Minutes - Environmental Policy Board - 12/01/2014

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5.03: Consider Recommendation of Best Management Practices for Landscape Plan, Storm water Plan, and Energy Efficient Design for Fire Station No. 2 Replacement to be Located at 5650 Alpine Dr NW; Case of the City of Ramsey City Planner Anderson presented the staff report. He described the location of Fire Station No. 2 and reported that it would be a multi -purpose facility providing space for the on -call fire department and Allina Health Emergency Medical Services. He stated that the plan has not been approved by the City Council and that it is in the review process. He stated that it is not often that the City has a public improvement project of this nature and he wanted to route it through the Board to review the landscaping, storm water, and energy efficiency components of the project, and get recommendations and feedback. City Planner Anderson stated the City has made some recommendations for potential BMPs that could be incorporated so it could serve as a demonstration project for potential developers. City Planner Anderson reported there is a strong desire to keep a maintained appearance along Helium Street and along Alpine Drive and there is an agreement in concept to convert more of the storm pond area south of the property to a natural prairie setting; to consider ribbon curbing; to change out some of the tree species; to look at energy efficient systems; and, to utilize LED lighting both exterior and interior. He also spoke about sensor requirements for the irrigation system. Board Member Valentine asked if BMPs are memorialized. City Planner Anderson replied that there is not a set of adopted BMPs for the City. Board Member Bentz asked if ideas were taken from the GreenSteps Program with regard to this proj ect. City Planner Anderson answered that the GreenSteps Program was not referenced. Board Member Valentine asked where the City is on the process of working on BMPs related to storm water management. City Planner Anderson replied that it is in the exploratory phase. Board Member Valentine suggested that all rain garden or low water requirement planting opportunities be explored. City Planner Anderson stated that the type of sod could also be considered to achieve a sustainable landscape with a manicured appearance. Chairperson Stodola suggested using the new data from the recent study the City did on topsoil. Board Member Bentz asked if the City considered the sight triangle on all of their plans. City Planner Anderson stated that the City uses a vision clearance triangle that is applied at intersections of roadways and commercial driveways. He explained the concept. Environmental Policy Board / December 1, 2014 Page 10 of 12