Agenda - Planning Commission - 01/08/2015

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METROPOLITAN COUNCIL FACTS Fostering a prosperous region The Metropolitan Council plans for the future of the seven -county Minneapolis -St. Paul metro area in partnership with 189 communities. We provide cost-effective transit and wastewater services, and assist communities as they plan for anticipated growth. Our mission is to foster efficient and economic growth for a prosperous metropolitan region. The Council's current priorities include: • Create a financially sustainable, 21st century transportation system • Promote dynamic housing opportunities for all • Leverage investments that drive regional economic development Supporting the region's economic vitality The Council's planning and services provides a foundation for regional economic vitality. The Council: • Operates Metro Transit, which carried 81.4 million bus and rail passengers in 2013, and wins awards for innovation and efficiency • Makes strategic investments in a growing network of bus and rail transitways, and transit -oriented development • Collects and treats wastewater for 90% of the region's population at rates 45% lower than peer regions, and earns state and national awards for environmental achievements • Plans and funds acquisition and development of a world-class regional parks and trails system that attracts 47 million visitors a year. • Provides affordable housing opportunities for about 6,400 low- and moderate -income households How the Council is governed The Council was established by the Minnesota Legislature in 1967. Our jurisdiction comprises the counties of Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott and Washington. The Council's governing board has 17 members; they are appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the governor. Sixteen members represent geographic districts of roughly equal population across the region. The Council chair, the 17th member, serves at large. The current Council Chair is Susan Haigh, CEO of Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity and a former Ramsey County Commissioner. The role of Council members is to provide a regional perspective and work toward a regional consensus on issues facing the metropolitan area. All meetings of the Council and its subcommittees are open to the public. The Council develops, in cooperation with local communities, a Regional Development Framework, a set of policies to guide the efficient growth of the region and help maintain the region's economic competitiveness. Council staff is organized in four major divisions that focus on: transportation planning; transit operations; wastewater treatment and water supply and quality; and community development. Administrative and service units support all major divisions. www.metrocouncil.org METROPOLITAN COUNCIL