspaper Rates $1.58 per line per day, Approximately $17.90 per column inch. 12 lines per column inch. Notices are charged per line not per column inch, so you are not paying for space you are not using. Pricing applies to legal notices/public hearing notices only . Placement: · Minnesota Statute 412.831 requires annual designation of an official newspaper. Star Tribune is a qualified legal newspaper publishing legal notices 7 days per week. Primary areas served: Anoka County, Ramsey County, Dakota County, Hennepin County, Scott County, Carver County, Wright County, and Sherburne County. Legal notices will also run on startribune.com at no extra charge. Legal Notices will also run on the MNA Public Notice website included in the cost, a requirement for the State of Minnesota. https://www.mnpublicnotice.com Deadlines (applies to placement, changes & cancellations): Two days prior to first publication date at 4pm CST. Publication Date Deadline: Monday: Friday 4pm Tuesday: Friday 4pm Wednesday: Monday 4pm Thursday: Tuesday 4pm Friday: Wednesday 4pm Saturday: Thursday 4pm Sunday: Friday 4pm 68 Item 5. • Legal display deadlines are advanced 24-48 hours. • Deadlines will be advanced for holidays/special occasions. Affidavits: Emailed 24-48 business hours after last publication date. Circulation • Sunday ~206,724 • Monday ~98,486 • Tuesday ~98,486 • Wednesday ~98,486 • Thursday ~98,486 • Friday ~98,486 • Saturday ~98,486 Contact • Email: placeads@startribune.com • Call: 612-673-7000 Liz Deleeuw Star Tribune Account Executive – Legals, Classifieds, Employment 612-743-0133 elizabeth.deleeuw@startribune.com From: Sara Ion <SIon@columbiaheightsmn.gov> Sent: Monday, November 6, 2023 11:24 AM To: Olsen, Connor <Connor.Olsen@startribune.com> Subject: RE: City of Columbia Heights / Legal Notice placement question Connor: Thank you for reaching out. The City of Columbia Heights currently uses APG for publishing: The following rate structure for legals is effectiveJanuary 1, 2024: First insertion: $11.50 per column inch Subsequent insertions: $7.25per column inch Characters per inch: 320 Lines per inch: 9 A notarized affidavit is provided for each notice published. All published legal notices are postedon the abcnewspapers.com website at no additional charge. 69 Item 5. We would love to know your rates for 2024, and publishing deadlines. Best, Sara From: Olsen, Connor <Connor.Olsen@startribune.com> Sent: Tuesday, October 31, 2023 1:45 PM To: Sara Ion <SIon@columbiaheightsmn.gov> Subject: City of Columbia Heights / Legal Notice placement question Good afternoon, Sara. This is Connor Olsen with the Star Tribune. We are currently evaluating our rates and offerings for 2024, and reaching out to Cities in which Star Tribune is considered a qualified legal newspaper for legal ad placement. What newspaper are you currently working with? Also, what is your line rate? What are the most important factors when choosing a Legal newspaper? Please feel free to email me an RFP, questions, or an example of a legal notice so that I can provide you with a quote. Our goal: simplify the Legal Notice placement process with fair rates and timely turnaround. Thanks, Connor Connor Olsen Advertising - Sales Cell: (651) 408-3888 70 Item 5. Disclaimer: Information in this message or attachment may be government data and thereby subject to the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act; may be subject to attorney-client or work product privilege; may be confidential, privileged, proprietary, or otherwise protected. The unauthorized review, copying, retransmission, or other use or disclosure of the information is strictly prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient of this message, please immediately notify the sender of the transmission error and then promptly delete this message from your computer system. 71 Item 5. ITEM: Council Liaison Board and Commission Appointments for 2024. DEPARTMENT: Administration BY/DATE: Kevin Hansen/ December 13, 2023 CORE CITY STRATEGIES: (please indicate areas that apply by adding an “X” in front of the selected text below) _Healthy and Safe Community _ Equitable, Diverse, Inclusive, and Friendly X Trusted and Engaged Leadership _Thriving and Vibrant Destination Community _ Strong Infrastructure and Public Services _ Sustainable BACKGROUND: The City Council Board and Commission Liaison appointments are made annually at the first meeting in January. The enclosed draft assignment form was created by the Mayor and Interim City Manager for Council discussion at the January 2nd work session. Following discussion and direction, staff will prepare the formal appointment resolution for action at the January 8th meeting. Per City Council censure, Councilmember Jacobs has not been appointed as a liaison to any Commissions or Boards. ATTACHMENT(S): Draft Council Assignments CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION AGENDA SECTION CONSENT AGENDA MEETING DATE JANUARY 2, 2024 72 Item 6. DRAFT 2024 Commission and Board Liaison Appointments 2023 Appointment 2024 Appointment Library Board Spriggs Park & Recreation Márquez Simula Sustainability Buesgens Planning Commission Buesgens Charter Commission James Youth Commission Márquez Simula School Board Spriggs James League of MN Cities James Buesgens Metro Cities Spriggs Buesgens MWMO Buesgens Hilltop Rice Creek Watershed James Hansen JLEC Márquez Simula Austin Fire Protection Council Márquez Simula Bourgeois Council President Buesgens 73 Item 6. ITEM: Select Date for 2024 Local Board of Appeal & Equalization Meeting. DEPARTMENT: Administration BY/DATE: Kevin Hansen/ December 13, 2023 CORE CITY STRATEGIES: (please indicate areas that apply by adding an “X” in front of the selected text below) _Healthy and Safe Community _ Equitable, Diverse, Inclusive, and Friendly X Trusted and Engaged Leadership _Thriving and Vibrant Destination Community X Strong Infrastructure and Public Services _ Sustainable BACKGROUND: Anoka County has requested that Columbia Heights select a first and second choice for dates for a Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting to be held between April 1st and May 31st 2024. Traditionally the hearing is held on a Monday evening prior to a City Council meeting. At minimum one of the three members of the Council who are trained to complete these meetings will need to be available to attend. Currently Mayor Márquez Simula, Councilmember Buesgens and Jacobs are trained through 7/1/2024. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: The following dates are available according to the scheduled 2024 Council meetings: April 8th, 22nd and May 13th. It would be best to offer the first two dates in April and use the date in May as a backup option if the first two dates are already spoken for. ATTACHMENT: Correspondence from Anoka County CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION AGENDA SECTION CONSENT AGENDA MEETING DATE JANUARY 2, 2024 74 Item 7. 024 Board of Appeal and Equalization Date Request Form City or Town: Proposed Date, Time, and Location of Local Board of Appeals and Equalization Meeting: Date: Time: Location: (Please provide name and address) Proposed Date, Time, and Location of Local Board of Appeals and Equalization Meeting: Date: Time: Location: (Please provide name and address) Name of person completing this form: Title: Phone Number: Email: PLEASE SEND COMPLETED FORMS BY EMAIL TO: Lisa.Schultz@co.anoka.mn.us BY MONDAY, JANUARY 22, 2024 75 Item 7. 1 Sara Ion From:Lisa Schultz <Lisa.Schultz@anokacountymn.gov> Sent:Thursday, December 7, 2023 10:46 AM To:Sara Ion Subject:**MS Office doc** FW: LBAE meeting date request Attachments:LBAE Date request form.docx Good Morning‐ Once again it is time to start planning for the upcoming 2024 LBAE Attached you will find the 2024 Local Board of Appeal and Equalization Meeting Date Request Form. Please enter your 1st and 2nd choices for the date of your opening meeting of your Board of Appeal and Equalization. Both of your choices must fall between the dates of Monday April 1, 2024 and Friday May 31, 2024. Any weeknight within that date range is available except for April 25, 2024 due to a scheduled system outage. In rare instances we may not be able to accommodate your requests; If this should happen, we will contact you directly to determine the next best alternative date. Please fill out the necessary fields including the date, time and location for your city and the return this form no later than Monday, January 22nd. If you would please send confirmation of the reception of this email as soon as possible to ensure your form has been received it would be greatly appreciated. If I have not heard from you by Friday, January 26th, I will follow up with an additional email and/or phone call at that time. As a reminder, Minnesota law requires that at least one member of each board must have completed training provided by the Department of Revenue within the last four years. Though, the department recommends that all members of the board complete training. • The training is offered online through the Department of Revenue website https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/board‐ appeal‐and‐equalization‐training. A board member must complete the training by February 1 of the year in which appeals will be heard. If you should have any questions at all, please give me a call and I will assist you in any way that I can. Thank you ‐ Lisa B. Schultz Assessment Support Manager Anoka County Assessors Office Lisa.Schultz@Co.Anoka.MN.US (763) 324‐1189 2100 3rd Avenue, Suite 160 Anoka, MN 55303 Lisa Schultz Assessment Support Manager 76 Item 7. 2 NOTICE: Unless restricted by law, email correspondence to and from Anoka County government offices may be public data subject to the Minnesota Data Practices Act and/or may be disclosed to third parties. 77 Item 7.