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HomeMy WebLinkAbout[06] Comprehensive Plan • • CM'[3F KT.JOSEPH Planning Agenda A enda Item 6 MEETING DATE: August 13,2018 AGENDA ITEM: 2018 Comprehensive Plan SUBMITTED BY: Community Development STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Adopt 2018 Comprehensive Plan PREVIOUS PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: A public hearing was held on the Draft 2018 Comprehensive Pan on June 11, 2018 by the Planning Commission. The Planning Commission tabled the draft plan and directed staff and the consultant to address the public input that was received during the public hearing. BACKGROUND INFORMATION: The City has been working with consultant Antonio Rosell with Community Design Group(CDG)to complete the 2018 Comprehensive Plan. The Comprehensive Plan plans twenty years into the future but generally is updated every 10 years due to changes in demographics, land use pressure,relevance and the need to examine the community's vision for the future.This plan will serve as a framework for the future of St.Joseph and provides guidance in the day- to-day decision making of the city. The 2018 update began in February of 2017 with the formation of an advisory committee with members from the City Council,EDA,Planning Commission,College of St. Benedict, St. Benedict Monastery, St.Joseph Township, CentraCare,and St.Joseph Chamber of Commerce. The plan update incorporates previous studies and planning work,is based on smart growth principles,and on public input received. Public input was obtained through the advisory committee,an open house,workshop, interviews,pop up events(bringing it to the people),and an online survey. Public outreach included the city website,project website,advisory committee, city boards, St.Joseph Chamber of Commerce,Kennedy Community School, CSB/SJU bulletin, faith based outreach, St.Joseph Newsleader, and City Newsletter. Additionally,the draft 2018 Comprehensive Plan was made available for public comment from May 11, 2018 to June 12,2018. In response to the input received on the draft plan,the plan has been updated as follows: • Revised Community Profile section(community history,housing, income, education)as suggested. • Noted the presence of Clemens Library under Community Facilities and Utilities as suggested. • Changed the priority of exploring the extension of St.Cloud Metro Bus service to high as suggested. • Added section 3.9 Community Engagement,Participation and Communication to address comments made on community outreach and communication. ATTACHMENTS: Request for Planning Commission Action Draft 2018 Comprehensive Plan REQUESTED PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: Motion to recommend Adoption of the City of St.Joseph 2018 Comprehensive Plan by the City Council. - _ Aw-, .tea,. e - .• �. ,.,e {-:_.� �t T The City of St. Joseph Comprehensive Plan A Vision to the Future August 7, 2018 a people -centered, a sse4•based approach to urban pi--Z. policy and design CITY OF ST. JOSEPH ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Thank you to the residents, businesses, community organizations and institutions, and elected officials who participated in the creation of this plan. PLANNING COMMISSIONS Troy Goracke, Council Voting Liaison Gina Dullinger, Chair Chad Hausmann, Vice Chair CITY BOARDS & COMMISSIONS Economic Development Authority (EDA) CITY STAFF Therese Haffner, Community Development Director MAYOR / CITY COUNCIL Mayor Rick Shultz Bob Loso Matt Killam Steve Olson Matt Johnson Daryl Schaefer Park Board Judy Weyrens, City Administrator Terry Thene, Public Works Director Troy Goracke Dale Wick COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS Jodi Gertken, CentraCare Jerome Salzer, St. Joseph Township Larry Hosch, Economic Development Authority Chad Hausmann, Planning Commission Dale Wick, City Council S. Margaret Wurm, St. Benedict Monastery CONSULTANT Community Design Group 212 3rd Avenue North, Suite 515 Minneapolis, MN 55401 612-354-2901 www.c-d-g.org Jon McGee, College of St. Benedict/St. John's University Bob Ringstrom, St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce Randy Sabart, City Engineer, SEH TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION 1. INTRODUCTION......................................................................5 1.1. Purpose.............................................................................................6 1.2. What is a Comprehensive Plan?.....................................................7 1.3. Prior Planning Work...............................................................................8 1.4. Organization of the Plan...................................................................9 1.5. Community Profile................................................................................11 SECTION 2. ASSETS, VISION AND VALUES......................................23 2.1. Community Participation in the Planning Process ............................24 2.2. Community Assets................................................................................26 2.3. Vision and Values.........................................................................._27 SECTION 3. PLAN ELEMENTS, GOALS AND STRATEGIES .......... 33 3.1. Framework for Recommendations................................................34 3.2. Land Use........................................................................................38 3.3. Housing..................................................................................................53 3.4. Mobility and Transportation...............................................................58 3.5. Economic Development................................................................64 3.6. Community Facilities and Utilities..................................................74 3.7. Parks and Recreation............................................................................82 3.8. Sustainability and Resiliency...............................................................86 3.9. Community Engagement, Participation and Communication ........ 96 3.10. Implementation Tasks and Timeline...........................................100 SECTION 4. APPENDIX.....................................................................115 4.A. Existing Conditions Report...........................................................A-1 16 4.13. Public Engagement Report........................................................... B-156 This document, developed by the St. Joseph community, is a tool to guide the efforts of St. Joseph citizens, elected officials and staff as they work together in UeveicPiriy Brie k,.iLy 5 iuLure., 2 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN r r L 1 yTHE- ,TY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREH`�'WIVE PLAN 13 _._ f - •taRf - *� - 9 )F AJOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN -eM6- - &._ -L Jr 96 )F AJOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN -eM6- - &._ -L SECTION 1 Introduction This section explains the purpose of the Comprehensive Plan, and provides a summary of St. Joseph's history, current condition and demographics. 1.1 Purpose 1.2 What is a Comprehensive Plan? 1.3 Prior Planning Work 1.4 Organization of the Plan 1.5 Community Profile Purpose The St. Joseph Comprehensive Plan offers a vision and road map for the future of the city, and serves as a tool to guide the efforts of St. Joseph citizens, elected and appointed officials and staff as they work together in developing the City's future. This plan replaces the City of St. Joseph's 2008 Comprehensive Plan. The process to develop this comprehensive plan began in early 2017 with the creation of an Advisory Committee made up of individuals from community organizations, appointed and elected officials, and city staff. The Advisory Committee held a kickoff meeting in mid-February and a public open house and workshop was held in March. The planning process included extensive research and analysis, public outreach, and intensive work with project team members to finalize the plan. This plan recognizes and builds upon past and existing planning work and is based on comments, ideas and guidance from the St. Joseph community. Community engagement played a major role throughout the process to ensure that the recommendations in the plan align with the goals and vision of St. Joseph residents, employers and visitors. Public comments and guidance were integrated with demographic trends and data, existing plans and documents, and anticipated future opportunities and trends. The Plan represents the outcome of this process. 6 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN What is a Comprehensive Plan? AComprehensive Plan is a community's "blueprint" for its future. It serves as a policy document that a community can use to guide action on its growth and development, including guiding investment and allocation of services. Cities have the authority to adopt such a Plan according to Minnesota State Statute 462.353, Subd. I to promote the public health, safety and general welfare of the community. This Comprehensive Plan represents St. Joseph's goals for its future growth and development. The Comprehensive Plan is useful in the following ways: The Comprehensive Plan: 1. Records the future as desired by participating community residents, businesses, organizations and other partners; 2. Highlights priorities as backed by local agreement; 3. Serves as a guide for city elected and appointed officials in development and infrastructure decisions and budgeting capital improvements; 4. Serves as a guide for residents, businesses and property owners in determining potential use of property and establishing reasonable land use expectations; 5. Serves as a guide for developers in property acquisitions while directing their development plans with city goals, regulations and infrastructure plans. PROCESS 1:ENGAGEMENT Gather ideas from stakeholders to develop vision 2: VISION Envision and innovate ways to improve the City. 3:GOALS Incorporate visions into goals for the future 4: STRATEGIES Develop strategies to implement goals THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 7 Prior Planning Work The 2018 Comprehensive Plan responds to and integrates all of the previous planning work in the city and its surrounding area under its guiding vision, as it builds upon prior plans, including the 2008 Comprehensive Plan. The work and recommendations of each of the following plans are incorporated into this plan: • 2008 St. Joseph Comprehensive Plan • St. Joseph Downtown Revitalization Plan (2006) • St. Joseph Downtown Revitalization Design Standards (2007) • St. Joseph Transportation Plan • St. Joseph Park and Trail System Plan • East-West Corridor Study • North Corridor and CSAH 2 Realignment Study • St. Joseph's Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (ongoing) Wellhead Management Plan `'�---------�-- "^----.gment Plan )work Plan (2010) / 1-94 & CR 2 Master Plan 8 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Organization of the Plan The St. Joseph Comprehensive Plan is organized into sections described as follows: Section I: Introduction Describes the plan's purpose and definition, and provides background information about the St. Joseph community, prior planning work, vision and values and outlines the methods used to engage the public. Section 2: Assets, Vision and Values Summarizes the community engagement process as well as the community vision and values. Section 3: Plan Elements, Goals, and Strategies • Land Use: Identifies current land use patterns, establishes planning districts, a set of land use categories, and a future land use plan and lists a set of specific goals, and strategies. • Housing: Provides an analysis of city demographics affecting housing needs, evaluates existing housing conditions, reviews land use options for growth, and establishes goals and strategies to strengthen existing conditions and plan for future residential development. • Mobility and Transportation: Evaluates current and future transportation needs based on current demand, future trends, and community goals. • Economic Development: Provides an overview of economic trends, summarizes existing development projects, and provides an assessment of commercial and industrial development and establish goals for the future. • Parks and Recreation: Summarizes community goals for expanding St. Joseph parks, open space, and trail systems. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 9 • Community Facilities: Reviews the location and capacity of governmentfacilities, publicsafetylocations, schools, health care, and other public facilities for upgrade or replacement. This section also establishes policies and guidelines for fiscally responsible, timely, and environmentally conscious management of the City's resources. • Sustainability and Resilience: Identifies the community's unique environmental resources including bedrock, soils, groundwater, and watersheds, and describes current protection efforts. This section also creates goals and strategies for the preservation of the natural environment for the future. • Implementation: Provides guidance for maintaining accountability, monitoring activities, developing procedures and regulations and community involvement in implementation of the Comprehensive Plan. Section 4: Appendix • Existing Conditions Report • Public Engagement Report IlM 10 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Community Profile Community History The first settlers arrived in the St. Joseph area in 1854; St. Joseph Township was organized in 1858. Prominent settlers included the families of Peter Loso, John Linnemann, and Peter Kraemer. The Benedictine Sisters arrived in 1863 and founded Saint Bened ict's Monastery. Shortly after they opened Saint Bened ict's Academy for young women. In 1913 the academy became the College of Saint Benedict, a liberal arts college for women (recognized in 2018 as the 8th best Catholic college in the nation). The college's Benedicta Arts Center provides excellent Fine Arts programming for area residents, while the college's Clemens Library provides free library services to St. Joseph residents as well. Originally, called Clinton, St. Joseph acquired its current name in 1870. Many settlers moved to the area because of the fertile soils for farming (though there were multiple years of severe winters and a grasshopper plague in 1856). As Minnesota moved toward statehood, St. Joseph continued its development with many homes, businesses and notable structures. Completed in 1871, the Church of Saint Joseph is the first and oldest consecrated church in Minnesota. By 1890, the Village of St. Joseph was incorporated. Progress included installation of a public well, construction of a jail, and installation and repair of wooden sidewalks. By 1930, the city had grown to over 1,000 inhabitants and was developing into an educational center for Minnesota. Today, the College of St. Benedict and nearby St. John's University in Collegeville bring a large number of daily visitors into the city. Increase in college enrollments played a major role in St. Joseph's growth from 1960-1980. In the 1970s, the College of St. Benedict tripled its enrollment and increased its staff and faculty. As St. Joseph continued to grow, in 1997 the City of St. Joseph and St. Joseph Township entered into an orderly annexation agreement and by 2000 the city's total land area had increased to 1.86 square miles. What we heard "1 love the history of our community" THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 11 St. Joseph Today St. Joseph is located in Stearns County, in Central Minnesota, about 70 miles northwest of Minneapolis and eight miles west of St. Cloud in the St. Cloud Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). The Watab and Sauk rivers, both tributaries to the Mississippi, flow through St. Joseph. St. Cloud MSAcities enjoyan arrayof medical, educational, r natural, and recreational amenities making the area ° attractive for continued growth. Nearby communities include Waite Park, Sartell, and Sauk Rapids. Today, St. Joseph covers approximately 4 square miles (2,620 acres) and has a population of 6,772 people. Students from the College of St. Benedict and St. John's University make up an estimated 30% of the city's population (with another 10% made up of faculty, staff, and monastery members). The student community has a large effect on St. Joseph's housing, transportation, and retail environments - especially since the presence of students varies throughout the year. Currently, neither the College of St. Benedict nor St. John's University are forecasting significant enrollment growth in the future. About 35% of the property in St. Joseph is tax exempt. 12 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Population The city experienced significant population growth between 1970 and 1980 (68% increase). In 1980, growth in St. Joseph paralleled that of Stearns County, first slowing and then again increasing in 1990. The habits of young professionals and families may have positive implications for St. Joseph. People in the age range of 20-24 years old (St. Joseph's largest age group) are more likely to move to cities than any other age group, and once there, are likely to stay. By their mid-20s, most Minnesotans establish their own households and start families, and by age 50 no longer have children living at home. Minnesota residents can usually retire at the age of 66 with full social security benefits. With a large population of young adults and seniors, St. Joseph could see housing demand rise in the coming years. Future population Population projections help to anticipate and plan for future infrastructure needs and community investment opportunities. Minnesota State Demographic Center projections for Stearns County indicate that by 2040 its population will increase by 4% to an estimated 160,131 residents. St. Joseph's projected 2040 population is 9,449 persons. Year St. Joseph Stearns County St. Joseph as % of County Population 1980 2,994 108,161 2.8% Source: US Census Bureau, NIN State Demographic Center. Why look at population? A population profile - including collecting and analyzing historical, current and future demographics - is essential in a Comprehensive Plan. This information is key in planning forthe future of St. Joseph, including land use, housing and public facilities. Population Growth in St. Joseph • i i ! • 4 • i i 1970 2000 1,786 peope 4,6.;1 ; _; 2016 0,864 people Figure I. I. Population growth from 1970 to 2016. Data: U.S. Census. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 13 Age distribution The median age in St. Joseph is 21.7, compared to 34 in Stearns County which can be attributed to the presence of college students. Figure 1.2.Age distribution comparing Stjoseph and Stearns County in 2015. Source: US Census Bureau, NIN State Demographic Center The age group 20-24 years old (St. Joseph's largest age group) is generally a city's most mobile age group (more likely to move to other cities in search of housing or career opportunities). St. Joseph's second-largest age group (25-29 year-olds) is also highly mobile. Many of these young adults are college students enrolled in and residing at the College of St. Benedict, and would need housing and career options to stay in St. Joseph after graduation. About 33% of St. Joseph residents are in "prime working years" of ages 25-65 (significantly less than Stearns County, with about 50% in that same age group). 14 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2015 Papulation 0.4 0.35 0.3 0.25 0.2 0.15 0.1 0.o-00 ., 1 unde,5 5 t 19 20 to 34 35 to 64 65• ■ St. Joseph ■ Stearns County Figure 1.2.Age distribution comparing Stjoseph and Stearns County in 2015. Source: US Census Bureau, NIN State Demographic Center The age group 20-24 years old (St. Joseph's largest age group) is generally a city's most mobile age group (more likely to move to other cities in search of housing or career opportunities). St. Joseph's second-largest age group (25-29 year-olds) is also highly mobile. Many of these young adults are college students enrolled in and residing at the College of St. Benedict, and would need housing and career options to stay in St. Joseph after graduation. About 33% of St. Joseph residents are in "prime working years" of ages 25-65 (significantly less than Stearns County, with about 50% in that same age group). 14 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Race and Ethnicity St. Joseph has experienced an influx of immigrants in recent decades, changing the racial and ethnic makeup of the city. Although the population of foreign -born individuals is a relatively small percentage of the population of St. Joseph (5.9%), the city has a slightly higher percentage than Stearns County (5.3%) while still being a couple percentage points belowMinnesota(7.7%).Somepotential implications for the city's future include planning for the need for programming and jobs for non-native English speakers as well as housing that supports multi -generational families. Ethnicity White Jos-jph Population 6,340 St. JosephStearns Percent 93.29% County Percent 89.42% Percent 81.70% Black or African American 90 1.32% 3.73% 5.40% American Indian 23 0.34% 0.30% 1.00% Asian 122 1.80% 1.89% 4.40% Hawaiian / Pacific Islander 0 0.00% 0.01% 0.00% Hispanic or Latino 75 1.10% 3.04% 5.00% Other 42 0.62% 0.05% 0.10% Multi -racial 104 1.53% 1.56% 2.30% Source: US Census Bureau, NIN State Demographic Center Income The high proportion of students in the city's population (about one third of all residents) tends to skew income and poverty statistics. Nevertheless, year-to-year comparisons are useful for understanding local trends. According to Census estimates, median household income in 2015 was $51,265, which was lowerthan Stearns County($56,336) and Minnesota overall ($61,492). The city's median household income decreased from 2010, when it was $57,548 - this could be attributed to a change in college student population or annexation. The city's computed poverty rate is higher than surrounding areas; this may be due to the presence of over 2,000 college students who typically report little or no income, or to increasing immigrant or low income populations. Did you know? In 2017, more than 20% of the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University student population are US students of color or international students. City Poverty Rate Sartell 3.7% Waite Park 20.9% Sauk Rapids 21.5% St. Cloud 23.0% St. Joseph 29.8% Source: US Census Bureau, NIN State Demographic Center THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 15 Source: US Census Bureau, MIN State Demographic Center. 1w Income 2000- 2015 2010- 2010 2010 2015 % Change Estimates % Change 7 2000 St. Joseph $38,939 $57,548 48% $51,265 -11% St. Joseph Township $45,396 $46,111 2% $66,250 44% Waite Park $33,803 $39,489 17% $39,695 0.50% Sartell $52,531 $66,473 27% $73,872 11% Sauk Rapids $45,857 $53,972 18% $48,410 -10% St. Cloud $37,346 $41,536 11% $45,437 9% Stearns County 1 $42,426 1$53,889 1 27% 1 $56,336 1 5% Source: US Census Bureau, MIN State Demographic Center. 1w Income St. Joseph Stearns County Less than $10,000 6.90% 6.20% $10,000 to $14,999 4.30% 4.30% $15,000 to $24,999 11.10% 9.90% $25,000 to $34,999 11.70% 9.50% $35,000 to $49,999 13.60% 14.10% $50,000 to $74,999 15.80% 20.80% $75,000 to $99,999 18.90% 14.90% $100,000 to $149,999 12.10% 13.50% $150,000 to $199,999 4.90% 3.70% $200,000 or more 0.60% 3.10% Source: US Census Bureau, MIN State Demographic Center 16 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Education Educational attainment is a useful measure of a city's economic development potential, as the percentage of residents with a bachelor's degree or higher can indicate opportunities for certain businesses to develop. St. Joseph's population has a high level of educational attainment in comparison to Stearns County, with 35% of the city's 25 and older population age holding a bachelor's degree or higher, vs. 26% for the county overall. In 2018, the College of Saint Benedict, a liberal arts college for women located in St. Joseph, was named the 8th best Catholic college in the nation bythe USAToday College Partner Network. St.Joseph is partof School District 742, which also includes Waite Park, St. Cloud, and surrounding areas. Educational facilities within the school district include eight elementary schools, three middle schools, two high schools, and two alternative schools. Of those schools, one public elementary school and one private elementary school are located in St. Joseph. Households A household refers to a person or a group of people who occupy a housing unit. The number of households in St. Joseph grew 48% in the period from 1990 to 2000, 65% from 2000 to 2010, and an estimated 2% from 2010 to 2015 (with the earlier dramatic growth reflecting significant increases in enrollment at the colleges). St. Joseph has a larger percentage of households with children than Stearns County, St. Joseph Township and the surrounding cities of Waite Park and St. Cloud. In terms of absolute numbers, however, there are more households with children in Sartell and Sauk Rapids than in St. Joseph. Residents of St. Joseph reside in either households or group quarters. Group quarters include both institutional and non - institutional living quarters like nursing homes, dormitories, or group homes. Since St. Joseph has a large college population, this percentage is high. In 2015, 1,891 persons (27.5% of the population) lived in group quarters. Of the 1,845 households in St. Joseph, the 2010 US Census indicates that 64.2% are family households and 35.8% non - family households. In 2010, the average number of persons per household in St. Joseph was larger than both Stearns County and Minnesota overall. Source: US Census Bureau, NIN State Demographic Center Source: US Census Bureau, NIN State Demographic Center. Source: US Census Bureau, MIN State Demographic Center THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 17 Employment Employment is closely related to population growth for most communities. Jobs that are located within a community or at a reasonable driving distance are important contributors to its growth in population and economic activity. The US Census Bureau provides data on employment in St. Joseph. According to the 2015 American Community Survey (ACS), nearly half (44.7%) of all St. Joseph employees work in education, health or social services, with retail trade a distant second at 9.9% of all jobs, and manufacturing third at 9.3%. In Minnesota overall, about one quarter of workers were employed in education, health or social services and 11.3% in retail trade. The College of St. Benedict, the city's leading employer, does not anticipate any significant enrollment growth and for that reason does not expect any growth in employment. Any rapid job growth in the communitywould most likely be a result of growth in other employment sectors or more residents commuting to work in St. Joseph from St. Cloud or the Twin Cities Metro Area. CompanyNumber of Employees for Selected St. Joseph Employers - .. jMrEmployeeA College of St. Benedict / St. John's University Private College 780 Coborns Supermarket 125 ISD 742, Kennedy Community School Elementary and Secondary School 100 Central Minnesota Credit Union Credit Union 63 McDonald's Fast Food Restaurant 54 Scherer Trucking Truck Transportation 39 Borgert Products Concrete Paver Manufacturer 35 City of St. Joseph Government Service 35 Precise Plumbing and Heating Contractor 28 Sentry Bank Financial Institution 28 CentraCare Clinic Medical 20 Fabral Steel Roofing and Siding Management 20 Source: City of Stjoseph 18 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Unemployment Although the US Bureau of Labor Statistics does not keep unemployment data specifically for the St. Joseph, the most recent 2015 ACS data from the US Census Bureau shows the city's unemployment rate to be 3%. The unemployment rate in Stearns County fluctuates seasonally, and it can be expected that St. Joseph's rate follows a similar pattern: Unemployment Rate in Stearns County from 2012-2016. Source: US Census Bureau, MIN State Demographic Center THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 19 7 s rAa 4 c a E a a CL E3 m c 2 1 '10,�h °'tOw'h "LOy�i 'L�tih 'YO,�S •Yq.�h 'LOti�o 'LO'�o 'YQ1� `lO,��a qac acr al �o�� he4� �4a qac a4r �aA ,\A w Source: US Census Bureau, MIN State Demographic Center THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 19 Commuting Recent data shows that approximately 90% of working St. Joseph residents are employed outside the city with about 37% commuting to St. Cloud. As shown below, 2,552 residents commute outside of the cityforwork, 233 live and work in St. Joseph, and 1,905 nonresidents commute into St. Joseph to work. For residents, approximately 60% travel less than 10 miles to work while nearly 13% travel over 50 miles to work. Sixty-nine percent of nonresidents commuting into St. Joseph for work travel less than 10 miles with about 18% traveling over 50 miles. Residencelace of Count Share Place of - Employment S St. Cloud Count 1,305 Sha 4 37.2% St. Joseph 233 8.4% Waite Park 210 7.5% Sartell 128 4.6% Sauk Rapids 72 2.6% Minneapolis 56 2.0% Cold Spring 53 1.9% Avon 33 1.2% Albany 30 1.1% St. Augusta 30 1.1% All Other Locations 905 32.5% Distance Traveled Count Share Fewer than 10 miles 1,287 60.2% 10 to 24 miles 388 18.1% 25 to 50 miles 188 8.8% Greater than 50 miles 275 12.9% Residencelace of Count Share St. Cloud 443 20.7% St. Joseph 233 10.9% Sartell 131 6.1% Sauk Rapids 82 3.8% Waite Park 65 3.0% Avon 35 1.6% Rockville 35 1.6% Cold Spring 33 1.5% St. Augusta 27 1.3% Albany 24 1.1% All Other Locations 1,030 48.2% Distance Traveled Count Share Fewer than 10 miles 1,913 68.7% 10 to 24 miles 212 7.6% 25 to 50 miles 161 5.8% Greater than 50 miles 499 17.9% Work Destination: Where workers are employed who live in Stjoseph Home Destination: Where workers live who are employed in St. Joseph Source: US Census Bureau Longitudinal Employer -Household Dynamics (LEHD) 20 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1.905 - Employed in Selection Area, Live Outside 2,552 - Live in Selection Area, Employed OutSide 233 - Employed and Live in Selection Area Source: US Census Bureau Longitudinal Employer - Household Dynamics (LEHD) THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 21 rn,Al P-. f-_ Ago SECTION 2 Assets, Vision and Valulf, This section sum marizesthe methods used to engage St. Joseph residents, provides a brief description of the community's assets, and describes the process used to develop the plan's vision and values. 2.1 Community Participation in the Planning Process 2.2 Community Assets 2.3 Vision and Values Did you know? One of the most consistent goals received from residents regarding the future of St. Joseph was to maintain the city's "small-town" atmosphere. February 2017 Kickoff Community Participation in the Planning Process Development of the Comprehensive Plan included extensive participation and engagement with St. Joseph residents, businesses and community organizations. Numerous in-person and online activities sought and received ideas from the city's population. Overall, approximately 700 people interacted with the process to develop this plan - including about 300 people who participated at in-person activities and meetings, aswell as about 300 people who participated through the plan's online survey and about 500 visitors who downloaded information about the plan. Results from public engagement were integrated with the results from the project team's research and analysis to identify community values, relevant trends and issues, and develop goals and strategies. A Project Advisory Committee made up of residents and businesses met several times through the plan's development and helped bring additional perspectives into the plan's development. The project's website (www.EnvisionStJoseph.com) was used to communicate project details, engagement opportunities, and updates to the public. Residents and businesses were made Summer 2017 Fall 2017- Winter 2018 Gathering and Listening Finalize Plan Spring 2017 Summer 2017 Existing Conditions Drafting Research Final Document 24 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN aware of the plan development process and project website through various means including links from the city's website, mention in the city's newsletter, direct email, Newsleader newspaper, WJON radio, CSB/SJU website, Kennedy Community School, and church bulletins. Engagement Activities In-person events and an online survey were the tools used to engage the public about the city's current challenges, assets, and potential investments and improvements. All of the comments the City received were compiled and summarized, and were incorporated into the Comprehensive Plan document. A list of comments received can be found in Appendix C. Open House An Open House and Workshop was held on March 8, 2017 at the St. Joseph Government Center with approximately 40 people attending to share what they love about St. Joseph, what they wish could be improved, and where the city could invest or improve in the future. The public's comments were reviewed by the Advisory Committee and Planning Commission and incorporated into this Comprehensive Plan document. Pop -Ups Pop -Up events brought the project's engagement activities to places where people were already meeting, and brought participation from people who might not normally attend open houses. The project team engaged about 300 people at five Pop -Up events: • College of St. Benedict (about 150 students) • Joint Planning Board Meeting (about 10 participants) • 2017 Community Showcase (about 100 participants) • St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce (about 10 participants) • St. Joseph Farmer's Market (about 20 participants) Online Community Survey A community survey was developed to gather citizens' and businesses' current impressions and ideas for St. Joseph, and to learn their priorities for improvement. Question topics included housing, transportation, economic factors, and recreation. The survey was live for nearly three months from March through the end of May 2017. About 300 responses were received, which were collected, analyzed and incorporated into the plan's recommendations. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 25 Co m m u n ity Assets What Residents Value About St. Joseph Maintaining the city's identity even as it grows is an important goal for residents, businesses and leaders. Residents value numerous qualities about their city, and want to preserve these assets, using the plan as a tool to protect them, grow them, and leverage them for the benefit of the city's future. A Brief Listing of Community Assets The Downtown Core St. Joseph's built environment includes rich historic elements in the downtown and college campus. Awalkable, distinctive core with well-preserved buildings adds to the city's character. VibrantArts Community The arts and culture are valued in the city. Numerous venues host different forms of art: dance, music, theatre and others. Festivals and events create an enjoyable and stimulating environmentfor residents and visitors. Welcoming Public Spaces St. Joseph's public spaces, including sidewalks, trails, parks, festivals and community buildings are open and welcoming. The historic downtown is an attractive place to be, with pedestrian - friendly amenities including mixed-use buildings, sidewalks, benches, wayfinding signage, art stores, restaurants, coffee shops, and landscaping. Education and Knowledge St. Joseph's educational institutions are well -loved and recognized - from the College of St. Benedict to successful local elementary schools like Kennedy Community School, All Saints Academy and Lillian Leonard Primary. St. Joseph residents and leaders appreciate and support their school system as it provides great facilities and a quality education. The college campus enhances the local school system and enriches community life. The College of St. Benedict's beautiful buildings and cultural events are open to the community and its students, faculty, and staff contribute to the community's vitality and wellbeing. 26 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Vision and Values Based on public input received, a vision statement and set of six core values were developed by the Planning Commission and Advisory Committee. The vision statement is aspirational and encompasses what the St. Joseph Community desires to be in the future. The core values are the guiding principles that define the priorities of St. Joseph and supports the vision. Vision Statement St. Joseph is a flourishing city where all residents have access to a wide variety of housing options and employment opportunities, and where they can enjoy walkable neighborhoods, a vibrant downtown full of cultural and entertainment activities, and numerous recreational spaces and natural areas. T T n 111111111111r� THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 27 What we heard Community Values - Guiding Principles Engagement activities yielded a rich variety of information regarding resident ideas and preferences for the future of the St. Joseph. The guiding principles summarize resident guidance obtained through the plan's extensive engagement activities and include the following six core values: Vibrant A diverse community that values a mix of employment, industry and retail infrastructure to foster social and economic vitality. Lively An active and attractive community that is welcoming, healthy and safe. Diversified A well-connected community that includes a variety of businesses, land uses and activities, and welcomes people of all ages, income levels, and ethnicities. Welcoming An inviting community that embraces and enhances its historic "small town feel." Proactive A resourceful community that anticipates the needs of its residents, employees and visitors and responds in a productive and responsible way. Sustainable 28 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ient community that builds on its existing ;ets. What the Values Mean Vibrant St. Joseph residents recognize the importance of small businesses in the life of their city and value a strong sense of community. The city will maintain its 'small town" character by encouraging small business development and by supporting development patterns that promote walkability and a mix of uses. The city will build on existing connections between the college, monastery and other cultural institutions to create new jobs and revenue for the community. Lively Health and wellness of the St. Joseph community is a key consideration as the city makes decisions and plans investments. The City will continue to enhance its physical and social environments while expanding community resources to support active and healthy lifestyles. A healthy, safe, and sustainable community offers streets that allow pedestrians, bicycle riders and motorists to interact safely with each other; provides sidewalks, trails, and bike lanes for active transportation; and builds infrastructure systems for maintaining and increasing access to clean water and energy. Diversified St. Joseph is located just outside of the St. Cloud metropolitan area and within convenient distance to Minneapolis/St. Paul; its location offers connections to employment and residential centers, while defining itself as a destination for visitors. The City's range of housing and employment options make it a desirable community for individuals and families of all ages, ethnic backgrounds, income levels, and neighborhood preferences. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 29 ALft-Ji iM111111111l Welcoming The St. Joseph community prides itself on its friendly and welcoming environment. Residents, committees, organizations, and business owners work to maintain and enhance the City's sense of character, promoting community development and events, supporting local festivals, and inviting tourism. As the population of St. Joseph grows, community involvement and collaboration remains a priority. Proactive St. Joseph values community and engagement in community life. Residents are involved in local civic organizations and committees. Residents and City Staff help recognize and support areas of opportunity in the community. Residents contribute to the city's success by supporting local businesses, improving the beauty of their neighborhood and caring for themselves and those around them. Sustainable Located along the Sauk River and Watab River, St. Joseph offers many opportunities to experience the outdoors and enjoy the city's cultural history. St. Joseph preserves and expands these assets, dedicating appropriate resources to the ongoing upkeep and maintenance of its natural and cultural resources. 3o I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 131 ti 6 i•9 AW i- 9�� yyyy �•" Am p - OMPREHENSIVE PLAN' z - SECTION 3 Plan Elements, Goals and Strategies 3.1 Framework for Recommendations 3.2 Land Use 3.3 Housing 3.4 Mobility and Transportation 3.5 Economic Development 3.6 Community Facilities and Utilities 3.7 Parks and Recreation 3.8 Sustainability and Resiliency 3.9 Implementation What do a plan's Goals and Strategies mean? Goals are the short and long term aims that a Comprehensive Plan sets out for a city to achieve. Each goal is a broad statement that encompasses a desired outcome in general terms. Strategies are the projects, programs, or policies that are needed to achieve each goal. Each goal in this plan includes a list of potential strategies that should be considered in working to achieve each goal. The purpose for each goal and strategy? To help achieve the vision and dreams of the St. Joseph community. What we heard Framework for Recommendations A Comprehensive Plan establishes a community's goals and presents a roadmap for achieving them. To capitalize on that community's existing assets, mobilize its residents, and meet those goals, the recommendations made in a Comprehensive Plan must: • Recognize that even within that single community there will be different conditions, contexts and opportunities for specific locations within it, • Leverage that community's existing assets as part of the plan's foundation for future success, • Listen to, consider and respond to that community's residents' and leaders'visions and aspirations for the future, and • Move toward implementation in sustainable, incremental ways that offer stable improvement and a toehold for next steps. This chapter of the St. Joseph Comprehensive Plan presents a brief framework for understanding the plan's policy recommendations and the foundations for success that are already existing in the city. Thinking about context St. Joseph is a small town community located in scenic Central Minnesota, rich with amenities and history. It is home to the College and Monastery of St. Benedict, to a historic and thriving downtown, and a variety of small and large -locally owned businesses. The city is also the trailhead of the 62 -mile Lake Wobegon Trail. It has a high-quality public school system and a history of active public involvement. It is important, when thinking about the city and making recommendations for its future, to recognize that it includes differentzones or districts within it, and that each of these zones or districts offer different contexts for recommendations and may require different approaches for achieving overall success. 34 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN The St. Joseph transect A transect is a tool for thinking about the different planning - related contexts that exist in a community, by looking at it from its outer edges to its densest core: Usually, in most cities large or small, each of the transect zones presents a similar intensity of land use - which is visible as buildings of mostly similar forms and compatible function. Because their settings and contexts are different, and the activities and roles that each zone plays in the overall function and experience of the city is different, a recommendation that may be helpful and appropriate in the downtown core may not be as helpful in suburban residential areas of the same city - and the inverse is true as well: a recommendation that may be helpful when thinking about new residential development in the city's suburban zone may not lead to outcomes that are consistent with overall plan goals if applied in the downtown. Even resident preferences, received in conversations related to St. Joseph's future growth and development are closely tied to zones people know and experience today - including the city's historic downtown, the city's rural heritage and connections to nature, and its residential districts (please see sidebar on this page). City districts An idea that's related to the transect, but looks at the city from a bird's eye perspective (rather than through a cross-section, or head-on) is the identification of districts within the city. Just like with the transect, the districts themselves don't have to be exactly defined, but rather reflect some common characteristics that can help organize recommendations and thinking toward future action. What do residents want for their city's future? Throughout public engagement for development of the plan, St. Joseph residents expressed a strong desire to maintain the city's "small-town" atmosphere. Maintaining the city's identity even as it grows is an important goal for residents, businesses and leaders (a goal developed through public input, and consideration of current and future trends): Decisions regarding St. Joseph's future land development will respond to the city's history and natural and built surroundings, and enhance social capital. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 35 Simplified city districts ❑ City center / Downtown core ❑ General urban zone 1-1 Suburban zone ❑ Rural arc 7 Aframework of simplified districts can be helpful when thinking about next locations for development, or types of development that may be sought in specific areas of the city. This framework can also help orient more specific changes in the city's future land use and zoning regulations. Leveraging assets All communities have assets in place that provide a foundation for improvement and can help them achieve their vision. Recognizing those assets, however, can sometimes be difficult due to the fact that, since they currently exist (and are thus part of a community's everyday background) they can be easily taken for granted and not noticed. St. Joseph has many assets in place - many of which people do recognize, but also many others which may be less noticeable because they include familiar elements in combination with other city characteristics, or with larger trends and conditions. For example, St. Joseph's "small town feel," walkable downtown and educational institutions are familiar elements to current residents and perceptive visitors. What may be less apparent is that this specific combination is one of the hottest recipes for bringing new compact and walkable development to smaller cities throughout the country - and for revitalizing local economies. As baby boomers age and look for places where they can remain active, enjoy close-knit communities, access cultural opportunities and lifelong learning, and be within a community where they are surrounded by people of all ages, smaller 36 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN college towns have become the ideal setting for development. The compact, mixed use apartments that are being sought by seniors in these cities bring new vitality to downtown districts, solidify a city's tax base, and reinforce the walkable, pedestrian -oriented qualities that make the downtown and nearby residential neighborhoods attractive for a wide variety of households. What are some of St. Joseph's community assets? Here's a brief list, as received during community engagement for the plan: A brief listing of community assets The downtown core St. Joseph built environment includes rich historic elements in the downtown and college campus. Awalkable, distinctive core with well-preserved buildings adds to the city's character. 0 Vibrant arts community The arts and culture are valued in the city. Numerous venues host different forms of art: dance, music, theatre and others. Festivals and events create an enjoyable and stimulating environment for residents and visitors. 0 Welcoming public spaces St. Joseph's sidewalks, trails, parks, festivals and community buildings are open and welcoming public spaces. The historic downtown is an attractive place to be, with pedestrian - friendly amenities including mixed-use buildings, sidewalks, benches, wayfinding signage, art stores, restaurants, coffee shops, and landscaping. ®Education and knowledge St. Joseph is recognized for its educational institutions: a nationally -recognized private college, several private elementary schools, and a successful school district. St. Joseph residents and leaders appreciate and support their school system as it provides great facilities and a quality education. The college campus enhances the local school system and enriches community life. St. Benedict's beautiful buildings and cultural events are open to the community and its students, faculty, and staff contribute to the community's vitality and wellbeing. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 37 Land Use Land use refers to the activities that take place on the specific land parcels of a community. Changing over time, land uses reflect larger economic, social and structural factors. Land uses respond to marketforces and directions set forth in a city's land use planning policies, including its comprehensive plan, zoning regulations, and other policy documents. This section provides guidance for the city's future land use and development decisions so they match community vision and values, and includes a future land use map, showing uses that are anticipated to change over time. The transition of these properties from their current use to the depicted use is expected to occur over time, in response to market demands, as property owners voluntarily sell, develop, or change the use of their land. Other recommendations will be implemented through planning, zoning and subdivision ordinances, public improvements, and public and private partnerships. Overview St. Joseph's growth is likely to continue into the future. A variety of factors provide a foundation for that growth, including its proximity to St. Cloud and the Twin Cities, and attractive opportunities forfamilies and businesses. The location and type of new development that is permitted to occur will determine the city's further potential for economic growth, enhancement of its community character, and its appeal as a place to live, work, and play. Land uses in St. Joseph include residential, commercial, business, mixed use, light industrial, educational, open space and public uses. Growth in the 1990's and 2000's can be described as primarily low density residential. Mixed use development is allowed within the city's central business district and community oriented mixed use areas. Mill Stream Shops and Lofts is an example of a new successful mixed use redevelopment project with businesses at street level and residential units on the upper level. Additionally, 24 North (formally known as Bayou Blues) is another mixed use redevelopment project that has been approved with both business and residential units. 38 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN St. Joseph allows planned unit developments (PUD), which offer flexibility in zoning standards, such as allowing a mixture of housing types under single development. Successful examples of residential PUD's with a mixture of housing include Graceview Estates which includes single and multi -family residences, and Country Manor Senior Living Campus which includes planned single-family, multi -family, and commercial uses. Throughout the engagement process for the 2018 Comprehensive Plan, residents and business owners emphasized the importance of protecting the "small town" feel of St. Joseph. Land use decisions will influence the city's economic tax base, and its built and natural environment. Annexation of neighboring land may also impact St. Joseph's character and economic health. Redevelopment within the city's existing built environments may help preserve the city's current character. The City of St. Joseph is projected to grow but there is a strong desire to be sustainable, maintain the quality of life currently enjoyed by residents, and preserve the "small town" feel. The City has made a conscious decision to focus redevelopment in or near the City's core in established commercial and residential areas. Priority areas for redevelopment are the Central Business District and areas adjacent to CSAH 75. Key Findings A review of existing conditions was performed as part of the initial stages of the Comprehensive Plan Update. Information was compiled from various sources including the U.S. Census, GIS data, and existing policies and guidance from the 2008 Comprehensive Plan. Site visits and field review of the landscape was part of this analysis. Interviews were also conducted with key stakeholders to gain feedback on the existing environment. Housing stock Existing housing in the city is relatively stable, with more than half built within the last 25 years. Nevertheless, availability of new single-family housing may help attract new residents to the city (drawn to employment in the general area) and help support existing businesses. Housing demand for senior housing will continue to grow in the coming decades as the population ages. The College of St. Benedict provides student housing, which meets the current demand. Mixed-use developments can increase available housing stock while also boosting the St. Joseph economy. A Key Point about Future Land Uses Discussion about future land uses in this plan is based on the plan's guiding principles, and uses an intensity - based approach to managing land development in St. Joseph. Please note that the discussion and maps provided in some cases depict new land uses for privately owned properties. The transition of these properties from their current use to the depicted use is expected to occur over time, in response to market demands, as property owners voluntarily sell, develop, or change the use of their land. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 39 Changes in land use over time European settlers were attracted to St. Joseph because of its fertile soils. The College of St. Benedict was founded in 1913, providing a strong civic, cultural and economic foundation. The town quickly grew to 1,000 residents. The downtown and college still form the centerpiece of the community, with residential development occurring outward in all directions. While St. Joseph was first settled as an agricultural community, it has gone through several changes in its economy and role within the region. The completion of Interstate 94 in 1977 increased St. Joseph's interconnectivity with the state's economy and contributed to its growth. The city has shown signs of suburbanization since the 1980's as it experienced expansion from the college's growth. Urban character Many of the buildings in the city's core are well preserved examples of late 19th and early 20th century architecture. The presence of students at the College of St. Benedict has provided an opportunity for small niche business owners to locate downtown and cater to the needs of a younger demographic with businesses like pubs, coffee shops, and specialty stores. Today, the downtown area offer an engaging, pedestrian - oriented urban image. Automobile -oriented businesses are located along CSAH 75. New senior housing that capitalizes on the city's existing assets (walkable downtown, thriving cultural scene, convenient connection to nearby cities, and easy access to medical care) are evidence of a potential evolution in the city's growth potential. Importantly, the city's urban character (walkability and image) are strong contributors to this potential. Several franchise projects located along CSAH 75 are also evidence of economic growth. However, many residents noted that the character of large franchise retail that is located along CSAH 75 does not reflect the "small town" character of the city. St. Joseph's agricultural activities have decreased since the 1980s due to rapid residential growth and direct highway connections to area employment - providing new residents and tax base but also increasing the potential for the city becoming a bedroom community for the St. Cloud and Twin Cities metro areas. 40 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN How much land could the city need? Between 2017 and 2040, the city is expected to grow by approximately 2,580 people (an increase of almost 40% from today)for a total population of approximately 9,450 people. The land needed to accommodate this growth could be provided in the form of infill, redevelopment, land use densification, and/or expansion. Population projections are based on 2015American Community Survey population data, minus the community's student population (2,000 students). Household projections assume 2.5 people per household. Projections for consumption of land also depend on a number of variables. Projected residential acres are shown in a range, based on low, medium, and high residential density assumption, with additional consideration for roads and utilities. Regulatory policy that provides incentive for infill and redevelopment may be updated over time and change the amount of land that will be consumed. Any vacancies in current housing would also need to be filled before significant expansion or growth. These projections are not intended to project overall community growth in land area per se, but to explore the potential need for additional residential development, redevelopment, or infill to accommodate future households, and the impact of potential development policies on guiding densities and land consumption. Source: US Census Bureau, MIN State Demographic Center THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 41 "Projecte Projected residential inear household acres (Low �� density) *Projectedesidential esidential cres (High density) dditional 0% (from w den) for roads, etc *Projecte Medium cres density) *Projected HH=population-2000 students and 2.5 people per HH **Average lot size (acres) = 0.5 for low density, 0.18 for medium density and 0.1 for high density Source: US Census Bureau, MIN State Demographic Center THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 41 Residents' preferences regarding growth Throughoutthe process of development for this plan, community engagement opportunities offered residents, property owners and the general publican opportunityto provide insights on how the city should accommodate future growth. A survey collected responses regarding housing and future development. About 40% of respondents thought that there was a need for additional housing, with the most needed types being single-family detached housing (50%) and multi -family housing (about 20%). The role of commercial and industrial development For St. Joseph to remain an economically successful city it is important that it steward and provide appropriate spaces for its own commercial and industrial development - which will provide a solid base for employment growth and tax revenues, and for maintaining its identity while avoiding becoming a "bedroom community" for St. Cloud or the Twin Cities. Future Land Uses The Land Use Plan identifies desired uses throughout St. Joseph and its planning districts. The Land Use Plan classifications are a general guide while the zoning regulations govern development practice. The future land use designations work jointly with zoning designations to further the City's land use goals: Low Density Residential: Includes single family detached housing units typical of a traditional single-family neighborhood in St. Joseph. While a mix of renter -occupied housing should be accommodated, single-family neighborhoods are primarily comprised of owner -occupied housing. Appropriate densities for development range from one to four units per acre. Corresponding zoning districts include Agriculture, R-1 and PUD. Medium Density Residential: Accommodates a variety of housing types, including single-family, attached housing units, two-family, and townhomes. Appropriate densities for development range between two and six units per acre. Corresponding zoning districts include R-2, R-4, R-5, and PUD. High Density Residential: Includes multi -story apartments, condominiums, and townhomes. Provides a variety of housing options to persons of all ages. Typically located near higher density commercial uses, schools, and along highway corridors. Apartments along a collector or higher functioning roadway should be provided with adequate buffering. Corresponding zoning districts include R-3, R-4 and R-5, and PUD. 42 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Central Business: Includes the downtown area, the original core area of St. Joseph. Current regulations allow for existing uses and the conversion of single family dwellings to low impact non-residential uses such as office and service commercial uses. This area also allows for infill and redevelopment into a mix of land uses including residential, commercial, and civic. The area is to remain compact, walkable, vibrant, and pedestrian - friendly, and could include retail, service, office, housing, park, hospitality, and entertainment. The area allows for vertical mixed use buildings. Architecture and site design of the central business areas should be enhanced with building materials and include a variety of textures, colors and accents. Developments must be consistentwith the 2007 Downtown Design Guidelines. The corresponding zoning districts include B-1 and PUD. Community Oriented Mixed Use: Intended for commercial activities at locations where they are easily accessible to residential areas and adjacent neighborhoods. May include a mix of land uses including residential, commercial and civic and shall be walkable and pedestrian friendly. Architecture and site design of commercial and mixed use areas should be enhanced with building materials and include a variety of textures, colors and accents to enhance the visual appearance of the corridor. The corresponding zoning districts include B-3, R-5, and PUD. Corridor Commercial: Includes a range of retail, entertainment, office, and service commercial developments. Corridor Commercial areas are typically along collectors or higher functioning roadways, including CSAH 75 and County Road 133. Although they are generally auto -oriented, sites should be made pedestrian -friendly site through the addition of sidewalks and parking lot landscaping. Architecture and site design of commercial areas should be enhanced with building materials and include a variety of textures, colors and accents to enhance the visual appearance of the corridor.The corresponding zoning districts include B-2 and PUD. Light Industrial: Includes a variety of uses ranging from light manufacturing, assembly, distribution, warehouse and limited commercial service uses. Industrial uses should be well buffered and screened to minimize noise, light, and other environmental nuisances to adjacent commercial and residential areas. The corresponding zoning districts include 1-1. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 43 Educational: Intended for public and private educational and ecclesiastical institutions, including facilities that are part of the educational institution. Uses include monasteries, colleges, places of worship, and primary, secondary and vocational schools. The corresponding zoning districts include EE and PUD. Open Space: Areas used for active and passive recreation and natural areas. These include neighborhood and regional parks and open spaces areas within St. Joseph. Public: Intended for state, federal, and local government uses and quasi -public institutions. Uses include city hall, police station, fire station, public work facilities, post offices, public schools, community centers, and libraries. Walking, biking and transit access is particularly important. The corresponding zoning districts include Public and PUD. Planned Unit Development: St. Joseph may allow neighborhoods with a variety of housing types and densities within a single development through a Planned Unit Development. If a mixed residential development is proposed, separation of housing types through setbacks and landscaping must be attained. Uses such as public, schools, places of worship, and parks are appropriate within residential and commercial areas. Orderly Annexation The City of St. Joseph has an orderly annexation agreement (OAA) with St. Joseph Township. This allows St. Joseph to move forward with growth plans and encourages managed growth and development of rural lands located in proximity to the urbanized area of St. Joseph. The City of St. Joseph and St. Wendel Township previously held annexations discussions in the early 2000's; however, it was the consensus of the township that annexation was not appropriate. The City of St. Joseph has agreed to provide a centralized urban service to St. Wendel Township when a petition is submitted and approved. 44 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Priority Redevelopment Areas The City has identified areas along the CSAH 75 corridor and in the downtown area that are appropriate for redevelopment. Those areas include properties that are within the Central Business District and the Highway Business District, and include commercial and residential buildings that are in substandard condition. The purpose of these redevelopment areas is to achieve the highest and best use for these properties as well as establish appropriate land use in relation to their location. Maps of the redevelopment areas are included here, and also in the Economic Development chapter of this plan. Downtown Redevelopment Area North of CSAH 75 Redevelopment Area CSAH 75 and Old Highway 52 Redevelopment Area CSAH 75 and 8th Avenue NE Redevelopment Area Minnesota Street and Chapel Lane Redevelopment Area THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 45 A Key Point about the Future Land Use Map The Future Land Use Map is based on the plan's guiding principles, and uses an intensity -based approach to managing land development in St. Joseph. The Future Land Use Map, along with the plan's text are intended to guide land use, zoning, and physical development of the City consistent with the City's vision. The map in some cases depicts new land uses for privately owned properties. The transition of these properties from their current use to the depicted use is expected to occur over time, in response to market demands, as property owners voluntarily sell, develop, or change the use of their land. Future Land Use Map The land use map shows future land use considerations. The areas outlined in white dotted lines represent areas that are proposed to change from current land use designations. 46 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Open SpaceLight _T \J-1 Industrial These areas are intended Includes light manufacturing, for outdoor recreation and K Lq assembly distribution, natural areas. Examples 0 warehouse and limited include neighborhood and commercial service uses. regional parks. �1 1 1 133 Central Business District �, " Corridor Commercial This includes the downtown This area runs along CSAH area and the original core. --- 1 L—.— / I - 75 and County Road Zone allows for mixed use buildings, office and service - �� J/7 �+ / /� % 133. It includes retail, entertainment, offices, commercial uses. �s and service commercial developments. —� Community Oriented Mixed Use High Density Residential This zone is intended for • 1 Includes multi -story commerce that is easily 75 apartments, condominiums, accessible to residential r ' ` © '; and townhomes. Typically areas. Area should be 134 - located near higher density walkable and pedestrian friendly. // _ commercial uses, schools, and highway corridors. 75 Educational +'" - Intended for public and private educational and ecclesiastical institutions. Examples include College of St. Benedict and Kennedy Community School. I I fes/ Medium Density Residential This zone includes single and two family housing units, and Legend town homes. Appropriate for development two to - �i of six E ] City Limit I i;� a units per acre. Central Business District Community Oriented Mixed Use Low w Density Residential Corridor Commercial �~ 1 This zone includes single Light Industrial J r family detached housing units. Accommodates for Low Density Residential � development of one to four Medium Density Residential ) � ■ 1 units per acre. High Density Residential �� Educational Open Space _ Public This zone is intended for state, Public federal, and local government ' uses and public institutions. Water Examples include city hall, %W/, Area where land use is changing 0 0.5 1 mile m and government centers. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 147 Land Use Updates Locations where a change in land use is suggested are described below. In some cases new land uses are suggested for privately owned properties. The transition of these properties from their current use to the suggested use is expected to occur over time, in response to market demands, as property owners voluntarily sell, develop, or change the use of their land. Some locations lie outside of the City of St. Joseph and could be incorporated as land becomes annexable. 1. Central Business District This zone can provide space and focus for current and future development and growth of the City's downtown. Mixed use, high density housing, and infill development oriented to a walkable, pedestrian scale are key components for successful development here. 3. Central Business District This zone can provide space and focus for current and future development and growth of the City's downtown. Mixed use, high density housing, and infill development oriented to a walkable, pedestrian scale are key components for successful development here. 5. Public Population growth will increase demand for public facilities and services. Land use changes in this area reflect the location of the new Government Center and additional community -oriented uses. 2. Community Oriented Mixed Use Located directly next to the downtown area, this area could provide additional commercial and housing options for residents and visitors. This change allows additional businesses and residents to relocate near the City's core. 4. Corridor Commercial Located along CSAH 75, shifting land use in this site to commercial corridor provides additional space for businesses catering to visitors traveling on that corridor. 6. Corridor Commercial Highway 133 connects motor vehicle traffic to Highway 75 and the downtown area. Land use in this area is suggested to change to corridor commercial to capitalize on the area's potential to support a higher level of commercial activity. 48 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 7.On -ace Located within the heart of a residential area, the suggested change of land use to open space will help offer recreational optionsto nearbyneighbors and other community residents. 9. Corridor Commercial This zone is suggested as commercial corridor to expand land used for commercial activity. The space will allow additional businesses to provide employment and services for area residents and visitors traveling along CSAH 75. 8. High Density Residential As St. Joseph's population grows, there will be higher demand for different housing options. Offering higher -density residential land uses in southeastern part of the city will make possible the development of town -homes, condominiums, and apartments accommodating young families, young professionals and students. An increase in residential population will help support nearby mixed-use developments. This open space area provides access to the Sauk River while also buffering it from pollutants and runoff from surrounding residential areas, and protecting land and aquatic habitats. What could it look like? Townhouses help increase the range of housing Pedestrian -oriented streetscapes draw residents options available to local residents. and visitors and are good for business. New development and rehabilitation of older buildings can occur even within the same block. Mixed-use buildings offer housing and commerce to residents and visitors. Apartments can offer high density housing while Art, trees and places to sit and linger help create reflecting a community's character. more vibrant community places. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 49 Land Use Goals The Comprehensive Plan's goals for Land Use in St. Joseph were developed through public input, and consideration of current and future trends. �_ Goal 1: Preserve and enhance St. Joseph's °®gym identity and small town character Strategies 1.1 Develop a new set of urban design guidelines that address current conditions and community preferences, respond to St. Joseph's traditional form and character, and offer guidance for each of the city's transect zones (see Chapter 3.1) to yield development that reflects the local character of St. Joseph. 1.2 Work to retain attractive, historic buildings within the downtown community. 1.3 Create regulations that blend new developments into the existing character of the streetscape. 1.4 Ensure community gateways are welcoming and attractive. Work to improve attractiveness of primary gateways and corridors, especially Minnesota Street and CSAH 75. Gateway elements could include landscaping, lighting, signage, street furniture, public art and innovative streetscape improvements. 1.5 Create regulations that support pedestrian -oriented development and spaces to create a well-designed community that is welcoming, healthy and safe. The focus of these efforts should be directed in the downtown and urban areas. 1.6 Monitor resident and business opinions on land use balance and prepare ordinances and policies that reflect this balance. 1.7 Promote redevelopment and infill in downtown and urban development where feasible to leverage infrastructure investment and strengthen community vitality and cohesion. 1.8 Encourage art and wayfinding within the community. Partner with local artists to showcase art. 5o I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ,.�.. Goal 2: Support the economic vitality of St. Joseph's downtown Strategies 2.1 Retain and attract an appropriate mix of retail/service businesses and housing in the Downtown. 2.2 Encourage innovative housing opportunities in the Downtown. 2.3 Evaluate and adoptdesign guidelinesto assure a high quality and variety in building design, an active connected streetscape, and walkable downtown. 2.4 Continue to enhance and maintain downtown. Consider implementation of a downtown improvement district. 2.5 Ensure all new pedestrian, bicycle and vehicular networks are connected to the downtown. 2.6 Create to understa THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 51 What we heard a Goal 3: Promote sustainable development Strategies 3.1 Support redevelopment and infill development throughout the city but especially in the downtown area and along the CSAH 75 corridor. Provide incentives to encourage redevelopment and infill development. 3.2 Support orderly growth. Provide for an orderly and efficient transitionfrom rural to urban land uses. Planforgrowth areasthat reflect city priorities for development staging and contiguous, planned extension of public infrastructure. 3.3 Encourage innovative land use patterns such as clustering of development in suburban and rural areas that contain sensitive or significant natural or cultural resources or where it would benefit the community. 3.4 Protect and enhance natural resources, such as rivers, lakes, wetlands, woodlands and wildlife habitat as growth occurs in suburban and rural areas 3.5 Evaluate and adopt standards on solar and wind energy. Goal 4: Create neighborhoods that are well designed to attract new residents Strategies 4.1 Create a community that is connected, walkable, and safely accessible through sidewalks, trails and streets. Develop connections between neighborhoods, parks, schools, businesses and community facilities. These efforts should be focused on downtown, urban, and suburban areas. 4.2 Expand the Lake Wobegon Trail to connect to existing sidewalk infrastructure and neighborhoods. 4.3 Streamline the review process for projects that provide environmental and aesthetic development benefits. 4.4 Create regulations thatyield commercial and office structures that reflect St. Joseph's character (and minimize franchise/ corporate structures) in urban and downtown areas. 52 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Goal 5: Promote efficient land development and management of growth Strategies 5.1 Work with state, regional and local entities to manage growth and enhance the region - including Stearns County, St. Cloud Area Planning Organization, St. Joseph Township, local area cities, educational institutions, and others. 5.2 Support land use and zoning decisions, policies, ordinances and improvements that are based on Smart Growth Principles. Smart growth principles promote compact, efficient and sustainable development, including accessible, multimodal transportation system connecting housing, jobs, shopping and services, schools, and recreation facilities while protecting the natural environment. Core principles of Smart Growth include: Mix land uses Take advantage of compact building design Create a range of housing opportunities and choices -- Create walkable neighborhoods • Foster distinctive, attractive communities with a strong sense of place • Preserve open space, farmland, natural beauty, and critical environmental areas • Strengthen and direct development towards existing communities • Provide a variety of transportation choices • Make development decisions predictable, fair and cost - THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 53 effective • Encourage citizen and stakeholder collaboration in development decisions 5.3 Collaborate with St. Joseph Township to help ensure land use decisions in areas likely to become urban in the future don't hinder future provision of services - e.g. development of subdivisions with decentralized water/sewer facilities in the orderly annexation area. 5.4 Continue to plan for necessary infrastructure improvements through a capital improvement plan. 5.5 Collaborate with Stearns County and St. Joseph Township to minimize conflicts between agriculture and non-farm uses through local ordinances. 5.6 Consider completing a natural resources inventory (NRI) to identify the location, quantity and quality of natural resources within the City and annexation area. Such information can be used to prioritize areas for protection and preservation as urban development occurs. Upon completion of an NRI, consider the creation of an environmentally sensitive areas ordinance. 54 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Housing Overview It is hard to imagine a statement of deeper commitment to a place than choosing to live there. What we call "housing," the response to a universally recognized basic human need for shelter and protection from the elements, is in fact one of the foundations of community. It is in most societies the center of family life, of the nurturing of the young and the caring for the old; a place for rest and recuperation from the labors of the day, where cultural and social knowledge is passed between generations. Words like "home" and "hearth" begin to express the special meanings that societies have associated with housing and the role it plays within them. While people visit St. Joseph for shopping, business, or entertainment, their decision to stay and live in the community depends on the available housing stock and how it matches with their needs. Key Findings Between 2000 to 2010 the number of housing units in St. Joseph increased by 33% from 1,147 to 1,912. St. Joseph's housing stock is mostly single family homes that are owner - occupied. The median housing value in St. Joseph is lower than in Stearns County but the median rent is comparable. About 6% of all housing is made up of studio/ one bedroom units, and more than 75 percent of units have three or more bedrooms. The majority of housing in St. Joseph is relatively new with over 50% built in 1990 or later. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 55 Housi Units 1 r000...2010 10 Change 2010 000 St. Joseph 1,147 1,912 33% St. Joseph Township 876 740 -16% Waite Park 3,065 3,424 12% Sartell 3,531 6,123 73% Sauk Rapids 4,017 5,219 30% St. Cloud 23,249 27,338 18% Stearns County 50,291 61,974 23% Source: US Census Bureau, MIN State Demographic Center. Housin Units .- - Studio Percent 2.30% 1 Bedroom 3.40% 2 Bedrooms 18.20% 3 Bedrooms 35.60% 4 Bedrooms 23.30% 5 or more Bedrooms 17.10% Built 2000 or later 37.40% Built 1990-1999 19.60% Built 1989-1980 7.60% Built 1979-1970 13.70% Built 1969-1960 11% Built 1959 or earlier 110.80%1 Source: US Census Bureau, MIN State Demographic Center. Housing Snapshot St. Joseph has an appropriate ratio of non -student rental (30.7%) to owner -occupied (69.3%) as determined by the benchmark levels assigned in the Metropolitan Livable Communities Act for rural growth centers. St. Joseph also has a lower gross median rentthan the neighboring communities of Waite Park and Sartell. St. Cloud and Sauk Rapids have a slightly lower median gross rent than St. Joseph. The median housing value of St. Joseph is $160,900 which is higher than that of St. Cloud ($141,300) but lower than the county average ($166,400). The city offers a range of housing types, from studio apartments and single-family detached housing to houses with five or more bedrooms. About a third of the housing stock are dwellings with three bedrooms (35.6%) and very few dwellings are studio (2.3%) or 1 -bedroom (3.4%). Apartments with five or more bedrooms provide flexible housing options both to students and to large, multi -generational and/or immigrant families. About two-thirds of the housing units were built after 1980 and are less likely to need immediate rehabilitation and/or redevelopment. To attract new residents to support growth in the city's population and economy, housing will need to be available for differing income levels and offer multi -family and single family units. Currently, the majority of St. Joseph residents are between the ages of 20-34. This is mostly due to the presence of a college, but is also reflective of the presence of housing options for first-time home -buyers and young families. There is a high percentage of youth from newborn to 19 -year-olds (about 33%). The College of St. Benedict and St. John's University recently announced that they will require students to live in on -campus housing, unless granted permission from the school to live at home or in local housing. This housing requirement alters the demand of detached -single family homes in the City and may impact the volume of apartments designated for student rental. 56 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Source: US Census Bureau, MN State Demographic Center. Housing Goals The Comprehensive Plan's goals for housing in St. Joseph were developed through public input, and consideration of current and future trends. oo Goal 1: Create a diversity of housing options within the city Strategies 1.1 Establish standards for new housing developments that create a diversity of housing types appropriate for St. Joseph. 1.2 Revise zoning and subdivision ordinances to encourage a wider range of housing types, including mixed-use, accessory dwelling units, modular homes and manufactured home parks. 1.3 Develop urban design guidelines for how mixed-use housing in downtown and urban areas addresses public spaces and incorporates retail and service businesses. 1.4 As necessary, conduct a city-wide housing survey to identify housing types, values, and vacancy rates to help determine future housing development. 1.5 Establish standards for compact residential development and infill in the downtown and urban areas. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 57 - - - . Renter Occupied - Median Median Persons Gross Housing Per Rent Values Household 77 Owner Occupied St. Joseph 69.30% 30.70% $727 $160,900 2.62 St. Joseph Township 88.20% 11.80% $733 $221,400 2.64 Waite Park 42.10% 57.900/c• $800 $131,400 2.1 f` Sartell 69.20% 30.80% $969 $179,600 2.61 Sauk Rapids 63.40% 36.60% $643 $147,900 2.48 St. Cloud 52% 48% $721 $141,300 2.37 Stearns County 70% 30% $742 $166,400 2.53 Source: US Census Bureau, MN State Demographic Center. Housing Goals The Comprehensive Plan's goals for housing in St. Joseph were developed through public input, and consideration of current and future trends. oo Goal 1: Create a diversity of housing options within the city Strategies 1.1 Establish standards for new housing developments that create a diversity of housing types appropriate for St. Joseph. 1.2 Revise zoning and subdivision ordinances to encourage a wider range of housing types, including mixed-use, accessory dwelling units, modular homes and manufactured home parks. 1.3 Develop urban design guidelines for how mixed-use housing in downtown and urban areas addresses public spaces and incorporates retail and service businesses. 1.4 As necessary, conduct a city-wide housing survey to identify housing types, values, and vacancy rates to help determine future housing development. 1.5 Establish standards for compact residential development and infill in the downtown and urban areas. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 57 What we heard Goal 2: Preserve the character of existing neighborhoods that give St. Joseph a sense of place Strategies 2.1 Establish standards for replacement of homes so that new developments match the character of the existing neighborhood, and establish regulations for the demolition or moving of housing units. 2.2 Encourage rehabilitation of deteriorating homes and the reuse of existing buildings to preserve neighborhood values and standards. 2.3 Establish a board or committee to review infill housing development opportunities and determine if they are compatible with the design of neighborhoods. 2.4 Encourage preservation of historically -significant buildings in the downtown and urban areas, neighborhoods, and cultural events. Goal 3: Assist in the planning and construction of affordable housing options Strategies 3.1 Encourage public and private partnerships to applyfor local, state, and federal funding to cover the gap between affordable housing revenue and costs. Potential partners are Stearns County HRA, land trust organizations, non-profit organizations and others who can help plan, finance and develop affordable housing. 3.2 Encourage renter and owner -occupied developments that offer a mix of housing costs. 3.3 Ensure that housing developments are accessible to community resources such as jobs, retail districts, and walking, biking and transit networks. 3.4 Work with local institutions and professionals to provide educational resources and publicationsforfirst-timehome buyers. 3.5 Encourage the maintenance and construction of pre- fabricated / manufactured homes to provide additional 58 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN affordable housing options in urban, suburban and rural areas. 3.6 Allow for accessory dwelling units as residential housing, especially near the downtown and urban areas. Goal 4: Encourage existing and new housing developments to be well- maintained, environmentally friendly, and energy efficient Strategies 4.1 Adopt standards to ensure that new housing developments are constructed to be energy efficient and environmentally friendly. 4.2 Establish regulations that provide pedestrian and bicycle connections through neighborhoods and connection to local businesses. 4.3 Review the City's ordinance for homeowners to rehabilitate and maintain structures that are notconforming to environmental standards. 4.4 Enforce ordinances that provide minimums in housing maintenance. 4.5 Provide informational resources to residents on ways to reduce energy and water usage. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 59 Mobility and Transportation Overview We travel to take care of our daily needs. We go to work, get the groceries, get our children to school or daycare - and though we sometimes choose our mode of travel out of habit, we often weigh several factors before deciding on our options. How convenient is it? How expensive will it be to travel there? Will I be safe if I choose this mode or go this route? Can I see something interesting on the way if I travel in this way? Will I maybe see a friend? In this chapter we look at transportation through the lens of "mobility," which the dictionary defines as "the ability to move freely and easily." We have grown, in our society, to think of transportation as something that must almost always center around vehicles. Mobility is much simpler. How do we make it more convenientto getfrom pointAfrom point B in StJoseph? How do we make it easier for adults to get to work, for children to get to the park, for families to get their groceries in a way that responds to the goals and vision that shape this plan? This is important because how people get around their communities has an impact on health, business vitality, community safety, and even civic engagement. Walking, rolling, biking, taking transit, and driving a car are all useful methods of getting around, and a community's infrastructure should encourage safe mobility for all users regardless of their mode of travel. Existing Conditions Walkability and pedestrian networks Walking is a foundation for individuals' health, well-being and sense of connection. Walking is free and accessible for people through the widest range of ages, income levels and physical abilities. It is the most basic form of transportation - at some point during every trip, everyone is a pedestrian. In some places it is not always easy to walk. Low -quality infrastructure and connections across roadways can hinder this simple and free form of transportation. Fortunately, St. Joseph has a solid network of pedestrian infrastructure, including sidewalks, crosswalks, and other features. These pieces of 60 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN infrastructure can be improved and added upon to create a safer, healthier, more mobile and livable community. A large number of residents stated that they prefer to make trips by walking or biking. Currently there are limited opportunities for active transportation, especially through residential areas. This discourages walking or biking trips. • Local street design can encourage active transportation by including sidewalks, bikeways and landscaping. • Storefronts should be positioned to support a pedestrian - scale environment. • The sidewalk network should be connected to local destinations and recreational and commercial uses. • Active transportation should connect the south and north side of the City. Safe mobility across CSAH 75 should be provided for pedestrians. Bikeability and bicycle networks Like walking, bicycling offers mobility and connectivity at a relatively low costforresidents young and old alike. Communities that provide safe, comfortable and convenient facilities for walking and biking allow residents to more easily access school, transit, employment, services, recreation, and everyday needs using healthy and sustainable options. St. Joseph hosts a trailhead for the Lake Wobegon Trail, and has initiated development of additional bike -related infrastructure, including development of a bike trail along CSAH 75 connecting St. Cloud to the heart of the downtown. Some recommendations for improving bicycling in the city include: • Improving wayfinding and signs to let users know how to connect to destinations in the city and to nearby trails • Developing a network of biking routes through the city • Improving the quality of bicycle routes by developing connecting trails, separated bicycle lanes, and by providing visible and legible bicycle infrastructure • Including bicycle facilities in future development • Introducing traffic -calming measures where necessary to increase safety and perception of safety by bicycle riders • Providing safe crossings for pedestrians and bicyclists across CSAH 75. What we heard LAKE WOBEGON WELCOME CEXTER PARIiIHG THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 61 Public Transportation Jefferson Lines College Connection and Tri -Cap Transit Connection provide transit services in the St. Joseph Area. In the city, Tri -Cap Transit provides dial -a -ride service around St. Joseph and to St. Cloud. Jefferson Lines College Connection provides weekend shuttles to Maple Grove, Mall of America and University of Minnesota. The College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University provide a shuttle that runs between the two every 30 minutes. Motor vehicle travel and networks Roadway classifications. Roads in St. Joseph fall into the following categories: Principal Arterials, Minor Arterials, Community (Major) Collector, Neighborhood (Minor) Collector, and Local/Neighborhood Roads. Interstate 94 and County State Aid Highway 75. Interstate 94 access provides key regional connections for commerce in and around St. Joseph as well as opportunities to attract new commercial activity. County State Aid Highway 75 ("CSAH 75") is an important transportation corridor for the city. The most recent Minnesota Department of Transportation traffic counts show a peak adjusted average daily traffic of 22,700 trips per day. East-West Corridor. The first phase of a new east -west collector in the southern portion of St. Joseph known as Field Street has been completed. The new east/west collector street was identified as a need through previous transportation planning due to a lack of east/west connectivity within the city. Ultimately, Field Street will connect further east to 20th Avenue SE to CSAH 75. This street is expected to improve traffic movement and safety, as well as open up opportunities for new residential and commercial development. North Corridor and CSAH 2 Realignment. A traffic study was conducted on St. Joseph County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 2 to realign CSAH 2 to the west of the city center, connecting it to CSAH 75 at CSAH 3. Construction of the realignment was completed in 2012, which also included construction of a 10 - foot wide bituminous trail on the east side of CR 2 and CR 3 connecting to the Lake Wobegon Trail. A second phase of the project (North Corridor) includes a future east/west street connecting to CR 133 improving traffic movement and opening up opportunities for new development. At this time, the second phase of the project is not funded. 62 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Traffic Volumes. 2015 average annual daily traffic counts for typical St. Joseph streets range between 400 and 6,300 motor - vehicles per day. The exception is CSAH 75, which at 22,700 motor -vehicles per day, carries more than triple the traffic volume of any other local road. Current documents: Transportation Plan The city's most recent Transportation Plan was developed in 2006, and was amended in 2012. The document is attached to this 2018 Comprehensive Plan as Appendix A.4. The purpose of the Transportation Plan is to guide the City and future landownerswhen preparing for growth and development. It provides the framework for decisions regarding existing and planned new roadway to ensure that development improves safety, increase access, mobility, and performance of the roadway system. The Transportation Plan incorporates local policies, standards, and guidelines so that it is coordinated with county, regional, and state efforts, and can be a helpful tool to enhance the economic and residential vitality of the City. Priority strategies Transportation facilities and infrastructure should include the safety and mobility needs of pedestrians and bicyclists. Throughout engagementforthe Comprehensive Plan,St.Joseph residents expressed the need for a safe system that connects pedestrians and bicyclists throughout different parts of the city. Currently, many neighborhoods lack proper infrastructure, such as bike lanes and sidewalks, that provide safe and comfortable mobility. Additionally, inadequate infrastructure restricts access for people with disabilities. As the St. Joseph population becomes older, this issue will become more prevalent. CSAH 75 bisects the city and creates a significant barrier to the mobility of pedestrians and bicyclists. Pedestrian and bicycle facilities should be provided to facilitate movement across this highway. Incorporating sidewalks into current and future land development will encourage pedestrian -friendly neighborhoods. The Lake Wobegon Trail is a great community asset that allows for east - west travel in the city. The city should consider implementing a What we heard THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 63 similar trail that allows for north -south travel and connects to the downtown area. Any current or future expansion of land use should plan to incorporate efficient transportation systems. City leaders should use the Transportation Plan to ensure that transportation facilities develop in harmony with the increases in land use. Communities like St. Joseph face a distinct challenge when managing land use adjacent to high traffic corridors. The challenge lies in the interdependent and variable relationship between land use patterns and transportation systems. Land use planning helps predict transportation needs, but transportation facilities can sometimes determine the form of the development that occurs, or even whether that development occurs at all. A key consideration for managing this conundrum is clarifying the role that city policy and guidance plays in steering the form and location of development - that is, that it does not occur in a vacuum, and that the role of leadership and management is to steer development toward the vision and values that city residents, businesses and staff have articulated for theirfuture. Transportation Goals The Comprehensive Plan's goals for mobility and transportation in St.Josephwere developed through publicinput, consideration of current and future trends: • r Goal 1: Improve Transportation Framework Strategies 1.1 Explore the extension of St. Cloud Metro Bus service to St. Joseph. 1.2 Collaborate with Stearns County and the St. Cloud Area Planning Organization on roadway and pedestrian connection improvements in downtown, urban, and suburban areas. 1.3 Identify and review key metrics for potential transportation system deficiencies, such as crash data and accessibility. 1.4 Implement traffic calming measures where appropriate to reduce motor -vehicle speed in residential areas. 1.5 Require the dedication of right-of-way consistent with the adopted right-of-way standards to ensure safe and high performing roadways. 64 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1.6 Limit direct access to major thoroughfares in order to maintain safe and efficient roadway operations. 0 Goal 2: Plan, develop and maintain a safe and accessible multi -modal transportation system Strategies 2.1 Develop a pedestrian and bicycle plan that summarizes existing walk / bike issues and offers strategic guidance and solutions for improving user safety, comfort, convenience and connectivity and growing use of walking and biking for everyday travel in the city. 2.2 New development and redevelopment proposals shall require connectivity of streets and pedestrian facilities in all urban and suburban areas. 2.3 Require sidewalks (or off-street trails or on -street bikeways where planned and appropriate) on all new subdivisions and new streets and if feasible on road reconstruction projects. 2.4 Connect and maintain an interconnected pedestrian and bicycle system that links residential, institutional, educational, commercial, employment, and recreational destinations. 2.5 Identify pedestrian and bicycle transportation gaps. Build sidewalk or trail segments where there is a missing connection in the trail/sidewalk transportation system. 2.6 Use a Complete Streets methodology in the design of all streets (to decide where implementation is desirable and to prioritize and implement improvements where feasible). Consider adopting a Complete Streets ordinance. 2.7 Improve the safety of pedestrian and bicyclist crossings of CSAH 75. Review the CSAH 75 Pedestrian Crossing Study and identify if any further areas of study are needed. Where feasible and as determined, implement the recommendations as identified within the study. Goal 3: Implement the Comprehensive Transportation Plan Strategies 3.1 Periodically review the Transportation Plan and update it as needed. 3.2 Implement the Transportation Plan and ensure development projects are consistent with its guidance. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 65 Economic Development Overview Cities are places of activity and commerce. Healthy commercial areas draw in people who bring their energy and economic resources and who, through their purchases and investments, contribute towards the improvement of these places. The purpose of this section is guide future economic development and redevelopment in St. Joseph. Local businesses provide needed goods and services for residents, unique goods and experiences for visitors, and generate investments that remain in the communities where they are located. Local businesses also provide employment opportunities for residents, and help increase the sense of connection in a community. St. Joseph is a relatively small town of approximately 7,000 people. The City has many great assets: its "small town" character and historic downtown, vital arts and cultural events, and "mom and pop" shops. A nationally -recognized liberal arts college, the College of St. Benedict, adds to the intellectual capital of the city and its residents. Coupled with the city's proximity to both the Twin Cities and St. Cloud, St. Joseph's prospects for continued vitality are bright. Key Findings Economic development is not just about businesses and industries, but about maintaining a vibrant livable community that will attract workforce and businesses. It usually includes the adoption of new technology, transition between types of industries, and improvement of living standards. It can also guide how to create and retain desirable jobs providing a good standard of living to a city's residents. Education is the largest industry in St. Joseph with the College of Saint Benedict, Kennedy Community School, and All Saints Academy being among the largest employers. Education employment is dependent on enrollment. Currently, the college does not anticipate any growth in enrollment, which means that education employment is not likely to grow. Any rapid future population growth in St. Joseph would mean either 66 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN that non -education job growth in the community has accelerated or more residents are commuting to St. Cloud. Employment in a community is tied closely with household growth. There must be jobs available within St. Joseph or within a reasonable driving distance in order for St. Joseph to grow. St. Joseph and the region are performing moderately well and should continue to attract additional development. Other considerations Local Downtown Businesses Both large commercial businesses and smaller -scale "Mom and Pop" shops are important to the residents of St. Joseph. New Commercial and Industrial Uses Attracting new commercial as well as industrial businesses will help diversify the city's tax base and increase employment. A significant percentage of property within St. Joseph is tax exempt posing challenges for the City. Proximity to the Greater St. Cloud Region St. Joseph's close proximity to the greater St. Cloud area makes it easy for residents to travel across city borders to purchase goods and services. Participants in the plan's community engagement activities saw this as a potential threat and as an opportunity to the health of local businesses: • If St. Joseph residents can access other businesses in St. Cloud, they may choose to spend their money there and not support local businesses • If St. Cloud area residents are attracted to visiting St. Joseph (because it offers them an engaging and vital Main Street experience that they can't have elsewhere) they will likely spend their money in St. Joseph and will help improve economic activity in the community. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 67 Current Efforts The City is actively pursuing economic development and working toward diversifying its tax base. The following services to businesses considering locating, expanding or redeveloping within St. Joseph are provided: Business Retention and Expansion Program The St. Joseph Economic Development Authority (EDA) works to keep existing businesses and to attract new businesses to the city. Keeping an existing business in a community is usually easier and more economically efficient than attracting a new business. The EDA and city staff visit with existing businesses as part of their Business Retention and Expansion (BR & E) Program as a way to hear and address any needs the business has. Public Financial Assistance The EDA also offers financial resources to assist existing and new businesses, including the Business Facade Architectural Grant and Demolition Grant Programs, Tax Increment Financing (TIF), Tax Abatement, and a Revolving Loan Fund. Grant Preparation The City directly or partners with an organization to prepare grant application to various state and federal programs as specific projects are identified and potential grant resources are available. Examples include Minnesota Investment Fund, Small Cities Grant Program, and Business Development Public Infrastructure Grant Program. Community Promotion The City promotes economic development through the city website, a community profile flyer and participation in the Chamber of Commerce and Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation. Additionally, in 2016 the City approved a lodging ordinance for collection of a lodging tax which will be used for future marketing of St. Joseph. 68 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Site and Building Selection The City provides assistance with locating existing building space or property for development or redevelopment. Demographic and Community Research The City compiles up to date demographic information and undertakes planning studies. This information is shared with site selectors (professionals who help business find new locations) and business leads. Small Business Resources The City connects businesses with the various local and state resources, including the Small Business Development Center, Small Business Administration, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, and Minnesota Business Finance Corporation. Priority Redevelopment Areas The City has identified areas along the CSAH 75 corridor and in the downtown area that are appropriate for redevelopment. Those areas include properties that are within the Central Business District and the Highway Business District, and include commercial and residential buildings that are in substandard condition. The purpose of these redevelopment areas is to achieve the highest and best use for these properties as well as establish appropriate land use in relation to their location. Maps of the redevelopment areas are provided on the following pages. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 69 x w rt Downtown Redevelopment Map North of CSAH 7S Redevelopment Map 70 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Minnesota Street and Chapel Lane Redevelopment Map CSAH 75 and 8th Avenue NE Redevelopment Map CSAH 75 and Old Highway 52 Redevelopment Map THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 71 Economic Development Goals The Comprehensive Plan's goals for Economic Development in St. Joseph were developed through public input, consideration of current and future trends: (0 Goal 1: Retain, attract and grow business Strategies 1.1 Develop a "shop local" campaign A strong local economy will attract new companies and businesses, and support the ongoing vitality of the city. 1.2 Support and enhance existing businesses Seek opportunities to learn about and solve barriers to retention of businesses like a Business Mentorship Program or Business Retention Program. 1.3 Develop and distribute key informational resources, such as guidelines and best practices, to support decision-making and viability of existing businesses. 1.4 Directory of locally -owned businesses St. Joseph residents expressed strong support for unique, local shops and for keeping the small town character in the downtown and urban areas. Develop a directory of existing St. Joseph businesses to allow residents and other businesses to easilyfind what they need from their local shops. For an example, please see www.1212na.org/shop-12owderhorn 1.5 Support focused redevelopment in downtown Development in the downtown area should be consistent with the area's existing character, emphasize a pedestrian -oriented scale for development, and link to existing pedestrian and bicycle networks. Downtown redevelopment should include retail, professional services, arts and entertainment, and housing. Mixed-use developments are recommended for incorporating multiple uses and creating a people -centered environment. 1.6 Support the redevelopment of CSAH 75 area The development of CSAH 75 will increase commerce and tourism, as well as efficient transportation across the City. Redevelopment of this area will also prioritize safe mobility for pedestrians and bicyclists to connectthe southern and northern regions of the City. 72 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1.7 Attract larger businesses Create strategic plans to attract large businesses that require a large employee base. New businesses should reflect the values, vision, needs of the St. Joseph community. If possible, businesses should consider brownfield sites to revitalize existing urban and suburban areas. 1.8 Develop a pipeline of trained interns and potential new staff into existing and new businesses Partner with local educational institutions to connect students and recent graduates with local employers, and support the staffing needs of new and growing businesses. 1.9 Support the development of business incubators for local start-ups Business incubator spaces provide small spaces that are affordable to start- up businesses. Work with local developers and property owners to develop a business incubator in the walkable Downtown area of St. Joseph (attractive to software or tech start-ups), as well as in the industrial areas of the city (attractive to manufacturing start-ups). 0 Goal 2: Focus on competitiveness Strategies 2.1 Establish and maintain public and private partnerships Public entities should collaborate with private entities, when possible. 2.2 Provide business incentives Consider comprehensive incentives to support healthy growth of existing businesses and encourage them to remain in the city, and to attract new businesses. 2.3 Review land use and zoning standards Zoning standards should reflect current needs of communitywhile creating new opportunities for residential and commercial growth. 2.4 Attract technology innovation Partner with technology companies to provide additional resources for existing businesses, and attract new businesses and professionals. 2.5 Seek grant opportunities Public community-based projects should be partly funded by outside grants. What we heard THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 73 a Goal 3: Provide a high quality life Strategies 3.1 Preserve community character Downtown businesses should reflect the "small-town" character to create a sense of place for residents and visitors. New structures in the downtown area should fit in with the existing architecture. 3.2 Encourage strong community pride Public events and art, vibrant open spaces, City marketing efforts, conservation of natural resources, and preservation of "small-town" character should focus on developing strong community pride. 3.3 Invest in a high-quality education Support creation of opportunities within public and private entities to provide youth with professional experiences to gain tools and resources. Continue to partner with the School District to provide these tools. 0 Goal 4: Retain and attract residents Strategies 4.1 Explore extending the reach of public transportation Public transportation should offer mobility to all major parts of the city and be accessible to all residents and visitors. 4.2 Accommodate a variety of housing types Accommodate housing for all ages, including a variety of housing types, including single-family, multi -family and mixed- use developments. 4.3 Recruit technology businesses Seek opportunities to recruit technology businesses to create new employment and attract outside professionals. 74 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ..�. Goal 5: Strengthen the downtown as a center for historical and cultural history Strategies 5.1 Support new and existing businesses in the downtown and urban areas that provide dining, retail, arts and entertainment. 5.2 Create new educational, cultural, and recreational activities and spaces downtown. 5.3 Maintain and enhance existing public spaces while creating new public spaces for social interaction in the urban and suburban areas. 5.4 Work with the St. Joseph Historical Society to create a list for designating buildings on local, state, or national registers in the downtown and urban areas. 5.5 Provide economic incentives to encourage restoration of historically significant buildings downtown. 0 Goal 6: Continue to host and sponsor local arts and cultural activities Strategies 6.1 Incorporate public art into the design of public spaces and infrastructure. 6.2 Explore regulations to implement a "percent for arts" requirements in community projects. 6.3 Create a community -wide project to create a logo for use in public activities. 6.4 Create opportunities, in collaboration with the College of St. Benedict, All Saints Academy, Kennedy School and other schools,forthe publicto contributeto public artand landscaping within the City. 6.5 Solicit input from local developers when building or renovating public buildings. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 75 Community Facilities and Utilities Overview Community facilities Community facilities, like government offices, public schools, community centers, or other locations that are open to the public at little or no cost, are public assets. Community facilities and services are important because they provide sense of place for residents, businesses, and visitors. InSt.Joseph, communityfacilitiesare typically located downtown or near downtown, or integrated into residential areas. These facilities support pedestrian -friendly neighborhoods. As the community continues to grow, some of these facilities, like Kennedy Community School, have moved to the edge of the city. Locating buildings to the edge of the town requires that residents travel more to use the services. Community gathering locations serve the community best when they are integrated into residential areas. Utilities and infrastructure Community -owned utilities and infrastructure, like the city's water and sewer systems, area key requirementfora functioning city. A strategic plan to manage sewer and water resources ensures St. Joseph meets its current and future needs without compromising its natural environment. Achieving a sustainable development pattern will require sanitary sewer, storm sewer and public water supply to be well-managed. St. Joseph completed a Comprehensive Sanitary Sewer System Plan in 2009, and a Stormwater Management Plan in 2004. These documents address the technical aspects of each system and will continue to be updated on a regular basis to accommodate future development and growth. This chapter of the Comprehensive Plan provides an inventory of the existing infrastructure and identifies needed infrastructure improvements to accommodate projected growth for 2040. The City of St. Joseph has adopted a Wellhead Protection Plan. The purpose of the Wellhead Protection Plan is to ensure the current and future safety of the city's drinking water supply. 76 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Approach for Community Facilities and Utilities A plan for the expansion of community facilities and utilities should take into account the needs of a growing population. This chapter establishes key goals and strategies to create timely and sustainable extensions of existing water and sewer systems. In the event that there is a conflict between the Comprehensive Plan and technical infrastructure plans, the more specific document will guide. Key Findings This section explains the current state of community facilities in St. Joseph, and looks at potential challenges these facilities face in the coming decades. City Government The City of St. Joseph is comprised of Administration, Finance, Community Development, Building, Public Works, Police, and Fire services. In 2017, all of the city departments with the exception of the Fire Department relocated to the newly constructed St. Joseph Government Center, which also includes a multi-purpose room that offers space for training with the potential for use by community organizations. The facility will meet the needs of all of the departments for many years to come. The need for additional police officers will continually need to be evaluated as the population increases. The Fire Department serves St. Joseph, St. Joseph Township and the southern portion of St. Wendel and operates out of one fire station thatwas built in 1997.The Department is a member of the Central Minnesota Mutual Aid Association and has an Insurance Service Office (ISO) rating of five. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 77 IMF Education St. Joseph is located within St. Cloud Area School District 742. Kennedy Community School located in St. Joseph is home to more than 750 students in Grades Pre -K-8. All Saints Academy, a Catholic School for Pre -K through Grade 6 is also located in St. Joseph. St. Joseph high school students are served by several public and private schools in St. Cloud and in the surrounding communities. St. Cloud Area School District performs well when compared to others in the state, but does not perform as well as neighboring school districts. Residents who participated in engagement noted that the lack of a high school in the community, puts St. Joseph at a disadvantage in attracting new families and residents. The College of St. Benedict is located in the Central Business Districtwhile SaintJohn's University is located two miles west in Collegeville.Together, they offer many services and amenitiesto area residents - for example,offering access to Clemens Library because a public library is not currently provided in the city. Community Center The City of St. Joseph purchased land and the building known as Colt's Academy in 2015 where the St. Joseph Government Center is today and where a future community center is planned. St. Joseph residents have wanted a community center for some time now. A steering committee has been guiding the project and the St. Joseph City Council approved funding for up to $6 million. The estimated cost of the project is over $12 million; private donations will cover about half of the project costs. Up to 40,000 square feet could be added to the former Colt's Academy School. Planned amenities include gym space, a walking track, climbing wall, a kid's zone, and community rooms. Public Water Supply and Distribution System The existing water supply and distribution system was placed into service in the 1920s as an extension of the system serving St. Benedict's Monastery. This system has historically met St. Joseph's water demands. Repairs and updates are performed as required to maintain the system. Water Supply St. Joseph's drinking water comes from six local wells and is processed at the City's two water treatment plants, which will meet future demand until 2040. There is currently one water 78 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN tower that has a storage capacity of 500,000 gallons. The city plans to build a second 750,000 gallon water tower in the near future to meet growing water storage demands. The City is reviewing the relocation of water crossings at CSAH 75 to First Street for ease of access. The water lines currently cross at College Avenue which is a busy intersection. This could be included in a future street improvement project. Wastewater Treatment St. Joseph, along with the Cities of St. Cloud, St. Augusta, Sartell, Sauk Rapids and Waite Park are serviced by the St. Cloud Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF). St. Joseph, along with the surrounding cities will continue to monitor maintenance and expansion needs. Summary of Proposed Facilities The city has implemented a Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). Major capital expenses relating to the drinking water system included in the CIP are: • Asecond water tower is planned for 2021 to accommodate anticipated future demand. Municipal Storm Sewer System Existing Storm Sewer System The City of St. Joseph and its residents are committed to preserving natural resources. Policies contained within the Comprehensive Plan and the existence of a surface water management plan and stormwater utilities are evidence of this commitment. Surface water management review occurs in conjunction with review of plat or site plans. This review is required to meet National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) standards enforced by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. St. Joseph's stormwater facilities include a combination of storm sewertrunk lines, pipes, channels, manholes, overland drainage ways, catch basins and ponds. Storm water pipes are replaced as needed and in coordination with other street and utility projects. The City and contractors maintain the stormwater ponds and associated inlets and outlets. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 79 Future Storm Sewer System The City has implemented a Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). Major capital expenses relating to the storm sewer system are included in the CIP. Community Facilities and Utilities Goals The Comprehensive Plan's goals for community facilities and buildings, and sewer and water resources in St. Joseph were developed through public input, and consideration of current and future trends: Goal 1: Provide facilities that support the community's values and needs Strategies 1.1 The City's Capital Improvement Plan should include funding for renovation of community facility buildings and construction of new buildings in the urban areas. 1.2 The City should support the continued presence and expansion of school facilities within downtown and urban areas. 1.3 Construct community facilities within the downtown area, when appropriate. 1.4 The City should update the City website with information regarding community facility redesigns and uses. 1.5 The City will continue to work with the public and private schools within the communityto adequately plan for community growth, schools facilities, community education, and shared facility issues. Goal 2: For construction of new community facilities, ensure that the facility has a positive impact on nearby neighborhoods Strategies 2.1 Renovation and new construction of community facilities should match the character of the existing neighborhood. 2.2 Construction and renovation of community facilities should be environmentally responsible and energy efficient. 80 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN f Goal 3: Provide potable water, sanitary waste collection, and surface water management to existing and future development in a cost-efficient and environmentally - responsible manner Strategies 3.1 Provide a consistently high level of service to existing and future areas. 3.2 Create and maintain an infrastructure replacement program as detailed in the Capital Improvement Plan. 3.3 For expansion of public services, new developments should be located in areas adjacent to existing development within the city limits, primarily downtown and in urban and suburban areas. 3.4 Prioritize infill and redevelopmentof existing urbanized areas to maximize use of the existing water and sewer infrastructure systems. 3.5 Provide a full range of public services to subdivisions at the time of development. This includes storm sewer, sanitary sewer, and public water. 3.6 Continue to implement and update, where necessary, the city's Wellhead Protection program. 3.7 Carefully review and limit development in areas that require private sewer and water systems, or high levels or public water and sewer services. 3.8 Undertake a sewer capacity study for the Wastewater Treatment Plant sometime in 2020. 3.9 Periodically review agreements with sewer systems partners for any needed updating. 3.10 Monitor and maintain all utility systems to ensure safe, functioning, and high quality facilities and services. 3.11 Update street, water, storm sewer and sanitary sewer plans as needed. 3.12 Update the water distribution study and water model. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 81 Goal 4: Manage water resources to ensure their continued availability to existing and future communities Strategies 4.1 Require stormwater management and erosion plans as described in the 2004 Stormwater Management Plan for projects that may have an impact on local surface water. 4.2 Work with counties, townships, citizens, upstream landowners, and watershed organizations to reduce pollution upstream to match limits used within the city. 4.3 In new developments, infill and redevelopment projects, and expansion projects, encourage creative stormwater management strategies to reduce surface runoff and implement low impact development techniques. 4.4 Continually evaluate utility fees, such as stormwater, trunk, pond, and access fees. 4.5 Review stormwater standards and update as necessary in compliance with MPCA. f Goal 5: Heighten community awareness of sustainable water use through education Strategies 5.1 Provide educational programs for residents and businesses that highlightthe use of water conservation practices (e.g. water - saving faucets, outdoor water -use restrictions, and xeriscaping). 5.2 Develop a community outreach program for all ages that meets requirements from the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System. 82 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN L)SIpir CITY OFT. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 183 Parks and Recreation Overview Recreational opportunities are abundant within the city. St. Joseph's nine parks offer a full range of amenities including rental pavilions, disc golf, baseball, bicycle trails, and pond hockey. Public and private schools supplement the recreational spaces within the city, and allow the public to use their recreational facilities. Included in these institutions are the College of St. Benedict's and St.John's Universityand the Kennedy Community School. This chapter of the Comprehensive Plan is based on the goals, findings, and objectives of the St. Joseph Master Park and Trail Plan as well as feedback obtained through public engagement. Key Findings St. Joseph has a diverse array of public recreational facilities with its nine city parks and trail system. The City's Public Works Department maintains the city parks, which offer both active and passive amenities, such as sports fields, courts, a disk golf course, rental pavilions, a sledding hill, and trails. All of these assets taken together offer a rich palette of recreation options for residents and visitors throughout all four seasons. St. Joseph Master Park Plan This plan was adopted in 2008 and outlines 10 goals for the future of the city's parks. These goals are oriented towards the continued preservation and promotion of St. Joseph's natural features for the enjoyment of residents and visitors alike. 84 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Stearns County Parks, Open Space, and Recreation Plan This plan, adopted in 2008, is intended to be used in supporting the creation and maintenance of Stearns County trail system for a variety of uses. The plan identifies current assets, including parks, city services in the area, access points, and infrastructure. St. Joseph is integral to the plan because it is the head of the Lake Wobegon Trail, and it administers trails and parks within its boundaries. The trails plan includes St. Joseph in its recommendations regarding Lake Wobegon Trail and the coordination of trail maintenance services among city, county, state, and federal government. Parks and Recreation Goals The Comprehensive Plan's goals for parks, trails, and recreation in St. Joseph were developed through public input and consideration of current and future trends: Goal 1: Implement a comprehensive and effective park system plan Strategies 1.1 Periodically review and update the 2008 St. Joseph Master Park Plan to ensure adequate parks, facilities, open spaces, and trails are provided for the community. 1.2 Use the 2008 St. Joseph Master Park Plan to guide implementation of any proposed projects. 0 Goal 2: Provide parks and recreation areas to residents for recreational use, protection of the existing natural assets Strategies 2.1 Enhance quality of life for current and future generations by providing adequate parkland and natural areas in urban and suburban areas to fulfill future needs. 2.2 Use the existing and future park and natural areas to shape future land use and development decisions. What we heard THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 85 0 Goal 3: Create and maintain an interconnected trail and sidewalk system for recreation and transportation that ties parks and open space together Strategies 3.1 Develop a pedestrian and bicycle plan that summarizes existing walk / bike issues and offers strategic guidance and solutions for improving user safety, comfort, convenience and connectivity and growing use of walking and biking for everyday travel in the city. 3.2 Provide a trail and sidewalk system that emphasizes a connection with the natural environment while also providing connection to urban and suburban areas in the city. 3.3 Tie the various parks into the interconnected trail system effectively and I inkthe trail system to those of adjacent townships and any regional park and trail systems. 3.4 Protect trails from future vehicular traffic and development. Goal 4: Provide for the conservation and preservation of natural resources in the City Strategies 4.1 Preserve natural resources as valuable open space and an important aspect of the city. 4.2 Ensure that natural environments and ecological systems are protected and well-managed within the city. 86 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Goal 5: Establish a plan to communicate and inform residents about issues pertaining to the parks system in St. Joseph. Provide residents with activities and programs throughout the City Strategies 5.1 Promote active interaction between the City and its residents to ensure recreational programming and appropriate facility development. 5.2 Promote ongoing volunteer opportunities through athletic, youth and civic organizations to assist in maintenance and programming in city parks. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 87 Sustainability and Resiliency Overview "Sustainability" refers to the ability of environments, systems and processes to last or endure overtime. A sustainable activity does not consume more than it replenishes, and can therefore continue over time at a more or less constant pace. "Resiliency" refers to the capacity of an existing system to recover quickly from abrupt changes or difficulties. A resilient system can accommodate changing conditions without significant degradation of its ability to fulfill its tasks. For this plan, sustainability considerations begin in relation to St. Joseph's natural environment and its implications for how land use decisions are made and how the city approaches preservation and sustainability. 88 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Key Findings St. Joseph's character is reflective of its environmental and natural assets. This chapter of the plan identifies those features and establishes goals and strategies for the protection, strength, and connection of these resources. The City has completed two complementary documents, the 2008 Master Park Plan and the 2004 Stormwater Management Plan, that also provide direction for the future of natural resources within St. Joseph. Environmentally Significant Areas The general topography, soil structure, and existing water structures create a defining natural environment for the community. Any area that is important for the long-term biological diversity of the city should be evaluated to determine howto best protect, strengthen, and connect itto the community. Topography The terrain of St. Joseph is relatively flat with hills interspersed throughout the city. The city fluctuates from about 1050 feet to 1 150 feet above sea level with the lowest points along the Watab River and the wetlands located to the east of the city I imits. There are areas with soil slopes greater than 15% located just outside of the city limits. Generally, because of the flat environment, the city is conducive to an array of development opportunities. Soils Because St. Joseph was historically an agriculturally dependent area, soil has been an important resource in its development. The availability of suitable soils has provided a foundation for a successful and sustained agriculture industry. Water Resources Groundwater The United States Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has classified St. Joseph's water under Area Four, which means there is a 'good' availability of groundwater. Groundwater resources within St. Joseph and parts of Stearns County have been listed as 'highly susceptible' to contaminants according to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. The DNR does not support the continued pumping of water from Area Four as it may deplete the area's lakes, wetlands, streams and other aquatic amenities. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 89 \L Watersheds St. Joseph lies between two watersheds: the Sauk River Watershed and the Mississippi River Watershed. The Sauk River watershed is located to the south and southeast of St. Joseph and drains into the Sauk River. The Mississippi River Watershed is located to the north and northwest of the city and drains into the Watab River. More details on the drainage into these watersheds are provided in the 2004 Stormwater Management Plan. This information is useful in determining how to protect and improve surface water quality for the future of St. Joseph. Rivers, Lakes, and Streams There are two bodies of water located within St. Joseph: the Watab River and the Sauk River. Kraemer Lake is located within St. Joseph Township to the west of the city limits and Rassier Lake is located to the north of the city within St. Wendel Township. A public water wetland (Lake Sarah) is located to the south of CSAH 2 near Interstate 94. Lands along and near the Watab and Sauk Rivers are within the 100- and 500 -year floodplain and are subject to floodplain regulations. Additional Environmental Issues Hazardous Waste The City has a number of programs to encourage the reduction of waste materials like curbside pickup of trash and recycling. The City also maintains a compost area for residents to deposit lawn and garden waste. There is a location for handling hazardous waste materials in Waite Park. Air Pollution St. Joseph values the air quality in and around the city. Stearns County air quality has been monitored since 2001 with the St. Cloud station receiving a passing grade. Currently, the City does not have regulations banning the burning of wood in household fireplaces or outdoor boilers. The county has adopted the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency's regulations and standards to measure air quality. 90 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Noise and Light Pollution Residents of St. Joseph have expressed an interest in maintaining a "small town" feeling. Loud noises and excessively bright lights detract from this desired character. Updated lighting can also be energy and cost efficient. Noise ordinances can ensure that noise is not distracting to nearby residences. Surface Water Management Plan St. Joseph features many types of natural resources including several wetlands, several forest massings, and the south fork of the Watab River. The city and its residents are committed to preserving these natural resources as evidenced by the city's recent review of stormwater drainage and education of the public on issues around surface water quality. The City of St. Joseph developed a Stormwater Management Plan in 2004. The purpose of the Stormwater Management Plan is to guide the development and expansion of the City's drainage system in a cost-effective manner that also preserves natural resources. The goals of the Stormwater Management Plan are to: • Control flooding and minimize related public capital and maintenance expenditure necessary to control excessive volumes and rates of runoff, • Achieve water quality goals in St. Joseph waters and wetlands consistent with intended use and classification, • Minimize soil erosion control through enforcement and education, • Maintain the amount of wetland acreage and increase the wetland values within St. Joseph, • Increase public participation and knowledge in management of the city's water resources, • Preserve the function of water resource facilities through routine inspection and regular maintenance activities, • Manage water recreation opportunities and improve fish and wildlife habitat, Prevent contamination of the aquifers and promote groundwater recharge, and Ensure compliance with ordinances, standards, criteria, and policies with other governmental units that have regulatory authority within the city boundaries. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 91 Sustainability and Resiliency Goals The Comprehensive Plan's goals for sustainability in St. Joseph were developed through public input, and consideration of current and future trends. Goal 1: Develop a community -wide sustainability plan Strategies 1.1 Promote energy and resource conservation through community programming. 1.2 Provide incentives for energy efficient design, construction and operation. 1.3 Incorporate conservation of natural resources in the design and construction of new developments in the downtown and urban areas. 1.4 New developments will conserve water resources and manage stormwater runoff, especially in urban hard cover areas. Goal 2: Protect and improve areas that contribute to the biodiversity of St. Joseph Strategies 2.1 Maintain standards for developments on steep slopes to control for erosion and minimize the removal of natural vegetation in rural areas. 2.2 Preserve rural natural open spaces as defined in the 2008 Park Master Plan to provide migration opportunities for wildlife and provide recreation opportunities for the community. 2.3 Prioritize the planting of native vegetation along rivers, wetlands and within public open spaces in rural areas. 2.4 Educate residents on the benefits of using native species in residential landscaping. 92 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN r Goal 3: Protect and Improve water quality Strategies 3.1 As the City reviews developments for stormwater management, ensure that filtration and detention structures are located away from shallow bedrock to decrease likelihood of groundwater contamination. 3.2 Protect the quality of groundwater to minimize the contamination of the drinking water supply. 3.3 The City will consult with agencies and organizations to protect and improve the quality of surface water including the Watab River and Sauk River. 3.4 Maintain and enforce the wetland buffer and setback ordinance Goal 4: Conserve energy use in public and private sector development Strategies 4.1 Encourage the use of technology and techniques that promote innovative methods to conserve energy. 4.2 Strive to approve developments that meet LEED standards. 4.3 Development standards should allow for accommodating solar technologies. Goal 5: Encourage the reduction of solid waste Strategies 5.1 Create programs to reduce total amount of solid waste created in the City and encourage the use of recyclable, reusable, and biodegradable materials. 5.2 The City will work with the contracted waste management haulers to provide pricing that encourages waste reduction. 5.3 The City will work with agencies and financial institutions to provide incentives for construction projects that reuse building materials. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 93 Goal 6: Minimize the negative effect of hazardous materials on the environment Strategies 6.1 The City will review its use of hazardous materials and work to find safer substitutes. 6.2 Educate St. Joseph residents and business owners on the safe disposal of hazardous materials. 6.3 Reduce the use of synthetic chemicals and fertilizers on City - owned properties. (D Goal 7: Work towards improving air quality within the City Strategies 7.1 The City will evaluate current ordinances affecting air quality and suggest improvements for outdated policies. 7.2 Implement program of education and regulation regarding the use of wood -burning fireplaces, stoves, and outdoor boilers to protect residents from air pollutants and particulate matter. 7.3 Educate business owners and residents on alternatives to gas -powered lawn mowers. 0 Goal 8: Minimize noise pollution in the community Strategies 8.1 The City will review existing noise ordinances and see if updates are necessary. 8.2 Enforce noise ordinances throughout the city. 94 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 0 Goal 9: Increase the density of the city's urban forest Strategies 9.1 The City will create a management policy that protects or replaces significant trees on development projects and Right of Way or easements. Goal 10: Research local conditions and current issues related to climate change Strategies 10.1 Develop ordinances to reduce urban heat islands in urban areas. 10.2 Promote the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in residential, commercial, and industrial uses and encourage conservation efforts. Goal 11: Preserve St. Joseph's rural heritage Strategies 11.1 Support urban and downtown farm -to -table programming like the community farmer's marketto promote the health of the local agricultural economy. 11.2 Ensure that all new development is compatible with the natural and built environment. 11.3 Preserve the scenic quality of the rural landscape by defining the edge of the community and maintaining the rural character of roadways on the edges of the community. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 95 Community Engagement, Participation and Communication Overview St. Joseph is a welcoming community, and understands that more community voices participating in conversations and decisions will lead to better results for all. The City of St. Joseph values community input and is committed to engaging residents to increase communication and allow for the exchange of ideas and opinions. Participation by all community members benefits the entire community, supporting efforts in providing quality programs, facilities and services. The focus of the goals and strategies is to further engage the public, be proactive, responsive, transparent and enhance quality of life. The City of St. Joseph will work collaboratively with community partners, such as public and private schools, organizations, and businesses to provide support to enhance engagement and communication and to develop more inclusive outreach processes to seek participation by a broader range of residents. 96 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Goals for Community Engagement, Participation and Communication 10 Goal 1: Create a proactive, responsive and accessible government Strategies 1.1 Investintechnologyto improve communication, and to provide efficient and responsive services and high quality customer service. Examples include the ability to submit applications and permit requests online, adding an online property search tool/interactive map to the city website, providing a 'shop local" web resource, or developing an events calendar. 1.2 Maintain the City's Emergency Operations Plan 1.3 Ensure city documents and online information is available and current for the public. Examples could include promoting signing up for email updates, marketing of available properties and buildings online, and maintaining FAQs and informational handouts for permit and building information. 1.4 Proactively build and maintain trust between city government/police and the community. Examples could include SALT (Seniors And Law Enforcement Together), and hosting a youth bike rodeo or bike to school day event. 1.5 Include more information on city happenings (community events, city council activities, etc.) as part of regular communications with residents. Publicize through various platforms. Consider creating and maintaining an online event calendar and/or partner with others, such as the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce. Goal 2: Create opportunities for equitable civic participation Strategies 2.1 Actively strengthen engagement through neighborhoods, neighborhood associations, and city advisory committees and boards to facilitate meaningful public input on city policies, programs and procedures. 2.2 Communicate and partner with the local business community, local schools, faith based organizations, and various student and community organizations to increase public outreach and participation in the community. 2.3 Consider the use of social media to share information and encourage civic participation. 2.4 Support and encourage the continuation and expansion of events that bring community together. 2.5 Communicate and seek public input through various forms (social media, paper, web, video, pop up event, open house). Goal 3: Encourage youth involvement Strategies 3.1 Collaboratewith local schools and organizations on opportunities to involve youth, including volunteering and mentorship opportunities. 3.2 Provide city internship opportunities that result in meaningful participation in city government. 3.3 Seek youth participation on steering/advisory committees and city boards. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 97 Implementation Tasks and Timeline Overview The St. Joseph Comprehensive Plan Update engaged hundreds of residents, businesses, and visitors in an extensive conversation about the future of the community. Once the Plan is complete and finalized, the community will pivot its efforts towards implementation. This chapter of the Comprehensive Plan provides direction for accountability, monitoring, regulation and procedure development, and community involvement. This chapter recommends guidance to implement the St. Joseph Comprehensive Plan. Five goals and fifteen strategies will support implementation. The chapter is divided into the following sections: • How to use this plan Summary of the basic steps that should be used to affect decision making in St. Joseph. • Actions Outline of goals and actions that will direct the implementation of the Plan. • Implementation Matrix Chart that organizes the Comprehensive Plan into strategies. 98 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN How to use this Plan The Comprehensive Plan is meant to be used on a daily basis as decisions are made regarding land use, development/ redevelopment, land intensification, capital improvements, and other situations affecting the community. The following is a brief summary about how the Plan should be used. 1. Budgets and Work Programs City departments and administrators should be familiar with the Plan when preparing work programs and budgets. Several of the strategies can be implemented in this way. 2. Development Approvals Development approval of proposals, such as rezoning and subdivision plats, are a central means of implementing the Comprehensive Plan 3. Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) The Capital Improvement Plan should align with the goals of the Comprehensive Plan land use policies and infrastructure recommendations. 4. Economic Incentives Economic Incentives with other Plans should be reviewed to ensure that they are consistent with the land use recommendations. 5. Private Development Decisions Property owners should have an understanding of the Comprehensive Plan when submitting proposals to the City. Government decision -makers will be using this document to guide their deliberations. 6. Future Interpretation In the event that a major item of the Plan is not clear, the Planning Commission will provide a written interpretation of the item. The Commission can call upon outside experts for their advice. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 99 Implementation Tasks and Timeline Goals Outlined are five major goals to support the implementation of the Comprehensive Plan. 0 Goal 1: Engage a diverse population of residents, business owners, and visitors as part of the implementation process Strategies 1.1 Establish a "Plan Implementation Committee" made up of local residents, businesses, employees, advocates and young people and seniors to advise the city on implementation priorities and phasing. 1.2 Establish an ongoing communication program to provide the public information about the Plan. The public should be familiar with ongoing opportunities to implement the Plan and understand their role in the process. The City's website can be a primary source of information. 1.3 Ensure that copies of the final Comprehensive Plan are available online and at public libraries. The purpose is to make the plan available to all residents and employees. Having these documents easily accessible will ensure that developers and property owners can familiarize themselves with the plan elements and recommendations, and tailor their proposals to better fit the community's desires. Goal 2: Consistently monitor and evaluate the implementation process Strategies 2.1 Prepare annual reports that summarize the actions completed. City officials should be the ones to prepare the report and highlight key strategies completed over the course of the year. Reports can also identify areas of delay that need to be addressed. Any potential changes or additions to the Plan can also be identified in this report. 2.2 Provide a summary of the annual report to the general public. Information regarding the status of plan elements will be summarized and available for the public on the City's website. 2.3: Create press releases and social media blasts that highlight loo I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN and acknowledge significant accomplishments relative to the Plan and its strategies. Goal 3: Provide resources that will help implement the Plan Strategies 3.1 Update the Capital Improvement Plan to ensure that it matches the recommendations outlined in the Comprehensive Plan. 3.2 Prepare departmental budgets and programs with the understanding of the goals and strategies of the Comprehensive Plan. 3.3 Secure funds for the strategies listed as high-priority. Funding can come from, but does not have to be limited to, the City, external governmental sources, taxes, or private sector investment. This strategy should take place alongside annual budget cycles and should maximize non -municipal resources. Goal 4: Require future decisions in the community regarding development, capita improvements, and budgeting to coincide with the Comprehensive Plan Strategies 4.1 Require approvals of zoning requests to follow the policies in the Comprehensive Plan. 4.2 Require staff reports to mention the Plan in all aspects pertaining to policy, programs, and budgets. 4.3 Establish a line of communication between the Planning Commission and the City Council regarding the Comprehensive Plan. Communication must be clear and frequent. Ensuring that interpretation of the plan is consistentwill be critical to the Plan's implementation. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1101 0 Goal 5: Update the Plan if needed Strategies 5.1 The Planning Commission will design the process to update the Comprehensive Plan. They will work with City staff to gather and allocate the necessary resources. 5.2: Prepare an updated Comprehensive Plan. The Planning Commission will involve the public to update the Plan when necessary. The public engagement process should be similar to that of this plan and the update process should be completed in less than 18 months. Implementation Matrix The following pages in this section list the goals and strategies from the Comprehensive Plan. A person or organization is assigned to each strategy to ensure its implementation. Priority for each strategy is also identified. 102 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ®Am 006LA`® �mImplementation Matrix: Land Use Strategy Number Strategy Ownership Priority Goal 1: Preserve and enhance St. Joseph's identity and small town character. Land Use 1.1 Develop a new set of urban design guidelines providing guidance for form and Planning High character in each of the city's transect zones and that reflect the city's character. Department Land Use 1.2 Work to retain attractive, historic buildings within the downtown community. Historical Society High Land Use 1.3 Create regulations that blend new developments into the existing character of the City Council High streetscape. Ensure community gateways are welcoming and attractive. Work to improve Land Use 1.4 attractiveness of primary gateways and corridors, especially CSAH 75 and Planning High Minnesota Street. Gateway elements could include landscaping, lighting, signage, Department street furniture, public art and innovative streetscape improvements. Create regulations that support pedestrian -oriented development and spaces to Land Use 1.5 create a well-designed community that is welcoming, healthy and safe. The focus City Council High of these efforts should be directed in the downtown and urban areas. Land Use 1.6 Monitor resident and business opinions on land use balance and prepare Economic Development Medium ordinances and policies that reflect this balance. Authority Promote redevelopment and infill in downtown and urban development where Planning Land Use 1.7 feasible to leverage infrastructure investment and strengthen community vitality Commission High and cohesion. Land Use 1.8 Encourage art and wayfinding within the community. Partner with local artists to City Council Medium showcase art. Goal 2: Support the economic vitality of St. Joseph's downtown. Land Use 2.1 Retain and attract an appropriate mix of retail/service businesses and housing in Economic Development High the Downtown. Authority Land Use 2.2 Encourage innovative housing opportunities in the Downtown. Community Development Medium _and Use 2.3 Evaluate and adopt design guidelines to assure a high quality and variety in Community High building design, an active connected streetscape, and walkable downtown. Development i and Use 2.4 Continue to enhance and maintain downtown. Consider implementation of a Planning High downtown improvement district. Department Land Use 2.5 Ensure all new pedestrian, bicycle and vehicular networks are connected to the City Council High downtown. Land Use 2.6 Create and maintain relationships with downtown businesses to understand ways to Economic Development Low maximize growth. Authority Goal 3: Promote sustainable development. Support redevelopment and infill development throughout the city but especially Economic Land Use 3. 1 in the downtown area and along the CSAH 75 corridor. Provide incentives to Development High encourage redevelopment and infill development. Authority Support orderly growth. Provide for an orderly and efficient transition from rural to Planning Land Use 3.2 urban land uses. Plan for growth areas that reflect city priorities for development Department Medium staging and contiguous, planned extension of public infrastructure. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1103 Implementation Matrix: Land Use Strategy Number Strategy Ownership Priority Encourage innovative land use patterns such as clustering of development in Planning Land Use 3.3 suburban and rural areas that contain sensitive or significant natural or cultural Department Medium resources or where it would benefit the community. Land Use 3.4 Protect and enhance natural resources, such as rivers, lakes, wetlands, Parks High woodlands and wildlife habitat as growth occurs in suburban and rural areas. Department Land Use 3.5 Evaluate and adopt standards on solar and wind energy. City Council Medium Goal 4: Create neighborhoods that are well designed to attract new residents. Create a community that is connected, walkable, and safely accessible through Land Use 4.1 sidewalks, trails and streets. Develop connections between neighborhoods, Community High parks, schools, businesses and community facilities. These efforts should be Development focused on downtown, urban, and suburban areas. Land Use 4.2 Expand the Lake Wobegon Trail to connect to existing sidewalk infrastructure Public Works Medium and neighborhoods. Land Use 4.3 Streamline the review process for project that provide environmental and Planning Medium aesthetic development benefits. Commission Create regulations that yield commercial and office structures that reflect St. Economic Land Use 4.4 Joseph's character (and minimize franchise/corporate structures) in urban and Development Medium downtown areas. Authority Goal 5: Promote efficient land development and management of growth. Land Use 5.1 Work with state, regional and local entities to manage growth and enhance the Planning High region Department Support land use and zoning decisions, policies, ordinances and improvements that are based on the Smart Growth Principles. Smart growth principles promote Planning Land Use 5.2 efficient and sustainable development, including accessible, multimodal Department High transportation system connecting housing, jobs, shopping and services, schools, and recreation facilities while protecting the natural environment. Land Use 5.3 Collaborate with St. Joseph Township to help ensure land use decisions in areas Planning High likely to become urban in the future don't hinder future provision of services. Department Land Use 5.4 Continue to plan for necessary infrastructure improvements through a capital Planning High improvement plan. Department Land Use 5.5 Collaborate with Stearns County and St. Joseph Township to minimize conflicts Planning Medium between agriculture and non-farm uses through local ordinances. Department Consider completing a natural resources inventory (NRI) to identify the location, quantity and quality of natural resources within the City and annexation area. Planning Land Use 5.6 Such information can be used to prioritize areas for protection and preservation Department Medium as urban development occurs. Upon completion of an NRI, consider the creation of an environmentally sensitive areas ordinance. 104 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1105 Strategy Strategy Ownership Priority Number Goal 1: Create a diversity of housing options within the city. Housing 1.1 Establish standards for new housing developments that create a diversity of Community Medium housing styles appropriate for St. Joseph. Development Revise zoning and subdivision ordinances to encourage a wider range of housing Planning Housing 1.2 types, including mixed-use, accessory dwelling units, modular homes and Commission Medium manufactured home parks. Housing 1.3 Develop urban design guidelines for how mixed-use housing in downtown and Planning High urban areas incorporates public spaces and retail and service businesses. Department Housing 1.4 As necessary, conduct a city-wide housing surveyto identify housing types, Planning Medium values, and vacancy rates to help determine future housing development. Department Housing 1.`, Establish standards for compact residential development and infill in the [downtown Planning Medium and urban areas. Commission Goal 2: Preserve the character of existing neighborhoods that give St. Joseph a sense of place. Establish standards for replacement of homes so that new developments match Community Housing 2." the character of the existing neighborhood, and establish regulations for the Development Medium demolition or moving of housing units. Housing 2.2 Encourage rehabilitation of deteriorating homes and the reuse of existing Community High buildings to preserve neighborhood values and standards. Development Establish a board or committee to review infill housing development Housing 2.3 opportunities and determine if they are compatible with the design of City Council Medium neighborhoods. Housing 2.4 Encourage preservation of historically -significant buildings in the downtown and Planning Medium urban areas, neighborhoods, and cultural events. Department Goal 3: Assist in the planning and construction of affordable housing options. Encourage public and private partnerships to apply for local, state, and federal funding to cover the gap between affordable housing revenue and costs. Economic Housing 3.1 Potential partners are Stearns County HRA, land trust organizations, non-profit Development High organizations and others who can help plan, finance and develop affordable Authority housing. Housing 3.2 Encourage renter and owner -occupied developments that offer a mix of housing Community High costs. Development Housing3.3 Ensure that housing developments are accessible to community resources such Community High g asjobs, retail districts, and walking, biking and transit networks. Development Housing 3.4 Work with local institutions and professionals to provide educational resources City Council Medium and publications for first-time home buyers. Encourage the maintenance and construction of pre -fabricated / manufactured Community Housing 3.5 homes to provide additional affordable housing options in urban, suburban and Development Medium rural areas. Housing 3.6 Allow for accessory dwelling units as residential housing, especially near the City Council Medium downtown and urban areas. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1105 106 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Strategy Number Strategy Ownership Priority Goal 4: Encourage existing and new housing developments to be well-maintained, environmentally friendly, and energy efficient. Housing 4.1 pstandards to ensure new ho sing developments y elopments are constructed to City Council Medium be eergy e en ie and environmentally Housing 4.2 Establish regulations that provide pedestrian and bicycle connections through Community High neighborhoods and connection to local businesses. Development Housing 4.3 Review the City's ordinance for homeowners to rehabilitate and maintain City Council Medium structures that are not conforming to environmental standards. Housing 4.4 Enforce ordinances that provide minimums in housing maintenance. Public Works High Housing 4.5 1 Provide informational resources to residents on ways to reduce energy and water Planning I Medium usage. Commission 106 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1107 I_Implementation I_ Strategy Strategy Ownership Priority Number Goal 1: Improve transportation framework. Transportation 1.1 Explore the extension of St. Cloud Metro Bus service to St. Joseph. Public Works High Transportation Collaborate with Stearns County and the St. Cloud Area Planning Organization Community 1.2 on roadway and pedestrian connection improvements in downtown, urban, Development High and suburban areas. Transportation Identify and review potential transportation safety deficiencies, such as crash Public Works High 1.3 data, traffic volumes and accessibility. Transportation 1.4 Implement traffic calming measures where appropriate to reduce speed. Public Works High Transportation Require the dedication of right-of-way consistent with the adopted right-of-way Public Works Medium 1.5 standards to ensure safe and high performing roadways. Transportation Limit direct access to major thoroughfares in order to maintain safe and Public Works Low 1.6 efficient roadway operations. Goal 2: Plan, develop and maintain a safe and accessible multi -modal transportation system. Transportation 2.1 Develop a pedestrian and bicycle plan for the city. Planning Department High Transportation New development and redevelopment proposals shall require connectivity of Planning High 2.2 streets and pedestrian facilities in all urban and suburban areas. Department Transportation Require sidewalks (or off-street trails or on -street bikeways where planned and Community 2.3 appropriate) on all new subdivisions an new streets and if feasible on road Development High reconstruction projects. Transportation Connect and maintain an interconnected pedestrian and bicycle system that Community 2'4 links residential, institutional, educational, commercial, employment, and Development Medium recreational destinations. Transportation Identify pedestrian and bicycle transportation gaps. Build sidewalk or Planning 2.5 trail segments where there is a missing connection in the trail/sidewalk Department High transportation system. 2.5 Use a Complete Streets methodology in the design of all streets (to Transportation decide where implementation is desirable and to prioritize and implement Planning Medium 2.6 improvements where feasible). Consider adopting a Complete Streets Department ordinance. Improve the safety of pedestrian and bicyclist crossing of CSAH 75. Review the Transportation CSAH 75 Pedestrian Crossing Study and identify if any further areas of study are Public Works High g 7 needed. Where feasible and as determined, implement the recommendations as identified within the study. Goal 3: Implement the Comprehensive Transportation Plan Transportation 3.1 Periodically review the Transportation Plan and update as needed. Planning Department High Transportation Implement the Transportation Plan and ensure development projects are 1 Public Works High 3.2 consistent with the Transportation Plan. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1107 Implementation Matrix: Economic Development AN Strategy Strategy Ownership Priority Number Goal 1: Retain, attract and grow business. Economic 1.1 Develop a "shop local" campaign. A strong local economy will attract new Economic Development High companies and businesses, and support the ongoing vitality of the city. Authority Support and enhance existing businesses. Seek opportunities to learn about and Economic Economic 1.2 solve barriers to retention of businesses like a Business Mentorship Program or Development Medium Business Retention Program. Authority Economic 1.3 Develop and distribute key informational resources, such as guidelines and best Economic Development Medium practices, to support decision-making of existing businesses. Authority Economic 1.4 Directory of locally -owned businesses, searchable by good or service provided - Economic Development High please see www.ppna.org/shop-powderhorn for an example. Authority Support redevelopment in downtown. Development in the downtown area should Community Economic 1.5 be consistent with the area's existing character, linkto existing pedestrian and Development High bicycle networks, and emphasize a pedestrian -oriented development. Support the redevelopment of CSAH 75 area. The development of CSAH 75 will Economic Economic 1.6 increase commerce and tourism, as well as efficient transportation across the Development High City. Authority Attract larger businesses. Create strategic plans to attract large businesses Economic Economic 1.7 that require a large employee base. New businesses should reflect the values, Development High visions, needs of the St. Joseph community. If possible, businesses should Authority consider brownfield sites to revitalize existing areas. Develop a pipeline of trained interns and potential new staff into existing and Economic Economic 1.8 new businesses. Partner with local educational institutions to connect students Development High and recent graduates with local employers, and support the staffing needs of Authority new and growing businesses. Supportthe development of business incubators for local start-ups Business incubator spaces provide small spaces that are affordable to start- Economic Economic 1.9 up businesses. Work with local developers and property owners to develop a Development business incubator in the walkable Downtown area of St. Joseph (attractive to Authority software or tech start-ups), as well as in the industrial areas of the city (attractive to manufacturing start-ups). Goal 2: Focus on competitiveness. Economic 2.1 Establish and maintain public and private partnerships. Public entities should Economic Development Low collaborate with private entities, when possible. Authority Economic 2.2 Provide business incentives. Comprehensive incentives should be present to City Council Medium create healthy growth for existing businesses and encourage new businesses. Review land use and zoning standards. Zoning standards should reflect current Planning Economic 2.3 needs of community while creating new opportunities for residential and Department High commercial growth. Utilize Technology. Advanced and updated technology should improve residents' Planning Economic 2.4 quality of life, provide additional resources for existing businesses, and attract new Commission Medium businesses and professionals. Economic 2.5 Seek grant opportunities. Public community-based projects should be partly Community Low funded by outside grants. Development 108 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1109 Strategy Strategy Ownership Priority Number Goal 3: Provide a high quality life. Preserve community character. Businesses should reflect the "small-town" Community Economic 3.1 character to create a sense of place for residents and visitors. New businesses in Development High downtown area should fit in with the existing architecture. Encourage strong community pride in urban and suburban areas. Public Economic 3.2 events and art, vibrant open spaces, City marketing efforts, conservation of "small-town" Planning High natural resources, and preservation of character should focus on Commission developing strong community pride. Invest in a high-quality education. Opportunities within public and private Economic 3.3 entities should be created to provide youth more professional experiences to Planning Medium gain tools and resources. The City should continue to partner with the School Department District to provide these tools. Goal 4: Retain and attract residents. Explore the extension of public transportation. Public transportation should Community Economic 4.1 create mobility to all major parts of the City and be accessible to all residents Development High and visitors. Accommodate a variety of housing types. Accommodate housing for all ages, Planning Economic 4.2 including a variety of housing types, including single-family, multi -family and Department High mixed-use developments. Economic 4.3 Recruit technology businesses. Seek opportunities to recruit technology Economic Development High businesses to create new employment and attract outside professionals. Authority Goal 5: Strengthen the downtown as a center for historical and cultural history. Economic 5.1 Support new and existing businesses in the downtown and urban areas that Economic Development High provide dining, retail, arts and entertainment. Authority Economic 5.2 Create new educational, cultural, and recreational activities and spaces Economic Development Low downtown. Authority Economic 5.3 Maintain and enhance existing public spaces while creating new public spaces for Planning Medium social interaction in the urban and suburban areas. Department Economic 5.4 Work with the St. Joseph Historical Society to create a list for designating Planning Medium buildings on local, state, or national registers in the downtown and urban areas. Commission Economic 5.5 Provide economic incentives and design flexibility to encourage restoration of Community Low historically significant buildings downtown. Development Goal 6: Continue to host and sponsor local arts and cultural activities. Economic 6.1 Incorporate public art into the design of public spaces and infrastructure. City Council Low Economic 6.2 Explore regulations to implement a "percent for arts" requirements in City Council Low community projects. Economic 6.3 Create a community wide project to create a seal used in a range of public Planning Medium activities. Commission Create opportunities, in collaboration with the College of St. Benedict, All Saints Economic 6.4 Academy, and Kennedy School students, for the public to contribute to public art Park Board High and landscaping within the City. Economic 6.5 Solicit input from local developers when building or renovating public buildings. Community Development High THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1109 Implementation Matrix: Community Facilities and Utilities Strategy Number Strategy Ownership Priority Goal 1: Provide facilities that support the community's values and needs. Utilities 1.1 The City's Capital Improvement Plan should include funding for renovation of City Council Medium community facility buildings and construction of new buildings in the urban areas. Utilities 1.2 The City should support the continued presence and expansion of school facilities City Council Medium within downtown and urban areas. Utilities 1.3 Construct community facilities within the downtown area, when appropriate. Planning Commission Low Utilities 1.4 The City should update the City website with information regarding community Administration Medium facility redesigns and uses. The City will continue to work with the public and private schools within Planning Utilities 1.5 the community to adequately plan for community growth, schools facilities, Department High community education, and shared facility issues. Goal 2: For construction of new community facilities, ensure that the facility has a positive impact on nearby neighborhoods. Utilities 2.1 Renovation and new construction of community facilities should match the Planning I High character of the existing neighborhood. Department Utilities 2.2 Construction and renovation of community facilities should be environmentally BuildingHigh responsible and energy efficient. Inspections Goal 3: Provide potable water, sanitary waste collection, and surface water management to existing and future development in a cost-efficient and environmentally-responsible manner. Utilities 3.1 Provide a consistently high level of service to existing and future areas. Public Works Medium Utilities 3.2 Create and maintain an infrastructure replacement program as detailed in the City Council Medium Capital Improvement Plan. For expansion of public services, new developments should be located in areas Planning Utilities 3.3 adjacent to existing development within the city limits, primarily downtown and in Department Medium urban and suburban areas. Utilities 3.4 Prioritize infill and redevelopment of existing urbanized areas to maximize use of Planning Medium the existing water and sewer infrastructure systems. Department Utilities 3.5 Provide a full range of public services to subdivisions at the time of development. Public Works High This includes storm sewer, sanitary sewer, and public water. ies 3.6 Continue to implement and update, where necessary, the city's Wellhead City Council High F Protection program. ies 3.7 Carefully review and limit development in areas that require private sewer and Planning Medium water systems, or high levels or public water and sewer services. Department Utilities 3.8 Undertake a sewer capacity study for the Wastewater Treatment Plant sometime in Public Works Low 2020. Utilities 3.9 Periodically review agreements with sewer systems partners for any needed Public Works Medium updating. Utilities 3.10 Monitor and maintain all utility systems to ensure safe, functioning, and high Public Works Medium quality facilities and services. Utilities 3.11 Update street, water, storm sewer and sanitary sewer plans as needed. Public Works Medium Utilities 3.12 Update the water distribution study and water model. Public Works Medium 110 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Implementation Matrix: Community Facilities and Utilities Strategy Number Strategy Ownership Priority Goal 4: Manage water resources to ensure their continued availability to existing and future communities. Require stormwater management and erosion plans as described in the 2004 Utilities 4.1 Stormwater Management Plan for projects that may have an impact on local surface water. Utilities 4.2 Work with counties, townships, citizens, upstream landowners, and watershed Public Works High organizations to reduce pollution upstream to match limits used within the city. In new developments, infill and redevelopment projects, and expansion projects, Utilities 4.3 encourage creative stormwater management strategies to reduce surface runoff Public Works High and implement low impact development techniques. Utilities 4.4 Continually evaluate utilityfees, such as stormwater, trunk, pond, and access fees. Public Works Medium Utilities 4.5 Review stormwater standards and update as necessary in compliance with MPCA. Public Works Medium Goal S: Heighten community awareness of sustainable water use through education. Provide educational programs for residents and businesses that highlight the Utilities 5.1 use of water conservation practices (e.g. water -saving faucets, outdoor water -use Public Works Medium restrictions, and xeriscaping). Utilities 5.2 Develop a community outreach program for all ages that meets requirements from Public Works Medium the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1111 Implementation Matrix: Parks and Recreation Strategy Strategy Ownership Priority Number Goal 1: Implement a comprehensive and effective park system plan. Periodically review and update the 2008 St. Joseph Master Park Plan to ensure Park Board Medium adequate parks, facilities, open spaces, and trails are provided for the community. Use the 2008 St. Joseph Master Park Plan to guide implementation of any Park Board High proposed projects. Goal 2: Provide parks and recreation areas to residents for recreational use, protection of the existing natural assets. Enhance the quality of life for current and future generations by providing Parks Parks 2.1 adequate parkland and natural areas in urban and suburban areas to fulfill future Department Medium needs. Parks 2.2 Use the existing and future park and natural areas to shape future development. Park Board Medium Goal 3: Create and maintain an interconnected trail and sidewalk system for recreation and transportation that ties parks and open space together. Develop a pedestrian and bicycle plan for the city. Planning Department High Provide a trail and sidewalk system that emphasizes a connection with the natural environment while also providing connection to urban and suburban areas in the Park Board Medium city. Tie the various parks into the interconnected trail system effectively and link the Park Board Low trail system to those of adjacent townships and any regional park and trail systems. Protect trails from future vehicular traffic and development. Parks Department Medium Goal 4: Provide for the conservation and preservation of natural resources in the City. Parks 4.1 Preserve natural resources as valuable open space and an important aspect of the Park Board High city. Parks 4.2 Ensure that natural environments and ecological systems are protected and well- Parks High managed within the city. Department Goal 5: Establish a plan to communicate and inform residents about issues pertaining to the parks system in St. Joseph. Provide residents with activities and programs throughout the City. Promote active interaction between the City and its residents to ensure recreational Parks Medium programming and appropriate facility development. Department Parks 5.2 Promote ongoing volunteer opportunities through athletic, youth and civic Parks Medium organizations to assist in maintenance and programming in city parks. Department 112 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Z"I Implementation Matrix: Sustainability and Resiliency ZVI Strategy Strategy Ownership Priority Number Goal 1: Develop a community-wide sustainability plan. Sustainability 1.1 romote energy and resource conservation through community programming Planning Commission Medium Sustainability 1.2 Provide incentives for energy efficient design, construction and operation. Planning Commission Medium Sustainability Incorporate conservation of natural resources in the design and construction of Community Medium 1.3 new developments in the downtown and urban areas. Development Sustainability New developments will conserve water resources and manage stormwater Community High 1.4 runoff, especially in urban hard cover areas. Development Goal 2: Protect and improve areas that contribute to the biodiversity of St. Joseph. Sustainability Maintain standards for developments on steep slopes to control for erosion and Planning Medium 2.1 minimize the removal of natural vegetation in rural areas. Department Sustainability Preserve rural natural open spaces as defined in the 2008 Park Master 2.2 Plan to provide migration opportunities for wildlife and provide recreation Park Board High opportunities for the community. Sustainability Prioritize the planting of native vegetation along rivers, wetlands and within public Park Board High 2.3 open spaces in rural areas. Sustainability Educate residents on the benefits of using native species in residential City Council Low 2.4 landscaping. Goal 3: Protect and improve water quality. Sustainability As the City reviews developments for stormwater management, care will be taken Planning 3.1 to ensure that these filtration practices are located away from shallow bedrock that Department High could increase groundwater contamination. Sustainability Protect the quality of groundwater to minimize the contamination of the drinking Public Works High 3.2 water supply. Sustainability The City will consult with agencies and organizations to protect and improve the Public Works Medium 3.3 quality of surface water including the Watab River and Sauk River. Sustainability 3.4 Maintain and enforce the wetland buffer and setback ordinance. Public Works Medium Goal 4: Conserve energy use in public and private sector development. Sustainability Encourage the use of technology and techniques that promote innovative methods to 1 City Council High 4.1 conserve energy. Sustainability 4.2 Strive to approve developments that meet LEED standards. Planning Commission Medium Sustainability 4.3 Development standards should allow for accommodating solar technologies. Planning Commission Low Goal 5: Encourage the reduction of solid waste. Sustainability Create programs to reduce the solid waste created in the City and encourage Public Works Medium 5.1 the use of recyclable, reusable, and biodegradable materials. Sustainability The City will work with the contracted waste management haulers to provide Public Works Low 5.2 volume pricing that encourages waste reduction. Sustainability The City will work with agencies and financial institutions to provide incentives 1 City Council Low 5.3 for construction projects that reuse building materials. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1113 114 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Strategy Number Strategy Ownership Priority Goal 6: Minimize the negative effect of hazardous materials on the environment. Sustainability 6.1 The City will review its use of hazardous materials and work to find safer Planning I Medium substitutes. Commission Sustainability 6.2 Educate St. Joseph residents and business owners on the safe disposal of Planning Medium hazardous materials. Commission Sustainability 6.3 Reduce the use of synthetic chemicals on City -owned properties. Building Inspections Medium Goal 7: Work towards improving air quality within the City. Sustainability 7.1 The City will evaluate the current ordinances that affect air quality and City Council High suggest improvements for outdated policies. Implement a program of education and regulation regarding the use of Sustainability 7.2 wood -burning fireplaces, stoves, and outdoor boilers to protect residents City Council Medium from air pollutants and particulate matter. Sustainability 7.3 Educate business owners and residents on alternatives to gas -powered City Council Low lawn mowers. Goal 8: Minimize noise pollution in the community. Sustainability 8.1 The City will review existing noise ordinances and see if updates are City Council Medium necessary. Sustainability 8.2 Enforce noise ordinances throughoutthe city. City Council Medium Goal 9: Increase the density of the City's urban forest. Sustainability 9.1 The City will create a management policy that protects or replaces City Council Low significant trees on development projects and Right of Way or easements. Goal 10: The City will research current issues caused by climate change. Sustainability 10.1 Develop ordinances to reduce urban heat islands in urban areas. City Council Medium Sustainability 10.2 Promote the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in residential, Community High commercial, and industrial uses and encourage conservation efforts. Development Goal 11: Preserve St. Joseph's Rural Heritage. Support urban and downtown farm -to -table programming like the Sustainability 11.1 community farmer's market to promote the health of the local agricultural City Council Medium economy. Sustainability 11.2 Ensure that all new development is compatible with the natural and man- Economic Development High made environment. Authority Preserve the scenic quality of the rural landscape by defining the edge Planning Sustainability 11.3 of the community and maintaining the rural character of roadways on the Department Medium edges of the community. 114 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN b db n(:d�Implementation Matrix: Community Engagement, Participation and Communication (A Strategy Number Strategy Ownership Priority Goal 1: Create a proactive, responsive and accessible government. Engagement Use technology to improve communication and provide efficient and 1.1 responsive services - e.g. applications and permit requests online, online Administration High property search tool/interactive map, shop local resource, events calendar. Engagement 1.2 Maintain the City's Emergency Operations Plan Administration High Engagement Ensure city documents and online information is available and currentfor the Administration High 1.3 public, provide email updates. Engagement Proactively build and maintain trust between city government/police and the Police High 1.4 community. Engagement Develop and maintain events calendar, and include more information on city 1.5 happenings (community events, city council activities, etc.) as part of regular Administration Medium communications with residents. Goal 2: Create opportunities for equitable civic participation. Engagement Strengthen engagement through neighborhoods, neighborhood associations, Planning Medium 2.1 and city advisory committees and boards. Department Engagement Partner with the local business community, local schools, faith based Planning 2.2 organizations, and student and community organizations to increase public Department Medium outreach. Engagement 2.3 Use social media to share information and encourage civic participation. Administration Medium Engagement 2.4 Support continuation and expansion of events that bring community together. Administration Medium Engagement Communicate and seek public input through multiple platforms (in-person, Administration High 2.5 online, others). Goal 3: Encourage youth involvement Engagement 3.1 tiollaborate with local schools and organizations. Administration Medium Engagement 3.2 Develop and provide internship opportunities. Administration Medium Engagement 3.3 Seek youth participation on steering/advisory committees and city boards. Administration Medium THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1115 . - - - PA � Strategy Number Strategy Ownership Priority Goal 1: Engage a diverse population of residents, business owners, and visitors as part of the implementation process. Implementation Establish a "Plan Implementation Committee" made up of local residents, Planning 1.1 businesses, employees, advocates and young people and seniors to advise Commission Medium the city on implementation priorities and phasing. Establish an ongoing communication program to provide the public Implementation information about the Plan. The public should be familiar with ongoing Planning High 1.2 opportunities to be familiar with the Plan and understand their role in the Department process. The City's website can be a primary source of information. Ensure that copies of the final Comprehensive Plan are available online and Implementation at public libraries. The purpose is to make the plan available to all residents 1.3 and employees. Having these documents easily accessible will ensure that Administration High developers and property owners can familiarize themselves with the plan elements and recommendations. Goal 2: Consistently monitor and evaluate the implementation process. Prepare annual reports that summarize the actions completed. City officials Implementation should be the ones to prepare the report and highlight key strategies Planning 2.1 completed over the course of the year. Reports can also identify areas of Department Medium delay that need to be addressed. Any potential changes or additions to the Plan can also be identified in this report. Implementation Provide a summary of the annual report to the general public. Information 2.2 regarding the status of plan elements will be summarized and available for the Administration Medium public on the City's website. Implementation Create press releases and social media blasts that promote significant Planning High 2.3 accomplishments relative to the Plan and its strategies. Department Goal 3: Provide resources that will help implement the Plan. Implementation Update the Capital Improvement Plan to ensure that it matches the City Council High 3.1 recommendations outlined in the Comprehensive Plan. Implementation Prepare department budgets and programs with the understanding of the Economic Development High 3.2 goals and strategies of the Comprehensive Plan. Authority Secure funds for the strategies listed as high-priority. Funding can come from, Economic Implementation but does not have to be limited to, the City, external governmental sources, Development High. 3.3 taxes, or private sector investment. This strategy should take place alongside Authority annual budget cycles and should maximize non -municipal resources. Goal 4: Require future decisions in the community regarding development, capital improvements, and budgeting to coincide with the Comprehensive Plan. Implementation Require approvals of zoning requests to follow the policies in the City Council 4.1 Comprehensive Plan. Implementation Require staff reports to mention the Plan in all aspects pertaining to policy, Planning Low 4.2 programs, and budgets. Commission Establish a line of communication between the Planning Commission and the Implementation City Council regarding the Comprehensive Plan. Communication must be Planning High 4.3 clear and frequent. Ensuring that interpretation of the plan is consistent will Commission be critical to the Plan's implementation. 116 1 THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1117 Strategy Number Strategy Ownership Priority Goal S:Update the Plan if needed. Implementation The Planning Commission will design the process to update the Planning 5.1 Comprehensive Plan. They will work with City staff to gather and allocate the Commission Low necessary resources. Prepare an updated Comprehensive Plan. The Planning Commission will Implementation involve the public to update the Plan when necessary. The public engagement Planning Low 5.2 process should be similar to that of this plan and the update process should Commission be completed in less than 18 months. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1117 . r .r� rr+� i''� •.!�[ .. • .� � .:'$� '.'.�'. ^c _ 'Fz } � • "r 1. tef . - T� .. SFE ;-.• .. `"•. .R yp,_ a. --_ _ _ ., �. FIT £r' ' Jr1 '• Iv �, r t➢" _ � �, �, �� � � ti--ate 17 AP ASQ J Y a`d.Y rrf \ �' f.'7.r-,�.� �* - _ '� k. Ems.•• - _ — i � ; �� •� • - - _• s dry —. _ ECWO w rP . .I m 0 1 Ll W -IA EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT Troy Goracke, Council Voting Liaison Gina Dullinger, Chair Chad Hausmann, Vice Chair Steve Olson Matt Johnson Daryl Schaefer Economic Development Authority (EDA) Park Board City Staff Therese Haffner, Community Development Director Judy Weyrens, City Administrator Terry Thene, Public Works Director Mayor/ City Council Mayor Rick Shultz Bob Loso Matt Killam Troy Goracke Dale Wick Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee Members Jodi Gertken, Centra Care Jerome Salzer, St. Joseph Township Larry Hosch, EDA Chad Hausmann, Planning Commission Dale Wick, City Council S. Margaret Wurm, St. Benedict Monastery Jon McGee, CSB/SJU Bob Ringstrom, St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce Randy Sabart, City Engineer, SEH Consultant Community Design Group 212 3rd Avenue North, Suite 515 Minneapolis, MN 55401 612-354-2901 www.c-d-g.org THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-123 Existing Conditions Report -Table of Contents This section provides an overview of existing conditions in St. Joseph and investigates the issues the city will need to address as it plans to serve current and future residents, visitors and businesses. A.1, Introduction A.2e Community Background A.3, Demographic Profile AA Natural Environment A.S. Land use & Zoning A.6 Housing A.7 Transportation A.B. Community Facilities A.9, Parks A.10. Economic Development A.11. Summary of Issues A-124 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN A.1. INTRODUCTION Overview This section provides analysis of the existing conditions within St. Joseph, Minnesota. The analysis examines St. Joseph from a variety of perspectives, creating a holistic picture of where the city is today and identifying the trends that are shaping where it will be in the future. Purpose of the Comprehensive Plan The purpose of the Comprehensive Plan is to serve as a tool to guide the efforts of St. Joseph citizens, elected officials, and staff as they work together in developing the City's future. Did you know? St. Joseph was originally called Clinton and was renamed to St. Joseph in 1870. In 1890 St. Joseph was incorporated. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-125 Key Questions The following key community characteristics and related questions should be considered when planning for the future. Demographics • Who lives in St. Joseph now? Can current and past demographics offer any indication to who will be living here in the future? Natural Environment What are the major features of the natural environment? What constraints and opportunities do they present for the city? Land Use How is land currently used in and around St. Joseph? How does this land use compare with current zoning? Housing • What are the defining characteristics of St. Joseph's housing stock? How will these characteristics influence future community development? Transportation • How do St. Joseph residents, workers and visitors get around the city? Utilities How is the utility infrastructure meeting current demand? What are the constraints on the currentwater, sewer, electric and communications infrastructure in St. Joseph? Arts What opportunities are currently available for growing the arts and community education? A-126 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Parks and Recreation • What recreational locations and programming are currently available? • Can residents and visitors easily access these opportunities? Schools and Recreation Is the current school system meeting demand? What constraints does the school district face? Economy • What are the economic development trends shaping St. Joseph's current economic landscape? • How can St. Joseph position itself to thrive in the current and future economic conditions? THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-127 Key Findings Analysis of the questions in the previous section provide a picture of some of the challenges with which the city is grappling. These challenges are also potential opportunities for innovation and growth. Proximity to St. Cloud and helps and hinders the city Because of St. Joseph's proximity to St. Cloud, it is easy for residents to go to St. Cloud for food and services making it difficult for businesses located within St. Joseph to thrive. But this proximity can also benefit St. Joseph by providing a much larger market of potential customers for city businesses, institutions and employers - including for dining, entertainment, arts and general employment. Economic activity is closely related to college school year The population of St. Joseph is close to 7,000 residents. With about 2,000 students enrolled at the College of Saint Benedict and living in St. Joseph (over 3,500 including Saint John's University), population is drastically lower in the summer compared to the school year. The student population has a major impact on the City's transportation, retail and housing markets. Ensuring the City diversifies its tax base is a top priority for the future of the City's economy. Pedestrian and Bicycle infrastructure does not match community need Based on community guidance received from previous planning documents, pedestrian and bicycle transportation was a priority, especially along CSAH 75. Current infrastructure does not allow for safe travel by these modes. A-128 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN A.2. COMMUNITY BACKGROUNE Community History The first settlers arrived in the St. Joseph area in 1854 and in 1858 St. Joseph Township was organized. Originally, called Clinton, St. Joseph acquired its current name in 1870. Many settlers moved to the area because of the fertile soils for farming. While Minnesota was in the process of becoming a state, St. Joseph was being platted and developed. In 1890, the Village of St. Joseph was incorporated. By 1930, the city had grown to over 1,000 inhabitants and was developing into an educational center of Minnesota with the College of Saint Benedict University opening in 191 3.Today, St. Joseph is known for its collegiate education system. Regional Setting St. Joseph is located in Central Minnesota 70 miles from Minneapolis and eight miles west of St. Cloud in the St. Cloud Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). The St. Cloud MSA has a population of 194,185 (2015 Estimate, MN State Demographic Center). It is located within Stearns County and other nearby communities include Waite Park, Sartell, and Sauk Rapids. The St. Cloud urban area cities have an array of medical, educational, and park and recreational facilities making the area attractive for continued growth. Ctirrpnt Comprehensive Plan St. Joseph's most recent comprehensive plan was developed in 2008. St. Joseph seeks to be a city that will continue to rise and embrace history, quality of life and diversity of land uses by valuing: organized, well managed growth, livable, safe surroundings, diverse, robust tax base, diligence in resource preservation and a vibrant, friendly downtown. Major goals and policies: Land Use Flexible, connected and efficient management of growth Offer an array of housing options and employment opportunities Preserve the small-town atmosphere, community identity, and historic character Preserve and enhance resident's quality of life THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-129 St. Joseph is an exciting community One of the things St. Joseph residents and employees love about the City is its many festivals and community events, especially Millstream Arts Festival and Joetown RocksJuly4th celebration. Demographics • Support a diverse community responsive to changes in demographic forces and trends Services • Reliable, efficient and cost effective provision of services • Efficient, friendly service delivery Natural Resources Retain the quality and quantity of natural resources Create widespread knowledge and appreciation of natural resources Increase sustainable building design Housing Foster development of sustainable, well-balanced supply of housing Maintain the current housing stock • Establish a vibrant connection between housing, the environment, recreation and employment Parks. Trails and Open Space Provide a sufficient amount of public land to meet the recreational needs of existing and future residents • Provide adequate and equitable funding for the acquisition, improvement, development, and maintenance of park and trail system components • Assure that private development will adhere to City standards for open space for parks, trails, and/or open space preservation Provide convenient and accessible recreation site and facilities for all community members Protect open space to preserve sensitive wildlife habitat, protect aesthetic views, and provide interconnecting greenways throughout the area • Explore avarietyofrecreational programsthatareresponsive to the changing needs and interests of the community and that are distributed evenly across socioeconomic users • Offer the community a citywide interconnected trail system with access to regional trails that meet recreation and transportation needs. • Promote natural resource protection A -13o I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Protect the City's natural resources and ecosystems through community education Utilities • Offer reliable, efficient, cost-effective, environmentally sensitive utility systems ranspor-LaLio l • Coordinate established trail system to connect with current bicycle and pedestrian network • Create new opportunities for bicycle and pedestrian travel • Establish continuity between existing and future transportation systems. • Establish proactive planning guidelines for future transportation framework Determine the best conceptual transportation plan for the City in full build -out Minimize impacts to natural and built environments • Provide guidance for the typical cross sections required for different collector and minor arterial alignments Economy • Continue to promote the sustainability of the City of St. Joseph in orderto enhance the quality of lifefor all residents • Promote commercial development and redevelopment Promote industrial development that maximizes the return on city investments Retain existing commercial/industrial uses Proactively and consistently promote downtown revitalization THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-131 41 r • The census is conducted every 10 years. The numbers for 2015 are an estimate based on current projections. • The population of St. Joseph rose significantly from 1990- 2010 but has slowed in recent years. Students that attend the College of St. Benedict who live on and off -campus in St. Joseph are counted as residents. A.3. DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE Overview This section describes demographic characteristics and trends within St. Joseph, the surrounding communities and Stearns County. The information provided here comes from the 2010 US Census, 2011-2015 5 -Year American Community Survey estimates and the most recent estimates from the Minnesota State Demographic Center. Findings • There is a high proportion of young -adults; however, the portion of the population that is 35 and older is below the county average, posing challenges for future growth in population and future economic development. • St. Joseph has a predictable yet fluctuating unemployment rate, indicating potential instability in sales and managerial job sectors. • Over a third of all households have a child under the age of 18, indicating a need for family -friendly infrastructure and activities. Population Growth The population of St. Joseph has been increasing at a rate much greater than Stearns County overall. During the recession in 2008 and in more recent years, growth has slowed in St. Joseph and in the surrounding communities. Table 1 below shows population change by decade, along with the most recent 2015 estimate. Implications for the Plan St. Joseph has to ensure that they can continue to house and support a growing population while continuing to attract new homeowners over the next twenty years? A-132 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Age Distribution Who makes up the St. Joseph population and how does this compare to the county as a whole? St. Joseph's population is split relatively evenly between youth, young professionals and those 35 years of age and older. In comparison, Stearns County has nearly half of the population 35 years of age or older with a quarter of the population being a young professional or youth. Figure 2 shows the breakdown of age in St. Joseph and Stearns County. Implications for the Plan Because the median age is lower in St. Joseph, availability of housing for young families and for those choosing to live alone while starting a career will be important. Recreational opportunities also need to be available for active young adults and children. Diversity of ages is a trait of healthy communities. Source: US Census Bureau, NIN State Demogroohic Center. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-133 M-- Population Growth in the St. JosephArea 1990 200046�mm - -- St. Joseph 3,294 4,681 42% 6,534 40% 6,772 4% St. Joseph 2,567 2,449 -5% 1,924 -21% 1 ° -32/0 Township ,302 Waite Park 5,020 6,568 31% 6,715 2% 7,514 12% Sartell 5,354 6,941 80% 15,876 65% 17,203 8% Sauk 7,864 10,213 30% 12,773 25% 13,406 5% Rapids St. Cloud 48,812 59,107 21% 65,842 11% 67,010 2% Stearns 118,791 113,166 12% 150,642 13% 154,446 3% County Source: US Census Bureau, NIN State Demogroohic Center. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-133 St. Joseph's Population by Age 2000 2015 Population 0.4 0.35 0.3 1800 0.25 0.2 0.15 1600 0.1 0.05 . 0 1400 Under 5 5 to 19 20 to 34 35 to 64 65+ ■ St. Joseph ■ Stearns County 1200 1000 800 600 400 1116 200 I I 1 0 1I' 11f 11' ,11 oil mm e5 5-9 10-14 15-19 20-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65-74 75-84 85+ 02000 223 194 235 843 1,368 472 457 286 202 204 142 55 02010 415 312 280 907 1,658 881 575 573 416 271 176 70 ■2015 341 364 247 1,312 1,772 690 599 519 380 208 245 72 ■ 2000 ■ 2010 ■ 2015 Figure 1. Graph shows the age distribution of St.Joseph in the years 2000, 2010, and 2015. Figure 2. Graph shows the age distribution of St.Joseph and Stearns County in 2015. A-134 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2015 Population 0.4 0.35 0.3 0.25 0.2 0.15 0.1 0.05 . 0 Under 5 5 to 19 20 to 34 35 to 64 65+ ■ St. Joseph ■ Stearns County Figure 2. Graph shows the age distribution of St.Joseph and Stearns County in 2015. A-134 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Race and Ethnicity More than 96% of the population of Stearns County identifies as white. Another 0.8 percent identify as African American, while the remaining 3.2% of the population is made up of Native American, Asian, Pacific Islander, or biracial. About 1.4% of the population is Hispanic or Latino of any race. Implications for the Plan Programming for non-native English speakers may be useful for new immigrants to navigate interactions with the city. Housing for multi -generational families may also be useful. Household Characteristics A household refers to all persons who occupy a housing unit. Households in St. Joseph grew 48% from 1990-2000, 65% from 2000-2010 and an estimated 2% from 2010 to 2015. St. Joseph has a larger percentage of households with children than Stearns County, St. Joseph Township and the surrounding cities of Waite Park and St. Cloud. However, there are more families with children who live in Sartell and Sauk Rapids than in St. Joseph. Table 2 shows household growth in the St. Joseph area and Table 3 shows the percentage of family households in the St. Joseph area. Implications for the Plan Sidewalks and recreational facilities need to be safe and easy to navigate for children and families. Schools and school related functions need to be easily accessible for both children and parents. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-135 Source: US Census Bureau, MIN State Demographic Center. St. Joseph 35.9% St. Joseph Township 28.7% Waite Park 25.3% St. Joseph 755 1,120 48% 1,845 65% 1,888 2% St. Joseph Township 803 845 5.2%° 704 -17% 493 -30% Waite Park 2,116 2,967 40% 3,127 5% 3,428 10% Sartell 1,849 3,443 86% 5,859 70% 6,440 10% Sauk Rapids 2,879 3,921 36% 4,960 26% 5,241 6% St. Cloud 17,746 22,652 28% 25,439 12% 26,159 3% Stearns County 39,748 47,604 20% 56,232 18% 57,928 3% Source: US Census Bureau, MIN State Demographic Center. Source: US Census Bureau, 2011-20 IS American Community. ,4-136 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN St. Joseph 35.9% St. Joseph Township 28.7% Waite Park 25.3% Sartell 41.5% Sauk Rapids 39.5% St. Cloud 26.2% Stearns County 30.6% Source: US Census Bureau, 2011-20 IS American Community. ,4-136 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Income Levels Theestimated median household income inSt.Joseph is$51,265 compared to $56,336 in Stearns County. The median income has decreased in St. Joseph from 2010, which was $57,548. About 29.8% of individuals in St. Joseph have incomes below the poverty level compared to 13.5% of individuals in Stearns County. Income calculations may be skewed given the presence of over 2,000 college students who typically report little income. The median age in St. Joseph is 21.7 compared to 34 in Stearns County. Additionally, 32.4% of St. Joseph residents are in the 25-64 age group, which is significantly less than Stearns County with 48.5% in that same age group. Table 4 below shows the most recent distribution of household incomes within St. Joseph and Stearns County and Table 5 shows the median income in St. Joseph, the surrounding communities and Stearns County. Implications for the Plan Resources within St. Joseph need to be available for residents of all income levels. Some potential means to address this condition may include additional resources for small business development, and educational opportunities. Further ways to address may include retaining young adults after college and attracting families to locate to St. Joseph. Source: US Census Bureau, 2011-2015 ACS 5 -Year Estimates. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-137 Less than $1 0,000r 6.9% 6.2% $10,000 to $14,999 4.3% 4.3% $15,000 to $24,999 11.1% 9.9% $25,000 to $34,999 11.7% 9.5% $35,000 to $49,999 13.6% 14.1% $50,000 to $74,999 15.8% 20.8% $75,000 to $99,999 18.9% 14.9% $100,000 to $149,000 12.1% 13.5% $150,000 to $199,000 4.9% 3.7% $200,000 or more 0.6% 3.1% Source: US Census Bureau, 2011-2015 ACS 5 -Year Estimates. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-137 Unemployment The unemployment rate in Stearns County and St. Joseph fluctuates seasonally. The graph below shows the Stearns County unemployment rate by month from September 2012 to October 2016. As is evident, unemployment rate fluctuates by between 1 and 2 percentage points each season, with the spring seeing a drop in unemployment. US Bureau of Labor Statistics does not keep unemployment data specifically for the City of St. Joseph. The most recent ACS data (from the US Census Bureau) shows St. Joseph's unemployment rate to be 3 percent; however, it can be reasonably expected that this number fluctuates with the seasons in a manner similar to the entirety of Stearns County. Implications for the Plan Availability of year-round jobs may mitigate the fluctuation in employment levels - many of the jobs available within St. Joseph are linked with the College of St. Benedictwhich is not in session year round. The College of St. Benedict is working on creating a year round campus. Additionally, attracting new residential and industry will strengthen the economy. Source: US Census Bureau, MIN State Demographic Center. A-138 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 000 Median Household Income, qu 2000 M_="Cha"ne St. Joseph $38,939 $57,548 48% $51,265 -11% St. Joseph $45,396 $46,11 1 2% $66,250 ° 44/0 Township Waite Park $33,803 $39,489 17% $39,695 0.5% Sartell $52,531 $66,473 27% $73,872 11% Sauk $45,857 $53,972 18% $48,410 -10% Rapids St. Cloud $37,346 $41,536 11% $45,437 9% Stearns $42,426 $53,889 27% %56,336 5% County Source: US Census Bureau, MIN State Demographic Center. A-138 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Figure 3. Graph displays unemployment rate distribution in St. Joseph from September 2012 to September 2016. Source: US Census Bureau, MIN State Demographic Center. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-139 7 5 /\A 5 V\d m oe 4 C m E 0 Q E3 as C 2 1 0 gy3a��'S"',� oy��Q��ay3b�-Oy ac O� �` P,Ybaa-P -O, -0,y -as�a day Oyu -& -P�oyhoa-4,y�a ��y� �0�6 ���ryQ•yyQ��Qy� I� 4a tea eA ye �a 4 Figure 3. Graph displays unemployment rate distribution in St. Joseph from September 2012 to September 2016. Source: US Census Bureau, MIN State Demographic Center. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-139 Did you know? St. Joseph is the trailhead to the Lake Wobegon Trail, which is 62 - mile shared -use trail connecting Central Minnesota. Source: LakeWobegonTrail.com A.4. NATURAL ENVIRONMENT Existing Conditions This section provides an overview of conditions related to St. Joseph's natural environment. The natural environment has implications for what land use decisions are made and how the City approaches preservation and sustainability. The City of St. Joseph is split between two watersheds, the Mississippi River-Sartelland the Sauk River watersheds. The South Fork of the Watab River and Sauk River flow through St. Joseph, which are tributaries to the Mississippi River. St. Joseph has many vibrant natural amenities that make it an exceptional place to live and visit. Important features include a lake known as Lake Sarah at the southeast corner of Minnesota St. W and 1-94, nine parks, and trails; in fact, the city is also the trailhead to the Lake Wobegon Trail. Terrain is relatively flat within St. Joseph with hills outside of the city. There are wetlands within St. Joseph and the City's future growth area in St. Joseph Township. Figure 4 below shows existing resources including wetlands, lakes, and ponds. Figure 4. Map demonstrates different bodies of water in the Stearns County township Source: City of St. Joseph. ,4-140 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 Stearns County 2030 Comprehensive Plan It is important that the plans for St. Joseph parkland incorporate the goals of the larger Stearns County effort. The Parks, Open Space, and Recreation portion of the plan proposes improvements to parks and trails in and around St. Joseph. Some of the major recommendations that affect St. Joseph include: • Finding ways to connect current trails to city parks and neighborhoods and community facilities. St. Joseph is the trailhead to the Lake Wobegon Trail. • Pursuing the acquisition and/or expansion of priority Scientific and Natural Areas. • Collaboration opportunities between city, county, state, and federal entities to provide trail maintenance. • Improving pedestrian and bike connectivity in Stearns County communities. Issues to Explore The natural environment is one of St. Joseph's most important assets. Important questions going forward include: What environmental threats, like invasive species and climate change, might impact St. Joseph? How can the city plan to respond to these threats? THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-141 E This section outlines the current land use and zoning characteristics of St. Joseph, including parcels, land use, parks, roads, housing stock, and current zoning. • Commercial uses downtown and along CSAH 75. Each location has a unique identity that can be preserved and enhanced through commercial planning. • Industrial Park located adjacent to CR 133 near CSAH 75. • Mixed -Use commercial and residential land uses have already been incorporated downtown. • St. Joseph is home to several community events as well as many recreational spaces. St. Joseph has a variety of opportunities and constraints within its currentland usethatwill help shape the future ofthe city. Important focus areas include: the downtown, residential neighborhoods, the CSAH 75 corridor, and the industrial park area. Figure 5. Map shows existing roads within the Stearns County Township. Source: City of St. Joseph. A-142 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN The Downtown Downtown St. Joseph is compact, historic, and quaint. It is bound physically by CSAH 75 on the north and the college on the south. The downtown is home to small businesses and restaurants. Mixed -Use developments have already been created. Public participation feedback indicates that the downtown is a favored location within St. Joseph. Residential Neinhhorhoods Current residential areas are stable and there are a variety of housing options available. The businesses along this corridor have great visibility from the highway and have sufficient traffic mobility for commercial use. Industrial Park The St. Joseph Industrial Park is located adjacent to CR 133 with a number of businesses, some of which have international connections. Therefore, the availability of transportation is extremely important. The industrial park has convenient access to major corridors to include: CSAH 75, MN Highway 10 and 15 and Interstate 94. In addition, limited rail is available for industries opting to utilize alternative shipping. Zoning Considerations • There is already potential for mixed-use development with residential and commercial uses along CSAH 75 Corridor and downtown. This will create an incentive for dense growth. • Flexibility of uses could be a potential innovation to encourage development. Establishing floating zones, overlay zones, or incentive zones could be places to start. Did you know: A floating zone is a district that doesn't appear on a zoning map until a developer applies for rezoning. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-143 Issues to Explore Zoning Limitations Given housing needs, including for student housing and assisted living facilities, the current zoning framework may be limiting. A variety of housing options, including multi -family, single-family and mixed-use developments will increase available housing for all ages while also boosting the St. Joseph economy. Housing Stock Overall, existing housing is stable and modern. There are existing single-family homes within the CSAH 75 Business District and Central Business District (downtown) that are planned to be redeveloped into commercial. Greenfield and infill development can supply additional housing. Land Use Beyond St. Joseph Surrounding land use is conducive to expansion. The City of St. Joseph and St. Joseph Township have entered into an Orderly Annexation Agreement (OAA), which will incorporate more land into the City. The St. Joseph Township OAA area is 12.48 square miles and includes the area north of the Sauk River and north and east of 1-94 to 320th Street, and west of 73rd Avenue. The current future land use plan identifies an additional 6.67 square miles of potential future growth area. A-144 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN L e" n, :1 City Limit Central Business District I `• �_J +-_-_--mow �'�_-_-_1L�--, +, J/�. � I �•__--- �•-------- 1 Community Oriented Mixed Use PUD Corridor Commercial Light Industrial Low Density Residential Medium Density Residential High Density Residential Educational Open Space Public Water i rINS�00, AA HOUSING Existing Assets Between 2000 to 2010 the number of household units in St. Joseph increased by 33% from 1,147 to 1,912. St. Joseph's housing stock is mostly single family homes that are owner - occupied. The median housing value in St. Joseph is lower than in Stearns County but the median rent is comparable. About 6% of all housing is made up of studio/ one bedroom units, and more than 75 percent of units have three or more bedrooms. The majority of housing in St. Joseph is relatively new with over 50% built in 1990 or later. The tables below offer an overview of housing characteristics in the St. Joseph area. Source: US Census Bureau, MIN State Demographic Center. • St. Joseph 1,147 1,912 33% St. Joseph Township 876 740 -16% Waite Park 31065 3,424 12% Sartell 3,531 6,123 73% Sauk Rapids 4,017 5,219 30% St. Cloud 23,249 27,338 18% Stearns County 50,291 61,974 23% Source: US Census Bureau, MIN State Demographic Center. • Source: US Census Bureau, MIN State Demographic Center. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-147 411 -. - St. Joseph 69.3% 30.7% $727 $160,900 2.62 St. Joseph Township 88.2% 11.8% $733 $221,400 2.64 Waite Park 42.1% 57.9% $800 $131,400 2.17 Sartell 69.2% 30.8% $969 $179,600 2.61 Sauk Rapids 63.4% 36.6% $643 $147,900 2.48 St. Cloud 52% 48% $721 $141,300 2.37 Stearns County 70% 30% $742 $166,400 2.53 Source: US Census Bureau, MIN State Demographic Center. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-147 Housing Unit Type &Year Built Percent Studio 2.3% 1 Bedroom 3.4% 2 Bedrooms 18.2% 3 Bedrooms 35.6% 4 Bedrooms 23.3% 5 or more Bedrooms 17.1% Built 2000 or later 37.4% Built 1990-1999 19.6% Built 1980-1989 7.6% Built 1970-1979 13.7% Built 1960-1969 11% Built 1959 or Earlier 10.8% Source: US Census Bureau, NIN State Demographic Center. Opportunity for new housing Abouttwo-thirds of the housing unitswere builtafter 1980 and are less likely to need rehabilitation and/or redevelopment. In order to attract new residents to encourage growth in the population and economy, housing will need to be available for differing income levels and offer multi -family, and single family units. A-148 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN A.7. TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY Existing Assets and Issues This section examines transportation issues in St. Joseph, including usage, infrastructure and public transportation services. Walkability Downtown St. Joseph offers a compact, walkable core. Some streets throughout the city already have sidewalks or trails in place to create a pedestrian network. Walking is a top priority for investment as identified through community engagement. Along CSAH 75, the Lake Wobegon Trail provides a safer alternative to biking in the shoulder extending to the west into Avon. However, the trail currently ends at 12th Avenue in St. Joseph. Construction of a planned trail extension to the east into Waite Park and St. Cloud is anticipated to be completed in 2017. Transportation Plan The City of St. Joseph adopted a Transportation Plan, which identifies future collector and arterial roadwaysto improvetraffic movement and public safety. Both the City's Transportation Plan and Park and Trail System Plan identify future trails. Currently, the City has 10.15 miles of trails and includes an additional 11.42 miles of planned trails. Public Transportation Jefferson Lines College Connection and Tri -Cap Transit Connection provide transit services in the St. Joseph Area. In the city, Tri -Cap Transit provides dial -a -ride service around St. Joseph and to St. Cloud. Jefferson Lines College Connection provides weekend shuttles to Maple Grove, Mall of America and University of Minnesota. The College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University provide a shuttle that runs between the two every 30 minutes. 0 W - THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-149 w•.1i Roads in St. Joseph fall into the following categories: Principal Arterials, Minor Arterials, Community/Major Collector, Neighborhood/Minor Collector, and Local/Neighborhood Roads. Interstate 94 and County State Aid Highway 75 Interstate 94 access provides a key connection for commerce in and around St. Joseph as well as opportunities to attract new commercial near 1-94. CSAH 75 is an important transportation corridor for the city. The most recent Minnesota Department of Transportation traffic counts show a peak adjusted average daily traffic of 22,700 trips per day. East-West Corridor The first phase of a new east -west collector in the southern portion of St. Joseph known as Field Street is under construction. The new east/west collector street was identified as a need through previous transportation planning due to a lack of east/ west connection within the city. Ultimately, Field Street will connect further east to 20th Avenue SE to CSAH 75. This street will improve traffic movement, public safety, as well as open up opportunities for new residential and commercial development. North Corridor and CSAH 2 Realignment A traffic study was conducted on St. Joseph County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 2 to realign CSAH 2 to the west of the city center, connecting it to CSAH 75 at CSAH 3. Construction of the realignment was completed in 2012, which also included construction of a 10 -foot wide bituminous trail on the eastside of CR 2 and CR 3 connecting to the Lake Wobegon Trail. A second phase of the project (North Corridor) includes a future east/west street connecting to CR 133 improving traffic movement and opening up opportunities for new development. At this time, the second phase of the project is not funded. A -15o I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Issues to explore Traffic Volumes CSAH 75 has high traffic volumes. How can St. Joseph better take advantage of this traffic flow? North Corridor If the north corridor project moves forward, what are potential opportunities for the greater community? What economic, health, or other community benefits might be derived from the implementation of this project? How can the City help facilitate those opportunities? Transportation Solutions With a high population of young professionals and students, how do public transportation services need to be altered to serve this demographic? THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-151 MnDOTTraffic Data ----------- T0F—T to ry 155 74,410 435 Saint Joe�l h ao Saint Joseph -1 RNS -------------- - - June 28, 2017 Weigh in Motion 2015 Counties Volume 2014 Ak VolumefSpeed 2013 Ak VolumefSpe ed/C lass 2012 2008 and older City Labels Saint Cloud 1:32,000 0 0.275 0.55 1.1 mi 0 10.423 0.05 17 11,m Figure 6. Map displays traffic volumes throughout the surrounding areas of St.joseph. Source:XX A-152 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN A.8. COMMUNITY FACILITIES Community facilities include structures and services administered by public and semi-public organizations that provide for the everyday needs of the city having an impact on the quality of life in St. Joseph. Community facilities include local government, public safety, utilities, and education. This section explains the current state of community facilities in St. Joseph, and looks at potential challenges these facilities face in the coming decades. City Government The City of St. Joseph is comprised of Administration, Finance, Community Development, Building, Public Works, Police, and Fire. In 2017, all of the city departments with the exception of the Fire Department relocated to the newly constructed St. Joseph Government Center. The St. Joseph Government Center also has a multi-purpose room that offers space for training with the potential for use by community organizations in the future. The facility will meet the needs of all of the departments for manyyears to come. The need for additional police officers will continually need to be evaluated as the population increases. The Fire Department serves St. Joseph, St. Joseph Township and the southern portion of St. Wendel and operates out of one fire station that was built in 1997. The Department is a member of the Central Minnesota Mutual Aid Association and has an Insurance Service Office (ISO) rating of five. Education St. Joseph is located within St. Cloud Area School District 742. Kennedy Community School located in St. Joseph is home to 750+ students in Grades Pre -K - 8. All Saints Academy, a Catholic School for Pre -K through Grade 6 is also located in St. Joseph. St. Joseph high school students are served by several public and private schools in St. Cloud and in the surrounding communities. St. Cloud Area School District performs well when compared to others in the state. However, it does not perform as well as neighboring school districts. There is a perception that this puts St. Joseph at a disadvantage in attracting new home construction, along with the fact that there is not a high school located in the community. The College of St. Benedict is located near the Central Business ■ THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-153 District and Saint John's University is located two miles west in Collegeville. Community Center The City of St. Joseph purchased land and the building known as Colt's Academy in 2015 where the St. Joseph Government Center is today and where a future community center is planned. St. Joseph residents have wanted a community center for some time now. A steering committee has been guiding the project and the St. Joseph City Council approved funding for up to $6 million. The estimated cost of the project is over $12 million in which private donations will cover about half of the project costs. Up to 40,000 square feet could be added to the former Colt's Academy School. Planned amenities include gym space, a walking track, climbing wall, a kid's zone, and community rooms. Water and Wastewater St.Joseph's drinking water comes from six welIsand is processed at the City's two water treatment plants, which will meet future demand until 2040. There is currently one water tower that has a storage capacity of 500k gallons. A second 750k gallon water tower is planned in the near future to meet water storage demands. The City is reviewing the relocation of water crossings at CSAH 75 to First Street for ease of access. The water lines currently cross at College Avenue which is a busy intersection. This could be included in a future street improvement project. St. Joseph, along with the Cities of St. Cloud, St. Augusta, Sartell, Sauk Rapids and Waite Park are serviced by the St. Cloud Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF). St. Joseph, along with the area cities will continue to monitor maintenance and expansion needs. A-154 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Electric and Gas Currently, electricity is provided by both Xcel Energy and Stearns Electric. Stearns Electric operates as a Co -Op. Electric lines currently run above ground through alleyways. Gas is provided by Xcel Energy. Broadband Currently, broadband (coaxial cable and fiber) is provided by Midco, Charter, and the City of St. Cloud. In St. Joseph broadband access and speed meets the market demand. Issues to Explore Explore and collaborate with St. Cloud Community Education to provide educational and recreational programs in St. Joseph. Figure 7. Map shows various utilities within the Stearns County Township. Source: City of St. Joseph. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-155 A.9. PARKS Existing Assets St. Joseph has a diverse array of public recreational facilities with its nine city parks, and trail system. The City's Public Works Department maintains the city parks, which offer both active and passive amenities, such as sports fields, courts, a disk golf course, rental pavilions, a sledding hill, and trails. All of these assets taken together offer a rich palette of recreation options for residents and visitors. St, Joseph Master Park Plan This plan was adopted in 2008 and outlines 10 goals for the future of the city's parks. These goals are oriented towards the continued preservation and promotion of St. Joseph's stunning natural features for the enjoyment of residents and visitors alike. Stearns County Parks, Open Space and Recreation Plan This plan, adopted in 2008, is intended to be used in supporting the creation and maintenance of Stearns County's trail system for a variety of uses. The plan identifies current assets, including parks, city services in the area, access points, and infrastructure. St. Joseph is integral to the plan because it is the head of the Lake Wobegon Trail, and it administers trails and parks within its boundaries. The trails plan includes St. Joseph in its recommendations regarding Lake Wobegon Trail and the coordination of trail maintenance services among city, county, state, and federal government. Issues to Explore The City of St. Joseph has exceptional land opportunity with its various park facilities. Chief among them is Mill Stream Park with the South Fork of the Watab River and the new city parkland adjacent to the Sauk River. How can the City improve its parks and recreation to take advantage of this land? How should the City approach potential investment in trail improvements based upon the Trails Plan to enhance year round tourism options? A-156 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN A.10. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Existing Assets Economic development refers to the health of business activity in a city. It usually includes to the adoption of new technology, transition between types of industries, and improvement of living standards. It can also guide how to create and retain desirable jobs providing a good standard of living to a city's residents. Education is the largest industry in St. Joseph with the College of Saint Benedict being the largest employer. Education jobs depend on enrollment growth. St. Joseph's largest employer is not likely to have employment growth in the future. Any rapid future growth in St. Joseph would mean either that job growth in the community has accelerated or more residents are commuting to the St. Cloud Metro Area. Employment in a community is tied closely with household growth. Jobs must be within St. Joseph or within a reasonable driving distance in order for St. Joseph to grow. St. Joseph and the region are performing moderately well and should continue to attract additional development if desired. Recent planning efforts include the 2008 Comprehensive Plan and a 2007 Retail and Residential Market Demand Study. Source: City of Stjoseph. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-157 I MW? College of St. Benedict Private College 780 Coborns Supermarket 125 Kennedy Community School Elementary and Secondary School 100 Central Minnesota Credit Union Finance Service Center 63 Scherer Trucking Truck Transportation 39 Borgert Products Concrete Pave Manufacturer 35 City of St. Joseph Government Services 35 Precise Plumbing and Heating Contractor 28 Sentry Bank Financial Institution 28 CentraCare Clinic Medical 20 Fabral Steel Roofing and Siding Manufacturer 20 Source: City of Stjoseph. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-157 Current Efforts Economic Development Authority The St. Joseph Economic Development Authority is focused on keeping existing businesses in St. Joseph and attracting new businesses. Keeping an existing business in a community is usually easier than attracting a new business. Therefore, the EDA and city staff visit with existing businesses as part of their Business Retention and Expansion (BR & E) Program. The EDA also offers financial resources to assist existing and new businesses, including the Business Facade Architectural Grant and Demolition Grant Programs, Tax Increment Financing (TIF), Tax Abatement, and a Revolving Loan Fund. Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation (GSDC) The City of St. Joseph is a member of the GSDC, which focuses on retaining existing industry and attracting new industry to the Greater St. Cloud region. Past events include an annual site selector event where GSDC hosted a national site selector sponsored by the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). St. Joseph, along with a number of surrounding communities participated in a site selector familiarity tour to introduce the site selector to business assets in Greater St. Cloud region and allow the site selector to offer feedback on how the region can improve competitive positioning to attract new industry. 2007 Retail and Residential Market Demand Study The 2007 retail and residential market demand study indicated a demand for multi -family development in St.Joseph, coordinated planning between the CSAH 75 corridor and the downtown, and the implementation of a supermarket. The market study assisted in attracting a new Coborn's Grocery Store, which was built in 2009. Chamber of Commerce The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce is involved in local efforts to support the local economy. Issues to explore Local downtown Businc Both large commercial buildings and "Mom and Pop" shops are important to the residents of St. Joseph. How can we ensure that there is a balanced mix between local shops and larger commercial buildings? A-158 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN New Commercial and Industrial Attracting new commercial as well as industrial businesses would help diversify the City's tax base and increase wages. Proximity to St. Cloud Because it is so easy for St. Joseph residents to travel across the city border to St. Cloud for their goods and services, it is important to market local business so they remain a first choice for local residents while also growing their customer base beyond St. Joseph. The City's economic environment should remain attractive for entry by new companies and local startups. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-159 A.11. SUMMARY OF ISSUES Overview An examination of St. Joseph's existing conditions and issues shows a city with many assets already in place, and many opportunities to surmount potential issues and challenges. Current economic and demographic forces prompt careful examination and consideration for future city planning. For example, a younger population poses a challenge both for creating job opportunities to meet upcoming demand and for sustaining assets like public schools and higher education. The community's housing stock is stable but limited for single - occupancy residents. Additionally, because of the College of St. Benedict is located within the city, fluctuations in the student population also cause fluctuation in the city's economic activity. St. Joseph has a wide array of impressive assets poised to meet these current and future challenges. These assets include St. Joseph's natural environment, residential community, business community, several non-profit organizations, arts community, recreation opportunities and history. Recent notable efforts to push St. Joseph forward while also preserving its unique charm have gained traction. Some of these efforts include the Highway 2 redesign, construction of Field Street, community center planning, extension of trails, and the work of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Authority. Together, these efforts and careful long-term planning can help support the development of a more sustainable and prosperous St. Joseph. A-160 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN -J h ITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I A-161 -iiAm NIQ Page intentionally left blank. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I B-163 ENGAGEMENT REPORT - Table of Contents B.1. Introduction B.2. About this document B.3. What we've learned B.4, Summary: Public Open House & Workshop B.5. Summary: Pop -Up #1 - College of St. Benedict B.6, Summary: Pop -Up #2 - Joint Planning Board Pop -Up B.7. Summary: Pop -Up #3 - Community Showcase B.8. Summary: Pop -Up #4 - Chamber of Commerce Meeting B.9. Summary: Pop -Up #5 - Farmer's Market B.10. Summary: Online Engagement B.11. What's Next? B.12. Appendix B-164 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN B.1. Introduction The City of St. Joseph has an exciting opportunity to establish a Comprehensive Plan Update that identifies strategies and actions to achieve community goals and visions. As part of this work, St. Joseph and other members of the project management team are reaching out and engaging the public using many different tools and approaches. These efforts, conducted in Fall 2017, to date include: Five (5) Pop -Up engagement events held in coordination with larger community events Public Meetings (March 8th, 2017) Online survey Interviews Engagement activities yielded a rich variety of information regarding resident ideas and preferences for the future of St. Joseph. This document summarizes what we learned through in-person Pop -Up engagement activities and an Open House. Descriptions for individual events completed are included, as well as an Appendix with addition community engagement and its importar I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I B-165 B.3. WHAT WE'VE LEARNED Key themes from Dot Activity Dot boards presenting a range of options for priorities for St. Joseph were made available for participants at each of the engagement events. Participants could select up to five of twenty-four options. The most popular options selected during the engagement phase were: • Sustainable energy • Expand indoor recreation opportunities • A strengthened downtown • Connections between the College of St. Benedict and the City B-166 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Key Themes from Post -Its Received Written comments were also collected ataIIfirst-round Pop -Up engagement events. The comments were then sorted into three broad categories: what residents love about the City of St. Joseph, what challenges they currently face, and what they envision for St. Joseph in the future. Assets: Things people LOVE about the City of St. Joseph Atmosphere and Character • Residents love the small-town character of the City. They can get to places quickly because of the small size and lack of traffic congestion. They love the small businesses in the downtown area. Because of the close-knit nature of the community, the residents also feel close to the government and the police. Outdoor Recreational Activities • Residents enjoy that the City is the start to the Lake Wobegon Trail and there are so many parks available throughout the City. They love the proximity to nature as well as the community garden and farmer's market. Businesses • Residents wrote thatthey love the gathering spaces at local businesses, such as the Local Blend and the Bad Habit Brewery. The "personal" feel of the Minnesota Street and College Street intersection with eclectic businesses creates a place that residents want to visit. Challenges: What do people wish they could change About St. Joseph? Infrastructure The most mentioned infrastructure issue was that Highway 75 bisects the city. Pedestrian crossing improvements are needed across Highway 75 as well as traffic mediation. Community Differences • The divide between the college students and residents creates a sense of "others" within the community. Funding and Resources • There is no high school available within St. Joseph. Residents want to see resources being used to create a high school as well as a public library. They also mention that there is a need for public transportation for non -students. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I B-167 Sample of comments received for key themes Opportunities: Suggested Improvements Improve mobility across Highway 75. Although Highway 75 is a much needed corridor to get through St. Joseph and connect to St. Cloud and Interstate 94, it does bisect the City. • "Highway 75 divides the city and is a busy road" • "Motorists don't stop for pedestrians" Create a stronger relationship between the college and the residents. Residents get the sense that they are an "other" within the City and want to feel more connected. The College stated that they want to hold more events for the community to bridge the gap. • "There is a divide between the college/monastery and the 'locals"' • "The college wants to hold more events, especially in the summer. We have quite a few students that stick around and serve in the community" Create a plan to implement more public facilities. Although there is a long process to institute a new school within the St. Cloud School District, coordination among governing bodies will keep all residents informed of the process. • "We need a high school in St. Joseph" • "There is a lack of a public library" Highway 75 bisects the city. Assets: Things people LOVE about the City The atmosphere and character. People love the "small-town feel" and the friendly people of the city. • "I love the small size. It is a town that keeps its hometown core and character" • "There is a smaller population so you get to know people" • "There is a rural feeling, but you still get a quality education" • "The helpfulness and growing comfort between the'town and gown'. The lay people and the religious folks" Outdoor Recreational Activities. Residents appreciate that the City is the start to the Lake Wobegon trail and there are many parks available throughout the City. They love the proximity to nature as well as the community garden and farmer's market. • "I love the proximity to nature. The St. John's Arboretum, the lakes of the area, and Lake Wobegon Trail" • "I love the involvement with sustainable garden and local produce" Lake Wobegon Trail travels east to west of the City. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I B-169 BA EVENT SUMMARY: PUBLIC OPEN MOUSE &WORKSHOP A community workshop and open house were held at the St. Joseph Government Center on Wednesday, March 8th, 2017. The workshop ran from 6 pm to 8 pm with a 30 -minute open house taking place prior to the meeting at 5:30 pm. The project team set up a table and boards around the room where the open house would be held. The boards outlined project goals for participants and offered opportunities for feedback regarding how they would prioritize goals for St. Joseph's future. The project team received two written comments and over 50 stickers responses. Cards with a QR code were given to residents so they could share their opinions and ideas at a more convenient time through the project survey website. Activities included: Ranking top 5 priorities for St. Joseph's future Using sticky notes to come up with their own improvements Map exercises to share theirfavorite places in the city, areas that they think could be improved, or areas that could use investment Key Points • The most popular suggestion during the workshop was to prioritize "a strengthened downtown" with approximately 61 % of all participants ranking this in their top 5. • The next most popular suggestions were "encourage more active and healthy lifestyles'; "preserve historic buildings'; and "preserve our identity" all at approximately 44%. • In the map activity, participants identified Highway 75 as a challenge because it limits pedestrian mobility and safety. • Additionally, during the map activity, participants highlighted the "historic downtown" as an asset because it is "convenient and walkable." The College of Saint Benedict and St. Benedict's Monastery were labeled as positive aspects of the community. The Wobegon Trail and facility were also identified as valuable mobility components of St. Joseph, and participants advocated that it were extended. B-170 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN a Aerial Maps used to identify assets and challenges of the city. z � 1 Participants wrote on sticky notes to provide ideas. JJ Attendees worked together to find locations that need improvements. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I B-171 /f z � 1 Participants wrote on sticky notes to provide ideas. JJ Attendees worked together to find locations that need improvements. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I B-171 B.5. EVENT SUMMARY: POP-UP #1 - COLLEGE OF ST. BENEDICT A Pop -Up workshop was held at the College of St. Benedict on Thursday, March 16th, 2017. A table was set up at Gorecki Hall during lunch and passing hour from 1 pm - 3pm. The College of St. Benedict was chosen as an opportunity to connect with St. Joseph residents and CSB students that may not necessarily attend public meetings. The projectteam set up a table and boards in a primarywalkway of the hall. The boards outlined project goals for participants and offered opportunities for feedback regarding how they would prioritize goals for St. Joseph's future. The project team received about two written comments and over 350 sticker engagements. Activities included: Ranking top 5 priorities for St. Joseph's future Using sticky notes to come up with their own improvements Map exercises to share theirfavorite places in the city, areas that they think could be improved, or areas that could use investment Cardswith a QRcodewere given to residentsso they could share their opinions and ideas at a more convenient time through the project survey website. Key Points • The most popular suggestion during engagement activities was "Improving connections between St. Benedict and the city" with approximately 72% of all students ranking this choice in their top 5. • The next two most popular suggestions were "bring more places for daily shopping into town" (59%) and "expand outdoor recreation activities" (57%). • During the map activity, students highlighted the College of St. Benedict and the downtown area as an asset to St. Joseph. They also suggested building more convenience and grocery stores inside the town. B-172 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 14 r '� Source: Community Design Group Attendee reading zoning board at event. G { Participants discuss the types of zoning areas that exist in St. Joseph. B-174 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Aerial Maps used to identify assets and challenges of the city. B.6. EVENT SUMMARY: POP-UP #2 - JOINT PLANNING BOARD POE .. A second Pop -Up workshop was held at the Government Center prior to a Joint Planning Board meeting on Thursday, March 16th, 2017 from 6pm- 7pm. This event was chosen as an important opportunity to connect with both members of the city and township about their goals for the City's future. The project team set up informational boards and activities in the entryway of the building. Boards outlined project goals for participants and offered feedback regarding the Comprehensive Plan. The project team received two comments and 7 participants in the sticker activity. Participants were invited to engage in a sticker activity that listed twenty-four suggested priorities where they chose the top five options that most appealed to them. Handouts with a QR code were given to event attendees so they could share their opinions and ideas at a more convenient time through the project survey website. Activities included: • Ranking top 5 priorities for St. Joseph's future • Using sticky notes to come up with improvements • Map exercises to share their favorite places in the city, areas that they think could be improved, or areas that could use investment Cards with a QR code were given to participants so they could share their opinions and ideas at a more convenient time through the project survey website. Key Points • The most popular suggestions during engagement activities were "making the city more bikeable" and "expanding indoor recreational activities" both at 60% of participants indicating that this is a top priority. • The next three most popular suggestions were "Increasing focus on sustainable energy'; "preserving our identity" and "strengthening the downtown" (all at 45%). In the map activity, participants noted that the Lake Wobegon Trail was an asset to the community, and suggested expanding it. Participants also selected the downtown area as an asset. Highway 75 was identified as a dangerous crossing area for pedestrians. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I B-175 B.7. EVENT SUMMARY: POP-UP #3 - COMMUNITY SHOWCASE A Pop -Up workshop was held at the Kennedy Community School on Saturday morning, April 1st, 2017 from 10 am to 1 pm. The Community Showcase was chosen as an event because community members were already gathering and engaging to learn more about their community. This event was chosen as an important opportunity to connect with members of the community that may not typically attend a public meeting. The project team set up a tent and boards in the gym alongside community businesses. Project team members engaged the visitors as they walked from booth to booth. The boards that were displayed outlined project goals and offered participants several ways to give feedback. One activity used aerial maps to show areas of the city that residents like or want improved. A second board offered a sticker activity for participants to rank their top 5 priorities for the City of St. Joseph. The final board asked participants what they love about St. Joseph and what challenges theyface living in the city.The projectteam recorded 70 participants in the sticker activity and about 30 comments collected. Handouts with a QR code were given to event attendees so that they could share their opinions and ideas at a more convenient time through the project survey website. Key Points • The most popular suggestion during engagement activities was "Expand indoor recreation" with 43% of all participants ranking this in their top 5. • The next three most popular suggestions were "expand outdoor recreation" (34%) and "preserve our identity" (33%) and "preserve historical buildings" (31 %). • Several written comments requested better infrastructure for senior citizens. This was also reflected through comments suggesting organized activities for seniors. • During the event, attendees particularly highlighted Highway 75 as a dangerous crossing for pedestrians. B-176 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN your Goalsls €off e is a s � + •^a-.�•w..sdn..,-v.-� ks ■v �* xa i. E.,.ewaa i i**Y.■}.kRti�i �tiinw..: ro.Mw�r� x �� aMnyyyuwaplyr Participant viewing dot -board at Community Showcase. or IN A comment box was available for participants at the event. Aerial maps were provided to show participants the current land use plan. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I B-177 Attendee reading comprehensive plan update board at St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce event. B-178 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Participants discuss the plan updates. El Boards displayed information regarding the plan updates. B.8. EVENT SUMMARY: POP-UP #4 - CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEETING A fourth Pop -Up workshop was held at the Government Center prior to a Chamber of Commerce meeting on Wednesday, May 10th, 2017 from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm. This event was chosen as an important opportunity to connect with both members of the Chamber and residents about their goals for the City's future. The project team set up informational boards and activities in the entryway of the building. Boards outlined project goals for participants and offered feedback regarding the Comprehensive Plan. Participants were invited to engage in a sticker activity that listed twenty-four suggested priorities where they chose the five options that most appealed to them. Handouts with a QR code were given to event attendees so that they could share their opinions and ideas at a more convenient time through the project survey website. Activities included: • Ranking top 5 priorities for St. Joseph's future • Using sticky notes to come up with improvements Key Points • The most popular suggestion during the engagement activity was "increase housing opportunity and availability" with 75% of participants choosing this answer. • The next two most popular suggestions were "add living wage jobs downtown" and "attracting more families" (all at 50%). THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I B-179 B.9. EVENT SUMMARY: POP-UP #5 - FARMER'S MARKET A Pop -Up workshop was held at the St. Joseph Farmers Market on Friday afternoon, May 12th, 2017 from 3 pm to 6:30 pm. The Farmer's Market was chosen as an event because community members were already gathering and engaging to learn more about their community. This event was chosen as an important opportunity to connect with members of the community that might not typically attend a public meeting. The project team set up a table and boards in the parking lot alongside community businesses. Project team members engaged the visitors as they walked from booth to booth. The boards that were displayed outlined project goals and offered participants several ways to give feedback. One board offered a sticker activity for participants to rank their top 5 priorities for the City of St. Joseph. The second board asked participants what they love about St. Joseph and what challenges they face living there. Activities included: Ranking top 5 priorities for St. Joseph's in the future • Using sticky notes to come up with improvements Handouts with a QR code were given to event attendees so they could share their opinions and ideas at a more convenient time through the project survey website. Key Points • The most popular suggestion during the engagement activity was "add more bike lanes and become more bike - friendly" with 66% of all participants ranking this in their top 5. • Another popular suggestion was "improving public transportation" with 56% of participants choosing this option. • Several written comments requested dog parks among other new infrastructure. B-180 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �r�vision}� � the future of 5t. Saseph, ',, Boards at the St. Joseph Farmer's Market Participants pose for a picture at the St. Joseph Farmer's Market. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I B-181 B.10. EVENT SUMMARY: ONLINE ENGAGEMENT A survey was posted on the project website the last week of February 2017. The questions were divided into the following topics: Your Vision and Priorities for St. Joseph Residential Development • Employment • Commercial and Industrial Development • Transportation • Your experiences with employment and housing in St. Joseph • Improving planning and engagement • Demographic questions At the completion of the survey on May 23rd, there were 373 total participants with 248 completed responses. The survey gave participants opportunities to give feedback about the above topics. Several questions, including one about their priorities for the future of the city, included the same options that were available to participants at the in-person Open House and Pop -Up events. Key Points The the most popular priority for survey participants was "strengthening the downtown" with 30% of all participants ranking this in their top 5. The next three most popular suggestions were "expanding outdoor recreation" (30%) "expanding indoor recreation" (27%). Several written comments requested building a high school within St. Joseph. This is reflected by 13% of survey participants writing comments regarding a lack of secondary school. B-182 I THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Additional Pop -Ups will be held after the completion of the first round of the Draft Comprehensive Plan Update. The future of St. Joseph is in your hands! Plan your own pop-up engagement session What is this project about? The project website offers event schedule, engagement response summary, and online survey. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I B-183 0 dasvr -is 10 av\lu►uot��nw� 12. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Importance of community engagement Community outreach and engagement is critical to the successful development and implementation of the Comprehensive Plan. Proactive, robust and community - oriented engagement is vital to shaping the direction of the plan and increasing awareness, understanding, and ongoing support for the plan as it guides the growth and development of St. Joseph in a way that supports the needs and aspirations of residents and students. Reaching diverse populations Consistentwith St.Joseph'sgoal of engaging all communities IMG _1225.JPG,targeted outreach focused on organizations and partners serving minority, low-income, and/or health disparity communities will be conducted where possible. Engagemnt effortq in thin community Take the meeting to the people One of the keys for building public engagement is to make it easier and more convenient for more people to participate. The project team has taken engagement to places where people are already congregating, setting up tabling and Pop -Up workshops at community events and popular destinations. This makes it easier for community members to provide their comments and guidance without having to attend a separate meeting. User-friendly materials To effectively communicate with members of the public, we have developed welcoming, user-friendly, jargon -free project materials. These materials are visually- -attractive and written with easy -to -understand language. The materials are oriented to residents who may not be familiar with planning processes and projects. Bright colored dot stickers, post -it notes, pens, and markers are provided for people to share comments. Questions asked at our engagement events • What do you LOVE about St. Joseph? • What is a challenge to living in St. Joseph? • Which priorities are most important to the future of St. Joseph? • Which areas within St. Joseph do you like? Not like? Think we should prioritize? All of the comments and votes received at the engagement events were processed, analyzed, and summarized in this document. THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I B-185