2016-10-25_PWETC_Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Environmental Specialist Johnson committed to also talk to the city's Communications Department seeking a more robust promotion plan. Member Wozniak suggested having Public Works Department crews,normally out and about within the community, promote the survey to the public as well, especially since they were often on the front line as issues came up. Chair Cihacek suggested a subset of data for city staff, City Council, other advisory commissions, and PWETC survey responses that would complement the public data to determine shared patterns. Ms. Nestingen continued her presentation as she reviewed each Goal as outlined in Attachment A, seeking PWETC feedback on the current plan and any updates or changes they'd like for those current seven goals. Goal 1 - Flood Protection and Runoff Management Discussion on this goal included whether or not these goals, last updated and/or established in 2013, were still adequate; recognizing the city had done made considerable improvements over the last few years, and what additional monies and projects are under consideration in the next ten-year cycle; and city goals versus using this plan as a steering document for the next ten years. At the request of Chair Cihacek, Mr. Johnson clarified that a number of the items identified in sections of the plan were by reference either statutory or incorporated from other agencies (e.g. DNR or watershed districts), basically serving as an overlay stormwater district to meet their requirements and any applicable criteria to do so; with the city using those references to build its own ordinance. Ms. Nestingen noted that the city's ordinance could be more restrictive versus a standard boiler plate(e.g. elevation changes and high water levels of a water body) beyond meeting the minimum DNR suggestions (e.g. "free-boarding" minimums at 1' versus other communities choosing to be more restrictive at 2'). Mr. Johnson further noted that the city's current minimum is 2' while the Capitol Region Watershed District's minimum is 3'. Member Lenz noted a number of these things are incomprehensible to the average, single-family homeowners; and suggested something be added to define city goals, applicable policies, and how those affect the average resident without so much technical jargon. For instance, with the popularity and value of rain gardens or other stormwater management options, Member Lenz suggested making the goals more interesting and personal; and alerting residents to city assistance and rationale for them helping the city achieve those goals for their broader benefit. Mr. Johnson duly noted that suggestion. Page 12 of 20