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Arena

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1. How many sheets of ice do you have?

One sheet, 196 ft. x 85 ft.

2. What is the capacity of the facility?

741 during ice season
1874 during dry-land months

3. What type of ice resurfacing machine do you have?

We have an electric Zamboni.

4. How old do you have to be to participate in adult open hockey? What ability level is expected to participate?

You must be 18 years of age. Beginners to advanced skaters are welcome. Helmets and gloves are required to play. All other equipment is recommended.

5. Is equipment required for open hockey?

For adult open hockey, a helmet and gloves are required. All other gear is recommended. For youth open hockey all equipment is required.

6. Do you have ice year around?

The regular ice season is from September to March. Look for summer ice during July.

7. Can the dry-land floor be used for trade shows or other sporting events?

Yes - almost any event can be held on the dry-land floor. The Arena has hosted the Hospital Book Fair, the Jesse James Craft Show, the Home and Garden Show and Piccadilly Circus as well as lacrosse and soccer practices, roller hockey and dry-land training for hockey players.

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Building Inspections

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1. When is a building, plumbing, mechanical or electrical permit required?

The State Building Code requires permits to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change occupancy of a building. In general, a permit is required for most construction projects where something is being built, repaired, replaced, or remodeled. 

The best way to find out if you need a permit is to contact Building Inspections at 507-645-3004. Discuss your plans with an inspector before you begin construction to determine needed permits. 

Permits are usually required for the following:

• New buildings
• Additions (bedroom, bathroom, basement finish, family room)
• Residential work (deck, porch, garage, fence, fireplace, pool, water heater, water softener, furnace replacement)
• Renovations (garage conversion, basement finish, kitchen expansion, siding, roofing)
• Electrical
• Plumbing systems
• HVAC/mechanical systems (heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems)

2. Can a homeowner do work on their own home?

Typically the answer is yes as long as the property owner lives in the home. If the homeowner hires someone to do work, that person must be a licensed contractor for residential properties. Check to see if a permit is required for the work being done by contacting the Building Inspections Office for help to determine if work requires a permit or if special conditions apply to your project.

Electrical Inspections in Northfield are performed by the State of Minnesota. For information contact: Randy Edel, State Electrical Inspector , at 507-334-3748.

Building Inspections

3. How does one get an electrical permit?

Electrical permits are issued by the state. Contact: State Electrical Inspector Randy J. Edel at 507-334-3748.

Electrical Permit and Inspection Checklist information can be found at the following website.
Construction Handouts

4. How do I obtain a Building Permit?

Complete a building permit application and submit it with all required submittal documents. The type of work you are doing will determine the required submittal documents. Allow five days for residential permits and ten days for commercial permits for review of your building plans before beginning your project. If your commercial project is large or your submittal documents require corrections, it may take longer. When the review is complete, you will be contacted with the fee total.

Building Permit Applications

5. When is a building permit not required?

The State Building Code specifically exempts 14 items. The main ones are buildings 120 s.f. or less, fences not over six feet high, retaining walls not over four feet high from footing to top of wall, painting, tiling, cabinets, finish work, swing sets, playground equipment,etc.

6. What methods of payment are accepted for permits?

Currently check or cash are accepted for payment of permits.

7. What are the required inspections for a Building Permit?

Inspections are performed to check for building code compliance. A record inspection card is issued with the building permit and is required to be posted on the job site. This card should list the required inspections and indicates what inspections have been completed and approved. Do not cover work that may need inspection. If you have questions, contact Building Inspections at 507- 645-3004.

Building Inspections

8. Who must have a Residential Contractor’s License?

The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry establishes the rules for licensing of residential contractors. Typically all work performed for a homeowner must be by a Licensed Contractor. Please see Construction Codes and Licensing Division at the Department of Labor and Industry or call 651-284-5065.

MN Department of Labor and Industry

9. Can I build a shed or detached garage on my property?

Typically a shed or detached garage can be placed on lots. Building permits may be required. For further information on placement, size, and code information, contact the Building Inspections Office at 507-645-3004 or go to City Services/Building Inspections on the website.

Accessory Structure Requirements

10. Where do I find information about my property?

The following websites will provide information on your property in Rice County or Dakota County: Property Information

11. How do I locate my property line?

Most newly developed lots should have a surveying pin at the corners of the lot. These ½ inch round pipes are typically buried in the ground and you may need a metal detector to locate. The metal pipe may have a cap with the surveyor’s information on it. These pipes shall not be moved or removed. Contact the Community Development Office at 507-645-3059 for additional information.

Property information can be obtained from the Rice County and Dakota County websites. Property Line Information

12. Why is my yard marked up with different colors of paint or flags?

Flags and paint markings are utilized to identify the location of underground utilities. State law requires that utilities are located through the Gopher State One Call system prior to excavation activities to help avoid damage and accidents caused by striking the buried lines. These activities could include repair of sewer and water services, damaged cable, or phone lines, or even installation of new utility lines. These markings will also appear if a property owner in the area is making an improvement to their property such as the installation of landscaping walls or a pool. Two days before doing any digging in your yard it is required by State law to contact:

Gopher State One Call

13. What is a right of way?

A right of way is the publicly owned area in a development or neighborhood. Rights of way are important for the installation and maintenance of streets and private and public utilities, including electrical, phone, sewer and water, and storm sewer lines. A common misconception is that the homeowner’s or business owner’s property line goes right up to the curb. It does not. The public owns a certain amount of the land behind the curb (right of way) that extends into the residential or business property line. The size of the right of way is not the same for every property. The right of way area behind the curb is also used for snow storage when the city plows streets. The city administers the use of this area through a permitting process. Contact City Engineering office at 507-645-3020 for further assistance.

14. What is an easement?

An easement is a right the property owner has given to another person or entity to utilize land that the person or entity does not own. Easements can be used for roads, water and sewer lines, drainage, and ponding, or be utilized by private utility companies for the right to bury cables or access utility lines.
Typically, easements are either included as part of the original plat of the property or have been established through negotiation with a property owner. The easement stays in effect until the easement is no longer needed and is legally vacated. If the property is bought and sold, the easement remains in effect.
Almost every property platted in the last 20 years has an easement of some form on it. The most common form of easement in a residential area is a drainage and utility easement. This easement is normally 5 to 20 feet wide and runs on all sides of a property.

15. Can I build a fence on my property?

Typically a fence can be placed on lots. Typically six feet heights are maximum in residential rear lots and four feet in residential side yards. More information on placement, size, and code information can be found in the Land Development Code in Article 3, Section 3.3.1, Fencing and Walls:

Fencing

16. Can I dig on my own property?

Any time that digging is done on any property within the state, Minnesota Law requires that Gopher State One Call be contacted 48 hours before you plan to dig to identify if there are any utilities buried on the property.
• This service is free to the property owner.
• It is the responsibility of the property owner to conduct excavation in a careful and prudent
manner. Never assume the depth of a utility or that the depth of the utilities is consistent.
• Watch for private utilities such as sprinklers, power lines to garage or out buildings, propane gas
lines, gas grill lines or invisible fencing as these will not be located by Gopher State One Call.
Gopher State One Call

17. What is considered a blighted property?

In summary, the City ordinances recognize that if uses or structures or activities cause blight or blighting conditions described in this article are allowed to exist, undesirable neighborhoods and harm to the welfare, health and safety of the public may occur. No person shall maintain or permit to be maintained any causes of blight or blighting factors upon any property. The following are considered blight:
(1) With the exception of a permitted junkyard or salvage yard, the storage or accumulation of junk or other refuse shall not be kept outside of an enclosed structure. Building materials may be kept outside of an enclosed structure for a maximum of 30 days following the expiration of a building permit for which such material has been acquired. For purposes of this subsection, the term "junk" is defined as any material or substance which does not serve, nor is it intended to serve, any useful purpose or the purpose for which it was originally intended. Junk is considered to include but not be limited to refuse, empty cans, bottles, debris, brush used furniture and appliances, and so forth.
(2) In any area the existence of a structure which, because of fire, wind, natural disaster, or physical deterioration, is no longer suitable as a dwelling, nor useful for any other purpose for which it was intended, is prohibited.
(3) In any area zoned for residential purposes, the existence of a vacant dwelling, garage, or other outbuilding, unless such building is kept securely locked, the windows are kept glazed or neatly boarded up, and is otherwise protected to prevent entrance thereto by vandals, is prohibited.
(4) In any area, the storage of junk automobiles is prohibited. For the purpose of this subsection, the term "junk automobile" shall include any motor vehicle, part of a motor vehicle, or former motor vehicle, stored in the open, which is not currently licensed for use upon the highways of the state and is either:
a. Unusable or inoperable because of lack of or defects in component parts;
b. Unusable or inoperable because of damage from collision, deterioration, or having been cannibalized;
c. Beyond repair and therefore not intended for future use as a motor vehicle; or
d. Being retained on the property for possible use of salvageable parts.

18. Who is responsible for removal of snow and ice from a public sidewalk?

During the winter it is up to each property owner to clear public sidewalks of snow and ice. City ordinance requires owners or occupants to clean the sidewalks abutting the property of snow and loose or melting ice within twelve hours after snow or ice has ceased. This is necessary to ensure the safety of people using the sidewalks during the winter. Some things to remember: 

Do

• Remove snow and ice from your sidewalks and intersection handicap ramps abutting your property with 12 hours of snowfall ending.
• Clear snow the width of the sidewalk. Remember that sidewalks are used by strollers and wheelchairs in the winter.
• Remove ice to bare pavement or make as level as possible and treat with sand, salt or similar material.
• Clear any snow that may be blocking a handicapped ramp, fire hydrant, or catch basin.

Don't

• Shovel or plow snow into the street or across the street, Violators caught shoveling snow from private property into the street will be fined.
• Overexert yourself while shoveling. Excessive strain from the cold and hard labor may cause heart attacks.

19. What are some of the most common code violations?

SIGNS - real estate, garage sale, and contractor signs placed on city right-of ways. (City staff collect hundreds of signs each year and deliver them to the Street Division at 1710 Riverview Drive at the rear of the building).
GARAGE SALES - garage sales are limited to three (3) consecutive days and not to exceed three (3) events per calendar year, per residence.
PARKING - motor vehicles parked on the street from 3 am to 6 am when space is available in the driveway. Parking on grass or lawn is prohibited.
GARBAGE CANS - containers must be stored inside a building or screened area or behind the front line of the principle building.
ABANDONED or JUNK VEHICLES - inoperable automobiles on private property for 90 days or more and have expired license tabs.
BLIGHT:
PUBLIC NUISANCES - examples include accumulation of debris/junk/pet feces and obstruction of public sidewalks and/or streets by tree limbs, bushes, building materials, vehicles, etc.
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE - buildings, structures and accessory structures not maintained in good repair.
WEEDS: Lawns that are more than 12” in height or contain noxious weeds must be mowed.
RIGHT OF WAY: Weed, grass, plantings may not exceed 30 inches in the City right of way. Trees in the right of way must be trimmed to a minimum height of eight feet. This is a visibility, safety requirement.

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Human Resources

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1. I want to apply for a job with the City. Is there an application deadline?

Yes, each job posting has a closing date listed on the position description. All applications must be received by 4:00pm on the posted close date unless otherwise specified. Once a position closes, it will be removed from the website and applications will no longer be accepted.

2. I missed the deadline. Can I still apply?

No. Once a closing date for a position has passed, no applications will be accepted or considered. Please continue to check the Job Opportunities section of the website, or sign up under "Notify Me" to be alerted when a new job has been posted.

3. How can I get an application?

Each job posting on the website has an employment application attached. You can print the application from your computer, or stop in to the Human Resources office to pick up a copy.

4. Do I need to live in the City of Northfield to work there?

No, you do not need to be a resident of Northfield to work for the City.

5. How do I know if I qualify for a position?

The minimum qualifications and supplemental questions are listed in the job posting. Your application will be reviewed, along with any other materials required on the job posting, to determine whether you meet these qualifications. Your education and experience, licenses, certificates, and special skills will be reviewed. If all the information is not provided, you may be considered unqualified or less qualified than other applicants.

6. How will I be contacted regarding the status of the position I applied for?

You will be contacted by the Human Resources Department. If you are selected for an interview, Human Resources staff will call you. If not, you will be notified in writing. Be sure to check the email address you provided with your application, as notifications could come via USPS or email.

7. Do I have to submit a separate application for each posting?

Yes. Applications are accepted for each individual job posting. If you are applying for two positions at the same time, an application for each position must be submitted.

8. I applied for a job with the City last month. Can you just use the application I submitted then?

Yes. The City keeps applications on file for one year. You must contact Human Resources to have your application resubmitted for the desired opportunity.

9. I don't see a job opening, but I would like to submit my resume so that I may be considered for a future opening.

The City does not keep resumes on file to use for future use. To be considered for a position, you must complete a city application for the specified job. If you would like to attach your resume to the application to give us more background on yourself, that is acceptable.

10. What if I need an accommodation to apply for or perform a job?

Please contact Human Resources to make arrangements for accommodations.

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MetroNet

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1. I’ve received information from MetroNet. Who are they?

MetroNet is a leading provider of 100% fiber optic internet, television, and telephone services. MetroNet has an agreement with the City of Northfield to install a citywide fiber-optic network either underground or on existing utility poles, giving residents access to gigabit speed internet, some of the fastest in the world, along with stunning television picture quality, and clear, reliable telephone service. MetroNet currently provides service or is under construction in over 100 communities in Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Ohio, Minnesota, and Florida. This provides residents an additional choice for internet, television, and telephone bringing competition into the marketplace. MetroNet has a website dedicated to addressing any questions or concerns residents may have about the construction process.

Call MetroNet at 877-386-3876

Visit MetroNet construction process

2. Who are these people in my yard? Are they allowed to be there?

Yes. MetroNet established a franchise agreement with the city of Northfield, and they are obtaining the necessary permits to build out their network. Just like other utility companies, MetroNet has the right to access the city’s right of way, which extends across streets from sidewalk to sidewalk, and easement areas, typically located along the street, the sidewalk, the rear lot line, or between two lots. Utility companies use easements to construct and maintain overhead and underground lines. MetroNet crews have legal access to these areas to install their fiber cables, in addition to equipment such as boxes buried at ground level, typically placing them in a central location utilized by multiple utility providers. If your easement is within a fenced area of your property, MetroNet will need access to this area as well. 

For more information about easements, and what you can expect during construction, visit MetroNet's website. If you have questions or concerns, call MetroNet’s customer care line at 877-386-3876.

Visit MetroNet construction process

3. What if my lawn, fence, etc. is damaged during construction?

The construction phase of this project is temporary, and MetroNet crews do their best to minimize the impact to property; however, technicians do need to either hang fiber-optic cables on utility poles or run them underground in order to extend service to subscribing residents. 

MetroNet has a website dedicated to addressing any questions or concerns residents may have about construction. Residents can also call 877-386-3876. MetroNet promises to answer all inquiries and address any concerns within 24 hours (one business day Monday through Friday) and to repair any damage occurring during construction of their network.

Ask MetroNet a question

4. Can I move the flags in my yard?

Please do not remove the flags. MetroNet is legally required to have utilities locate their underground transmission line, such as gas, water, and electric lines prior to construction. The flags show where the existing utilities are, helping MetroNet crews avoid these areas. Once these colorful flags or temporary landscape-safe spray paint appear in your yard, or along the street, construction should begin within a week. Once construction is complete, the flags will be removed. Weather permitting, MetroNet will rake, seed, and straw your lawn in the areas where digging occurred.

5. Should I notify MetroNet if I have a sprinkler system, dog fence, sump pump line or other underground facilities?

Yes. You can mark your sprinkler system, dog fence, sump pump line etc. with white flags or landscape-safe spray paint. You can also notify MetroNet online by using the ask a question section on their website or by calling 877-386-3876.

Notify MetroNet or ask a question

6. Why is MetroNet going through my yard – I never said I wanted the service!

MetroNet is creating a fiber network throughout the city, so people who want to sign up for service may do so. As with other utilities, the goal is to make it as widely accessible as possible, although there is obviously no requirement for any home sign up for service.

7. How long will MetroNet be in my yard doing work?

MetroNet workers may be in your yard from 30 minutes up to one day. If other utilities are overhead, MetroNet will install the fiber optic cables on existing poles. If utilities are underground, MetroNet will bury the network in those same areas. Before doing underground work, MetroNet will have the other utility companies locate their transmission lines and will temporarily move any obstacles within the utility easement.

8. What’s a utility easement?

Utility easements are located on most properties and are designated by city ordinance to be accessible to utilities, such as gas, water, electric, and cable providers. MetroNet signed a franchise agreement with the City of Northfield to locate its fiber-optic network in these utility easements. MetroNet’s construction website contains a wealth of information about what to expect during construction, including a video explaining utility easements.

View the video and read additional information

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Police

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1. Is your vehicle a target for theft?

In order for a criminal to carry out their act they need the opportunity to commit the crime. Remove the opportunity and it becomes much more difficult for the criminal to make you their victim. The Northfield Police Department is asking community members to help reduce theft from vehicles by taking these prevention measures: 

• Always lock your vehicle doors even in your own driveway. 
• Do not leave valuables in your car. Lock them in your trunk or take them inside.
• If you have a garage, use it, and keep it locked.
• Always park in a well-lighted area. 
• Never leave keys in your vehicle.

Report thefts and any suspicious activity immediately to the police by calling 9-1-1. Remember that crime affects everyone. By working together we can reduce crime in our community!

2. I received a ticket. Where do I go to pay it?

Northfield lies in two counties. If you receive a Rice County citation, you must go to the Rice County Courthouse in Faribault, Minnesota. If you receive a Dakota County citation, you must travel to one of the Dakota County facilities. The county seat in Dakota County is Hastings, Minnesota. The county identification will be displayed in the area where the court date and court house location is listed on the citation.

3. Where do I go to get a solicitor's permit?

Solicitor's permits may be obtained at the Northfield Police Department, 1615 Riverview Drive, in Northfield Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm. There is a fee structure and the process requires a background check and takes several days. You may obtain additional information by calling our administrative offices at the non-emergency police number, 507-645-4475.

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Pool

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1. What is the length of the lap lanes?

50 meters

2. Can we bring food from home or outside vendors into the pool area?

Yes. We do allow food to be brought in.

3. How old does a child have to be to enter the pool without supervision?

Ten years old.

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Public Works

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1. How can I find out the easements on my property?

Contact Public Works at 507-645.3020.

2. How can I get a copy of a Subdivision Plat drawing?

For copies of Subdivision Plat drawings contact Community Development at 507-645-3059 or Public Works at 507-645-3020.

3. How do I request a street light for my neighborhood?

Contact Public Works at 507-645-3020.

4. How do I get a stop sign installed in my neighborhood?

Regulatory signs require a Residential All-Way Stop Control Application

5. I am having a neighborhood block party. Do I need a permit?

Yes. Applications are available at the Engineering Department at City Hall. Please call 507-645-3020 with questions or view the application Block Party Permit Application

6. I need to locate underground utility lines on my property. Who should I call?

Contact Gopher State One Call at 1-800-252-1166.

7. The street light in my neighborhood is burned out. Who do I call?

The street lights are maintained by Xcel Energy and can be reported at 1-800-960-6235 or directly sent to Xcel Energy at the following site:

Xcel Streetlight Outage Reporting

8. When will my neighborhood street be treated for ice or have the snow plowed?

The City has an Ice/Snow Control Policy. Is assists the Public Works Department during ice/snow storms. Major arterials and areas around schools are treated first. Collector and residential streets with steep hills are next. The remainder of the neighborhood streets are treated as time allows and depending on the severity of the storm.

9. Where can I get a Street Map of the City of Northfield?

You can purchase a street map at the Finance Department of City Hall. Available maps and pricing can be found at Map Figures

10. Who do I talk to about getting a traffic signal or sign installed?

Please contact Public Works at 507-645-3020.

11. Who is responsible for maintaining the sidewalk along my property?

State statute places the responsibility of sidewalk maintenance upon the property owner.

12. Who is responsible for maintenance of my driveway which is within the public right-of-way?

The property owner is responsible for all necessary maintenance of their driveway.

13. Can I put plantings on the boulevard?

The City of Northfield has a tree policy relating to planting on the boulevard. Contact the City Forester at 507-645-3032 for more information.

14. Who can I contact if I have questions about trees on my property or the boulevard?

Contact the City Forester at 507-645-3032.

15. How do I reserve a field at the soccer complex on Jefferson Parkway?

These fields are maintained and scheduled by the Northfield Soccer Association. You may view their website at http://www.northfieldsoccer.org/ Northfield Soccer Association

16. How can I reserve a baseball/softball field in Northfield?

Please contact Public Works at 507-645-3045.

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Rental Program

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1. Can my home be rented?

The City of Northfield has a Rental Program for any residential home that is rented. The Rental Ordinance specifies that certain areas in the City can have no more than 20% of the block as rental property. Please check with the Building Inspections Office at 507-645-3004 to determine if a home is allowed to be rented. Rental Program

2. Where do I make a complaint regarding a residential rental property?

If the complaint is regarding safety items in the rental unit, the first step is to contact the landlord and allow for adequate time for any repairs or corrections to be made. If after a reasonable amount of time the landlord has not responded, please contact the Building Inspections Division at 507-645-3004. The City cannot assist with issues regarding the rental lease or non-safety items. If there is any doubt of whether it is a safety issue, please contact the Building Inspections Division.

Rental Program

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Sustainable Building Policy

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1. What developments does this policy apply to?

This policy applies to new construction and significant renovations and additions in municipal developments and developments seeking a financial assistance in the form of:

• Housing and redevelopment funds
• Tax increment financing (TIF)
• EDA – only grants and forgivable loans
• Land write downs
• Bonds
• Tax abatement
• Low-income housing tax credit
• MIF
• Conduit financing
• All projects with state and federal funding requiring approvals by the city (i.e. ARP)

Significant renovations and additions are defined as those that are of 10,000 square feet and greater and replacing or installing HVAC equipment.

2. Why use a third-party rating system? Will this increase the cost of development?

Using a third-party rating system, such as LEED or Minnesota Green Communities, ensures that buildings are meeting sustainability requirements that are widely recognized as best practices. Doing so also clarifies liability and also allows for more certainty for the design team in knowing the policy requirements will be met. The cost for engaging the third-party rater is typically less than one percent of the cost of a project and when examined early in the design process, studies show that utilizing sustainability practices contributes 1 to 3% to total costs on average.

3. How does the city have the authority to do this policy? Is this a code?

Cities have the authority to add conditions when granting financial assistance. The Sustainable Building Policy is a set of requirements ONLY for buildings requesting financial assistance through the city. Buildings not receiving financial assistance would not be subject to the requirements. Because of that and that the state establishes the building code, this policy is not a code.

4. How were the listed rating systems selected?

The policy aims to cover a broad spectrum of sustainability areas including energy, water, waste, and materials. The listed rating systems were selected because they achieve that aim and because they are used in similar policies by other cities in the region. Creating regional consistency helps to improve implementation efficiency and lower costs. As rating systems are constantly evolving, the policy is designed for flexibility with other equivalent rating systems being allowed as approved by the city for an individual development. These two tables describe the rating systems and Northfield Green Requirements (NGR) standards:

Rating systems

Rating system	Applicable developments	Certification body	Description
B3	Commercial, multifamily	University of Minnesota Center for Sustainable Building Research (CSBR)	Minnesota-specific rating system. Developed originally for state of Minnesota bonded projects. It is available now for all developments for a fee.  Categorizes requirements by: Performance management Site and water Energy and atmosphere Indoor environmental quality Materials and waste
LEED	Commercial, multifamily, single family	US Green Building Council	Globally recognized rating system. It is available for all developments for a fee. Categorizes requirements by: Location and transportation Sustainable sites Materials and resources Indoor environmental quality Water efficiency Energy and atmosphere
Green Communities	Multifamily	Minnesota Housing Finance Agency for projects receiving their funding; otherwise Enterprise	Enterprise Green Communities is a national rating system targeted at multifamily. It is available for multifamily developments for a fee. The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency requires implementation of and provides technical resources for the Minnesota version of that standard for projects it funds. Categorizes requirements by: Integrative design Location and neighborhood fabric Site improvement Water Operating energy Materials Healthy living environment Operations, maintenance, resident engagement
ParkSmart	Parking structures	Green Business Certification	Globally deployed rating system. It is available for parking developments for a fee.  Categorizes requirements by: Management Programs Technology and structure design Innovation

Northfield Green Requirements (NGR) standards

NGR requirement	Standard	Applicable developments	Certification body	Description
Energy efficiency	Sustainable Buildings 2030 (SB2030)	Commercial, multifamily	University of Minnesota Center for Sustainable Building Research (CSBR)	Minnesota-specific performance standard following the Architecture 2030 model that seeks net zero energy construction by the year 2030. In 2021, the standard is 80% more efficient than the same building built to code in 2006. Prescriptive path is available.
Energy efficiency	Zero Energy Ready Homes	1 to 3 unit residential	U.S. Department of Energy	National standard targeting small residential with both prescriptive and performance based paths.
Renewable energy	B3 Guideline E.2	Commercial, multifamily, single family	US Green Building Council	Evaluate the feasibility of sourcing 2% of energy load with on-site renewables. Install if cost-effective per B3 guideline.

5. How does this policy relate to the ever-evolving rating system versions and energy code?

The policy requires compliance with the most recent rating system version in existence at the time of development application. Where elements of the selected rating system and energy code differ, the policy requires adherence to the most stringent.

6. How many projects does this apply to?

Looking back five years, this policy would have applied to seven developments. If historical development patterns continue, we’d anticipate about 1 to 3 projects per year would be subject to the sustainable building policy.

7. What happens if a developer chooses not to the follow the policy? What happens if the project doesn’t certify under the chosen requirements?

Developers who request funding from the City of Northfield will be notified of the sustainable building policy. If the developer chooses not to follow the policy, the city can withhold granting the funding request. Once the project is complete but chooses not to certify under the chosen sustainability standard, the city has the option to rescind the funding incentives provided.

8. Can the city reduce taxes for homeowners if they choose to do this type of building?

This is not part of the policy.

9. What if a project can’t meet some requirements due to factors that are outside of project control (for example Green Communities requires public transportation locations nearby)?

Compliance will be based on specific context of developments. Because most publicly funded developments involve negotiations with the city, such elements will be addressed in that process.

10. Is the city considering specific incentives for the sustainable building policy?

No, not at this time.

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Water Treatment Plant

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1. Why does the City need to build a water treatment plant?

The city's water is above a Minnesota Department of Health guideline for manganese and is not recommended to be consumed by infants under 1 year old. The way to lower the level of manganese in the water is by providing treatment.

2. What treatment will the City water provide?

The new water treatment plant will use gravity filtration with reverse osmosis to remove iron, manganese and hardness minerals or calcium and magnesium.

3. It seems like the treatment plant is very expensive, were there other options studied to provide safe drinking water for all residents?

Yes, the city's consultant studied 3 treatment options:

1. Gravity filtration
2. Gravity filtration with reverse osmosis
3. Gravity filtration with lime softening

4. Why was gravity filtration with reverse osmosis selected as the best treatment option for the City?

Gravity filtration with reverse osmosis was selected because of the removal of manganese in the drinking water, the resiliency to future contaminants, the quality of water provided and the reduction of chlorides being added to drinking water through home water softeners thus resulting in lower levels of chlorides being discharged to the Cannon River.

5. Did the City explore other treatment options, such as pressure filters, to remove iron and manganese?

Yes, however they were not recommended as options based on the scale of the drinking water system.

6. Will the water be softened?

Yes, the water will be softened to roughly 90 milligrams per liter (mg/L) or what is considered moderately hard.

7. Do I need to further soften my water?

The decision to further soften or not is up to residents; however, the City is recommending residents do not further soften their water.

8. Will the water hardness level cause issues with my high efficient appliances or void their warranties?

No, the Minnesota Department of Health states that “If your water’s hardness is greater than 7 grains per gallon or 120mg/L, then you might need a water softener to ensure your appliances run well.” The City will provide water with roughly 90 mg/L or lower than the Minnesota Department of Health’s recommended softening level.

9. When will the new water treatment plant be providing filtered and softened water to the Northfield properties?

The water treatment plant is expected to be operational in 2026.

10. When the water treatment plant becomes operational, will it cause water chemistry issues?

When the water treatment plant first becomes operational, there will be a change in the water. City staff will conduct additional hydrant flushing to remove any built up discoloration in the water so that residents will be able to see the benefit of the new treated water as soon as possible.