Sean and Steve from Resilient Cities and Communities (RCC) led a detailed presentation on the importance of establishing a robust foundation for sustainability and climate initiatives. Their emphasis on the necessity of involving citizen volunteers, elected leaders, and staff support in environmental actions set the stage for a broader discussion on regional climate collaboration. They highlighted the Electrify Everything campaign, promoting the use of electric appliances and vehicles bolstered by significant federal tax credits. Sean stressed the urgency of coordinated efforts to maximize the impact of sustainability projects, stating, “if you’re missing one of the three parts of the tripod… you can’t move anything.”

The RCC representatives also discussed the successful Gold Leaf program in Vadnais Heights, where a community-wide adopted drain program, led by over 100 volunteers, demonstrated effective grassroots environmental action. They suggested forming a similar coalition in Washington County to enhance collaborative climate actions, emphasizing that a unified message from multiple organizations could influence local climate policy.

The meeting also addressed the challenges cities face with implementing climate action plans, particularly in the areas of accountability and funding. An upcoming event on September 25th at the Minneapolis College Skyway Lounge, featuring Kate Canth from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, was announced. This event aims to update the state’s climate action framework and gather input on accelerating city-level actions. It will provide an opportunity for attendees to engage with Washington County Commissioners and representatives from various cities to discuss collaborative climate efforts.

Electric vehicle charging infrastructure emerged as a significant topic, with frustrations voiced over the lack of charging stations in areas like Stillwater. This limitation restricts electric car users from fully utilizing local amenities. The discussion also included improving bike and pedestrian access, particularly across Highway 36, and enhancing bike lanes during road repaving projects. These improvements aim to foster a more sustainable and accessible urban environment.

The commission discussed innovative stormwater management techniques being explored in Woodbury, where runoff is captured for irrigation, particularly for golf courses, to reduce groundwater extraction. The need for a collective approach to environmental initiatives was underscored, with suggestions for cities to collaborate on projects like the Adopt-a-Drain program and tree planting efforts. The importance of a unified trail program across jurisdictions was also highlighted, given that trails often transcend city borders.

Concerns about future road conversions to accommodate bike lanes and improve safety were raised, alongside the potential for flooding due to rising water tables. Suggestions included collaborating with watershed districts to reassess flood zones and enhance homeowner education on managing basement water issues. Tree management and diversification in Oakdale, particularly in response to the emerald ash borer, were also discussed, with the city forester playing a role in these efforts.

The meeting also touched upon leveraging the Metropolitan Council’s resources to assess carbon footprints and develop climate mitigation strategies. Participants suggested incorporating more climate-related elements into the upcoming 2050 comprehensive plans, focusing on zoning and development around new transit corridors like the Gold Line bus rapid transit. Increasing population density near transit stations was highlighted as a way to accommodate residents, particularly seniors transitioning from single-family homes.

Updates on a new affordable housing project near the city center were provided, emphasizing the importance of not relying on natural gas for heating in new developments. The commission encouraged developers to use air-source heat pumps instead. The ongoing monitoring of carbon emissions and utilizing resources from the Metropolitan Council to guide city actions were reiterated.

The commission also discussed organizing a Meetup with other environmental commissions across the county to facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration. Potential dates in September or October were considered. An initiative to promote the “Electrify Everything” campaign and a guidebook for greener practices in new developments were introduced.

A citywide fall cleanup event was announced for September 21st, providing residents an opportunity to dispose of bulky items and electronics that are difficult to recycle. The event will take place at the Oakdale Public Works facility, with fees charged for most items. Additional communication will be disseminated through social media and the Oakdale update newsletter.

Progress on the Willowbrook Commons Park and the retail developments in the Forefront area, including Aldi and Starbucks, were also mentioned. An update on the home energy squad audits emphasized the continued availability of rebates for these programs, encouraging residents to take advantage of the opportunity.