8B, Resilient Communities Project

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�I i I professionals and students in other programs and fields of study. The University of Minnesota calculates the value of work produced through the project at approximately $175,000. RCP program administrators work closely with the selected community to ensure that each selected project has a clear scope of work and concrete deliverable in order to ensure a high value return for the community. The City of Minnetonka was selected to participate in the RCP pilot program for the 2012-2013 academic year. While they have only completed half of their projects and coursework, Minnetonka staff have indicated they have been impressed with the quality of the work that they have received from University students. Application Process Applications to participate in the RCP program are due February 15th. As part of the application process, communities are asked to identify 15-30 projects that might be included. Not all projects will be a good fit, but the intent is to provide a broad enough list of projects that most will fit into the program. A project's scope is limited by the timeline of the program. The selected community will participate in the 2013-2014 academic year and work with courses over both semesters. Project deliverables will likely be completed at the end of each semester. Staff has prepared a list of 19 projects to include as part of our application (Attached). Projects generally fall into three categories: • Projects directly related to TCAAP, taken from the Master Plan RFP that, if Arden Hills was selected to participate in RCP, would reduce the cost of the consultant contract to complete the Master Plan. • House-keeping projects that have a City-wide impact and need to be completed; however, are only indirectly related to TCAAP and not included in the Master Plan RFP. • Projects that would add value to the City if the City had more resources to complete them, but are not imperative to City operation. In addition, Ramsey County Administration has identified a project related to the creation of a strategic communications plan for the TCAAP redevelopment project that is related to an existing project Kate Knuth is working on with the Humphrey School of Public Affairs. Communities are asked to identify a project lead for each project. The project lead will work with the program administrator and the professor(s) of the matched course to guide the scope of work and the project as needed. Staff time obligations will vary depending on the unique needs of each project; however, at a minimum, the staff project leader will meet with program administrators and the course professor at least once prior to the beginning of the project to narrow and clarify the scope of work. Periodic check-ins with the class may be necessary, and the project lead will likely attend any final class presentations related to the project. In addition, City of Arden Hills February 11, 2013, Regular Council Meeting Page 2 of 5