--- ## author: Linnea Graffunder-Bartels date: D:20260514112049-05'00' --- ## AGENDA ## Environmental Management Commission ## The next regular Environmental Management Commission meeting will occur on June 15, 2026. ## REGULAR MEETING May 18, 2026 ## 7:00 PM ## Oakdale Hadley Conference Room ## 1. CALL TO ORDER ## 2. CALL OF ROLL ## 3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ## 4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA ## 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. March 16, 2026 ## 6. OPEN FORUM ## a. Guest Presentation – LHB (Community-Wide Greenhouse Gas Emissions Data) ## 7. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION REVIEW ## a. OLD BUSINESS ## i. 2026 Eco Fair Recap ## b. NEW BUSINESS ## i. Wetland and Water Resource Education Campaign ## 8. OTHER ## a. Staff Liaison Update(s) ## i. 2026 EMC Editorial Calendar ## ii. Community Development Update(s)* ## b. Commissioner Update(s)* ## c. Council Liaison Update(s)* ## 9. ADJOURNMENT *Items marked with an asterisk have no accompanying materials. ## REGULAR MEETING ## OAKDALE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION ## MARCH 16, 2026 ## CALL TO ORDER The Oakdale Environmental Management Commission (EMC) held a meeting on Monday, March 16, 2026 at Oakdale City Hall, 1584 Hadley Avenue North, Oakdale, Minnesota. The meeting began at 7:00 PM. ## CALL OF ROLL On a call of roll, the following were present: ## Commissioners: Noah Gerding, Chairperson ## Justin Brendon ## Laura Fenstermaker ## Katie Lasch ## Chang Yang ## Not Present: Tim Doolittle, Vice Chairperson ## Keegan Anderson, Commissioner ## Also Present: Kevin Zabel, Mayor and City Council Liaison Hannah Dunn, Sr. Community Development Specialist and City Staff ## Liaison ## Quorum Present: YES ☒ NO ☐ ## PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ## APPROVAL OF AGENDA ## A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER FENSTERMAKER, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER ## LASCH, TO APPROVE THE AGENDA OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 16, 2026 AS ## PRESENTED. ## 5 AYES ## 0 NAYS ## MOTION CARRIED ## APPROVAL OF MINUTES ## A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER LASCH, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER ## FENSTERMAKER, TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF FEBRUARY 9, ## 2026 AS WRITTEN. ## REGULAR MEETING MINUTES ## ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION ## MARCH 16, 2026 ## 5 AYES ## 0 NAYS ## MOTION CARRIED ## OPEN FORUM Chair Gerding invited comments from the audience. No comments were heard. ## ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION REVIEW ## a. OLD BUSINESS ## i. 2026 Eco Fair Update Staff Liaison Dunn provided an update on the status of planning for the 2026 Eco Fair. She then requested input on materials and resources to have at the City of Oakdale and Environmental Management Commission table. There was conversation about whether there were volunteer opportunities to promote at the table. Mayor Zabel suggested having materials about the loan opportunities for home improvements, including diseased tree removal and energy efficiency upgrades, through the Washington County Community Development Agency (CDA). The City of Oakdale has partnered with the Washington County CDA to offer forgivable loans. Commissioner Lasch asked whether there were programs like Adopt-a-Drain that Oakdale endorses and promotes. Mayor Zabel responded that the City could promote the City-Wide Clean Up Event on Saturday, September 19. Commissioner Lasch inquired about the Just Serve volunteer platform and suggested that the City share this at the event. Overall, there was agreement among Commissioners that the table should focus on ways that residents can get involved or support environmental efforts and initiatives. In response to Commissioner Brendon’s question about family-friendly offerings, Dunn said that there will be activities, though they are still being finalized. Mayor Zabel suggested that the City has a small takeaway for attendees, such as a pot with seeds. In response to Mayor Zabel’s question about where leftover Clothing Swap items are going, Dunn stated that she is reaching out to organizations such as Joseph’s Coat to determine whether they can accept donations. ## REGULAR MEETING MINUTES ## ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION ## MARCH 16, 2026 Mayor Zabel offered to connect City staff with an Independent School District 622 social worker at Tartan High School to help share the Clothing Swap opportunity. ## b. NEW BUSINESS i. 2026 Adopt-a-Drain Schedule Staff Liaison Dunn reviewed the 2026 Adopt-a-Drain schedule and offered Commissioners an opportunity to ask questions. ii. City Code of Ordinances, Chapter 24 – Management of Turf Grass and ## Vegetation Staff Liaison Dunn reviewed Chapter 24 in Oakdale’s City Code of Ordinances and relevant language in Minnesota State Statute related to managed natural landscapes. It was requested that Commissioners provide feedback on whether the Code should have any parameters. There was discussion among the Commission about the difference between noxious weeds, nuisance weeds, and native plantings. Mayor Zabel brought up that the City is looking to convert turf grass in some parks to native plantings. In response to Chair Gerding’s question about Code language regarding who maintains boulevards adjacent to City-owned property, Dunn stated that the City maintains these areas per a standard operating policy. The Commission came to the consensus that there should not be guardrails around native plantings, aside from height restrictions in the right of way in order to maintain safe sight lines. They also recommended removal of the requirement to submit alternate landscape plans to the City for approval. ## OTHER ## i. Staff Liaison Update(s) The monthly Editorial Calendar themes for March, April, and May were discussed. Staff Liaison Dunn also shared a few general updates. • Commissioner Anderson is resigning from the Environmental Management Commission. • PlugShare, ChargeHub, and the Department of Energy have resources to track electric vehicle charging infrastructure in Oakdale. • The Council directed City staff to shorten and refine the EMC work plan to remove operational functions and activities. ## REGULAR MEETING MINUTES ## ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION ## MARCH 16, 2026 • The May 18 meeting will take place at City Hall. This will be the last meeting for the Commission before the building is closed for construction. Future meetings will take place at the Discovery Center until construction is completed. ## ii. Commissioner Update(s)* In response to Chair Gerding’s question regarding another development bus tour, Dunn informed the Commission that she believes one will again be held. She will connect with her colleagues and follow up with the Commission. Chair Gerding then shared that he has been researching and compiling information and ordinance language regarding curb cuts. ## iii. Council Liaison Update(s)* Mayor Zabel updated the Commission about various items: • The Council would like the EMC work plan to be one page and focus on goals for 2026. • The Council has asked City staff to look into wetland outlet ownership by the City. • The City has been working through the interview process for the new City Administrator. ## NEXT MEETING DATE The next meeting of the EMC will be Monday, May 18, 2026 in the Hadley Room at City Hall. ## ADJOURNMENT ## A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER FENSTERMAKER, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER ## LASCH, TO ADJOURN THE MARCH 16, 2026 REGULAR MEETING OF THE OAKDALE ## ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION AT 8:25 PM. ## 5 AYES ## 0 NAYS ## MOTION CARRIED ## Meeting Adjourned Respectfully submitted, ## Hannah Dunn ## Sr. Community Development Specialist ## TO: Environmental Management Commission ## FROM: Hannah Dunn, Sr. Community Development Specialist DATE: May 18, 2026 SUBJ: Guest Presentation – LHB (Community-Wide Greenhouse Gas Emissions ## Data) ## BACKGROUND In 2025, the City of Oakdale received a Local Climate Action (LCA) Planning Grant from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) to support design and planning efforts for a trail gap on 50 th Street N. As part of the grant, the MPCA contracted with LHB – a local architecture, engineering, and planning firm – to update community-wide greenhouse gas emissions data for grant recipients through the Regional Indicators Initiative. LHB completed the analysis and data through 2024 is now available for Oakdale. At the May 18, 2026 Environmental Management Commission meeting, LHB staff will provide a virtual presentation summarizing the data and key findings. The presentation slides are attached and an interactive version of the slide deck is available online. When accessing the online presentation, choose “Oakdale” from the “Select Community” dropdown. ## COMMISSION ACTION REQUESTED This is educational for the Environmental Management Commission. No action or feedback requested. ## Attachment ## Regional Indicators Initiative – Oakdale Slides 1234567891011121314151617181920 ## IMPORTANCE OF THIS WORK Climate change is impacng Minnesotans. Acng now will help us protect our communies and natural resources. 1234567891011121314151617181920 ## METRICS ENERGY (BTUs): electricity, gas, and other heang fuels consumed citywide (subdivided into residenal and commercial/industrial) ## Source: Energy u li es for gas and electricity, MPCA and U.S. American Community Survey for other fuels TRAVEL (VEHICLE MILES TRAVELED): on-road distance traveled within city limits ## Source: Minnesota Department of Transporta on WASTE (SHORT TONS): household and business trash handled through recycling, burning for energy, and burying in landfills. Citywide numbers are esmated based on county data. ## Source: Minnesota Pollu ## on Control Agency ## GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS (METRIC TONS CO2e): citywide greenhouse gas emissions associated with energy, vehicle travel, and waste disposal Includes: carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide Excludes: biogenic emissions regionalindicatorsmn.com ## Explore the Regional Indicators methodology 1234567891011121314151617181920 ## SCOPE 87 communies with 1+ years of complete data ## A ## B ## C-D ## E-F ## G-H ## I-L ## M ## N ## O-R ## S ## T-Z ## Andover, Apple Valley, Arden Hills, Arlington, Ausn Belle Plaine, Bemidji, Big Lake, Blaine, Bloomington, Brainerd, Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Burnsville ## Circle Pines, Columbia Heights, Coon Rapids, Crookston, Crystal, Duluth ## Eagan, Eden Prairie, Edina, Elk River, Falcon Heights, Fridley ## Gem Lake, Golden Valley, Grand Marais, Hasngs, Hopkins, Hutchinson ## Inver Grove Heights, Isan, Jordan, Lake Elmo, Lauderdale, Lexington, Li=le Canada Mahtomedi, Mankato, Maplewood, Marine on St. Croix, Minneapolis, Minnetonka, Moorhead, Morris, Mounds View ## New Brighton, New Germany, Newport, Nisswa, North Mankato, North Oaks, North Saint Paul, Northfield Oak Park Heights, Oakdale, Orono, Ramsey County, Red Wing, Richfield, Robbinsdale, Rochester, Rosemount, Roseville, Royalton Saint Anthony Village, St. Louis Park, Saint Paul, St. Paul Park, Shoreview, South St. Paul, Spring Lake Park, Sllwater, Sunfish Lake Thief River Falls, Vadnais Heights, Victoria, Warren, Wayzata, West Saint Paul, White Bear Lake, White Bear Township, Willmar, Winona, Woodbury 1234567891011121314151617181920 ## Li=le Canada ## Arden Hills ## Vadnais Heights ## Lauderdale ## Oakdale ## Shoreview ## Golden Valley ## Minnetonka ## Gem Lake ## New Brighton ## Roseville ## Mounds View ## Maplewood ## Spring Lake Park ## Ramsey County ## Saint Louis Park ## White Bear Lake ## White Bear Township ## Blaine ## Crystal ## North Saint Paul ## Sllwater ## Saint Anthony Village ## Circle Pines ## Rochester ## Thief River Falls ## North Oaks ## Crookston 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% % of total emissions ## Commercial/Industrial EnergyResidenal EnergyTravelWaste ## GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS BREAKDOWN .. Breakdowns vary by city. Tracking your own data over me ma=ers most. 1234567891011121314151617181920 ## Energy 43% ## Waste 2% ## Travel 54% ## GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS Oakdale - 2024 54% of the community's GHG footprint is from vehicle travel. Priorize strategies for reducing local travel. 1234567891011121314151617181920 200720082009201020112012201320142015201620172018201920202021202220232024 ## 0K ## 50K ## 100K ## 150K ## 200K ## 250K ## 300K metric tons CO2e ## GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS ## Oakdale ## Building EnergyVehicle TravelWasteTotal Emissions Greenhouse gas emissions have decreased by 23% since 2007. Build on this momentum. Due to ulity privacy policies, a large business customer was excluded from gas data in 2007-2017 and 2019-2021; and from electricity data in 2007. 1234567891011121314151617181920 200820102012201420162018202020222024 ## 0K ## 20K ## 40K ## 60K ## 80K ## 100K ## 120K metric tons CO2e Res. (-65%) ## Com/Ind (-60%) ## ELECTRICITY (-62%) 200820102012201420162018202020222024 Res. (-13%) ## Com/Ind (+30%) ## HEATING FUELS (+0%) 200820102012201420162018202020222024 ## TRAVEL (-1%) 200820102012201420162018202020222024 ## WASTE (+15%) Emissions have dropped in some sectors and increased in others. Keep pushing electricity while finding long-term soluons for gas and travel. Due to ulity privacy policies, a large business customer was excluded from gas data in 2007-2017 and 2019-2021; and from electricity data in 2007. ## GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS ## Oakdale 1234567891011121314151617181920 ## Commercial/Industrial Electricity 24% ## Commercial/Industrial Heang Fuels 22% ## Residenal Heang Fuels 37% ## Residenal Electricity 17% ## ENERGY EMISSIONS Oakdale - 2024 In 2024, more emissions came from heang fuels than electricity. More emissions came from homes than businesses and industry. 1234567891011121314151617181920 200720082009201020112012201320142015201620172018201920202021202220232024 ## 0K ## 10K ## 20K ## 30K ## 40K ## 50K ## 60K ## 70K ## 80K ## 90K ## 100K ## 110K metric tons CO2e ## ENERGY EMISSIONS ## Oakdale ## Heang FuelsElectricity Across Minnesota, heang fuel emissions are an increasingly large percentage of total energy emissions. Switch from gas to electric equipment. Due to ulity privacy policies, a large business customer was excluded from gas data in 2007-2017 and 2019-2021; and from electricity data in 2007. 1234567891011121314151617181920 200620082010201220142016201820202022202420262028203020322034203620382040 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 lbs CO2e/MMBtu ## ENERGY EMISSIONS RATES ## Oakdale Minnesota will have carbon-free electricity by 2040. Communies can support this by invesng in local renewable energy. Electric equipment is more efficient than gas, and cleaner over its lifeme. ## ElectricityGas 1234567891011121314151617181920 200720082009201020112012201320142015201620172018201920202021202220232024 -6% -4% -2% 0% 2% 4% 6% 8% % change from first year Use, -5% ## ELECTRICITY TRENDS ## Oakdale Reduce electricity emissions by using less electricity, from cleaner sources. Due to ulity privacy policies, a large business customer is excluded from 2007 electricity data. Electricity use ## On Electricity emissions rate ## Off Total electricity emissions ## Off 1234567891011121314151617181920 200720082009201020112012201320142015201620172018201920202021202220232024 ## 0K ## 50K ## 100K ## 150K ## 200K ## 250K ## 300K ## 350K ## 400K ## 450K ## MMBtu ## ELECTRICITY USE ## Oakdale ## Commercial/Industrial ElectricityResidenal Electricity Residenal electricity use has decreased by 12% since 2007, and commercial/industrial electricity use has decreased by 15% since 2008. Support addional commercial and residenal efficiency projects. Due to ulity privacy policies, a large business customer is excluded from 2007 electricity data. 1234567891011121314151617181920 200720082009201020112012201320142015201620172018201920202021202220232024 ## 0K ## 100K ## 200K ## 300K ## 400K ## 500K ## 600K ## 700K ## 800K ## 900K thousand MMBtu 0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 6,000 7,000 8,000 9,000 heang degree days ## HEATING FUEL USE ## Oakdale ## Residenal Heang Fuel UseCommercial/Industrial Heang Fuel UseHeang Degree Days Heang fuel use is highly weather-dependent. Weatherize buildings. Due to ulity privacy policies, a large business customer is excluded from gas data between 2007-2017 and 2019-2021. 1234567891011121314151617181920 Energy-efficient homes are small, well-insulated, and use electric heat pumps for heang and cooling. ## Lauderdale ## Saint Anthony Village ## Saint Louis Park ## Li=le Canada ## Roseville ## Spring Lake Park ## Rochester ## New Brighton ## Ramsey County ## Mounds View ## Oakdale ## North Saint Paul ## Maplewood ## Vadnais Heights ## Crystal ## White Bear Lake ## Shoreview ## Thief River Falls ## Golden Valley ## Minnetonka ## Crookston ## Arden Hills ## Blaine ## Circle Pines ## Sllwater ## White Bear Township ## Gem Lake ## North Oaks 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 ## MMBtu ## ENERGY USE PER HOUSEHOLD All communies - 2024 ## Electricity UseOther Heang Fuel UseUlity Gas UseTotal Energy Use 1234567891011121314151617181920 While a lot of vehicle travel is from people passing through, local acon can sll make a difference. 63% 11% 20% 7% ## MILES TRAVELED BY ROAD TYPE Oakdale - 2024 ## Local RoadsCounty RoadsState HighwaysFederal Highways & Interstates 1234567891011121314151617181920 200720082009201020112012201320142015201620172018201920202021202220232024 -5% 0% 5% 10% % change from first year Miles, 10% ## VEHICLE TRAVEL ## Oakdale Travel emissions depend on miles traveled, vehicle efficiency, and fuel type. Accelerate travel reducon and electric vehicle adopon. Miles traveled ## On Emissions per mile ## Off Total travel emissions ## Off 1234567891011121314151617181920 2006200720082009201020112012201320142015201620172018201920202021202220232024 -50% -40% -30% -20% -10% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% % change from first year ## CHANGE IN VEHICLE MILES TRAVELED PER RESIDENT ## Oakdale ## Your CommunityOther Minnesota Communies Travel emissions depend on miles traveled, vehicle efficiency, and fuel type. Accelerate travel reducon and electric vehicle adopon. 1234567891011121314151617181920 200720082009201020112012201320142015201620172018201920202021202220232024 0 1 2 3 4 5 pounds per person per day ## WASTE PER PERSON PER DAY ## Oakdale ## Landfilled Incinerated RecycledTotal Waste The recycling rate has increased over me. Reduce waste while increasing recycling rates. 54% 11% 35% 2024 1234567891011121314151617181920 ## CALL TO ACTION Your community is not alone in this work. To make an even bigger impact: - Make sure all new buildings are meeng code - and older ones are weatherized. - Support electrifying homes, businesses, and vehicles. - Find opportunies to decrease local vehicle travel. ## Minnetonka Climate Acon & Adaptaon Plan: Exisng Policies and Market Trends 1234567891011121314151617181920 ## QUESTIONS? Ingrid Sokup, LHB Inc. ingrid.sokup@lhbcorp.com ## TO: Environmental Management Commission ## FROM: Hannah Dunn, Sr. Community Development Specialist DATE: May 18, 2026 ## SUBJ: 2026 Eco Fair Recap ## BACKGROUND The City of Oakdale hosted its second-annual Eco Fair on Saturday, April 25, 2026 from 9 AM to 1 PM at Castle Elementary School. The main goal of the event was to educate the Oakdale and broader community about a variety of environmental topics. This year, a Clothing Swap was added to encourage reuse, bring the community together, reduce clothing and textile waste, and help meet local clothing needs. In 2025, the Eco Fair drew over 100 people and featured 18 vendors. The 2026 Eco Fair and Clothing Swap saw twice as many people and grew vendor participation to 25. The retention rate of vendors from 2025 to 2026 was strong, with only three 2025 vendors not returning. The 2026 Eco Fair also welcomed 10 new vendors. The full 2026 vendor list is below: ## •All Energy Solar •Center for Energy and Environment ## –Home Energy Squad •Citizens Utility Board (new!) •City of Oakdale / Environmental ## Management Commission •Community Action Partnership of ## Ramsey & Washington Counties (new!) •Drive Electric Minnesota (new!) ## •Food Scraps Pickup Program ## •Gateway Brown’s Creek Trail Association (new!) •Independent School District 622 ## •Maplewood Oakdale Lions Club ## •Minnesota Pollution Control Agency –Get the Lead Out Program (new!) ## •Oakdale Garden Club •Oakdale Wellness 50+ •Pollinator Friendly Alliance (new!) •Rainbow Treecare (new!) •Ramsey-Washington Metro ## Watershed District •Resilient Cities and Communities ## •Rewild Native Gardens •Valley Climate Coalition (new!) •Washington Conservation District / ## East Metro Water Resource ## Education Program •Washington County 4-H ## •Washington County Library, ## Oakdale ## •Washington County Master ## Gardeners (Monarchs, Milkweed, ## and Pollinators Team; Tree Squad ## Team) ## •Washington County Parks Division (new!) •Wild Rivers Conservancy (new!) In addition to exhibitors, family-friendly activities were provided by the City, including seed planting, coloring, and temporary tattoos. Vendors also had engaging activities at their tables such as rock painting and an induction stove top demo. Two Cups food truck was on site, providing coffee and treats for purchase. ## The Clothing Swap collected approximately 2,600 pounds of clothing from the community, with over 75% of the items being taken from the event. Remaining donations were brought to several organizations, including Joseph’s Coat, Sharing & Caring Hands, and Basic Needs. Two volunteers – Katie Lasch (Environmental Management Commissioner) and Glen Bearth (Parks and Recreation Commissioner and Maplewood Oakdale Lions Club member) – spent many hours ahead of and during the event sorting and organizing clothes, setting up the space, assisting attendees, and tearing down. To increase attendance, communications efforts for the 2026 Eco Fair and Clothing Swap were expanded through the following outreach methods and strategies: •City webpage and News Flash announcements •Social media posts •Yard signs throughout the community •Flyer dissemination at City-owned facilities (e.g., City Hall, Discovery Center) and community events (e.g., Indoor Market) •City staff newsletter promotion ## •Cross-promotion at the Arbor Day Tree Giveaway •Listings on the Drive Electric MN event calendar and the Clean Energy Resource Teams event calendar •Promotion through the Oakdale Area Chamber of Commerce Tuesday Tidbits newsletter •Outreach to families and students at four Oakdale Schools: Castle Elementary School, ## Eagle Point Elementary School, Skyview Middle School, Tartan High School •Outreach to assisted living communities in Oakdale •Invitations to Tartan Theater, Stillwater High School Sustainable Fashion Club, and ## Tubman •Promotion through a social worker at Tartan High School The event was made possible by numerous volunteers including Environmental Management Commissioners, Maplewood Oakdale Lions Club members, Tartan High School students, and community members. Both attendees and vendors shared many positive comments about the 2026 Eco Fair and Clothing Swap. Feedback received from vendors is attached. ## COMMISSION ACTION REQUESTED It is requested that the Environmental Management Commission provide feedback about the 2026 Eco Fair and Clothing Swap. Questions for consideration include: What went well at the 2026 Eco Fair and Clothing Swap? Are there ideas for other communications and promotion efforts? What improvements can be made for future events? ## Attachment ## Vendor Feedback on the 2026 Eco Fair ## Vendor Feedback on the 2026 Eco Fair • Vendors felt that everyone who visited left happy and that there were a lot of valuable conversations with attendees. • The Clothing Swap was a good addition to the Eco Fair as the two portions can draw different crowds. One vendor felt that folks from the Clothing Swap would not have attended the info expo but since they were already there, they explored and visited the tables. • Vendors should park in the “authorized parking” area after unloading. Specific parking areas were communicated to vendors ahead of the event. • There was a good variety of organizations and vendors enjoyed connecting with others. • Vendors felt that the time of day and the date worked well, though one vendor commented that two other environmental events occurred in Washington County on the same weekend – Mahtomedi’s RITE of Spring and Valley EcoFair in Stillwater. • Some vendors felt that the event length was good while others thought it could be shortened and conclude at 12 PM since visitor traffic fell off in the last hour. There was a comment that the Clothing Swap could still go until 1 PM. One vendor suggested slightly different times for the two portions of the event. • Vendors appreciated that tables and chairs were provided. • Vendors felt that the event was well run, parking was easy, communication from the City was good, and there were lots of people on-hand to help direct for vendor setup. • Event staff and volunteers were friendly and helpful. • A vendor commented that there was a wide variety of attendees – folks that could use resources for keeping their bills down to people that had the latest in energy efficient home heating and cooling. • Vendors liked the venue and felt that there was plenty of space. They did not feel like they were too close to adjacent tables and didn’t need to compete to have conversations. The acoustics generally were good for a gym. • One vendor offered the suggestion of hosting the event in partnership with an adjacent community or two to achieve more visitor traffic. ## TO: Environmental Management Commission ## FROM: Hannah Dunn, Sr. Community Development Specialist DATE: May 18, 2026 ## SUBJ: Wetland and Water Resource Education Campaign The purpose of this memorandum is to continue the conversation regarding a potential wetland and water resource education campaign. ## BACKGROUND At the October 20, 2025 meeting, the Environmental Management Commission discussed Oakdale’s Adopt-A-Wetland program and the creation of educational resources on wetlands to share with residents, per Council direction from the August 12, 2025 workshop. From this discussion, the Environmental Management Commission decided they would like to pursue an education campaign that distills information and helps residents understand their responsibilities, how their actions impact water resources, and how to navigate stakeholders and the approval process for projects. There was also consensus around the possibility of creating an engagement template and piloting it with property owners near Tanners Lake, Armstrong Lake, and Mud Lake. Since this meeting, the EMC heard a guest presentation in November from staff at the Washington Conservation District and South Washington Watershed District about wetlands and ongoing projects in Oakdale. The education campaign has also been incorporated into the 2026 EMC Work Plan. At the May 18, 2026 meeting, the EMC will have an opportunity to continue the conversation regarding an education campaign and determine a general approach, next steps, and topics of focus. ## COMMISSION ACTION REQUESTED In order to move the education campaign forward, it is requested that the Environmental Management Commission discuss potential ideas for both the campaign and the final deliverable(s) (e.g., webpage, PDF, tabling materials). Commissioners are also encouraged to identify topics of interest they would be willing to research and compile information on for City staff to use in developing the campaign. Potential topics may include, but are not limited to, green infrastructure, rain gardens, wetland types, and local stakeholders. ## TO: Environmental Management Commission ## FROM: Hannah Dunn, Sr. Community Development Specialist DATE: May 18, 2026 ## SUBJ: 2026 EMC Editorial Calendar The 2026 Environmental Management Commission Editorial Calendar is designed to generate public outreach and communication about the Commission’s priorities related to solid waste, recycling, composting, air and water quality, and energy conservation. Topics of interest, dates of note, and relevant community resources may vary as the calendar is refined and updated; consequently, the EMC shall provide a recommendation to staff on the messages and resources of highest importance month to month. This memorandum seeks to open discussion on the topics and resources of focus in May, June, and July (Editorial Calendar attached). Environmental social media content published since the EMC’s March meeting packet includes: • March 27 – Washington County rain barrel sales. • April 3 – Clothing Swap donation period. • April 6 – Clothing Swap donation period details in the Monday Morning Minute. • April 7 – Eco Fair and Clothing Swap. • April 10 – Clothing Swap donation period. • April 13 – Clothing Swap donation period details in the Monday Morning Minute. • April 16 – Eco Fair and Clothing Swap. • April 20 – Eco Fair and Clothing Swap in the Monday Morning Minute. • April 21 – Eco Fair and Clothing Swap. • April 24 – Eco Fair and Clothing Swap. • April 25 – Eco Fair and Clothing Swap recap. ## Attachment ## 2026 EMC Editorial Calendar ## 2026 EMC Editorial Calendar ## January: Smart Salting and Grit Dates of Note Resources related to monthly topic ## Winter Salt Week – January 26 to 30, 2026 In January, communications content will focus on smart salting and grit. • MPCA smart salting resources ## • South Washington Watershed District grit information ## • Winter Salt Week resources ## February: Recycling and Reuse Dates of Note Resources related to monthly topic ## World Wetlands Day – February 2 ## National Battery Day – February 18 In February, communications content will focus on recycling and reuse. ## Resources: ## • Washington County Disposal Directory ## • Washington County Environmental Centers • “Be a Hero Battery” campaign • Recycling Exists campaign • BizRecycling ## • Food Scraps Pickup Program ## • Washington County Free Product Room ## March: Food Scraps Pickup Program Dates of Note Resources related to monthly topic ## N/A In March, communications content will focus on the Food Scraps Pickup Program (FSPP). ## Resources: ## • Food Scraps Pickup Program • Communications resources on FSPP’s website ## April: Eco Fair and Clothing Swap Dates of Note Resources related to monthly topic ## Earth Day – April 22 ## City of Oakdale Eco ## Fair and Clothing Swap – April 25 In April, communications content will focus on the Eco Fair and Clothing Swap, taking place on Saturday, April 25. ## Resources: • Communications materials (flyers, social media content) created by City staff and the Communications team ## May: Bicycling and Walking & Water Conservation Dates of Note Resources related to monthly topic ## Bike to Work Day – ## Friday, May 15 ## National Bike to ## Work Week – May 11-17 ## National Bike Month In May, communications content will focus on bicycling and walking as this theme aligns with dates relevant to this topic. ## Resources: ## • Oakdale Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan • Information about local trails, routes, projects, improvements ## • Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota o Bicycle safety o Events o Local bike clubs o Education Communications content will also focus on water conservation. It is a good time to remind residents about conserving water in the summer, the odd-even watering schedule, rain gardens, and available financial assistance. ## Resources: • Washington County rain barrel sales • Water quality improvement grants: ## o Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District ## Stewardship Grants ## o South Washington Watershed District Stewardship ## Grant ## o Valley Branch Watershed District Best Management ## Practices Grant Program ## o Washington Conservation District financial assistance ## • Blue Thumb o Rain gardens o Turf alternatives • WaterSense ## June: Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Dates of Note Resources related to monthly topic ## World Environment Day – June 5 In June, communications content will focus on renewable energy (e.g., solar, wind, etc.) and energy efficiency. This would be an opportune time to promote City-sponsored Home Energy Squad rebates. ## Resources: • Renewable energy programs through Xcel Energy o Windsource o Solar*Rewards (installed solar panels) o Solar*Rewards Community (community solar garden) • Home energy audit with Home Energy Squad • IRA rebates (solar, electric vehicles, energy efficiency) • Xcel Energy residential resources (including rebates and home services) • Citizens Utility Board (CUB) resources • Residential energy and weatherization assistance ## o Community Action Partnership of Ramsey & ## Washington Counties ## o Energy CENTS Coalition o CenterPoint Energy gas affordability program ## o Xcel Minnesota Energy Assistance Resources ## o Salvation Army HeatShare program • Commercial energy efficiency o Xcel Energy business resources o CenterPoint Energy efficiency programs and rebates o MN Chamber of Commerce energy efficiency ## o Clean Energy Project Builder • American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy financial incentives database ## • National Solar Tour ## July: Going Plastic-Free Dates of Note Resources related to monthly topic ## Plastic Bag Free Day – July 3 ## Plastic Free July In July, communications content will focus on going plastic-free. ## Resources: ## • Washington County Environmental Centers (Free Product ## Room) • Research the journey of plastic bags after they are dropped off for recycling ## August: Miscellaneous Dates of Note Resources related to monthly topic In August, communications content will focus on whatever is relevant to the month. For example, if the Twin Cities or State is experiencing severe drought, content can focus on water conservation tips. If content from the Recycling Education Committee’s communications calendar is timely, Oakdale communications will align and promote that messaging. ## September: Electric Vehicles and City-Wide Clean Up Event Dates of Note Resources related to monthly topic ## Zero Emissions Day – September 21 ## Car Free Day – September 22 ## National Drive ## Electric Month – Sep 11 – Oct 12 In September, communications content will focus on electric vehicles and the City-Wide Clean Up Event. Resources for electric vehicles: • IRA rebates for EVs ## • Drive Electric Minnesota • Shift2Electric ## • EVs with Xcel Energy ## • MN State EV Dashboard 2026 City-Wide ## Clean Up Event – September 19 ## October: Energy Efficiency Dates of Note Resources related to monthly topic ## National LED Light Day – October 7 ## National Solar Tour – October 2-4 ## Energy Awareness ## Month ## National ## Weatherization Day – October 30 In October, communications content will focus on energy efficiency. While energy efficiency is being promoted in June, October is Energy Awareness Month. This would be an opportune time to promote City-sponsored Home Energy Squad rebates if money is still left. ## Resources: • Renewable energy programs through Xcel Energy o Windsource o Solar*Rewards (installed solar panels) o Solar*Rewards Community (community solar garden) • Home energy audit with Home Energy Squad • IRA rebates (solar, electric vehicles, energy efficiency) • Xcel Energy residential resources (including rebates and home services) • Citizens Utility Board (CUB) resources • Residential energy and weatherization assistance ## o Community Action Partnership of Ramsey & ## Washington Counties ## o Energy CENTS Coalition o CenterPoint Energy gas affordability program ## o Xcel Minnesota Energy Assistance Resources ## o Salvation Army HeatShare program ## o MN Commerce Department Energy Assistance ## Program • Commercial energy efficiency o Xcel Energy business resources o CenterPoint Energy efficiency programs and rebates o MN Chamber of Commerce energy efficiency ## o Clean Energy Project Builder • American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy financial incentives database ## • National Solar Tour ## November: Recycling and Reuse Dates of Note Resources related to monthly topic ## America Recycles Day – November 15 In November, communications content will focus on recycling and reuse. Typically, the City partners with the County to offer pumpkin recycling at the beginning of November. This month might also be a good opportunity to do another promotional push for the Food Scraps Pickup Program. ## Resources: ## • Washington County Disposal Directory ## • Washington County Environmental Centers • “Be a Hero Battery” campaign • Recycling Exists campaign • BizRecycling ## • Food Scraps Pickup Program ## • Washington County Free Product Room ## December: Low-Waste Holidays Dates of Note Resources related to monthly topic ## National Christmas ## Lights Day – December 1 In December, communications content will focus on low-waste holidays. ## Resources: • Christmas lights – energy efficiency and recycling o Recycle old light strands at the Environmental ## Centers • Tree recycling at Public Works ## • Food Scraps Pickup Program ## World Pollution ## Prevention Day – December 2 ## Ongoing Content Throughout Year ## • Food Scraps Pickup Program ## • City-sponsored Home Energy Squad rebates • General sustainability